Iles Formula Hair Talk Featuring Danae Selwood Of Edwards And Co Salon In Queensland

This week we are pleased to share Iles Formula Hair Talk Featuring Danae Selwood Of Edwards And Co Salon In Queensland.  Danae is a director level hairstylist at Edwards and Co in Queensland Australia, and we are excited to share her interview with you.  Hear what she has to say about her favorite products and tools, and the beauty industry today.  To see more from Danae or Edwards and Co Salon visit them on Instagram.  @danae_edwardsandco @_edwardsandco .

IF:  Tell us what you think is the biggest challenge in hairdressing today?

The general public having access to hair tools that they have no idea how to use & purchasing the wrong one for their hair type and lack of experience because they've read something on social media or online somewhere.

IF:  What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?

I love making people feel good about themselves… Especially those that have lost all faith in hairdressers from past bad experiences! Also, just the day to day interaction with my clients and colleagues. It's always so great when you make a strong connection with a complete stranger in your chair and have a good laugh.

IF:  Why did you choose the path of hairdressing and was it easy to fall into this work?

Initially I chose hairdressing because I had left school early and was looking for a creative industry I could walk straight into and start working. I had moved out of my families home at the age of 16 and was working as an office assistant. I was SO BORED. So I picked up a newspaper (that's how we used to do it back in the day) and ran my finger down the job section until I came across hairdressing and thought why not! I was cutting my own hair at the time. I was lucky enough to start at a good salon in Sydney  'Headcase Hair' where I remained for almost 12 years. I was so happy to have found what I loved. I wouldn't say it was easy but definitely worth it!

IF:  If you had not made the decision to be a hairdresser what would you have been?

A massage therapist or florist… When I was younger I wanted to become an architect or backup dancer.

IF:  What is your greatest strength?

I've been told it's keeping a calm exterior when "shit hits the fan" or in stressful situations at work.

IF:  Your favorite hairdressing tools?

I love my YS Park cutting combs, my Mizutani scissors and Ghd curling tongs!

IF:  Tell us about your relationship with Iles Formula. How you discovered us and which formula is your favorite?

When I started with Edwards and Co in Sydney just over 2 years ago. I'm obsessed with the Finishing Serum, ask anyone I've worked with… I use it on just about every client. I love how lightweight it is but yet is so silky and smooth in everyone's hair, making it so easy to detangle and work with. I put it in before cutting. I also love love love the Conditioner.

IF:  What was the most challenging job you ever made?

Personally I'm terrified of public speaking so it was probably having to get up on stage in front of 600 people in Brisbane and present my work. I much prefer to work behind the scenes.

IF:   What was your worst hair moment and why…. privately or on set/stage or in the salon?  

It's probably been the 2 times I've had to detangle hair for over 4 hours!!! For whatever reason whoever had shampooed these clients had gotten them into quite the state. It was so painstaking but was so blessed to have had such understanding and patient clients. I would also say when I was 14 and knew nothing about hair and used 'Sun In' in my hair… like a lot of Sun In. It all snapped off at the front and I had to wear a headband for a year haha.

IF:  If you could style anyone’s hair, who would it be and why?

I'd say Freja Beha Erichsen. She has such an interesting look and seems to have great hair texture to work with.

IF:  Where do you pull hair inspiration from?

All over really. Other hairdressers I have and currently work with. People on the street. Pinterest, instagram, magazines and movies.

IF:  Your advice to young hairdressers starting out?

Be willing to work hard and say yes to all experiences. Unfortunately this can mean a lot of hours in the early years but you will learn SO much and you get to decide what you want to focus on later on. Learn from as many different people as possible. Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions or just get in there and give it a go. We all have to start somewhere right?