the beauty blog :: andre chreky :: the salon spa

What’s New, Newlywed?

If you’re newly engaged, chances are you’ve started imagining how you want to look when you walk down the aisle. Even if you’re going for a very traditional presentation, a contemporary touch or two with your hair and makeup can create a bridal style that’s uniquely yours. Our Bridal Department can help you achieve these radiant looks, or work with you to create the visage of your dreams.

No-Care Hair
When it comes to bridal influencers no one in recent memory has had the impact of Meghan Markle. Following last May’s royal wedding, the Duchess of Sussex’s intentionally messy bun has been one of the most sought-after bridal hairstyles. Other care-free looks include windswept locks, loose waves, and face-framing tendrils.

Center Parts
If you want to give your everyday look a little something extra for your wedding day, play with your part. The classic center part was very popular on the Bridal Fashion Week runways. The style can be worn sleekly pulled back or softened with more volume. A pretty way to look like “you,” without taking drastic measures.

Bride with a Bang
Guess what: Bangs are back! Face-framing fringe was a huge trend during Bridal Fashion Week. Whether you opt for short and blunt, long and wispy, or tousled and boho, bangs are certain to be one of the season’s hottest trends. 

Lit-From-Within Skin
Goodbye matte makeup, all hail luminous complexions! Go for a gorgeous, allover glow by exchanging your pressed powder for a foundation with a dewy finish.

Blushing Brides
In 2019, brides are getting cheeky! Whether washes of dusty rose or a more vivid pink, well-applied blush brings out the bloom on all brides.

Eye-Catching Eyebrows
Bold brows are a trend that’s still on point. Whether strikingly thick or expertly angled, beautiful brows frame your face in such a flattering manner.

Polish Your Tiara
Meghan Markle has also changed the face of hair accessories. This season brides will be reaching for bandeaus and glittering headbands, reminiscent of the Queen Mary diamond bandeau tiara worn by the Duchess for the royal wedding. Thinner, unembellished headbands are also popular this year, creating a cool, minimalist vibe that is totally modern.

The Bold and the Beautiful
Remember the dainty sprigs of baby's breath adorning many a bride’s up-do? Consider the style wilted. This season, bold, statement-making hair accessories abound. Towering headpieces, swooping hats, and oversized blooms make 2019 the year to “go big or go home.”

Mazi Amazes

Among the many things our clients love about Andre Chreky are the many great restaurants in walking distance. Within a one-block radius of the salon you’ll find McCormick & Schmick’s, BLT Steakhouse, Mirabelle, PJ Clarke’s, Equinox, The Oval Room, Bombay Club and the newest addition to the neighborhood, Mazi.

Located next to the St. Regis Hotel at 1518 K Street, NW, Mazi offers new American cuisine melded with Mediterranean flavors, primarily Greek. Since its opening in December, the reviews on Open Table and Yelp have been wonderful. Diners have given shout-outs to the outstanding service, the lovely ambience, the delicious Greek menu, the large portions, and yes: the price point!

The next time you leave our salon eager to show off your new ‘do, meet a friend (or beau) for a meal at Mazi. I think you’ll be impressed!

Come Clean

With Washington’s famous heat and humidity just around the corner, it’s time to up your cleansing routine. Perspiration, sunscreen, and outdoor pollutants that accompany your walk (or lunch at a sidewalk café) clog skin, leaving your complexion dull at best…or worse, erupting in protest.

To combat summer’s onslaught, Guinot has launched the effective Clean Logic line of cleansing products. The collection is formulated with anti-aging properties suited for fragile skin. In addition to doing a thorough job of cleaning, the Clean Logic products help restore and provide lipids for improved elasticity. They also renew the skin's moisture barrier. Use them morning and evening to look your fresh-faced best.

Guinot’s Clean Logic Cleansing Cream
The Clean Logic Cleansing Cream gently and thoroughly cleanses and removes makeup with a creamy texture that moisturizes the skin. Guinot’s unique formula includes Logevitine, shea oil, and Hydrocyte complex with hyaluronic acid to rejuvenate, moisturize and strengthen the skin’s lipid barrier.

Guinot’s Clean Logic Toning Lotion
After your cleansing cream, apply Clean Logic Toning Lotion. It reinvigorates your face through gentle exfoliating, preparing the skin for any products to follow. Papaya, jojoba oil and healthy trace elements blend to eliminate dead skin build-up.

