BeautyBrave

We’ve talked about what happens to your hair in your 40s, but the truth of the matter is, your hair is changing differently with each passing decade. Today, we’re getting into the 50 and fabulous years of your life and telling you what you can expect as your hair ages during this era of life. We’re breaking down the three main ways you can expect your hair to change and the best ways to work with those changes and continue feeling like your BeautyBrave self! Why Do You Lose Hair as You Age? Before getting into the changes you’ll experience with the hair on your head in your 50s, we feel it’s important to note that hair loss is common with aging. This can be due to everything from DNA to thyroid issues (all of which should be handled by a medical professional). However, by the time we reach our 50s, our hair is spending less time in the growth phase and more time in the resting phase, meaning it not only grows a little more slowly, but also may not be able to grow as long as it could in years past. As you age, the hair follicles that were once thick will become thinner, lighter, and finer. Additionally, every time one of your hair follicles repeats the growth cycle, the hair that grows in may be a little weaker. This causes your hair to be more prone to breakage, preventing you from growing past a certain length. What Hair Changes Should You Expect as You Age? PIGMENT As you age, your hair color is going to change. While you can expect your hair to go grey, your natural color may also continue to appear in a more faded manner. Your hair follicles produce melanin, which gives your hair its natural pigment. As this process starts to slow down, there is less and less melanin being produced, causing your hair to become lighter, leading to graying and lightening that usually stats at your temples and slowly extends to your crown. Ways To Work With The Change: Color your hair (have your hair professionally colored and maintain it with root touch-up) Embrace your grey or new color. Use shampoos and conditioning products free of parabens and sulfates so your hair isn’t further stripped of its natural oils. THICKNESS The thickness of your hair is also subject to change in your 50s. It’s incredibly common for your hair to start thinning as you age. This has to do with the changing hair growth cycles, but also with your body’s natural oil production. As with anything else, our bodies product less of these natural oils as we age. The decline in natural production results in hair that is less thick and strong. Ways To Work With The Change: Don’t overbrush your hair and cause more hair loss. Go for a shorter style or layering that can give hair a fuller look. Use styling products that plump up strand and make hair appear thicker. TEXTURE You can also expect the texture of your hair to change in your 50s. Hair will often lose some of its smooth and shine, become a little more brittle, and can even appear wiry. This is because your hair follicles often shrink with time, which affects the structure of your hair shaft. This can make it more difficult for hairstyles to last, can make curly hair fall flat, and even cause formerly straight hair to develop a little curl. Ways To Work With The Change: Use hair serums or a hydrating hair mask to keep your hair hydrated. Embrace your new texture and style to your strengths (texturize your curls, smooth your straight). Play around with styles that suit your new look (pixie cut, bob, layers, etc.)

Have you heard? Heatless hairstyling is hot, hot, hot (pun intended)! Our newest rollers are here and they’re the ultimate solution for achieving lift and curl without exposing your hair to heat. Plus, they’re perfect for achieving fast, hands-free volume. Keep reading to learn more about our Soft-Grip Volumizing Rollers and our favorite styling tips. The Basics Our soft-grip rollers come in 2 set sizes, each set featuring 18 rollers in 2 sizes. This allows for a variety of styling options ranging from loose texture and volume to more defined bounce and curl. SHORT SET: PIXIE 1” + SHORT 1.5” / 18 ROLLERS LONG SET: MEDIUM 1.75” + LONG 2.25” / 18 ROLLERS These rollers are made with Soft-Grip Technology, which gently keeps rollers in place with small loops that softly adhere to hair and prevent unnecessary pulling or damage. Our rollers also come with Easy-Secure Clips that allow you to place them perfectly and firmly secure them in hard-to-reach places or where hair may be heavier. How To Roll To use the rollers, we recommend separating hair into sections no larger than the size of the roller you’re using. For styling purposes, use a smaller size roller for tight volume and a larger size for loose volume. Place chosen roller at the end of the hair section and roll entire section inward, stopping when hair is rolled onto the base of your scalp. Secure your roller with clip provided and allow to set for 10-20 minutes. The longer you leave the roller in, the better staying power your curls or volume will have. Remove the rollers by removing the clips and gently letting hair unravel. Why Go Heatless? To put it simply, heatless hairstyling is the only way to absolutely ensure that you are not inflicting any form of heat damage on your hair. While Calista creates hot tools that use Fusion Technology to prevent this, it can’t be argued that styling hair without heat drastically reduces hair damage. Additionally, heatless hairstyling can reduce hair loss, prevent spilt ends and breakage, and preserve your hair’s natural shine. Despite all of these amazing benefits, what our customers love the most is the convenience of our Soft-Grip Rollers. Not only can you save hours by putting in your rollers and going about your tasks, the rollers are also completely portable and require no electricity, so you can use them anytime, anywhere. Will you be trying our Soft-Grip Rollers? Let us know in the comments!

