Happy New Year! Here at the Salon Magazine, we hope you’ve had a wonderful festive period and are feeling recharged and raring to go as we enter 2025. We’re starting the year as we mean to go on with an issue filled to the brim with business advice, tips and a plethora of trends, gearing you up for a prosperous year ahead.
With January being the perfect time to plan and organise for the year ahead, we’re commencing the issue by discussing how to improve the client experience for women going through the menopause. Guided by industry experts, we discuss different ways to treat menopausal clients to enhance comfort and make them feel seen and cared for.
Going hand in hand with organising and planning for the year ahead, we’re kicking things off with the age-old headache of no-shows, as, with the help of industry experts, we explore the best practices and tools salon owners can adopt to reduce no-shows and maximise appointment schedules.
Alongside these exciting articles lie our much-loved regular features, including Salon of the Month, Rising Star, and 5 Minutes With Maddi Cook, as she shares how to take control of your finances and grow your income in 2025.
We’re starting the year as we mean to go on with another information-filled edition of Salon Magazine! We hope you enjoy the read and look forward to navigating this, 2025 journey, together.
Featuring as our first Rising Star for 2025 is Charlotte Fulcher as she discusses the importance of continually experimenting and shares her top social media tips!
13 CLIENT EXPERIENCE
Guided by industry experts, we discuss different ways to treat menopausal clients to enhance comfort and make them feel seen and cared for.
22
ASK THE EXPERTS: SKINCEUTICALS
With Dr. Wassim Taktouk, Aesthetic Doctor and SkinCeuticals Expert, we delve into glass skin and how to achieve this look for clients.
29 BUSINESS
Addressing the age-old headache of no-shows with the help of industry experts, we explore the best practices and technologies salon owners can adopt to maximise appointment schedules.
30 ESSENTIAL 5
Going into the New Year, we share 5 ways to be charitable in 2025 with the children’s hair loss charity, Little Lady Locks.
32
5 MINUTES WITH…
Innovator, educator, and coach Maddi Cook shares how to take control of your finances and grow your income in 2025.
Revlon Professional® Announces Aitana Bonmatí as the New Global Ambassador for Its All-In-One Hair Treatment UniqOne™
Revlon Professional® is proud to introduce Aitana Bonmatí, the best female football player in the world, as the new global ambassador for its acclaimed UniqOne™ hair treatment. In this role, Bonmatí will not only be the face of the brand but will also share her vision, journey and commitment to inspiring women and girls worldwide.
Aitana becomes the first-ever global ambassador for the UniqOne™ brand, collaborating closely on the development of a limited-edition product set to launch in January 2025. This partnership is rooted in the shared values of Revlon Professional, UniqOne™ and Aitana: to inspire and empower women and girls globally to discover who they are, identify their strengths and use them to achieve success through effort and dedication. “What excites me most about this role is representing a product that, much like in sports, always strives for excellence,” said Bonmatí.
In the words of Revlon International President, Charles Waters: “Aitana embodies the dedication and authenticity that lie at the heart of our brand. Her relentless spirit and talent, both on and off the field, inspire women and girls around the world. These values, which also define UniqOne™, shine through in her vision, commitment and journey, demonstrating that greatness is achieved by staying true to yourself and working with passion. These are qualities we are proud to share and amplify through this collaboration.”
Jamie Benny joins ALFAPARF Milano Professional as Guest Artist
ALFAPARF Milano Professional is thrilled to welcome Jamie Benny, a multi-award-winning hairdresser and owner of Benny & Co Hair Studios, as its newest Guest Artist.
Before opening his salon in Knutsford, Cheshire, in November 2024, Jamie dedicated 18 years to honing his craft in London, where he worked as an art director for some of the industry’s most renowned salons and brands.
“We’re incredibly excited to have Jamie join the ALFAPARF Milano Professional family as a Guest Artist,” says Stacy Humphreys, Head of Education at ALFAPARF Milano Professional. “His exceptional work, passion, and dedication to the hairdressing industry have always inspired us. We’re confident his Concept to Creation course will provide an unparalleled learning experience for those looking to elevate their creative skills.”
In 2025, Jamie will bring his Concept to Creation course to the ALFAPARF Milano Professional Academies in London and Dublin. Drawing from his extensive background as an Art Director, this course is designed to guide participants through the process of unlocking and refining their creativity.
“This one-day course takes hairdressers on an inspiring journey to create a look that reflects their unique brand and style,” Jamie explains. “We’ll explore various techniques to encourage creative expression, culminating in the creation of a final look that will be photographed. It’s a fun, immersive day that covers everything from brainstorming concepts to achieving a polished, photo-ready result.”
“I can’t wait to get started with ALFAPARF Milano Professional,” says Jamie. “I chose to collaborate with ALFAPARF Milano Professional as I believe my brand Benny & Co aligns with the core values of the business as we believe in Education, Suitability, Individuality and Community. I really do also believe that it the industry’s best kept secret - the products really are amazing and clients have never been happier with their colour.”
Course dates:
Monday 10 February 2025: Dublin Tuesday 4 April 2025: London
Pantone Colour of the Year Revealed: Mocha Mousse
For 2025, the Pantone Colour Institute has selected PANTONE 17-1230, better known as Mocha Mousse as the Pantone Colour of The Year. In their announcement the Pantone Colour Institute described Mocha Mousse as: “A warming, brown hue imbued with richness. It nurtures us with its suggestion of the delectable qualities of chocolate and coffee, answering our desire for comfort.”
