OFFERS, ADVICE AND NEWS
2020 / CORONAVIRUS UPDATE
Hi Canberrans! Well... Where to start...? 2020 - huh.... what a year.
Hi Canberrans! Well... Where to start...? 2020 - huh.... what a year.
First the bushfire season from hell - and for Canberrans - horrendous 2003 flashbacks to red skies, looking like midnight in the middle of the day and smoke so thick you couldn't see a couple meters ahead of yourself. Scary times, and so much devastation for people who lost everything, and the bushland we lost, and the animals... the animals :( So.. just as we dust the proverbial ash out of our hair and try to keep plowing on and staying positive about 2020 the corona craze overtakes the whole world. I just don't even know what to say. Except, what a calamity.
It's confusing these days... The infamous 30 minute rule, which lasted less than 24 hours I'm pretty sure, and then the further regulations and the $11,000 fine - keeping up with the government regulations, recommendations, rules... who knows which is which? It's like trying to build a castle on a bed of sand. But I'm keeping close tabs on what's going on here! And for now, HOME HAIR CANBERRA IS STILL OPERATIONAL! I will still be taking appointments and coming out to see you around Canberra for as long as I can!
A few things about the actual appointment - I will be wearing a mask while standing over you if you want - I don't have coronavirus but I want you to feel safe and comfortable during our appointment. I have always been crazy about hand washing, and that definitely won't change, so if you can provide some kind of hand soap that would be amazing. If you have any other issues please do get in touch with me before the appointment and I'm sure there's something we can do or discuss to help you feel comfortable during your appointment.
Really the only other thing to say is STAY SAFE Canberra. Home Hair Canberra loves you all and wants everyone to stay safe during this crazy time.
What a time to be alive.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
New Decade, New Hair
If you're a regular you probably know what's been going on around here... If you're new around here - let me tell you, I fortuitously got rid of a very toxic person from my life... Just in time for a new year and a new decade.
If you're a regular you probably know what's been going on around here... If you're new around here - let me tell you, I fortuitously got rid of a very toxic person from my life... Just in time for a new year and a new decade. I couldn't be happier and I couldn't be more grateful. While my Christmas and New Years weren't so crash hot, I arose from the ashes in that time. I am now ready to spread my new wings and take 2020 by the proverbial balls to make it the very best year yet.
For Home Hair Canberra that means seeing all my beautiful regulars a bit more regularly! I am so slack and I don't follow up with people about their next appointment, so expect to hear from me more regularly! It's my new years resolution - try and be more organized!
It also means chasing new business! I am all algorithm-ed up, AdWords literate and writing my own website blog (ha) and I am ready to meet all you new Home Hair Canberra clients.
This year, I will also be expanding what I do and where I do it. Hospital? No problems! Home with kids? No probs! Chronic illness and/or low mobility? Again, I got your back! Any situation where you can't (or simply don't want to) get to a salon, call me! (0406420024) and we can see what we can do to help you out and get you the best hair you can have!
I can't explain how excited I am this year, I have 100% focus on my business, I want to make it amazing and I want to make your home hair experience amazing. This is going to be a short and sweet post, but I just wanted to share with you how excited I am for this year, and I hope all of you have a fabulous year too.
At the risk of sounding really cheesy, go get 'em! I have recently realized how short life is and how much time you can waste being miserable. Live your best life (with the best hair you can possibly have)!
love, Bec
Winter Colour Hair Inspiration
At some point, we all have to crawl out from under the doona and so I take solace in a few winter rituals to make this bearable.
My mood can get a little low in the dark days of mid-winter. On days when the temperature never gets to double figures, it's easy to think laying in bed is the best way to spend the day. But inevitably, at some point, we all have to crawl out from under the doona and so I take solace in a few winter rituals to make this bearable.
Each morning I enjoy a few moments sitting quietly in the sunshine. The sun pours into our spare bedroom at this time of year. It really brightens my outlook and helps me get a good dose of vitamin D. I'll also have a mug of my new favourite winter drink - roasted dandelion and chicory with milk and sugar. It's my coffee alternative and warms me up in the morning.
Then it's usually time to gear up and head out to meet one of my beautiful clients. Which brings me to the subject of this post - the winter colour inspirations clients are sharing with me.
