Beyoncé has been the inspiration behind some of the biggest trends in hair, from Lemonade braids to waist-skimming platinum wigs. With a team of the most accomplished hairstylists behind her, it may seem near impossible to duplicate the singer’s crown, but none other than expert Jay Birmingham, who has tended to the locks of Maya Jama, Rochelle Humes and Lori Harvey, shares his top tips to help you channel your inner Bey.
Beyoncé has enviable tresses! What should a client ask their stylist for if they’re looking to emulate Bey’s luscious, long, blonde waves?
Beyoncé has beautiful hair – many women are in awe of her ever changing looks and she looks incredibly glamorous at all times. Based on her current look, clients should be asking their stylists for extreme length (extensions), platinum blonde colour and a bouncy blow-dry! Of course, your colour technique will depend on your hair at present!
How would you sum up Queen Bey’s hair in three words?
Always on point.
Beyoncé has been the inspiration behind many trends – what makes her such a massive influence in the hair world?
Queen B is just that, the Queen! Over the years, clients have related to her hair changes, as they have always been relatable to the consumer. Beyonce never goes too OTT, she works with colours or styles which are consumer friendly and that the modern-day client could also achieve in the salon. She shows you can have fabulous hair at every opportunity.
Be honest! Do hairdressers mind when a client brings in a picture of a celebrity and asks them to copy the style?
As a hairdresser, we love nothing more than a mood board or a reference – this helps us so much to envisage your inner thoughts and what you would like to achieve as part of your overall look. It is important to remember that when you do bring that reference the hair journey may take a few sittings to get to the end result – as experts we would never compromise the health of the hair.
What’s the secret to shade-matching extensions for a perfect blend with a client’s hair?
It’s all in the experience – honestly. Shade matching takes time and only through experience have I mastered this. I am very fortunate to work closely with Beauty Works who have an exceptional range of hair and colour shades – this makes it so much easier!
The world of hair extensions is constantly evolving. What’s the latest innovation to look out for right now?
My new product – stay tuned!
Truth or myth: hair extensions cause traction alopecia?
If cared for correctly and maintained properly, your hair will remain in exceptional condition – your aftercare and homecare is vital.
High quality extensions can set you back hundreds. What’s the best way to extend the life of extensions?
What’s vital is to use products which will not damage the hair and lay off excess heat as much as you can. My products, Jay B Haircare, are usable on all hair types, including extensions and ensure the hair is continuously hydrated, nourished and in the best condition possible. We are soon to be adding a new product which will help hair even more – stay tuned!
Beyoncé’s best braid looks
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Follow Jay Birmingham on Instagram @jayb.hair
