Find an expert colourist

Hair: Christel Lundqvist @ HOB Salons
Photography: John Rawson

Dear Hair Doctor,

Please could you tell me how I can find an expert colourist?

Many thanks,
Carie-Anne Baker, UK

Hi Carie-Anne,

In addition to the great advice offered here by our hair experts, don't forget to use our powerful search engine and use keywords such as 'Colour Technician' to find colour experts in your area.  We provide details for every salon that's a member with the Good Salon Guide and often you can view achievements such as awards won as well as services offered, etc.

Andrea Selwood, Good Salon Guide

Hi Carie-Anne,

Word of mouth and recommendation is the best way to find a good professional Colour Technician to go to. Likewise, looking for salons who have won prestigious awards including being British Colour Technician of the Year, signifies an expert team is on board, whilst collections and strong photographic imagery will reflect the colouring services and skills on offer. Researching the above factors will help highlight who the experts in the colour field are.

Christel Lundqvist, HOB Salon and Academy

Hi Carie-Anne,

The best way to find an expert colourist is by recommendations from your friends. If you like their hair then ask them what kind of treatment they have. If you decide to choose a new salon you should get a full consultation. This should be at least 15 minutes and can be carried out prior to the treatment.  You can also contact L'Oréal and Wella or your preferred colour name, or check on their website for recommended salons. An expert colourist should have some affiliation with a reputable company.

Clare Lodge, Paul Edmonds

Hi Carie-Anne,

Finding an expert colourist is one thing, but you have to find the person who fits your idea of an expert colourist too. Doing research is a definite yes, reading profiles of people on salon websites is all great. But one of the best pieces of advice I can give you would be to look around you.

If you see someone with a great colour that you love, compliment them and just ask where they get their hair done and more importantly, by whom. This will make them feel a million dollars and you have a great idea of the type of work they produce.

Having a consultation before your actual appointment is always the best idea, as that way you can see if both you and the colourist are on the same wavelength.

Also, once you have found someone you feel comfortable and confident with, try and stick with them. If you get bored with your current colour, always bring new suggestions with you and it should be a match made in hair heaven.

John Clark, Brooks+Brooks

Hi Carie-Anne,

My advice would be to check the internet and read the reviews people have posted. Ask people in the street who have a colour you like. Ask around at work or your friends. Also visit salons for colour consultations and go with your gut feeling.

Anne Veck, Anne Veck Salons