Why We Stick With Tradition

Why We Stick With Tradition

WHY WE STICK WITH TRADITION

Choosing the right pair of scissors is key to the kind of results you can achieve behind the chair, and when it comes to Kasho scissors, every detail is crafted with a purpose. There’s a lot that goes into creating these high-quality tools, and understanding the production methods—particularly drop forging versus CNC machining—can shed some light on why we put our full trust in one over the other.

The Legacy of Drop Forging: Built to Last

Drop forging is one of the oldest and strongest metalworking methods out there. Imagine a heated piece of metal being shaped under intense pressure by a heavy hammer—this is drop forging. It compresses the metal grains, aligning them to create an incredibly tough and dense structure. This means that drop-forged scissors can take the daily grind of salon life without losing their edge. In fact, the process is so reliable that the strength, durability, and balance it achieves make these scissors a favourite among pros who need tools they can count on day in, day out.

At Kasho, we embrace this traditional craft wholeheartedly. Drop forging aligns with the Japanese heritage of precision and craftsmanship, resulting in scissors that offer lasting sharpness and performance. This process takes a little longer and requires serious skill, but we believe the quality speaks for itself.

WHY DROP FORGING?

STRENGTH & QUALITY The aligned metal grains make for a far stronger, more resilient scissor.

BALANCE Each pair is crafted with uniformity in mind, giving you the perfect feel and control in hand.

TRADITION Not just about strength but about preserving the artistry and dedication that Kasho is known for.

LONGEVITY Greater longevity because the forging process aligns and compresses the metal’s grain structure

SHARPNESS Enhances sharpness by creating a finer, more durable edge that maintains its precision far longer

CNC Machining: Precision, But at a Cost

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining, on the other hand, is the more modern approach. Here, a computer-guided machine carves each part of the scissor from a single piece of metal. CNC machining is affordable, quick, and good for achieving consistent shapes and fine details, but it’s just not built to deliver the same durability as drop forging. While CNC tools may look and feel precise, they don’t have that dense, aligned metal grain that gives drop-forged scissors their unbeatable resilience and longevity.

So, while CNC tools have their place in manufacturing mass-market tools, at Kasho, we’re all about quality and durability. That’s why we stick to drop forging—to ensure our scissors have the strength to go the distance and deliver unparalleled sharpness.

Kasho’s Choice: Drop Forging for Quality You Can Trust

For us, crafting scissors isn’t just about getting the job done; it’s about creating a tool that feels like an extension of your artistry. By using the drop-forging process, we ensure that every pair of Kasho scissors is built to last, delivering strength, balance, and unmatched quality. It’s a commitment to both tradition and the hairdressers who rely on us to support their craft.

When you choose Kasho, you’re choosing scissors with a legacy of craftsmanship, a dedication to excellence, and a promise of longevity. Drop forging may take a bit more time and skill, but for us and for stylists around the world, it’s more than worth it.

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Brooks & Brooks – A Cutting Course

To Cut or Not to Cut …

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Brooks & Brooks – A Cutting Course

Brooks & Brooks – A Cutting Course

CUTTING THROUGH THE NOISE: A DAY AT BROOKS & BROOKS

What a day! After spending a couple of days at Salon International—where there was this underlying buzz about the need to refocus on foundational craftsmanship—Monday’s cutting course at the legendary Brooks & Brooks salon, led by none other than Jamie Brooks and the insanely talented Roman Sys, couldn’t have felt more on point.

As a brand, Kasho has over the past few years taken on a slightly different approach. Yes, of course we want to sell scissors and cutting tools, and we firmly believe—based on the brand’s rich history—that they’re the best scissors in the world. But our focus runs deeper than just selling cutting tools. We aim to elevate the overall level of craftsmanship, and in the process align ourselves with like-minded individuals who share that same vision. People like Sally and Jamie Brooks, people like Roman Sys. People who cut through (no pun intended) the noise and let their talent and craft do the talking.

