Young, old and expired products: how do you know the ‘best before’ dates of your products?

Posted on by zonesuper

Who hasn’t happened to find a half-used product in a forgotten corner of their bathroom cupboard? And what about that travel size product from last year’s holidays that you hadn’t finished? There is rarely a trace of an expiration date on products, and wondering if these products are still safe is a must, and not at all trivial. So, let’s learn how to date our products and get the most out of our cosmetics!

Do z.one conceptTM products have an expiry date?

We do not have an expiration date on our products. Not because we have forgotten to do so, but because the European Regulation EC 1223/2009, recognized as one of the strictest cosmetic regulations in the world, does not require an expiration date for products that last more than 30 months. And all our products last more than 30 months, with the exception of the milk_shake® natural care milk / yogurt / cocoa / papaya hair masks, consisting of food-grade powders, whose expiration date is indicated by an hourglass symbol, expressed with month and year, and printed on each single dose sachet and on their box. This is the date by which the masks, if properly stored, can be used while remaining safe and continuing to fulfill their intended function.

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Generally speaking, water represents the ideal environment for the growth and proliferation of microorganisms, and for this reason the water content in formulas is also the worst threat to the preservation of the product. The milk_shake® natural care masks are freeze-dried powders, they do not contain water, therefore they do not constitute a fertile ground for the development of bacterial and organic contaminants. And this is also why there are no added preservatives. However, in order to avoid even the remote possibility of risk associated with the presence of water absorbed by environmental humidity, we subject the powders to a precautionary sterilization process to eliminate any bacterial content, as well as other contaminants. To ensure maximum life expectancy and promote the best user experience, we also recommend that you store the product in a cool, dry place.

 

What about all the other products without an expiry date? Do they have unlimited shelf-life? What about their water content?

If not properly stored, it only takes a few hours for high water content formulations to transform into a microbial culture broth. We know this very well, which is why our cosmetics contain carefully studied mixtures of preservatives: they are real defence systems with which we equip the products to ensure prolonged microbiological stability. Prolonged, of course, but in any case, not eternal.

All cosmetics deteriorate over time and even the most stable formulations in the world sooner or later degrade. After opening, elements such as light, bacteria, humidity and oxygen present in the air interact with the product, altering its characteristics. For example: the colour can change, the scent fades, the consistency can vary. It can take a long time for these transformations to become noticeable, but they can also be fast enough to transform the product within a few weeks.

The behaviour of each cosmetic product depends on numerous factors and each is a story in itself. Precisely for this reason each product must be accompanied by an “indicator” that tells us when it is best not to use it anymore. Its formal name is Period after Opening (PaO) or post-opening period and is defined as “the time in which the product, once opened, can be used without harmful effects”.

For z.one conceptTM cosmetics, we establish the duration of PaO product by product, by considering an infinite number of factors, and in particular by analysing the profile of the individual ingredients, studying the chemical-physical stability, and challenging the microbiological stability of the formula by means of a challenge test. You can find the PaO on the side or on the back of the packaging: it is that open jar with a number inside followed by the letter M indicating the months within which the product can be used from the opening date.

So, do all products that don’t have an expiry date have to have the PAO stated on the packaging?

In EU countries, the PaO is mandatory for cosmetics with a minimum duration of more than 30 months, but the legislation provides exceptions in cases where the information is deemed not relevant. This is what happens with single-dose products such as milk_shake® and simply zen vial lotions and with NO INHIBITION age renew revitalizing maintenance filler for hair, intended to be opened and used immediately in a single application, or with the hairsprays in milk_shake® lifestyling and NO INHIBITION styling lines, for which it is not possible to allow elements from the outside to get to the inside, as they are products under pressure.

There are non-cosmetic products, subject to different regulations and therefore not affected by the classifications indicated. This is the case, for example, of room fragrances, such as candles, diffusers and sprays from the simply zen sensorials line.

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Are expiry dates and the PAO sufficient to guarantee product safety?

They are concise, immediate and useful indications. The fact remains that, for all cosmetics lasting more than 30 months, it is not possible for the consumer to precisely define their age.

This is where our business choices come into play: we believe it is our responsibility to offer maximum safety and performance to hairdressers and to everyone who chooses us. This is why we adopt an ISO 9001: 2015 certified quality management system, which provides for a high turnover of products in our warehouses to avoid prolonged storing periods. We also encourage our distributors and hairdressers to do the same by asking to reduce stocks, respect storage instructions and not to exceed a shelf-life of 3 years.

