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Q: Do you believe the claims haircare companies make about their products?
A: Of course I take into account the claim and research, but more importantly, I judge by results. I truly believe that there is a hair care product out there for everyone – but finding ‘The One’ can be difficult, so the claims companies make give me an overview of what to expect but it is really personal experience that determines compatibility!
Q: Which haircare products do you think perform the best?
A: It’s a personal thing; like with our skin and skincare, certain hair products are best for certain hair types. There is no 'wonder' fix, it’s simply ‘Trial and Error’ until you hit the ‘Trial and Triumph’ phase. But I am a strong believer that unless hair is nourished, moisturised and in good condition, no styling products can save it! So to answer your question, the best – and most important product to any hair care regime – is a nourishing product like Pantene Nourished Shine shampoo and conditioner that holds moisture in the hair. Nourish from within!
Q: How do you test and compare haircare products for your articles?
A: I am proud to be a human guinea pig in the name of achieving better hair, but there is only so much one beauty editor can take, so I call on family and friends also. I know that some things just don't work for some people, but can turn out to be the holy grail of hair products for others. Therefore, I dish out products to those close to me who share my quest for a better coif, but who don’t share my hair texture and colour history. That way I can see what works when and for whom.
Q: What are your top tips for making the most of your haircare products on a budget?
A: I have been told by many experts – and find this myself – that you shouldn't wash and condition hair every day. Daily washing can strip the hair of its natural oil, which protects it. Also, a big lather does not make a better result! Soaping up and up and up by using more product is unnecessary. A small amount – of a good product – should work just as well. Less is more in this case!
Q: What products would you recommend as the best value?
A: Obviously shampoo and conditioner is the cleanser and moisturiser of the hair world so it’s vital to prolong the vitality, nourishment and gloss of hair. On top of that, you can't go past a weekly athome treatment - one of life’s small (cheap) luxuries that just cannot be overlooked, especially if you have colour or treated hair. Remember to only use as much as you need, in most cases you can get more than one use out of a treatment ampoule or tube.
Q: Do salon products really work better? Should you believe your hairdresser?
A: Not necessarily. However if you have coloured or curly or grey hair etc it is very important to use a compatible product – but you can get just as good en-mass as in the salon. Keep in mind that hairdressers may get a portion of sales from any product sold in salon, so it is best to ask for a sample (any good hairdresser will do so) and compare it to a supermarket brand that has the same aim. Shop around. Your hair – and wallet – will thank you for it.
Q: What haircare product do you recommend for damage repair? Why?
A: Anything that penetrates the hair shaft and gets in good and proper! I personally have coloured, curly hair and the combination is follicle suicide so I have to maintain the inner-health of my hair. If a product doesn't penetrate – and just sits on the surface – it will be gone before you step out the door. But if it gets in with its goodness within the shaft, it continues to nourish from within and is more prepared to weather anything the environment has to throw at it. I find that Pantene Pro-V leave-in treatments provide just the right karma for my curls.