In recent years, newcomers to the industry often have a different frame of reference for what “great” looks like. A stylist with hundreds of thousands of likes on Instagram or TikTok doesn’t necessarily mean their work lives up to the hype. In marketing, it’s called “the sizzle and the sausage.” Right now, there’s way too much focus on the sizzle—the razzle-dazzle, the hype. Monday’s training was the polar opposite; it focused on the sausage—the nuts and bolts, the foundation upon which real craftsmanship is built. It was an intimate, hands-on session where the spotlight was firmly on technical skill and mindset. Both Jamie and Roman have such a disarming presence, instantly creating an environment where all guards are down, allowing for pure, uninterrupted learning.

The course, co-hosted by Kasho, was titled “Precision & Edge: Mastering the Craft of Precision Cutting,” but wow, it was so much more than that! The golden nuggets of wisdom shared throughout the day went far beyond mastering cutting techniques. It was about using every tool in the toolbox—scissors, razors, texturizers—you name it. The message that kept hitting home was: “never stop learning,” always push yourself, and, of course, the Brooks & Brooks mantra: There is Beauty in Simplicity. It was so refreshing to hear that feeling nervous when you’re levelling up is exactly how you should feel—just don’t let it stop you. Embrace it! 

These life lessons, shared by Jamie and Roman, were woven into the technical training all day, making every tip and trick stick even more. You could see the participants soaking it all in, eager to embrace both the craft and the mindset.

So, what’s the big takeaway from a training day like this? It’s more than just mastering tools like scissors, razors, or texturizers—it’s about honing your craft and pushing your skills to new heights. The real beauty lies in the simplicity of good technique, and the nerves you feel when stepping up? They’re a sign you’re on the right path. Whether learning from masters like Jamie and Roman or using the finest tools like Kasho, the focus remains on elevating the craft. Here’s to that never-ending journey—and to keeping the focus on what truly matters.

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To Cut or Not to Cut …

Why Invest in Your Scissors?

Boosting Success

Professional Smoothing – A Brief History

The Changes We Face

5 Hair Trends Heading Into Spring

Caring for your Body

Miley Cyrus goes big

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The Rachel is Back

To Cut or Not to Cut …

To Cut or Not to Cut …

TO CUT OR NOT TO CUT … THAT IS THE QUESTION

Let’s dive into a question many of your clients ask themselves: should they cut their hair or not? With platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok buzzing with strangers giving unsolicited hair advice, your clients might be coming to you with external opinions that complicate their decision-making. But at the end of the day, we all know the truth—the only person who can really decide is the client. Your role, as their trusted stylist, is to help them weigh the pros and cons of their next big hair move and guide them through the process with professional expertise.

Without diving too deep into the psychology behind it, the first question we should be asking our clients is simple: why? Are they just bored and looking for a change, or is there something more significant driving them to make this decision? Let’s break down some of the most common reasons clients want to go for the chop, and how we, as hair professionals, can help guide them through these choices.

“I’ve had long hair forever—it’s time for a change.”

This is probably the most exciting reason for a haircut. When a client is craving a fresh look, it opens the door to endless creative possibilities. If they’ve experimented with different lengths before, this may not be too overwhelming for them. It’s a solid reason to cut, but here’s where your expertise comes in: ensure they’ve truly thought about the style. Ask for at least 5 inspiration images of what they want to achieve. If they haven’t thought that far ahead, suggest trying new styling options, accessories, or even a bold lip colour to satisfy that itch for change before taking the scissors to their hair.

“I can’t do anything with my hair anymore.”

We’ve all heard this one. Start by asking when their last cut was. If it’s been a while and their hair was manageable right after the last trim, they might just need a shape-up. A well-placed trim can make all the difference in how hair behaves. On the other hand, if styling has consistently been a challenge, it could be time to offer them a more dramatic transformation. Guide them toward a look that will fit their lifestyle and be easier to maintain daily. And don’t forget to advise on regular maintenance schedules—often, it’s a lack of consistent care that leads to frustration.

“I’m having a rough week, and I need a change.”

