First-Time Hair Color: From Virgin Hair to Highlighted Beauty

Getting color for the first time is exciting — and a little nerve-wracking. When a guest comes in with virgin hair and zero color history, the possibilities are wide open. At Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ, we love first-time color appointments because the hair is in its healthiest, most responsive state — and the canvas is entirely fresh.

Guest Profile: Alyssa’s First Color Appointment

Alyssa had never colored her hair before. Her natural level was a 6, with some natural lighter pieces around the face and ends — hints of level 8 that the sun had created over the summer. Her eyes were a pale blue tone, which made a neutral, cool blonde highlight direction a natural fit. For a first-time color guest, the goal is almost always to enhance what is already there rather than to create something dramatic.

The Approach: Soft, Strategic Highlights

Because this was Alyssa’s first color experience and she wasn’t a frequent salon visitor, the stylist designed the service with longevity in mind — creating a look that would grow out gracefully without requiring constant maintenance. The technique combined sliced highlights painted on the outside of each section with micro weaves worked in between. Staying away from the root on a first-time color guest allows new growth to blend naturally rather than creating an obvious line of demarcation after just a few weeks.

On the outside of each section, the stylist painted highlights and merged them at the mid-shaft, then covered the top layer of the section with lightener. Between the slices, micro weaves were added to break up the placement and create diffusion — so the blonde appears soft and dimensional rather than chunky or uniform. The technique creates a result that looks like the hair has been naturally kissed by the sun, which is exactly what a first-time color should feel like.

The Result

Alyssa’s final result was a soft, cool blonde with bright pearly blonde pieces framing the face. Her cut was freshened with a quarter-inch trim and point-cut layers to complement the new color. She left her first color appointment genuinely happy — which is always the goal, but especially meaningful for a guest who had never taken the leap before.

If you are thinking about getting color for the first time, a consultation at Aurelio Salon is the best place to start. Our colorists will assess your natural hair, discuss your goals, and build a plan that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences. Visit our women’s hair coloring page, browse our stylist gallery, or check out our new client deals.

Call 732-303-0052 to book your first color consultation at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

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How to Banish Brassiness from Blonde Hair

If your blonde hair has been looking more orange or yellow than you’d like between appointments, you’re not alone. Brassiness is one of the most common concerns our colorists hear about at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ — and fortunately, it is one of the most fixable. Here’s why it happens and what you can do about it.

Why Does Blonde Hair Go Brassy?

Hair color is made up of three primary pigments — blue, red, and yellow. When hair is lightened, the blue pigment fades first. Without blue in the mix, the remaining red and yellow pigments create that warm, orange, or golden tone that most blondes recognize as brassiness. It is a natural result of the lightening process, and it gets more pronounced over time without proper maintenance.

Use a Purple or Blue Toning Shampoo

The most effective at-home tool for fighting brassiness is a professional purple or blue-based toning shampoo and conditioner. Purple and blue pigments sit opposite yellow and orange on the color wheel, which means they neutralize warm tones every time you wash. Goldwell’s Dualsenses Blondes & Highlights shampoo and conditioner is one of our favorites — it has an indigo base that neutralizes yellow tones, delivers regenerative care, and leaves blonde hair smooth and shiny. For extra toning on particularly brassy hair, leave the conditioner on for 10–15 minutes rather than rinsing right away.

Watch Out for Hard Water and Minerals

One factor many blondes overlook is water quality. Mineral water, well water, and hard water all contain iron and other minerals that deposit on the hair and push the color warmer over time. If you’ve noticed your blonde going brassy faster than expected even with toning shampoo, water quality may be a contributing factor. Ask your stylist about a professional clarifying treatment or chelating shampoo that removes mineral buildup.

Protect Against Heat and UV

Heat styling without protection and sun exposure both accelerate brassiness. A professional heat protectant used before every blow-dry, flat iron, or curling iron session prevents heat from breaking down color molecules. And a UV-protective leave-in product or wearing a hat outdoors helps prevent the sun from bleaching out your toner between appointments.

