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Katy Young Mei's Role Model
MEI’S ROLE MODEL:
Katy Yung
Occupation: Editorial hairstylist at Bumble and bumble Salon, New York City
Family Background: Chinese American
Would you share some of your personal and professional successes with our readers?
Being a hairstylist in New York City has always been a dream of mine. It took a lot of hard work, determination and faith to make my dreams come true.
What was it like growing up in China/as a Chinese American?
Sometimes it was difficult to fit in with my other friends who were blond and blue eyed but now I know that it is our uniqueness that makes us all special.
Who were your role models as a young girl?
My role model was my mother.
How did you feel as an Asian American when you were the age of our readers?
I knew my differences made me unique.
What advice would you like to share with our readers?
Embrace yourself and your culture.
KATY TELLS ALL
WE ASK ABOUT ASIAN HAIR
Are there differences between Asian hair and Caucasian hair?
There are many different textured hair, but most Asian hair is pretty course so it’s difficult to make it bend or do what you want it to do. It doesn’t hold that many styles too well. Most Caucasian hair is a bit more flexible and it’s easier to shape and form. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen Asian people with natural curly hair and it’s great for styling … it’s almost similar to the texture of Caucasian hair.
Most people think that all Asian people have black, thick, straight hair. Is this true?
No. some of my Asian clients have thin hair, some thick, some straight, some wavy/curly. Although it’s a general assumption that Asian people have black, thick, straight hair, not everyone does. Some Caucasian people have straight, thick hair that is difficult to style also. I’ve found that each person that sits in my chair is very different. Even within the Asian community, there are different types of Asian hair.
How can you determine the right hair cut for your hair type?
Based on your lifestyle, your personal style, your face shape, and how much time you are willing to spend on your hair, and the texture of your hair.
What are some good styles to try for sports and school?
High ponytail with a headband, a loose braid, a side ponytail, a loose bun for sporting activities. For everyday school, you can flat iron the hair or curl it.
Is it possible to curl Asian hair?
Yes and it depends on the texture. If there is a slight wave to the hair already, it’s easier to hold and it will last a little longer than someone with straight hair. Products and the cut also make a difference.
Is it possible to lighten or dye Asian hair a different color?
Yes, but be careful it doesn’t get orange.s been a dream of mine. It took a lot of hard work, determination and faith to make my dreams come true.
What was it like growing up in China/as a Chinese American?
Sometimes it was difficult to fit in with my other friends who were blond and blue eyed but now I know that it is our uniqueness that makes us all special.
Who were your role models as a young girl?
My role model was my mother.
How did you feel as an Asian American when you were the age of our readers?
I knew my differences made me unique.
What advice would you like to share with our readers?
Embrace yourself and your culture.
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