Is there anything more frustrating than not being able to achieve the hair you want? Whether you’ve been trying to grow long locks or find yourself wishing your hair was fuller or thicker, there are many small oversights that can disrupt your hair growth and prevent you from getting the hair of your dreams. We’re breaking down some of the most common mistakes that prevent hair growth and hopefully, helping you get on the right track to achieving your hair goals. Neglecting The Scalp At Calista, we are constantly trying to remind our BeautyBrave customers of the importance of scalp health. While this is true for the overall look, feel, and health of your hair, it’s also a major factor in how quickly you’re able to grow your hair. When your scalp is filled with dead skin and clogged hair follicles, your hair growth is going to be disrupted. Make sure you use a shampoo and conditioner pair that not only cleanse the scalp, but also exfoliate and condition it. Additionally, use a scalp-stimulating brush to make sure your scalp is creating a viable environment for hair growth. Healthy hair starts at the scalp, so make sure that you’re giving your scalp the attention it deserves before pursuing any other hair routine changes to accelerate growth. Over-washing Fragile Strands  A lot of people think that constant shampooing and conditioning is the key to healthy hair. But actually, the opposite is true. While washing your hair on a regular basis is important for your scalp health and overall growth pattern, over-washing your hair can cause more harm than good. If you wash your hair on a daily basis, you risk over-saturating your hair strands, stripping your hair of its natural oils, and even causing damage by towel drying or using a blowdryer. How often you wash your hair is completely personal to you, so check with the stylist who knows your hair best and come up with a hair washing schedule that won’t stand in the way of your hair growth journey. Excessive Heat Exposure As a hair tool company, we’re never going to fully discourage you from using heat styling tools to get the style you desire. However, we want what’s best for you and your hair, so take it from us: excessive, unhealthy heat styling is going to stand in the way of hair growth and overall hair health. Excessive heat would mean using heat without protection or using too high a heat setting for your hair type. Unhealthy heat would mean using heat styling tools that don’t use ionic and ceramic technology, thus actively drying out the hair. When heat styling, remember these three things: 1. Always use a heat protectant spray before exposing your hair to heat. 2. Consider your hair type when choosing a heat setting (fine, thin hair typically only requires a low setting, while thick, coarse hair may require a higher setting). 3. Do not use hair tools unless they have ionic and ceramic properties. Ionic properties help maintain moisture and prevent frizz while ceramic barrels produce a far infrared heat that penetrates the hair shaft, working from the inside out to protect your hair's natural moisture and shine. Bad Brushing As we’ve stated above, brushing your hair is important for a healthy scalp! However, you want to make sure you’re brushing it the right way. When trying to remove tangles or knots, being forceful and yanking the hair will cause a lot of harm to what might otherwise be perfectly healthy hair strands. To avoid damaging your hair and set the stage for better growth, start by choosing the correct brush for your hair and hair goals. When brushing out knots, avoid harsh tugging and pulling. We recommend starting at the ends of your hair and working your way up to gently untangle as you go. Once you’ve removed all of the knots, then brush from the scalp downward to get that necessary scalp stimulation. Additionally, we highly recommend using a flexible brush to work your conditioner through your hair in the shower. This way, you’re certain that you’re gently removing knots while also working a fortifying conditioner or hair mask through the entirety of your hair to set the stage for healthy hair growth. What are your favorite hair growth tips? Let us know in the comment section or comment on one of our recent social posts on Facebook (Calista by Maria McCool) or Instagram (@calistatools).

Have you heard? Our Ion Hot Rollers are back in stock! An incredible set of 12 ionic rollers, this set is created in two sizes so that both short and long hair girls can embrace this simple, safe, and hands-free solution for classic curls, easy waves, and maximum volume. Today, we’re breaking down the basics about this tool, choosing which size would be best for your hair, and how to create different looks. The Basics Originally developed back in 2018, our Ion Hot Rollers were reintroduced in 2023. With great success on their QVC launch and a quick sellout on our website, it’s clear that they’ve become a fan favorite in only a few short months! Available in 2 sizes (Short and Long), this set of 12 ionic rollers lets you add hands-free curls, waves, and volume, all while promoting shiny, healthy hair. The rollers heat to 230°F and are ready to go in 3-5 minutes. They even remain hot for 20 minutes when you take them off the base! Equipped with ionic properties and infrared rays, these rollers have 32 minerals actually baked into the plastic, promoting shiny, strong, and healthy hair. Each roller is topped with a Temperature Indicator Dot that turns from black to red when hot, alerting you to the temperature of your rollers both in and our of your hair. Finally, the set is complete with 12 claw-style clips that easily attach the rollers to your head and hold your hair in place, allowing the volume to set. Choosing Your Size First, we’ll start with some simple specs: Short Set Size: 6 Short Rollers (2.5" L x 1" W), 6 Medium Rollers (2.5" L x 1.25" W) Long Set Size: 12 Long Rollers (5.25" L x 1" W) Base Size: 10"L x 6.5"W x 2"H When choosing which set you should order, it comes down to hair length. The Short set is recommended for styles that fall above the shoulders. Because it comes with two different size rollers, you can use this set to create lift for ultra-short styles, as well as easy curls for bob-length or mid-length hair. Those with thinner, finer hair may also benefit from this set even if their hair is on the longer side. The Long Set is exclusively meant for long-haired ladies. Measuring in at more than twice the size of the Short Set rollers, this set is meant to give curls and waves to hair that goes past the shoulders and beyond. If you have particularly thick hair and a lot of it, this set is for you! How to Style For all of these looks, we recommend using the teeth of the roller to comb through your section of hair before rolling. To prevent tangling, we also recommend that you remove the rollers by unclasping the clips and gently letting hair unravel. Classic Curls Separate hair into approximately a 1” wide section. Place roller at the root of the hair section. Keeping roller in place, wrap the section of hair around the roller. Secure roller with clip provided and let set. We recommend 15 minutes if you have coarse or resistant hair and 7 minutes if your hair curls easily. Long Waves Separate hair into approximately a 2” wide section. Place roller in a vertical position toward the middle of the hair section. Keeping roller in place, wrap the section of hair around the roller. Secure roller with clip provided and let set. We recommend 10 minutes if you have coarse or resistant hair and 5 minutes if your hair curls easily. Volume & Lift Separate hair into approximately a 1” wide section. Place roller at the end of the hair section. Roll inward until the entire section of hair is wrapped around the roller. Secure roller with clip provided and let set. We recommend 5 minutes if you have coarse or resistant hair and 3 minutes if your hair curls easily. Will you be trying the Ion Hot Rollers? Let us know in the comment section or comment on one of our recent social posts on Facebook (Calista by Maria McCool) or Instagram (@calistatools).

