A Fresh New Year

by Charlie Taylor

What is it about a New Year that makes us giddy with excitement and plans for the future? I always feel a surge of energy at this time in anticipation of new opportunities and activities that wait just around the corner.

For many of us, a visible indicator that we have "turned over a new leaf" is a must. In the hair and beauty business this is often one of our busiest times as people come into the salon to be transformed.

As the recently crowned Scottish Hairdresser of the Year, I can be certain that our stylists have their finger on the pulse of what is new and progressive in hair care so, if you are thinking about a change, there's nothing better and more dramatic than starting with your hairstyle.

It doesn't always need to be drastic: a change of colour or shaping can make all the difference and, in the dark winter months there really is no better way to cheer yourself up than to come in for a couple of hours to relax and walk out looking fabulous.

Trends in hair for this season are based around the colour black - it's the most flattering colour in fashion. The key to black on hair is making sure it is a tone that sits well with your complexion. Certain clients will find it better interspersed with another colour, closer to their natural colourings. However, with advances in colouring technology, anything is possible.

Volume is also definitely back and our GHD styling irons are being used just as much to curl as they are to straighten. We've also recently taken a delivery of a new range of large ceramic barrel tongs which can be used on longer hair to create a very full and effective look.

The pictures from my winning collection for the Scottish Hairdresser of the Year Awards can be viewed online at www.charlie-taylor.co.uk and show a range of very wearable styles that can easily be adapted for every day wear.

Once you've got your hair looking great, make sure your look isn't let down by sporting a dull skin tone, that is all too common as we wrap up and brace the winter months. Book yourself in for a rejuvenating facial with Aveda and make sure you are using a good tinted moisturiser with SPF protection, also available from the Aveda range, to keep the harsh winter elements at bay and your skin looking fresh as a daisy.

So, to get your new look for the New Year off to a dramatic start, give us a call on 01738 633221 and arrange a consultation with one of our professionals in hair and beauty.

Charlie’s Hints & Tips

The key to a great new look is finding a strong style that suits your face shape and creates the statement you want to make. Tell your stylist what you feel about your current hairstyle and how far you want to go with it and let them work their magic.

Once you have a style that works for you, keep it that way. A trim every 6-8 weeks is about right to keep your in top condition as well as your style looking as if it was just done yesterday.

If you have opted to colour your hair, make sure you use a shampoo and conditioner that is suitable for coloured hair. The right products will ensure you continue to shine until your next appointment.

If your style requires the use of heated appliances, such as GHDs, to maintain - make sure you have the appropriate protective products. The GHD protection spray will act as a barrier to the heat, protecting your hair in the process.

If you are joining the millions of Brits who detox every January, one of our best sellers is the Aveda Comforting Tea, a caffeine free herbal blend with certified organic peppermint leaf, liquorice root and other pure flower essences to soothe your body and senses whether sipped hot or cold.