There’s no better time than May to breathe new life into your style — and at Carl Michael Salon, we’re here to make sure you step into the sunny season with confidence, radiance, and flawless hair. Whether you’re craving a major transformation or just a healthy refresh, spring is the perfect season to invest in your look.

Here’s why you should book your hair appointment in North Reading or Danvers now and how we can help you bloom this season!

1. May Is the Month of Renewal

As nature starts to bloom, so should you. May is a natural time of transition — lighter wardrobes, brighter days, and a renewed focus on self-care. Your hair is a huge part of that feeling! A fresh haircut, vibrant color service, or gloss treatment can instantly lift your mood and refresh your entire appearance.

At Carl Michael Salon, we specialize in transformations, from subtle enhancements to full makeovers. Whether you’re looking for a trendy layered cut, a soft balayage, or a rich dimensional brunette, our expert stylists are ready to create a custom look just for you.

2. Summer Hair Prep Starts Now

Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and, unfortunately, a lot of stress to your strands — UV rays, humidity, saltwater, and chlorine can all wreak havoc on your hair’s health.

As the flowers bloom and the sun shines brighter, it's the perfect time to refresh your look and embrace the latest hair trends of the season. At Carl Michael Salon, we understand the importance of staying current and stylish, which is why we've curated a list of the top hair trends that you need to try this spring.

1. Balayage Bliss: Say goodbye to harsh lines and hello to seamless blends with balayage coloring. This timeless technique adds dimension and depth to your hair, creating a sun-kissed effect that is perfect for the warmer months. Our expert stylists at Carl Michael Salon are masters at creating the perfect balayage look that complements your skin tone and personal style.

2. Bob Revival: The classic bob hairstyle is making a major comeback this spring. Whether you opt for a sleek and straight bob or a textured and tousled lob, this versatile cut is sure to turn heads. Trust the skilled hands of our stylists at Carl Michael Salon to tailor the bob to suit your face shape and desired length.

3. Pastel Perfection: Embrace your inner unicorn with pastel hair colors that scream springtime chic. From soft lavender to delicate rose gold, pastel hues are a fun and whimsical way to add a pop of color to your hair. Our color experts at Carl Michael Salon can create a customized pastel shade that suits your personality and elevates your style.

As the excitement for baseball season kicks off, Red Sox fans are gearing up for the perfect game-day experience! Whether you're heading to Fenway Park or hosting a watch party at home, looking your best is a must. At Carl Michael Salon, we're here to help you achieve effortless hairstyles that will keep you stylish while cheering on your favorite team. In this blog post, we'll share some easy hairstyles that you can create using the right products, and how our current promotion—buy 3 products, get your name entered to win Red Sox tickets—can help you gear up for the season.

1. The Classic Messy Bun

The classic messy bun is the go-to hairstyle for any baseball fan. It’s chic, effortless, and perfect for warmer spring weather! To achieve this look:

- Start with clean, dry hair and apply a texturizing spray for that effortless, tousled feel. Products like sea salt spray or volumizing mousse can give you that perfect texture.

- Pull your hair into a high ponytail, then twist the ponytail around itself to create a bun. Secure it with a hair tie or bobby pins.

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a gorgeous hairstyle from Carl Michael Salon? Whether you have a romantic date night planned or just want to treat yourself to a special look, our team of expert stylists is here to help you achieve the perfect Valentine's Day hairstyle. In this blog post, we will be sharing 5 romantic hairstyles that are sure to make you look and feel fabulous this February.

1. The Classic Romantic Updo

The classic romantic updo is a timeless hairstyle that never goes out of style. This elegant and sophisticated look is perfect for a romantic evening out or a special event. Our stylists at Carl Michael Salon can create a customized updo that complements your face shape and personal style. Add some soft curls or braids for a romantic touch, and you'll be sure to turn heads wherever you go.

2. Soft and Romantic Waves

Soft, loose waves are a popular hairstyle choice for Valentine's Day. This effortlessly chic look is perfect for a more casual date night or a romantic evening in. Our stylists can create beautiful, natural-looking waves that will enhance your overall look and make you feel confident and beautiful. Add a floral accessory or a sparkly hairpin for an extra touch of romance.

As we welcome the new year, it's the perfect time to refresh your look and embrace new hair trends. At Carl Michael Salon on the North Shore of Massachusetts, we are excited to help you achieve your hair goals for 2025. In this blog post, we'll explore the latest trendy hairstyles and haircuts to inspire your new year transformation.

