From points south of Providence:
95 N to Exit 24 (Branch Ave.). Take a right off of the exit and follow down to first traffic light (North Main St.). Take a right and follow to fourth traffic light. Take a left onto Olney St. and then your next three consecutive rights. You will be on Benefit St. We are the last house on the left, 4 Benefit St. It is a purple Victorian house on the corner.

Q. What are your hours of operation?
A. We are open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 9am to 8pm, Friday 9am to 6 pm and Saturday 8am to 4pm.

Q. What is involved in a makeover?  
A. Usually haircut/styling is the first thing.  Then hair coloring is often included.  This could be anything from natural color treatments all the way to foil and color highlighting.  Makeup is usually included in a makeover.  Other things could be hair removal(waxing), manicure, pedicure, facials and/or body treatments.  A basic make over includes a haircut/styling, hair color and makeup which would be $115 and up depending on the stylist. Please call for a complimentary consultation.

Q. How often should I get a facial?
A. A least once a month for maintenance because the skin cells
replace themselves every 28 days.

Q. How often should I moisturize?
A. Morning and night.

Q. Should I use an SPF all year round?
A. Yes

Q. What causes your skin to break out?
A. This is a very complex question with no definite answers. Hormonal fluctuations, changes in regular habits (i.e. sleep, exercise, diet, etc.), changes in weather, excessive oil and skin build up or bacteria are just a few fairly common causes.

Q. How often should I get my brows or lashes tinted?
A. 4-6 weeks depending on life style

Q. Do you offer body massage?
A. No, We do however offer body treatments using a variety of products and application techniques. Body Treatments

Q. Will I break out after a facial?
A. Most people do not, occasionally flare-ups occur.

Q. Can I go tanning and get a wax the same day?
A. Preferable wax 24 hours before or after tanning.

Q. How often should I get my brows or lashes tinted?
A. 4 to 6 weeks depending on life style.

Q. Will I break out after a facial?
A. Most people do not, occasionally flare-ups occur.

Q. Can I wax if I'm using "Retin A" or "Retinaol"?
A. You need to discontinue use for 1 to 2 weeks before waxing.

Q. How can I get rid of or prevent ingrown hairs?
A. Waxing and exfoliation helps.

Q. Should I get facials during pregnancy?
A. Yes. If you have any concerns consult w/your physician or speak w/your esthetician before your appointment.

Q. Can I have a facial and waxing the same day?
A. Yes, in most cases this will not be an issue. If you have any concerns or exceptionally sensitive skin it is best to wait or consult with your esthetician.

Q. Can I go tanning and get hair removal the same day?
A. Preferable hair removal at least 24 hours before tanning.

Q. Can I have a facial and hair removal the same day?
A. Yes, in most cases this will not be an issue. If you have any concerns or exceptionally sensitive skin it is best to wait or consult with your esthetician.

Q. How long should hair be before hair removal?
A. For facial hair removal, hair should be 1/8 inch and body hair should be about ¼ inch, to achieve a smooth, clean removal. It is best to trim bikini hair prior to hair removal. During the summer months, it's recom-mended to rebook every two to three weeks for facial hair removal and three to four weeks for body hair removal. It all depends on your hair growth as cycles vary for everyone.

Q. At what age can you start hair removal?
A. Hair removal can begin as young as 10 years old with consent of a parent or guardian before service.

Q. What types of health conditions and medications interfere with hair removal?
   -Prescription acne medications such as Retin-A or Accutane.
   -Skin care products that contain over eight percent glycolic and alphahydroxy acids.
   -Blood pressure medication.
   -Diabetes or phlebitis.
   -Having had a Botox treatment in the past 72 hours.
   -Having had a chemical peel or dermabrasion treatment within the past 90 days.
   -When in doubt, consult with your doctor prior to any hair removal service.

Hair Removal Hints:

   -To reduce pain and/or redness take 2 anti-inflammatory caplets and antacids about 1 hour before appointment.

   -If breakouts occur you can use witch hazel or a gentle antiseptic. Inform your esthetician if breakouts occurred so she will not apply an oily cream after hair removal.

   -For excessive redness or discomfort use antibiotic ointment with a pain reliever in it. Pure aloe vera gel, ice, and cold compresses are also helpful in reducing pain.

   -In case of over exfoliation of the skin with any hair removal, use an antibiotic ointment and keep the area moist.

   -Moisturizing after waxing varies depending on the skin of the individual. For breakout prone clients it is best not to moisturize. An antiseptic or antibiotic ointment is a better alternative.

   -Moisturizing before hair removal is recommended only for clients with extremely dry skin.

   -Tanning should not be done 24 hours before or after hair removal.

Bikini Hair Removal Questions and Hints:

Q. How long does a bikini hair removal last?
A. 4-6 weeks-It is less painful and more effective to trim bikini hair before hair removal appointment. Trim to no shorter than ¼ " inch.

