Industry Insider: Andrew Masson
I was slightly hesitant to do this interview. Why you ask? Well, sharing your hairstylist is kind of a sacred thing. But, I do realize, it’s hard to find a good hairstylist. So I shall introduce you to mine. Meet ANDREW MASSON. First introduced to me by Nicole from Style Spy, Andrew has since been managing our tresses along with a few of our friends. Originally from Dundee, Scotland in the UK, Andrew is now based at Axis on West Georgia Street in downtown Vancouver. He’s talented, super nice and yes ladies, he does have a dreamy accent.
When and how did you decide to move to Vancouver?
After travelling across the United States and with the intention of working my way across Canada, I arrived here on the West coast just over 2 years ago in June, 2009. Right now, I cannot see past this incredible city!
How did you get started in the hair and beauty industry?
A good friend and fellow hairstylist inspired me. It was through him that I was able to gain an insight into the industry and almost 7 years ago, I was fortunate enough to begin my apprenticeship with current Scottish Hairdresser of the year, Kay McIntyre at McIntyre Salons, Dundee. It was here that I built my foundations, working initially as a colour technician and then later as a stylist.
Any major differences between Canadian and British clients?
Compared to the city that I’m from in Scotland, Vancouver is considerably more culturally diverse. I definitely appreciate the variation in hair types as well as the different trends that are apparent in different cultures. However, I would say that generally speaking, in some ways clients here are a little ‘safer’ with their hair. In the U.K, I feel like people can tend to be a little more ‘daring’, especially when it comes to colour. With that being said, I would say that these days, trends are pretty universal, with different parts of the world taking them to different extremes. I see hair as being significantly more feminine here and though it may be a ‘west coast thing’, in my opinion, nothing beats a modern twist on classically beautiful hair.
Which celebs have the best hair?
Absolutely any one of the Victoria’s Secret models! Obviously.
What are some of the top hair trends right now?
Looking around, it is clear to see that there is a huge emphasis on body and all different kinds of movement and texture. Curls are most definitely back and the days of super sleek, straightened locks appear to be outnumbered. As far as colour is concerned, we are still seeing a lot of ‘ombre’, as well as other lower maintenance techniques. As always, you will never go wrong with beautiful, multi-tonal highlights, right across the shade chart. For those a little more daring, 3D colour is making an impact and with Summer almost in full swing, blondes can be more playful with pastel hues, particularly peachy and pinky, and redheads even more intense.
What do you love most about your job?
I actually love the fact that I don’t have a 9-5 job, my days and weeks are varied. I really appreciate the sociable aspect of my profession but one of the most motivating things to me is that our industry is constantly changing. With fashion, hair evolves and I am constantly learning, which I find inspiring as a hairstylist. However, over all of this, the most satisfying part of my job is making clients feel good about themselves and seeing the impact that our creativity can have on their lives.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I am in the process of applying for residency so I’d like to see myself being based here in North America, permanently and hopefully being able to explore other avenues of the hair and beauty industry.
Hair product you can’t live without?
One that I use every single day of my working life is ‘Be-ach’ from the Axis line. Formulated locally and produced inside of Canada, like all of the other Axis products, this is seriously one of the most versatile – I use it not only as a body builder that activates and encourages movement but also, this sea salt spray effortlessly refreshes styles, creating texture and definition.
Hair tool you can’t live without?
My GHD flat iron. I find it superior when it comes to all kinds of styling.
Where can readers find you?
Axis Hair Salon, 1111 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC, 604-685-0200
What do you charge?
Cuts from $50. Colour – Root touch ups, all over colours and partial foils from $60, highlights starting at $120.