1. The Blunt Bob:

The blunt bob continues to be a popular choice for those looking for a chic and modern hairstyle. This timeless cut offers a sleek and sophisticated look that can be customized to suit your face shape and style. At Carl Michael Salon, our expert stylists can create a flawless blunt bob that complements your features and enhances your overall look.

2. Curtain Bangs:

Curtain bangs are making a comeback in 2025, adding a soft and romantic touch to any hairstyle. These face-framing fringe layers can instantly elevate your look and add dimension to your hair. Whether you prefer a subtle or bold curtain bang style, our stylists at Carl Michael Salon can tailor the look to suit your preferences and enhance your natural beauty.

As the temperatures drop on the North Shore of Massachusetts, it's essential to adjust your haircare routine to combat the harsh effects of the cold weather. At Carl Michael Salon, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy and beautiful hair all year round. With our range of services and products tailored to your hair's needs, we're here to help you navigate the winter season with ease.

Tip #1: Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Just like your skin, your hair can become dry and brittle in the winter months. To combat this, it's crucial to keep your hair hydrated. Our salon offers a variety of moisturizing treatments, such as deep conditioning masks and hydrating hair oils, to nourish your strands from root to tip. Additionally, incorporating a hydrating shampoo and conditioner into your routine can help lock in moisture and prevent breakage.

As the holiday season approaches, it's the perfect time to start planning your Thanksgiving look, including your hairstyle. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or attending a festive gathering with friends, a stylish hairdo can elevate your overall appearance and boost your confidence. At Carl Michael Salon, we offer a wide range of services and products to help you achieve the perfect Thanksgiving hairstyle. Let's explore some trendy and elegant styles to inspire your holiday look.

Blowout Perfection:

One of the most popular options for the holiday season is a professional blowout. Our expert stylists at Carl Michael Salon can give your hair volume, shine, and bounce with a blowout that will last throughout the day. Whether you prefer loose beachy waves or a sleek and straight finish, a blowout is a versatile and sophisticated choice for Thanksgiving.

Glamorous Updos:

For a touch of glamour and elegance, consider opting for a chic updo. From classic buns to intricate braided styles, our skilled stylists can create a stunning updo that complements your outfit and highlights your features. An updo is a timeless and sophisticated choice for Thanksgiving celebrations, adding an extra touch of refinement to your look.

As the leaves turn vibrant shades of orange and red, and the air gets a bit crisper, it’s the perfect time for pumpkin picking. Whether you’re heading to a local farm or enjoying a festive outing, having the right hairstyle can elevate your look while keeping you comfortable. At Carl Michael Salon, we understand the importance of feeling your best while embracing the beauty of fall. Let’s explore some of the best hairstyles that are not only chic but practical for a day in the pumpkin patch!

1. The Effortless Bun

The effortless bun is a go-to hairstyle for those who want to keep their hair out of their face while looking effortlessly chic. This style is perfect for a busy day of pumpkin picking, allowing you to enjoy your outing without constantly adjusting your hair.

How to Achieve It:

• Start with second-day hair for added texture.
• Gather your hair at the nape of your neck and twist it into a loose bun.
• Secure with hairpins, allowing a few strands to frame your face for a softer look.

Products to Use: Use a texturizing spray or dry shampoo from our product line to add volume and grip before styling.

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisp, the world of hair fashion welcomes a fresh wave of trends perfect for the fall season. At Carl Michael Salon, located on the beautiful North Shore of Massachusetts, we are excited to share the most stylish hair trends for 2024. Whether you’re looking for a dramatic transformation or a subtle update, our expert stylists are here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s dive into the most captivating fall hair trends and how our salon can help you achieve the look you desire.

1. Rich, Vibrant Colors

This fall, bold and rich colors are taking center stage. Autumn is the perfect time to embrace hues that mirror the seasonal landscape, such as deep reds, warm browns, and vibrant coppers. Highlights and lowlights in rich tones can add depth and dimension to your hair, making it look more dynamic and alive.

At Carl Michael Salon, we offer a range of color services, including balayage and foiling techniques, to help you achieve the perfect fall look. Our skilled colorists are adept at selecting shades that complement your skin tone and enhance your natural beauty. Whether you desire a full color change or just a touch of highlights, we have the expertise to bring your vision to life.

