Hair tips by Malaysian hair experts
Image adapted from: @rachel.in.summer & @tris_soh
Now that the Government has used the “reverse UNO” card on their decision to allow hairdressers to stay open during the MCO, some Malaysians are griping about how to manage their hair at home.
The idea of cutting your own hair sounds like a daunting challenge for most, which is why these Malaysian hair experts have graciously provided us with tips on how to tackle our locks during MCO. For those who need to look presentable for your work video calls or if you just simply cannot tahan looking like Tarzan, you’ll want to read these 5 mane-saving tips.
1. Good hair hygiene is key
Image credit: @celmd_beauty
Some of us may be guilty of skipping out on hair washing and brushing since we’re stuck at home, but maintaining a clean and healthy scalp is essential to keeping your hair looking good, and you, feeling better. The root (pun intended) of most hair problems such as brittleness, over excessive oil production and hair loss, are caused by wrong usage of products or lack of hair care.
In fact, founder of Shawn Cutler and L’Oreal Professionnel Artistic ambassador, Shawn Loong shares with The Star that keeping your hair and scalp clean is most important during MCO.
The famous rule is to avoid washing daily to prevent overdrying, but make sure you give your locks a deep-clean on those days when you wash it. Use lukewarm water to open up the hair cuticles and gently massage your scalp to remove build-up with a shampoo that’s suited for your hair type.
Just like skin care, shampoos are not a one-size-fits-all. If you’ve got an oily scalp, consider using a purifying shampoo and stay away from moisturising hair products.
2. Use hair clippers for a quick shave
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For the guys who wouldn’t be caught dead in a man bun, your next best bet is to use hair clippers for a quick shave. Clippers come in a range of numbers that should be used according to your hair length and the trick is choosing the right one. Loong advises going for the number 2 clipper as it’s the one that’s most commonly used for haircuts.
Before you turn on those razors, Founder of A Cut Above Salons and Academy, Datin Winnie Loo would prefer for you to practice a safe haircut at home by just clipping off the sides and not risking ruining the top part of your hairstyle.
If you trust your family members enough, get them to help with the longer ends at the back of your head.
3. Layer your fringe for better results
Image credit: @rachel.in.summer
Most girls shouldn’t have a problem with letting their hair grow a little bit longer, but the trouble comes when your fringe starts poking into your eyes.
Although trimming your own fringe may be less intimidating as compared to shaving your hair, Loo recommends point cutting for wispy fringe – which means holding your scissors vertically and trimming bit by bit instead of cutting it in a straight line. This technique can add a whole lot of texture and movement to your hair for bouncier results.
4. Use the right tools
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You may think that you’re on your way to becoming a professional hairdresser as long as you have a pair of regular old scissors and a mirror at home. But Albert Nico, founder of Albert Nico Boutique Salon and L’Oreal Professionnel Artistic ambassador is here to bust your bubble.
Home haircuts should only be limited to simple trims if you don’t plan on completely ruining your hair. To achieve salon-worthy haircuts and styles, the solution lies with skills and the proper tools.
A clipper is a good enough temporary fix for the men, but ladies, you might do a better job if you have a couple of basic hairdressing tools lying around. To start off, a big or medium sized mirror, hair clips, a thin comb, spray bottle and a hair dryer can make all the difference.
5. Disguise the mess with hair products
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If all else fails, hair products might just do the trick. Michael Poh, president of the Malaysian Hairdressing Association (MHA) and founder of Hair Zone Studio conducted a video tutorial on Facebook to share some basic tips on how to best manage your hair.
If home cutting is not an option for you, there are plenty of products that can help with the mess. For the guys, he recommends moulding mud, gel, clay, mousse, or spray to keep hair upwards and in place. Start off with a small amount first, then keep layering as you go along until you’re satisfied. If you want the perfect finish, mist your hair with a light layer of hair mist or spray, and don’t touch it until it’s dried.
For the ladies, hair cream works to tame the frizz. Just towel-dry wet hair, rub the cream on your palms and run them through your hair evenly. You can even scrunch your hair as you’re applying the product to achieve wavy tresses or brush it down for straight locks.
Image credit: @msqueenhaircompany
Or put your creative skills to the test by trying out various styles like braiding it, tying it up, using hair clips and more. Instead of the everyday lazy ponytail, try an easy high ponytail with a braided base. All you have to do is just tie a really high, Ariana Grande-like ponytail, braid a segment of your hair and wrap it around the base of your ponytail. Minimal effort, chic results!
Malaysian hair experts share tips on managing hair at home
The MCO may prevent us from our usual self-care sessions with trusted professionals, but that doesn’t mean that we have to look unkempt throughout this lockdown.
These highly reputable Malaysian hair experts are here to help with a bunch of basic tips and advice on how to cut, trim, style and manage our hair at home, so we can still look fab in quarantine.
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