I really believe these rich hair colours can transform your mood and everyone around you. Winter doesn't have to be a time for boring hair. We often wear a lot of dark colours this time of year, and your hair can really complement your wardrobe with some winter inspired tones.
Cinnamon chocolate
Cinnamon and chocolate are classic flavours to savour in warm milk on a cold evening just before bed. But they can also create a stunning effect in hair. This example is rich and warm. It's full of texture and would look great tied up, braided or worn long and loose.
Sunset spectrum
Canberra sunsets are just so spectacular, particularly in winter when the crisp air and high clouds radiate colours from bright pink and magenta to burnt orange and reds. Pretty much any colour on this spectrum is ripe for hair colour inspiration. Debra Messing nailed this back in February (her winter) with this stunning burnt orange full colour. Blown out like this it's simply radiant and will turn heads on the dreariest of winter days.
Caramel ombre
And then there is caramel...the most delicious of colours! Maybe my love of caramel fudge sundaes makes me a little biased but I believe this hair, with dark roasted coffee roots fading to a light caramel towards the ends is almost perfect. It's playful, stylish and easy to maintain.
So there you have it; Three winter colour inspirations to warm you up. But there is plenty of other inspiration out there. I recommend taking some time out of your day to sit in the sun, enjoy a warm drink and unleash your creativity. You might decide it's time for a fresh new colour yourself. And, if so I would be delighted to help :)
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
A Cheap Hairdresser or a Great Value Hair Service?
Less money spent on your hair today means more in your pocket tomorrow. But is a cheap haircut going to be worth it?
There is a big difference between a cheap hairdresser and a great value hair cut or colour. On the one hand, cheap sounds good. Less money spent on your hair today means more in your pocket tomorrow. But is a cheap haircut going to be worth it?
To see my current prices head over to my mobile hairdressing services.
What services do you need? Just a haircut? A full head of foils? Maybe you're trying to rescue your hair from previous damage? Each requires specialised skills and the costs vary greatly.
And there is more to consider than just $$$. What about your time? With travel, waiting and the time to complete your service many people spend up to five hours having their hair done every six weeks. That's more than a full day each year!
So, are you looking for a cheap hairdresser or are you looking for a great value hair service?
The difference between a cheap hairdresser and great value
A cheap hairdresser is like buying a shirt from Supré. Sure it covers your boobs (well mostly), but you know it won't ever be the same after a wash. Great value is buying a pair of G-Star jeans. You know they'll hold their shape long after you've donated them to Vinnie's. Cheap is McDonalds Loose Change Menu. Great value is the buffet at the Burn's Club. I think you get the picture.
When it comes to hairdressing, value is a combination of:
skills and experience of the hairdresser
quality of products used
attention you receive during the service
value of your time
results
and price (obviously).
A more expensive hair service isn't automatically better either. For example, I use ColourDesign to colour most clients. It's a professional brand with a 20-year history of vibrancy, shine, and rich lustrous results. But, it's also one of the least expensive professional products on the market. For the same reason, I don't use Olaplex because I don't feel it significantly improves the quality of my service.
My choice of product means, I don't have to charge my clients for unnecessary product costs, but I can still offer a high-quality service.
The extra value of mobile hairdressing
For many people, mobile hairdressing offers a value that you won't find in a salon. Mobile hairdressing saves you time and lots of hassle. It's flexible with your schedule. Plus, you can have a private and personal service at home without the noise and distraction of a salon.
Saving you time (and potentially money)
What's the value of your time? Is it just your hourly wage? Is it worth more to avoid busy car parks, being asked to wait long after your appointment time, the constant whine of a hairdryer, the nosey looks of strangers in mirrors? Do you have to find someone to look after kids? Or do you have to sacrifice your own work to fit in with a salons schedule?
You avoid all this when a hairdresser comes to your home. That traffic and parking is my problem. Plus, you could check your kid's homework, catch up on MAFS or mix a mojito while your hair processes. Seriously, I've had clients book their colour appointments together and it was more like a party than a visit to a salon!
How much time you spend on your hair starts to add up quickly. Having your hair cut or coloured at home can save you time and money.
100% about you
In a Salon, to maximise income, your hairdresser may be working on up to three clients at the same time. You're certainly not their priority at every moment. Not to mention the salons where you are passed on from one staff member to another and you hope everyone is on the same page.