As summer draws to a close and the crisp fall air begins to make its presence known, our hair also undergoes a transition. At Carl Michael Salon, we understand the importance of adapting your hair care routine to the changing seasons. Our expert stylists are here to guide you through this transition, ensuring your hair remains healthy, vibrant, and beautiful. We are here to share our essential tips for preparing your hair for fall, the best treatments and products available at Carl Michael Salon, and why this seasonal transition is crucial for maintaining gorgeous hair year-round.

Understanding the Impact of Seasonal Changes on Your Hair

Summer can be harsh on your hair. Prolonged exposure to the sun, saltwater, and chlorine can leave your hair dry, brittle, and prone to damage. As we move into fall, the cooler temperatures and reduced humidity can also affect your hair, leading to issues such as dryness and static. Transitioning your hair care routine is vital to address these seasonal challenges and maintain your hair’s health and vitality.

Summer is a season full of sunshine, beach days, and outdoor adventures. While these activities are great for the soul, they can be tough on your hair, especially if it’s color-treated. The combination of sun exposure, chlorine, and saltwater can lead to faded and dull hair color. At Carl Michael Salon, we understand the importance of maintaining vibrant hair color throughout the summer. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to keep your hair color looking fresh and vibrant all season long.

Protect Your Hair from the Sun

One of the primary culprits for faded hair color is sun exposure. The UV rays from the sun can break down the chemical bonds in hair dye, leading to fading and dryness. Here are some tips to protect your hair from the sun:

1. Wear a Hat: A wide-brimmed hat not only protects your face from the sun but also shields your hair from direct sunlight. This is a simple and stylish way to keep your hair color intact.

2. Use UV Protection Sprays: Invest in hair products that contain UV filters. These sprays create a protective barrier against the sun’s harmful rays. Look for products like the Redken Color Extend Sun Solar Screen SPF 12 which is highly recommended for sun protection.

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Looking for some fresh summer hair inspiration? Look no further! Whether you're heading to the beach, a summer festival, or just want a new look for the season, we've got you covered. Check out these trendy summer hair styles that will keep you looking cool and stylish all summer long.

1. Beachy Waves: Embrace your natural texture with effortless beachy waves. To achieve this look, simply spray some sea salt spray on damp hair and scrunch it up with your hands. Let it air dry for a carefree, tousled look that's perfect for a day at the beach.

2. Braided Updo: Keep your hair off your neck and out of your face with a chic braided updo. Whether you opt for a classic French braid, fishtail braid, or messy boho braid, this style is perfect for hot summer days and looks great with any outfit.

3. High Ponytail: Elevate your everyday ponytail by adding some height at the crown and wrapping a section of hair around the hair tie for a polished finish. This sleek and stylish look is perfect for a summer night out or a casual day of running errands.

4. Colorful Highlights: Add a pop of color to your hair with some fun and vibrant highlights. Whether you opt for pastel hues, bold neon shades, or natural-looking balayage, adding some color to your hair can instantly brighten up your look and add a fun, playful vibe to your summer style.

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your look, and one of the easiest ways to do that is by updating your hairstyle. This season, there are several trending hair looks that are taking the fashion world by storm. From chic bob cuts to vibrant hair colors, there is something for everyone to try. In this blog post, we will explore some of the hottest spring hair trends that you can rock this season.

1. Blunt Bob Cut: The blunt bob cut is a timeless hairstyle that is making a comeback this spring. This sleek and sophisticated look is perfect for those who want a low-maintenance style that still looks polished and put-together.

2. Curtain Bangs: Curtain bangs are soft, face-framing bangs that have been popularized by celebrities and influencers alike. This effortless style adds a touch of bohemian chic to any look and is perfect for those who want to change up their hairstyle without committing to a full fringe.

3. Pastel Hair Colors: Pastel hair colors are all the rage this spring, with shades like lavender, baby blue, and rose gold dominating the trend scene. Whether you opt for a full head of pastel hair or just a few subtle highlights, this trend is sure to make a statement.

Spring hairstyles are all about embracing the fresh and vibrant energy of the season. From soft waves to bold colors, there are a variety of trends to choose from. Some popular spring hairstyles include:

1. Beachy Waves: Effortless and tousled waves that give off a relaxed and carefree vibe, perfect for a day at the beach or a casual outing.

2. Pastel Colors: Soft and dreamy pastel shades like lavender, baby blue, and soft pink are popular choices for spring. These colors can add a touch of whimsy to your look.