Schedule a Gloss or Toning Service

If your blonde has gone significantly warm between appointments, an in-salon toning gloss is one of the quickest ways to restore cool, fresh tone without a full color service. A gloss takes about 20 minutes, adds incredible shine, and refreshes your blonde back to the tone you want. Ask your colorist whether a gloss is a good fit for your hair at your next visit.

To learn more about our blonde color services, visit our women’s hair coloring page or read our post on double process blonde at Aurelio Salon. Browse our stylist gallery for blonde inspiration or view our full salon menu.

Call 732-303-0052 to book a color or toning appointment at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

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You are what you eat!  Here are some simple healthy meals to insure for stronger, healthier hair:

Autumn Hair Color Looks at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ

Getting your hair ready for autumn doesn’t have to mean a big, expensive overhaul. For many guests, the transition from summer to fall hair is surprisingly simple — and one of the most satisfying seasonal changes our colorists make all year. At Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ, we love helping guests find that perfect autumn color that feels rich, warm, and entirely wearable.

From Summer Highlights to Autumn Richness

Many guests come in after summer with lightened, sun-kissed hair — balayage, highlights, or a color that has faded and warmed up over the course of the season. Rather than stripping everything out and starting over, one of the most effective and efficient fall color approaches is a demi-permanent glaze applied over the existing color to shift the tone and add depth.

In the look shown here, the guest came in with existing balayage highlights that had gone brassy and lost their intention. Using a demi-permanent cranberry glaze, the stylist transformed the tired, warm highlights into a rich, intentional cranberry tone — adding depth, shine, and a completely new personality to the hair in a single visit.

Why Demi-Permanent Color Works So Well for Fall

Demi-permanent color is an ideal choice for seasonal color shifts for a few reasons. It contains no ammonia, which means it deposits tone and shine without lifting or damaging the existing color. It blends beautifully into whatever color is already on the hair rather than sitting on top of it. And because it fades gradually over time — typically over 20 to 30 washes — it grows out naturally rather than creating a hard line of demarcation. This makes it a low-commitment, high-impact way to shift your color for the season without long-term obligation.

For guests who like to change their color frequently or with the seasons, demi-permanent color is one of the most practical options available. Ask your colorist at your next appointment whether a seasonal glaze or demi-permanent color refresh is the right choice for your current hair.

To explore our full range of color services, visit our women’s hair coloring page. Browse our stylist gallery for more autumn color inspiration or view our full salon menu.

Call 732-303-0052 to book an autumn color appointment at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

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Are you ever in a rush to go somewhere but feel washed out? No worries! The newest addition to Aurelio Salon will have you feeling better than ever! Welcoming St. Tropez our self tanning line that’ll have you second guessing the damaging tan from the sun. St Tropez is one of the best self tanning lines with its ability to absorb to your skin’s natural melanin, creating a soft gentle sun-kissed glow. The natural melanin is different on each an everyone, so you’ll never feel too dark or too orange. With its aroma guard technology you won’t have to worry about smelling like a spray tan! Want a fast tan? Perfect! Try the St Tropez Self Tan Express mousse, it takes 1-3 hours to get your desired tan. Want to customize your self tan? Awesome! Try the ST Tropez Gradual Tan Moisturizer, each day  you use it your tan gets a little darker, also it’s good to use to maintain the self tan prior to using the moisturizer! St Tropez has many options to choose the best tan for you! Stop in Aurelio Salon today to feel brand new!

Back to School Hairstyles at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ

Summer is winding down and fall is coming in fast — and with it, a fresh start and a reason to update your look. Whether you’re heading back to school or just embracing the new season, the right hairstyle can make a real difference in how put-together you feel every morning without spending a lot of time. Here are some of our favorite quick, stylish looks from the team at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

The Boho Braid: Effortless and On-Trend

Boho-inspired braided styles are one of the most versatile looks for fall. A chic crown twist that flows into a fishtail braid gives you a polished but relaxed result in just a few minutes. The key to nailing the boho braid is to not overthink it — the messier and more organic the braid looks, the better. Pull a few pieces out around the face, let the texture breathe, and you have a look that transitions effortlessly from a morning class to an afternoon out. Pair with a nude lip, mascara, and thin liner for a complete style.

