Creating a beauty parlor at home can be a fun and practical way to organize your beauty routine and make it easier to get ready. A beauty station typically includes everything you need to get ready in one convenient location; there are many things you can include in your beauty parlor: 

  • Mirror: A good mirror is essential for applying makeup and checking your appearance.
  • Lighting: Adequate lighting is necessary to see what you’re doing and ensure your makeup looks good in natural light.
  • Seating: A comfortable chair or stool is essential to sit and do your routine comfortably.
  • Storage: Storage containers, shelves, and drawers are essential for organizing and storing all your beauty products.
  • Tools: Common beauty tools include makeup brushes, sponges, and applicators.
  • Makeup: Makeup products include foundation, concealer, eyeshadow, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick, and more.
  • Skincare: Skincare products like cleansers, toners, moisturizers, and serums can be kept at the beauty station for easy access.

From haircare to nail care, there are many other beauty items you can include in your parlor. To give you a better idea on how to create your space, we reached out to experts in the beauty world for advice on how to build an amazing beauty parlor at home, read on to learn more.

 

What’s the best way to store my makeup?

The bottom line is air, water, and sometimes even light can affect makeup. To reduce exposure to these and maximize the lifespan of your makeup, there are three rules of thumb when it comes to best storing makeup. First, make sure the caps and lids are tight after using them. If you leave the cap off (or even loose) on a concealer or mascara, it can change the consistency of the product—sometimes even making it unusable. Gross.

Second, don’t (unless directed, like with soap brows, for example) add water to your makeup. Sometimes people will do this to thin out the consistency as a product ages, but this is a sure-fire way to add bacteria to your products—which could shorten their shelf life or cause an infection.  

Lastly, follow the use-by date on your products—and don’t cheat! Don’t store or keep products past their shelf life. If you don’t see a use-by date on a product, a general rule is to use any liquid products around your eye (mascara, liquid liner, liquid shadow) within three months. Everything else has a broader range, but the Mayo Clinic recommends cream-based foundation be replaced every 6 months, water-based foundation be replaced yearly, and oil-based foundation every 18 months.

Storing your makeup will be a breeze if you follow these steps. I recommend not leaving your makeup out on top of a vanity or dresser where it regularly gets exposed to light. Keep most of it in a drawer that you keep closed—but keep it tidy with drawer organizers that you can customize to fit your space. 

You’ll quickly find acrylic organizers, which are straightforward and chic. Still, I also love bamboo organizers for their sustainability angle. Glass organizers are also a great option—but with any of these, measure your drawers to ensure the best fit! 

-Lisa Fennessy at The New Knew

 

What products should everyone have in their skincare routine?

There are 3 core products that everyone should be using in their skincare routine regardless of their skin type.

The first is an SPF, which will help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Exposure to

UV rays can lead to fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and age spots. Using a good SPF each day helps to prevent this by blocking the UV rays that cause these problems. Adding an SPF to your morning routine allows you to maintain a more even and youthful-looking complexion and slow the onset of premature aging.

The second product is a cleanser. No matter your skin type, using a cleanser 1-2 times daily will help keep your pores clear of any sebum, makeup, and dirt and break down any oils that may lead to congestion. If you have oily skin, cleansing twice daily will help balance oil production. However, if you have dry skin, stick to once a day using a gentle cleanser, so you don’t strip your skin’s essential oils.

The third essential product you need in your skincare routine is a moisturizer. As the name

suggests, they add moisture to the skin and prevent dryness. Aside from that, they regulate oil production, protect against environmental damage, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve the skin’s overall texture. Using a moisturizer daily on your face, neck, and chest, whether you have dry, oily, or combination skin, can help keep your skin healthy, hydrated, and looking its best.

-Joey Hatem at My Haircare and Beauty

 

How can I reduce waste from my beauty routine?

It’s no secret that the beauty and cosmetics industry generates incalculable waste, primarily in plastic containers and another packaging. 

Consumers can have an impact – especially when more people follow suit. If one person reduces their waste by ten containers, the impact is minuscule – but imagine if 500 million people could do this?

Here are eight simple tips that will get you started. Not only will they help you reduce waste, but you’ll also save money, and you won’t have to stop using all the products you love. 

