Can You Dye Human Hair Extensions?

ombre-hair-color-2013-4Human hair extensions can transform your look and allow you to change and try out new hairstyles. Virgin hair extensions are the longest lasting extensions, and can be worn for a year or longer. Some women who wear human hair weaves wonder whether it’s safe to dye their human hair extensions.
Yes, you can dye your human hair extensions!

You can do anything with human hair extensions that you can do to your natural hair. This includes dyeing, cutting, heat styling and chemically processing your human hair. Many weave wearers dye extensions to get an exact match to their natural hair color. Things to remember when dyeing your human hair extensions:

Do a strand test first. Even though you can dye your hair extensions, you should first test to see how they will handle the coloring process. Mix the dye as directed, then apply to one small strand or section of the hair. Take note of the end result before continuing to dye the rest of your hair.

Virgin hair extensions are the best type of weaves for dyeing. Because virgin hair extensions have not been chemically processed in any way, they can be dyed with minimal damage to the hair. While it’s best to avoid overly harsh chemicals, virgin hair extensions can be lightened or darkened as natural hair. Experts advise that you don’t attempt to dye non-virgin hair weaves. These hair extensions have been chemically treated, stripping the strand to its weakest. They are generally not strong enough to be dyed.

It may take multiple applications to lighten your hair extensions. To dye black extensions to blonde or light brown color, you must first strip the hair of its natural color. Then you must bleach the hair to the desired shade. This may take more than one try to get to the right color. As usual, do a strand test first to avoid ending up with a head full of orange locks.

Just as strong chemicals can strip and damage your natural hair, harsh chemicals can also damage your human hair extensions beyond repair. Empress Virgin human hair weaves have the cuticle layer intact. This outer layer of the strand gives the hair its natural shine and body. By using chemical dyes that are too strong for the hair you can strip the cuticle, making your extensions weak, dull and brittle.

Can the staff at Empress Luxury Hair dye my virgin hair extensions for me? SURE! Empress Luxury Virgin hair extensions can be dyed in a wide variety of colors with our Color Me Services. With a little help from our staff, you can go from dull to vibrant in an instant without worrying about dyeing the hair at home. Email us at empresshairco@gmail.com today!

Hot Hair Alert: Blac Chyna

Kim Kardashian and Blac Chyna get their eyebrows touched up

Spotted this weekend was unlikely pair, Kim K and Blac Chyna. In casual attire the two ladies accompanied one another for some eyebrow grooming. The two hip hop girlfriends  seem to be building a close friendship. Kim Kardashian was also seen grabbing lunch with then blonde, Blac Chyna last week.

However, the real story here is Blac Chyna’s fire engine red hair. We love the bold pop of color. Is it a yay or nay for you?

Send us your favorite celebrity hair look and we will match the look for you. Email empresshairco@gmail.com today.

Blac Chyna and KimKardashian at  Topanga Canyon Mall, near Kimye's Calabasas mansion.

Blac Chyna and Kim Kardashian at Topanga Canyon Mall, near Kimye’s Calabasas mansion.

How to Define Curls in Your Virgin Curly Hair Extensions

Curly Virgin Extensions Empress Luxury Hair

Our virgin hair extensions can be worn as is or heat straightened for a different look. When you’re ready to get back to your curls just wash the hair and define the curls. Why should you define the curls after you wash the hair? Because virgin hair is completely unprocessed human hair, it behaves much in the same way your naturally curly hair does.  Getting back to virgin curly hair – any naturally curly-haired empress will tell you that their natural curls require some type of product for definition, hydration, and frizz prevention.

So here are five tips for how to define the curls in your virgin curly hair extensions:

  •  Avoid product buildup.  Keep your extensions clean by shampooing regularly with a sulfate free formula.  Product buildup will weigh down your extensions preventing the curls from forming freely.
  • Hydrate! Spraying the extensions with water will moisturize the hair and reactivate the curl pattern.  The best thing about water is it is free and will not cause any build up on the hair.
  • Avoid rubbing.  When you’ve wet the hair either from spritzing to help the curls to pop or after washing, try not to rub the hair to remove excess water with a towel or other material. Instead gently twist the hair and squeeze the excess water from the extensions.  Rubbing will cause frizziness and may even cause the hair to tangle.
  • Use a cream based product.  Creams usually require less product to be added to the hair than sprays and are able to be more evenly distributed.  You may choose to use a dollop of your favorite conditioner or a curl enhancing cream.  Either way, start with as little product as possible and distribute using a wide tooth comb.  Add a bit more product if necessary, but remember less is more!
  • Sleep on Satin.  Cotton causes friction on your virgin curly hair extensions and roughens the cuticle, robbing them of moisture and causing frizz.  Sleeping on satin will help your curls remain intact much better throughout the night therefore taking less effort (and little to no additional product) the next day to style.

