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I don’t know who I love more–Kerry Washington or Olivia Pope. Yes, I’m one of those crazies who declines all calls and goes into a complete trance at 9pm every Thursday when Scandal comes on. I’m a gladiator, baby! (Or so I like to believe.)
So obviously when given the chance to interview Kerry Washington’s hairstylist, Takisha Sturdivant-Drew, I didn’t even think twice. Not only has she actually touched Kerry Washington’s hair, but she is a legit guru. Get her best hair tips–plus, the requisite dish on Kerry Washington herself!–below.
SHEfinds: You’ve been styling hair for many years–what’s the one tip/trick you learned early on that’s served you well over the years?
Takisha Sturdivant-Drew: The one trick I learned early on is not to add product to the hair before styling it. If you want the hair to have movement, using little or no product is always good. As long you you’re using a great shampoo and conditioner, you really don’t need any other product.
Another important thing I’ve learned as a hairstylist is that every client isn’t for you. Sometimes your personality won’t mesh well with a client because you’re not on the same page when it comes to styling, and that’s ok. You don’t take it personal, just move on.
SF: What’s the one hair tool every woman should have in her arsenal?
TSD: I LOVE the Nano Titanium BaByliss Pro. It’s definitely a must-have! It straightens and curls the hair so well but still leaves the hair with a nice shine. I have four of them.
SF: What products are you loving now and why?
TSD: I’m LOVING the Neutrogena Anti-Residue Shampoo and the Neutrogena Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask. The shampoo is a once a week shampoo that removes the residue and buildup off the hair and scalp. Think of it as a detox for your locks! The conditioner is a moisturizing conditioner that’s going to leave your hair soft and shiny. It also strengthens your hair at the same time and it’s great if you have split ends.
SF: Are there any hair trends for fall/winter that you’re really excited about?
TSD: Yes! The Lob, where one side is shorter and the hair is longer on the other side with lots of different colors is going to be huge. Also, the hair shaved on one side, but just right above the ear is going to be a big trend, too.
SF: Besides being a celebrity hair guru, what’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
TSD: I’m very low key and never like to be seen. (Editor’s note: It’s true! I tried to find a photo of her in celebrity photo database and there wasn’t one!)
SF: Gratuitous Kerry Washington question–what kind of client is she? Chill? High maintenance?
TSD: Kerry is so sweet and beyond chill. She’s fun, smart, sharing, and very low key as well. I always love working with her; she really is a blessing from up above.
Be sure to check out 6 fall beauty myths debunked and how to make your pores look invisible.
