10 common hair and scalp issues and how to solve them

Working in a salon you’re going to see countless clients with varying hair types, different personalities and diverse requirements. But while everyone is unique, you’re going to be faced with the same recurring problems. These are some of the most common hair and scalp issues you will come into contact with. Split ends No matter how many miracle solutions that promise to repair split ends you read about, the reality is that the only solution is to cut them off. The best way to help long-haired clients who have been affected by unsightly ends is sound advice. Get her using a heat protecting spray and encourage her to use a good quality brush and soft fabric hair bands that should never be pulled too tightly. Then you’ll need to stress the importance of regular trims to stop the split ends travelling up the hair shaft. Dandruff or dry scalp If a client has a dry scalp or dandruff, you’ll need to handle the topic delicately as it may be something they are rather sensitive about. Using an appropriate shampoo and conditioner will solve the problem for most clients. If that doesn’t clear it up, a dry scalp treatment – usually in an oil form - should create a soft and healthy scalp. Sensitive scalps and eczema Rather like a dry scalp, the secret here is to recommend the right products – and often that means telling them to stop their current routine. Recommend that they stop using anything with a large amount of sulphates to give their skin a chance to breathe. If you’ve got a scalp camera this can be great to not only show the client the problem, but also demonstrate the progress that you make over time with appropriate scalp treatments. Hair breakage Straightening irons are fantastic. They can help finish a style, create beautiful curls or waves and mean there is no excuse for a bad hair day. Unfortunately if they are over used, they’ll also result in hair breakage. You’ll need to give the client a deep conditioning treatment, along with some strict instructions that they’re going to need to change their routine to be a little less reliant on the irons. This client should also be encouraged to take some heat protecting spray home with them. Problems with the suitability of the cut This one all comes down to the consultation. If a client has a hairstyle that doesn’t suit her or her lifestyle then something went wrong at the very beginning of the appointment. Take time to listen and get to the bottom of what she really wants, then be realistic with her to come to a look that is suitable. Difficulty recreating the look How often do you hear a client say ‘I love it when you do it, but I can never make it look quite the same’? Ultimately, you are letting them down and only giving them half the service. Tell them what products you are using and why; give them little tricks for getting the perfect end result and if necessary let them have a practice at a section of the hair while they are in the salon to give them the confidence to get it right. Over-processed hair Colour on top of colour on top of colour can leave hair really rather worse for wear. This client might need to be advised to lay-off the blonde for a little while and she’s definitely going to need a good treatment at the backwash. You’ll need to talk to the client about the problem and send her home with a good moisturising shampoo and conditioner, then encourage her to book in for regular six-weekly hair appointments until it’s brought back to life. Greasy or oily hair It’s such a shame to see hair looking weighed down and greasy. Unfortunately for most it’s down to their hair type so recommend a deep cleansing shampoo and conditioner and a good quality natural bristle brush. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, can play their part, but discussing this requires sensitivity and expert choice of words. If you suspect over-use of products is causing the problem , you’ll need to spend a little more time discussing product choice and demonstrating how to use them. Tension alopecia Got a hair extensions wearer whose hair isn’t quite as thick as it used to be? Be brave and tell her that it’s time to give the hair a break for a little while. There are specialist product ranges that will help to restore hair thickness, but a break from extensions and hair elastics is the only real solution. Hair loss This is a big problem for men, who may be looking to you for advice about what products they can use or how they can wear their hair to hide their protruding bald patch. Be sensitive as this can be upsetting, but you’ll also need to be honest with them about what will work for them. If a female client is experiencing hair loss, send her to her GP as there may be a hormonal or medical issue causing the problem. With thanks to Scott Smurthwaite , Cream hairdressing; Anthony Licata, Mahogany Hairdressing; Jake Ungar, HOB Salons; Johnny Othona, Ena.