This is a red flag for us as stylists. Clients who are emotionally charged might think a haircut will fix everything, but we know big hair changes should come from a place of positivity. Whether they’ve had a tough week, started a new job, or are going through a breakup, remind them that impulsive decisions can lead to regret. Suggest holding off until they feel better. When they make the change during a more stable, happy moment, the new look will be a visual marker of a positive time, rather than something they associate with a rough patch.

“What if it doesn’t suit me?”

It’s tough when a client is hesitant to try something new because they fear it won’t look good. This is where you step in with your professional eye. Your job is to find the right cut and style that flatters their unique features and personality. Reassure them that you’re not just cutting hair—you’re shaping a look that enhances their best features. Encourage them to gather inspiration photos and trust your expertise. Remind them that they’re in good hands, and that part of your role is to help them see their own potential.

“What if I regret it?”

A lot of clients worry about post-cut regret. You can ease their concerns by framing the haircut as a celebration of something positive, whether it’s achieving a personal goal or reaching a milestone. Timing is key—encourage them to make the change when they’re feeling confident and in control. Also, be transparent about the realities of the new style they’re considering. Shorter doesn’t always mean easier—sometimes it requires more upkeep than they expect. The more informed they are, the less likely they’ll regret the decision.

“What if my partner doesn’t like it?”

Here’s where you might need to play the role of a confidence booster. If a client is hesitant to make a change because of someone else’s opinion, it’s time to remind them that their hair is an expression of their personal style and identity. The right partner should support whatever makes them feel amazing. Encourage them to make the decision based on their own preferences and sense of self, not to please someone else. When they own their look, confidence will naturally follow—and that’s the most attractive feature of all.

Final Thoughts

As professionals, we know that the ultimate decision lies with the client. Our role is to guide them with insight, skill, and honesty. Haircuts can be empowering, refreshing, and fun—but they can also be overwhelming if they’re made for the wrong reasons. Timing and intention are everything. Encourage your clients to take their time, be clear on their motivations, and consult you whenever they need advice.

If they’re on the fence, suggest smaller changes first—whether it’s a new outfit, hair accessory, or tweak to their care routine. And let them know you’re always available for a consultation to provide a second opinion. By working together, you can help them make the best decision and keep their hair journey moving forward with confidence and style.

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Why Invest in Your Scissors?

Boosting Success

Professional Smoothing – A Brief History

The Changes We Face

5 Hair Trends Heading Into Spring

Caring for your Body

Miley Cyrus goes big

The Artistry of Japanese Steel Blades

The Rachel is Back

Stay Relevant with Digital Marketing

Why Invest in Your Scissors?

Why Invest in Your Scissors?

Why Investing in Quality Scissors is a Game Changer for Stylists

Hey everyone, let’s talk about something crucial for all stylists: investing in your tools. While many stylists spend big on electric tools like hairdryers and straighteners, the importance of a good pair of scissors is often overlooked, despite their significant role in our daily work.

The Overlooked Tool: Scissors

Most stylists start their careers with a basic pair of scissors and replace them annually. Surprisingly, many can’t even recall the brand or size of their scissors, yet they are intimately familiar with their hairdryers and straighteners. This is concerning given how frequently scissors are used.

Scissors: Your Most Important Tool

Consider this: you’ll use your scissors for approximately 1,600 hours or 96,000 minutes annually, which equates to 67 full days a year. Quality scissors are vital for comfort, efficiency, and performance. On average, stylists make around 2,400 cuts per year, translating to 10 cuts a day, five days a week, for 48 weeks. This makes scissors the most used and most profitable tool in your kit.

Financial Perspective

Let’s break down the numbers. If an average haircut costs £32, your scissors can generate £76,800 annually. Investing in high-quality scissors like Kasho, which can last up to 10 years, means your tool could help generate £768,000 over its lifetime. Spending £500-£1,000 on top-notch scissors becomes a small investment for such returns. With financing options, it’s equivalent to the cost of one haircut per month.

Why the Hesitation?