This does not mean that all the products you find in your z.one conceptTM salon are immortal, but they are certainly young, arrived recently, and are carefully monitored at all stages of their life cycle.

IN SHORT:

  • products with a duration of no more than 30 months have an expiry date;
  • products with a duration of more than 30 months report the PaO which indicates the time within which they can be used from the date of opening;
  • we favour high product turnover, avoid prolonged storage periods and pass on these good practices to those who work with us to always guarantee fresh products of the highest quality.

From beginner to expert, master the art of ponytails

Posted on by zonesuper

There really are so many ways you can make your hair interesting with ponytails, here’s some advice on how to do them.

Ponytails are simple and versatile: the best solution for bad hair days, but also great for elegant and sophisticated looks. In between these two extremes there are many variations, sporty, pop, romantic… if you tend to tie your hair in the same way all the time, now’s the time to elevate your style and your ponytail technique!

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Easy-chic ponytail

A very easy way to make a simple ponytail more refined is to cover the elastic with a lock of hair. It’s done like this: after tying your hair, take a lock, wrap it around the elastic and finally clip it with a hairpin at the nape of the neck, under the tail. Choose an “invisible” elastic, that is, the colour closest to that of your hair, and fix the hairpin on the wavy side, so it will stay in place for longer.

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Upturned ponytail

Another way to give a touch of originality to ponytails is simply by securing the folded lengths in the elastic to create a sort of unfinished bun. Or, you can clip the middle part of the ponytail to the nape of the neck using a pair of bobby pins. The important thing is that the hair is well-kept, so it might be useful to apply an anti-frizz fluid before creating the hairstyle.

High ponytail (or very high ponytail)

A very popular hairstyle is the high ponytail, and in addition to a little skill you’ll also need the right hair-length and hair that is not too layered at the nape of the neck, to avoid finding yourself with strands of hair out of place. First, comb your hair well, then gather it upside down by securing it at the top of the head with a tight elastic. If you want, cover the elastic with a lock of hair: the result will be an easy-chic and modern look. Finally, don’t forget a touch of hairspray to keep it in place.

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High ponytail with ringlets

Now that the high or very high ponytail is easy as pie, take a curling wand and transform the look into a super romantic and sensual hairstyle for long hair. First, tie the hair as mentioned above, then work the ends to create a single ringlet to wear over the shoulder. Choose a medium diameter and, after applying a specific heat protection product, wrap the strand in a spiral around the tongs, wait a few moments, then open the tongs to release the hair and let it cool.

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Braided ponytail

If you love ponytails and braids, or want to keep difficult lengths in check, this is for you. The starting point is a simple ponytail, which can be lower or higher according to your mood. After tying the hair, make the braid: a more casual version can be the classic braid, perhaps made a little softer; if you want a more glamorous hairstyle, divide the lengths into two parts, apply a few drops of hair oil and twist each strand on itself, then proceed to weave them together.

Colour – treated hair – how to take care of it today, tomorrow and forever

Posted on by zonesuper

Choosing the right colour is only the first step. We tell you how to enhance your new hair colour so that it lasts for longer and stays healthy and glossy.

Colour-treated hair needs special care and treatment, especially at certain times of the year, such as the coldest and hottest seasons, or in times of heightened stress. Keeping colour-treated hair healthy, strong and shiny requires a few more tricks, but if you follow a few simple beauty rules, your hair will have glossy, radiant colour for longer.

Frequent washing is often thought to damage hair treated with artificial dyes and colourants but, although washing your hair no more than 2 or 3 times a week is best, even more frequent shampoos may not be harmful, as long as your hair routine follows some basic steps.

1. Colour-treated hair – best to cool cleanse

To take care of colour-treated hair, first of all, it is necessary to wash it with cold or lukewarm water, not hot water, which can be aggressive and can dry the hair, leaving it dull. The cool water, combined with products for colour-treated hair, help protect the colour, guaranteeing shine and lustre from roots to ends.
If during the winter you can’t do without a hot shower, at the end of your shower, cool rinse the hair to close the hair cuticles and make increase the absorption of the hair treatments within the hair.

