In the second instalment of our ‘Day in the Life’ series, we caught up with Ellie Coldham, Consultant Trichologist at the Philip Kingsley Clinic in London. We found out her favourite thing about Trichology, the secret behind her healthy blonde locks – and her morning routine, which we’re hoping will rub off on us!
What inspired you to become a Trichologist?
I came to Philip Kingsley to do work experience straight out of school. I have to admit, I’d never heard of a Trichologist before then – and I think I can say that for a lot of people! It’s great to hear more people are becoming aware of what Trichology is.
I quickly graduated to working as a Trichotherapist in the Clinic, conducting our signature Treatments. I found this very interesting, and Glenn Lyons, our clinical director, encouraged me to study to become a Trichologist. Well, I’d thought my school years were over… but it turned out they weren’t!
What is your favourite thing about being a Trichologist?
I love helping people feel more confident about their hair. If your hair feels good, then you feel good – and what’s better than helping someone else feel good? It’s great to be able to work with such a fantastic team of Trichologists (probably the best in the world), and I am still learning every day.
What is your morning routine?
I’m always up at 6am and out the door by 6:30. I’m very much a morning person (I know you probably don’t hear that often!) and I like to be at work at least an hour before I start. Beating the morning rush hour makes me feel more relaxed and gives me a clear mind before I start my day.
I take my nutritional supplements as soon as I get into work so I don’t forget. At least once a week, I go into the Treatment room, pop on some Elasticizer, and steam my hair for 10 minutes. It’s like a quick pamper!
What do you eat for breakfast?
A couple of boiled eggs with some spinach and a coffee. I was told when I started working at Philip Kingsley how important a protein-packed breakfast is, and this is something I now swear by and tell all my clients. At the weekend, I may indulge in a fry up – but that’s not so bad, since I get my protein and carbohydrates from there, too.
How do you do your hair for work and how long does it take?
I wash my hair daily because, being fine, it tends to get oily quickly. I leave the house with it wet, and when I arrive at the Clinic, I run up to the Treatment room (a bonus!) to make it look presentable. This doesn’t take long with a paddle brush and a 2-minute blast with the hairdryer.
I normally tie my hair into a neat, low bun (not too tightly, since pulling on your hair isn’t good for it) and use crocodile clips to keep it in place.
How does your typical day at the Clinic go?
I have new Consultations and follow-up appointments spread throughout the day, and I do my admin in-between. When I get free time, I like to further my learning by reading and discussing hair and scalp topics with colleagues.
What do you do to unwind?
I jump into my loungewear as soon as I get home, before binge-watching my latest Netflix series – with a cuppa, of course.
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