Meeting Leading Beauty Expert Tatiana Karelina
Top entrepreneur and leading beauty expert, Tatiana Karelina has made waves in the beauty industry having provided the most glamorous ladies the most glamourous hair dos! Known for luxe hair extensions, her and her team are renowned for providing a top quality service and of course, enviable locks. With branches in London, her flagship being in Kensington, she has her sights set on Los Angeles in early 2017.
How did you get into the beauty industry?
I always had an interest in the creative things. Hair became some sort of outlet for creativity for me. We opened our first salon in London in 2009. I was born in Russian and trained in New York. We were the first to break from using damaging glue to attach the extension hair and the first, given our local knowledge, to be able to source extension hair directly from Russia. In doing so we were able guarantee our clientele that they are getting hair of the highest quality and by eliminating the “hair broker” the most competitive prices.
What’s your daily get ready routine?
I pretty much always up by 7.30 and after a quick banana porridge, almond latte and a play with my toddler I am out of the house, usually by 8.30am. My first destination is the gym 4-5 mornings a week. I don’t drive or take public transport unless I am in a rush, I walk instead. My energy levels are high in the mornings but my brain is not awaken so I find workout being very helpful and energising. I shower, change and get ready for work in the gym, its only around the corner from the London salon where I spend most of my time.
What are your top 5 tips for keeping your extensions in the best condition?
- Use a soft-bristle brush
- Shampoo for normal hair, it could be organic sulphate free one
- Always apply nourishing oil or conditioner on the ends after washing
- Protect from the sun and from the heat with the heat protector spray
- Never keep them in longer than you are allowed, don’t skip maintenanc
e appointments
Other than hair, are there any other aspects of the beauty industry that you love?
I am so lucky that I have found a career that I love so much. I really am doing my part to create positive change in the world—one Head of Hair at a time. I am convinced though that great hair works amazing with the good skin and well-manicured nails etc – it’s never one aspect but a whole package. I always had an intense passion for learning. Between industry magazines, books, trade shows, webinars, blogs, classes and websites, the opportunities to learn are endless. I am truly a believer that in all professions, you must stay up to date with everything that’s going on in the industry to be at the top of your own game.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Living and working between London, NYC, LA and Dubai where we will open Tatiana Karelina salons specialising in amazing Russian Hair Extensions. We already have fans around the world and LA salon is set to open in February 2017 so I guess its a very realistic plan.
