with Chloe Zara from CZE Hair

If anyone knows a thing or two about hair, it’s Chloe Zara. Founder of CZE Hair, she’s an expert in the kind of good hair days that don’t require a full production. With over 20 years of experience behind the chair, Chloe hasn’t just mastered the art of good hair; she’s bottled it. Now, she’s letting us in on the secret. Trust us, your hair’s going to want to hear this.

Chloe, we’re so excited to welcome you to the Max artisans family. For those who might not know you (yet), can you tell us a little about yourself and the journey that’s brought you here?

Thank you so much – I’m thrilled to be part of the Max artisans family. I’m Chloe Zara, founder of CZE Hair and a hairstylist with over 20 years of hands-on experience. I launched CZE to create the products I always wished I had in the salon—clean, effective, and easy-to-use essentials that truly support hair and scalp health. As a mum of two, I know how busy life gets, and I wanted to make haircare feel simple, beautiful, and empowering for every day.

You’ve worked your hair magic on the daily as a hairdresser for many years. How did that hands-on experience shape what ended up in your products today?

That time behind the chair gave me a deep understanding of what people really want from their haircare. I saw first-hand how much the scalp impacts overall hair health, and how many products were either too complicated or didn’t actually deliver. Every formula in the CZE range is grounded in what I know works—nourishing, multi-purpose ingredients that make hair look and feel better, naturally.

Launching your own brand while raising a little one is no small feat. What’s helped you stay grounded while growing both a business and a family?

It’s definitely been a juggle! But grounding myself in why I started—wanting to create something meaningful and lasting for my family—has kept me going. I’m also lucky to have a great support system. And sometimes it’s just the little rituals: a moment to myself, a walk, or simply doing my hair and feeling like “me” again.

Becoming a mum can redefine everything, including how we express ourselves through fashion. Has motherhood influenced your style?

Absolutely. Motherhood has made me gravitate toward elevated simplicity—pieces that are effortless, comfortable, and still make me feel polished. It’s the same philosophy I have for haircare—less fuss, more impact.

You know the stars have aligned when it’s a good hair day and a good outfit day. What’s your everyday haircare routine and product ritual that help you feel (and look) your best?

My routine starts with the CZE Silk Wash and Silk Conditioner—they leave my hair feeling soft, healthy, and manageable. I then use the Glossifying Hair Mist to protect and hydrate, followed by the Hair Crème to add body and smoothness. I always finish with a touch of the Nourishing Perfume Oil for shine and scent—it’s my non-negotiable.

Between stress, hormones, and motherhood, there are so many factors that can affect hair health. As both a hairdresser and a mum, what are some of the key things you’ve learned along the way?

Hair health really does start at the scalp. Hormones, stress, and diet all play a role, but using the right products can make a huge difference. Postpartum taught me how fragile hair can become, and it’s why I formulated the Refine Range—to support fine or thinning hair. Consistency, nourishment, and patience are key.

Bad hair days, we all have them. On the days when things feel a little less polished, what are some things that bring you back to feeling your best?

A sleek bun and a few drops of our Hair Crème can work wonders. And I always reach for the Nourishing Perfume Oil—there’s something about the scent that instantly lifts my mood. That, and a good coffee!

We’re a little nosy when it comes to beauty shelves. What’s in your current beauty product lineup?

Aside from my CZE staples, I’m loving Emma Lewisham’s Supernatural Face Crème, Maryse Bio-Retinol Serum, and Sans [ceuticals] Barrier Restore Body + Hand Butter. I like to keep it clean, purposeful, and minimal.

Seasons change, and so does our hair. What’s your winter go-to haircare routine?

In winter, I double down on hydration. I add the Nourishing Perfume Oil into my conditioner or mask, and I always use the Glossifying Hair Mist before styling to combat dryness. I also love incorporating the Silk Treatment Balm weekly for a deeper nourishment boost.

How often should we really be washing our hair?

There’s no one-size-fits-all, but generally 2–3 times a week works well for most. If you’re using clean, scalp-friendly products, you don’t need to over-wash—and your hair actually gets healthier over time.

In your opinion, what’s the “little black dress” of haircare?

Our Nourishing Perfume Oil—hands down. It adds instant shine, tames frizz, protects, smells incredible, and makes you feel instantly more put-together. It does it all.