Despite the benefits, many talented stylists continue using beveled blade, non-ergonomic, weaker steel scissors. This choice often leads to hand fatigue and shoulder tension, much like a professional chef using an inferior knife instead of a premium KAI chef knife. The lack of emphasis on the right tools from the start of a stylist’s education contributes to this issue.

The Right Tool for the Job

A talented stylist remains talented regardless of the tools, but the right scissors enhance the ease, efficiency, and precision of their work. Investing in high-quality scissors not only improves your performance but also promotes better wellness by reducing physical strain.

Make the Smart Investment

Using the right tools is essential for achieving professional success and maintaining your health. To learn more, visit our blog and explore our content on choosing the best tools. We also offer a WhatsApp function for direct consultation to help you make the right investment in your scissors.

Investing in quality scissors is not just about improving your craft—it’s about making a smart business decision that supports your long-term health and success.

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Boosting Success

Professional Smoothing – A Brief History

The Changes We Face

5 Hair Trends Heading Into Spring

Caring for your Body

Miley Cyrus goes big

The Artistry of Japanese Steel Blades

The Rachel is Back

Stay Relevant with Digital Marketing

The Art of Texturizing

Boosting Success

Boosting Success

BOOSTING SUCCESS: THE POWER OF POSITIVE GOOGLE REVIEWS

Hey salon owners! If you’re active on hairdressing forums, you’ve probably seen the buzz and increased chatter about sure ways to fill appointment slots whilst optimising spending on Meta ads, especially Instagram and Facebook. While these platforms are key, don’t sleep on another powerhouse: Google.

Why Google Should Be Your Go-To Platform

For local salons, Google is a game-changer. It’s easier, cheaper, and incredibly effective once you get the ball rolling. A major reason for this is Google Reviews.

The Impact of Reviews

In 2024, reviews are everything. They’re an organic and powerful way to attract new clients and build your salon’s reputation. People rely heavily on reviews when choosing a new salon, so having a strong presence on Google is crucial.

Setting Up Your Google Business Profile

Here’s a quick guide to get you started:

1. Claim Your Business: Head over to Google My Business and claim your salon. If it’s not listed, you can create a new profile easily.

2. Complete Your Profile: Fill out all the necessary details—salon name, address, phone number, and business hours. Accuracy is key!

3. Add Photos: Upload high-quality pics of your salon. Showcase the interior, exterior, and some action shots of your stylists at work. This helps potential clients get a feel for your vibe.

4. Encourage Reviews: Encourage happy clients to leave reviews on your Google profile. This is where investing in the right salon software really pays off. Software like Phorest will automatically prompt your clients to leave a review after their appointments. Additionally, you can add a review link on your website and even put up a small sign in your salon with review instructions.

5. Respond to Reviews: Engage with reviewers. Thank them for positive feedback and professionally address any negative reviews. This shows you value customer feedback and are dedicated to excellent service.

6. Use Google Posts: Share updates, promotions, and events using the Google Posts feature. This keeps your profile active and engaging.

7. Add a Google review plugin: By adding this to your website Google reviews can easily be accessed by all potential clients directly on your website. 

8. Add a Book Online button: Some salon systems, like Phorest, allow for direct booking straight from your Google Business profile. This provides a smooth and effortless way for existing, but primarily new, clients to book their appointments with you. The fewer barriers, the better!

A Case Study

With 10 stylists and consistently fully booked columns, The Hair Movement Salon attributes much of its success to a multi-faceted marketing approach, with Google serving as a cornerstone of their strategy. Boasting over 680 five-star reviews, new guests flock to the salon based on the recommendations of existing clients. It’s digital word of mouth.

Maximising Your Google Presence

Besides setting up and maintaining your Google Business Profile, try these strategies to boost your online presence:

Local SEO: Optimise your website with local search terms. Use keywords related to your services and location throughout your site.

Google Ads: Don’t underestimate the power of Google Ads. They can help you reach a wider audience and drive more traffic to your site and Google profile.

Regular Updates: Keep your profile and website up-to-date with the latest info on your services, pricing, and special offers.

