Winter is the perfect time to play with finish. As the weather cools and celebrations stack up, hair takes on a starring role.
The question is: should your clients’ style gleam with light-catching shine or hold its ground in a velvety matte finish? Each finish sends a different message and knowing when to choose which can elevate the look from ordinary to editorial.
When to Choose Shine
Shine speaks the language of polish and confidence. A glossy finish reflects light, giving hair an instantly healthy, luxe appearance. It’s perfect for formal gatherings, evenings out, and moments where sophistication matters. Shine complements sleek tailoring, sharp partings, and any style that calls for presence.
When to Choose Matte
Matte tells a different story with different chapters like understated, textured, and modern. Without reflection, it adds depth, grit, and effortless cool. Matte works best for casual settings, creative environments, or when you want hair to hold its shape without looking “done.” It’s versatile for both messy texture and structured cuts, projecting edge and approachability in one.
Shine
The Sleek Side-Part
- Work a nickel-sized amount of high-shine styling product through damp hair.
- Comb into a deep side part and blow-dry flat with a paddle brush.
- Finish with a touch of pomade for a mirror-like gloss.
Perfect for: winter galas, formal dinners, or when your client’s outfit calls for crisp confidence.
Matte
The Textured Crop
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Apply matte cream or paste to dry hair, or a matte styler, to damp or dry hair. Lakme’s K.Finish Matt Working Wax works great as it separates, defines and shapes. Push hair upward and slightly back using fingers (avoid the comb!) to keep texture alive.
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Lock it in with a light mist of hairspray.
Perfect for: a night out with friends or a good ol’ fashioned shin-dig where style rules without stiffness.
Hybrid
The Sleek Side-Part
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To enhance natural waves and texture, pump ECRU New York Air-Dry Foam into hands. Follow with a dab of shine serum, like REF’s Shine Elixir in your palms.
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Rake through medium-length hair for subtle definition.
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Scrunch lightly at the ends for movement. To maximize texture and waves, twist damp hair into large sections and allow to air dry.
Perfect for: daytime gatherings, casual office days, or après-ski dinners. Effortless yet intentional.
In Closing
Shine versus matte is about intention. Shine amplifies polish and presence, while matte leans into character and edge. This season, switch between the two, and blend them for balance. After all, the right finish illustrates the story you want to portray.