3. Braided Styles: Braids are versatile and can be worn in various ways, such as a classic French braid, fishtail braid, or braided updo. They add a touch of elegance and femininity to any hairstyle.

4. Bob Haircuts: Short and chic bob haircuts are a timeless choice for spring. Whether you opt for a blunt bob, layered bob, or asymmetrical bob, this style is versatile and easy to maintain.

5. Flower Accessories: Adding floral accessories like flower crowns or hair clips can instantly elevate your spring hairstyle and add a touch of romance and whimsy.

Overall, spring hairstyles are all about embracing the beauty of the season and experimenting with fresh and playful looks. Whether you prefer a laid-back beachy style or a more polished and sophisticated look, there are endless options to choose from to suit your personal style.

Winter hair trends often focus on adding warmth and depth to the hair, as well as incorporating cozy and festive elements. Here are some popular winter hair trends:

1. Warm tones: During the winter months, many people opt for warmer hair colors to add richness and depth to their hair. Shades like chocolate brown, caramel, and auburn are popular choices.

2. Balayage with lowlights: Balayage is still a popular hair coloring technique, but during winter, it is often paired with lowlights. This creates a multidimensional look with darker shades woven throughout the hair.

3. Sleek and shiny: Smooth, shiny hair is a classic winter look. Straightened or sleek hairstyles are often seen during this season, as they give a polished and sophisticated appearance.

4. Textured bob: The bob haircut is versatile and can be adapted for winter by adding texture. Textured bobs with choppy layers or beachy waves give a modern and effortless look.

5. Accessorized hairstyles: Winter is a great time to incorporate accessories into your hairstyles. From cozy knit headbands to sparkly hairpins, adding accessories can elevate your look and add a festive touch.

The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to show your loved ones how much you care than by treating them to luxurious hair care products? Carl Michael Salon is here to help you find the perfect gifts that will make your friends and family feel pampered and special. With a wide range of high-quality products from renowned brands like Kerastase and Redken, you can't go wrong. Let's explore some fantastic holiday shopping ideas that will leave your loved ones with gorgeous, healthy hair all year round.

1. Kerastase: The Ultimate in Hair Care Luxury

Kerastase is a brand synonymous with luxury and innovation. Their products are designed to address various hair concerns and provide exceptional results. Here are a few Kerastase products that make excellent holiday gifts:

a) Kerastase Elixir Ultime Hair Oil: This multi-purpose hair oil is a true game-changer. It nourishes, protects, and adds shine to all hair types, leaving them looking and feeling healthier than ever.

b) Kerastase Resistance Extentioniste Hair Mask: Perfect for those with damaged or brittle hair, this intensive treatment helps to strengthen and fortify strands, promoting healthy hair growth and preventing breakage.

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisper, it's not just your wardrobe that deserves a seasonal update (can you say "sweater weather"?) Fall is the perfect time to experiment with new hairstyles and colors that complement the cozy vibes of the season. In 2023, we're seeing some exciting hair trends at Carl Michael Salon that are sure to elevate your autumn look. From warm and vibrant hues to unique textures and styles, let's dive into the top fall hair trends for 2023.

Rich Autumnal Hues

This fall, hair color trends are all about embracing the warm and earthy tones of the season. Think deep reds, fiery oranges, and rich browns reminiscent of falling leaves. Copper, cinnamon, and auburn shades are going to be particularly popular. These hues not only add warmth to your look but also pair perfectly with the season's fashion trends.

Spring is on its way, and if you are like us - you are really looking forward to a change this year. One of the best ways to change up your hair color is to invest in highlights. Think about it: you don’t have to deal with the commitment that comes with a full head of new, permanent color; and the maintenance can be so much easier. There is no better way to get a lived-in, sun-kissed look!

Of course, highlights can be executed in a myriad of ways, and if you’ve done any research or scanned Instagram looking for inspiration pictures, you’ve probably seen the phrases “foil highlights, balayage, foilayage, ombré and hand painted." With so many types of highlights out there - its impossible to figure them out on your own.

Enter the professionals at Carl Michael Salon and our new "Custom Highlight Package." We want to take the guesswork out of your next highlight appointment, while customizing a look that may require several different techniques. Custom highlights are our specialty here at Carl Michael, and instead of having a confusing, extensive color menu with varying prices that frankly don't make any sense, we offer a beautiful experience that will allow you and your stylist to collaborate on the perfect look!

