Whew, what a summer that was! We hope you’re ready for a new season and to help you along the way, we’ve packed this issue with all the inspiration and advice you could ever need.
We’re kicking things off with OPI Nail Boss Jessica White who’s sharing a week in her shoes over on page 6 before going into a deep dive on skincare on page 10 – we’re talking hydration and hormones.
From page 16 onwards we’re going into a full-on hair trend frenzy. Starting with essential cuts for men, we then take you through the top 5 styles for the season followed by some shimmering colour trends on page 22.
Of course we’ve also made room for the new shades and finishes when it comes to autumnal nail art on page 26 and on page 30 we’ve got advice on which training courses to take for the next stage of your professional career.
By the way, we’d love to know what you’d like to see more of in the Capital Cut so don’t hesitate to get in touch over on our socials. You can find us @capitalhairuk and @capitalhairireland on Instagram and @capitalhairandbeauty on Facebook.
Autumn is here; make sure you’re all stocked up!
Massage in a bottle
This is the time of year to encourage clients to hit reset from head to toe.
A massage is the perfect addition to any treatment, and we love this Kaeso Massage Oil with rejuvenating Geranium. While you ease your client’s knots and tension they can breathe in the relaxing scent and float away.
£6.45/€7.35 for 495ml
Keep it curly
The Redken Acidic Bonding Curls Leave-In Treatment is the perfect professional treat for your curly clients. It’s a silicone-free formula that provides heat protection and repairs and restores damaged, chemically processed and curly hair. Great for hair types 3A and up.
£18.95/€21.50 for 250ml
Dreamy
Take a shot
Help your clients keep their tan for longer with a dose of TanShot. This refreshing beverage contains Vitamins A, C and E plus Beta-Carotene to help keep skin looking tan and healthy.
Keep it clean
£24.00/€29.99* for a box of 24 x 60ml *Online only in Ireland
Made for Glitterbels Gel Polishes, the Glitterbels Dream Cure Lamp makes a pretty addition to your workstation. With a state of the art design and light reflecting technology, there are 4 countdown timers and a low heat setting to reduce the risk of heat spikes.
£208.33/€231.00
Professional finish
This Procare Super Wide Lite Embossed Roll in silver is essential for precise and accurate colouring. The embossed finish isn’t just aesthetic; it helps to provide grip and prevents unwanted slipping during application.
£8.50/€10.00 for 100m
Miraculous repair
K18 has taken off around the world and the Leave-In Repair Hair Mask is one more reason why you need the brand in your kit. Featuring the K18 Peptide ‘miracle molecule’, this treatment leaves hair feeling and looking repaired from the inside out. £60.00 for 150ml
It’s not just your skills as a beauty pro that your clients will be impressed by, it’s also the little things, like paying attention to hygiene.
The Barbicide Manicure Table Jar is the perfect way to keep things clean and disinfected in between clients. £11.15/€12.75
The ultimate blonde Whatever the season, blonde hair never goes out of style. That’s why you’re going to need to stock up on Wella Professionals BlondorPlex Multi-Blonde Powder. Offering up to 9 levels of lift, this lightening powder is easy to prep and features BlondorPlex Technology to ensure bonds are kept healthy and strong. £23.25/€26.50 for 400g
The right tools for the job
Whether you’re a freelancer or a salon owner, precision is always going to be key when it comes to your colour clients.
This Procare Premium Tint Brush Set features three expertly designed different sized brushes to elevate your colour service. £3.99/€4.50
Shop all this and more at capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk and capitalhairandbeauty.ie today!
Icy touch
Formulated with Hydrolysed Soy Protein and Jojoba oil, the Osmo Super Ice Brightening Shampoo is a gentle, sulphate-free shampoo that keeps blondes super clean and bright. Thanks to the black pigment it contains, yellow and orange tones are removed and replaced with the lightest shades of blonde. £7.40 for 300ml
AND TESTED TRIED
IN MY
A WEEK SHOES
Meet Jessica White, the nail tech and educator who also owns her own luxury salon and training academy. Here she shares a busy week of manicures, social media and content creation.
Monday
I work Tuesday to Saturday, so Monday is technically my day off, but in reality, it’s my organisation day – a day that allows me to reset for the week. I spend the day running errands such as food shopping, cleaning the house, replying to emails, tackling administrative tasks and setting up my diary for the week.
Tuesday
I recently opened my own salon – Blanc Studio, here in Leeds – so Tuesday is the start of my work week and I get to spend the day doing what I do best: manicures! I arrive at the salon around 8am and typically see about six or seven clients throughout the day.
Wednesday
As a content creator and OPI Nail Boss, much of my time is dedicated to crafting content for social media. Being an OPI Nail Boss means you’re part of a network of inspiring nail experts who all get to show their love of the craft as well as the OPI brand, on social media.
This means that Wednesdays see me spending the day in my home studio shooting fun nail looks. In the evening, I edit the footage and draft the videos for my social media channels.
Thursday
Another day in the salon! I love working with my clients and always make time for those who have supported my career from the beginning. The variety in my work keeps things exciting – whether it’s French tips, gold chrome, bold red, or baby pink – no two days are ever the same.
Friday
One of my favourite aspects of my work is working with brides and today I’m heading to London for a bridal party manicure session. I love curating the perfect manicure for the bride and her party.
Jessica’s advice
Nails are a small yet significant part of a bride’s big day, so I am honoured to be the manicurist.
Saturday
Saturday mornings are always busy at the salon. I start at 7am and typically work until 1pm, seeing a steady stream of clients. My schedule allows me to spend the afternoon wrapping up any administrative tasks so I can start unwinding for the weekend!
