Milk + Blush Meets... Laura Gibson
With it being the start of a new decade, we're guessing you're thinking about making some big hair changes. So, who better to chat to this month than colourist Laura Gibson. She's one of our go-to accounts for colour inspiration and her transformation videos are nothing short of mesmerising. This month she's filling us in on how to fix a hair disaster and the hot tools you need to invest in...
M+B: How did you get your start in the industry? Did you always want to be a hairstylist?
LG: I started working as an assistant at the Jon David Salon in my freshman year of high school when I was 14. I knew by 16 I wanted to be a stylist, growing up I always would do my friends and dolls hair.
M+B: Are there any pro tools in your kit that we could incorporate into our daily hair routines?
LG: Of course! The Hot Tools 32mm Professional curling irons are my favourite and such a good size for creating loose waves. I also love the Wet Brush for when you get out of the shower as it’s so gentle on your hair. I couldn’t live without my favourite hairdryer from Dyson either, it uses more power rather high heat so it’s less damaging.
M+B: What do you think will be the biggest hair colour trends next year?
LG: I think soft warm shades will be making a splash, the perfect balance of brunette and red. Rooted looks will remain popular too, as they’re so easy to maintain. That being said, I get most of my inspiration from my clients. As a colourist, my whole goal is to enhance her natural beauty and bring out her best features.
M+B: Do you have any tips for using hair extensions when you regularly dye your hair?
LG: The most important part of extensions is they need to be handled with care and maintained properly. Don’t brush too aggressively and make sure you touch them up when you’re supposed to.
M+B: Instagram has become such a big part of the industry, what advice would you give to stylists who want to get more work from their social media pages?
LG: Figure out who you want your target audience to be first! Is it clients or other stylists? Then focus on content that THEY would like to see. You also need to network as much as you can, it is SOCIAL media after all...
M+B: What do you think is the biggest mistake people make with their hair colour and what's the best thing to do if you've had a hair disaster?
LG: People will look at a picture and say “I want that” instead of considering their skin tone, eye colour and hair texture. Hair colour is like makeup; it should be used to enhance your natural features or to make a bold statement with a fun colour. If it goes wrong, don’t stress, purchase a good mask and give your hair a little break before you get it fixed. After a few weeks, then go and see a specialist. If you put your hair through too much chemical damage in a short period of time your hair can melt off!
M+B: What are your go-to hair products at the moment?
LG: Since going lighter, I am obsessed with Kerastase Architecte Line, I literally use every product. I couldn’t live without the ORIBE Apres Beach Wave Spray and Shine Spray, I use it every time I curl my hair to add loads of texture.