So to wrap up 

Instagram and Facebook are important, but don’t overlook Google in your marketing strategy. By building a strong Google presence, especially through reviews, you can attract new clients and establish a solid, trustworthy reputation in your area. Start setting up your strong Google Business Profile today and watch your salon’s visibility and clientele grow!

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Professional Smoothing – A Brief History

The Changes We Face

5 Hair Trends Heading Into Spring

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The Artistry of Japanese Steel Blades

The Rachel is Back

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The Art of Texturizing

Deposits, it’s a No-Brainer

Professional Smoothing – A Brief History

Professional Smoothing – A Brief History

THE EVOLUTION OF PROFESSIONAL SMOOTHING: A BRIEF HISTORY

In the pursuit of healthy, manageable, frizz-free hair, professional smoothing treatments have become a cornerstone of haircare routines globally. This journey towards healthier locks has evolved significantly over the decades, adapting to advancements in technology, changing safety regulations, shifting trends, and evolving beauty standards. Today, we celebrate natural beauty, but this wasn’t always the case.

Early Beginnings: The Birth of Hair Relaxers

The concept of hair smoothing dates back to the early 20th century, marked by the invention of hair relaxers. These treatments, initially utilised by those with Afro-Caribbean hair, involved the application of lye, specifically sodium hydroxide or calcium hydroxide, which when applied broke down the protein bonds within the hair shaft. While effective, these early relaxers were known for their harshness and potential to cause significant damage if improperly administered.

The 1990s: The Rise of Japanese Hair Straightening

In the 1990s, Japanese hair straightening, also known as thermal reconditioning, revolutionised the hair industry. This method combined chemical treatments with flat ironing to permanently alter the structure of the hair. Despite its popularity for producing ultra-straight, shiny hair, the process was time-consuming and came with lots of risk as it could be damaging if not performed by skilled professionals, and even then clients were left with constant regrowth, making it impractical and very expensive. 

The 2000s: The Brazilian Blow-dry and Keratin Treatments

The early 2000s saw the introduction of the Brazilian Blow-dry and keratin treatments, which quickly gained worldwide popularity. These treatments claimed to use keratin, a protein naturally found in hair, to smooth and strengthen hair fibres. Brands promised frizz-free, out-of-the-shower straight hair with incredible shine. 

However, these treatments came under real scrutiny for the use of illegal levels of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, leading to health concerns for both clients and stylists alike, followed by global bans and lawsuits. 

Out of the ashes: The foundation of Professional Smoothing 

A significant milestone in the evolution of professional haircare occurred in 2010 when advances in biotechnology enabled Kebelo to launch the first professional smoothing treatment using carbocysteine, designed to strengthen damaged bonds on a foundational level. This pioneering treatment, now known as Nice and Smooth and operated by The Hair Movement, set a new standard for both safety and versatility, encouraging clients to embrace their natural hair texture, establishing the foundation of professional in-salon smoothing. Subsequently, others followed suit, solidifying the birth of this staple category.

Today, smoothing is a foundational treatment aimed at creating healthy hair, thereby improving manageability, reducing frizz, and improving texture. This contrasts sharply with its predecessors, which were primarily styling products that often caused damage while only giving the appearance of healthy hair. This breakthrough has not only transformed professional salon services but also paved the way for a new category of retail smoothing treatments, emphasising the enduring need for products that promote hair health. As a result, the professional smoothing market has experienced significant growth, driven by the demand for treatments that deliver performance, peace of mind, and versatility.

 “The future of professional smoothing treatments appears promising… it is a must have service on any salon menu.”

The Future of Professional Hair Smoothing

Jonathan Shipman, co-founder of The Hair Movement, states, “The future of professional smoothing treatments appears promising, albeit unlikely to match the scale of colour services, it is a must have service on any salon menu.” Smoothing treatments have in-fact become essential offerings in most professional salons. Shipman believes that in the future, professional smoothing will no longer be a niche service; as the application process becomes easier and more affordable, smoothing will remain a growing mainstream salon service. Research indicates that salons offering smoothing treatments not only enhance the hair health of their clients but also, on average, increase client visits by four times a year, fostering greater loyalty and engagement with the salon.

