We checked in with a whole host of hair professionals to find out about their kitbag must-haves, and compiled their responses in one handy list! Check out hairdressers' favourite 2023 products below...
The One That... Reduces Damage
The ghd duet style takes hair from wet to styled in one step, with Dafydd Thomas sharing: “Not since the launch of ghd back in 2001 has the industry seen such a game-changing innovation. It simplifies styling without compromising on hair health or the finish.”
The One That... Reduces Unecessary Noise
Drawing inspiration from the world's top stylists is Falco, BaByliss PRO’s quietest ever dryer. Discussing the new launch, Ky Wilson explains: “It strikes the perfect balance between power and silence, elevating the ambience of the salon, while the new variety of attachments make styling hair a breeze."
The One That... Fights Frizz
"The new Frizz Shield Spray from Moroccanoil is a game-changer for keeping hair in place all day long, whether you're battling humidity in the summer or static in the winter,”says Antonio Corral Calero, the brand’s Global Creative Director.“Every stylist should have it in their kitbag because of its lightweight formula that allows for natural movement while keeping the look secure throughout the day.”
The One That... Is Perfect for Details
The WAHL Gold 5 Star Cordless Detailer provides zero-overlap for super close trimming, outlines and accurate detail work. Barber Rhys Whitehouse, shares: “It's fitted with a Diamond- like Carbon coated top blade and a new Titanium coated bottom blade making it sharper, stronger, cooler and more energy efficient.”
The One That... Is Ideal for Prep
If you’re looking for the perfect prep product, Wella Professionals has got you covered with its Miracle Hair Rescue from the new Wella Ultimate Repair range. Discussing why this is a new staple in his kitbag, James Earnshaw, says:“I’ve been amazed by the results; you simply spray it on and the bond repair technology repairs damage and transforms hair.”
The One That... Is Ahead of the Curve
With revolutionary curved plate technology, CLOUD NINE’s 2-in1 Contouring Iron Pro is perfect for creating shiny styles. Stylist and Educator Marie Nieuwoudt shares:“This cuts down the amount I have to carry; with one tool I can create smooth, straight hair and bouncy curls.”
The One That... Does it All
L’Oréal Professionnel Paris’ Metal Detox High Protection Cream is truly versatile, with Rachel Valentine sharing: “It has so many benefits. It has heat protection, UV protection and is also part of the full Metal Detox range which is designed for protecting hair colour against the metals in water. ”
The One That... Adds Stunning Shine
From the ‘Snatched Bun’ to the ‘Glazed Doughnut’, Kerasilk has got the perfect product to help you master these looks.“The Kerasilk Finishing Crème is a stylists kitbag must have,” says Taz Daddi-Addoun, owner of The Bird Cage hair salon.“It’s great for adding shine and slight dimension into the hair or to smooth and define curls.”
The One That... Turns up the Volume
The relaunch of Schwarzkopf Professional's much-loved styling brand, OSiS, introduced a whole host of products into the market, including Philipp Haug’s 2023 favourite, Airwhip.“I always have it in my kitbag, without fail. I love a very natural, light hold, and this achieves that while being buildable and without being sticky.”
The One That... Protects and Repairs
This year Olaplex continued to expand its styling offering with the launch of Olaplex Volumising Blow Dry Mist. “It doesn't just offer built-in protection, it also has reparative benefits thanks to the patented Olaplex compound,” says Tom Smith.“It’s light enough to be used on dry hair to build dramatic volume, but gentle enough to use as an all-over protective spray.”
The One That... Bonds and Re-Bonds
A new serum is ready to take centre stage – and a spot in your kitbag. Shu-Lan Cheung, Technical Educator, shares: “I see the new Re:Bond Serum as the perfect prep product; it’s super lightweight, so hair will look smoother and revitalised, while nourishing each strand of hair from within, so hair will have a healthier and more youthful appearance too.”
The One That... Is Utterly Effortless
“The Knot Dr’s The Rounds is a game-changer in the world of hair,” says Sarah Brawley, owner of BLOWstudio.“I understand the importance of having a great kit and tools that deliver both efficiency and results.The Rounds effortlessly detangles and smooths hair while adding volume and shine. Its innovative design minimises breakage, making it a must-have hair tool.”
The One That... Gives Long-Lasting Results
OSMO’s new Curl Revival Range has been created to cater to the three main curl types, and while all products in the range are impressive in their own right, Kelly Shone-Adams, owner of Technocracy Hair Salon in Neath, says her favourite is the Re-Invigorating Gel;“It ensures curls are defined and brought to life without any crispiness or greasy cast.”
The One That... Is a Dream Duo
Launched back in March, Elgon’s Yes Curls range features the Hydra Spray and Memory Cream, which Elgon Educator Dawn Moffat says are now both firm essentials in her kitbag. “I start with the Hydra Spray to boost moisture in the hair, and follow with the Memory Cream, which is so light it doesn’t weigh the curls down or leave the hair feeling sticky.”
The One That... Gives Longevity
Maria Nila has just released the Shaping Heat Hairspray, which contains moisturising ingredients Squalane and Glycerin. Educator Jasmine Kurang explains:“This spray is my new hero product when it comes to giving hairstyles longevity. It provides heat protection on dry hair while also giving hair the most fabulous bounce.”
The One That... Is a Multi-Use Master
If you’re trying to keep your kitbag condensed, having products which offer multiple uses is key. Melissa Timperley’s favourite is the Working Hairspray from Authentic Beauty Concept.“Not only is it an excellent hairspray to hold everything in place, but it also protects the hair as a heat protector.”
The One That... Gives Instant Gratification
ELEVEN Australia's Keep My Colour Blonde Toning Spray is a leave-in spray which neutralises brassiness and enhances blondes. Paul Dennison says: “Not only does this keep any unwanted brassy tones at bay, it also has heat protection up to 220°C which is the perfect combination when working backstage, as too-hot tools won't ruin your colour work.”
The One That... Boosts your Blowdries
A new release in the UK, BAWDY Boosting Cream from Jack Winn Pro gives you fuller, thicker hair, while the addition of panthenol protects from heat and strengthens hair.“With BAWDY, you'll experience fuller and thicker hair like never before.Whether it's for a holiday blowout or a special event, this is the secret weapon of our stylists and a fan favourite for our clients,” says Jack Winn.
The One That... Is Back and Better than Ever
Alfa Italia has re-launched its Tropea Interchangeable Pro Styling Wand as two new styling kits, the Curl Styler and the Wave Styler. Sharing his love for the tools, Peter Mellon says: “The Alfa Italia Tropea is definitely a must have for any salon or session stylist – whether you opt for the Curl or Wave Styler. Having one tool with interchangeable barrels means my kitbag is light and compact.”
