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Hair, braids, nails & barber tips

The Alexa's blog

Real answers from our stylists to the questions clients ask us every day.

Dominican blowout with soft waves at Alexa's Dominican Salon

Dominican blowout vs. silk press: what's the difference?

Both give you smooth, shiny hair without chemicals, but the technique and the finish are different. Here's how to choose.

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Long smooth hair after a keratin smoothing treatment

Keratin treatment: how long it lasts, aftercare and who it's for

Less frizz, faster blow dries and shine for months. Here's what to expect from a keratin treatment and how to care for it.

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Long voluminous curls with highlights

Hair extensions guide: sew-in, cost, how long they last and care

Length and volume without waiting years. What to know about sew-in extensions before your appointment.

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Smooth layered hair after a blowout

How to wrap your hair at night (doobie wrap) to keep your blowout

The five-minute habit that keeps your blowout smooth for days. A simple step-by-step guide.

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Neat stitch braids seen from the back

How to make your braids last longer: 8 tips from our braiders

Keep your knotless, box braids and cornrows looking fresh for weeks with these simple habits.

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Zigzag part cornrow braids from above

How to prepare for your braid appointment (checklist)

A simple checklist so your appointment is faster and your braids come out exactly how you want.

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Square French manicure nails

Gel vs. acrylic vs. dip powder nails: which one is best for you?

How each one is done, how long it lasts and how it's removed, so you can choose with confidence.

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Men's manicure and grooming service

Men's manicure and pedicure: what to expect (and why more men get them)

Clean, natural hands and healthy feet, no polish required. Here's what a men's mani-pedi includes.

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Skin fade with hard part and beard at Alexa's Salon Barber Shop

Skin fade vs. taper fade: what's the difference and what to ask your barber

Low, mid, high, skin or taper: the differences explained, and the exact words to use in the chair.

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Taper fade with slicked-back hair and beard

How often should men get a haircut? A guide by style

Fades, tapers, longer cuts and beards: how often to come back so your cut always looks fresh.

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Full beard with clean lines and curly fade

Beard care: 7 tips for a clean, full beard

Wash, moisturize, shape and avoid razor bumps: simple habits for a beard that always looks sharp.

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Kids fade haircut seen from behind in the barber chair

Your child's first haircut at the barber shop: 7 tips for a calm visit

How to prepare your little one so the first visit is fun, calm and fast.

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Smooth silk press on long hair

How long does a silk press last? (And how to make it last longer)

Most silk presses last one to two weeks. Here's what shortens that time, and the simple habits that help it last longer.

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Braided style seen from the side

Knotless vs. box braids: which one is right for you?

Both are protective styles, but they start differently at the root. Here's how they compare in look, comfort and care.

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