Crossword Genius

Head is red so occasionally needs such attention (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

hairdo

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'such attention' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are singular nouns, I don't understand how they can define each other.

'head is red so occasionally' is the wordplay.
'occasionally' indicates alternate letters (letters taken at regular intervals or occasions).
'head'+'is'+'red'+'so'='headisredso'
The alternate letters of 'headisredso' are 'HAIRDO'.

'needs' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for hairdo that I've seen before include "capital arrangement" , "Style for one's crowning glory" , "Barnet" , "Styling of the locks" , "Cut and set" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish Times.
Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app