Leeds is renowned across the country for its numerous companies and factories. Today, we focus on a famous hair care brand, Good Hair Day (GHD). This company produces hair straighteners used by over 50,000 salons worldwide and has even been a sponsor of hair tools for the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. Let’s explore the story behind this beauty brand. Next on leedska.com.
The History of the Brand
The history of Good Hair Day began in 2001 when Martin Penny, Gary Douglas, Susan Powls, and Robert Powls founded the company, commonly known as GHD. The trio from Leeds acquired the rights to a hair straightener from a South Korean inventor. Initially, GHD operated through word-of-mouth and gained customers organically. However, the brand launched its first advertising campaign two years later.
By 2004, the brand expanded to the North American market, significantly contributing to its growth and earning £37 million in revenue that year. Two years later, The Jemella Group, the brand’s owner, was sold, marking the beginning of frequent ownership changes. In 2013, Lion Capital acquired GHD for £300 million.
Brand Development
By 2013, Good Hair Day had grown exponentially, with sales exceeding £150 million annually. The brand sold over two million hair straighteners in thousands of salons globally. In 2016, GHD changed ownership again when Coty Inc. purchased the company for £420 million.
GHD consistently innovated its product range. Notable products include the V Gold Series Styler, Air Professional Hair Dryer, Eclipse Hair Straightener, Aura Hair Dryer, the curling line ghd Curve, and the Platinum Styler. Recent advancements include the Platinum Plus Styler.
The brand also executed creative advertising campaigns featuring iconic characters like Rapunzel, Red Riding Hood, and Cinderella. In 2011, the brand launched the Scarlet Collection with Katy Perry and later collaborated with Victoria’s Secret, becoming a long-time sponsor of its annual fashion shows.
Charitable Initiatives
In addition to business success, Good Hair Day is committed to philanthropy. In 2004, the company raised over £2.5 million for the charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer. Every year, the brand produces limited-edition pink hair straighteners, donating £10 from each sale to charity. GHD also supports shelters assisting women facing domestic violence.
How to Straighten Hair Safely with GHD Styling Tools
GHD is known for its high-quality hair straighteners, but proper usage is crucial to avoid damaging your hair. Follow these steps for safe and effective styling:
- Wash Your Hair: Clean hair is essential before using straightening tools. Use shampoo and conditioner with smoothing and hydrating properties for the best results.
- Dry Excess Moisture: Use a towel to gently remove excess water without rubbing or damaging the hair structure.
- Apply Heat Protection: Always use a heat-protectant spray or serum before blow-drying or straightening. If unavailable, lightweight oils like argan or coconut oil can work as substitutes.
- Blow-Dry Hair: Dry your hair with a blow dryer on a low heat setting to minimise frizz and prepare it for straightening.
- Set the Right Temperature: For thick and coarse hair, use 170-200 °C; for coloured hair, 130-160 °C; for fragile hair, 120-150 °C. For medium-thickness hair, 150-180 °C is ideal.
- Section Your Hair: Divide your hair into sections for better straightening results. Use lower temperatures for fringes or thin sections.
Good Hair Day has made an incredible impact in the haircare industry, combining innovation, style, and social responsibility. With high-quality products and global recognition, GHD continues to set the standard in beauty tools.