Dandruff: we’ve all heard of it. Perhaps you know someone who uses a special shampoo, perhaps you’ve seen the commercials for how to handle such an affliction, or perhaps you’ve dealt with the itchy, irritating stuff yourself. Regardless of your experience with dandruff, you’re likely well aware of what an annoyance it can be. Not only does dandruff affect the state of your hair, it can also seriously hinder your day-to-day comfort. Today, we’re breaking down what dandruff is, why it occurs, and small steps you can take to beat it. What Is Dandruff? Dandruff is a common condition that causes flecks of dry skin to flake from the scalp. Believe it or not, we are constantly shedding and the top layer of our skin is being renewed on a regular basis. Because the cells are shed one at a time, this ongoing shedding typically goes unnoticed. However, if the scalp is inflamed, these cells may stick together as they shed, causing large clumps to come off at once in the form of visible flakes. This is what we’ve come to know as dandruff. It’s most likely to become visible when falling onto the shoulders, specifically when wearing dark colors, or trapped by hair on the scalp.  While dandruff is not contagious, it can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and downright frustrating. Why Does Dandruff Occur? While this condition can occur in all people, there are a few factors that add to your risk. For one, dandruff is much more common in young or middle-aged adults. It’s also more common in men than in women. That being said, about 50% of the population will suffer from dandruff at some point in their life. How would you know if you have dandruff? While you might be compelled to wait around for a pile of snow-like flakes to compile on your shoulder, the main symptom to look out for is an irritated, flaking, itchy scalp. The typical reaction to this is to scratch it, but this can cause scratch marks, sores, or even additional scaling of the scalp and actually exacerbate the problem.   Dealing With Your Dandruff While the correct strategy is completely subjective and depends on factors like age and underlying conditions, there are some lifestyle changes that can help! We recommend avoiding products that contain chemicals or promote dryness in your scalp. That means checking the ingredients of all your haircare products for sulfates and parabens. Known to strip hair of natural oils and dry out the scalp, parabens and sulfates are absolute no-no’s when shopping for shampoo. Stick with a naturally-derived formula that promises to be free of these harmful additives. Other changes like brushing your hair more often to clear it of dead skin and managing your stress levels can play a role in helping prevent dandruff. If you are certain you have a serious case of dandruff, it’s important to see a dermatologist. It’s possible that there is an underlying condition such as psoriasis that needs to be dealt with by a professional. Additionally, dermatologists have access to treatments that can target your dandruff, such as prescription shampoos that help exfoliate the dead skin cells or target yeast production that can lead to dandruff.

Like all transformations, hair changes don’t happen overnight. Aging causes a lot of changes, so many of them valuable beyond measure. Things like becoming more comfortable in your own skin, acquiring more knowledge about the world, and building a life that fulfills you are all beautiful effects that can only take form over time. However, aging can also bring on some other changes that we look upon less favorably. At Calista, the main changes we’re interested in helping you prepare for are those that affect your hair. We’re all about embracing your hair at every stage, so think of this guide not as a warning or a negative look into the future, but instead as a way to be prepared for these inevitable changes and embrace them as part of the journey. After all, the journey is what it’s all about. Keep reading for some of the most common hair changes you can expect to see in your 40s and how to adjust your routine so that these changes don’t cause you any distress or panic. It’s just hair! And it’s just life! We promise. Growth Pattern It’s no secret that hair growth slows down as we get older. By midlife and beyond, our hair is spending less time in the growth phase and more time in the resting phase, meaning it not only grows a little more slowly, but also may not be able to grow as long as it could in years past. While this can be a side effect of menopause, genetics are also to blame. As you age, the hair follicles that were once thick will become thinner, lighter, and finer. Additionally, every time one of your hair follicles repeats the growth cycle, the hair that grows in may be a little weaker. This causes your hair to be more prone to breakage, preventing you from growing past a certain length. How to Help: While we all know there is no way to beat aging, there are ways to set yourself up for more success in improving your hair growth rate. A healthy scalp is the foundation for healthy hair, so using a shampoo and conditioner that actually treat the scalp is a great place to start. That being said, make sure you aren’t over-washing your hair! Two to three times per week is plenty to nourish your scalp and create a foundation for healthy growth while also ensuring you aren’t stripping your hair of its remaining natural oils. Thickness & Strength As we mentioned above, as we age, our hair grows in a little slower and thinner with each growth cycle. In addition to this, the protective outer cuticle that houses each strand becomes weaker. This means that hair is less likely to bounce back and more likely to break. This has to do with the changing hair growth cycles, but also with your body’s natural oil production. As with anything else, our bodies product less of these natural oils as we age, often starting in our early 40s or even late 30s. The decline in natural production results in hair that is less thick and strong, and even less shiny, smooth, and soft. How to Help: Be kind to your hair! Always employ a heat protectant spray, keep hot tools on their lowest possible heat setting, and don’t use brushes that yank or pull your hair when trying to detangle. We recommend Jousse Vitality Spray as the ultimate companion for aging hair. Not only does it act as a heat protectant before exposing your hair to hot tools or UV rays, it also assists with detangling so you’re less likely to break hair while brushing and infuses hair with vitamins and minerals that can act as restorative agents for strength and thickness. Color Perhaps the most obvious change of the bunch: aging hair starts to go gray! What was once a few stray silver strands popping up as you perform your morning blowout has become a patch here and there, or maybe even the majority of your hair. This comes from those pesky follicles mentioned previously – not only do they control the thickness of your hair regrowth, but they also control the color. Your hair follicles produce melanin, which gives your hair its natural pigment. As this process starts to slow down, there is less and less melanin being produced, causing your hair to become lighter, leading to graying that usually stats at your temples and slowly extends to your crown. How to Help: Beyond the obvious solution of actively coloring your hair or using temporary hair color, we love the idea of embracing your gray and keeping your hair as hydrated as possible while doing so. Set the stage for healthy hair by using a nutrient-rich shampoo and conditioner that treat the scalp as well as the hair and prevent frizzy, lifeless hair. When gray is well taken care of, it shines just as beautifully as any other hair color. We hope this info and these tips were helpful and encouraging! At Calista, we want you to embrace your hair at every stage and have all of the information and solutions at your fingertips. Are there any other topics on aging hair you’d like us to cover? Let us know in the comment section or comment on one of our recent social posts on Facebook (Calista by Maria McCool) or Instagram (@calistatools).