You’ll find both of these products in the Andre Chreky retail department for $55 each.

Spring has Sprung!

April showers bring a deluge of deals at Andre Chreky. Step out of the rain and into our spa, where you’ll soak up savings on popular beauty services. Each day of the week brings a different opportunity to shine: try them all, Sunshine!

Daily April Specials

Mondays
$15 Regular Manicure                    

Tuesdays
$30 Gel Manicure

Wednesdays
$15 Brow Threading/Waxing

Thursdays
$60 Hydra Peeling Facial

Fridays
$75 Age Summum Facial

Weekends
$30 Bikini Wax (any)

 

And Don’t Forget…

April 3 – What’s more fun than an Easter egg hunt? Filling your basket with goodies from our retail department! Stock up today and save 20% on your purchases. Hop to it!

April 24 – Mother’s Day is just around the corner. Treat her to an hour, a morning, or a day of beauty with an Andre Chreky Gift Card. Buy yours today and save 10%. (Get one for every momma in your life!)

 

Singing in the Rain
Free Umbrella with any Moroccanoil purchase

April showers? Bring them on! Buy any Moroccanoil product from our retail department and receive a perky turquoise umbrella (value: $25) with our compliments. Blue skies will follow wherever you go…Offer good through April 30, while supplies last. One per customer, please.

Just in Time for Cherry Blossoms

Wait until you see the lineup of colors in OPI’s new Tokyo Collection: absolutely stunning!

Tokyo is known as an exceptionally vibrant, trendsetting city. Inspired by the city’s blend of rich traditions, fashion-forward style, and ultra-modern cityscapes, this palette’s 12 colors evoke the energy and creativity of Tokyo.

Available in classic Nail Lacquer, Long-Wear Infinite Shine, and GelColor formulas the Tokyo collection includes modern takes on pink with dusty rose, lavender, and lilac undertones (Rice Rice Baby, Another Ramen-tic Evening, Arigato from Tokyo, Hurry-juku Get this Color!). There are rich hues inspired by nature from matcha green tea to blooming gardens (How Does Your Zen Garden Grow?, I’m On a Sushi Roll, Suzi- san Climbs Fuji-san, Tempura-ture is Rising!) Vibrant purple and blue colors – some with shimmer -- evoke the city’s electric energy and nightlife (All Your Dreams in Vending Machines, Samurai Breaks a Nail, Kanpai OPI!, Chopstix and Stones) round out the collection.

To pay homage to Tokyo’s nail art innovation six limited edition shades will also be part of the Tokyo Collection. These collectible colors feature varied glitter finishes, including matte foil glitters in pink (Just Karate Kidding You), silver (Robots Are Forever) and gold (Left My Yens in Ginza) as well as an iridescent two-tone glitter in pink and silver (Judo’nt Say?) a chunky glitter in silver (R U Happy 2 C Me? LOL!) and a cherry blossom-inspired pink with gold (This Shade is Blossom).

I can’t wait to sport Kanpai OPI with my new spring sweater. Which Tokyo Collection color is calling to you?

The Future is Now. And it’s Beautiful.

I’m not the only one who feels that the world is changing at breakneck speed. My colleagues in the beauty industry comment about it constantly. Environmental stewardship, holistic health, and technological advances are just a few of the trending interests that are influencing the way our clients approach in-salon and at-home treatments. Here are a few of the important advances that will be rocking my world in 2019.

Clean Beauty
Sustainability is probably my number one concern these days. I’m delighted that the beauty industry has taken up this cause. I’ve noticed a significant shift toward “clean” beauty,” as companies start to formulate, produce, and package products that are more environmentally friendly. I love it when a company introduces sustainable packaging, replacing plastic with glass, using recycled materials, and offering “refill” incentives for their customers.

New Classic Scents
I have always been an advocate of having one signature scent, even when the trend moved towards owning a “fragrance wardrobe.” I’m gratified that classic scents are making a return. Last year, Chanel launched a limited-edition version of their iconic No. 5 perfume. Dior introduced a soon-to-be classic, Joy, which is a sophisticated take on sandalwood and musk.

Super Supplements
Beauty comes from the inside out, and the current interest in popping healthy supplements is a beautiful thing. GI health has such a huge impact on skin, hair, and overall stamina that the gut has been dubbed the “second brain.” Superpower probiotics are surging in popularity and supplements in general are increasingly targeted to best fit your needs. Whether it’s increased energy, reduced inflammation, improved sleep, or boosting your overall glow, look for a blend of natural ingredients that can supplement your beauty regime with impressive results.