Most salon staff, most of the time, will be able to handle this and give you their best services, but sadly I've heard many stories from clients of toner left on too long, or even the wrong colour being used when instructions have been confused with a client in another chair.
In these situations, no-one has ownership of the final product, and that product is your hair! It's a little scary. You wouldn't accept the same things from your dentist so why should you be okay with it at a salon?
When you have an appointment with me you get 100 per cent of my time and attention. My only goal is delivering you outstanding hair every time and this level of attention comes at no extra cost.
You have plenty of choices
There are over 200 hairdressers listed in Canberra. Some are more expensive than others but to stay busy, most salons price their services competitively, and I am no exception.
Although I have fewer overheads (no rent, chair fee, rates etc), I do have to run my vehicle and I can't benefit from stacking up multiple clients at the same time. Also, I have to consider the time I spend travelling between appointments. I don't charge a travel fee because travelling is part of being a mobile hairdresser but I do have a minimum service fee of $50.
Always ask for a quote up front. You have a right to know the expected costs of a service, before that service commences. In a salon, a price list is just a guide so you should check the cost with your hairdresser after they've consulted you on what you want done.
If you're offered additional services during the appointment (such as a treatment or massage) check if it's included in quoted price. You should never be surprised with additional costs when it's time to pay.
So, while a cheap hairdresser will set you back a little less, you have to consider if it's the best value hair service. Does it save you time, are you getting a personal service and 100 per cent focus from your hairdresser.
I really feel the value my mobile hairdressing service offers easily matches any comparable salon service.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
Going Blond (Part 2)
First, do not attempt it yourself...please. Box colours are dangerous and can cause scalp burns, chemical haircuts and even brain damage.
How do you get to blonde?
First, do not attempt it yourself...please. Box colours are dangerous and can damage hair that is already compromised. More seriously, they can cause scalp burns, chemical haircuts and even brain damage.
When I'm colouring your hair I will assess:
your hair condition. I will never use a bleaching product stronger than necessary. I will sometimes add a treatment into the bleach to help maintain protein structure and hair integrity
your inspo pic. I will be able to give you a fairly good idea if the colour you chose will suit your colouring and skin tone
These considerations will then affect the amount of time it will take to achieve your look.
Things that will also affect your treatment plan:
Have you previously coloured your hair? Box dyed? This shouldn't a problem but please be honest about what you've put in your hair.
Naturally, dark hair will take (usually) more than one session to achieve a true blonde
Damaged hair - It is rare that I will flat out refuse to bleach hair, but if I do it is for good reason. I will be genuinely concerned your hair/scalp is at risk of being burned or hair breaking off.
A few notes about chemistry.
(With a few exceptions) BLEACH is the only way to lighten hair. Peroxide is not bleach. It is used to ''activate'' bleaching powder.
Your hair will most likely go yellow. Toner is used to remedy this. Toner is a very light hair colour that will rectify the 'tone'.
yellow -> purple
orange -> blue
red -> green
Toner will not damage your hair at all. It contains no bleach and will fade in time.
Getting Blonde Hair Ready For Summer
Although Canberra doesn't have much by way of an ocean it doesn't mean you can't have that summery, sun-kissed look!
Although Canberra doesn't have much by way of an ocean it doesn't mean you can't have that summery, sun-kissed look! When the warmer months roll around you might start considering brilliant blonde hair.
If you have naturally light hair, going blonde can be pretty straightforward. Often, if you're swimming and spending lots of time outside the sun will do some of the work for you. But, if like me, you have very dark hair, you can only be blonde with the help of a few chemical processes and some patience.
Today I'll answer the most common question I'm asked:
How blonde should I go?
If you've never had blonde hair, once you start to actually look, you'll realise there are a thousand 'blondes' to consider. In celebrity magazines and Instagram, you find blonde ranging from a few highlights and foils in darker hair all the way to the full platinum end of the scale. It can look natural, incorporating thick roots and darker layers, or rival the power of the sun in its brilliance.
In fact, there is probably no end to variations of blonde and each summer there are many 'new' trends led by Hollywood starlets and football WAGS.
But, not all styles and colours suit everyone. When you're considering colour, pay attention to:
the shape of your face
your skin tone
natural hair colour
hair condition
and everyday hairstyle.
This will help you find the blonde that suits you. Or you can message me and we can discuss the best options for you.