One of the most important relationships of your life is the one you have with your hairstylist! While this may or may not be true for everyone, it’s certainly something we believe at Calista. Finding the right hairstylist and the right salon for you can be a major factor in how you choose a hairstyle, how that hairstyle suits you, and how it inevitably impacts your whole aesthetic. And like we always say, the way you look can really impact the way you feel. Today, we’re talking all about how to choose a hair salon and find the right hairstylist for you so that you can get your hair where you want it to be and you’re your life feeling strong, confident, and completely BeautyBrave.   Start With Recommendations As always, your friends and family members are an excellent resource. Because absolutely everyone needs a haircut or color every now and then, you’re bound to have people in your life willing to share their go-to salon or stylist with you. Another great tip for getting recommendations is to look into local salons and read the reviews – you’re bound to have a quick understanding of whether a place holds a favorable opinion in your community. Our final and most BeautyBrave recommendation-seeking tip of all: if you see a woman with a hairstyle you absolutely love, go up to her and ask where she gets her hair done! Not only will you get the exact recommendation you’ve been searching for, but you’re spreading positivity and likely giving her a compliment she won’t be forgetting anytime soon! What To Look for in a Salon Even if you have a running list of a few salon recommendations, you’ll want to narrow down which one you definitely want to try. Here are a few things to look for when choosing the right salon for you! Location This is a highly personal qualifier, but it’s important nonetheless! Depending on how often you want to get your hair done, choosing a salon that’s within reasonable distance from your home or office could be very important. Maybe you’re only planning to get a proper haircut and color every few months and choosing a salon an hour away isn’t a big deal. Both scenarios are completely understandable! This is just something we would want you to keep in mind when making your selection.  Services Will you be wanting a balayage treatment or a more standard dye job? Are you wanting a big change from long locks into a pixie or just looking to trim off some dead ends? Do you need someone who specializes in curly hair or could you manage with a stylist who doesn’t have much experience under their belt? Before choosing a salon, make sure you have a clear idea about what you want done to your hair. Some hair treatments and coloring styles take a higher skill level to achieve and the last thing you want is to be left with a poorly done style and wishing you’d done more research. Stylists Perhaps most important next to services is the demeanor and experience of the stylists. A large part of getting your hair done and feeling brave enough to embrace change of any kind is being made to feel comfortable and confident that the people taking care of you are looking out for your best interests and take pride in their work. Pay attention to reviews that talk about the demeanor of the stylists, the feel of the atmosphere, and the professionalism of those who work in the salon. All of these factors are going to play into your experience! Atmosphere Look closely at the pictures the salon provides in their listing! Does it look like a place where you’ll feel comfortable and relaxed? Is it clean, tidy, and organized? Does it appear that a great deal of care has been taken to equip the space with comfortable chairs, suitable lighting, and nicely-appointed décor? These factors may not seem important, but in the beauty space, the extra touches go a long way. The care and attention given to the space is likely the care and attention you can expect will be given to you. Do you have any tips on how to choose a hair salon? Let us know in the comment section or comment on one of our recent social posts on Facebook (Calista by Maria McCool) or Instagram (@calistatools).

At Calista, we’re all about giving you the tools and resources to create a hair routine that makes the most sense for you. Whether you’re interested in simple hacks that make your hair look a little more polished or you just don’t know where to start when it comes to upgrading your haircare routine, we’re giving you five simple tips that can really take you to the next level.  Clean Your Tools It seems simple, but most people don’t even think of this as a necessary task. The truth is, styling tools and hairbrushes that are being used on a regular basis consistently take in dirt, oil, and dead skin from the hair and scalp. Constantly using these tools without taking the time to clean or replace them can result in hair looking greasy, dirty, and even cause damage or breakage. First of all, make sure you clean the hair out of the bristles of your hair tools after every third use. Fun Fact: Calista provides a small tool called The Glide that actually comes with every Perfecter tool. It is a small, plastic comb that easily allows you to remove hair from tool bristles. It can be used on other styling tools as well! As for cleaning hairbrushes – while there are cleansing solutions available for purchase, a great at-home remedy is mixing a clarifying shampoo with a teaspoon or two of baking soda in water. Just soak your brush for 3-5 minutes and scrub it clean with an old toothbrush! Loosen Up Your Curls Here’s an incredibly simple tip that often gets overlooked. Do you ever wonder how celebrities and stylists are able to accomplish a true beachy wave, a glamorous Hollywood curl, or lived-in volume that looks natural and chic? It’s not because they’re using different tools or some miracle styling product – it’s because they brush it out. After you’ve styled your hair with your preferred size wave or curl, use a medium hold or strong hold hairspray and allow it to set. Many people stop here, thinking that the curls look perfect and the hairspray needs to remain completely undisturbed for the curls to hold. On healthy hair, this is not the case! After you’ve allowed your curls to set with the hairspray, lightly brush through them with a flexible hairbrush and fluff out your hair. This will give your hair a more lived-in look that makes your curls look natural, healthy, and full. Fill It In Another hack that is pretty straightforward: filling in your hairline or thinning spots. Just like many people use an eyebrow pencil to make their brows look thicker, there are endless product options out there for filling in your actual hair. If you want to make your hair look thicker, give yourself a more consistent hairline, or even cover up a few greys here and there to create the look of a perfect hair color, use a root touch-up product to fill in your hair. An at-home hack for those not interested in making a purchase: find an eyeshadow in your repertoire that best mimics your hair color, take a makeup brush, and shade away! Eliminate Frizz Something that can often have a negative effect on the appearance of well-kept hair is frizz. No matter how healthy or clean your hair is, a ton of untamed frizz can really tone down the polished appearance of any hairstyle. A few tips we know to work: sleeping on a silk pillowcase, using cold water after you shampoo, finding a shampoo free of the  sulfates and parabens known to dry out your hair. There are plenty of tips out there that can help tame frizzy hair, but the best thing to do is to talk to the person who knows your hair best: your stylist! In the meantime, try using a hydrating shampoo and a hair mask treatment. Even small changes like these can take you far when it comes to de-frizzing! No Daily Shampooing Speaking of shampoo, did you know that you’re really not meant to use it every day? This is especially true if your hair is prone to oiliness! For all hair types, over washing your hair actually strips it of its natural oils and leaves it looking dry and lifeless. A good rule of thumb is to only wash your hair two or three times per week. For those with curly or coarse hair, it may be better to wash your hair only once a week. As always, we recommend consulting your hairdresser for what is the best course of action for your specific hair type. Do you have any hairstyling tips that changed the way you do your hair? We want to hear them! Let us know in the comment section or comment on one of our recent social posts on Facebook (Calista by Maria McCool) or Instagram (@calistatools).

