Tony’s head start in science of the scalp
Last updated 17:52, Thursday, 27 March 2008
MOTTRAMS Natural Hairdressing is already nationally renowned for its natural hairdressing principles – but now the Cockermouth-based salon is leading the field in trichology – the science and study of hair.
Trichology deals with the study of scalp and hair problems – the different types of hair loss, baldness, scaling and the non-medical treatment of those problems. And Mottrams is the first salon in the country to lead in the field.
Salon owner Tony Mottram has a long history of training and qualifications but none so advanced as the principles behind trichology. Tony, an associate in trichology with the International Association of Trichologists (IAT), maintains that a hairdresser’s remit is more than just the hair – it is the full head.
“As hairdressers, we should be able to advise our clients on every problem relating to hair and the scalp,” he explained. “And the trichology training covers every aspect to these common maladies.
“The science behind it is fascinating; I believe we should be adopting more of it in our salons. Hairdressers have to be more than just stylists so this is why trichology is so important for hairdressers; it really gives salons more credit.
“I have always been interested in the science behind it all; I’m a cosmetologist, meaning I am able to make my own products which I then sell in the salon. But when I became interested in trichology I knew it was going to be groundbreaking within hairdressing.
“Dr Brian Plunkett is one of the many great people I have met during my training, and when I found out he was coming to Lakes College to take a masterclass I was really keen to be involved.”
Dr Plunkett delivered a masterclass in the science of the hair and scalp to his first cohort of Cumbrian students recently. The trichology expert runs his own Bedfordshire-based training company, Trichocare, which offers courses to salon professionals and has been delivering monthly lectures since September 2007.
Dr Plunkett said: “So many people are concerned with the structure of their hair, visiting salons with thinning hair and other problems, so it is important for salon owners to be able to diagnose issues and offer treatments. There should be one person from every salon with this qualification; it’s no good just being a technically good hairdresser, you need to be aware of the potential dangers.
“In this litigious climate, salon owners need to arm themselves with as much information as possible.”
Tony is working alongside Dr Plunkett aiming to raise the awareness of trichology within colleges and education establishments and has already been asked by Cyril Wheat, assistant principal at Lakes College, to lecture on a regular basis.
His skills will also take him to Australia and New Zealand where Tony will soon meet with fellow trichologists to advise college students on the effects and benefits of natural hairdressing.
“In a few months I will be touring the country with Dr Plunkett and Mark Leeson, a colour technician from London, to highlight the significance of trichology and natural hairdressing,” Tony went on. “It’s something which I’m really passionate about; natural hairdressing has been my drive for many years now. I’ve built my reputation around my service.
“We teach our clients about their hair and how the intake of vitamins and minerals can effect its growth and condition, so we are often advising people on their diet and lifestyle options.
“In the salon we won’t use any appliances or techniques that will put stress on the hair and consequently damage it. If you think that the skin and scalp is the first line of defence, whatever impregnates it can affect the rest of the body. Consequently my own range of salon products are so popular I can’t keep up with the production.
“We want to do hair for the right reasons; if it’s not right for our client we will be the first to advise them against it. I believe it’s because of this ethos that we are always so busy.”
In the next few weeks Tony will begin his trichology degree course after which he will be a fully-fledged member of the IAT. His staff are also engaging in trichology training with, on average, one trainee qualifying each year.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity for our staff to undertake the training, not only for the purpose of the salon but for themselves. The experience they will gain can be transferred to their work and carried on throughout their careers,” he continued.
“The training involved is really in-depth but studying is ultimately going to help both ourselves and our customers. I’m a firm believer that to be a professional in your trade – working to the best of your ability – you have to have a sound knowledge.
“This country will be capable of leading the way in hairdressing if we continue working to get information to the established salons and those who are just starting out – encouraging them to train their staff in trichology.
“It’s a really exciting time for the industry and Cumbria will be the spearhead.”
The next trichology course starts on March 5 and costs £395 for four units. Hair salons interested in the course should contact Lakes College hair department for further details on 01946 839300.