Sunday
Today is my rest day. I make a conscious effort to spend this day at home with my partner. Ideally, we’ll go for a walk, grab a coffee, and enjoy a relaxed morning. We might visit some family, and in the evening, we’ll cook a lovely roast dinner. Perfect.
“Give everything your all, work hard, and enjoy every lesson. If you love something and are determined to make it happen, it’s totally possible.”
HEADLINES
Keratin Complex at Capital!
Keratin hair treatments are amazing for your clients, and for your profits. Here at Capital a firm favourite is Keratin Complex. Read on to find out more about this brilliant brand, made with you in mind.
WHY KERATIN COMPLEX?
Keratin Complex is the secret to delivering stronger and smoother hair for your clients and while the brand offers a treatment for every hair type, its focus has always been creating products that help you make money and continue to build your client base while delivering consistently beautiful results.
WHAT’S HOT RIGHT NOW?
If you want to truly blow your clients’ minds, then check out the KCEXPRESS Express Blow Out Smoothing Treatment ; an award-winning colourlocking express smoothing solution that delivers polished, more manageable hair with results that last up to 6 weeks. Taking just 15 minutes to apply, the KCEXPRESS can easily be added to a colour service or you can offer it as a short and sweet 1-hour standalone service.
WHY YOUR CLIENTS WILL LOVE IT
• Eliminates frizz
• 1 hour or less treatment
• Profitable colour locking service add-on
• Hair can be shampooed just 8 hours after the treatment
The KCEXPRESS Express Blow Out Smoothing Treatment is available in System Kit sizes for minimum investment, and also comes in mid and 1 Litre kits!
THERE’S MORE
As well as providing conditioning and smoothing treatments, Keratin Complex also has the perfect solution for blonde clients who want to ensure their hair stays healthy and strong.
It’s a Blonde Thing is a nourishing keratinenhanced lightener that lightens and brightens while improving the integrity of the hair. Offering up to 7 levels of lift it can be used on or off the scalp for a range of processes including balayage and foiling techniques.
Find out more about Keratin Complex and how it can boost your business at capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk/brands/ keratin-complex today.
Discover all you need to know at our new Seminar: ‘It’s a Blonde Thing X KC Express’. Visit our training section on our website or book in-store.
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HYDRATION FOCUS ON
After months of warmer weather, it can be tough on your client’s skin as temperatures start to fluctuate. Now is the perfect time to really get in touch with your client’s skin to work out exactly what they need, and if we had one single piece of advice, it would be to switch the focus to hydration, whatever the skin type. Read on for our guide to hydrated, healthy skin.
WHY DO WE NEED SKIN TO BE HYDRATED?
Let’s answer this question from another angle; what does dehydrated skin look like? Key indicators include fine lines on the forehead and the outer corners of the eyes, redness around the nose, even an irritable breakout around the chin. All of these things are normal and natural parts of life, but they can also tell you a little bit more about your client’s skin.
A breakout could be caused by their monthly cycle, or they might be going through perimenopause (more on this on page 12), and that redness could be attributed to sensitive skin. Whatever the reason for these signs, hydration can improve them all.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MOISTURISING AND HYDRATING?
Moisturising means applying a product, often oil-based, to the top layer of the skin so it can appear softer and more healthy and lock in water. Common moisturising ingredients include Lanolin, an emollient that keeps skin feeling soft and smooth and Coconut Oil, naturally abundant in fatty acids that nourish the skin.
Hydrating the skin means applying ingredients that contain or attract water to the outermost layer of the skin. Common hydrating ingredients include Hyaluronic Acid – naturally found in our bodies and capable of binding up to 1,000 times its weight in water – and Glycerin, a moisturiser that naturally occurs in our skin.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO ‘LOCK IN’ HYDRATION?
Think of it as if you’re creating a yummy hydration sandwich for your client’s skin. After you’ve completed a treatment or facial and the skin is clean, pat a refreshing, hydrating toner all over the face. Next, apply a hydrating serum to lock in the toner, then apply a moisturiser to seal in the serum. Of course, if you’re sending your client out into daylight, the final step would be sunscreen.
If you’re trying to encourage your clients to use more hydrating products at home, a simple way to advise them on creating a hydration sandwich is to tell them to apply the thinnest, most watery product first, and apply the thickest product, like a moisturiser, last.
SHOULD I TELL MY CLIENTS TO DRINK MORE WATER TO IMPROVE THEIR SKIN?
This is one a tough one, because optimum hydration is a very individual thing. Even if you advised your clients to up their water intake to 3 or 4 litres a day, there’s no guarantee that they would see the results in their skin, especially if they love a cup of a coffee or tea – both are known to dehydrate the body and the skin as a direct result.
That said, with apparently 80% of us not drinking enough, it won’t hurt to encourage your clients to increase their water intake and tell them to monitor whether they can see any changes in their skin.
HEAD TO TOE HYDRATION
Skin Republic Collagen Hydrogen Mask
This biodegradable sheet mask is the perfect addition to any facial treatment. Packed with rejuvenating Collagen the mask soothes the skin and leaves even the driest clients feeling hydrated for up to 48 hours. £3.60/€4.40
Strictly Professional Sensitive Skin Moisturiser
For clients who’ve gone overboard with the actives, this moisturiser will get them back on track. With calming Mallow Flower, White Tea and Aloe, the skin barrier is gently hydrated and protected.
£7.20/€8.40
CAN USING EXFOLIATING AHAS HELP TO HYDRATE THE SKIN?
AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) are the perfect ingredient for exfoliating dead skin cells, and after usage they give skin a more glowing appearance and allow the skin to more fully absorb hydrating products. But as with all things, too much of anything is not good, and if your client overdoes the exfoliating, they can damage their skin barrier.
