My colour work often looks beautiful on the day of service but loses dimension or tone after a few washes. How can professionals build more longevity into colour results from the formulation and service stage itself?
- Aman Nanda, Delhi
When it comes to achieving long-lasting colour results, it’s important to start with a strong understanding of colour fundamentals. A solid grasp of colour science allows professionals to create customised formulations that not only look good on the day of service but retain their tone and dimension over time. One effective approach is to build slight depth into highlight formulations by incorporating base shades. This helps anchor the colour, ensuring it fades more gracefully and maintains richness through multiple washes.
As scalp health becomes a bigger conversation, how should stylists factor scalp conditions into cutting, colouring, and treatment recommendations without stepping into dermatological territory?
- Aastha Rathod, Jaipur
Regardless of the service, healthy hair begins with a balanced scalp. Concerns such as dandruff, flakiness, or excess sebum can weaken the roots and affect both density and texture. Stylists should factor scalp condition into every recommendation, while staying within their professional scope. In-salon scalp treatments can help manage these concerns effectively, but consistency is key. Regular sessions, rather than one-off treatments, are essential for maintaining long-term scalp health and, in turn, better hair results.
I’m seeing more clients with waves, curls, and texture who still want trend-led cuts and colour placement. How should professionals adapt technique, so the look works with movement and natural volume and texture?
- Paridhi Shah, Gurgaon
Colouring textured hair is less about complexity and more about approach. While cutting techniques may vary across straight, wavy, and curly hair, colour application remains largely consistent. The key is to work with the natural texture and place colour visually, rather than relying on rigid sectioning patterns. This ensures the final result enhances movement, volume, and the natural fall of the hair, creating a softer, more seamless finish.
When a client comes in after multiple years of at-home colour, heat styling, and overlapping chemical services, what is the smartest way to plan a transformation without overpromising in one sitting?
- Amrit S, Pune
For clients with a history of at-home colour, heat damage, or overlapping chemical services, consultation is critical. Setting clear, realistic expectations from the start helps avoid disappointment. Tools like reference images and strand tests allow clients to visualise achievable outcomes on their existing hair. For more significant transformations, especially when going lighter, it’s important to explain the process transparently, including the number of sessions required to achieve the result safely without compromising hair integrity.
When working on shorter cuts like bobs, lobs, or shags, how should colour placement change so the work still feels visible and intentional?
- Purab Pradhan, Gujarat
On shorter cuts, colour placement should be guided by the structure of the haircut. It becomes a visual exercise in highlighting key features. Whether it’s a longer front section in a bob or the layers in a shag, strategic placement can enhance shape and movement. Thoughtful, targeted application ensures the colour feels intentional and remains visible, even within a more compact length.
MEET THE EXPERT
Shailesh Moolya, National Technical Head at Godrej Professional, brings over 20 years of hairdressing experience. Specialising in short hairstyles and updos, he transitioned from a fiveyear IT career to hairstyling, earning certifications from Vidal Sassoon and other leading institutions. Known for his client-first approach, he focuses on creating looks that enhance individual personalities. His work with multiple celebrities further reflects his versatility and expertise.
To participate in Ask Our Expert and get your questions answered by Shailesh Moolya, message your query to @pbhjindia on Instagram or email to afrin.idex@gmail.com.
*Questions have been edited for clarity and length.