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2. Colour-treated hair: best to cool dry  

Drying your hair right is another important step in maintaining colour-treated hair.  Step 1 is to gently pat your hair dry with a clean cotton towel. Immediately after, you can proceed with the hairdryer, but be careful that the hair is no longer dripping wet. The temperature of the hair dryer must remain medium-low, never exceed 70°C degrees. Better to use the dryer without the nozzle at first, so as not to disperse the heat and dry the hair evenly. Stressing the ends and lengths too much can over-dry the hair, which will then lack shine. The nozzle can be added at the end with the help of the brush, but never bring the hairdryer too close to the strands. However, experts recommend drying hair naturally rather than always using a hairdryer. Whenever possible, opt for a natural style (beach waves never go out of style).

3. Colour-treated hair: colour protection masks

Beautiful, healthy hair needs more than a shampoo and conditioner: hair masks make the difference. There are nourishing hair masks for dry and brittle hair, but also for normal, oily, curly and straight hair. Every type of colour-treated hair needs a beauty mask at least once a week (twice during the summer). The masks for colour-treated hair contain special active ingredients that have a deep action in the hair fibre, hydrating, thickening and regenerating hair that has been “emptied” by colouring and lightening treatments.

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4. Colour-treated hair: avoid heated styling tools

Curly red hair, ultra-straight blond hair, etc. In short, straighteners, curling tongs and more are always handy, but it is good to limit their use, especially for colour-treated hair. In particular, during the summer, with high temperatures, the sun, the sea or the pool, using straighteners or curling wands does nothing but stress the hair further, which dries the hair, leaving it dull. It is better to avoid harsh brushing, and rather use the old method of curlers to make a wavy style. You just need to curl some wet locks with your fingers, and pin them for a few hours. Or make one or two braids. If you want straight hair, you can use a round brush or comb.
In any case, the natural effect in summer will be even more captivating.

5. Colour-treated hair: protect it with scarves, hats and bandanas

When external aggressors increase in the summer and the need to take care of your hair becomes a primary necessity, protecting hair from the sun, sea, chlorine and sand is more difficult. But to avoid faded hair colour, you can wear trendy accessories that look amazing during the summer. Sporting a silk or cotton headband on the beach or even in town is a simple and glamorous way to protect your hair (and head) from the heat. Wide-brimmed straw hats make you feel like a real diva; bandanas tied at the nape of the neck for those who love the 50’s pin-up style; and again, ultra-chic triangular scarves fixed to the sides of the head with a few hairpins. The look ignites your personality, and your hair will love you all the more for it.

Take note: strengthen your hair, because it is always the right thing to do

Posted on by zonesuper

How can you strengthen your hair when it appears weak and damaged? Damage can happen for several reasons, for example with the change of season, or during a particularly stressful time when we may have even neglected our hair a little … To remedy this, we need to start taking care of it by treating it gently – which means limiting exposure to heated styling tools, avoiding keeping it tied for long periods of time and too tightly, limiting “stressful” treatments – to then apply more targeted strategies in your haircare routine, and beyond.

What can you eat to strengthen your hair?

A varied and balanced diet is important for the wellbeing of the whole body, from your toes to the roots of your hair. Hair has its superfoods too, foods with beneficial properties that seem to be made specifically to strengthen the hair. Cereals such as millet and brown rice, rich in vitamins, folic acid and biotin, but also legumes and spinach for their high iron and protein content. Pumpkin and sunflower seeds are among the seed oils richest in copper, selenium and zinc, considered to be some of the most useful minerals for strengthening hair. As for fruit and vegetables, citrus fruits, rich in vitamins C and A, keep hair hydrated, even during the winter, as well as blueberries, which are antioxidant and stimulate circulation. Avocado is good for the hair both as an omega 3 “supplement” in the diet, and as an ingredient for DIY masks and packs to strengthen hair.

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Strengthen the hair by massaging the scalp.

A good scalp massage is not only a pleasant and relaxing moment to dedicate to yourself but is also very useful to stimulate blood microcirculation of the scalp, and therefore to strengthen the hair. If there are no particular issues in the scalp, the massage can be done simply by putting slight pressure with delicate circular movements with the fingertips, spreading and squeezing the fingers, proceeding from the nape to the forehead, for a few minutes. If the hair is dry or the scalp is flaky, you can use this moment of massage to apply a nourishing oil such as argan oil by putting a few drops on your fingers before starting.

Which products strengthen the hair?

