World of L'Oréal Professional Products Podcast | Episode 4 With Astin McKenna | Free

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Here, you’ll find our latest podcast episodes, brand spotlights, special guest features and behind-the-scenes conversations with some of the industry’s most inspiring artists, educators, salon owners and creative leaders.

From business advice and colour education to product innovation, career stories and trend insights, each episode is designed to connect, inspire and support the professional hair community.

Explore the latest episodes below and discover what’s happening in the world of L’Oréal Professional Products.

Episode 4 with Astin McKenna

In this episode of the World of L’Oréal Professional Products Podcast, Kellie sits down with Astin McKenna, Salon & Retail Education Manager at Hairhouse.

With nearly 20 years in the professional hair industry and over 10 years with Hairhouse, Astin shares her passion for bridging the gap between what consumers learn about their hair at home and the expert advice they need from a professional. From product misinformation and haircare routines to gloss, damage, scalp health and hair fall, this episode explores why the right recommendation starts with understanding the root cause.

Astin also dives into the growing “skinification” of haircare, explaining how layered routines, professional consultations and evolving product choices can help consumers better care for their hair and scalp over time. She also touches on sustainability, ingredient awareness and why today’s clients are looking for both results and responsible choices.

Tune in for an educational and practical conversation packed with professional insight, consumer trends and expert advice on how to make haircare easier to understand, more personalised and more effective. 

Scrubbing Highlights:

00:23 – Meet Astin McKenna
Introduction to Astin, Salon & Retail Education Manager at Hairhouse, her industry experience and her passion for bridging the gap between consumers and professionals.

01:18 – More Than Shampoo and Conditioner
Astin explains why professional advice is so important when choosing the right products for each hair type and concern.

02:08 – The Gloss Conversation
Why gloss is connected to healthy-looking hair, and why shiny hair starts with understanding the hair’s needs first.

03:08 – Damage, Repair or Gloss?
How to identify whether hair needs repair, strength, hydration or shine, and why the root cause matters.

04:32 – The Skinification of Haircare
Astin breaks down how haircare is becoming more like skincare, with layered routines and personalised product choices.

06:00 – Why Pro Recommendations Matter
How professional advice helps consumers understand not only what products to use, but when and how to use them.

06:35 – Routines Need to Change
Why haircare is not a one-time recommendation, and how routines should evolve as hair and scalp needs change.

07:38 – Why Everyone Wants Gloss
Astin discusses the rise of glossy, expensive-looking hair and why shine has become such a major trend.

10:14 – Let’s Talk About Hair Loss
A conversation around hair fall, why it can feel uncomfortable to discuss, and the many factors that may contribute to it.

12:23 – Hair Fall vs Breakage
Astin explains how to tell the difference between hair that is falling from the root and hair that is snapping or breaking.

13:51 – Scalp Ingredients and Density
A look at key ingredients consumers are becoming more aware of, including niacinamide, aminexil and caffeine.

15:52 – Your Scalp Is Living Skin
Why the scalp needs the right care, just like the skin, and why routines should be reassessed over time.

16:48 – Results and Sustainability
Astin discusses how consumers are looking for products that deliver results while also considering sustainability, refills and responsible choices.

17:45 – Closing Thoughts
Kellie wraps up the conversation and reinforces the importance of seeking professional recommendations from Astin and the Hairhouse team.