From L’Oréal Colour Specialist to 2025 Trophy Finalist

When I left school at 15 to pursue hairdressing, I never imagined I’d one day hold a degree level qualification in hair colour.

L’Oréal Colour Specialist in Twickenham, Why This Degree Sets Me Apart

Becoming a L’Oréal Colour Specialist is one of the highest achievements in our industry , often called the “PhD of hair colour” and it’s something that shapes every colour service I deliver at Piper Violet Hair in Twickenham.

The Science Behind Beautiful Colour

The L’Oréal Colour Specialist degree is a three-month, intensive technical course with a challenging science based theory exam. We study the chemistry of colour, hair structure, pigment behaviour, and precision formulation. This isn’t about mixing colour by eye , it’s about creating predictable, tailored results every single time.

When I trained, I was running Charles Worthington as salon manager and educator. Balancing that with late night studying and practical work wasn’t easy, but I was determined to make the most of the £3,000+ investment my boss made in me. That dedication means my clients today get the benefit of world class expertise at every appointment.

Colour Correction Expert, From Black Box Dye to Blonde

Thanks to my training, I don’t fear technical colour work, I love it. Whether it’s taking hair from years of black box dye to creamy blonde or rebuilding strength after over-processing, I see every challenge as a creative opportunity.

Colour correction is one of my favourite services. I never want anyone to feel unhappy with their hair, but I love when a client walks out smiling after we’ve transformed something they once hated. It’s not just a new colour, it’s a confidence boost.

Transparent, Realistic Colour Journeys

At Piper Violet Hair, I’m honest and upfront about what’s achievable, how long it will take, and what it will cost. Hair health always comes first. Together, we create a realistic plan that works with your budget and timeframe, ensuring your hair not only looks amazing but stays in optimum condition.

Why Clients Travel From Across the UK (and Beyond)

In my Charles Worthington days, I was surrounded by some of the UK’s most renowned colourists, but now, I’m fully booked 6–8 months in advance at our award-winning Twickenham salon. Clients travel from across London, Surrey, and even from countries like Sweden and Ukraine for my professional hair colour services.

Over 15 years on from earning my L’Oréal Colour Specialist degree, I still draw on the same depth of technical knowledge every single day. But what

I’ve learnt is that the investment in that education never stops paying off.

Fast-forward to 2025, and I had the incredible honour of qualifying for the L’Oréal Colour Trophy Finals. For our competition entry, I created a bespoke “peekaboo” colour technique ,  a playful placement that reveals itself with movement, using rich mocha tones to bring depth and shine. This was paired with a big, 90s inspired blowout infused with soft boho elements, giving our look a modern, free spirited twist.

It just goes to show that the specialist knowledge I gained all those years ago is still not only relevant, but evolving. The principles I learnt back then, understanding colour theory on a scientific level, balancing tones, and adapting techniques to suit each individual , remain the foundation of my work. But each year, with new trends, new technologies, and constant inspiration, I build on that knowledge.

I’m proud that our finalist look didn’t just reflect current fashion, but also captured Piper Violet’s unique vibe, a blend of precision, creativity, and effortless style. Always learning, always creating, and always pushing forward… that’s the true legacy of being a L’Oréal Colour Specialist.

Growing the Next Generation of Colour Specialists

Soon, my talented team at Piper Violet will be ready to take the L’Oréal Colour Specialist degree themselves. It’s not a qualification you can dive straight into , you need to complete a series of advanced colour courses first – but I’m excited to see even more specialists working under our roof.

If you’re looking for a L’Oréal Colour Specialist in Twickenham for everything from balayage to full colour correction, Piper Violet Hair is here to help. My training means I approach every colour challenge with the perfect blend of science, artistry, and precision, so you can leave with hair you truly love.

Click here to book with our Colour Specialists.