  1. Put a recycling bin in your beauty parlor. Unfortunately, the inconvenience of not wanting to take an extra trip around the house prompts many people just to trash something. 
  2. Use everything you have until the very last drop. Did you know that you often have 2-4 weeks of product left when you think you’re almost out?
  3. Switch to reusable beauty tools: bamboo toothbrushes, washable cloths and rounds, safety razors, and konjac exfoliating sponges are all examples.
  4. Consider refillable products. However, be sure to choose a brand that can demonstrate an actual reduction in waste. Many refill programs just give the illusion of waste reduction. 
  5. Try a DIY approach for simple products. Face oils are a good example; you can reuse old containers from other products. 
  6. Say no to minis and samples. The cost per ounce is drastically higher. Most minis are not recyclable. Most don’t get used. Find a “beauty buddy” and split the cost of full-sized products.
  7. Use solid products like shampoo bars. They are very effective, last longer, and generate zero plastic waste.
  8. Take the slow beauty approach. This means you will buy fewer items. You will make well-thought-out (not impulse) decisions. You will support indie brands that might cost a bit more upfront, but match your ethics and are of higher quality over the long run.

The key is to reduce consumerism and throwaway culture. Don’t go on a sustainability binge and change everything all at once. Use what you have. Replace things gradually. Your skin and the earth will thank you. 

-Heather at bareLUXE

 

How can I organize my hair products?

Organizing your hair products can help you save time and make your daily hair routine more efficient. Here are some tips on how to organize your hair products:

Sort through your products. Arrange your products strategically and in a way that makes sense to you. For example, you could arrange them in order of how you use them, or you could arrange them by category. You could have a category for styling products, a category for hair treatments, and a category for hair tools. 

Get rid of excess packaging materials and containers to keep clutter at bay. Reuse any reusable containers instead of buying new ones every time you purchase a product. This will help reduce waste and save money in the long run.

Get rid of any products that you don’t use or that have expired. This will help you make space for the products that you actually use.

Invest in clear acrylic organizers which will keep your products visible and organized while freeing up valuable shelf space. These organizers come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate all types of items such as brushes, combs, clippers, etc. 

Store your products in different containers that fit the size and type of products you have. This could be a drawer cart, plastic bins, or baskets. Make sure to label each container so you can quickly find what you are looking for without having to open multiple containers every time.

Keep it simple, try not to overwhelm yourself with too many products. Stick to the best products for your hair type and keep your routine simple and efficient.

-Allyson Carter at Hair Spies

 

What are the must-have hair products everyone should have?

The must-have products in your hair care arsenal will transform your hair and do the tough work to revive, refresh, or reverse your hair issues. Enter Number 4 High-Performance Hair Care, a range of professionally-inspired hair care products designed to deliver the Ultimate Hair Care Experience with vegan products free of sulfates, glutens, and parabens.

Let’s start with Number 4, Clarifying Shampoo. If your hair is feeling unruly, weighed down with residue from products you’ve used during the week, or tangled and difficult to comb through, chances are you need a clarifying shampoo.  A clarifying shampoo performs a deep clean on steroids like a regular shampoo. The result – light, fresh and vibrant locks, returned to their former lustrous glory. It’s like starting anew, providing your hair with an ever-so-gentle detox.

Next is the Number 4 Reconstructing Hair Masque, a botanical-based, profoundly nourishing hair treatment. It infuses hair with moisture and proteins featuring a rich blend of soy proteins, Vitamin B5, and natural conditioners to give you that prêt-a-porter glow! It is the perfect pick-me-up for damaged tresses and, after a 3-5 minute application, will leave hair feeling smooth and soft, like a fresh new hair care canvas to work with.

Is your hair feeling lackluster and dull? Finish it off with Number 4 Fluoro5 Elixer Restore & Repair Oil, a lightweight shine treatment serum that will give strands an illuminating time-defying shine. Seal, finish, repair, and restore any finished look while nourishing your hair with a White Freesia, Golden Amber, and Warm Musk scent. Fluoro5 Elixer is the ultimate multitasker. It not only seals, repairs, and restores hair, it goes that extra mile to help protect against UV rays and humidity.

-Janae Raphael at Number 4 Hair Care

 

What are the essentials to take care of my wavy hair?

If you’re looking to embrace your naturally wavy hair, I’d say the following are the essential products to have on hand. A gentle shampoo for regular use, a clarifying or chelating shampoo for monthly use removing build-up, a lightweight rinse-out conditioner, and a styler like gel or mousse. If your hair skews dry or rough, you may also need a lightweight leave-in conditioner and/or a deep conditioner. You’ll want a wide tooth comb or wet brush for detangling your hair in the shower. You’ll try to avoid brushing or combing your hair between washes. You’ll want a blow dryer and diffuser to dry your hair without disrupting your waves and something for protecting your hair overnight. I like sleeping in a satin-lined cap; others prefer a satin pillowcase or bonnet. If you wear your hair up, scrunchies are a gentler alternative to traditional hair ties, which can reduce breakage. Most people with wavy hair like to wash it just a couple of times per week, so you’ll want a showercap to keep your hair dry when showering on days you don’t wash it. 

