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Chic Copps 2009/10

This is our latest series of ad campaigns which will be featured in STYLE, one of KL's top fashion magazine. We have shared the story about this collection earlier, you would see them if you scroll down further.

We like this particular one featuring Gloria Ting. All the models in this collection are very easy to work with.They are professional, ready to accept change and fun. I will definately miss Gloria and Emmeline Ng, Gloria had relocated to L.A and Emmeline is in Melbourne currently with her family.(Emmeline, are you coming back to Malaysia?)

The whole experience from conceptualising to realizing it had been a great journey.Special thanks to all the models, our photographer-Bernard Ooi of Dreamz Studio and the team at The Met KL for styling their hair.

We are currently planning color collection 2010/11....

You think you are just a receptionist?

This is my first attempt as a writer for this established magazine, and let me start by getting something straight - I am not aiming to be a professional writer, I just wish to share a few thoughts about my passion in this industry. In later stories, I’ll share more thoughts and tips on hair related issues, but to begin, I’d like to touch on service skills.

Let’s pretend we are all customers for a while. What do you usually see when walking by a salon? Maybe you have seen this, maybe you have not, but I would definitely like to share with you what I have experienced. A few days ago I was at a shopping mall, and walked past a reputable hair salon. As usual, I am always keen to find out if the salon is busy. I think most hairdressers do that. If they are, then we envy their success, and are curious to know how to achieve it ourselves. When they are not, then we console ourselves that they are not busy either, so it is normal. Most of the time, I tend to observe more than that, because it allows me to learn, progress and stay motivated.

Reception always gets my attention, given the prominent space.

Most salon reception areas are located at the front of the salon facing the main entrance so they are a highly visible place for everyone who walks past, regardless of whether or not they are our customers. This makes the person or persons working at the reception very important. This is because they will be the first impression a customer has when walking in, and as the saying goes, first impression are lasting, which is generally true. What I saw that day was both hilarious and appalling. Imagine the scenario - two female employees of the salon at the reception, facing the main entrance, performing a hair braiding service for another female employee! This certainly left a very lasting impression for me.

Receptionists are the ambassadors of the salon; they represent the brand and the company. They are the first point of contact for customers who walk or call in. Sometimes they are also responsible for retailing, because professional hair care products are most of the time placed at the front.

The person who is responsible to work at the area should be highly competent, able to multi task and should understand what service is all about, because it involves more than just taking appointments and settling payments for customers. They’re certainly not allowed to do hair services for fellow colleagues at the reception, whatever the situation might be!

Here are the other actions that I think should not happen at the area at all. Simple actions like reading newspapers, nail filing, chit chatting in a group, the reception area left empty, phone calls ringing more than 3 times without being answered, phone calls on hold for too long, no appropriate greetings, eating, negative body language, unfriendly tones when communicating, a lack of courtesy, not being polite, and the most importantly, the most important feature of the reception area is the SMILE. In fact, even our very own government tried to implement a smile campaign, complete with its own jingle, many years ago.

It goes like this;
A smile is quite a funny thing,
It lightens up your face,
And when you smile you will never find
A secret hiding place
For more wonderful it is
To see what smile can do
You smile at me, I’ll smile at you
And so one smile makes two

I am amazed that I still remember this jingle, but I do, because it is part of me now. I smile everyday at home, at work and at play because a smile is FREE. Just smile more and the returns will be greater than you could imagine. You will have more delighted customers, which leads to rewarding business and a richer life.

(The above article will be featured in h4ufme, Malaysia's leading hairdressing magazine)

Thoughts about hair .....

I would like share some thoughts with you about a particular in-salon hair care service that consumer would normally refuse to do and feel sceptical about it.This service is called hair treatment,sound familiar? Even though it is meant to be an optional product however it is so important that without it hair would not function properly.

Here is what I think, the reason consumer feel sceptical or refuse to do may due to several reasons.One of the primary reason is the price.Hair treatment pricing are so ridiculously high to the extend that it is considered a luxury service only the high income could afford.How many times can we sustain this luxury service in order to maintain healthy and luscious hair?One single service would not be sufficient to see results.As far as I know, some salons are charging all the way to RM 380-RM400 for a complete set of treatment. Add that on to cut and color , it will cost an average RM800-RM900 which many average Malaysians could not afford due to the fact that the figure of low income to middle income earners are getting bigger each year.Treatment should not be a luxury service because it is a necessity.

