Chris Appleton's Expert Guide to Transforming Your Hair Routine
When it comes to A-list celebrity hair, Chris Appleton stands as the mastermind behind some of the most iconic looks of the past decade. From Kim Kardashian's sleek glass hair to Jennifer Lopez's voluminous bombshell waves, his signature style is consistently polished, glossy, and meticulously intentional. Therefore, when he offers advice on escaping a hair rut, it is wise to listen attentively. Speaking candidly on Grace Beverley's Working Hard podcast, Appleton provided refreshingly honest insights into the common habits that hold people back, alongside surprisingly simple methods to elevate your daily hair routine.
The Real Reason You Are Stuck in a Hair Rut
If you have ever found yourself requesting the same haircut repeatedly or styling your hair identically every single day, Appleton assures you that you are not alone. However, the core issue is not a lack of available options; rather, it is a fundamental lack of direction and inspiration. His straightforward solution? Begin actively collecting visual inspiration.
'I love pictures. I love looking at things that you like the look of,' he explains. 'It might be way off from where you are at right now, but I would look at as many pictures and usually there is a common theme.' Whether you are saving TikTok videos late at night or building a Pinterest board during your commute, Appleton advises paying close attention to emerging patterns. Are you consistently drawn to lighter hair tones, more layers, or curtain bangs? Identifying these recurring elements is crucial for helping both you and your stylist craft a look that genuinely feels authentic and personal.
'Pictures, for me, help you tell the story,' he adds. This represents the kind of low-effort, high-impact advice that is both practical and empowering.
The Common Mistake That Could Be Sabotaging Your Hair
According to Appleton, one of the most significant red flags in any hair routine revolves around a universal activity: washing. However, the problem is not necessarily frequency; it is technique. 'Washing your hair like it is laundry,' he states, 'is a major mistake. I think people are so rough and aggressive with their scalp.'
Instead, he emphasises that scalp care deserves the same meticulous attention as skincare. 'Your scalp is a continuation of your skin,' he explains, noting that neglect can lead to reduced hair density and poorer-quality regrowth over time. He also highlights that collagen loss, approximately one percent per year after age twenty-five, significantly impacts how our hair feels and behaves. This is where targeted treatments become essential.
Using a nightly serum, such as Color Wow's Youth Juice, can support healthier growth and improve overall hair quality. As he describes, 'not only is it going to encourage hair growth... but the quality of the hair is a lot better.' In summary, if your hair feels thinner, weaker, or simply not as vibrant as before, your scalp might be the optimal starting point for revitalisation.
The Styling Trick That Makes Curls Actually Last
If you have ever spent thirty minutes curling your hair only to watch it fall flat within an hour, Appleton suggests the issue might be that your hair is too clean. 'A lot of the time with curls, when your hair is too soft because it has just been washed, it is too slippy,' he clarifies. This explains why slightly 'lived-in' hair often holds styles more effectively.
His solution focuses on building grip before even picking up a curling iron. 'I love Color Wow's Style On Steroids texturising spray because it has heat protection in it,' he says. 'It gives the hair this kind of lived-in texture... but it is not sticky or stiff and it really holds the curls.' The technique is paramount here. Appleton recommends spraying each section before curling to establish essential hold from the outset. Then, once your entire head is styled, lock everything in place with a strong yet flexible hairspray.
'The ultimate flex is the Texas Hold 'Em Big Hold Hairspray because it is just a really strong-hold hairspray that keeps it in place,' he notes. Importantly, he is not advocating for crunchy, helmet-like finishes. 'The nicest thing about all of them is that they are all kind of brushable... your hair is back to hair.' Ultimately, achieving natural, lasting style without stiffness is the ideal goal for any hair enthusiast.