Haircare products play a key role. From shampoo to styling, it is necessary to choose formulas designed to nourish the hair and strengthen its structure. Natural oils such as Argan are among the most effective ingredients for this purpose.

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Does cutting your hair really make it stronger?

When hair appears weak and brittle, giving it a cut is always one of the first solutions you think of to strengthen your hair, but does it affect the hair’s health? It seems that this is a false myth, fuelled by the fact that freshly cut hair appears stronger and thicker, having removed the part of the hair that, by nature, is thinner and weaker. In the case of split ends or very damaged lengths, this optical illusion will be even more evident after cutting the hair. In reality, however, cutting the ends of the hair (which has exhausted its vital phase) does not affect its growth cycle, which starts from the follicle and is mainly genetic.

Brown hair that’s never dull! The charm of Mediterranean hair colours.

Posted on by zonesuper

How to enhance all shades of brown, when to lighten and when to blend, all the best products for people with dark hair.

Brown hair is one of the most popular shades in the Mediterranean area, a true status symbol of Italian women. But how can you show-off brown hair, and how do you choose the right shade for your complexion? In fact, brown hair can often appear dull, matte, especially in certain periods of the year, such as the summer season, because the sun, the sea and chlorine fade dark tones. No fear! Here we recommend the best strategies to keep your brown hair shiny.

Brown hair, dark complexion, dark eyes.

You have naturally dark hair, dark eyes and olive skin. Great, you are a beautiful Mediterranean woman. To give light to the hair and face, we recommend caramel, intense coffee, dark chocolate or even plum tones.

On the other hand, it’s an absolute no to bleaching, which stresses the hair too much and makes it lose its elasticity. Yes to shampoos and conditioners that enhance the colour of the hair.

Brown hair, fair complexion, light eye colour.

Rosy skin, blue or green eyes and light brown hair. It is necessary to enhance the natural honey shades and give character to the face. The shades for brown hair that are suitable for you are: chestnut or hazelnut, the undertones of amber and gold, and finally the coppery tones.

It often happens that brown hair is seen as being “trivial”, or too simple. Nothing could be more wrong: chocolate hair can take on great charm thanks to the tones of the shaded colour, but also with the right cut. The haircuts to enhance dark hair, in all shades, are undoubtedly bold bobs, long bobs and shaded pixie cuts (perfect here with lighter tones on the tips).

Brown hair, porcelain skin, dark eyes.

The ideal brown tone for women with a diaphanous complexion is dark. Yes, because the very light skin combined with very dark hair gives a captivating contrast to the face, making it interesting and feminine. Better to avoid red tones of copper, mahogany or caramel. The dark brown enhances cold complexions to perfection, so it’s a green light for all the more intense brown shades: dark chocolate, mocha, broux and in some cases purple tones.

In short, never a dull moment with brown hair! After all, it’s a safe colour worn by many stars, such as Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, Eva Longoria, Penelope Cruz… And the plus is that brown shades last longer than blond or red shades. Beautiful, practical, timeless: long live brown hair!

Love is in the (h)air! Romantic hairdos for Valentine’s day

Posted on by Valentina Olgiati

How to create hairstyles suitable for romantic looks to celebrate Valentine’s day.

Braids, waves, buns: romantic hairstyles are united by a single stylistic code, which we could summarize in the word softness. Softness, curves and delicate lines create an iconographic romantic image. In the era of Romanticism, female hair was a riot of curls, because rounded shapes were considered an attribute of beauty. But let’s also think of Botticelli’s Venus and her long golden hair: beautiful harmonious waves that fly in the wind and that evoke a feminine and romantic image.

In short, although straight hair emanates a très chic allure, wavy and curly hair is more suitable for a romantic occasion. Here we present the perfect Valentine’s Day hairstyles to enhance your natural charm.

Romantic hairdos for Valentine’s day: the soft side braid.

Braids are loved by every woman: we wore them all as little girls, and we also adore them as adults. It must be because of their versatility: so simple, so comfortable and also so elegant. If you don’t know how to style your hair for a Valentine’s Day date, if you don’t have a lot of time and you don’t feel capable of creating the most elaborate hairstyles, don’t worry: go for a soft (indeed very soft) side braid. Et voilà.

The z.one concept ™ expert’s advice: for an even softer and lighter effect, leave the fringe free, do not include it in the braid. And finally, tousle a few small locks of hair behind and near the temples: the face will be framed in a natural and delicate look.

