Welcome to the first in my series of hair tips. I sincerely hope you'll both enjoy reading them and perhaps pick up something useful along the way. This is something of a new departure for me so I do hope you'll be gentle with me!
Hair Tips: If you're not sure about changing your colour or if you are very nervous, try a few pieces of the colour around the face. That way you get to see what it might look like and if you don't like it then it is really quite easy for a good colourist to remove or cover those little bits.
Got dark hair with grey roots? Then try using a kohl or eyebrow pencil in little strokes from the roots towards the end. This will blend the re-growth with non-permanent lowlights, and this washes out with the next shampoo and should only be used for that root emergency.
Want your red hair to really look great for a specific occasion? Get it refreshed with a semi-permanent shortly before and remember opposite colours provide strong contrast - the opposite of red is green. By wearing these colours and reflecting them in your choice of make-up and accessories will really make your red hair stand out!
A hairdresser or colourist doesn't need a complete photograph to be shown an idea of what you want. If you see a photo and like the way the back is, and in another the way the fringe sits, and another the way the crown looks, don't be afraid to show all these pictures. It's the professional's job to put it all together and help you get what you want. But don't forget they should also tell you if something is not possible for you.
Don't try to explain what you want in terms that you may have heard in and around salons. Use words and descriptions that you really understand, that way you'll get what you want. You're not expected to know all the jargon, otherwise you'd be doing it yourself.
If you're considering a change, always find a salon that offers a complimentary consultation. You may have to wait, but you'll get to meet the person who is going to do it and you can decide before you book the appointment if you feel comfortable with the person who is going to give you the change you want. You will also get an impression of the salon while you are waiting.
If you like having a go at styling your hair at home, never be afraid to ask the advice of the stylist. They'll show you how to do it and which products would be best to get the result you want. Remember, you're going to have to deal with your style for the next month or so.