Though a salon might not be the first place you think of for holiday shopping, Carl Michael Salons can help you cross a couple of friends & family off your list (with the benefit of shopping small!). We carry an assortment of hair care and styling brands, along with a selection of jewelry and accessories from our new salon boutique! And you can’t forget about our luxury service menu.

If you're looking for a product line that is vegan, sulfate-free and good for both people, animals and the planet - then Pureology is your go-to luxury brand. Our most popular shampoo and conditioner duo Hydrate features aromatherapy notes of ylang-ylang, bergamont and mint. Ask about our holiday gift sets featuring your favorite Pureology products.

Redken has also released fantastic gift sets for the holiday season! Their products have a cult following and are the perfect gift for a secret Santa, or the person that has everything. Who wouldn’t want the gift of great hair?

Shop our selection of curated jewelry and accessories at our Salon Boutique! Our grab and go gifts can be packaged as a gift bag - how easy is that?

Or treat yourself (hey, you can shop for yourself too!) and don't worry - we won't tell.

October FAQs from our Stylists: Hair Color

We took a survey among our stylists of the questions they encounter the most from their guests. Because if someone else has asked, likely another wants to know! Read on for a little Carl Michael Salon Q&A on hair color…

What is the difference between balayage and ombre? Holly F. @hollynnhair breaks it down, “balayage is a technique and ombre is a gradient of color. Balayage is when the color or lightener is hand-painted on to create natural, sun-kissed look with no obvious regrowth lines.”

I’m ready to go blonde, we can get that done in one appointment, right?

Maybe! It depends on how your hair has been colored previously. For example, if you have box dye in your hair, you will have to come in for multiple appointments for get to your desired goals. Stylist Kara J. @karahooverjohnson says, “With the first appointment, if unsure about how the hair will react, we would do a test strand to see how possible their hair goal is. After the test strand, we would be able to figure out how many appointments it would take to transform their hair into their desired goal, while keeping the integrity of their hair strong.”

Keratin is a protein found naturally in the hair. When hair is damaged physically, chemically, or from environmental factors such as the sun, keratin is depleted, leaving hair weak.

A keratin treatment is great for increasing manageability, leaving hair noticeably softer with luminous shine. It completely eliminates frizz by 100%, and reduces curl by about 80%, cutting styling time in half. It also repairs damage, creating healthier, stronger hair. If you have curly or wavy hair and like to blow it out straight most of the time, this treatment will change your life! It is a powerful humidity blocker, so even in the humid summer weather of New England, your hair will stay smooth and shiny.

Now, many people think this is a straightening treatment. It is not. Keratin treatments are strengthening, conditioning treatments that reduce curls, target weak spots, and reinforce the hairs structure. It acts as both an external protective shield and an internal structural protein. Here at Carl Michael Salon, it is done by a keratin-certified professional hair stylist. Your hair will be shampooed with a clarifying shampoo and dried, the product is then applied carefully with a brush and dried into the hair. It will then be straightened with a flat iron in small sections. The entire treatment takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the length and thickness of your hair, and lasts up to 5 months. For only about $13 dollars a week you can have gorgeous, smooth, shiny hair all summer! You will be instructed not to wash your hair or even get it wet for about 3 days. The product needs time to do its thing. You will also need to use only sulfate and sodium chloride-free shampoo and styling products to ensure your treatment lasts as long as possible. We recommend Kérastase's Discipline line of hair care products. It is color-safe and sulfate-free.

Are you looking for those natural highlights you had as a kid? Balayage is what you are looking for. Balayage makes you look like you just returned from a two-week summer vacation on the Cape or the Maine Coast. Balayage says, "I have great hair" - but in a way that's subtle yet noticeable — not flashy and obvious. At Carl Michael Salon, we made it easy for you to enjoy perfect hair year round for just pennies a day. Introducing our new Balayage Package and Balayage Maintenance Package!

Every balayage is different and completely customizable: the placement, gradation, and tone is based on your hair color, texture, and length, and desired shade- this means it is personalized for each guest.

Our custom highlights are what we are known for - and now we have taken the guesswork out of your custom highlights. Our Balayage Package includes custom highlights (hand painted, foils or both), a custom overlay to achieve your perfect shade of highlight, our new Acidic Bonding Treatment especially formulated to protect the integrity of your highlights, a haircut and our signature blowout for the perfect finish.

To maintain your highlights, we recommend coming in after six weeks for our Balayage Maintenance Package. This package includes a refresh of your custom overlay, a customized hair repair treatment, a bang trim and our signature blowout.