Romantic hairdos for Valentine’s day:  the low messy bun.

For a candlelit dinner: a touch of lipstick, a low and soft bun and your favourite perfume. You don’t need anything else to seduce your partner. The low bun with a dishevelled effect is a timeless romantic hairstyle, and transcends trends and fashion. It can be worn with a side quiff, bangs or a fringe, and it looks really good on any face shape.

How to make a low and dishevelled bun: the strands are arranged randomly with the help of a few hairpins or small clips, the front ones are left free to better frame the face. If you have very long hair, you can also use an elastic for the front, but remember that the winning effect is natural, as if you had tied your hair without thinking about it too much. After all, spontaneity is very romantic.

Romantic hairdos for Valentine’s day: loose wavy hair and a centre parting.

Who said that a romantic hairstyle is only worn up? Soft waves left free on the shoulders are an excellent solution for a first date or Valentine’s Day dinner. Loose and wavy hair is a clear sign of femininity: it seems to say “I am like this, sincere and free. Love me!”.

Especially if you have long hair beyond the shoulders, we recommend that you opt for this simple and effective hairstyle, because your hair will surely look amazing. Dab wet hair with a cotton towel, use a detangling and illuminating spray, then give it a first blow-dry. You can create soft waves with either a hairdryer and a rounded brush (remember not to pull the hair too much, to avoid breakage) or with straighteners with a wide base plate. Whatever your preference, switch from larger strands behind the nape to smaller strands in front, sliding the hair down through the straightener or wrapping it around the iron.

The z.one concept ™ expert tip: part the hair in the middle rather than at the side. It is a much less obvious choice and one that will allow “your Valentine” to focus on your gaze.

Romantic hairdos for Valentine’s day: updo with a crown braid.

If you are undecided between braids and buns, opt for both! A feminine and vaguely retro hairstyle is the one that sees the face framed by a crown braid, and an ultra-soft and full bun, kept low and central. This is certainly a more elaborate hairstyle, suitable for those with a certain manual ability, but if you don’t feel prepared enough, don’t despair, we will give you the right advice.

Take a medium sized strand (about 2-3 centimetres) from the right side of the face, and start making a small braid. As you go forward, insert portions of hair into the braid that follow the contour of the head, up to the opposite side. Secure the braid at the back of the neck with bobby pins. Now let’s move on to the bun – or chignon. Divide your hair into three large sections, then twist the first one around the third, and pull the second in the middle. Using a pointed comb, tuck your hair well in the middle, then take all the strands back and join them together by wrapping them around this bun. Close the hairstyle with bobby pins or small clips. The effect must be soft, so if some locks “escape”, leave them loose.

Romantic hairdos for Valentine’s day: a half-updo with ponytail.

If you are not the type for braids or buns, but still want to collect your hair, you can be inspired by a very simple and very fashionable hairstyle, which even the Duchess of Cambridge showed off on public occasions. A small ponytail that collects only a portion of hair, freeing the face, and soft natural waves. Very easy, fast and very effective. Do not tighten the elastic too much, let the semi-ponytail be just hinted at, soft and not pulled.

The z.one concept ™ expert tip: you can enrich your romantic semi-collected hairstyle with a refined elastic, such as a velvet, satin or taffeta scrunchie. Or add a flower to crown the little ponytail.

Romantic hairdos for Valentine’s day: the fishtail braid.

If you have very long hair, the ideal Valentine’s Day hairstyle is a fishtail braid (or herringbone braid). Elegant, refined, suitable for longer and fuller hair. You can wear it central or to one side, but always soft and almost dishevelled.

How to make the fishtail braid. First, carefully comb your hair, it is important that there are no knots. To make it easier for you, we recommend that you gather your hair in a ponytail (high, low or sideways). Divide this ponytail into two parts: from the right side take a small lock and pass it over the main one. Now join it to the left strand. Follow the same procedure on the left side of the lock: take a small lock from the outside and bring it over the part of hair from which you took it, to join it with the large right lock.

The z.one concept ™ expert’s advice: once the braid is finished, extract a few small strands with your fingers, soften it by messing it up. If you have a side fringe, put a dab of illuminating hair oil in the palm of your hands, and gently pat the portion of hair around the nape of the neck, in order to make it softer and romantic.

Happy Valentine’s!