Q. Is it okay to have a bikini hair removal during pregnancy?
A. It is safe for pregnant woman up until their second trimester. We advise against hair removal clients in their third trimester, as the sensitive nature of this service could prompt premature labor.

   -If it is your first bikini hair removal, it is best to leave hair slightly longer than a 1/4 inch.

   -Regular exfoliation of bikini area can cut back or prevent ingrown hairs. The product Tendskin is also very effective in the treatment of existing ingrown hairs and preventing them. This is available at Christiaan.

Q. Weak Nails?
A. Try using a nail strengthener like will help strengthen and keep nails healthy.  We carry Nail Envy by O.P.I. and The NailTek program. Also, weekly manicures are a great help.

Q. How can I prevent peeling, breaking, and splitting?
A. Exposure to water is most often the culprit here- surprisingly, the more you soak, the drier the nail becomes, weakening over time. Detergents in soaps, household cleansers, and some nail polish removers can also have adverse effects. Prevent further damage by wearing gloves during chores. After hand-washing, apply a rich moisturizer to nails to replace the natural oils that water washes away. Using a polish or a cuticle oil (such as Avoplex by OPI) will provide a protective shield.

Q. What's the best way to manicure my nails?
A. File in one direction only- sawing back and forth can cause splitting. Nails are strongest when you shape them into an oval. The pointier you make them, the likelier they are to break.

Q. What do those tiny white marks mean?
A. It's a myth that these flecks indicate a vitamin deficiency. More likely, they're the result of a minor injury and will disappear as the nail grows. But watch out for dark marks. If you recently hurt your hand (say in a car door), don't worry. But if not, and you see a black, brown, or purple band on your nail, it could be a sign of skin cancer. See a doctor right away.

Q. Athlete's feet?
A. Only treated by a physician.

Q. How often do I need a manicure?
A. I recommend a weekly manicure.

Q. What does paraffin do for your skin and nails?
A. Paraffin has intensive moisture therapy that nourishes skin and cuticles. The penetrating heat increases circulation, soothes aching joints and relaxes stiff muscles.

Q. Do you recommend gel or acrylic nails?
A. We only do gel nails because the protein helps your nails, they look more natural and the process is odorless.

Q. What products do you use?
A. O.P.I., Essie, Creative, and Cuccio.

Q. Is the staff certified?
A. All Christiaan staff are Rhode Island licensed and certified.

Q. What nail services do you offer?
A. Click here Nails

  -The Facts About Fungus
These infections can settle in without your even realizing it. To be on the safe side, says Dr. Rich of Oregon Health & Science University, you should periodically remove any polish and inspect your fingers and toes. "Fungus is contagious and can spread from one nail to another- and even from nails to skin," she explains. "These infections aren't dangerous, but they can be painful and unsightly." What to know:
Causes: Humid places are fungus favorites, which helps explain why sweaty shoes and socks make toes more susceptible than fingers. Fungal nail infections account for about 50 percent of all nail disorders, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Untreated athlete's foot and nail injuries can also make you prone to infection.
Warning Signs: Your nail is thickening, yellowing, crumbling, or lifting from its bed (as if it's about to fall off).
Treatments: The bad news: "Since the infection occurs under the nail plate or in the nail bed, successful treatment will take several months or more," says Dr. Rich, who suggests trying prescription oral medication (like Lamisil).
Prevention: Wash and dry your feet thoroughly. Keep your shoes on in public places. If your feet sweat a lot, change your socks often.

  -TLC to help nails grow.
"Everyone has an individual rate at which their nails increase in length, and that can't be changed," says Paul Kechijian, M.D., a nail specialist and a former clinical associate professor of dermatology at New York University. On average, nails gain about one eighth of an inch per month. Their growth can be influenced by hormones (which is why pregnant women's nails grow like crazy) and temperature (more growth in summer than in winter). While most experts agree that there's no single food or pill that will speed nail growth, it's well known that poor nutrition, infections, and aging can all slow it. To keep nails healthy, hydrate them and minimize the use of harsh chemicals and tools. Help prevent breakage with a hardener like OPI Nail Envy. (Available at Christiaan Salon)

