Working It: How I Manage My Hair with My Hectic Fitness Schedule

Hi Theresa! Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m the Senior Beauty Editor at global trend forecaster WGSN. I’ve worked in the beauty industry for 12 years now and it’s still my dream job! But fitness is also something I’m really passionate about, so at the start of 2017 I decided to do a fitness instructor course, along with some additional courses in kettlebells and indoor group cycling. I now teach studio-based classes in the evening alongside my full-time job.

What’s the most exciting part about working in trend forecasting?

My job is always really varied, from attending trade shows in Tokyo or New York to interviewing industry experts about new trends and products. I’m really excited about the new innovations in the beauty industry and how beauty, active and wellness (all my fave things!) are becoming more connected.

I’m fascinated about ingredients and the science behind skincare and how products are formulated – I’m always reading the labels on bottles. I also love discovering new brands and talking to the founders as they are always so passionate, it’s so inspiring.

Which new hair trends that you’ve seen are you most excited about?

I’m loving the solid shampoo bars and soaps at the moment – they’re great as they leave zero waste. I’ve definitely become more mindful about the products I buy and look for beauty products that are not only better for me but also kinder to the planet.

I also went to Seoul recently and brought back a few hair sheet masks, which are really good for hydrating my hair.

How do you plan your hair washing days around your busy fitness schedule?

I train and also teach, so I’m constantly washing my hair. I try to refresh my hair in-between with dry shampoo, but I do wash it every other day.

What are your best sweaty hair hacks?

I love a French braid – if I’m running to work then I’ll braid my hair and when I get to the office I’ll give it a quick 30-second rough dry with a hairdryer and then take it out to add soft waves. Sometimes, I’ll spray some dry shampoo on the roots to add some volume as my hair can be quite flat. You can also never go wrong with a classic bun, especially on days when you don’t have time to wash your hair.

Do you see the beauty and fitness industries as two separate areas or are they interlinked?

Beauty and fitness are becoming more and more intertwined. This is all linked to the wellness movement as people embrace a 360-degree approach to health and well-being – we now taking better care of our skin and body with exercise and beauty products. I’m also seeing more athleisure-beauty products on the market now than ever before. Beauty, fitness and health are all connected in one way or another and this is only going to grow in the future.

With such a busy schedule how do you fit in time for self-care?

Self-care is really important to me and I try to dedicate time on a Sunday evening to relax by running a hot bath with some muscle soak and do a face and hair mask. This helps me unwind and prepares me for the busy week ahead. I also practice yoga so I tend to use this time to stretch out my muscles and prevent injuries. I also try to use the sauna at least once a week, with a hot/cold shower after the gym.

Top Gym Bag Hair Essentials

Make the transition from the gym to beyond a breeze with these ATH editor-approved gym hair must-haves.

VO5 Post Gym Refresh Spray

Heading straight to work after your workout? Spray your strands with the new VO5 Post Gym Refresh Spray to soak up any excess oils and give limp roots a volume boost.

TRESemmé Colour Shineplex Serum

If the fear of post-workout frizz is coming between you and your fitness goals, we recommend adding a serum into your gym hair routine. Apply 1-2 pumps of the TRESemmé Colour Shineplex Serum into your palm to instantly slick down any unruly flyaways for a super sleek look.

VO5 Hair Perfume

Wish there was a way to keep your hair smelling freshly-washed between washes? The handbag-sized VO5 Hair Perfumes are perfect for giving your mane a dose of fragrance and come in 3 covetable scents to try; Tropical Paradise, Vanilla Twist and Rose Remix.