The hairdressing industry battles the stereotype of being the ‘easy option’ for a chosen career every day. But little do people consider that hairdressing is a whole lot more than ‘just cutting and colouring’. Which is why, we’ve pulled together a list of all the ways you use science and technology in hairdressing every day without even knowing it.
Scalp Care
As the ‘skinification of hair’ continues to rise, it’s known that the key to healthy hair is a healthy scalp. As every hair grows from a follicle beneath the scalp surface, ensuring the follicle and skin surrounding is well nourished helps increase hair growth. Hairdressers are on constant lookout for scalp conditions their clients may be suffering from which could result in breakage and hair loss. Spotting signs such as redness, irritation, and itchiness, means hairdressers must have an understanding of different ingredients and products to advise their clients on an appropriate haircare routine which will benefit their scalp.
Understanding pH
All hair products have a pH, so understanding the amount of acid present in hair products is crucial as this can massively affect your clients’ hair and scalp condition. Knowing when and how to use products for each client based on pH, allows hair professionals to get the best outcome for their customers.
Hair Colour
When it comes to creating optimum hair colour for clients, a clean and healthy base is vital. Think of it like a chemistry lab – colourists will need to neutralise metals, and balance the ratio and volume in order to prevent breakage on the hair and give client’s long-lasting colour. Hairdressers mix their own colours depending on each client and therefore need to have a solid knowledge of reaction times. From the colour application through to processing, hairdressers carefully monitor the chemical reactions taking place.
Perming
And it’s not just all about colour. Other chemicals are also used to perm hair. Various perm solutions are made up of different chemicals so it’s vital that hairdresser’s identify which solution is best for each customer depending on their hair type and condition in order to prevent damage.
Heat Technology
Monitoring heat usage on client’s hair is also a crucial role for the hairdresser. Knowing the appropriate products and appliances to use on each client not only helps reduce dryness and breakage from over-exposed heat, but it can also help to reduce frizz.
And hairdressing is not just limited to science, here’s 10 ways you use maths in hairdressing without even knowing it.