You’ll know when this has happened because your client’s skin will feel extra sensitive, no matter what you’re applying to the skin, and you will likely see instant redness. Ask your client what products they’ve used and advise them to strip things all the way back so that their skin barrier can get healthy again. Advise them to invest in products that contain ceramides – the glue that literally keeps the skin cells together – to soothe and nourish the skin.
Kaeso Hydrating Facial Kit
If you’re looking to add a hydrating facial to your treatment menu, this kit gives you everything you need. Featuring 5 full size products, you can offer a service that starts with cleansing and ends with a deeply hydrating mask. £18.35/€20.90
THE UPS AND DOWNS OF HORMONAL
SKIN HEALTH
Throughout our lives hormones are there to let us know when things are working, changing or struggling. From teenagers experiencing acne to how the menopause shows up in our skin and mood – understanding the impact of hormones on your client’s skin will enable you to take care of their skin needs whatever they’re going through.
WHAT ARE HORMONES?
Hormones are chemical messengers that are essential to several processes within the body. They play an important role in skin health, and when they are out of balance, it shows up in the skin. Hormones also affect the state of our growth, sexual function, reproduction and metabolism. Likely causes of hormonal changes are the menopause, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) – a common hormonal disorder indicated by acne, unwanted hair growth, weight gain and hair loss – as well as menstruation, contraception and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
Here we talk to Joe Netherwood, of Known Nutrition about what you as beauty pros can look out for when it comes to your client’s skin, and which supplements could help.
WHAT
ARE
THE
KEY
THINGS BEAUTY
THERAPISTS SHOULD BE AWARE OF OR LOOK OUT FOR WHEN IT COMES TO HORMONES AND HOW THEY CAN AFFECT THEIR CLIENTS’ SKIN?
Hormonal imbalances can manifest in various ways on the skin, often signalling underlying health issues. One of the most common manifestations is acne breakouts, which are caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause and can lead to increased oil production and clogged pores. This is due to androgens, a group of hormones that include testosterone and androstenedione, which cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and produce more sebum, leading to acne. However, more and more people are dealing with adult acne, often into their 40s and beyond, so it’s important not to assume acne is just a teenage thing.
If your client’s skin seems more dry, itchy or sensitive than usual, they might want to look into their oestrogen levels, as oestrogen plays a significant role in maintaining skin hydration and overall health. Declining oestrogen levels can lead to reduced production of natural oils and hyaluronic acid in the skin, which can cause the skin to become more prone to irritation and feeling rough or flaky. Additionally, oestrogen is crucial for maintaining collagen and elastin levels, both of which help skin to look and feel firm and plump. As oestrogen levels drop, the skin can become thinner and less elastic, leading to sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles.
Something else to watch out for on your client’s skin is hyperpigmentation. Conditions like melasma – often triggered by hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives – cause dark, discoloured patches to appear on the skin, especially on the face. Another significant issue is inflammation and redness. Fluctuations in cortisol, the stress hormone, can lead to increased inflammation and skin sensitivity, exacerbating conditions like rosacea and eczema.
By understanding these hormone-related skin issues, beauty professionals can better tailor treatments and product recommendations to meet clients’ specific needs, ensuring they provide the best possible care and advice.
HOW CAN SUPPLEMENTS HELP?
Supplements can be instrumental in regulating hormones and addressing the various symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances. For example, Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in hormone regulation by supporting neurotransmitter production, which can help alleviate mood swings and other symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause. Our Ashwagandha Gummies are a powerful combination of Vitamin B6
and Ashwagandha, known for its natural hormone-balancing properties. Ashwagandha has been used to help manage stress and promote overall hormonal equilibrium, making it an excellent addition to a supplement regimen.
For those experiencing acne or sensitivity, Clear Skin Gummies are specifically formulated with a blend of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and prebiotics to support clear and healthy skin. Vitamin C, Zinc, and Selenium provide essential nutrients that contribute to the maintenance of healthy skin, while Evening Primrose Oil and Bacillus Coagulans (gut-friendly bacteria) help reduce skin inflammation and support a balanced skin microbiome.
Reduced collagen levels due to hormonal changes can lead to skin elasticity loss, dryness, and rough texture. Our Advanced Marine Collagen Liquid includes 5g of hydrolysed marine collagen, which supports the production of collagen, skin elasticity and hydration. This product is particularly beneficial during menopause when collagen levels decline, leading to sagging and wrinkling. The inclusion of Vitamin C enhances natural collagen synthesis and protects cells from oxidative stress, while Vitamin A and flaxseed oil aid collagen and elastin production, adding further support for skin hydration, and regulating oil production.
ARE THERE ANY ONLINE RESOURCES WHERE READERS CAN LEARN MORE?
There are several excellent online resources where beauty professionals can learn more about hormone imbalances and menopause. Our friends at Simply Menopausal offer a wealth of information specifically geared towards managing menopause and its symptoms. Additionally, the Known Nutrition Blog is a fantastic resource for information on nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
Want to know more about Known? Visit capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk/ brands/known today
BESPOKE
BROWS AND LASHES
Never before have we seen so many trends and innovations affecting peoples’ choices when it comes to lashes and brows. Read on to find on what’s new and what’s next.
DREAMY LASHES
Over the past year or so, lashes have gotten bigger, fluffier and more fluttery, and as such, the tide is turning a little. You’ll no doubt have had clients already asking for a naturally pretty look and this is likely a side effect of the ‘clean girl aesthetic’ or trends like the no-makeup makeup look, currently popular on TikTok. For the rest of 2024 the focus is on looking effortlessly pretty, but of course, that actually does take effort!
