By Clementina Verge
“Creating something that is universally beautiful. That is art.”
The man behind those words was Tokyo-born Shu Uemura, who created an internationally-renowned luxury Japanese brand that revolutionized the world of hair. An extensive line of ethically-sourced products is encapsulated in translucent bottles showcasing light, artistic typography, and “rare, precious, natural ingredients outsourced from Japan.”
It is a true story of art meets beauty meets science meets environmental soundness—and it perfectly embodies Byrde + the b.
“In my 30-plus-year styling career, I have never seen anyone’s hair so soft and bouncy after just one shampoo or hair mask,” declares Scott Bond, owner and head stylist at Byrde + the b, an award-winning full-service luxury salon and art gallery in Washington Depot. “The silkiness and shine are beyond anything I have ever seen.”
Impressed by unparalleled results, Byrde + the b now exclusively uses and offers only its products and Shu Uemura, acquired by L’Oréal in 2007. When entrusted to carry the brand, Byrde + the b joined an elite group of only 350 salons in the United States and one of six in Connecticut.
“Byrde + the b is rated A+ in the industry,” explains Catherine Ouellet, business development manager for Shu Uemura Art of Hair. “It’s in the 1 percent of the top 1 percent of salons in the country; truly the best of the best.”
Bond similarly praises Shu Uemura.
“Results are instant,” affirms Bond. “It’s a multi-sensorial brand: you see and feel the difference. Everything smells incredible and lingers, but not in an overpowering way. It’s also the only line when I have used conditioner on fine hair without problems.”
Supporting the products’ superiority are seven pillars, each incorporating three levels of care to fulfill different hair needs: nourishing shampoos, conditioners, and treatment masques; some also contain leave-in products, including restorative oils and styling aids, explains Ouellet.
From the soft waves of tsuki shape texturizing spray, to the light bubbles of awa volumizing mousse, to the kaze wave that represents the curl mousse’s weightless finish, the brand stays loyal to the art of wabi—finding beauty and inspiration from natural sources.
Color Lustre is infused with healing musk rose oil and goji berries, renowned in Asia as the most concentrated natural source of antioxidants. Harvested by shaking a tree to avoid crushing them, the berry extract protects hair from oxidation and color fade.
Yubi Blonde—fueled by white peonies symbolizing purity and Japanese traditional beauty—benefits platinum or silver hair. Rich in Vitamin D, the flowers are cherished for their moisturizing powers. Committed to responsible sourcing, selective and sustainable breeding spans 15 years, enabling continuous blooms cared for by farmers who harvest by hand only in May and June, and leave half the flowers unused.
Influenced by the blending of Haigo art, such expertly-crafted formulas are art palettes in the hands of hair stylists who use the color-coded, highly-customizable collection to achieve exquisite results for clients.
“Gorgeous tresses and timeless art are always in season, and you’ll make the holidays extra special by giving someone the gift of beautiful hair,” Bond states. —byrdeandtheb.com