Second reason may due to the perception and experience of such service. The perception is applying some cream onto hair and put on a steamer for 15 min and rinse.The result? -smooth and silky hair however this may last you for only a few washes and many just a cosmeticity result.This will cost from RM100-RM150.With this in mind, consumers are smart enough because this simple procedure is easily be converted to DIY.Save money!

Third reason may due to the technical knowledge of the stylist towards science of hair and the products which may caused wrong prescription hence results are not achieved.

Do you know that hair is made of 80% protein? The remaining 20% are minerals,pigments,lipids and carbohydrates. Pigments is a component that determine our hair natural color, from dark brown to blonde.This is an interesting finding by science, the amount of pigments in hair is only 1%! With this interesting discovery I am amazed by my own conclusion that we have no right to touch that pigments until we have the desire to treat the 80% proteins in our hair structure!

Problems such as dry,brittle,weaken hair are easily corrected and heal if given the right prescription to the hair.What is the point of just getting smoothness and shine where the real problem lies deep inside the hair fibre.

This is the BIG reason why I love Redken. The brand positioning of products are based on the science of hair. When science discover that hair is made of 80% protein , Redken created a full protein based products to feed the hair.When science discover that the color ingredient will swell up the hair cuticle in order for the fashion color to penetrate(which is by science is a normal circumstances),Redken create a special low acidity product to seal and close the swollen cuticles.Whatever science discover the consequences of any damage done to the hair,Redken has a product to fight it.

With great technical knowledge of stylists with the back up and support of great products, hair will definately remain in a healthy condition.

Trust The Met when we provide consultation for we only give you the best using Redken Chemistry System, the most powerful in-salon hair treatment. Experience a complete service comprises Pre-Art,Deep Cleansing Cream,Booster,pH shot,thermal shot and mask at a value for money price.We are in the midst of restructuring Chemistry System pricing to make sure it is an affordable service where all could enjoy healthy and luscious hair.

Will keep you updated.

The Met KL

"WORSHIP YOUR HAIR"

More visuals on CHIC COPPS

Chic Copps 2009/10 feat,Randall Wong the Hue Master

Ask any painter, photographer or artist, and they’ll tell you that color is more than just something pretty to look at. Color is really a complex, fascinating, and beautiful combination of lights, reflections and pigment.
It may be used creatively by everyone, but in truth, there is some serious science behind how we use, view, and create color.

As professional Redken Certified Hair Colorists, The Met KL have used the knowledge of science, theory, and fashion, to create an incredible color collection entitled “Chic Copps 2009/10”.

“Chic Copps” is all about being modern, urban and approachable, and it does all this without going over the top by using the warm yet electrifying shades of copper. It is about creating dimension and depth, while maintaining a light softness, and works well with any hair style or texture.
And when it comes to the health of your hair, have no fear, because beauty doesn’t always have to have a price.

Redken Certified Hair Colorists are able to achieve amazing color without altering the integrity of the hair, thanks to exact and widely researched formulations and techniques. Your hair will literally gleam with health, and with “Chic Copps” being the choice of some of Malaysia’s top celebrities, you know you’ll be the envy of everyone.

“Chic Copps” shades vary from the luxurious, sophisticated cool of Chocolate Copper, to the warm inviting summery hues of Tangerine. They are all specially formulated by our colorists at The Met to suit different skin tones and personalities without the effect of brassiness.
So, to really achieve your crowning glory, head to The Met for your consultation today, and get the copper top you always dreamed of.

My recent trip to Taiwan with Redken Taiwan

23-29 Mar 2009

Being a person who is qualified and certified as a Professional Colorist has its advantages, the benefit of travelling. March 09 had been a busy month for me as I have spent 2 weeks in Melboune, a week with Redken Malaysia and another on my own at St.Kilda beach. After a week here in KL , I left for Taiwan with the invitation of Redken Taiwan to conduct two sessions of color seminars. 1 in Taipei and 1 in Kaoshiung. My clients has been screaming for me as they could not book me for color work in Mar. Dear clients, my apology.

It was my 3rd trip to Taiwan since 2008 but this time has brought me a whole new experience of what I thought about the city. At first it was like a giant Sg.Wang ,believe me, that was my first impression when I arrived there last year. I think it was partly due to the way the trip was organized. We made stops at street markets for food,street bazaar for clothes like our wholesale fashion street ala "Ho Cheng Yuen" (Kenanga area) and what I did was making my own Starbucks stops while waiting for the hairdressers to complete their shopping spree.

