RIPE FOR REINVENTION
When it comes to the way we wear our hair, making the most of our natural attributes, taking a chance on a new cut and clever styling products are on the agenda this year, according to experts.
RETURN OF THE SHAG
“We are living in a world where people are trying new things, and no longer putting them off,” says stylist and Joico Brand Ambassador Felicity Bruce of Cocoon Salon of the mood in salons. “They are taking chances and making some really cool changes.”
It means one of the most significant trending styles worldwide, the tousled shag – or in other terms, a very stylish mullet – will have a big impact here in the coming months. It doesn’t mean you have to go full Billy-Ray Cyrus – more his daughter Miley’s ’do – but that modern texture is increasingly being used to shape longer lengths of hair. “It’s the perfect time to lighten the weight of your locks with layers,” says Bruce.
Slightly 1970s elements dominate, whether it’s a more edgy approach with collar-length hair at the back and slightly shorter in front, or longer sweeping layers and a soft ‘curtain’ fringe. ‘Lived-in’ feathered texture is fuss-free regardless of length. It’s easy to manage, and versatile, you don’t have to work hard to style it.
THE AIR-DRY INFLUENCE
The shag is the most obvious style emerging from an even more far-reaching approach to hair: the low-fuss, air-dry haircut.
“Curls and natural waves are having their moment right now,” says Bruce.
Choosing a style at the outset that suits the unstyled finish of your locks, without feeling the need for shapeshifting daily with heat tools or treatments, is an approach that’s been building momentum for a while. And given many of us spent significant time at home in 2020, we’re now even more familiar with our relaxed, natural hair. Bruce says the approach goes hand in hand with some clever new low-effort products that still prioritise the look and feel of hair. “Joico’s Zero Heat Air Dry Styling Crème is the perfect companion to scrunch into hair, air dry and achieve frizz-free, natural movement.”
GORGEOUS GLOSS
Whether we’re colouring and treating our hair or going ‘au naturel’, one common denominator is the pursuit of radiant, healthy shine, and just like the current skincare boom, there’s increased understanding of the part great haircare plays in getting it. Long, shiny and strong is desirable, but only achievable with extra care.
Ongoing product development prioritises maintaining the internal health of each strand of hair as well as defending its protective outer cuticle from both styling and environmental impacts. Joico’s Smart Release Technology is one example, a liposome delivery system included in its care and styling products that gradually and continuously distributes healthyhair ingredients throughout strands to keep them in their best shape.
Protection from the effect pollution has on the health of hair is also of particular growing interest worldwide, which will be reflected in product launches.
“Polluting agents break down the hair’s hydrolipidic barrier, which is a combination of sebum and water on the hair’s surface,” explains Sabre Education Manager Duncan Richards. “This is the hair’s first layer of defence. Without it, the hair shaft is no longer protected and becomes dull, damaged and brittle with an acceleration of colour fade. Think of the way pollution affects paint on a house by dulling and fading the paint. It has the same effect on hair colour.
“In the scalp, pollutant build-up can also clog pores and block the hair follicles effectively weakening the hair at the root. This makes it more prone to breakage, irritation, dryness, oiliness or, worst case, even premature baldness.”
FLATTERING COLOUR PLACEMENT
This year’s most influential colour update is slightly unexpected, but to a flattering effect according to Bruce. “The ‘money piece’, or highlighted, face-framing front section, has taken a long time to hit New Zealand, but we will definitely see more of this trend in 2021,” says Bruce.
The hand-painted technique can be subtle and blended, throwing light onto the face, or more chunky and dramatic. “It’s not just blonde,’’ says Bruce. “Pastel apricots and blush pinks are my favourite. They give the client such a glow!
“We have also seen quite a few clients go grey because lockdown gave them the head start,” says Bruce. “These clients have been quite eager for a new look, this next generation of vixen are requesting edgy fashionforward haircuts instead.” joico.com.au
“CURLS AND WAVES ARE HAVING THEIR MOMENT RIGHT NOW.” FELICITY BRUCE