Beauty Boss Girls: Audrey D’souza, Head Of Styling — Bed Head TIGI

On her early beginnings as a hairdresser

I started my journey as a hairdresser in 2008. As I grew, I kept learning new techniques and fell in love with this industry. I loved the whole experience of meeting new people, new hairdressers, sharing my knowledge and gaining as much information I could for every project I was a part of. I’ve always found myself leaning towards styling; it has always been my strength.

As TIGI is a styling brand, I’ve always had the opportunity to explore many different artistic looks. I was part of the TIGI team backstage at Lakme Fashion Week, and the experience was surreal. Every season, the energy is high, each expert works their magic on a host of stunning models, and it’s a creative oasis from the get-go. I’ve been a part of the industry for 13 years, and I’m extremely grateful to be here.

 On her being a *total* boss lady in a competitive industry

I’ve never faced any issues as a woman in this industry. In fact, it’s been inspiring and refreshing to see women represent hairdressing on large platforms. No matter your skin tone, gender or background, there's a place for everyone here, as long as you have the talent and perseverance.

I have been training other hairdressers for almost eight years now and have loved every minute of it. We have a hairdressing challenge called the TIGI Backstage Heroes that engages more than 3000 hairdressers across India. During one of the editions, I had the opportunity to share the stage with international TIGI Experts Ralf Boss, Regional Education Director TIGI (Asia), and Andy Cheong, Regional Education Director, TIGI Copyright Colour (Asia), to showcase the latest global cuts and trends for the upcoming season. We wowed audiences with our presentation, which included seven looks and three high-drama fantasy looks. This was a truly amazing experience and my boss lady moment as I took centre stage to represent TIGI.

On her learnings attained over the years that have helped her reach her true potential

Don’t settle for the ordinary. In a world that is changing quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks. Get rid of the fear, and don’t be afraid to try something new every day. If this can be your mantra, you will definitely end up doing something remarkable in life. I have never been afraid to experiment.

I was the first educator to represent TIGI at Asia Educator Training at TIGI Taipei Academy, which was one of the highlights of my career. Working with the 20 best educators in Asia, designing looks, creating new collections, discussing trends, inspirations, mood boards has been a sensational experience. I’ve also learnt that as a hairdresser and a trainer, patience truly is a virtue, whether it’s with your clients, colleagues or anyone else you meet. You need to work hard, be dedicated to your craft and always be open to learning and collaborating with others. These are not just lessons as a hairdresser, but life lessons as well.

On her own skincare and haircare routine 

I religiously cleanse, tone and moisturise my skin, topping it up with sunscreen, whether I’m at home or going out. I swear by Dermalogica for my skincare; their Ultracalming Cleanser, Daily Microfoliant, Multi-Active Toner, and Prisma Protect SPF30 Sunscreen (which has a built-in moisturiser) are a part of my daily routine.

My hair care routine starts with freshly cleansed, out-of-the-shower hair that's been towel-dried. For this, I always use the TIGI Level 2 Bed Head Recovery shampoo and conditioner, which gives my hair a rush of hydration.

Applying products to very wet hair makes it hard for any product to absorb and dilute it. So I always towel dry my hair well before applying my absolute favourite TIGI Bed Head Control Freak Serum. It is a light, greaseless, frizz-fighting serum that helps fight humidity and leaves my hair smooth and silky! 

On her ‘Boss lady on a break’ makeup and hair look 

When I’m not on the job, a touch of eyeliner, mascara, minimal blush, and lip balm does the trick. I love to experiment, so I try to style my hair differently, be it curly, straight or even tied up. If my hair is not sitting right, I braid my hair in different ways to add some extra texture. In this case, I always have my quick fix TIGI Bed Head After Party Smoothing Cream, which is the ultimate anti-frizz hair product that keeps my locks in place.

Her go-to hair styling tip for super rushed mornings?

A messy bun is my go-to style for super rushed mornings. Gather your hair where you want the bun to be placed. Wrap a hair tie around your hair once. Wrap the hair tie over your ponytail a second time to make a looped bun. Wrap the ends that are still sticking out around the base of your looped bun and secure them with bobby pins. 

The only product that saves my bun from falling flat is the TIGI Bed Head Oh Bee Hive - it is an epic volumising dry shampoo with a light, matte finish and is great for brunette hair as it doesn’t leave any white residue.

On the hairdressing community, being inclusive in nature

Hairdressing is a profession that has appealed to both male and female practitioners. The hairdressing and barbering community needs to listen to their clients and recognise that clients are the experts of their own identity and know what they want. At TIGI, we believe everyone that everyone is equal. We’re continually encouraging people, customers and stylists alike to embrace their natural hair texture and form. There’s no need to be someone you’re not. Celebrate “you” in all your glory, and our products and styles let you do just that.