How to choose the right hairdresser (and keep them for life)?

Posted on by zonesuper

A quick guide to the signs that make you understand that you have found your hair’s soul mate.

Half artist, half craftsman, always patient and, if necessary, with a dash of comforting psychologist skills … The hairdresser is all this and much more. That’s why the question on how to choose the right hairdresser is a far from trivial! It’s not always possible to have the good fortune of “inheriting” your mother’s hairdresser, so it may be that you have to go around different salons before you find that magic spark. However, there are some signs that can help you recognize it, without a shadow of a doubt.

From the first time you step into the salon, you immediately feel at ease, as if you were “at home”. You feel in tune with the environment, you are happy to return the smiles that are shone your way and you don’t hold back if someone wants to chat. This is an important detail that should not be overlooked.

When you go back to the salon for the second, third, fourth time, you are intrigued by the hair products that are used in the salon and you want to discover all the services they offer, as well as colours, cuts and styles. You may not try them all, but you are curious about the hairdresser’s work and everything they could do to improve the health and appearance of your hair even more.

When wondering how to choose the right hairdresser, pay attention to your feelings. If you have found “the one”, you’ll understand it from their touch, from their kindness: it is not a question of simple politeness or marketing strategies, but of true empathy that immediately stirs between you.

You also like their staff. Precisely because you trust your hairdresser you know that they choose very good staff, so if for once they aren’t there and cannot perform their magical cut, you are sure that even the staff who work with them will make you look beautiful.

When you go to the wash unit, your hairdresser or their staff, will massage your scalp just the way you like it to ensure that you relax, and for a few minutes you feel as though you’re in another world. Because it is important to feel pampered and relaxed when you go to the hairdresser.

They use quality hair products specific to your needs. From the very first time they understand what you and your hair need and always remember the products and treatments to do just for you.

They listen discreetly, they understand when you want to hear some chit-chat and news from them (and they know how say it clearly), and when they should simply remain silent instead.

They have a positive attitude, they always see the glass half full, and since good humour is contagious, going to the salon not only makes you more beautiful but also puts you in a good mood. Another important sign that you’ve chosen the right hairdresser.

They have figured out how to enhance your hair and your face. When you bring them the photo of the celeb of the moment, they know how to make you unique by adapting the cut or colour you want to show off to your features.

They are sincere, patient, and in their salon, they know how to make you feel pampered. They are always ready to offer a coffee or a cold drink, a manicure if necessary, and you often meet other nice customers to broaden your acquaintances.

Why sunflowers are good for you (and your hair)

Posted on by Valentina Olgiati

The meaning of the sunflower revolves around the concept of light, cheerfulness, energy and vitality. In one word: sunshine. From July to September, when it is in full bloom, its round shape and the bright colour of the petals are reminiscent of the sun. The name itself bears the mark of this close relationship: not only sunflower in Italian, tournesol in French, Sonnenblume in German and sunflower in English, but also Helianthus annuus, its Latin botanical name, derives from the Greek words helios, sun, and anthos, flower.

The constant tension towards light has inspired art and imagination, from ancient times to the present day.

Greek mythology tells the tale of the nymph Clizia, who, madly in love with the god Apollo, could not help but observe him driving the chariot of the sun across the sky from east to west, without ever losing sight of him. After 9 days spent following her beloved with her eyes, she was finally transformed into the sunflower, which orients its face towards the sun just like the nymph did. Ovid tells this story in the Metamorphoses, concluding that “although held back by the roots, she always turns towards her Sun, and so still holds her love for him”. Over the centuries the ascendancy of the sunflower has influenced art in various forms, from Van Gogh’s painting to Montale’s poetry.

Science hasn’t been immune to the sunflower’s charm.

The sun is essential for plants, which must endure marked variations in light and heat over the course of 24 hours. Orienting itself towards the sun, the sunflower naturally exposes itself to greater radiation than other flowers. For this reason, nature has endowed its seeds with a particularly strong protection system to guarantee the future of the species: the specific function of the seeds is in fact to survive in unfavorable conditions and propagate the plant without harmful biochemical alterations.