This recent trip was different, I had the opportunity to experience the regular city life.Bear with me, I grew up in KL therefore I do like city lifesyle most. After the two seminars, I had a few days off on own to enjoy Taipei. I went to California gym , more Starbucks and enjoy food at

great restaurants.The express train from the North to South ,Taipei to Kaoshiung was really impressive as it took only an hour and a half to arrive.It is similar to the bullet train in Japan.

Here is my obsevation about Taiwan, despite the popularity of many chinese celebs and singers who are well known globally and its own Channel V chinese music channel, I can't really find the whole city to be metropolitan. As a matter of fact KL has more high rise buildings, the one and only world famous landmark is Taipei 101 which is very similar to our KLCC. Office tower on top and shopping mall at the lower floors.Redken Taiwan(L'oreal as the whole company) is located here so I had the time to wander around the mall.

I might be going there in Sep 09 as there will be another show there so I hope I will have a new experience again.

Cheers,

Don't buy from Sg.Wang or any other stores which is not a hair salon!!

Yes, we are referring to retail products such as shampoo, conditioner and any other styling products that you may have seen elsewhere. This is called a "diversion". Products diverted from some salons who are out of greed and short term benefits and sell to other non-salon retail stores is called "diversion". Read more about it....

WHAT IS DIVERSION?

If you don't know the answer to this question - you're not alone. Nine out of ten consumers do not know what diversion is. But you probably have witnessed it.Diversion is when products are sold in "unauthorized" places. For example, all genuine Redken products are sold exclusively in salons. But you might come across a few bottles in your local supermarket, drugstore, online or at a discounter. Salon professional products you find outside of a salon are considered to be "diverted."

WHY DIVERSION IS BAD.

Diverted products can be counterfeit, diluted formulas, or old, expired formulas that may not be safe to use. Redken states on all its advertising, "Genuine Products Guaranteed Only In Salons." This means if you buy our products in a supermarket, drugstore or any other outlet other than a salon, we cannot guarantee that it is an authentic Redken product that will perform as tested.

ARE YOU IN DANGER?

You could be. Contaminated or counterfeit products could cause irritation or even infection.

WHO IS DIVERTING PRODUCTS?

Products are diverted by unauthorized distributors and salons or their employees, plus other dishonest individuals who see profit in piracy.

Unauthorized Sales Outlets:

Any Mass Retailer

Any Mass Discount

StoreDrugstore

Grocery Store

Online Purchases from non-L’Oreal Professional Salon Products Websites

Products Websites

Please purchase Redken products from salons that can offer you the best service and product recommendations for your hair. Only products purchased in a salon are guaranteed to perform to our standards.

Thank you for supporting our salon community.

Certified Hair Colorist

The Met KL is proud to announce that our Hue Master, Randall Wong is now a Redken Certified Hair Colorist.

Becoming a Redken Certified Haircolorist requires passing a comprehensive written, practical and scenario test, based on the following criteria:

-Haircolor Principles
-Redken Haircolor Brands
-Creative Color or formulation
-Foil Placement
-Color Correction

Why would someone want to be certified?

There is a certain level of acclaim that is associated with being a Redken Certified Haircolorist. As a member of this elite group of colorists, we will be recognized for our expertise and our commitment to excellence.

The Met KL

"Worship your hair"

CHIC COPPS

CHIC COPPS is a new hair color collection conceptualized by The Met KL as part of our annual collection raised to create hair coloring awareness and aim to be the an inspiration to industry leaders and clients. It is an opportunity to showcase the wonderful colors of copper from very rich to intense.

Hair coloring division at The Met KL is one of the area we wish to promote because it is where you will experience internationally Certified Hair Colorists. Only Certified Hair Colorists would be able to create amazing color results while maintaining the integrity of hair.

CHIC COPPS is created especially to enhance hair textures and hair cuts where you will have a choice to choose from Rich Chocolate Copper to Warm Tangerine. All colors are custom-made with color formula that works only on your hair texture.

With the right color formulation and technical skills, hair will in fact benefit from the science of the ingredient in hair color products.

THE MET KL

"worship your hair"

SCIENCE OF OUR HAIRCARE PRODUCTS

Groundbreaking products through pioneering research and patented innovations
Redken’s foundation is based on an extensive knowledge and understanding of science and hair.

