Case study: Jacqui McIntosh
“Because products for textured hair require greater knowledge and understanding, it’s really important that professionals in this field have a sound grasp of hair science and exactly how the products work.”
Jacqui is a well-known and well-respected figure in the hair skills and product development world. She started her career as a hairdresser, and over the years has become an expert practitioner, educator and assessor. She is especially known in trichology training for textured hair, covering a wide variety of hair types. Today she works for one of the world’s leading developers and producers of products specially designed for textured hair. Her influence in trichology training for textured hair is unmatched.
Jacqui decided to study the Level 4 Course to build on her already considerable knowledge of the science of hair: “I’ve worked with hair scientists for many years,” she says. “I’ve always had an interest in learning more about the trichology field, especially for those looking at trichology training for textured hair. Taking the Level 4 Course was a great opportunity to build on my knowledge.”
Jacqui’s special interest is in African hair types: “Because products for textured hair require greater knowledge and understanding, it’s really important that professionals in this field have a sound grasp of hair science. They need to understand exactly how the products work. Trichology training for textured hair is crucial for this understanding.”
Did you feel supported whilst you embarked on your Trichology training?
Jacqui already has many qualifications, including a Masters degree. However, even she found that going back to being a student required patience and self-discipline. “I had to get into the right mind-set to put in the work and study efficiently,” she remembers. “What really helped was the great support I had from the Course tutors.”
And she has special praise for TrichoCare’s course Director Keith Barker-Jones:
”Keith was fantastically patient and understanding. When I got stuck or was struggling to understand something, he took the time to talk me through it and carefully unravel the problem. He really made you want to progress and succeed.”
Jacqui believes that trichology has an important part to play in enhancing client care. It also helps in raising the status of the hair and beauty professions. “I met Brain Plunkett [TrichoCare Education’s founder] some years ago and was very struck by his passion for the profession. As the personal care sector continues to grow, and as treatments become more complex, we all need to understand more about the science of the hair and skin. This benefits both our clients as well as ourselves.”
Jacqui has no doubts that studying the Level 4 Course was well worthwhile: “I have no regrets! It’s really strengthened my understanding of how the hair and scalp work, and why things can go wrong. Even if you don’t want to practice formally as a trichologist, the knowledge you gain in trichology training for textured hair will strengthen your confidence in giving great advice to your clients.”
