Is self-isolation challenging your locks? We asked Thomas Hope, founder of on-demand hair and beauty service Artisté, to give us his top tips for a stress-free lock down

Great British Life: Tom HopeTom Hope (Image: Archant)

‘As a session stylist, I always say that the secret to a perfect long-lasting blow-dry is the perfect home hair-care routine. So at the moment while we are leaving the curlers in the cupboard and we have a little more time on our hands, it’s the perfect time to strengthen your tresses and get them ready for the big return to our usual hot-styling ways.

‘Firstly, though, let’s talk about roots... Please resist colouring them at home! Even though it’s tempting, colour can be the leading cause of hair damage if done incorrectly, and it can also result in costly repair sessions. A quick-fire way to save you from the brassy roots is to use a root cover-up spray like L’Oreal Magic Touch, or if you have highlights a dash of Colour Wow Root Cover-Up is a gem to disguise that growth in the meantime.

Choosing the right products

When choosing products for your hair, you want to reflect on what your hair needs: volume, moisture or repair. When searching the shelves for the perfect product aim for sulphate-free varieties, as sulphates can not only fade your colour, they can irritate your scalp. You can also assist it by munching on foods like spinach, kale and tofu, as they contain iron as well as biotin and zinc, which support healthy hair growth.

Dry Hair

If you find your hair is crying out for some more moisture, introduce a weekly treatment mask. My all-time top mask is the Balmain revitalising mask. The revitalising formula includes an excellent selection of vitamins E, F and P. Vitamin E gives a boost to the hair and revitalises the hair from within. Apply on freshly cleansed hair and leave for 10-15 mins for the desired effect. You can leave it on for a few hours for an intensive result and while it is sunny get outside, as the heat opens the cuticle and allows it to penetrate deeper.

If you fancy creating your own bespoke home remedy, try this magic mix:

Choose castor oil for drier scalps or coarser textures as it restores the scalp and smooths the hair, or coconut oil for finer textures, as it boosts the protein to add strength and shine.

1 ripe avocado

1 tbsp of your chosen oil

1 tbsp honey

2 tbsp coconut milk

Combine all the ingredients in a blender. Comb throughout the hair with a wide-tooth comb. Leave for 20-30 minutes for full effect. Then rinse, shampoo, condition and admire.

Fine hair

To boost finer textures, stimulate the scalp with a relaxing scalp massage. Add a few drops of coconut oil into the scalp and massage in a circular motion for 2-3 minutes before shampooing.

Greasy hair

If you’re feeling brave, extend the time in between washes, allowing the natural oils to accumulate. It’s a commitment, but I promise that once the scalp balances out those oils don’t come back as quickly.

artiste.co.uk