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
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