Who knew that this crisis would bring about so many existential questions? There are some big ones that instantly come to mind about equity and classism, as an example. Let’s call those “A list” crises. Just like there are B, C and D list celebrities, there are D list crises. We adore our D list celebrities and they matter to us — think Jerry on Cheer (by the way, this will make you feel very good.)

In the same way, we’ve got “D list” quarantine crises. Some of the most prominent involve how to look and feel good everyday without regular visits to the hairstylist. That can be hard to do when your grey is growing out or your roots are four inches long. Whether or not to go natural is a big decision for women. Are you someone who wants to embrace the grey and find beauty in the natural or do you find it depressing? We’re all strongly in one camp or the other.

Personally, my roots are dark brown and fortunately, they work as they grow out. But, if all of my hair was brown, I would feel that a large part of my identity was lost. After all, can you imagine me without red hair? I didn’t think so.

With that in mind I asked my hairstylist, Lindsay Brabank, to help the Poplin community solve two of the biggest hair challenges in quarantine: 1. How do I cut my own bangs and 2. What do I do about my roots? She has generously offered up advice for both. So, this post will be split into two.

Before we dive into her post, you should know that Lindsay has been the genius behind my hair color and cuts for the past few years. Every product she uses is chemical free and she has a wealth of information, having been a hairstylist for over 17 years. She also gives back to the community generously including hosting a successful fundraiser to help provide food and water to folks crossing the border. In short, she’s amazing and I hope that you find her info helpful AND that you support her as a small businesswoman hit hard by the pandemic.

Here we go!

A Professional’s Guide to Hiding Your Roots from Lindsay Brabank, Spruce Salon and Spa

Start with Organic

1. Over 10 years ago I made the choice to only use products that meet European Safety Standards. Those standards are much higher than in the US and are the healthier choice for me and my clients. While the domestic industry is slowly moving in the right direction, the beauty industry here is not regulated to the same degree. Not only are these products better for all of us, ammonia free color actually performs better.

Choose your product

It may be tempting to color at home right now, but I recommend a temporary touch up product instead. These are intended to be used in between coloring services and wash out with shampoo, so there’s no long term commitment. Your hair will look better and you’ll still have the opportunity for a professional color when social distancing guidelines ease. This is my favorite. It’s affordable ($29) and doesn’t run or smear.

Choose your color

One of the biggest fears about doing your own color after working with a professional for so long is choosing the right one. Some clients can find this especially intimidating. I’m happy to help you choose the right color for you and to provide no contact product delivery to make the process easy.

Make a plan for your next salon appointment

Right now, it’s hard to know when to schedule your next appointment. But, if you are concerned about your color, you definitely don’t want to wait. My clients are on a waitlist and we’ll reach out to each one when salon appointments can be scheduled and yes, I’m accepting new clients right now.

I work at Spruce Salon and Spa. It’s a clean air salon, meaning no formaldehyde or ammonia is used on the premises. Everything I use is ppd free, resorcinol free, and have added plant extracts and minerals to infuse the hair with moisture and shine. Products are low or non toxic. The full service salon offers organic facials and low toxic nail services, as well.

To book: Text or call me at (206) 458-1406 to schedule an appointment, order root spray or schedule virtual assistance with coloring, bang trims, hair clean ups or other hair care needs.

P.S. Be on the lookout for Lindsay’s bang trim tutorial in the next post of the In It Together Series.