What to consider before you go blonde
Face shape
If you have a round face, bob length or very short styles can exacerbate the roundness. However, a long bob or layers can elongate your face. To begin with, choose a style that suits your face. You will be much happier with the overall look after having your hair coloured.
Skin tone and colour
There are two types of skin tone; warm undertone and cool undertone. Generally, people with warm undertone skin are complemented with cool tone hair and vice versa.
Tones are very subtle though. Don't be concerned that you will have to have yellow hair if your skin is cool toned. Also, fake and real tans can change this equation. So be sure to let your hairdresser know if you're also going to get a strong tan.
Natural hair colour
Naturally lighter hair has less defined regrowth and needs less maintenance to keep your hair looking fantastic all summer long.
The statement you want to make is also a big factor. Consider styles that look natural, with subtle foils or balayage, compared to full ash blonde hair. More natural looks are more forgiving to damage and casual styles. Statement hair generally needs to be carefully styled and maintained.
I can help you consider different options to suit your lifestyle and hair routine.
Hair condition
Every time your hair is coloured it is slightly damaged. This is unavoidable but not always a bad thing.
The chemistry involved in removing your hair's natural pigment and embedding new colour affects the proteins in your hair. A little bit of damage actually softens hair and can make it easier to manage. A lot of damage will cause scalp irritation, hair loss, breakage and failed colour processing.
Moving from very dark hair to very light hair can be achieved without harmful effects. It's necessary though to do this in a responsible, staged approach and give the hair time between appointments to recover. This can take two or more sessions depending on your starting colour and hair condition.
Everyday hairstyle
To help you select the style and colour that suits you, use images as inspiration. You should consider the styling and lighting of the photo and how this will compare with your usual hairstyle. At the end of the day, which blonde tone and style you go for really is personal preference. And, with a little research you'll be able to select a style that matches you perfectly.
In a future update, I will explain the process of going blonde. I'll show you how get to lighter shades without compromising your hair or safety.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
Creating Distinct Hair For Every Client
I've been to many clients with very distinct needs. In this post I share the results for clients who came to me with unique hair histories and intentions for how they want it to look now and in the future. Each of these appointments had to be approached in completely different ways, even though each client essentially wanted the same thing: beautiful and healthy hair.
Ash blonde colour correction
This client had quite long regrowth and brassy ends. The challenge was to bring both the regrowth and the previously bleached and toned hair to the same colour and texture. To achieve this I started with a full head of foils before toning the whole head to silver ash perfection.
Ash blonde colour correction by Home Hair Canberra
Blonde ombre
This colour was a touch up for an ombre not originally done by me. Building on another hairdressers work isn't usually difficult if the previous work was professionally done. I better integrated the ombre blend, cooled the brown base colour and toned the ends further. I finished this with a light trim to refresh the cut.
Blonde ombre by Home Hair Canberra
Root touch up and fine weave foils
This client was very particular about the foils as she enjoys a very subtle look. I went through and did a super fine weave foil technique. This technique can take more time but the result is a very natural look with the fine foils catching the light and enhancing the base colour.
Root touch up with foils by Home Hair Canberra
Subtle ombre
This client came to me after previously using a supermarket box dye. Recolouring hair like this can be a challenge because you're often guessing the type and strength of the active ingredients that were used. But for this client, carefully using the right toner and lifting combination I was able to achieve a really nice colour in the first session.
Subtle ombre by Home Hair Canberra
Despite everyone's hair being made of the same keratin, no two appointments are ever the same. It's exciting to work with a new client and apply my professional skills and experience to creating hair they love.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
How’s Your Experience With Home Hair Canberra?
My business thrives on reviews. They help people find my business online, and provide me with crucial feedback to improve my services.
After your appointment, I would love to get a review from you. It’s easy to do, just select a service below, click the link and submit your message.
You can also send feedback directly to me by email.
Fresh Spring Hair Styles
Although spring has arrived it's still pretty chilly around my place. That hasn't stopped me going crazy in the garden, preparing our small veggie patch for new plantings.
Spring is a period of renewal, so it's a great time to consider a shorter style or a fresh colour. Now is a good time to try something new because you have a few months before the silly season to play with the style.
If you're considering going blonde for summer, now is the time to start the process. It could take a few sessions to get the colour you want while preserving the health of your hair.