The Effortless Fishtail Braid

A loose fishtail braid pulled to one side is one of the most useful styles for busy mornings — especially on days when your hair won’t fully cooperate. It takes about five minutes, works on second or third-day hair, and stays looking intentional all day. Apply a light texture spray before braiding to add grip and prevent the braid from slipping loose. A dab of smoothing crème on the hairline controls any flyaways without weighing the style down.

The High Ponytail

A sleek or textured high ponytail is a perennial go-to that always looks polished. Brush the hair up smooth for a clean, classic result, or add volume and texture for a more casual feel. Wrapping a small piece of hair around the elastic finishes the look. For extra staying power, a light-hold spray on the surface of the ponytail keeps it looking fresh all day.

Products That Make These Styles Work

The right products make every style easier and longer-lasting. A professional dry shampoo at the roots refreshes second-day hair and adds texture for braids and updos. A texture or messing crème adds grip for braids and gives them a naturally undone feel. And a light-hold finishing spray locks everything in without stiffness. Ask your stylist at your next appointment for specific product recommendations for your hair type.

Ready for a fresh fall cut or color to go with your new style? Visit our women’s cut and styling page, browse our stylist gallery, or check out our new client deals.

Call 732-303-0052 to book your back-to-school appointment at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

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Fall Hair Color Ideas: Transitioning from Summer to Autumn at Aurelio Salon & Spa

After a summer of sun-kissed balayage and bright highlights, fall is the perfect time to deepen, warm up, or add richness to your hair color. The transition from summer to autumn hair doesn’t have to be dramatic — sometimes the most beautiful fall color is simply a more refined and intentional version of what you already have. At Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ, our colorists love this transition season because it offers so many creative directions.

Fall Color Directions to Consider

Deep dark brown with subtle amber hues — A rich, deep brown base with warm amber tones woven through adds depth and dimension while staying wearable for the entire season. This direction works beautifully on guests transitioning from summer balayage who want something richer without going all the way to a flat dark color.

Caramel, gold, and mahogany painted tones — Rich warm tones painted through the hair in a balayage or highlights technique give the hair movement and a multi-dimensional fall feel. Caramel and gold complement most skin tones, while mahogany adds a warm-red undertone that is especially beautiful in fall light.

Butterscotch wheat blonde — For guests who want to stay lighter through fall but move away from the cool, icy blonde of summer, a warm butterscotch or wheat blonde is a soft, flattering direction that bridges the two seasons without a significant change.

Metallic reds — A traditional red hair color with bronze undertones is one of the most striking fall color choices. It catches the light beautifully, complements the warm tones of the season, and is a bold direction for guests who want something noticeably different from their summer look.

Client Transformation: Faded Copper to Merlot

One of the most requested fall transitions is from a faded summer copper or warm blonde into a deeper, richer red or merlot tone. In this transformation, the guest had a natural level 6N base with existing glazed color through the mid-lengths and ends. She brought in inspiration photos showing both a vibrant red ombré and a more violet-red direction. The stylist used a Goldwell Colorance glaze in three custom formulas to create a seamless color melt — deepening the mid-lengths and ends into a rich merlot while keeping the overall look blended and natural.

The result is a perfect example of how fall color can feel like a natural evolution of your existing hair rather than a complete reinvention — richer, warmer, and more season-appropriate while still feeling entirely like you.

To learn more about fall color services, visit our women’s hair coloring page, browse our stylist gallery for more color inspiration, or view our full salon menu.

Call 732-303-0052 to book a fall color consultation at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

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Aurelio Salon Named One of the Top Hair Salons in New Jersey

Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ was named one of the top hair salons in the June issue of Industry Magazine — a recognition that reflects the team’s ongoing commitment to professional excellence, guest service, and quality hair care.

Daisy Rosania, Senior Director of Aurelio Salon, shared her response to the recognition: “Our team couldn’t be happier and are so honored to be included in this prestigious list of salons. We have served our clients for years to ensure that they receive quality service. Our staff is constantly looking to improve and grow.”

