Nowadays, sustainability is something that most of us are aware of and consciously trying to be better at. Being eco-friendly can be applied to everything from food, clothes and waste, but getting your hair done is another factor to consider. So when I heard about Neil Moodie’s studio, I knew it was something worth checking out. Neil is well known in the industry for being one of the UK’s top hair stylists and his plethora of celebrity clients and Vogue covers proves just how incredible he is.
In July 2022 he opened The Neil Moodie Studio, a salon which prides itself on being sustainable, inclusive and welcoming. Located in bustling Spitalfields, I popped by one Thursday evening to experience it for myself.
Warmly greeted at reception, I took in the modern, clean and stylish interior. Exposed brick walls, thick natural wood and clean-cut furniture gives the salon a chic but minimal feel. Sticking to the sustainability promise, the salon features low energy LED lighting, recycled ceramic tiles and a recycled cardboard reception desk.
I was led to a workstation by Eddie, who was booked in to do my hair. The roots in my blonde hair were more than visible and it needed a serious spruce. Eddie assessed my locks, deciding to work super fine highlights through my strands to ensure that the regrowth wouldn’t be as obvious.
I sipped on tea as Eddie expertly painted the fine highlights onto my hair, as well as adding a slightly brighter blonde hue to the front of my face – perfect for summer. The salon uses L’Oreal’s sustainable brand, Pureology, and even special scales when weighing out dye to ensure minimal waste is made. Once the highlights had been applied, Eddie used a light root smudge toner on my barnet to help blend and soften the colour.
After a speedy 30 minutes, I was taken over to the basin where my newly-dyed hair was thoroughly washed and conditioned.
Back in the hair chair, Eddie snipped off my split-ends and reshaped the hair into a sharp, blunt finish. Last but not least, the styling! After spritzing my mane with a heat-protecting spray, Eddie dried my hair into a smooth finish before creating some tousled waves with a tong. I was over the moon with my blonde and bouncy ‘do. If you’re looking for a place that’s guaranteed to revive your hair in a sustainable way – (and, in a very friendly, stylish setting) – then this is the salon is for you!
Review: Kathryn Lewsey
16A Lamb Street, London, E1 6EA