The remaining essentials are learning and technique based! Hair varies more than you might think, so you’ll want to experiment with what works best for you. Taking my quiz on how to determine your wavy hair type can be a great place to start. While having a few essential products is important, learning to care for your naturally wavy hair is about learning styling techniques. I’d suggest checking googling for information related to damp styling vs. wet styling, scrunching out the crunch, how to plop wavy hair, how to microplop wavy hair, different product application techniques and any information related to specific goals or struggles you’re having. For example, tips for caring for fine wavy hair, or tips for reducing frizz in wavy hair. 

-Emily Evert at Wavy Hair Care

 

How often should I wash my hair extensions?

If you’re wondering how often you should wash your hair extensions, we recommend doing so at least once a week with professional-grade products. Since extensions are not attached to a live root, it’s essential to properly cleanse and condition them to keep them in optimal condition. However, what you use is as important as how often you wash them.

Most shampoos and conditioners on the market contain harsh surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate, which can strip the cuticle of natural oils and damage the hair over time. This can result in dry, dull, and frizzy extensions. Instead, we recommend using our sulfate, paraben, and salt-free Perfect Locks INSPIRE Hydrating Shampoo and Hydrating Conditioner for best results.

It’s essential to strike a balance when washing your extensions. Over-shampooing (more than 3-4 times a week) can lead to dryness, while under-shampooing (less than once a week) can cause build-up and tangling. To maintain healthy hair, apply a generous amount of leave-in conditioner each week and perform a deep conditioning treatment at least once a month.

Drying your extensions is just as important as washing them. Hair is most vulnerable to damage when wet, so it’s essential to use proper techniques when drying them. After thoroughly rinsing the hair, use a microfiber towel to pat it dry and remove excess water. Then, apply argan oil to the ends to keep the hair hydrated and shiny.

Your nighttime routine also plays a significant role in keeping your extensions healthy. Brush your hair each night using our unique Perfect Locks Hair Extension Loop Brush, starting from the bottom up. Avoid brushing your hair when wet, and always brush it in the morning before showering.

Investing in silk pillowcases is another way to protect your extensions from damage. The fine woven fibers won’t tug or catch on your hair like cotton pillowcases can. You can also use satin scarves or sleep caps or put your hair in a bun before bed to prevent tangling and damage.

-Gautama Swamy at Perfect Locks 

 

How can I safely store my hair extensions?

The first step in storing your hair extensions is to ensure they are clean and dry. It’s essential to wash your extensions before storing them to remove any product buildup or dirt that may have accumulated. After washing with a sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner, gently towel dry the extensions and allow them to air dry completely before storing them.

Once your extensions are clean and dry, it’s time to find a suitable storage solution. There are a few different options to choose from, depending on your preference and the amount of space you have available.

One popular storage option is to use a hanger. You can purchase a specially designed extension hanger or a regular clothes hanger. To use a clothes hanger, simply clip the extensions onto the hanger and hang it in your closet or another convenient location. This method is great because it keeps the extensions tangle-free and easily accessible.

Another storage option is to use a storage case or bag. These are specially designed to keep your extensions safe and organized. Look for a case or bag made from breathable cotton or mesh to ensure your extensions don’t become musty or moldy over time. Some storage cases even come with separate compartments to keep each weft of hair organized.

If you don’t have a lot of space for storing your extensions, you can also try a storage container. Look for a big container to hold your extensions without cramming them in too tightly. You can add a few silica gel packets to the container to help absorb moisture and keep the extensions dry.

When storing your extensions, it’s essential to keep them away from direct sunlight and heat. Exposure to heat and UV rays can cause your extensions to become brittle and dry, leading to breakage and damage over time.

In addition to proper storage, it’s also important to take good care of your extensions while wearing them. Be sure to brush them regularly to prevent tangles and knots, and use a heat protectant spray before using hot tools like flat irons or curling wands.

If you’re not planning on wearing your extensions for an extended time, it’s a good idea to store them in a cool, dry place. This will help prevent any damage or breakage if they’re left out in the open.

In summary, a few different ways to store your hair extensions include using a hanger, storage case or bag, or storage container. Whatever method you choose, keep your extensions clean and dry and away from direct sunlight and heat. With proper care and storage, your extensions can last for months or even years, making them an excellent investment for anyone looking to enhance their hair’s length and volume.

