British born Peter Dutton began his hairdressing career at the age of sixteen. After he moved to New Zealand in 2001 he spent six years hairdressing in the Auckland area before opening his own digs, Peter Dutton Hairdressing in Freemans Bay, Auckland.
How did you get into hairdressing?
While I was at school in the UK I did a week’s worth of work experience at a salon. From there I was offered weekend work – one thing led to another and soon after I began full-time hairdressing. I guess it was a good career start for a self expressing teenager.
What is your most memorable career moment?
Travelling around India for three weeks in 2005 conducting creative courses for L’Oreal was an amazing experience. As was being a judge for the L’Oreal Colour Trophy in Mumbai.
India is an amazing country and I made some lasting friendships whilst there. Also, having the opportunity to open my own salon is up there.
Do you prefer to cut or colour?
For me it’s all down to the cut. From my earliest beginnings in hairdressing I was fascinated by with shapes, lines, structure and the technical manipulation. I have always been influenced by the Vidal Sassoon principles of precision cutting.
After attending my first cutting courses at the Vidal Sassoon Academy in London in the late ’80s my passion for the cut was fuelled and focused.
Although the cut is very important to me, nothing compliments a well balanced cut more than a well placed colour – the perfect combo.
What should someone take into consideration before getting a new ‘do?
Lifestyle! There are always a few things to consider but I’ve found the best results are achieved when clients take into account their lifestyle.
If you’re the “wash and ready” type, an idea would be to use your natural texture and go for a length that falls into shape, apply suitable product and off you go.
Wash and ready hair doesn’t mean dull or boring and can still be dressed up for your glam evenings out.
How often should you use a hair treatment or masque at home?
Depending on the sensitivity or damage to the hair, once a week will improve the condition of your hair.
If your hair has been coloured, exposed to the sun or subjected to heated tools repeatedly it’s advisable to use a treatment every time you wash your hair. Condition, condition, condition.
Is it OK to wash your hair daily?
It’s preferable not to if you can get away with it. For those who must wash daily a quality shampoo and conditioner recommended by your stylist is a must. But remember, washing daily will effect the longevity of coloured hair.
Are heat-activated tools bad for the hair?
Everything in moderation. Over-use or incorrect use of heated tools can take their toll on the condition of your hair.
As a rule of thumb, always keep the tools moving through the hair, be conscious of reworking already heated areas.
Some tools provide “how to” DVDs which are well worth watching for correct technique.
Protective sprays and leave in moisturisers designed to use with heated tools can be worth investing in for the seriously addicted.
What are three key trends for summer 08/09?
1 Hair is shorter in length with longer layers creating rounder, softer fuller shapes for summer, moving away from slim, narrow square shapes.
2 Blondes with a gold accent – ranging from rusty rose gold’s to the palest honey shades.
3 Going with a natural finish – no more wet, sleek look. Natural, beautiful ruffled summer hair.
If you could choose to do the hair of any celebrity who would it be and why?
Agyness Deyn. Great face, great hair and a great look. She looks like the adventurous type, game for something new.