A great way to give clients a chic and striking look is to work with individual wispy lashes. Think soft and fluttery like autumn leaves…
CHUNKY LASHES
For your fashion-forward lash clients, the soft and simple look will be replaced with ‘look at me’ lashes in the shape of mixed lengths, diameters and curls. Think multi-dimensional lashes that add depth and a lot of personality.
BROWS NOW
When it comes to length, lashes tend to get all of the attention, but right now, your clients are starting to wonder about eyebrow extensions too.
This is likely a backlash against all the super skinny brow trends we’ve been seeing over the past couple of years. That super thin ‘90s style is a fan favourite amongst many a fashion and beauty creator, but, it’s not a look that suits everyone. Instead, many of your clients will be longing for a thicker, fuller yet natural looking brow; and that’s where brow extensions come in.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF BROW EXTENSIONS?
First, the existing brow needs to be tidied up, so any stray hairs should be removed. This will help you to work out the natural shape of the client’s brow, and if and how it could be changed slightly for a better finish.
Next, you need to draw an outline of the planned eyebrow shape and show it to the client. Yes, it might look a little weird but this way you’re making them part of the process.
Once the outline is done, it’s time to attach the extensions to the existing brow hairs, right next to the root. For clients with alopecia or those going through chemotherapy, you can glue the hairs to the skin instead. This would be a longer process but it’s good to know that you can offer this service to everyone, particularly those who could be feeling self-conscious about their lack of brows.
COLOUR PLAY
Coloured mascara had a major moment last year, with brands of every price point creating shades of blue, brown and burgundy, and the trend has inspired a more permanent option in the form of coloured lash extensions. Now there’s such an array of coloured lashes that you can even give your clients metallic extensions too – such a great idea for the festive period!
At Capital we’ve got a great array to shop from, with brands like Tatti and Salon System so be sure to check us out online or instore.
care when washing their face. With care and attention, the extensions can last anywhere from 5 days to 2 weeks on skin, and several weeks when attached to existing hairs.
The key to giving a good brow extension is to use a mixture of colours that naturally match the client’s hair as well as the right texture. The key to making the extensions last is to ensure your clients don’t touch them and take extra
Want to add to your lash and brow services?
Check out our range of courses at capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk/ training/beauty-courses/ eyelash-and-eyebrow
MODERN
CLASSICS
When it comes to men’s hair there’s definitely a return to cult classics in the air. Read on for Jim Shaw of Toni&Guy Billericay and Oliver Hill of MaxOliver’s salon essentials.
Jim Shaw’s eclectic men’s essential cuts When it comes to cuts that every barber should know, I’ve got three key essentials. First, the Taper fade: combining two hairstyles in one, the taper and the fade. This is a haircut that’s on trend, contemporary and stylish, but will still be a classic cut for years to come.
The hair starts as a taper at the top and then converts into a fade at the bottom. I love to use matte products like pomades and pastes when styling this look to give it a trendy finish, focusing on the top where the hair is longer in length to add movement and volume.
Next, it has to be the textured crop. This is another personal short hairstyle favourite of mine and a cut that’s always highly requested by clients. This can be worn in many ways, but I love to pair it with a fade at the back and sides, ensuring they are cut shorter than the top and then add lots of texture into the top section of the hair for an on-trend finish.
The textured crop also looks great when paired with a fringe for serious ‘cool guy’ vibes. It’s a good choice for those who may struggle with hair thinning as the layers and choppiness within the cut provide the illusion of thicker hair. Again, I like to use a matte product like a clay with this look and blow-dry it into the hair using my fingers to separate the hair and work the product through for texture and movement.
Finally, the buzz cut, a classic cut that’s not going anywhere anytime soon! For those looking for a low maintenance style that requires no effort, this is the perfect choice. While there’s no styling required, you need to ensure your client books in regularly to keep them looking clean and uniform.
For Oliver Hill of MaxOliver, essential cuts are your most-salon friendly, wearable options. Here he shares two of his favourites.
#1 This look was showcased on the Modern Barber stage at Salon International last year. My main focus for the look was to make it salonfriendly and efficient. The cut works shorter lengths internally to longer lengths externally, creating a head-hugging shape. But when you add product, you can really shake up the style and make it very textured. This is an easy look for a client to style and maintain so it’s a real winner.
#2 This is a short, textured crop – a popular salon classic. It’s the shortest cut in the MaxOliver classic collection and is quite difficult to master, particularly with the skin fade back and sides.
Hair changes in colour, density and texture, and you’ve got to adjust yourself to that hair type by millimetres on the clipper grades. When you get this one right it’s a great classic to have in your skillset.
STYLE
DIRECTORY
This season calls for clean shapes, volume and effortless styling. Read on for our top 5 essential looks for right now.
#1 The bell bottom bob
Just like fashion, hair trends are cyclical, and this trend goes all the way back to the 1970s. Back then bell bottom jeans and flares were all the rage, and the hair soon followed suit. Think of this as a classic bob, but instead of curving inwards, the ends are flipped out for an edgy and fun look.
Sian Roscoe, Indola’s UK ambassador, explains:
“The bell-bottom bob is a traditional bob with a longer layer to create a triangular silhouette, and it’s my favourite shape to work with at the moment. My go-to product to style the bell-bottom bob has to be Indola’s Volume & Blow Dry Spray : it gives hold and protects the hair throughout the drying process and gives maximum volume. I like to finish the look with Indola’s Volumising Powder and Flexible Finish Hairspray.”
Andy Heasman, RUSH International
Art Director, says the bell bottom bob is the perfect style option for clients looking for versatile styling options. He says: “the bell bottom bob can be styled with a polished finish and flicked ends, for a super chic and sophisticated appearance, and the ends can be flicked either inwards or outwards, depending on the desired finish.