These days, the options are endless when it comes to hairbrushes. From boar bristles and round brushes to vented brushes and detanglers – how do you know which is right for your hair? We’re breaking down some of the most common types of hairbrushes on the market and explaining which you might use for different hair lengths, textures, and styles. 5 Most Common Types of Hairbrushes Detangler Brush Usable on both wet and dry hair, detangler brushes are incredibly versatile and useful. Not only do they keep damage to a minimal when brushing through knotty hair, they also feature fine, soft bristles that limit tugging to prevent pain. Wet-dry brushes with these light, flexible bristles are the only brushes that should be used when brushing in the shower or detangling wet hair. Hot tip, these pain-limiting brushes are great to use on kids’ hair! Curved Vented Brush The purpose of a vented brush is so that hot air can flow through it when blow drying. The curvature offers a more ergonomic design that easily fits the shape of the human head. While the bristles on these brushes can vary, they’re often fine and soft, similar to detangler brushes. This combined with the lightweight, vented plastic construction and comfortable shape makes them ideal for brushing while drying your hair. Round Brush If you’re a Calista fan, you know we love a round brush. Many of our hair tools are created with this construction. Why? Because it’s optimal for styling hair! A round brush is entirely circular, which simplifies the blowout process and can help you create waves or curls when blow drying. While these brushes can be used on damp, they are not designed like a detangler and we would not advise using a round brush outside of styling purposes! Paddle Brush With a wide base and large surface area, paddle brushes are designed to smooth a lot of hair at once. The flat shape of the brush encourages a smoothing affect on the hair while removing frizz and helping prevent breakage. This type of brush can work on all hair types, as it smooths hair without disrupting the natural pattern of curls or waves, while also easily working with pin-straight locks. Comb We know, we know, this isn’t technically a hairbrush, but hear us out! Combs are equally important when it comes to taming and styling hair. Fine combs with a long, thin stem and tight, fine teeth are great teasing and lifting hair while styling. Wide-tooth combs with thicker teeth can be used to get through even the curliest of manes. Choosing a Hairbrush by Hair Type Straight Hair Paddle brushes are highly recommended for straight hair. The straight line and large surface makes for an ideal choice when detangling and styling naturally straight hair. Curly Hair There are several brushes that can work well with curly hair. A boar bristle brush is one of the most commonly suggested types to use on curly hair because it helps shape your curls while preventing damage. A wide-tooth comb is also highly recommended for curly hair, especially when wet. Thick Hair A standard hairbrush with nylon bristles will help you control and style thick hair. This can be in form of a vented brush, a standard hairbrush, or a paddle brush. With thick hair, it’s most important that the bristles are firm enough to brush through the hair without damaging or breaking it. Fine Hair Finer hair can use a more flexible brush with thinner, lighter bristles. A detangler brush or curved vented brush can both be useful when getting knots out or brushing the hair when wet. Choosing a Hairbrush by Hair Length Short Hair While any of the listed brushes can be used on short hair, it’s best to consider size when choosing a hairbrush that works for you. For instance, going for a largescale paddle brush wouldn’t make the most sense on a bob style with a side bang. Instead, opt for a detangler brush with a smaller surface area or a 1” round brush to help with styling bangs or creating flippy looks. Long Hair While the brush you’d choose for your long hair would most likely depend on hair type and texture, a paddle brush, detangler brush, or wide-tooth comb should do the trick for nearly all long styles. To avoid split ends, consider using a detangler brush on long, straight hair when wet or damp and a wide-tooth comb on long, curly hair when wet or damp. Choosing a Hairbrush by Styling Goal Volume For creating lasting volume in the form of voluminous curls or a classic blowout, using a round brush while blow drying is the way to go. Don’t be afraid to overdirect your hair to ensure you really get that extra oomph like you do at the salon. Another great tip is to blast your blowout with a little bit of cool hair to really lock in your look. Straightening When smoothing your hair with a flat iron or straightening brush, follow it up with a paddle brush to keep that consistently smooth style throughout. If your hair is prone to knotting, using a detangler brush can also be a gentle way to keep it looking smooth and sleek. Lift For extra lift at the crown, we recommend a fine-tooth comb to really tease up your root and give your hair lasting lift!

Mother’s Day is fast approaching! This year on May 12, we’ll all be taking the time to celebrate the very special people who give us love, comfort, and some of the best advice there is! Today, we’re writing up some of our favorite hair tips that we learned straight from the expert herself: Mom! Don’t Skip Trims Those dead ends won’t get rid of themselves! Whether you want to encourage your hair to continue growing, decrease frizz, or enhance your volume, the only way to achieve any of these goals is to make sure you’re regularly clipping off the split and broken ends of your strands. It’s recommended to trim your hair every six to eight weeks. Pamper Yourself Mother knows best! Take time to treat yourself (and your hair) to some well-deserved nourishment. Whether that means getting a professional shampoo every now and then or even just indulging at home with a high-quality hair mask, taking care of yourself and recharging your battery is the only way you can be your best you! Choose Quality Products Quality over quantity! In today’s hair market, there are endless options for styling products, shampoos, hair tools, and more. Rather than filling your bathroom with tons of items, find the products and tools that work for you and ensure safe, healthy styling. Using premium products and hair tools that fortify your hair with naturally-derived ingredients and protect you from damage and breakage can make all the difference in your day-to-day routine. Embrace Your Natural Hair Work with what you’ve got! Loving moms throughout history have always insisted that being yourself isn’t just good enough, it’s the best you can possibly be. Whether you’re a curly girl or you’ve got stick straight hair, embracing what your hair does naturally is a step toward loving it correctly. And most importantly, it’s a step toward loving yourself, just like Mom wants you to. Happy upcoming Mother’s Day to all the moms out there! We at Calista wish you nothing but the happiest, most loving of celebrations!