Golden Glow
This may seem over-the-top, but some of our clients have mastered this new makeup trend with gorgeous results: a swipe of yellow-gold highlighter across the cheekbones. Experiment with Rihanna’s Fenty line of makeup: the Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter in Trophy Wife creates depth and dimensions with a wash of gilded yellow. Contouring made modern – and easy!

Gadgets and Gizmos Galore
Beauty technology is developing so rapidly, it can be hard to keep pace. I’m fascinated by the emerging ability to use handheld aids, such as phone apps, to improve my skincare. I’ll be checking out Foreo, a light- and heat-emitting handheld device that tracks and responds to internal and external factors affecting the skin. Foreo uses LED technology along with hot and cold sonic waves to stimulate skin cells and boost the penetrative properties of face masks. Coupled with the device the Foreo app provides tips on how to get optimal, visible results. Another item on my radar: the SpectraLite FaceWare Pro, an FDA-approved face mask charged with blue and red LED lights that targets wrinkles, improves acne, and enhances skin appearance. I’ve heard that after just two weeks of daily three-minute sessions, the effects are noticable. I’m also intrigued by the Dyson AirWrap, an instant styling wand that uses air rather than heat to create waves as well as sleek styles.

Low-Care Hair
Every now and then, your hair needs a break from the blow dryer and other hot tools. Luckily, chic ponytails that require minimal maintenance are becoming more popular; they were noted in many of the recent runway shows. While Alberta Ferretti models wore ponytails with a carefully tied rope-like finish – somewhat tricky to achieve at home – others went full-out DIY. Ann Demeulemeester showed effortlessly styled low-slung braids and models for Victoria Beckham sported barely-tied half-ponytails. For those days when you can’t make it to the salon…or when your flatiron feels flat out “too fussy…” try one of these easy, chic alternatives.

Summum Truly Special

Raise your hand if you’re excited that spring is just around the corner. Now, raise your other hand if your face, neck, and chest look and feel as if they’re still trapped in the midwinter doldrums. If cold weather, indoor heat, itchy turtlenecks, and wooly scarves have taken their toll, take heart. Our estheticians have exactly what your skin is craving these days: the new Lift Summum Treatment from our favorite skincare line, Guinot.

Designed to firm and smooth the delicate skin of the face, neck, and chest (often the first areas to show signs of neglect), Lift Summum Treatment offers instant, long-lasting results. It’s fast-acting, removing dead skin cells, redefining facial contours, and restoring radiance in just 50 minutes.

The four-step process, enjoyed in our spa, is so relaxing. First, we apply papaya extract to slough away dead skin cells and facilitate gentle exfoliation. The second step is a massage with mahogany bark extract (to improve elasticity) and seaweed extract to lessen the appearance of wrinkles. Hyaluronic acid spherical fillers are then gently worked into the skin to rehydrate and fill any non-groovy grooves caused by wrinkles. Finally, a truly remarkable lifting mask smooths facial features and combats skin slackening. Bliss!

Guinot’s 50-minute Lift Summum Treatment typically costs $130 (so worth it!). But here’s a tip: every Friday in March we will be offering the treatment for just $65. Book soon!

 

Photo credit: elegantladybeauty.ie

March into Spring, Beautifully

There’s no need to shuffle into spring with winter-weary hair and skin. Stride into warmer weather looking your absolute best with Andre Chreky’s lineup of season-changing specials. Each day of the week, all month long, we’ll be offering the beauty reboots you need at prices that will warm your heart!

March Mondays
$55 Haircuts

Tulip Tuesdays
$60 Single Process Color

Windy Wednesdays
$35 Regular Blowdrys

Thaw-out Thursdays
$35 Cellophane Treatments

Flowering Fridays
$65 Lift Summum Facials

Warmer Weekends
$300 Keratin Treatments

 

And Don’t Forget

Wednesday, March 6 – The early bird gets the worm, so stop by first thing today for the best selection of merchandise! Save 20% on all retail products today. Hop to it, Robin!

Wednesday, March 27 – When it comes to gift-giving, don’t be an April Fool! Stock up today on Andre Chreky Gift Cards at 10% savings. You’ll never be surprised when the need for a present arises.