“Before any heat styling, it’s key that the hair is prepped to ensure the style lasts. I always like to wash the hair and then apply a mousse or heat protection spray through damp hair. Goldwell StyleSign Powerwhip Strengthening Volume Mousse is one of my favourites for this look as it gives the hair strength, volume and a strong hold. I apply this through the hair before going in with a round brush and hairdryer, working through sections to give the hair volume,” explains Andy.
#3 The kitty cut
#2 The big blowout
In the words of Beyoncé, ‘this ain’t Texas’, but everyone, everywhere wants big hair right now.
The key to wearing a big, beautiful blowout in 2024 is all in the prep. While the looks of the past relied on styling products to fix a shape; instead it’s important to focus on volume from the shampoo stage. This way you’ll need less product when you get to the finishing touches. Assess your client’s hair needs so you can tailor your volumising products to their hair type; this way you’ll avoid weighing the hair down with too much product.
Ashley Gamble loves a big blowout and says a round brush is crucial.
She explains: “This look involves using a round brush and blow dryer to create voluminous, bouncy waves with lots of body and movement. The hair has significant lift at the roots and throughout the lengths, creating a full-bodied appearance. It’s all about loose, flowing waves rather than tight curls, finished with careful styling to smooth the cuticle for a sleek look.”
This is one of those styles that evolved as a hybrid of several popular styles of late. It’s a little bit wolf cut, a little bit shag, and the best part is, everyone can wear it.
Andy Heasman says: “The Kitty Cut is such a fantastic hairstyle, as it suits everyone, no matter what the hair length, texture or face shape. Think of it as a more polished take on the wolf cut – that beautiful combination of the shag and mullet but with a softer appearance.
“The style combines long, soft layers, textured ends and is all about face framing. Being cut slightly shorter at the front, it allows this style to really pop and draw attention to the client’s best features, including their eyes and cheekbones. For those who have natural waves/curls, I love to enhance the cut by using a texturising cream/ spray on damp hair and scrunching this in with my fingers before allowing the style to air dry.”
#4 The grown out fringe
Having a grown out fringe is no longer a negative; in fact, with the right tools, it can give your client a wealth of options when it comes to styling. The most natural progression is a soft, romantic curtain bang, or Birkin bangs. Named after 1960s singer and actress Jane Birkin, the so-called epitome of ‘French girl chic’, Birkin bangs can be cut at various lengths, and should be slightly scruffy and sparse, adding a touch of dimension around the face.
Another way to grow out a fringe is to create face-framing layers for your client or Ashley Gamble says, consider offering a side-swept option.
She says, “a slightly side-swept, grown out fringe is the perfect transitional hair moment and when styled well, can offer a softer alternative to blunt bangs while still providing some face-framing benefits.”
#5 The halo cut
This is perhaps the most ideal haircut for any clients who want to embrace their curls and texture. The halo cut is characterised by face framing layers for a volumising finish and works just as well on straight hair too. It’s all about creating that halo effect around the face, and it’s a favourite of Ashley Gamble’s too.
“I love this distinctive hairstyle, known for its circular shape that frames the face, reminiscent of a halo. The cut typically features minimal to no layering, which helps maintain its distinctive circular shape. The entire haircut shows extreme precision, with very clean, sharp lines,” says Ashley.
Shop all your styling needs at your local Capital store or visit capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk and capitalhairandbeauty.ie today.
FUTURE COLOUR TRENDS
Autumn might be here but as we look ahead to colour trends, things are looking shimmery, glossy and otherworldly. Read on for our favourite ways to play.
THE TREND: OPALISING
WHAT IS IT?
While there are several different names for this trend, from pearlescent white to celestial silver, one thing all the hair experts agree on is that this shimmering trend is all about creating holographic colour that’s super light-reflecting.
Tracey Ann Smith, ASP Global Ambassador, explains: “This technique is based on the light hitting the hair to show the multi tones. The secret to nailing this look is having the hair in great condition; you need a beautiful base and the right tones to hit the light reflection. The results are stunning - imagine a disco ball when light hits it.”
For Rainbow Room’s Suzie McGill, opalising is all in the technique.
“Opalising is a great way for those with platinum and more block blonde shades to update their hair and give it dimension, depth and movement. The technique involves blending through subtle tones of pink, violet and blue to give the hair a multidimensional finish that mimics the beautiful opal stone.
“The hair almost looks pearlescent and has incredible shine. For those feeling more adventurous, the hues of pink, violet and blue can also be intensified to give the hair a fun pop of pastel,” says Suzie McGill.
NEW INDOLA CARE & STYLE .
Our compact and high performing care and styling assortment enables you to create complete services simply in-salon and at home. Infinite care & styling performance for you.
THE TREND: GLOSSING
WHAT IS IT?
Hair is not only susceptible to the elements; it also suffers due to heat damage, bleaching, hard water and stripping shampoos. The result is hair that’s left looking dull and dry – the opposite of healthy. What glossing does, is help to increase shine and even tones.
Glosses are semi-permanent conditioning colours that add intense shine, so while they add colour, they also take care of the hair.
For Tracey Ann Smith, glossing is something all hairdressers should be doing more of.
She explains: “When I apply a global colour I always finish with an all over gloss. It’s just a 10-minute process at the basin and gives hair a high shine to really finish off the look. Alternatively I like to use a clear gloss on natural hair to give it a real wow factor. I always factor a gloss into my pricing and apply it as standard.”
OSMO Technical Advisor and owner of Technocracy Hair Salon Kelly ShoneAdams says glossing offers a whole host of benefits.