Today, salons are challenged with thinking outside the box to increase the frequency of client visits. With clients desiring healthy hair styled in a relaxed, natural manner, smoothing has become one of the most relevant services available. 

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The Changes We Face

The Changes We Face

THE CHANGES AND CHALLENGES WE FACE

Well, folks, there is no way around the truth that the past four years have been existentially transformative for our industry. COVID resulted in a financial hit and loss to salons across our country, and for many, that loss meant the closure of their creative doors. New micro-salons have sprung up in garden sheds, garages, and spare rooms. Mobile hairdressing has increased, and the debate of employed vs. self-employed became, and still very much is, a hot and divisive topic in our industry.

In addition to all of this, in the aftermath of COVID, stylists are seeking more “work-life balance” while simultaneously experiencing a professional existential crisis. Salon owners are in the process of adapting to a younger generation of stylists who are joining our wonderful industry, a journey that is radically different from the one they themselves experienced, and at times one they find hard to wrap their heads around. The number of people entering our industry has dropped off a cliff, and there is no real strategy in sight to reverse or even buck the current trend. Clients’ expectations have increased; they are looking for more than just great hair—they are looking for an experience and are holding their purse strings as tight as they did back in 2008.

Social media is, regardless of personal preference, a necessity to stay relevant as a business, and the pressures on salon owners and stylists are greater than ever before. On the flip side of that coin, the opportunities are also greater, which I’ll circle back to. Professional brands have diversified their routes to market, leaving a bitter taste, and our heritage industry publications are struggling with direction and how to best position themselves to stay relevant to future generations with the same creative sway they once had.

Our industry, the industry of Sassoon, Galvin, Sorbie, and Mascolo, is at a major crossroads whilst undergoing an organic culling. For many, it’s scary, unnerving, and a source of much concern. For others, the ones that will remain in five years’ time, it’s opportunity, it’s change, it’s both exciting and invigorating.

Change can either happen by choice or be forced upon us. Regardless of how or why, the success of thriving with change always depends on one common factor—how it’s embraced. Doing what we’ve always done whilst rigidly clinging to past behaviours will historically result in guaranteed failure.

“We want the industry to give you what the industry gave us”

I had the privilege of spending a few hours this week with the creative and award-winning power duo Sally and Jamie Brooks from Brooks & Brooks at their beautiful new five-story salon in Covent Garden. We met up to film an inspiration interview segment for the Kasho online series “People Behind the Brand.” Now, if you ever have the opportunity to spend time talking with Sally and Jamie, you’ll realise that they’re not only a wealth of industry knowledge, history, and experience but are also bursting with forward-thinking passion for the future of our industry. In our conversation, Sally said something that really stuck with me when talking about the younger generation. She said, “we want the industry to give you what the industry gave us,” referring to the fun, community, opportunities, and magic, but also went on to share that “somewhere along the line we have lost the respect for the craft.” She couldn’t be more right, and not so surprisingly, our industry is not alone in working through this challenge.

It all comes back to change, and the interesting thing about change is that it goes in cycles. Fashion trends, colour trends—it all loops. However, the difference this time is that we are now living in a fast-paced, Instagram-driven world of instant gratification. For those of us who are slightly older, we carry the old-school way of doing things with us, simultaneously equipped with insights and a deep understanding of how it works today. Younger stylists, on the other hand, only have the present. They are used to achieving their goals more quickly. Their impatience can be seen as negative, but changing this perspective will require a mindset shift within the old-school industry.

While mastering a new skill once required 100 cuts, today that’s a pipe dream. A talented 23-year-old stylist moves faster and aims to reach their goals sooner. It’s not that they are impatient or lazy; it’s that the industry has not given them what it once provided the older generation of hairdressers. They have not been given the same structure of mentorship, the long hours of practice, and the gradual buildup of experience that once defined the journey to mastery. Instead, they navigate an industry that demands speed, adaptability, performance, profit and constant reinvention, often at the expense of depth and a sense of craft. They are navigating a world of social media and demands to constantly dazzle, with an undertone that to be a “successful” stylist, they must constantly be visible. This stands in sharp contrast to 20 years ago when the focus was on technique, craftsmanship, community, and lets face it, having lots of fun in the process.