The sunflower, native to the sunny regions of America and already a food source for the natives of North and South America, is now grown in all tropical and temperate regions essentially for its oil, which is obtained by cold pressing of the seeds. In cosmetics, sunflower oil is a good emollient and nourishing ingredient due to its richness in unsaturated fatty acids. The floury residue of the seeds that remains after separating the oily component is rich in proteins, minerals and active substances important for the protection of the plant from the sun: it is from this component that Integrity 41® is obtained, a registered trademark of z.one conceptTM, for the special hydro-glycolic sunflower extract rich in antioxidant polyphenols, so named for its protection from stress factors that threaten the integrity of the hair.

What are the stress factors that can affect hair?

The UV rays of the sun combined with pollution, wind, chemical treatments, combing, brushing and heated tools are all potential aggressors capable of attacking the hair on 4 levels:

• breaking-down of pigments: hair contains melanin, responsible for hair colour and the natural mechanism of protection from free radicals. When sun exposure is excessive, there is a point where melanin alone is no longer sufficient to ensure adequate protection and what occurs is photo-degradation, resulting in lightening and fading of both natural and cosmetic colour;

• alteration of proteins and in particular of keratin, with increased porosity and loss of smoothness and brightness of the hair which thus becomes rough, brittle, dull and prone to split ends;

• decrease in water content, with a consequent tendency to dryness and brittleness;

• oxidation of lipids, with loss of flexibility, weakening of the hair shaft and difficulty in styling.

How does Integrity 41® work?

From the scientific studies carried out on Integrity 41® sunflower seed extract, 2 fundamental properties emerge:

• a marked repairing action against damage caused by mechanical and chemical stress, directly or indirectly linked to the sun;

• a specific protective function, to prevent the loss of cosmetic pigments caused by daily exposure to environmental factors including UV rays and following repeated washing.

Thanks to its content in antioxidant polyphenols, already essential for the protection of the seeds of the flower, Integrity 41® has a strong anti-free radical activity: this means that the sunflower extract captures the reactive kind of free radicals and acts as a “bodyguard” for the hair, and it is this property that makes it an ingredient of choice for preventing and repairing damage from sun exposure or due to aggressive shampoos. Integrity 41® is ideal for all hair types, and is particularly suitable for the protection of colour-treated hair, for which the risk of colour-fading increases with increased washing and in response to the effects of sunlight.

This is why we have chosen Integrity 41® as a star ingredient across many lines of the milk_shake® brand: it is found in our best-selling whipped cream and in numerous shampoos, conditioners, leave-in conditioners, styling products and colours. In all these formulations it helps to repair, protect colour and ensure a healthy and vital appearance of the hair.

Integrity 41® comes from a flower that is the quintessence of sunshine, it is an ingredient that actively repairs and protects the hair, giving it a radiant appearance and an extraordinarily vibrant colour, for longer.

IN SUMMARY:

• in the sunflower, the charm of this flower that rotates follows the sun is associated with a particularly effective natural protection system of the seeds;

• the extract of the seeds is rich in antioxidant polyphenols that are effective in protecting against stress factors that threaten the integrity of the hair;

• Integrity 41® is the ingredient of choice in milk_shake® to repair and protect hair colour.

Ban frizz for good: efficient remedies for rebellious hair.

Posted on by zonesuper

In the salon, at home and when you’re out and about, here are the strategies to finally free yourself of frizz.

Straight, curly or wavy: when it comes to frizzy hair, what matters is not so much the texture of the hair but rather the hair’s condition. In fact, frizz is mainly caused by a lack of hydration in the hair, which may depend on a careless haircare routine, frequent use of heated styling tools, repeated chemical treatments, but also a natural predisposition of the hair. When there is a lack of hydration, the outermost part of the hair, the cuticle, opens, creating that messy effect, typical of frizzy hair. And to top it off, when the climate is very humid, the hair fibre tends to get even frizzier. That’s why the thought of how to tackle frizzy hair affects everyone, from when the weather announces a chance of rain on the day we would like to look our best, to when we (finally!) learn how to make our hair look perfect with straighteners. When it comes to frizzy hair, remedies and solutions almost always have to do with maintaining the right hydration within the hair fibre.

In-salon treatments to avoid frizz.

To get to the root of the problem, we can rely on the expert hands of our trusted hairdresser. z.one concept™ salons offer different treatments for frizzy hair to adapt to the needs of all hair types, from the most curly and rebellious to those that just need more definition. All treatments are designed to eliminate frizz without changing the natural structure of the hair, just by acting on the hair’s shape. Straight hair or perfect waves, manageability or vitality: which will be the perfect treatment for your hair?