SHOP OUR CURLY VIRGIN HAIR EXTENSIONS: Spanish Town Curl (Deep Wave) – http://www.empressluxuryhair.com/product/deep-wave

HAIR TREND: The Bob Life

Mid-length hair is the trend of the moment. Almost every face shape & body type looks good with the bob cut. The most popular version of the bob cut, is the swing bob hairstyle. Some also call it the asymmetrical bob or graduated bob. The swing bob hairstyle has a lot of volume and swagger, while giving you the versatility and flirty vibe you desire. Add some layers and waves for texture or a side-swept bang to play up your femininity. Like any hairstyle, remember to keep those locks moisturized, super-glossy and perfectly trimmed with regular visits at your fave salon. These fab examples will give you the best ideas on nailing down this season’s popular hair trend.

(All images belong to their respective owners.)

Taraji-Henson-Bob

Beyonce-BobBrandy-London-Bob

Brandy-Norwood-visits-London

 

Interview w/ the CEO Mekalya Silvera

Empress Luxury Hair CEO

Mekalya Silvera founded Empress Hair Company with a vision that she’s had since she was a child. She drew a picture of a female lion sitting on a throne when she was a little girl and that same piece of paper is what she used to develop her brand.  Empress Luxury Hair carries a wide assortment of hair with product names inspired by her island ancestry like “Spanish Town Curl” and “Chiney Gyal Straight.” Get to know our CEO a little better with an exclusive interview below.

  • How did you decide on the name Empress Luxury Hair? What is your inspiration behind the name?
    Well I am of Jamaican decent.  A lot of Jamaicans use [Empress] as a term of endearment. I always liked how it sounds… Plus it deals with royalty so it just seemed fitting. I want all my customers to feel like Empresses and Queens when they are wearing my products.
  • Along with retailing virgin hair, you’re also an independent hairstylist. What’s your favorite part of your job?
    I love the expression on my client’s faces when I’m done styling their hair. It’s like they feel like a brand new person. Words can’t express the satisfaction I get from that.
  • What career advice would you give to other motivated women like yourself?
    Do not stop! The road may seem rough at times but it’s worth it in the long run.  My favorite quote is “Prayerize visualize and actualize.” Basically, if you believe it you can achieve it.
  • What’s your favorite Empress Luxury Hair product?
    That’s easy: everything! I love my whole collection.
  • What are the benefits of purchasing bundles of virgin hair versus a pack of hair in the beauty supply store?
    Bundle hair is an investment. You can purchase this hair and keep reusing it. If you take care of it you can keep reusing it for 12+ months! Compare that to buying Beauty supply store hair 150.00+ purchase every time you get tired of your current style (not including install fee).
  • What are some new & exciting things happening at Empress Luxury Hair?
    We have the new Russian Roulette Line!! I am so excited because this hair is amazing! It colors great just like the Brazilian Beach Wave and Spanish Town Curl, plus it holds curls for a long time and blends well with ALL hair types!
  • Aside from ordering your products online, are there any options to purchase Empress Luxury Hair in person?
    We are located in Miami-Dade and Broward County, Florida so if you’re in the  area we can schedule a pick up!
  • And just for fun… What are a few of your favorite pastimes/hobbies?
    I really love the beach, so when I get time I get out there and meditate, pray, or just hang out with my team. My new hobby is wig making. I’m really enjoying that. I also like to read. Family is first though. I love my family.. There is nothing that beats the time we have when we get together.

Behind The Scenes – HOT!! Empress Luxury Hair PHOTOSHOOT!

HOT!! SEXY!!

