When it comes to children’s hairstyles, parents agree keeping things simple usually lasts until kids approach 12 years old.
“From then on, these pre-teens seem to have ideas of their own on how they want their hair to look, and, as parents, we just have to make sure it’s not too over the top,” said Sandy Barbetta, co-owner with husband, Cosmo, of Cosmos Salon and Day Spa.
“However, even for these younger kids, while parents still have a major influence on how hair should be worn or cut, there are some great style options available,” Sandy explained. “Because kids are so active, for both boys and girls, hairstyles that are easy to manage and will not get tangled easily are great everyday choices,” she continued. “Older kids should be able to manage whatever style they choose by themselves.”
According to Sandy, young boys usually will have easier to manage hairstyles, which can quickly be adapted for any special occasion by using styling products, such as grooming cream, fiber, pomade, defining paste and wax. “Current favorites of young boys, and also of many parents, are haircuts that are short and spiky or side swept, what the kids call the Justin Bieber look,” she said. “These styles are perfect looks for the back-to-school boys’ cuts we’re doing right now at Cosmos.”
There is a much wider range of trendy hairstyles for young girls. “Since moms often tend to enjoy doing their daughter’s hair,” Sandy said, “girls have more flexibility in their day-to-day styles, depending on how much time mom and daughter have for morning primping.”
Right now, the three most popular styles among young girls are short and sassy, chin-length bob and shoulder-length, worn many ways – straight, wavy and curly, braided or up in ponytails. According to Sandy, no matter the cut you choose, it is very important to have split ends trimmed, and set the proper heat temperature when using a flat iron to keep young hair healthy and protected.
“Hair decorations are extremely popular right now,” she said. “We are seeing a lot of glitter strands that add sparkle to the hair. Fashionable this fall, feathers of all colors, styles and shapes are installed among strands of hair,” Sandy said. “They are quick and easy to do at the salon, and permanent until you remove them. Headbands and flowers are great accessories, too.”
Hair color and a great haircut go together. “Teen-appropriate, subtle highlights or lowlights can be a fashion statement—never too young, and never too old,” Sandy continued. “Great hair care and products also are a must, and our designers can help young clients find the best ones for them and their new styles.”
For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call (480) 844-0707. You also can visit the Web site at CosmosSalonandSpa.com. Cosmos Salon and Day Spa is located at 2837 N. Power Road.