[Chelsae Anne | Photography]

SWEATER, HEELS (c/o) Vici Collection/JEANS: Levi’s – more styles here

In college, I landed a job as a receptionist at Anushka Spa, Salon & Cosmedical Centre in West Palm Beach. At the time, I needed a job with flexible hours to accommodate my hectic college schedule. My primary duties were to greet guests and escort them to the spa, keeping a close eye on everyone who walked through those doors to make sure they would have a fantastic experience. As a work perk, I received discounted hair and beauty treatments (which, for a college student was a huge expense). Occasionally, I would try something new. Like a conditioning treatment for my hair, nail art or a skin peel. Let’s just say, I had it pretty good and I loved working there.

Little did I know that the takeaways from that job would prove to be invaluable in shaping my blog today. And, help sharpen my communication skills (which came in handy after college in my public relations job). So much of what I learned at Anushka – how to take care of your skin, the difference between good and bad hair color, the importance of self-care – has helped me navigate the beauty industry. Which is why I’ve decided to do a three-part series highlighting some of my favorite treatments (and pro’s) at Anushka!

To start, I’m sharing one of the most commonly asked questions I get all the time – hair color. Why? Because the right shade of color can enhance a woman’s face and hair texture without overpowering her. We all know that when hair color is good, it’s rich and gorgeous. When hair color is bad, it’s an absolute train wreck. So…

That’s why I’ve put my head in the hands of one of the most trusted colorists in Palm Beach, James Parlier, for years. Since I started working at Anushka!

James uses a special French coloring technique called balayage. It’s a freehand technique where the color is applied by hand rather than using foils or a cap. Yes, he hand paints my highlights.

The appeal of balayage is that you can achieve so many different styles from it. From soft, natural sun-kissed highlights (what I have) to an ombre look to something strong and dramatic. The entire process varies on the length of your hair and the desired result.

It’s also super low maintenance. You don’t have to go to the salon every couple of weeks to touch up your highlights – because you don’t have a demarcation line like you do with foils. Color is hand painted on so when your hair grows it, it looks natural – not harsh. (Fun fact: Last winter, I went a couple months without getting my color done and readers still commented on how rich it looked!)

Wondering if it’s best for you?

It works for me because my highlights are applied to my natural hair. I’ve never completely dyed my hair; I’ve only done highlights. For those of you who have completely dyed your hair, the balayage technique can be achieved. Just speak with James (or a balayage specialist) to see if it suits your hair type and desired color!

I personally think you can see my color best when my hair is in loose, beachy curls. Anything flowy! Shout out to my hair stylist, Celeste, for my cut and blow drys!

As always, with color you should be using salon professional shampoos and conditioners as well as get regular conditioning treatments to preserve the color. No matter what! I think color looks best when your hair is in great condition.

First timer? Schedule a consultation with James. First timer to Anushka? Show the girls at the front desk (those wonderful receptionists) this card to get $25 off your next service of $75 or more! For online booking, use code: 25OFFNCBL…

Next month, I’m talking skin care! Stay tuned… and as always, thanks for stopping by!

Xo, Stephanie

P.S.: I’ll be at Anushka tomorrow from 4-8PM with Air Optix Colored Contact Lenses and celebrity makeup artist, Allan Avendaño. Stop by to chat about blogging, beauty and more! It’s free! Details below.