The future of our industry is bright, but I believe that the cycle loop will, in the next 12 months, bring things back to basics—back to the craft being the focal point. Education, training, and craftsmanship will take the front seat, but it will be done differently, using new technologies and effective approaches that will resonate with the industry that we have today, not trying to force the ways that once were.

The past four years have been challenging, and the years to come will most likely continue to be years of significant change. However, the unity of our industry, the focus of our industry, and the passion for our industry are most definitely heading in the right direction. Skill building, craftsmanship, and education will be key in the years to come. Ensuring that finely tuned skills are firing on all cylinders at all times is what will allow the talented to flourish and the industry to grow. This is why Kasho has committed itself to education, both online and in person. Our mission for the years to come is to ensure, by working with likeminded industry leaders, publications and organisations, that the golden age of hairdressing-craftsmanship is returned whilst adapting and moulding it to the hairdressers needs of the future. 

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Embrace the Chic

5 Hair Trends Heading Into Spring

5 Hair Trends Heading Into Spring

5 HAIR TRENDS HEADING INTO SPRING

Attention all hairdressers! Whether your clients are seeking a bold transformation or just subtle tweaks to their style, we’ve got you covered. We’ve consulted with Kasho loyalists to ask them what the trendiest springtime haircuts you should keep an eye out for.

STRAIGHT AND LOOSE

“Tania Betsy, Creative Salon Director at The Hair Movement salon notes a prevailing trend toward smoother hair styles, clarifying that it’s not about the perfectly flat-ironed look, but rather a blow-dried appearance with a straightened yet relaxed vibe. This style incorporates some texture and fluidity, avoiding overly sharp lines. Describing it as a ‘palate cleanser’ from previous seasons, the aesthetic revolves around clean, minimalist hair reminiscent of the late ’90s and early 2000s, drawing inspiration from icons like Jennifer Lopez during that era.”

MIXIE CUT

The latest buzz in hair trends is the mixie cut, blending elements of the pixie and mullet styles. Google searches for this edgy look have surged by 1,000 percent in the past month alone. Kristen Stewart has recently embraced this trend, rocking it with textured layers, a tousled finish, and heaps of attitude—a perfect embodiment of how this style should be flaunted.

MIDI-BOB

In 2024, clean and uncomplicated silhouettes are set to dominate the hair scene, with one standout style being the midi-bob. This sleek and polished look exudes sophistication and maturity, making it a popular choice for those looking to transition from a shorter bob. Celebrities like Penélope Cruz and Selena Gomez have recently embraced the midi-bob with slightly more movement, adding to its allure and cementing its status as a must-have haircut.

FRINGES AND BANGS

Bangs and fringes are making a triumphant return to the forefront of hair fashion, adding a fresh and youthful vibe to any hairstyle. From blunt-cut bangs to soft, wispy fringes, there’s a style to suit every face shape and personality. Celebrities and influencers alike are embracing this trend, showcasing versatile looks that range from classic and sophisticated to edgy and bold. Whether you’re aiming for a chic curtain fringe or a retro-inspired micro bang, bangs and fringes are sure to inject an instant dose of style and personality into your look this year.

60s ARE BACK SWINGING

The iconic hairstyles of the 1960s are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, proving that classic never goes out of style. From voluminous beehives to sleek, mod-inspired cuts, the timeless elegance of 60s hair trends continues to captivate fashion enthusiasts around the world. Influenced by cultural icons such as Brigitte Bardot and Twiggy, modern interpretations of these retro looks are popping up on red carpets, runways, and social media feeds alike. Whether it’s the return of the bouffant or the revival of the flipped-out ends, there’s a nostalgic charm to 60s hairstyles that effortlessly complements contemporary fashion sensibilities. With their playful yet polished aesthetic, these vintage-inspired looks serve as a reminder that the allure of the 60s is as relevant and captivating as ever in 2024.

