Let your hair do the talking

beauty interview

This week, in a candid interview, ace hairstylist Humaa Tahir talks about her passion and love for grooming ...

Whether you want a whole new look or just want to breathe fresh life into your hair; the right hair cut can give you confidence, enhance your mood, and make you feel sexy again. Changing your hair style can go wonderfully right - or horribly wrong. That’s why so many women like to go to professional hair stylist to achieve the desired look. And when it comes to hair stylists Humaa Tahir, who has been in the grooming business since 24 years, seems to be the perfect choice. She worked with ace stylist Saima and few other beauticians before opening her own salon - ‘Humaa n Zara’ almost eight years ago in Karachi. Humaa has done six courses from Lebanon in which she learnt latest techniques of cuts, colours and styles. Humaa has also completed her Yoga Teacher Training course and plans to start her Yoga classes soon.

Humaa is an experienced grooming trainer who has conducted workshops and trainings for staff members of various organisations.

Currently she is the official educator at Pivot Point Academy, Pakistan. Her interpersonal skills and her ability to connect with her listeners make her an apt choice for many workshops and trainings. This week in a candid interview with You! Humaa reflects on her journey and how she loves being a hairstylist over the years...

You! What inspired you to become a hair stylist?

Humaa Tahir: I think I am a born artist. It’s my passion. I was naturally good at cuts and becoming a hairstylist was an obvious choice. Since I am a colourist too, I enjoy experimenting with different hues.

You! What made you decide to join Pivot Point Academy?

H.T: I have got training from Pivot Point Singapore and Pakistan. Pivot Point Pakistan offers workshops and courses in haircuts, colour and styling. It’s the only Academy which gives basic education and teaches on a professional level. I am happy to be a part of the academy as an educator as I feel that Pakistan needs well informed and educated hairstylists.

You! What is your main goal for grooming new girls?

H.T: My main aim is to teach them basic know-how. Some girls are good at their work but they lack professional knowledge.

You! What do you love most about your job?

H.T: There is never a dull moment. There is so much creativity involved. It always gives me a kick when I give someone a fresh look.

You! What is the biggest challenge hair stylists face?

H.T: I think the biggest challenge hairstylists face is that they can’t show their real creativity when it comes to modern haircuts. Actually our women are afraid of experimenting with haircuts and creativity.

They are more concerned about their family members how would they react. Out of 100 only 5 to 7 women are bold enough to go for edgy cuts.

You! What’s latest in hair internationally this season?

H.T: Short bobs of all types.

You! What hair styles are totally over?

H.T: Straight hair or Straightening treatments.

You! What kind of hair styles are in this season?

H.T: In Pakistan long hair with layers.

You! What hair colours are in these days?

H.T: Burgundy, violets and golds.

You! It’s shadi season too, what kind of style look is in among brides-to be?

H.T: It has to be neat and simple.

You! What’s your signature style?

H.T: Shorter, longer layers with lots of volume in hair. Wash-n-go cuts. Easy to style.

You! Do you emphasis on oiling one’s hair on regular basis?

H.T: No. Oil has to be washed out when you go out.

You! What is your favourite hair styling product?

H.T: Curl cream from Boots

You! What are some of the most common mistakes women tend to make while going for a cut?

H.T: They want a brand new look but they don’t want to cut their hair length.

It’s actually out of question to give someone a new look without cutting the length.

You! Are there any trends that you absolutely love?

H.T: I love all of it

You! To-date you have done hair cut of many celebrities and models. Do you wish to do haircut of any international celebrity?

Humaa: I have done haircuts of many celebrities including ex super-models Vaneeza and Iraj. However, no international celebrity in mind right now.

You! How do you wish to make a change in the styling scene in Karachi/Lahore?

H.T: I wish I can change the mindset of a house wife or a student to be more innovative or confident about their own style.

You! How one can take proper care of one’s hair? Any hair care tip you would like to share with your readers?

H.T: Take care of your health by eating proper healthy food. Keep a routine of healthy activities like walking and exercise.

You! Where do you see yourself in next five years?

H.T: No high ambitions. Want to go with the flow. Yes, I do want to see more professional girls in the field in coming years!