-Michelle at KmXtend Hair Extensions

 

What are the essential supplies I need in a nail station?

Of course, you need a space that you feel comfortable with and is easily cleaned because good hygiene is essential. And fresh air would be great. Good lighting is a must (natural light or a good lamp). 

As a natural nail brand, we don’t use glues, gels, acrylics, shellacs, or nail drills, we just use the essentials ’nail clippers, orange sticks, files, buffers, cuticle softener, and remover. We try to use the pritinyc soy nail polish remover, cotton, and paper towels. We have our utensils and great foot cream and moisturizer.

Nail treatments include primer, ridge filler strengthener, cuticle oils top and base coats, and nail polish.

I am also an aromatherapist, so I use essential oils mixed with sugar for scrubs and have some spray made up of tea tree essential oils and diluted water is always a good idea for me as tea tree is antibacterial. I spray it on my hands and feet before working on them. I also recommend using it if I see any sign of nail fungus. And in that case, we do not work on the client but recommend they see a dermatologist or podiatrist.

-Kim D’Amato at Priti NYC

 

How can I organize my nail supplies? 

One of the best ways to organize nail supplies is by product and order of use in a manicure, making it practical and efficient. Alternatively, if you are looking to store polishes or gels, organizing by color can be very beneficial in helping you (or your client) choose and compares shades/tones.

In terms of storage, you can purchase tiered draw sets, leveraging draw dividers to help keep products apart, safe, and easy to find. 

Numerous nail supply storage containers on the market will help showcase your supplies and can be used as a display feature. These are often available in different sizes and come with different features (depending on what you are looking for, if you need to take your nail supplies on the go, etc.). Some of the best options on the market will allow you to add/change, or alter the compartments.

Then there are more professional-looking storage containers, such as mounted wall racks. These are the kind you will find in nail salons, but there is no reason you could not install and use them at home if you have the space available and are keen to showcase polishes in this way.

-Jemma at Almond Nails

 

Pro Moving and Beauty Tips

How can I make my nail polish last longer?

Moving and packing can be a tedious task, and it can be even more difficult if you have long, delicate nails that you need to protect! Trying to carry boxes and boxes of items without ruining your nails can be a challenge. But don’t worry; there are some easy tips and tricks to help you keep your nails safe and beautiful when life happens. 

First, let’s start with the prep work needed for a long-lasting manicure. 

  1. Start with a clean surface. Make sure your nails are properly cleaned and free from any oil. This is especially important if you have oily nails. 
  2. Push back your cuticles for better application. Cuticles and other debris on the nails will prevent polish from adhering properly to your nail bed. We recommend a glass cuticle pusher for this task. 
  3. Apply a base coat. This will help protect your nails from staining and peeling. There are many different types of base coats available that can target your specific needs. 
  4. When applying the nail polish, apply it in thin layers and get as close to your cuticles as possible without touching your skin. If you put on a thick layer, it could start to peel off faster. Don’t forget to let each layer of polish dry for about 5-10 minutes before adding the next. If any polish gets on your skin, clean it with a brush dipped in polish remover. Don’t forget to cap the free edge of your nails.
  5. Use a quick dry top coat. This will help to seal in the color and make your manicure last longer. A top coat is key for a long-lasting manicure and protects your hard work from chipping.

Now that you have the perfect manicure, you need to care for it properly to prevent chipping. Here are some tips

  1. Make sure you’re always wearing gloves when packing and moving. Not only will this protect your nails from any damage, but it will also keep your hands clean and prevent cuts and burns. 
  2. If you’re packing fragile items, using a pair of soft cloth gloves instead of rubber gloves will help keep your nails safe. The softer material will make it easier to grip the items without damaging your nails.
  3. Keep your nails trimmed and filed. This will help avoid hard objects that could get caught in your nails and cause them to break or chip.
  4. If you’re handling heavy items, use a dolly or cart to help you move them. This will take the strain off your hands and nails, keeping them safe from damage.
  5. Lastly, moisturize your nails and hands by applying cuticle oils and hand cream. Moisturized and flexible nails are less likely to break!

Following these simple tips and tricks, you can keep your manicure for extended wear plus safe and beautiful while moving and packing. Good luck!

-Carol at Maniology

 

Overall, a beauty parlor is a personalized space that can include anything you need to get ready and feel your best. It can also include personal touches like decorative items, a plant, or a scented candle to make it feel more inviting and enjoyable to use. With these tips, now you know that designing and organizing your beauty parlor is easier than it seems. If you need help assembling your furniture or installing your mirror consider hiring a handyman to give you a hand.