The biggest thing we're working on right now is tying health to hair education. I think the rest of the industry will be doing this in five years.
Our Regenerative Hair Color class is a good example. We go deep into how things affect the body and the hair: hormones, blood work, vitamins, deficiencies, genetics. How do hairdressers use that knowledge, and what should they be noticing when they're working on someone?
We see things first
Hairdressers see hair in immense detail. Sometimes we can see the scalp. We notice when someone's scalp is suddenly sensitive. We notice when someone starts shedding a lot, puts on a little weight, or their energy slows down.
Hairdressers are usually at the front of most things. We see when someone's life is falling apart, when they're going through a breakup or a divorce, when they're having a baby. We see all of it, and we see how the hair changes.
Hairdressers should be the front line of defense. Not prescribing. Pointing.
Pointing, not prescribing
This is the important part. We are not doctors, and we don't diagnose. What we can do is notice, and then say the helpful thing: "Hey, it might be worth talking to your doctor. Maybe get your blood work checked and ask about your hormone levels or your vitamins."
That's it. We point people in the right direction and help them know what questions to ask. A medical professional takes it from there.
If we can help someone make themselves better that way, that's a big deal. The chair is one of the few places people are relaxed enough to talk about what's changing.
Protecting the hair while they sort it out
At the same time, we can use techniques in the salon to take care of that hair. Air weaving (sometimes called AirTouch) lets us isolate and protect hair that needs it while still giving someone beautiful color or a beautiful cut. It's a very precise approach, and it pulls all the health side into one of the most important parts of your identity: your hair.
Learn more in What is regenerative hair color? and air weaving vs. AirTouch.
Nothing in this article is medical advice. If you or a client notice sudden shedding or scalp changes, talk to a doctor.
Want to see how we teach it? Browse Kaizen classes, book private mentoring, or bring us to your team with in-salon education.