To get you inspired for change here is a round up of my favourite styles this spring.
The bob
I just love Ladylike. If you haven't checked these girls out you should do yourself a favour and binge on their Youtube fabulousness.
But more importantly, I wish I could pull off Devin's casually perfect bob. The dark roots, blunt fringe and length somewhere between chin and shoulders always look relaxed and fun. But with the right product and styling, it becomes red-carpet glamorousness.
At shoulder length, you'll still be able to put your hair up in a ponytail when you need to. Shorter hair will be perfect for swimming and playing outdoors. Plus it'll dry that much quicker after a wash :)
For darker hair, Nina Dobrev demonstrates just how slick this can look.
Wash and wear
Okay so this isn't really a single style but often it's all I have time for in the morning.
As it gets warmer and Canberra stirs from its winter hibernation I'm sure you don't want to spend time blow-drying, straightening and styling your hair when you could be out having an adventure. Wash and wear is the answer but it isn't as simple as it sounds.
What makes or breaks this style is the right haircut. You're looking for a longer natural style. Trimming split ends and taking the weight out of hair will make it easier to care for. And adding long layers gives hair shape and creates instant style.
Introducing different colour tones also adds sophistication to your hair. Lighter tones will catch the light and darker tones give depth and body.
Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are the queens of wash and wear hair. It is their go-to style and matches their boho attitude to being papped.
When she doesn't have a full hair and makeup crew on hand, Valentina Zelyaeva is also no stranger to wash and wear.
Medium cut highlights
This is a perfect mid-way point for those who've had long hair and now want to experiment with something a little shorter. Adding messy layers will feel fresh and new but you'll still have the length and texture of longer hair.
You can also add a little colour to your hair with a few highlights towards the front. It's a good baby step if you haven't coloured hair in a while and can be enhanced later in the season with balayage throughout the rest of your hair.
This cut offers heaps of variety and can be styled easily in a loose bun, braided or worn loose and carefree around the shoulders. The cut and colour will frame your face and certainly be noticed.
This beautiful example is from Canadian hairdresser Brae Erickson.
If you've been inspired to make a change this spring get in touch for a no-obligation quote. We can work together to select a fresh cut and colour for the season.
I hope you get out and enjoy the warmer weather and longer days now that winter is behind us :)
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.
What Is a Mobile Hairdresser?
A mobile hairdresser is a convenient alternative to visiting a hair salon. If you have children or work full-time it can be hard to fit into a salon's schedule. That's why mobile hairdressing (or home hairdresser) services are becoming so popular.
As a mobile service, there are a few differences to visiting a hair salon but you'll get the same beautiful hair with some extra benefits.
Convenience
You can have your hair done at a time and place that suits you.
Home Hair Canberra offers appointments seven days a week and can visit you anywhere in the Canberra region. You won't have to worry about taking time off work, running late, finding a park or child minding. You can drink a glass of wine, play your favourite music, and keep an eye on the dinner.
Usually, I come to your home but I've also been asked to visit hotel rooms, hospitals, workplaces and even Parliament House.
Privacy
A mobile hairdressing appointment is a private and personal service.
Salons can be loud and busy and we all know those mirrors mean nothing is private. Home Hair Canberra's services are a discreet and professional way to get fantastic hair.
Comfort
You'll have all the comforts of home. You can stay in your pyjamas and slippers, and a chair in your kitchen is the perfect place for a cut, colour or blow wave.
Washing your hair is a whole lot easier too when you can just pop into the shower. This is how you'll prepare for a mobile hairdressing visit and how you'll rinse any colour, toner and treatments applied during your appointment.
Mobile hairdresser services
A mobile hairdresser offers most of the services available in a salon.
Home Hair Canberra offers trims, cuts, colour and styles. I specialise in colour refresh and colour correction including foils, balayage, ombre and full colour. Unfortunately, I'm unable to offer permanent curls or hair extensions as this isn't practical for my business.
So, if you want a convenient, private and comfortable mobile hairdresser service, contact me for a quote or appointment. Don't hesitate to ask if you have any questions and take a look at other posts on this website for advice, news and offers from Home Hair Canberra.
You can also connect with me on Facebook where you can see recent client results and reviews.
If you would like to make an appointment you can book online or call 0406 420 024.