Spring is coming! The freshest season of the year is fast approaching and nothing says ‘new beginnings’ like giving your hair a little transformation. At Calista, we’re all about small changes, so we always try to feature ideas that range from a small embellishment to a full-on hair change. The rest is up to you! Today, we’re talking about the 4 biggest hair trends we’re seeing this season and how you can implement them to freshen up your look. Embellishments This Spring, vintage glamour is back in a big way. We’re seeing bows, clips, and baubles everywhere we turn. While these embellishments are often reserved for the holiday season, 2024 is bringing accessories to the forefront and encouraging all of us to add a little glamour to our everyday style. Sleek & Straight A classic that never goes out of style, straight hair is springing up all over the place. While curls and volume will always have their place, the sleek, pin-straight look offers a fresh alternative. If you want to try out this look for yourself, we suggest using a heat-safe tool that works for your hair type. If you have naturally curly hair, try out the AirGlide or the Triangl to smooth your strands. Headbands Don’t feel like styling your hair? Throw on a headband! The ‘80s workout look is back and simple, cloth headbands on day-old hair are a sweet homage to a different time. Another headband trend that’s showing up once again this Spring are the ‘90s comb bands. These work great for a slicked back look. Plus, who doesn’t love a little ‘90s nostalgia? Bob Cuts From blunt bobs to sleek lobs, the chic bob haircut is reappearing as a staple look for all ages and hair types. One of the best things about this cut? It provides an opportunity to chop off all your dead ends, gives your hair a thicker, fuller appearance, and immediately gives you a look of effortless sophistication. Will you be trying any of these hair trends this Spring? Do you have other suggestions? Let us know in the comments!

At Calista, we’re all about embracing your age. Whether you’re experiencing first-time grays in your 40s, undergoing thinning in your 50s, or seeing major hair loss in your 60s and 70s, it can be uncomfortable and confusing to see change happening before your eyes. Even if you recognize that changes in your hair as you age are inevitable, it’s still jarring to be unsure of what’s standard, how to proceed, and whether or not there’s anything you can do. Today, we’re talking about the common side effects that aging can have on your hair and how you can tackle these problems while still embracing your age (and your fabulous hair)! Going Grey This is likely the most talked about side effect of aging when it comes to hair. According to hair research done at Colorado State University, by the age of 50, half of men and women will have at least 50% grey hair. Why does this occur? Like many hair issues, it all starts at the root. The root of every strand of hair is surrounded by a follicle, which is a cylinder of tissue that lives beneath the skin. The follicle houses pigment cells, which constantly churn out a chemical called melanin. Melanin is what gives your hair its natural color. As we get older, less and less melanin is produced in our hair follicles, which leads to the eventual greying of each hair strand. While it’s possible to go grey prematurely due to health issues or excessive stress, the lack of melanin production is the most likely cause. While there is no known way to reverse greys, there are endless ways to color your hair or, if you’re feeling particularly BeautyBrave, keep your hair healthy and strong while maintaining your newly natural grey tones. There’s a lot of power in reclaiming your grey, and many modern styles that encourage and embrace grey blending. Can’t get to a colorist at the moment? Try using a temporary color and coverage product like Embellish Root Touch-Up! Thinning and Hair Loss Another known hair peril of aging is the thinning and potential loss of hair. While it’s common knowledge that human beings actually shed an average of 100 hairs per day, the hair loss that often accompanies aging is falling outside of this normal window. While this can be due to medical issues, the most common reason for the seeming loss of hair is the slowing of growth. In short, you’re now losing more hair than you’re growing. Just like many other processes of our bodies, hair growth becomes less consistent and efficient over time. While how much hair you have on your head and body is ultimately determined by genetics, thinning hair is common as you age because the follicles have grown weaker. Every time the cycle of growth is repeated after a hair is lost, the returning hair is a little thinner. Some hair follicles even stop producing new hairs altogether. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 40% of women have visible hair loss by the time they reach age 40, while men can begin to show signs of hair loss as early as 30 years old. This can be difficult to reckon with, as it can call for a change in your hair routine or even your hairstyle, as many often feel they need to wear their hair shorter in order to combat the appearance of thinner or more fragile looking hair strands. While there are plenty of styling tips for making your hair look thicker, the best way to combat this thinning is by ensuring you maintain a healthy lifestyle, wash and brush your hair less frequently, and use products that are free of hormone-disrupting ingredients like parabens and sulfates. A shampoo and conditioning routine with naturally-derived ingredients is ideal. Breakage Not only does the hair growth slow with age, but the follicles also get finer and thinner, making hair more prone to breakage. The loss of melanin in hair follicles as we age is also combined with a loss of protein, making the hair that much more fragile. Aging hair has less bounce and elasticity, so when pulled, it simply breaks off. The protective cuticle on the outside of hair strands also recedes over time, causing hair to break even faster. The best way to combat breakage is to avoid excessive heat exposure and coloring. While going grey might inspire you to ramp up your coloring routine, try to avoid bleaching and at-home dyeing practices. Instead, always consult a professional when it comes to permanently altering your color to give your hair its best shot at staying healthy and strong. While the thinning of your hair as you age might implore you to start using more heated styling tools to get that volume back, never trust a hair tool that isn’t using ceramic and ionic properties. These components safeguard against the drying and breaking that styling with hot tools can cause. Try to stick to heat-protected styling tools and utilize styling products like volumizing foam or texturizing spray as much as possible. Do you have questions about aging hair? Our team is always here and ready to answer them! Leave us a comment or contact us at CusomerCare@calistatools.com

