1 mins
The colour GENIUS
HJ chatted to Tracey Devine-Smith, ASP global ambassador about colour innovations and client challenges
Do you think client's attitudes to colour have changed since the pandemic. If so, how?
In the pandemic, hair salons were obviously closed for vast periods of time, and stylists were not able to see their clients. Even post-pandemic, people might not visit the salon as much as they did before, due to stretching out time between appointments. However, as soon as we are getting clients back in and accustomed to their colouring, they are remembering the importance of visiting the salon regularly and in turn we see them getting back on track to visiting regularly. This has also meant retail has started to grow again. In particular, we have seen an increased demand for ultranourishing treatments within the ASP Kitoko range. This can be attributed to clients’ delayed return to salons, with clients’ needing extra help between visits at home.
“IT HAS NEVER BEEN HARDER TO BALANCE THE COST OF CONSUMABLES WITH CLIENT EXPECTATIONS.”
How has colour changed in the last decade?
New technology has created a higher standard for colour in the last ten years. Colour is so much more varied now, with the addition of new techniques. For example, stylists now tend to use a clay bleach for balayage, which can be achieved with ASP’s Spirit Lights. As a result, we have had to charge accordingly to keep up with the new devices and practices in the ever-changing field of hair styling.
What are the challenges colourists are facing in 2022?
Definitely pricing. It has never been harder to balance the cost of consumables with client expectations vs Instagram, while still staying competitive. We are very lucky that ASP remain competitive on pricing levels.
What colour innovations are making your work more creative?
After being in the field for thirty-eight years now, I have noticed that colour performance and technology are improving all the time. However, when it comes down to it, I believe the stylist remains at the heart of colour creativity.