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amika is a disruptor in the beauty industry, constantly shaking things up with their products. Their latest game changer? The pro smooth over frizz-fighting service. This salon service is designed to offer a frizz-fighting solution for all hair types, all while being formulated without formaldehyde. While other smoothing treatments alter clients’ natural hair patterns, this revolutionary service offers two sets of instructions to tailor results based on needs and desired results.
The magic behind the transformation? It’s all thanks to glyoxylic acid, an alternative to formaldehyde that works by restructuring the hair’s keratin from within. Think of it as giving each strand its own tiny raincoat – when heat is applied, it creates a hydrophobic barrier that keeps humidity in check, resulting in smoother, shinier hair that lasts 6-7 weeks based on an 8-week consumer study of 30 participants.
To find out more about the amika pro smoothing service from a pro herself, The Tease asked Crystal Harrell her thoughts. A color-loving hair stylist from Texas, Harrell turns everyday hair into something special. Her path to becoming a stylist has a pretty unique twist – it all started during her time in the military, where finding someone who really knew how to do her hair was like finding a needle in a haystack. That struggle lit a spark, and she decided she wanted to be that go-to stylist for others who felt the same way. Harrell not only transforms clients’ hair, she works to do it in the healthiest way possible. Plus, she’ll spill all her secrets about how to keep that salon-fresh look going strong at home. Read on for more.
The Tease: How were you first introduced to the amika products?
Crystal Harrell: I was first introduced to amika in 2020 when I began to shop at SalonCentric. I saw the product on the shelf and the bottle colors caught my eye. I researched them online and then began to try out the products on my own hair at home. I loved the way they made my hair feel so I started to use them in the salon and encouraged my clients to use them as well.
How have amika products changed your routine in the salon?
Harrell: I really appreciate the fact that amika is a vegan line which my clients love. I like that this line has products for all types of hair including color-treated hair. In the salon, I am able to style their hair with the line and explain to them which products I recommend for their hair.
What are the must-have amika products that you use on almost every client?
Harrell: The product that I use most in my salon first is the hydro rush system. It works so well with my natural clients and gives maximum moisture to the hair. Another product I use throughout the day is the amika blockade heat defense serum. This product protects the hair from heat for up to 450 degrees which goes well when I do my silk presses on my clients.
How did getting amika certified support you in the use of the pro smooth over service?
Harrell: Getting my certification really helped me learn the process and get comfortable with the treatment before I used it. The FAQs make sure you are prepared for any scenario and by being certified potential clients are able to find you because you are added to the salon locator system with amika.
What were your first impressions of the new amika pro smooth over products?
Harrell: When I first performed the pro smooth over service, I was really impressed with how the hair felt after the second rinse. I also liked that it is offered in a spray bottle so I was able to get through the hair quickly.
Do you remember your clients’ first impression of this service?
Harrell: When my client was able to see her hair she absolutely loved it, she just kept shaking her hair. My client was looking for a system that would make it easier to do her hair at home and this service delivered.
What kind of results should clients expect with using amika products and this pro smooth over service?
Harrell: When using amika products, it is recommended to use sulfate-free shampoo to ensure the longevity of the treatment. As long as I send them home with amika shampoo and conditioners, my clients can expect to have frizz-free hair for 6-7 weeks* after the pro smooth over service.
*based on an 8-week consumer study of 30 participants
How do you describe this service to other salon professionals who are interested in offering this in their salons?
Harrell: I have described this system as a smoothing treatment that is vegan, formulated without formaldehyde and without a harsh smell. It’s great for clients that are constantly having issues with frizzy hair. The system is a 2-step process that is easy to do and not complicated for your clients to maintain.
What tips do you give to clients who are maintaining these results at home in between salon visits?
Harrell: I would recommend that they not wet their hair for at least 48 hours. Knowing when washing their hair; to be sure to use a sulfate-free shampoo preferably from amika, and for the best results avoid chlorine and salt water.
Whether your clients are fighting frizz, seeking smoother styling sessions, or just dreaming of more manageable hair, the pro smooth over service is your new secret weapon. Head to loveamikapro.com for more information to get certified and start the smooth revolution! For more on Harrell, be sure to follow her on Instagram and TikTok.
Elisabeth Charney is an Innovative Strategy Intern at The Evoke Agency, where she brings her passion for beauty and marketing to the forefront. Currently a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she is studying Journalism with a focus in Strategic Communication and digital studies. Elisabeth is intrigued by the intersection of hair, beauty, and entertainment, and how they shape industry trends and conversations.