Hairdressers heading abroad to get ahead: damien carney in los angeles

Damien Carney is the international artistic director for Joico and is based in Los Angeles. 

"I'm originally from Birmingham but I moved to London when I was 18 and spent most of my working life there. 

I had no intention of ever going to the US, but was headhunted by a haircare manufacturer who was looking for an international creative director. I wasn't interested in moving to Los Angeles but my friends convinced me, and I was up for the challenge. 

That was 11 years ago, and I still visit and work in London, so have the best of both worlds.       

 Hair in the US is more commercial and less daring; hair in the UK is very technique driven. The hair cut is the foundation, complemented by colour and finish, but clients in the US blow-dry and colour their hair more often. 

Americans are generally very welcoming and positive, but obtaining a green card can be difficult. Sponsorship is vital to secure the right legal documents. LA is very chilled but affected by the Hollywood scene - everyone's an upcoming movie star.          

Hairdressers are creative, regardless of nationality - there are many levels and forms of creativity; there are many points of view as to what is beautiful and what is viewed as tasteful and appropriate. American hairdressers are generally better at service than any other nationality.  

Americans like the idea of doing something different, but need more persuading. British clients seek individuality and don't conform as much as US clients.

 

I'm doing a job that most people would die for. I often pinch myself and consider myself lucky. I love to share, mentor and inspire - a little encouragement, a gentle push, and who knows what will happen?"