Have you heard about Calista’s Refurbished Tools? Our newest program is all about making the most of our amazing, gently-loved tools while reducing waste and helping our customers save money. A Little Backstory It all started with a whole lot of excess tools! When we receive returns at our Calista office, our amazing Customer Care team always ensures that the inventory we keep on hand is fully-functioning and free of damage. Over time, we started to realize we had a huge amount of tools that were wasting away in our office when they could be in the hands of our incredible customers. That’s when our team came together with a vision: instead of leaving all of these perfectly good tools dormant and eventually having to throw them away, we would clean, inspect, and test every last one and offer them to our customers at an unbeatable price! What are Refurbished Tools? Refurbished Tools are previously-owned hair tools that are fully-functioning, clean, and sometimes, completely brand new! They are hair tools that have been restored and prepared for resell, in other words, refurbished! While you can choose your desired size, the color or pattern you receive will be randomly selected from our wide range of fabulous prints and colors. We think it adds to the fun! Why Shop Refurbished? A few reasons to consider shopping refurbished… You want to try out a Calista tool but don’t want to pay full price You want a limited-edition Calista print or color that’s no longer for sale You love saving money (and saving the planet!) Have you tried any of our Refurbished Tools? Comment to let us know how you like it!

We’ve all heard the speculation: air drying is better for your hair than using a blowdryer. But is this true? And if so, why? We’re getting into the facts about air drying versus blow drying so that you can decide for yourself! Why Air Dry? You might choose to air dry your hair if you’re prone to scalp sensitivity or dandruff. It can help prevent dryness and itchiness on the scalp, as well as better maintain hair’s moisture. Air drying also protects the cuticle, or outer layer of each hair strand, making your hair look and feel smoother. Finally, air drying is said to help maintain color-treated hair longer, reducing the amount of salon visits needed to maintain vibrant color long term. Air drying is a great alternative to blow drying, which can cause heat damage, breakage, and dryness. Why Blow Dry? Blow drying can be a better option to save time and ensure your hair has a smooth, shiny look. You also might consider blow drying if air drying starts to weaken your hair over time. When hair is left to air dry, the cell membrane complex layer of the hair starts to swell. If you wash your hair frequently, the repeated swelling and de-swelling of the hair can provoke thinning and breakage. Which Should You Choose? There are pros and cons to both! While air drying can weaken your strands due to excessive swelling and de-swelling, blow drying can cause heat damage to the surface layer of the hair. We propose a compromise: Combine the two! When you finish washing your hair, pat it dry and gently squeeze out the excess water with a towel. Use a fortifying hair product, like Jousse Vitality Spray, to lock in moisture while enriching the hair with vitamins and protecting it from heat exposure. When hair is no longer wet, but just damp, use your blow dryer or a blow-drying brush like the StyleDryer Pro on its lowest setting. Once the hair is 80 percent dry, gently brush it out. Now, you can begin your styling process using slightly higher heat to lock in your look. Do you prefer air drying or blow drying? Let us know in the comments!

Perhaps you’ve never heard of our hair heroes or perhaps you’ve been using them for years – either way, we’re so excited to tell you more about Jousse Cleanse and Condition! Pronounced “juice,” this Calista line is all about nourishing, protecting, and restoring hair from root to end. Keep reading to learn more about what makes our shampoo & conditioner duo so special, why you should try it, and a breakdown of its most effective natural ingredients. The Basics Created from naturally-derived ingredients, this shampoo & condition pair is made with a vitamin, botanical, and herbal enriched blend that fortifies the scalp and hair to promote hair growth, smoothness, shine, and strength. Jousse Cleanse is a sulfate-free shampoo that exfoliates the scalp and increases hair and follicle strength. Formulated with protein, vitamin complexes, and nutrients, it’s made specifically to clean the scalp of product buildup, toxins, and residue while helping prevent dryness, flaking, and itching. Jousse Condition is a multi-protein scalp and hair conditioner that creates a healthy growing environment while fostering thicker, stronger hair. Formulated with glycoprotein, vitamin complex, and botanical extracts, it treats the scalp, increases shine, controls frizz, and leaves hair silky smooth. The Benefits Promotes Hair Growth: The Jousse formula stimulates hair follicles for a youthful scalp complexion and healthier hair growth. With a PurenessPress™ blend of red clover, caffeine, B complex, vitamins, saw palmetto, and willow herb, this cleansing blend is made to purify and fortify your scalp. Protects Color: Created with ColorPlex Shield™, Jousse contains melanin, honey, and olive extract for unmatched color protection. Plus, rice protein helps add vibrancy, volume, and shine. Prevents Breakage: Jousse features a Safeguard Boost™ of keratin amino acids and botanical extracts to help defend from UV damage and promote strong, healthy strands. Say goodbye to breakage, spilt ends, and frizz! Natural Ingredient Breakdown Saw Palmetto: Stops the formation of DHT, the leading cause of hair loss Red Clover: Nourishes the scalp providing a more youthful hair complexion. Olive Leaf Extract: Moisturizes the scalp and hair without adding weight. Quinoa Extract: Hydrates and softens skin. Rice Protein: Repairs hair and adds volume and shine. Vitamin B Complex: Increases microcirculation in the scalp and enhances nutrient uptake. Will you be trying Jousse Cleanse & Condition? Let us know in the comments!

The sweetest holiday of the year has come once again and we’ve chosen some of our favorite styles for you to try out! Whether you’ve got a big date planned or a Galentine’s dinner with the girls, trying out a fun look to mark a holiday is a great way to spread a little cheer and show a lot of self-love. Happy Valentine’s Day from us at Calista – we hope you love these looks!   Long & Luscious It’s no secret that long, wavy hair is always a winning ‘do. This year, we recommend fluffing up your look with a little curl. We would recommend styling in one of two ways: ‘90s waves with the BodyWaver or classic volume with the Ion Hot Rollers.     Romantic Updo Nothing says classic romance like hair swept up with a flourish. Try out a basic French Twist (instructions linked here), an elegant low bun, or even a dramatic high ponytail. For a little extra shimmer, top it off with a sparkly clip or a heart-shaped barrette. Want to make sure it stays all night? Embellish Finishing Spray will lock in your look for the long haul.     Spiky & Sexy We could never forget about our pixie girls! Spice up your Valentine’s plans with a spiky look. Choose a texturizing product like Embellish Texturizing Definer or 02 Texturizer Spray and comb your hair up using your fingers. Use your product of choice to add a little more texture to your style and keep it in place for whatever your V-day evening holds.  

