Q&A: Schwarzkopf Professional Global Color Ambassador Lesley Jennison on sustainable haircare

Schwarzkopf Professional Global Color Ambassador Lesley Jennison sits down with us to talk all about Schwarzkopf Professional’s new IGORA Zero Amm.

As the beauty industry continues to evolve towards more sustainable and eco-friendly practices, Schwarzkopf Professional is leading the charge with its latest innovation, IGORA Zero Amm. The vegan, ammonia-free hair color promises to deliver vibrant, true-to-tone results while prioritizing the health of both hair and the planet. 

We had the privilege of speaking with Schwarzkopf’s Global Color Ambassador Lesley Jennison ahead of the Schwarzkopf Hair Show in Kuala Lumpur. With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Lesley has become a highly respected figure in professional haircare. 

Her extensive knowledge and passion for sustainable beauty make her the perfect advocate for IGORA Zero Amm. In this interview, she shares her insights on the unique features and benefits of this groundbreaking product and its role in the future of sustainable beauty and hair care.

Here’s what she had to say:

How does IGORA Zero Amm contribute to the future of sustainable beauty and hair care?

I truly believe that we are all there for the same goal – and that’s providing a product that is less harmful to the planet that contains less nasties in it for our hair. But sustainability for me, we’ve got to look after this little planet of ours.I don’t think it’s just hair care. If you look at beauty or car manufacturing, you look at everything. We’re all on the same path. 

I’ve been affiliated with Schwarzkopf for about 18 years. Sustainability is now a key focus for me, and IGORA Zero Ammonia aligns perfectly with this. Different regions vary in their sustainability practices, but here, we’re very good at it. My philosophy emphasises the integrity, condition, and suitability of hair, and Schwarzkopf provides hairdressers with the necessary tools, innovation, and education to maintain these standards.

When I first engaged for the IGORA Zero Amm, I was involved from the start, which is a fantastic position to be in. The IGORA Zero Amm features new phyto lipid technology, which enhances its benefits. Schwarzkopf genuinely listens to hairdressers, incorporating their feedback from global events held in different regions to reduce unnecessary travel. This collaborative approach ensures the product meets the real needs of hairdressers. It’s been tested extensively by professionals from the beginning, ensuring its effectiveness and relevance.

Could you walk us through the unique features of the IGORA Zero Ammonia formula and its benefits for both salon professionals and clients?

Absolutely. So, we have 40 colors. The great thing about the Igora Zero Amm is that it ranges from very soft, comforting honeys and brick and clay reds, to stronger tones. The entire palette looks natural and any color can work with everything else, which is unusual. For example, our reds are strong but not overly bright, suiting most skin tones. Contrary to the belief that certain colors don’t suit specific skin tones, our range proves otherwise with a red or blonde for every skin tone.

The IGORA Zero Ammonia formula works mainly through phytolipid technology, using micronized oils from apricot kernel and grapeseed. These oils carry and push the color pigments deep into the hair cortex, ensuring even color distribution. Omega 9 seals the color, closes the cuticle, and maintains moisture balance, which helps with the longevity of the tone. This is the core of what makes IGORA Zero Ammonia special.

How does the absence of ammonia in IGORA Zero Amm enhance the overall hair colouring experience, particularly in terms of odour and scalp comfort?

I still work a couple of days a month in the salon in London, so I’m very aware of salon environments and client needs. It’s essential for hairdressers to educate clients about the advancements in technology, especially with pre-lightening or bleaching. For example, Bond Enforcing technology, introduced 10 years ago, has reduced breakage by up to 96%, which is remarkable.

IGORA Zero Ammonia leverages ingredients like apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, and omega-9s to achieve vibrant, true-to-tone results without harsh chemicals. It offers up to three levels of lift, providing high performance without ammonia. The product is gentle on the scalp, making it suitable even for clients with sensitive skin.

What advice would you give to salon professionals looking to incorporate sustainable and vegan-friendly products like IGORA Zero Ammonia into their services?

I still work a couple of days a month in the salon in London, so I’m very aware of salon environments and client needs. It’s essential for hairdressers to educate clients about the advancements in technology, especially with pre-lightening or bleaching. For example, bond enforcing technology, introduced 10 years ago, has reduced breakage by up to 96%, which is remarkable.

IGORA Zero Ammonia leverages ingredients like apricot kernel oil, grapeseed oil, and omega-9s to achieve vibrant, true-to-tone results without harsh chemicals. It offers up to three levels of lift, providing high performance without ammonia. The product is gentle on the scalp, making it suitable even for clients with sensitive skin.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Lifestyle Asia KL [EN] (@lifestyleasiakl)