In 1960 when the company was founded, Redken was the first manufacturer to apply proteins and moisture to dramatically improve weakened and sensitized hair and restore strength and shine. Built on this heritage of protein and acid pH, Redken’s pioneering research has led to the most advanced products in the professional industry.

Technology is an integral part of every Redken product -- linking haircolor, texture, haircare, and styling with total synergy. Today, Redken offers a complete collection to inspire your talents. From amazing haircolor options to advanced haircare solutions and creative styling products – for both men and women – Redken offers you an extensive portfolio of products that combine fashion and innovation for the most inspiring collection around.

As a Professional Hair Colorist , I have been engaged to conduct color seminars around the region. I have the opportunity to share my skills with fellow hairdressers in Thailand, Singapore, Taiwan, India, Hong Kong and of course Malaysia.

After each seminar or workshop , I must have a short questions and answers session. What I found out each time was hairdressers and clients does have the same perception about highlighting hair.

Both parties would think highlights as stripes and yellow or blonde in color. Do you know that highlighting hair need some basic skills and knowledge in analysing hair as well? Questions like when do we apply a think , medium or chunky weave? Where should we place the highlights, just on the crown, all over like full head or just at the perimeter of hairline framing the face?

Now , let me share with you that highlightng hair need not yellow or stripy all the time unless requested. To me , highlights are all about creating movements to the hair, make your hair feel lighter and define. Don't you agree that most of the haircuts or hairstyles on the street carries some sort of layering? With the exception of a one length cut or sometimes bob, all hair cuts need some kind of color work to enhance the total look.

Highlights could be achieve with just a shade lighter or up to 5 shades lighter if you want it to. A soft caramel , butterscotch or honey highlights can do so well on Asian natural dark brown base. A deep mahagony violet like a blend of cranberry with grapes work as good or a warm tangerine to add some warmth to the base. See how "delicious" our hair can go , the possibilities are limitless as long as we do a professional consultation with your hair colorist.

So the next time you see your hairdresser , be sure you communicate openly or better still visit us because only us carries the title Redken Certified Hair Colorist.

"Worship your hair"

WIIFM - WHATS IN IT FOR ME? If you choose The Met KL-Redken Loft.

Whether you're heading in for first-time color, or ready to try out a bold new fashion look, visiting a Redken Salon is always an opportunity for you to benefit from your stylist's expertise. A consultation with your Redken Stylist to discuss your ideas and inspirations, your hair's needs, and your desired color result is a valuable conversation that can make the difference between haircolor that's everyday and haircolor that's extraordinary.

Achieve the Look You Want.

Whether you bring in a picture or have a particular goal in mind, your Redken stylist can help you achieve the look you want – in a way that’s right for you. Looking for the latest runway styles. You’ve come to the right place! Redken keeps both you and your stylist up to date on the hottest trends. To get a fresh-from-the-runway look, check out the fashion week section for inspiration and visit your Redken stylist!

Customization

Each time you visit your Redken Stylist, your session will be customized just for you. Whether you’re looking for first-time color, trying a new look, or going for regular maintenance, your stylist will personalize your visit according to your unique needs. With every haircolor service, your Redken Stylist will use advanced application techniques and combine custom color formulations to give you looks that aren’t available anywhere else.

Get Expert Advice.

Did you know about all the education opportunities for stylists – even AFTER they completed beauty school? Redken stylists not only gain years of experience working behind the chair, but they also take Redken classes to advance their skills and knowledge of hair design and haircolor throughout their careers.

Develop a Relationship

Much like visiting the same doctor for your health, getting to know your Redken stylist can improve the health of your hair. Visit your salon on a regular basis to allow your stylist to get to know you, your hair, and your style.Pamper YourselfLooking to get away? Take a break and head to your Redken salon. Find a Redken Salon near you that can provide professional treatments and the luxury experience you deserve.

Beware of Diversion

What is diversion? That’s when products are sold in “unauthorized” places such as local supermarkets, drugstores, discount stores or online. These diverted products could be counterfeit, diluted or expired formulas which may not be safe to use.

A Redken Stylist has special skills resulting from years of training and experience.

That expertise, combined with Redken's high-performance haircolor products, is the foundation for perfect color results. Following your consultation, your stylist will create your personalized color formulation and use advanced application procedures to give you looks that aren't available anywhere else. You'll walk out with head-turning hair!