The magazine recognition came on the heels of Aurelio Salon receiving Goldwell’s Titanium Salon status — one of the highest distinctions available in the Goldwell professional network. Out of more than 20,000 salons in the Goldwell national network, Aurelio was recognized as one of only 63 Titanium Salons in the country.

A Salon Built on Education and Guest Experience

Aurelio Salon & Spa has been serving guests in Howell, NJ since 2006. The salon’s philosophy centers on ongoing education, individualized service, and helping every guest find a look that suits their personality, hair type, and lifestyle. Our stylists invest time in understanding each guest’s goals — whether that involves haircut design, hair color, curly hair care, or regular maintenance — and work to deliver results that feel both current and naturally flattering.

Daisy’s approach to the business reflects that same philosophy: “It’s important to offer women’s and men’s haircuts that can naturally suit a person’s individuality and hair type.”

Aurelio Salon Today: A Goldwell Platinum Salon

Since those early recognitions, Aurelio Salon has continued to grow and has since been designated a Goldwell Platinum Salon — maintaining our position as one of New Jersey’s premier destinations for professional Goldwell hair color and care. Our team holds 4.9 stars across 475+ Google reviews and continues to offer a full range of services for women, men, curly hair clients, and bridal parties.

To learn more, visit our women’s hair coloring or women’s haircut and styling pages, or browse our full salon menu. New guests can also check out our new client deals.

Call 732-303-0052 to book at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

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Eating for Healthy Hair: Foods That Support Hair Growth and Shine

Great professional products and a skilled stylist can do a lot for your hair — but no amount of conditioner can fully compensate for a diet that is missing the nutrients your hair needs to grow and thrive. Your body treats hair as a low-priority tissue, meaning your vital organs claim the nutrients they need first. Only what remains reaches the hair follicle. If you want strong, healthy, and beautiful hair year-round, the foundation starts with what you eat. Here are some of the most important foods for hair health, shared by Daisy Rosania, Senior Director at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

Salmon: Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Shine and Growth

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for healthy hair growth and shine — and your body cannot produce them on its own. Wild-caught salmon is one of the richest sources available. These fatty acids nourish the hair follicle from within, support scalp health, and contribute to the natural shine and fullness of the hair. Aim for two or more servings of fatty fish per week. If fish isn’t an option, omega-3 supplements derived from algae or fish oil are a good alternative.

Eggs: Protein and Biotin

Hair is made almost entirely of protein — specifically a protein called keratin. If your diet is low in protein, the hair can become weak, brittle, and slow to grow. Eggs are one of the most complete protein sources available and are also rich in biotin, a B vitamin that plays a direct role in keratin production. A deficiency in biotin is one of the most common nutritional causes of hair thinning and loss.

Spinach and Leafy Greens: Iron and Folate

Iron deficiency is one of the leading nutritional causes of hair loss, particularly in women. Spinach and other leafy greens are excellent sources of iron, folate, and vitamins A and C — all of which support healthy scalp circulation and the production of sebum, the natural oil that conditions the hair from within. Pairing iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources helps the body absorb iron more efficiently.

Nuts and Seeds: Vitamin E and Zinc

Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in vitamin E, zinc, and essential fatty acids. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that supports scalp health and protects the hair from oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and environmental pollution. Zinc plays a critical role in hair tissue repair and growth, and a deficiency can lead to shedding and a dry, flaky scalp.

Sweet Potatoes: Beta-Carotene and Vitamin A

Vitamin A is essential for cell growth — including the cells that make up the hair. Sweet potatoes are one of the richest sources of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. Adequate vitamin A helps the scalp produce sebum, which keeps the hair moisturized and healthy. However, it is worth noting that excessive vitamin A supplementation — particularly from certain acne medications — can have the opposite effect and contribute to hair loss.

The Takeaway

Beautiful hair starts from the inside out. A balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, iron, and key vitamins creates the internal environment your hair needs to grow strong, look healthy, and respond well to professional color and treatments. For personalized advice on supporting your hair health alongside professional services, ask your stylist at your next visit. Explore our women’s hair coloring and styling services, or view our full salon menu.

Call 732-303-0052 to book at Aurelio Salon & Spa in Howell, NJ.

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