Behind The Scenes for Empress Luxury Hair’s new photoshoot…
Empress Luxury Hair
http://www.empressluxuryhair.com
100% VIRGIN HAIR
Weave Extensions, Virgin Hair, Brazilian Hair, Malaysian Hair, Russian Hair, Human Hair, Closure, Beach Wave, Straight, Deep Wave

HAIR CARE: Healthy Foods & Tips For Your Hair

healthy_black_hair
On the road to longer, healthier hair you’ll find yourself trying all types of products that seem to fail to deliver. Whether you’re on a natural hair journey or a relaxed hair journey… or even transitioning between the two, it’s not just about the products you put in your hair, but what you put in your body as well. Here are some healthy foods and tips to help your hair during your journey.
HEALTHY FOODS
  • Salmon – besides being rich in protein and vitamin D (both are key to strong hair) the omega-3 fatty acids found in this fish are the true superstar. Your body can’t make those fatty acids, which your body needs to grow hair. About 3% of the hair shaft is a make up of  these fatty acids. Omega-3s are also found in the cell membranes in the skin of your scalp, and in the natural oils that keep your scalp and hair hydrated.
  • Eggs – a great source of protein, eggs are loaded with four key minerals: zinc, selenium, sulfur, and iron. Iron is especially important, because it helps cells carry oxygen to the hair follicles, and too little iron (anemia) is a major cause of hair loss, particularly in women.
  • Spinach – the iron, beta carotene, foliate, and vitamin C in spinach help keep hair follicles healthy and scalp oils circulating.
  • Blueberries – exotic super fruits may come and go but when it comes to vitamin C. Vitamin C is critical for circulation to the scalp and supports the tiny blood vessels that feed the follicles. Too little vitamin C in your diet can lead to hair breakage.
Along with healthy eating, many people include daily vitamins to their hair growing regimen. Vitamins and pills rich in Biotin have been rumored to work wonders, but you should always consult with a physician to go over the side effects before taking any non-prescribed medications.
HAIR LOSS TIPS
  • Hot oil treatments – take any natural oil, olive, coconut, canola – and heat it up so that it is warm, but not too hot. Massage it gently into your scalp. Put on a shower cap and leave it on for an hour, then shampoo your hair.
  • Natural juices – you can rub your scalp with either garlic juice, onion juice or ginger juice. Leave it on overnight and wash it thoroughly in the morning.
  • Get a head massage – massaging your scalp for a few minutes daily will help stimulate circulation. Good circulation in the scalp keeps hair follicles active. Circulation may be improved through massage by using a few drops of lavender or bay essential oil in almond or sesame oil base.
  • Practice meditation – believe it or not, most of the times, the root cause for hair loss is stress and tension. Meditation can help in reducing that and restore hormonal balance.
The  key to seeing improvement in ANYTHING is consistency. Don’t be a product junkie and buy new things every week because you don’t see immediate results. Hope these tips help! Here’s to healthier hair.

2013 Homecoming Hair Trends + Hairstyles for Teens

Now that the first day of school is over [insert relieved face here], it’s time to start preparing for another date. Aside from prom, the homecoming dance is one of the most talked about and fabulous school functions there is! No matter which dress and jewelry you will be rocking, we are here to help you find your perfect style for the big dance! For a special event like homecoming you would obviously want to get the look just right. Step away from the everyday ponytail/messy bun look and embrace new looks to dramatically transform your appearance. We have you covered with tons of new and creative hair ideas you’ll have to try.

Just like the latest hair trends for adults, teen styles are also all about bold color and exotic new ways to feature color throughout your hair. From dipped dyed ends, to rainbow bright mixtures, and since you’re young you can pretty much infuse any form of color into your locks for a fun new style. If a bold new color is too much for your personal taste, or if you want to try a new overall hairstyle to match your new color, key hairstyles this year include an array of braids, curls, and flirty wavy styles. Look below to see major hair trends that would be sure to make your look as memorable as your Homecoming dance.

ImageImage

ImageImageImage

Image

And remember, be safe, have fun, and make Homecoming a night to remember!

www.empressluxuryhair.com

Instagram Contest

Instagram Contest

We’re looking for your BEST HAIRDAY EVER photos. Like us on Instagram and Tag your photos with #empresshair for your chance to win. A winner will be selected at random on Monday, 09/30/13

www.empressluxuryhair.com