Post lockdown hair

Before lockdown my trusted mane man, Michael Charalambous suggested that I grow my colour out and embrace my greys. I was shocked. “No way", I said to myself.

Four months later I was agreeing with him. Lockdown made me realise that colour-faded hair is not a good look on anybody. Michael had also pointed out that regular colouring takes a toll on the condition, whether you use permanent or temporary colorants.

Before

I have been going to Nyumba by Michael Charalambous since he opened the salon in 2003. What I have always admired about him, besides his amazing ability to wield those scissors, is the fact that he is always honest and has never tried to sell me products or a service that I did not need.

Although the shape was still good, the ends of my hair were extremely dry and were crying out to be cut. As much as I wanted it to be done, I was petrified to go to the salon because of COVID-19. (I was once rushed into hospital with a virus and although I had excellent care, it is not an experience I would want to repeat.)

My new hair hero Vitapointe Leave In Conditioner (£2, Boots) was keeping my locks well-moisturised, but it had got to the stage where they needed to be cut. My first outing in months was to Nyumba. 

After

On my daily walks I had passed other salons that did not look like places you would want to enter in the current situation. So, I was rather nervous going to Nyumba, in London’s Sloane Square. I need not have been. He had been as meticulous with the salon as he is with his cutting. Michael had made sure that it was not only safe but was as warm and welcoming as it was before the pandemic.

As the centimetres were whisked away, I noticed that my natural colour was working with my skin tone. Michael added that my hair would be in much better condition. Shiny instead of matte. I left the salon feeling like a new person.

Lockdown also highlighted the fact that while you can find cheap hair products that work better than expensive brands, a great haircut is priceless.

By Daralyn Danns

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

 

 

 

Spotlight on Only Curls All Curl Cleanser (£16, onlycurls.com) and Only Curls All Curl Conditioner (£16)

In these dreadful times it does seem rather frivolous to talk about shampoos and conditioners but our hair is our crowning glory. Physiologically, when our hair looks good we feel better.

When you cannot get to the hairdresser for your regular trim, taking care of your hair is important. Try to limit your use of heated appliances and use good quality products.

Only Curls All Curl Cleanser is a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo containing avocado and kukui oils, that will not dry out your locks. 

Follow with Only Curls All Curl Conditioner. A blend of jojoba, coconut, avocado, kukui, argan and macadamia oils, it makes detangling hair easier. 

I used Only Curls vegan products on my hair which is fine and slightly wavy. It helped to keep it hydrated as well as adding body.  

By Daralyn Danns

Spotlight on Clarins Nutri-Lumière Day Cream, £90

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

As skin gets older, it can lose that radiant glow. For those over 60 Clarins has introduced its new Nutri-Lumière range. It would make a great gift for Mother’s Day or for a grandma. 

 

Containing organic horse chestnut flower extract and horse chestnut escin, plus Clarins Anti-Pollution Complex, this day cream is extremely nourishing helping to re-energise the complexion leaving it looking lifted and refreshed.

For the younger ones amongst you I would recommend Clarins Super Restorative Rose Radiance Cream (£74). This is probably my favourite moisturiser as it makes your skin look plumper and makes you look super healthy.

By Daralyn Danns