Cosmetologist joins TF salon

Artistic Image Salon in Thompson Falls has just hired a cosmetology master.

Melissa Totzauer is no stranger to the business. As a 34-year licensed cosmetology veteran, she has been both operator and owner of a salon and cosmetology school in Kalispell.

"Teaching gave me an opportunity to learn and teach new techniques and work with new products," said Totzauer, addressing how her teaching experience has helped her stay up-to-date in the cosmetology business, allowing her to deliver clients top-notch products and services.

Totzauer claims that "color and cuts are my specialty, but I also bring PolyGel and waxing to Thompson Falls." According to Gelish, PolyGels's producer, the product is better than gel or acrylic because it is a hybrid of the two. PolyGel stays where you put it, does not harden until it is cured by LED (30 seconds) or UV (2 minutes) light, and does so without tackiness. In addition, it is more flexible than acrylic while being stronger than hard gel and lighter than both.

Hair and nails are not all Totzauer practices. She is also a certified Repechage facial technician. "The line is all seaweed based. Seaweed is a perfect superfood for all cells," she said.

"I am thankful for the opportunity to work with Debbie Brown at Artistic Image," commented Totzauer, who relocated to the area three years ago. She can be reached by calling (406) 250-9319, and is scheduling clients on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays.