I came out of spring’s lockdown vowing to make changes to the way I lived; some big, some more superficial. My hair fell on the latter list: unsurprisingly, my signature highlights did not weather months of neglect well. Much as I longed to get them redone when salons reopened, part of me hesitated, wondering if there might come a time when visits to the hairdresser were off the agenda again. A low maintenance, natural look was clearly key. And I wasn’t the only one feeling this way – Christel Barron-Hough, influential colourist and founder of Notting Hill’s STIL has designed a whole new colouring technique to reflect this new desire. She describes Lux Lights as a ‘twinning technique’ that builds a beautiful halo of light throughout the hair, perfectly mirroring its natural colour. It’s been designed to be low maintenance, with seamless, barely-there re-growth. Just what I’m looking for.
Chic, airy and modern, the salon feels welcoming even with the COVID restrictions in place. There are just six styling stations, and with only one other customer in during my visit, social distancing is easy. I describe the look I’d like to achieve to my stylist Anna, and after going through some images, we settle on a suitable style. I’ve been wondering if wearing masks will make the whole process feel awkward, but we’re soon chatting away as if nothing were different. Foils applied, I’m left to enjoy a latte and to catch up on some emails. When it comes to time for my wash, I’m offered a hydrating treatment using TIGI Copyright Care products, and a glorious head massage, complete with essential oils. I have so missed these little indulgences and they are so very welcome. One blow dry later and I’m a new woman. Me, but lighter, brighter and ready to face the new normal.
Lux Light colour from £121 with a colour expert, treatments from £35. 2a Chepstow Road, W2 (020 7243 1521; stil-salon.com)