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
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