Several top UK hairdressers have revealed the core items they depend on daily, from emergency knicker elastic to sentimental notes. Emma Simmons, an award-winning curly hair specialist, relies on Revlon Professional Style Masters Photo Finisher Hairspray, while Matakki scissors are her emergency tool. Freelance stylist Emma Dixon considers her Denman D38 Paddle essential for styling and detangling. Celebrity stylist Aaron Carlo champions a Mason Pearson brush as his all-rounder, saving his ghd straighteners in a crisis. Dom Capel, Creative Director at Lara Johnson Lifestyle, finds his sock diffuser crucial for natural looks, saving his Matsuzaki scissors if needed. Gareth Williams, Global Colour Ambassador at Moroccanoil, prioritises Salon Pro Foils and his Cooboard for colour application. Celebrity extensionist Kerry-Ann Buckell always carries argan oil and uses a toothbrush for flyaways. Dyson GB Styling Ambassador Chris Long packs his Dyson Supersonic hair dryer, using its attachments for diverse briefs.
These professionals showcase a blend of indispensable styling aids, personal comfort items, and specialised tools tailored to their specific disciplines, whether it's curly hair, extensions, or colour work. The recurring theme is that a stylist's kitbag is a highly personalised extension of their skillset, evolved through experience and necessity. It's interesting to note the inclusion of non-traditional items like knicker elastic, a toothbrush, or even lollipops for colour shots, highlighting the innovative thinking required in the profession. However, the insights primarily focus on individual preferences rather than a standardised approach to essential kit. This leaves a gap for further discussion on how emerging stylists can build their initial kit or how salons can support their teams in acquiring necessary equipment beyond basic salon provision.
