The top hair trends of 2024, according to a veteran hairstylist in Singapore

The other trend to take note of is the different variations of layered haircuts.

Korean hairstyles are experiencing a significant evolution, moving away from the heavier, minimally layered cuts that defined the scene five to ten years ago. Layers are making a triumphant comeback and are poised to become more prominent than ever in 2024, influenced by the resurgence of the Y2K fashion trend and dynamic hairstyles from the 2000s.

The most obvious trend is fringe with forward face-framing layers as seen in popular hairstyles like the Butterfly Haircut, Hush Cuts, and C-shape Haircut. The revival of layers extends beyond conventional hairstyling trends, even impacting Korean perms. There's a discernible transition from the well-coiffed, pageant-like curls of yesteryears to a contemporary preference for thinner, more layered hair ends.  

Among female Korean celebrities rocking short or shoulder-length hair, a notable trend that has gained immense popularity is the Hush Cut, evident in the styles of several prominent figures such as Shuhua from Le Sserafim, Wendy from Red Velvet, and Nayeon and Momo from Twice. A Hush Cut is like a layered Lob (Long Bob) or Bob. Typically accompanied by airy bangs, curtain fringe or face-framing layers, the Hush Cut maintains weight on top while texturising the mid-lengths and ends to impart a sense of movement to the hair.

Expected to continue as a prominent choice in 2024, the Hush Cut stands out for its highly wearable and subtle nature. In contrast to its more daring counterpart, the Wolf Cut, the Hush Cut exudes controlled rebellion without venturing into excessive wildness, making it accessible to a broader audience. Moreover, it represents a refreshing departure from the standard bob or lob styles that have dominated the hair scene for the past decade.

Forward face-framing layers such as Butterfly Haircuts and C-shaped Haircuts—a revisit to the popular '90s Jennifer Aniston hairstyle—are back in trend. This explains why the Koreans are steering away from the era of neat, one-length C-curl perms. Instead, the latest trend is all about embracing effortlessly tousled and layered C-curls with natural movement that frames the face beautifully—a perm service to complement the Butterfly Haircut and C-shaped Haircut trends.

How have celebrity hairstyles influenced the trends we are seeing this year?
In Singapore, customers are still taking cues from K-beauty, K-Wave, Korean Celebrities, and K-Pop, thanks to the Hallyu wave that is still going strong. But there’s another influence on hair trends lately, and that is the Chinese social media site, XiaoHongShu. Though not celebrity-specific, many customers reference this mega social media platform when visiting the salon. There is a rise in the new Chinese-style hair trends and techniques. Chinese hairstylists are excellent at creating styles suitable for East Asians, and their social media marketing makes these styles enticing to the public.

Are there any specific hair colours or highlights that are particularly trendy this year?
If you’ve scrolled through Lemon8, XiaoHongShu, TikTok, or Instagram, you’ve likely seen a new trend known as "foggy non-bleach hair colour". No bleach means less damage, and achieving these irresistible colours is now possible.

Foggy bleach-free hair colours are one-tone trendy hues characterised by a subtle, foggy, grey, or ashy appearance with nuances of dark pastel and lower saturation levels.

These understatedly chic shades are created without using harsh bleach. Hence, minimising hair damage considerably. This latest technique allows customers to achieve these gorgeous shades that previously required bleach.

The foggy bleach-free hair colouring technique is not feasible for medium-coarse or coarse hair texture, hair that has been dyed black or with very dark brown or red repeatedly, and box-dyed or henna-coloured hair. These hair types often contain too much red or artificial dark pigments.

Reverse Ombre is taking the world by storm, thanks to K-pop boy group members like Dino from Seventeen, Giuk from ONEWE, and Younghoon from The Boyz. Female fans are also jumping on this trend. At Chez Vous: HideAway, more and more women are requesting this distinctive look, making it a must-try trend in 2024.

Have hair treatments become more popular among your clients? What are some popular treatments and why are they beneficial?
Absolutely! Thanks to the Liquid Hair trend, the quest for healthy, smooth, and shiny hair is bigger than ever. Here are some of the latest treatments that are worth trying:

1. For hair straightening: Nanoplasty or Nanoplastia
   
   Nanoplasty (or Nanoplastia) is the latest breakthrough for sleek, straight, and frizz-free locks. It offers the highest straightening intensity and longest-lasting anti-frizz benefits without harsh chemicals, using safe and clean ingredients for that sought-after glass hair effect. Ideal for those seeking smooth, straight hair without damage.
   
   
2. For damaged and dry hair: Liquid Hair Treatment
   
   This treatment uses oil-based nanotechnology to repair bonds deep within the hair, reversing years of structural damage from the inside out. It boosts hydration by 50 per cent and reduces frizz by 70 per cent, making hair healthier, softer, and shinier with each treatment. This is ideal for those with damaged, dry hair looking for real, lasting repair.
   
   
3. For anti-frizz: Sugar Hair Lamination
   
   Sugar Hair Lamination is the next-gen smoothing treatment that offers fluidity, movement, and shine without stiffness. Using sugar instead of acids and keratin, it de-frizzes hair by up to 60 per cent while maintaining a natural look. This is perfect for those who want neat, smooth strands without going pin-straight. 

What tips do you have for someone looking to update their hair look in 2024?

1. Healthy bonds are essential
   
   Bond repair reduces damage from chemical services and helps hold the hair in place. Top homecare recommendations: Epres Bond Repair Treatment and K18 Leave-in Molecular Repair Hair Mask.
   
   
2. Find a style that suites your lifestyle
   
   Consider the maintenance and styling effort needed for your desired style. Also, check how often you'll need to visit the salon to keep the look fresh.
   
   
3. Invest in the right tools
   Tools like the Dyson Airstrait or Airwrap can help you recreate salon looks at home with ease.

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