“Glossing gives a subtle wash of low commitment colour while eradicating brassiness or dullness,” says Kelly. She continues: “it also conditions the hair, boosts shine and adds dimension, richness and depth.”
For Brian ‘Leo’ McCallum of ROAR Hair & Beauty, product choice is crucial when it comes to offering glossing.
He says: “For optimal results, I always recommend using a product with an acidic pH to help the cuticle contract and maximise shine. My top picks are Goldwell Colorance or Elumen.”
THE TREND: RIBBON LIGHTS
WHAT IS IT?
Kat McEwan, Colour specialist at @hair_by_k. mac shares the evolution of ribbon lights.
“We know balayage, ombré – even root melts are part of our clients’ everyday vocabulary these days, but ribbon lights?
“To me they are a classier, more defined big sister to balayage. The difference is the blend, or rather the lack thereof. Ribbon lights offer depth and dimension to any colour and are very carefully placed defined sections of your chosen tone, that run perfectly through the base colour.
“The great thing with ribbon lights is the clear and obvious definition; it’s a technique that will make lighter areas really pop and stand out against the desired base colour,” says Kat.
Ben Driscoll-Price, from Price Driscoll, says there’s no need to worry, ribbon lights aren’t the chunky highlights of the 90s.
He says: “ribbon lights are thicker than regular highlights, mimicking where you would want to naturally see brightness when the sun hits the hair, creating dimension and texture through the contrast in colours. They’re ideal for clients who like their natural colour but want to spice it up a little.”
Shop all your colour needs at your local Capital store or visit capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk and capitalhairandbeauty.ie today.
Jake Nugent, OSMO Ambassador explains further: “Colour placement is key with ribbon lights but I’d say less is more. It’s important to create blonde and golden ribbons throughout the hair but also make sure you keep enough dark in the hair for that contrast effect.”
NEW MOOD
N E U T R A L S
The vibe for autumn nails is cosy and wholesome. Read on for our favourite neutral shades for this season plus why we’re loving a matte finish right now.
Cool stones
The minimalism of the ‘90s has been on our moodboards for several seasons, so of course it makes sense that we begin to see it shaping nail trends too. The latest ‘90s inspo? Military greys.
We saw them on the catwalk for SRVC and what we loved most was the super matte finish. This is a great look for clients with short nails but will definitely work for anyone rocking longer, coffin-shaped styles too.
How to wear them: Greys don’t have to be matte; you can play with shimmering gunmetal greys too!
Toasty browns
Maybe it’s because we can’t stop singing Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso, but there’s something about warm cappuccino shades right now. Think anything from a milky tea to a rich black coffee when it comes to autumn browns.
How to wear them: Add a touch of gold metallic for the ultimate in luxury or play with a matte top coat to create contrast and a cool edge. For clients who still love their French manicures, dip their nails in chocolate brown, as seen at the Luar runway show, and watch them fall in love.
Winter greens
Green is fast becoming one of the go-tos for nail clients because there are so many shades to choose from. You’ve got peppy pastel pistachio shades – which look amazing with a shimmering topcoat – as well as safari khaki shades, and for an elegant option, there are some gorgeous fresh forest greens, which look stunning with a high gloss finish.
How to wear them: Green looks best worn with a glossy topcoat and even some embellishment in the same shade for some added texture.
Make it matte
Matte topcoats can completely change a look within minutes, offering a richness to your design, particularly if you’re working with shades of deep burgundy, navy, dark green and even jet black.
Don’t forget, you can shop all your nail art needs at your local Capital store or visit capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk and capitalhairandbeauty.ie today
OPI Global Ambassador
Iram Shelton shares her favourite shades and finishes for this autumn.
Beige and brown
You can’t fault a brown or neutral nail, especially those chocolate-coloured nails! There’s a whole spectrum of brown and beige shades to choose from, so there’s definitely a shade for everyone. Some of my faves are OPI Espresso Your Inner Self and Samoan Sand.
Super greens
Green is a favourite of mine when it comes to autumn because there isn’t anything richer than a gorgeous deep emerald or forest green nail. It just screams elegant, sophisticated and beautiful. I love the colour on shorter nails with a glossy top coat! OPI Stay Off The Lawn is a good choice!
Cool greys
Grey nails have been a hit and miss over the years but there’s something about a stone grey nail for autumn that sounds good. We can see it as a positive take on the grey skies but actually, it will pair nicely with your typical autumn wardrobe as it’s a colour that goes with anything pretty much.
More mattes please
Playing around with textures and finishes can really enhance the nails and matte nails are always fun for autumn. I love playing around with a matte finish on darker colours because I feel it stands out more, especially on colours like OPI Got The Blues for Red and Lincoln Park after Dark. To really make it pop try adding a tiny touch of a glossy top coat in specific areas to show the contrast.
Find out more about Iram over on Instagram @iramshelton
CELEBRATING 70 YEARS
IT’S A CELEBRATION
We’ve come a long way since the first Capital Hair & Beauty store, which opened in 1954. Today we have a loyal customer audience online and in-store, and we are now the UK’s largest independent supplier to hairdressers, beauty therapists and nail technicians. We don’t take that for granted, so we wanted to give something back in the form of something very special, and very bespoke. We decided the best way to do that was to collaborate with Glitterbels , a stunning nail brand that is just as focused on supplying the products of your dreams as we are.
THE INSPIRATION
The colour, Sea Salt White is inspired by the salty waters of our HQ’s hometown, Brighton. Whatever the weather, the beach is our favourite place to be, so it only made sense to recreate the crisp white waves that we get to enjoy as Brighton locals. We think it will look amazing with the autumn nail art trends over on page 26 and will look equally good on your French manicure clients. Sea Salt White a must for any nail tech.