  -Dos & Don'ts
Don't share your nail file.
Resist the urge to let anyone- even a relative- use your emery board. This tool is a porous germ-trapper. Keep yours to yourself, and replace it often.
Do wear the right shoe size.
Are you cramming your feet into too small or too pointy shoes? If so, your toenails may grow into the surrounding skin causing the dreaded ingrown nail, which can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. When nails are too long, tight shoes can cause even more damage, says Mitchel P. Goldman, M.D., an associate clinical professor of dermatology at the University of California, San Diego. "If your toes hit the front of your shoe, nails can crack or turn black-and-blue. Or nails may lift, which can lead to infection."
Do moisturize Daily.
Nails need to be hydrated, since most problems crop up when they're parched. "Dry nails can crack, peel, and become brittle. Plus dehydrated cuticles not only look ragged but also can turn into painful and infected hangnails," says Audrey Kunin, M.D., a Kansas City, Missouri, dermatologist. The best moisturizers are thick- even greasy.
Don't go barefoot.
Keep your shoes on while at public places (swimming pools, locker rooms, shoe stores)-if you don't, we won't be responsible for your toenail health. Why worry? "Warm, damp, environments are a breeding ground for fungi and viruses," explains Phoebe Rich, M.D., a nail disorders expert and a clinical associate professor of dermatology at Oregon Health & Science University in Portland. Tip: If hose isn't offered when you're shoe shopping, ask for it.

Q. What shampoo should I use?
A.  Not an easy answer with out seeing and touching your hair. Your hairstylist is the expert, ask him or her.

Q. Should I switch shampoos occasionally?
A. Again, ask your stylist if there is a build up or the shampoo isn't getting your hair clean enough or it needs more conditioning or color treated. Your life style and what treatments are done on your hair varies so a shampoo what that was right may not be now.

Q. What's the difference between a gel and a mousse?
A.  Gels are  gelatinous,thick and generally stronger and heavier.  A mousse is foamy and lighter. 

Q. How often should I get my hair cut?
A. 4 to 6 weeks to maintain your style. No more than 12 weeks if you are growing it.

Q. Dandruff?  Itchy dry scalp?
A. We recommend and carry "Goldwell Anti Dandruff Shampoo."

Q. Straightening curly hair?
A. We use 3 products depending on the type of hair. "DeCurl" is for wavy hair.  "Paul Brown"  and Bio-Ionic is for very curly hair. We do not take appointments for hair straightening on new clients without first having a free consultation.

Q. Will blow dryers or hot irons damage my hair?
A. No, not if you get frequent trims, condition properly and use heat and iron safe products like "TiGi" Fashionista.

Q. How often should I shampoo my hair?
A. Depends, Do you work out and perspire a lot, or are in smoky or smelly areas, then probably once a day. Maybe just a little shampoo. Normal conditions every other day. Just enough shampoo to get a nice lather and not boiling hot water.

Q. Does just conditioning and not shampooing have benefits?
A. Yes, for very dry hair, rinse hair thoroughly in the shower, apply conditioner on shaft, not the roots, and rinse, again, not very hot water.

Q.  How are the hairstylists trained?
A.  Since we are well known as a premier salon, we can choose from the best applicants.  They train with our entire staff full time for at least six months as well as attend advanced color training with "Goldwell".  The top "TiGi" trainers come to our salon every 6 months for the latest styles and techniques. Staff attend "TiGi" classes in New York and Dallas.  We have the latest "TiGi" video and workbooks for our staff.  Trainers from various companies demonstrate their latest products.  As a team we are always working together discussing the needs of our clients especially if there is a special problem. ("TiGi" is considered to have the finest schools and products in the world)

Eye Pencils
Eye pencils should always glide on smoothly.  They should be sharpened so they do not drag on your skin and pull your lids.  If your eyeliner is soft you can put it in the freezer to harden it back up.  Eye liners should be used at the bottom of your lids.   Applying eyeliner can be difficult so start out with light strokes and then blend with an eye shadow brush or a q-tip.

Eye brow pencils
Eye brow pencils should be used to fill sparse eyebrows or enhance the overall shape of your brows.  Take a sharpened pencil that matches your brows closest to your natural color and gently stroke to fill in any open spaces.

Mascara
Mascara should be replaced every 3 months.  Old mascara can make lashes look clumpy, short, and dry.
Try to avoid “pumping” the mascara because it can cause too much air to get into the tube and cause it to dry out faster. 

Colors that work for all eye shades

Blue eyes  
Browns and rose color shadows look best on blue eyes.  Use brown eyeliner and smudge to make it look natural.  Follow with brown mascara and make sure to have your lips light and sparkly. 

Green Eyes
Brown and purple shadows work best with green eyes.  For a daytime subtle look, browns work best.  For a more dramatic look, lavenders and dark purples create a striking fun evening look.

Brown Eyes 
Blue shadow emphasizes all the different colors of brown eyes.  Lighter shades give you the best result.  Dark shades should be used in the crease and blended upwards.  Highlight  your brow bone with a light color of blue.  Navy eye liner will complete your overall look.  End your great look with  black mascara. 

40’s + Makeup

• Put away the shimmer shadows
• Go glossy on your lips
• Fill in your eyes with a little liner.  It will help in making your lashes look a little fuller
• Fill in your brows to make them fuller and more defined