The saying "a new year a new you" could have been written especially for that first trip to the salon in the New Year
The start of the New Year is often a catalyst for positive change and, let’s face it, there is no more positive and powerful change than new fabulous hair! Here's a five-step guide to getting exactly what you want from a visit to your stylist and make sure you leave your appointment feeling sensational.
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A picture says a thousand words
Despite the growth of social media, some clients still feel embarrassed about bringing a picture to the salon.
The truth is an image is still the best way to ensure that you and your stylist are on the same page in regards to what you are looking for. If I say “a blonde bob with waves” what are you picturing? The chances are that it’s not the same as what I am thinking about. All aspects of this wavy blonde bob, not just the length and type of blonde, are open to the individual's interpretation, so don’t leave it to chance as your hair is your greatest fashion accessory.
Pictures are also a great way of eliminating what you don’t like or want which helps to narrow down the options to find that perfect look. The Peter Mark Pinterest page is broken down into blondes, brunettes, long hair, short hair, bobs fringes, etc., so it is an easy way to locate a style that you like.
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Honesty is a two-way street
When a stylist asks you, “When was the last time you had colour applied?” or “How long ago was your last hair cut?” these are not just random questions designed to make you feel bad about yourself. They are asked to help gain an insight into your styling and hair habits.
How often you shampoo your hair, colour it and even cut it all play a part in what will and won’t work for you and your hair. Some colours and haircuts require more maintenance than others and having this information will help guide your stylist to what will work best for you. So if you have no intention of drying your hair when you get out of the shower, your stylist needs to know as they can then recommend something that suits it, like Redken One United All In One which has an amazing 25 benefits for improved manageability, protection and beautifully conditioned hair.
Being honest with your hairdresser will be beneficial to you both in the long run as no stylist ever in the history of hairdressing wants their clients to feel bad about their hair.
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The truth hurts - but it can set you free
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As I said before, no stylist wants their clients to feel bad about their hair, but sometimes things don’t work out exactly to plan.
There will come a time in every woman’s life when she isn’t happy with the result. This may be a simple styling issue with a blow dry or a layered cut she cannot manage. If you want your hair all tousled and laid-back but your stylist seems to be making it a little too tidy for your liking just say so. Yes, I know it can be embarrassing and awkward, but honestly, your stylist wants you looking and feeling your fabulous best.
It’s good to remember that nobody likes to be told they’re doing their job badly, but every hairdresser would appreciate the chance at making things right for their client.
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Vague isn’t a fashion magazine
Clarity is key when it comes to your hair, so there is no point in being vague about any aspect. If you are thinking of getting a bob, literally point to the length you want on yourself and leave no chance for interpretations. If short layers don’t work for you, say so. When your stylist asks you about getting a fringe, it is no time for a vague “maybe”.
If you are unsure about something, say you are unsure, it’s ok to ask as many questions as you like as this will continually narrow things down to your perfect look. When your stylist ask you about how you style your hair at home there is no point saying you blow dry your hair if you don’t or if you can’t. It’s ok to say you don’t, because there are lots of things your stylist can do hair cut wise to help or recommend for you to use, such as the Dafni Ceramic Brush which will allow you to simply brush your hair into shape eliminating the need for your sore arm morning blow dry session.
Remember, having a clear picture of what you want will play a major role in you getting what you're after and avoiding something that you struggle to maintain on a daily basis.
- Choosing the right someone for the relationship
If you are not happy with your hair and you have followed all the steps above it might be time for a change.
In all our salons we offer complimentary consultations on all our services including our exclusive Rapture extensions. Consultations are the perfect way to test the waters and see if you’re a good match and if your new stylist is on your wavelength. You can also try out any prospective new stylist by booking an appointment for a blow dry. This will let you get a sense of your stylist’s skills and allow you to ask some questions about styling and colour options again allowing you the opportunity to get a feel for your new fashion friend.
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You can also try out any prospective new stylist by booking an appointment for a blow dry. This will let you get a sense of your stylist’s skills and allow you to ask some questions about styling and colour options again allowing you the opportunity to get a feel for your new fashion friend.
John Harvey is a head stylist at Peter Mark. To find your nearest salon see www.petermark.ie.