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Caring for your Body

Caring for your Body

CARING FOR YOUR BODY

Having a high-quality, ergonomically designed pair of scissors is the first step to avoiding the aches and pains and more serious injuries that can affect hard-working hairdressers. But even when you have the perfect cutting tools, there are still measures you can take to limit pressure on your hands and wrists, according to scissors expert Kasho Scissors. “Scissors are the tool we work with every day, and while they are ergonomically designed to limit wrist and shoulder aggravations, there’s also things hairdressers should be doing to make sure they are cutting injury free,” creative director for The Hair Movement and Kasho Creative contributor Tania Betsy says. “Small steps can make a big difference to how your body feels at the end of a busy day.” 

Tania Betsy has these four tips for caring for your body while you’re cutting hair.

1 Perfect the proper grip

It’s vital to hold your scissors using a relaxed and natural grip. The thumb should rest in the thumb ring, and the remaining fingers in the finger ring, allowing for controlled and precise movements. It’s all about limiting the strain put on your hand and wrist during a day of cutting, and gripping the scissors in this way should become second nature.

2 Watch your body position

Ensure you maintain a comfortable and upright posture while cutting. It’s so easy to end up slouching, or constantly bending to hear what the client is saying but try to avoid this where possible. It’s not just your hands and wrists that can suffer; backs and shoulders can also feel the strain. Also, try to avoid excessive bending of the wrist or overreaching, as these can lead to discomfort and strain.

3 Take regular breaks

While the first thing you might think about during a break is grabbing a coffee or a snack, also take time between cutting sessions to stretch and relax your hands, wrists, and shoulders. This helps prevent cumulative strain injuries associated with prolonged use.

4 Customise your scissors

Make sure your scissors are working with you to avoid unnecessary strain. Adjust the scissor tension and finger rest to suit your individual preferences. Experiment with different settings to find the configuration that best accommodates your hand size and cutting technique.

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Keep the pain away!

Miley Cyrus goes big

Miley Cyrus goes big

MILEY CYRUS GOES BIG, REAL BIG!

The Grammy Awards have consistently provided a platform for artists to showcase their talent, creativity, and unique styles. This year was no exception, and one artist who truly stole the spotlight with her bold and striking look was none other than Miley Cyrus.

As Dolly Parton once said, “Life is short, keep your dreams big and your hair bigger.” Well, at this year’s Grammy Awards, Miley Cyrus took her godmother’s words very literally. Not only did she take home an award, but thanks to her heaven-reaching mane of curls, she’s also sweeping through social media and has forever become synonymous with ‘volume.’

The visionary or culprit (depending on who you ask) behind the hairstyle that reaches for the stars is her long-time stylist and friend, Bob Recine. “Last year, I featured Miley’s wet look for hair,” Recine said in a statement. “For the Grammys, we decided we wanted something dry and bigger, more full hair, but sexy, tousled, and touchable,” and boy did he hit the mark he set out to hit.

As Miley Cyrus graced the red carpet, all eyes were on her. For the past decade, she’s been known for her fearless fashion choices, and Miley’s hair was no exception. However, it’s divided the internet. Some claim that she’s reintroduced an old-school style that will reverberate through the industry, while others have less flattering things to say, including comments involving electrical sockets. Either way, no matter which side of the creative take you are standing on, we can all agree on one thing: her fearless drive to push creative boundaries and norms helps us all in what we do, push boundries. Confidence to stand out, to try new things, to be different. Miley left everyone in awe, and my take is that we should all take a page out of her book.

#daretobecreative

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The Artistry of Japanese Steel Blades

The Rachel is Back

Stay Relevant with Digital Marketing

The Art of Texturizing

Deposits, it’s a No-Brainer

Fine tuned tools for fine tuned precision

Embrace the Chic

Our Industry Heading Into 2024

Keep the pain away!

Checklist for the Festive Season

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