Frizzy hair: what to do at home.

The use of products for frizzy hair that are specific to maintain hydration without weighing the hair down, comes into play during the haircare routine at home. In order to maintain the results of salon treatments for longer, the milk_shake® k-respect product line was created, consisting of shampoo, conditioner and a protective smoothing spray. All three of these products for frizzy hair are based on hydrolyzed keratin, which acts by integrating the hair fibre, and contain precious natural and organic moisturizers such as babassu oil, which replenishes the lipid component of the hair, buriti oil, particularly rich in vitamin A, and muru muru butter, which waterproofs the cuticle by counteracting the absorption of moisture.

When washing your hair, in addition to using a specific shampoo, it is important to avoid using hot water which could dry out the hair shaft. And how should you dry frizzy hair? By limiting stress to the hair, i.e. long exposure to heat sources, is the general rule (for all hair types, in fact). An effective way to do this is to wrap wet hair in a towel and wait a few minutes before turning on the hairdryer, so that excess moisture is absorbed by the fabric and drying with a hairdryer is thus much faster.

The remedies for frizzy hair are also simple gestures of daily life that go from nutrition to the… sleep! In fact, to hydrate the hair from the inside right to the tips of the lengths, it is important that your diet includes the right portions of fruit and vegetables, the foods that have a higher water content, in addition to the proverbial 2 litres of water a day. As for the pillow, on the other hand, sleeping with your head resting on a linen or cotton pillowcase involves friction that can cause frizz. To avoid this, silk pillowcases or wrap the hair in a silk scarf before going to sleep.

Frizzy hair: what to do when out and about.

If we go swimming in the pool, or the sea, after each swim it is good to remember to rinse your hair with fresh water to remove chlorine or salt, which tend to dry the hair and open the cuticles.
Applying a specific protective product after washing is an additional anti-frizz guarantee.

Braids, new inspiration for a timeless love.

Posted on by Valentina Olgiati

From ceremonies to the most casual occasions, braided hairlooks are always a good choice – here you will find some advice on how to create them, such as classic, French, or fishtail braids…

Braids galore! Classic or fishtail, Dutch or French … braided hairstyles can be reinvented in a thousand ways and, for this reason, they never go out of style. If the classic braid is a passepartout for more casual occasions, the French and Dutch braids have a timeless charm, while the fishtail braid is more glamorous and fashionable. In short, there are hairstyles for hair with braids suitable for every look and every occasion, from the most casual to the most important ceremonies. In general, however, a successful hairstyle requires long hair without too many layers, and thick enough hair to give volume to the braids. If the hair is medium or short, with a little creativity you can still create hairstyles with beautiful and original braids. If, on the other hand, the hair is fine, it should be treated with texturizing products to give body to the lengths.

We love them so much that we have dedicated a special place in our salons to braids: the milk_shake® braid bar, with a menu of hairstyles that can be created in 15-35 minutes by specialized hairstylists. If you love braids too, you won’t be able to do without them!

French or Dutch braids.

French and Dutch braids are both classic and modern hairstyles. In both cases, the braid starts from the top of the head and collects all the hair up to the nape, and then continues as a classic braid until the end of the lengths. The main difference between the two lies precisely in the way the hair is braided: from the top for the French version, from the bottom to the top for the Dutch version.

The Dutch braid is back with the trend of boxer braids, the hairstyle with two braids sported by boxers in the gym and in the ring. Perfect for sporty-inspired looks, they also go well with more urban outfits; enriched with bows, ribbons, rhinestones or small clasps, they can also give a modern touch to more classic or bon ton looks, creating an interesting contrast.

Side braids.

Side braids are also particularly good for soft and romantic hairstyles. Making them is simple because in this case, any imperfection is not a defect, on the contrary, a slight dishevelled effect with a few strands that escape the braid will make the look even more glamorous. Here’s how to do it: comb your hair to eliminate knots and bring the hair to one side, near the ear, then start braiding the strands and finally finish off the braid with an elastic. To add volume to the lengths, loosen the braid slightly by pulling the strands outwards with your fingers.

A beautiful variant for hairstyles with side braids is the fishtail braid, a hairstyle with a boho-chic flavour that adapts to the most romantic looks, but also to the most elegant occasions. To achieve it, the hair is divided into two sections and braided gradually by bringing two strands from the outside to the inside, obtaining a flat braid.