LIMITED EDITION
What makes the beautiful new shade even more special, is its unique packaging. Draped in the classic Capital blue, you won’t see this special edition box design anywhere else. This very special Hema-free gel polish shade is limited edition, so be sure to grab yours while you can.
LEARN
MORE MORE TO EARN
If you’re thinking it’s time to add a new service to your salon menu or you’re a freelancer who wants to expand your skillset, read on to find out about some brand new courses at Capital.
Loulabelles Body Wood Therapy
Originating from Colombia, Wood Therapy is a vigorous type of massage that utilises wooden, handheld tools and vacuum suction cups to increase lymphatic circulation and reduce cellulite.
Course duration: 6 hours
Entry requirements: Students must be Level 3 trained or complete the online Level 3 Anatomy and Physiology course before attending the in-store practical session.
Cost: £1,400.00 ex VAT
Loulabelles Ice, Metal and Wood Facial
While many of your clients would love to turn back the clock, many of them won’t want anything invasive when it comes to their skin. Learn how to use holistic methods to combat ageing and help tighten the skin in this in-depth course.
Course duration: 6 hours
Entry requirements: Students must be Level 3 trained or complete the online Level 3 Facial Anatomy course before attending.
Cost: £1,350.00 ex VAT
Loulabelles Ice and Metal Therapy
This course is perfect for anyone interested in learning how to contour and sculpt the body. You will learn how to effectively use metal tools to enhance muscle definition, tighten sagging skin and reduce swelling.
Course duration: 6 hours
Loulabelles Loula Luxe Facial
Microneedling and Dermaplaning are two brilliant offerings for your skin health savvy clients. In this advanced facial course you will learn how to use both procedures to tighten skin and increase Collagen production.
Course duration: 6 hours
Entry requirements: N/A
Cost: £599.00 ex VAT
Entry requirements: Students must be Level 3 trained or complete the online Level 3 Anatomy and Physiology course before attending the in-store practical session.
Cost: £1,495.00 ex VAT
To find out more about these courses, or to see what else is on offer, visit capitalhairandbeauty.co.uk/training today
If you can’t make it to an in-store class, read on for information on these new online courses with Beauty by Laura-Ann Academy.
Hydro Jelly Mask
This is the perfect add-on for clients who need some chill time when they come in for their next facial.
Offering the ultimate in hydration, this is a peel-off mask treatment that works wonders on the skin.
Course duration: 3-4 hours approx
Entry requirements: Students must already have a basic facial qualification to complete this course.
This is not a beginner’s facial course.
Cost: £40.00 ex VAT
Ice Globes and Crystal Roller
This course is a brilliant add-on for your facial clients, helping them keep calm and relaxed. All you need is a set of ice globes and a crystal roller.
Course duration: 4-5 hours approx
Entry requirements: Students must already have a basic facial qualification to complete this course. This is not a beginner’s facial course.
Cost: £40.00 ex VAT
LED Light Therapy
LED Light Therapy is the latest skincare treatment to really take off, so why not offer it to your clients?
This course will teach you how to professionally incorporate the treatment into your existing facial menu.
Course duration: 3-4 hours approx
Entry requirements: Students must already have a basic facial qualification to complete this course. This is not a beginner’s facial course.
Cost: £40.00 ex VAT
Alpha-Hydroxy Acid is an organic acid, small enough to penetrate the hair fibre at the deepest level. Rebuilding hydrogen bonds in the
The special combination of AHA & bio-identical
Omega-9 is a bio-identical lipid, targeting the outside of the hair fibre. Coating the surface and filling in the cuticle to re-create a protective
#1 Glitterbels Hema Free Capital Sea Salt White EXCLUSIVE!
We’re so excited to share that Capital has its very own special nail polish shade in collaboration with Glitterbels. To celebrate 70 years of serving our customers across the country, as well as the fact that we are now the UK’s largest independent supplier to hair and beauty professionals, we thought we’d create a signature shade limited edition polish. Sea Salt White is a beautiful, fresh white shade, inspired by the salty shores of our HQ’s hometown: Brighton. £6.65/€7.60 for 8ml
#3 Known Hydrolysed Marine Collagen Gummies
If you’ve got a client who doesn’t get why their nails aren’t growing or wants to see more of a glow to their skin or hair, tell them about these yummy gummies. Packed with 500mg of Hydrolysed Marine Collagen, they are the perfect supplement to support hair, skin and nail health. £9.37 for 60pcs
Also, if you want to know more about Known, be sure to read our Hormonal Skin Health feature on page 12.
#5 Tatti Tres Chic Individuals
For clients who want to look and feel glam every single day, these Tres Chic lashes from Tatti are hard to beat. With alternating edges these lashes are super lightweight and reusable. £5.97/€6.95
#8 TMC Gel Precious Gems collection
As the nights get darker, what better way to play with nail art than to indulge in this glamorous jewel toned collection? From sparkling emeralds to shimmering blacks, this is a collection £44.25/€46.30
#2 Rose & Caramel Purity Excel 60 Second Tan Remover
If you want to upgrade your tanning services, why not treat your clients to this gorgeous exfoliating scrub? Featuring a yummy pomegranate and mango scent, it will remove any brand tan within 60 seconds and leave skin perfectly primed for flawless application. £16.65 for 440ml
#4 Strictly Professional Anti-Ageing Facial Care Kit
In this kit you’ve got everything you need to care for clients who are starting to see the affects of ageing. Featuring a cleanser, toner moisturiser and serum, it’s also perfect for retailing to travelling clients. £19.95/€23.35
EDIT THE BEAUTY
Are you ready for the new season?
