Colours such as auburn, chestnut and ashy, golden highlights are popular choices to usher in the Chinese New Year. Photo: Aube International Hair Salon
As Chinese New Year approaches, those who celebrate will be looking forward to delicious feasts and seeing family and friends for long overdue catch-ups.
For many, this is also the time of year to head to the salon for a refresh on your signature ‘do, or to undergo a complete hair makeover to wow your loved ones.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your natural texture or try a bold new colour, these are the popular hairstyles for the upcoming festivities, with some expert tips on hair and scalp care from professionals in the field.
Top trends
Scissors Paper Stone Hair Studio director Evian Teh is seeing a lot more play on reddish-brown colour tones.
“Most are not opting for fancy over-the-top hair colours like striking blues or greens, but rather a more natural colour that matches different types of attire,” says Teh.
“Current fashion trends are heading towards suede and shades of yellow, which can be complemented by natural reddish-brown hues for your hair,” she says.
Versatile styles that are perfect for the many events that come with the festivities include the soft bell-bottom bob, the “mixie” cut, the supermodel layering cut and the halo cut, notes Portfolio Hair Studio creative director William Wong.
Short, chic hairdos are a popular go-to during the festive season. Photo: Portfolio Hair StudioShort, chic hairdos are a popular go-to style during the festive season, and a great way to completely change up your look if you’re looking for a fresh start.
“The soft bell-bottom bob is a modern, softer take on the classic bob with subtle curves, while the ‘mixie’ is a chic hybrid of the pixie and mullet, offering bold yet wearable flair,” says Wong.
Effortless volume and movement, worthy of supermodel glam, are the hallmarks of the supermodel layering cut, while the halo cut is made up of soft, rounded layers designed to enhance and celebrate your natural hair texture.
Aube International Hair Salon director, manager and hair stylist Steve Lee says that this year, trends are leaning towards elevating your hair’s natural texture.
“Soft, textured waves, a versatile style that works for all hair lengths and is perfect for festive occasions is going to be one of the bigger trends, while curtain bangs or wispy layers are another style which frame the face beautifully and add a youthful vibe,” says Lee.
In terms of colouring, he notes that bold, “lucky” colours such as auburn, chestnut or even ashy, golden highlights are popular choices to usher in the new year’s good fortune.
“Silky, sleek hair, in the form of polished ponytails or straight, glass-like hair are timeless for their clean and chic appeal,” he adds.
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Essential hair know-how
The Chinese New Year season is often hot and humid, with barely any clouds in the sky and the weather can be unpredictable which can affect how your hair behaves.
Rain or shine, there are plenty of things that you can do to ensure your hair stays healthy and looking great, but bear in mind this takes a little bit of commitment and consistency.
“Regular scalp and hair treatment is essential to take care of your hair, especially for those with textured or coloured hair,” says Teh.
“Regular application of hair masks at home, supplemented by a trip to the salon for deep-cleansing scalp treatments are helpful in improving the healthiness of your hair,” she adds, adding that many overlook the importance of good scalp care.
Tropical heat can cause more damage to hair than you think, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time visiting loved ones this season and getting in and out of the car under the blistering sun.
“The soaring temperatures can strip your strands of moisture, leaving them dry, dull and prone to breakage. Scalp issues like itchiness, tightness, and flakiness can also worsen during this time,” says Wong.
To protect and nourish your hair, he recommends switching up your haircare routine by using products formulated with hydrating and repairing ingredients.
He also recommends investing in a leave-in conditioner, such as products that lock in intense hydration, encourage thicker strands and shield against heat, humidity and UV rays.
Lee also suggests hydrating deeply with a moisturising shampoo and a weekly deep-conditioning mask to maintain moisture levels.
“Always apply a heat protectant before styling tools to prevent breakage and split ends, and products that seal in moisture. For textured hair, use leave-in conditioners or lightweight oils (for example argan or jojoba oil) to lock in hydration,” says Lee.
To avoid stripping your hair of its natural oils, minimise washing too often, especially if your hair is colour-treated. He recommends washing two to three times a week.
“Protect your hair from the elements by covering it in extreme weather or applying anti-humidity sprays to reduce frizz and damage,” says Lee.
A low bun is a great option for all-day visiting during the festive season. Photo: Freepik
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Keeping it in shape
While the festivities promise overdue catch-ups with friends and family over good food, you can expect to be on the go all day.
To create long-lasting, glamorous hairstyles that hold up from day to night, here are a few tips from the hair experts.
“For those with long hair, sometimes it doesn’t require elaborate hair setting or styling, as a simple curling technique using a curling tong would be able to set the right look for the day,” says Teh.
“This style is functional, simple and can be done at home. You can let your hair down, or tie it up loosely to match the look that you want to achieve.”
If you’re going for a more elegant look, Wong recommends giving satin heatless curling sets a try.
These are usually made with soft materials that you can wrap your hair around without pulling or breakage, and unlike styling tools which can damage your hair, this method works overnight.
“Wrap your hair around a soft, flexible band and leave it overnight,” says Wong. “When you remove it, you’ll have perfectly defined, beyond-natural waves without any heat damage.”
He also suggests trying out a low bun, a super chic look for on-the-go days.
“Opt for a bun below the occipital bone (the nape of your neck). Whether you prefer a textured, relaxed bun or a sleek, polished version, it’s an effortless and versatile style that works for both casual and formal looks,” he says.
To really make sure your hair stays flawless throughout the day, Lee notes that the right prep work is essential.
He suggests starting with a volumising mousse or a lightweight gel on damp hair, before using a texture spray for grip, and then adding a lightweight setting spray to hold the style.
“Pin your hair in place. For curls or waves, pin each section while it cools to lock in the shape and lock in the shine by using a small amount of serum or gloss spray for a polished look,” he says, adding that you can carry around a mini hairspray or smoothing balm to maintain your style throughout the day.