Hair shedding is a very real issue! Whether you deal with chronic hair loss or simply shed a lot of strands every time you wash or brush your hair, it can be helpful to know the causes of hair shedding and understand some of the simplest ways to combat it.Why Do I Shed?While the true reasons can be different for everyone, some of the most common causes of hair loss and shedding are: Stress, Hair Damage, Hormonal Changes, Weight Loss, Childbirth, and more. While many of these causes are best addressed by a doctor, we have a few helpful tips on how to prevent further hair loss when it comes to keeping your hair as healthy and strong as possible.Don’t Over-StyleThis may seem pretty basic, but it’s a helpful tip nonetheless! While we love and encourage trying out new styling tools and playing around with fun hairstyles, over-styling your hair can contribute to hair loss. Excessive pulling into tight styles or exposing your strands to lots of heat damage from using styling tools can weaken your strands, resulting in damage and hair loss. We’re all for trying out new styles, but try to give your hair a break every now and then!Adjust Your RoutineAn enriching cleanse and conditioning routine is key when it comes to keeping hair from shedding. Most importantly, find a shampoo and conditioner that don’t just address the hair, but also address the scalp. The scalp is where hair growth begins. If pores are clogged and follicles are damaged or covered in dead skin, your hair’s growth may be disrupted, and otherwise healthy hair strands may start to fall out. Find a cleanse & conditioner that give the scalp the attention it deserves!Keep It HealthyIt’s not a myth: regular trims really are as essential! Not only does trimming your ends get rid of dead or damaged hair, it also ensures that your split ends aren’t further damaging your hair strands and causing them to break off. We recommend trimming your hair every six to eight weeks to help keep it healthy and combat shedding.

The newest member of the Embellish Line is here and it’s bringing you shine, volume, heat protection, and more! The Basics Embellish Styling Cream is a hair styling cream that can be used on damp or dry hair. It’s formulated with Vitamin E and argan oil to actively fortify the hair and prevent heat damage, breakage, and split ends. Not only does this product work wonders at prevention, but it also beautifies your hair in one simple step. The special formula adds visible body and fullness to hair, prevents frizz and helps detangle, and best of all, leaves it with a beautiful, lustrous shine. Why Embellish Styling Cream? We’ve got a little secret worth sharing…Embellish Styling Cream is the official rebrand of our former product, Achieve 10! Those 10 benefits you’re used to from our original product can be yours once more with this lovely new member of the Embellish Line! As you may recall, Achieve 10 promised the following: 1. Smooth & silky hair, 2. Frizz control, 3. Added Shine, 4. Extra body and fullness, 5. Detangles hair, 6. Protection for hair color, 7. Prevent split ends/hair breakage, 8. Guard from heat styling, 9. Restore dry, damaged hair, 10. Humidity blocker. Embellish Styling Cream has it all – just repackaged as a member of the Embellish line (where it truly belonged all along)! Will you be trying Embellish Styling Cream? Let us know in the comments!

When the weather gets cold, it can be helpful to change up your hair care routine to better suit the dropping temperatures. We gathered some of our favorite tips from our founder, Maria McCool, and some other professional stylists to make sure you have all the tips you need to keep your hair strong, healthy, and shiny all season long!  Wash Less Often As the weather gets colder and the air dries up, it becomes important to space out your washes. We recommend shampooing 1-3 times per week and using a sulfate-free shampoo to keep your hair looking and feeling its best. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate A great tip for winter is to switch from styling gels or foams to heavier, cream-based products. These richer formulas can help prevent hair from drying out and ensure your strands remain healthy and hydrated. Deep conditioning once per week with a hair mask can also prevent dryness and breakage. Don’t Skip Trims Just like every season of the year, it’s important to maintain a regular trimming schedule. Trimming your hair every four to eight weeks maintains hair health and keep your style looking fresh and polished. As little as half of an inch off the bottom reduces the chances of split ends and breakage. What are your favorite tips for winter haircare? Let us know in the comments!

Tis the season for holiday parties, special celebrations, and all things sparkly! As far as we’re concerned, it’s the perfect time of year to try out some fun hairstyles. We’ve chosen some of our favorite hair looks that can be achieved with minimal effort and in as little as 5 minutes! Check out the  favorites from our Calista team below, and as always, be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments! Velvet Bow Bows have made a major comeback lately, and for good reason! They add a perfect touch of elegance and fun to any hairstyle. To style a perfect bow-topped ponytail: Gently sweep hair into a tight ponytail and tie with an elastic. To accessorize, tie a velvet bow of your color and size preference at the base of the pony. Texture, Texture, Texture This one is for the short hair girls! While pixie cuts and bobs don’t always get many options for changing up their style, one surefire way to change it up is by playing around with texture. Simply use a texturizing product and scrunch or flip hair to create a naturally tousled look. Pop of Sparkle Another look that can be applied to all hair lengths! This is the simplest styling hack of all: find a sparkly barrette or a flashy clip to add a touch of opulence to your look. A simple hair clip holding back even just a few strands of hair can add a holiday touch without being over the top. French Twist Nothing is more classic than an elegant French Twist. To create one yourself, pin your hair into top, middle, and bottom sections. Start with the middle section and twist it upward, securing with bobby pins to hold hair in place as you go. Next, take the bottom section and do the same, twisting and pinning the bottom section into the middle section. Finally, take your top section and pull it down, covering the middle and bottom sections. Give it a proper twist and secure it with pins.