#7 Hive Super Berry Blend Hot Wax Pellets
This high quality wax has a rosin free and vegan formula that performs at low application temperature and is packed with the superfood strength of Bluberry and Cranberry. Add to that a delicious berry scent and your clients will be feeling as smooth as a fruit smoothie! £14.10 for 700g
#9 TMC Gel Natural Vibes in Sage
If you’ve caught up with our nail trends on page 26 then you’ll know that green is a key trend this season. We think this Sage polish from our faves TMC is perfect for nailing the look. £7.55/€8.10 for 8ml
#6 Skin Republic Hyaluronic Acid and Collagen Mask
Hyaluronic Acid is the number one skin hydrator and as temperatures drop, that’s exactly what your clients are going to be needing. While Hyaluronic Acid keeps skin hydrated, this nourishing mask also contains Collagen, the skin-plumping ingredient that keeps skin looking bouncy and youthful. £2.60/€3.15
#10
Gellux Mini Gel Polish in Pumpkin Patch
Perfect for clients who like a lowkey Halloween celebration, this gorgeous glossy shade from Gellux looks stunning on short nails and can also be glammed up with metallic gold for a luxurious finish. £7.25/€9.10
THE POWER
OF COMMUNICATION
If being able to communicate with your clients has always felt a little complicated for you, whether that’s discussing price increases or simply getting to grips with social media, read on for our expert tips.
First, Brian Leo McCallum, owner of ROAR Hair & Beauty salons weighs in on the price increase conversation.
When it comes to navigating price rises as a salon owner [or freelancer], it’s so important to communicate with your clients as soon as possible to ensure they are aware of any increases ahead of their next appointment. You can even do this during their appointment, so they are aware of the increase in advance of their next booking and it won’t come as a surprise to them.
Most importantly, when communicating price changes, it needs to be done in a way that won’t drive your loyal clients away.
Instead, try to think of a way you can add value to your existing treatments/services that will justify the price increase to your clients. This could be as simple as adding a small complimentary service, such as a free hair treatment/masque on top of their colour service, to each client’s appointment once
Here Avril Kealy, Digital Content Strategist for Phorest, the salon software provider, shares her top 3 Social Media tips…
#1 Image is everything When creating social media content, remember that your posts will fight for attention amongst high-budget, high-quality content from other companies. To ensure you stand out from the rest, you need to focus on your visuals! While you don’t need a camera crew and professional studio to make your social posts look great, you should adhere to certain quality guidelines.
Whether posting photos or videos pay attention to the lighting, backgrounds, and positioning you use. Similarly, try to emanate the vibe or aesthetic of your business through your visual content; i.e. use relaxing music in the background of videos if you want to communicate your space as a sanctuary of serenity, or use more upbeat and vibrant music if your salon fits that vibe. Place products in front of lush foliage and greenery if you want to show that your business is a place where nature meets self-care, or try
you have announced the news of the prices. Or you could bring in a rewards/loyalty points process so that they have something to gain with every visit to the salon. This will show your clients you appreciate and value their custom.
It’s also really important to ensure you communicate the price increase through a variety of methods, especially for clients who might not be due in for a good few weeks. Be sure to send out a ‘checking in’ email with the price information, or think about sending out a newsletter as well as sharing the news on all of your social media platforms.
Lastly, be sure that you are always keeping up with your team’s performance, and that you are providing regular training across the team to update their skills/knowledge and improve their customer service. This way, upping prices won’t be as much of a ‘sting’ for clients; they will understand and see the value in every penny that they spend. They’ll know that the cost is down to the level of expertise and professionalism you and the team provide.
and match the colour scheme of your space in your videos, so it feels like viewers are getting a taste of what it’s like to book a treatment with you.
#2 Lift the curtain and take viewers behind the scenes
With many businesses attempting to curate a perfect, polished image of themselves on social media, many consumers feel their social media feeds are full of dull, homogenous content and sometimes, they don’t even believe what’s being said. With so many paid for ads out there, it’s a challenge to be seen but if you are your most authentic self, your viewers, and potential clients, will appreciate who you are.
Think about what makes your brand unique; is it your people? The services you provide? The outstanding experience that clients have once they enter your doors?
Create and share content that shows what makes you unique; allow your audience to meet the team through funny videos, capture clips showing the behind the scenes of running a successful salon or spa, or bring people into your daily routine via photos or videos.
Creating personable content like
this helps to humanise your brand, making clients feel more comfortable, especially when they can see the personalities and expertise of the individuals providing the services. This creates a stronger connection between you and your audience, boosting client loyalty and increasing positive reviews.
#3 Advertise last-minute availability on your Instagram Stories with a ‘link to book’ No-shows and cancellations are the worst, but by announcing last-minute openings on social media, you can quickly fill empty slots in your schedule and maximise your daily bookings and revenue. While this is great for your business, it’s also great for your guests as some clients will prefer spontaneous decisions. They might see that you have a last-minute cancellation for a massage or hair treatment and decide to treat themselves, later associating your business as one that helped them de-stress and engage in self-care, even at short notice.
Broadcasting last-minute availability and making it easy to book with a link straight to your online booking system, ensures your appointment book stays full all day.
ENGLAND
Reverse Damage. Transform Results.
Bournemouth 01202 763442
Brierley
Bristol 0117 951 2222
Carlisle 01228 544134
Crawley 01293 550052
Croydon
in just
2-Step PRO mist + mask service reverses damage in 4 minutes.
Powered by the reparative K18PEPTIDE™, K18REPAIR™ service (K18 PRO mist + PRO mask) strengthens and fortifies hair before and reverses damage after salon services. Giving you the confidence to push transformations further on stronger, healthier hair.
Use both for maximum results - this service is clinically proven to repair damage from bleach + colour, chemical services + heat.
