In this illuminating episode of The Detangled Podcast, hosts Jacqui McIntosh and Louis Driver are joined by industry educator and author Sandra Gittens. With a legacy spanning over three decades, Sandra shares invaluable insights into the evolution of textured hair education, highlighting the historical gaps in Afro hair training and the progress made in raising industry standards. From her experience writing the UK's first dedicated Afro hair curriculum to pushing for inclusive qualifications, Sandra offers a powerful perspective on where the industry has been—and where it needs to go.

Key Topics Covered

• The absence of Afro and textured hair in historical training manuals and qualification standards
• Sandra’s journey in developing the first NVQ units for Afro hair in the UK
• How miseducation impacts client experiences and stylist confidence
• Why inclusive education must be central to all hair training programmes
• A discussion on the cultural significance of Afro hair and why representation matters
• What still needs to change in product development, education, and professional attitudes

Hero Products & Pro Tips

• Sandra emphasises the importance of understanding hair texture and porosity over simply focusing on curl patterns
• Advice for educators: “Embed textured hair into every unit—don't bolt it on.”
• For stylists: Ongoing education is key. “Never stop learning, because textured hair is always evolving.”

Stay Connected:

If you enjoyed this episode, follow, subscribe, and leave us a review. Join the conversation with us on social media:

Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon

Hosts: Jacqui McIntosh – @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver – @louisdoeshair

Guest: Sandra Gittes – @hannahmarciaa

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios @londonpodcaststudios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

Website: www.avloneurope.co.uk

In this episode of The Detangled Podcast by Avlon, hosts Louis Driver and Jacqui McIntosh are joined by Aycan Kemal, owner of New York Hair Design, and returning guest Lathaniel Chambers for a rich and inspiring conversation on protective styling, braiding techniques, and natural haircare culture. Aycan shares her phenomenal 25-year journey in the textured hair industry, including her Guinness World Record for the fastest braiding, and her passion for competition styling. Together with Lathaniel, they unpack what makes a style truly protective, how to maintain scalp health, and why natural hair trends are evolving for the better. From award-winning artistry to salon best practices, this episode is packed with insights for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Key Topics Covered

• Defining Protective Styling: Tension, technique, and how to avoid long-term damage.
• Braiding Techniques & Style Trends: Including boho braids, knotless styles, and Fulani-inspired patterns.
• Aycan’s Career & Accolades: From opening her salon in 2000 to entering the Hall of Fame and setting a Guinness World Record.
• Product Knowledge & Texture Focus: Tailoring treatments to Type 3 & Type 4 curls, plus insider product tips.
• Scalp Health & Maintenance: How to manage braids between salon visits without compromising style longevity.
• Salon Culture & the Natural Hair Movement: Embracing authenticity, inclusivity, and the evolving expectations of textured hair clients.

Stay Connected:

If you enjoyed this episode, follow, subscribe, and leave us a review. Join the conversation with us on social media:

Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon

Hosts: Jacqui McIntosh – @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver – @louisdoeshair

Guests: Aycan Kemal: @nyhairdesign Lathaniel Chambers: @thehairmechanicldn

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios @londonpodcaststudios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

Website: www.avloneurope.co.uk

In this informative solo episode of The Detangled Podcast, co-host Jacqui McIntosh is joined by Avlon educator Hannah Marcia for a deep dive into the foundations of curly and coily haircare. Whether you're just beginning your natural hair journey or refining your routine, this episode is packed with practical advice, product recommendations, and professional insight into caring for textured hair.

Together, Jacqui and Hannah explore the science behind curls and coils, the importance of recognising hair's individual needs, and how to select the right products based on porosity, density, and lifestyle. They also unpack the role of curl typing, how to apply product effectively, and how social media has shaped (and sometimes confused) the conversation around natural hair.

Expect real talk, expert guidance, and empowering advice to help listeners feel more confident about their hair and routines.

Key Topics Covered

• Understanding the structure of curly and coily hair
• Why porosity, not just curl type, matters
• The pros and pitfalls of curl typing
• How to build an effective haircare routine
• Clarifying the role of leave-ins, mousses, gels, and more
• Insights into co-washing and scalp health
• Social media’s influence on curl care
• Embracing volume vs. definition
• Transparent, honest hair consultations

Stay Connected:

If you enjoyed this episode, follow, subscribe, and leave us a review. Join the conversation with us on social media:

Avlon Europe: @avlonuk Avlon: @avlon

Hosts: Jacqui McIntosh – @jacqui.mcintosh Louis Driver – @louisdoeshair

Guest: Hannah Marcia – @hannahmarciaa

Production Credits

Producers: Louis Driver & Jacqui McIntosh

Recorded at: London Podcast Studios @londonpodcaststudios

Cover Artwork Illustration: Habiba Nabisubi @bibanabi

Cover Design: Louis Driver

Website: www.avloneurope.co.uk