 

You Can Kenra for $7

This month, buy any Kenra haircare product and get a second Kenra product for just $7. Whether you’re a tried-and-true Kenra fan or new to this great haircare line, now’s the time to stock up and save! Offer good through March 31.

Wander Lust

Candy melts. Roses drop their petals. But the sweet moments sparked by a romantic getaway with your valentine can will last a lifetime. Put real-world distractions on hold for a few days and whisk your beloved away to one of these escapes. All are in driving distance of DC. (Sure, it may be a little late to book for February 14, but hey, it’s wonderful to have an early spring getaway to look forward to…)

The Homestead Resort
This Allegheny Mountain resort, located in Hot Springs, Virginia, is renowned as one of the world’s foremost luxury golf and spa resorts. Dating from 1766, the Homestead abounds with charm. In addition to its championship golf course the 2,000-acre setting boasts a downhill ski area, an equestrian center, a top-rated shooting club, archery, canoeing, falconry, and Segway tours. Ready for some pampering? The spa offers every service you can imagine while an array of gourmet restaurants cook up spectacular meals served with genuine Southern hospitality.

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
Located in Pennsylvania’s beautiful Laurel Highlands Mountains, just a few hours'​ drive from Washington, Nemacolin has something for everyone. Enjoy the spectacular art collection displayed throughout the French-style chateau, then indulge in the award-winning spa or a world-class dining experience. Nemacolin offers championship golf, bike rentals, a safari-style animal park, and an Adventure Center with paintball, a rock-climbing wall, ropes course, and a zip line. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater home is a nearby attraction.

Salamander Hotels & Resorts
If you love horses and wine, head to Salamander in Middleburg, Virginia. The romantic 340-acre resort in the Blue Ridge Mountains, just an hour from DC, is the perfect jumping off point for enjoying some of the region’s best wineries.

The Inn at Little Washington
Book a year in advance for this one! The restaurant at the Inn at Little Washington is recognized as one the world’s finest. The inn is nestled in in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, with spectacular views, wineries, antique shops, and wide range of outdoor activities close at hand.

The Greenbrier
Have you ever spent the night at a National Historic Landmark? You can when you visit The Greenbrier, in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia: The Greenbrier has been operating since 1778. Enjoy more than 50 recreational activities on 11,000 acres including skiing, ice-skating, three championship golf courses, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a spa that is utterly indulgent.

The Tides Inn
If water floats your boat, head to The Tides Inn, situated on a private peninsula overlooking Carters Creek in Irvington, Virginia. Enjoy stunning views of the Chesapeake Bay and activities such as boat cruises, sailing lessons, stand-up paddle boarding, golf, tennis, croquet, and a full-service spa. Don’t miss the farm-to-table restaurant, where you can sample the very freshest oysters from the Rappahannock River.

The Inn at Perry Cabin
Once you settle into the Inn at Perry Cabin, you’ll find it hard to leave! This 78-room manor house, with its beautiful furnishings and welcoming atmosphere, is spectacularly located on the shores of the Chesapeake. Bask in the inn’s luxury, but be sure to leave plenty of time to mosey around the town of St. Michaels, Maryland, with its eclectic boutiques and maritime museum. If the mood strikes, the inn can help you arrange golf, fishing, sailing, horse-drawn carriage rides, and historic walking tours.

The French Face

Like it or not, Nora Ephron was right: “Our faces are lies, but our neck is the truth.” The neck and décolleté, with their thinner skin, tend to age more quickly – and less well – than other parts of our bodies. Unfortunately, the décolleté tends to be overexposed and under-protected when it comes to sun damage. Too many Americans focus our skin care regimen on our face, neglecting to spread TLC down to the neck and décolleté, a secret that French women have known for decades.

From a very young age, French girls are taught that proper skin care involves gentle cleansing both morning and night. They also learn to thoroughly apply their treatment products to their necks and chests. The term “the French Face” has been used by estheticians to describe the neck and chest region…after all, décolleté is a French adjective for a low-neck garment!

Our favorite skincare company Guinot has formulated a luxurious anti-aging product specifically designed for the French Face: Longue Vie Cou. The treatment contains 56 active ingredients that supply the elements required for healthy regeneration of delicate skin. This age-defying, youth-replenishing cream firms, tightens, and evens out the skin tone on the neck and chest. Use daily in the morning and evening. You’ll find Longue Vie Cou in the retail section at Andre Chreky Salon.