“Great Styles Are the Result of Smart Calculations”
We all love a great style, and we know a good haircut when we see one. But did you know that according to Lead Stylist Courtney Beeco, great hairstyles have something to do with math calculations? Yes, that's right, in this edition of the PureHair + Artistry Hair & Beauty Tips, Courtney gives us the scoop on a unique technique she uses to create beautiful and custom haircuts, tips for achieving healthy hair, and advice for finding your favorite stylist.
Q: What does a good hairstyle have to do with math?
A: I know it sounds odd, but while other stylists learned traditional haircutting theory in school, I studied a haircutting theory called "Head Shape Matters" to create unique hairstyles based on how hair lays across the head and face. This technique uses mathematical calculations to match the shape of a person's head. Of course, a great haircut is not all science. I am always applying an artistic eye to mastering new colors and shades while crafting styles my clients will continue to love.
Q: Why did you choose to become a stylist?
A: First, I did not choose to become a hairstylist. It chose me. Like many things in life, we start in one direction and find ourselves in a completely different place. In this case, it turned out to be the right fit. I originally wanted to help people and thought I might be a speech pathologist. School schedules were a hurdle, and since I grew up around cosmetologists, I thought I might take a chance. I started cosmetology school and never looked back. Studying and crafting hair colors and styles has always and continues to feel like a natural fit.
Q: What have you learned over the years as a stylist?
A: Most people don't really know what they want. So when they come to see me, they are looking to the stylist to provide insight into what's new, what they could do differently, or simple tips on how to style their hair or keep it looking healthy. Whatever the case, it is the stylist's job to listen, pay attention and be present. I feel a real obligation to give every client my full attention.
Q: What do clients assume about hair color?
A: Any color can be achieved regardless of hair color and hair health. For example, blond can be hard to get right. There are so many different shades of blond, and finding the right shade that brings good balance while brightening or accenting your current color can prove challenging. Likewise, brunettes can turn red easily without the right blend of color and toner. It takes repeated skill and a good eye for color to get it right.
Q: What's new in hair that your clients care about most?
Trends around natural and warm tones are gaining popularity. Women want to look more natural and are forgoing the ash (brass) blond tones of the early 2000s. Copper reds are also coming into vogue, and women want their hair to look rich and natural.
Q: What’s trending right now?
The biggest trend we see beyond hair color is hair extensions. In addition to wanting a more natural look, women want to add length and volume. They don't want to wait for it to grow out, and they want it to look natural. The fastest way to achieve this look is to add hair extensions. If this technique is performed well (and we only do it well at PureHair + Artistry), you won't ever know the difference between natural hair and hair extensions.
Any styling tips to achieve a healthier-looking version of your hair?
Apply some basic rules to the everyday care of your hair. Use hair products that follow the same principles as a skincare line. Kevin Murphy and Australia Eleven use natural ingredients. Kevin Murphy was initially developed as a skincare line, so they understand the biological chemistry of skin and hair to deliver performance, strength, and longevity to hair's natural look.
Another tip is to limit your hair regime to 2- 3 styling products. I see many clients try and do too much at one time. They will use too many products that can weigh down the hair and cause it to look dull and flat. You want to use professional products to add body, protect, and shine.
Any advice for clients looking for a good stylist-fit?
Always test out different salons and stylists before settling on "the one."
Take note of how your possible stylist administers color and how they analyze your cut.
Are they willing to share their techniques and ideas before they begin?
How do they talk about your hair, and do they really understand what you want to achieve? If they can't communicate it to you, they might not really be hearing you.
Q: Changing directions, any advice for a new stylist looking to enter this field?
You might love hair design. You might not (love it).
Ask to shadow a stylist in a salon. Take the time to see if this is really something you want to do.
Hairstyling combines technical expertise, artistic design, and lots of patience. It can feel stressful when you are trying to figure out and deliver what the client wants. You need all the mentorship and practice you can get to do it right. You must be able to gain the trust of your clients and deliver professional styles time and time again.
Apply good techniques, never stop researching what works, and listen to your mentors. Over time you will get it!
About Courtney
Courtney is well versed in color, hair cutting, extensions, and special occasion styling. Besides her licensed training, she has served under Aveda master designers and attended classes for different hair cutting, hair extension, and balayage techniques.
She specializes in color and haircuts customizable to your individual needs. She practices a unique haircutting technique that crafts a style according to the shape of the head. At the same time, she pays close attention to trends and can craft a well-designed haircut with beautiful color.
“I love to make my clients feel better about their hair.”