Test before you buy your salon hair products

 

Warm and welcoming! Nyumba’s new temporary salon (54 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7JN, tel: +44 (0)20 7408 1489) reflects the personality of its owner, Michael Charalambous and his team.

My hair had grown a lot over the last few weeks so I was in need of a cut. Michael took off about one and a half inches (almost 4cm). Having worn my hair in a longer bob for almost a year, this chin-skimming version looked and felt sassier.

As he was working away, we got on to the subject of products. Salons, generally, encourage you to buy theirs. Michael does not.

Most of us have been there. You buy the shampoo, conditioner and styling aids the stylist used, thinking you will achieve the same result at home. Often, you are disappointed. If that is the case you are not alone. Michael says: “Some clients have said the products work in the salon but not at home.”

 

 

 

 

A hairdresser told me years ago that it did not matter what products I used, it is your blow-drying skills that make the difference between a good hair day and a bad one. In my case, this holds true.

Michael stresses not all styling aids work for all hair types. He also points out that while a range may have one or two great items, others may not be quite so impressive. What is important is to use the right ones for your hair type.

For the salon, Michael buys the best from each line, unlike many salons who only stock one or two brands. He will also source products that work for clients’ specific needs. He does not want them to buy something until they are sure that the conditioner, styling cream, etc really is making a difference.

Michael also has a word of caution about some of the new hairdryers and hot air stylers and brushes on the market. He finds that they get too hot and can damage the hair. He has seen too many clients come in with frazzled strands.

When he opens his new salon, he is thinking of taking a completely different approach to most salons. He does not intend to sell any products!

 

By Daralyn Danns

 

For inspiration visit nyumbasalon.com or follow on instagram.com/nyumbasalon 

 

 

When women reach a certain age, should they cut their hair?

 

The bob has always been my favourite hairstyle. Throughout the years I have worn the style with different variations. I have had longer versions, I have worn it straight, curly, the ends flipped out and turned under.

I have also had long hair. However, I always go back to the bob. My wonderful hairdresser, the amazing Michael Charalambous is always adapting my cut to ensure that it flatters me, works with my hair as well being on-trend.

There is nothing that beats the feeling when I leave the salon with my hair looking incredible. (Michael has that magic touch that I have never found with anybody else.) 

I have found that, because I have such a great cut, it is easy to style. Michael’s take on the Italian bob lets me wear it sleek or with an edgy, lived-in look which works so well with my natural curl.

“Whether you cut your hair when you get older depends on several factors,” says Michael. “Texture plays an important part. As you get older hair tends to become thinner, frizzier and drier and harder to manage.

“Long hair, especially if it is not in good condition, worn straight or curly can be too harsh against an ageing face. You also have to take your face shape, your height and lifestyle into consideration.”

Cutting your locks shorter will make them appear more voluminous and make the face seem as if it has been lifted. Going for the chop can help conceal the visible signs of ageing hair. Fringes can be a great asset as they tend to hide lines and soften your overall appearance.

The hue of your hair is also important. Dark, long coloured hair can throw a shadow on to the face and can make it look haggard. Whereas silver grey hair can actually light up your skin and make it glow. You may find that you need less make-up as well.

Michael says you can use extensions to help make your hair more abundant but they have to be professionally cut and styled. You only have to turn on the TV to see women with extensions that totally overpower them.

Ultimately, it is your decision. You have to be confident with your hair. After all, it is your crowning glory.

 

By Daralyn Danns

 

For inspiration visit nyumbasalon.com or follow on instagram.com/nyumbasalon 

Review Alterna My Hair My Canvas, Texture & Curls collection

 

This is not a paid post. Products are press samples.

 

My fine and fluffy curly hair was in need of a helping hand. I was keen to try the new Texture and Curls collection as I have found Alterna’s products to be good.

 

Positives

Silicone-free and vegan-friendly.

All products had a subtle fragrance.

Begin Again Curl Cleanser (£22.95, alternadirect.co.uk) produced a light lather and was gentle.

Begin Again Curl Conditioner (£22.95) did a good job of moisturising and leaving my hair tangle-free. It also worked well on my hair as a leave-in conditioner. Use a small amount, rub it into your hands, apply to the hair and then style.

More Butter Masque (£27.85) was rich and nourishing. It left my locks silky soft and helped to reduce frizz. This was my favourite product.

My Way Cool Defining Gel (£20.90) was ideal to calm flyaways.

 

 

 

 

Not so positive

Loosen Up Curl Elongator (£20.90) was not rich enough for my hair. I had to mix it with a small amount of the conditioner. I used a hairdryer and was left with loose curls and waves. Next day I reactivated it using water and added some more of the mixture.

 

By Daralyn Danns

 

Low-maintenance hair

 

This summer, according to hair supremo Michael Charalambous, is all about low-maintenance styling. In other words: keep it simple.

“Clients are asking for shorter hair either blunt cut or with a few layers, reminiscent of Meg Ryan in the 90s.” he says.

To achieve that messy look, Michael advises air-drying your locks and embracing your natural texture. Cutting back on using heated appliances will ensure that your locks are in better condition.

Humidity can cause curly or wavy hair to revert to its natural state. When the strands come into contact with moisture from the air, especially shorter pieces or baby hair, they are prone to frizz. So for the summer, I have decided not to fight nature and work with my natural texture.

 

 

 

 

You need to invest in a good haircut as it will fall into place and need very little styling, if any. You will need to prep your hair with a curl cream or a leave-in conditioner to help hydrate it and prevent puffiness.

I cannot stress enough the importance of having a hairdresser who really understands your hair. Michael knows mine inside out so what he says goes. He advised keeping it chin-length the front slightly longer and pushing the fringe to the side as it will be less affected if your forehead gets hot, and by the humidity. Tucking it behind your ears on windy days will prevent it blowing all over the place.

As hair grows, individual strands may have different speeds causing the length to be uneven. This has happened to me which, Michael says, makes my locks look like they are layered. This is due to hair texture and a lot of regrowth. Regular trims and patience have improved the situation dramatically.

My hair does not look great if I let it dry naturally and needs a little bit of help from the hairdryer to smooth it out while keeping some movement in it.

For now, I have given up on the round brush. Instead I use my fingers like a comb to create tension. Keep the hairdryer, about 15 cm (approx six inches) away from your strands and point the nozzle downwards in the direction that your hair falls. Lifting your roots with your fingers creates volume.

A neighbour told me the other day my hair always looks lovely. That is testament to an excellent cut. However, nothing beats that feeling I get from having  Michael weave his magic on me. I always look so amazing when I leave the salon. An incredibly special and talented man!

 

By Daralyn Danns

For inspiration visit nyumbasalon.com or follow on instagram.com/nyumbasalon