A warming rich brown hue, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse nurtures with its suggestion of the quality of cacao, chocolate and coffee, appealing to our desire for comfort. “Underpinned by our desire for everyday pleasures, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse expresses a level of thoughtful indulgence” says Leatrice Eisman, Executive Director Pantone Colour Institute. “Sophisticated and lush, yet at the same time an unpretentious classic, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse extends our perceptions of the browns from being humble and grounded to embrace aspirational and luxe. Infused with subtle elegance and earthy refinement, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse presents a discrete and tasteful touch of glamour. A flavourful brown shade, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse envelopes us with its sensorial warmth.”
Could you be on the next L’Oreal Professionnel ID Artist team?
Are you at a point in your hairdressing career where you are ready to embrace new opportunities, experience the ultimate in education and gain exposure for your extraordinary talent? If yes, the L’Oréal Professionnel ID Artists programme could be for you!
The L’Oreal Professionnel ID Artist programme has helped launch and evolve the careers of some of hairdressing’s brightest stars – including past alumni Marlon Hawkins, Nancy Stripe and Abigail Butler. ID Artist is a two-year mentorship and development programme that aims to foster hairdressing talent, no matter what stage you have reached in your career.
Running from March 2025 until December 2026, the programme will take successful applicants on a creative and inspirational journey, opening doors through new connections and experiences while developing skills to help members achieve their full potential.
If you think you have the talent and commitment to qualify for the 2025/26 programme, there’s no time to waste. Head over to lorealaccess.com for all the details.
Submissions close 16 January 2025.
Masterpieces in Miniature
Featuring as this month’s rising star is Charlotte Fulcher, also known as @charsflamingnailstudio, discussing the importance of continually experimenting and taking inspiration from strong women; also giving her top tips for increasing bookings through social media.
When did you notice your passion for nails?
My passion for nails started when I was 13; I collected nail glitter and painted all of my friends’ nails at any given chance. I started my career in the corporate world after leaving sixth form, but, after a few years, I realised I was unemployable and, instead, needed to run my own business. Considering my love for nails and making my friends feel beautiful, the most logical answer was to do nails. I love building connections with people and working from home, as I’m a stereotypical Cancer, and knew I’d thrive off being my own boss.
How did you find your style, and what are your tips for other nail specialists trying to stand out?
In this industry, we never stop evolving;
therefore, I think it’s impossible for me to say I’ve found my ‘style’, as it’s forever changing. Everyday, we’re moulding into our own niche without even knowing. With that being said, my motto, that I recently shared at The Nail Tech Org event, is, ‘The world tells you to fit in; the universe tells you to stand out.’
So, go and experiment with different art, clashing colours and paints; take inspiration from strong women who embody their true selves; it’s pretty
infectious! I take a lot of inspiration from Florence Given; she’s truly authentic and is so at peace with who she is. I think once you’ve mastered that, you will find your own style, rock it unapologetically, and then this will translate into your work.
What would you describe your speciality as, and how did this define your target audience?
My speciality lies in creating bold, unique
and expressive nail art that truly reflects each client’s personality and individuality. When I asked my clients and followers, they described my speciality as being able to create freehand nail art that stands out, with designs ranging from bright, psychedelic patterns to classy, ‘it girl’ vibes. Clients also highlighted my ability to help them express themselves, turning nails into a canvas for personal expression. My unapologetic authenticity and creative flair attract a target audience of confident, vibrant individuals who value originality and want their nails to tell a story – whether it’s playful, edgy, or simply one of a kind.
Social media marketing is key to increasing a beauty professional’s client base. How did you grow your following, and what content works best to increase bookings?
When I’m creating and planning content, I focus on authenticity, relatability and expertise, all alongside creating art. Here’s how I do this with the aim of increasing my following:
• I mix humour with advice on clientfocused posts that resonate with both clients and industry professionals. I find that sharable content helps to increase reach and, in turn, increases my following.
• I make my captions a space for me to connect and be relatable. The behindthe-scenes glimpse makes followers feel connected to me.
• I try to only post pictures of nails that
are consistent in terms of lighting, hand positioning, and visually satisfying to keep people looking for inspiration for premium services.
• I respond to everyone who shares my posts on their stories; I find taking the time to message people to thank them goes a long way.
Here’s how I create content to drive bookings:
• Before and after shots showcasing designs that demonstrate my skills and versatility.
• Sharing positive feedback from happy clients makes new clients want to book.
• Funny and educational posts resonate with my audience, while subtly promoting my services.
• Regularly post client testimonials, as this adds credibility and social proof.
As a qualified nail educator, please discuss the importance of continued education in the nail industry.
The nail industry is forever evolving with brand new products, nail art trends, and health and safety regulations. It’s what makes our jobs so exciting and non-stagnant. On one hand, this can be so fun and opportunity-filled, but on the other, it can feel overwhelming and make you feel the need to be the best at everything. With this in mind, as an educator, it is my responsibility to give nail technicians the tools to master the basics, refine their skills, and then learn to adapt to the best of their ability within their niche.
I want to encourage my fellow nail wizards to experiment with new designs and techniques to allow their passion to explode, whatever that may look like. Continued learning keeps us informed, skilled, and refreshed. So, instead of viewing it as a chore, flip the switch and acknowledge that education is growth, knowledge is power, and having it only reinforces trust for clients, which inevitably enables us to grow and elevate our careers.
What are your goals for the future, and how do you plan on achieving them?
2024 has truly been the year of positive change for me; in July I transformed my beauty room into a serotonin sanctuary that now resembles a packet of Starburst, and a big pinch-me moment was being asked to attend TheNailTechOrg’s (NTO) members event to speak on a panel about how I use social media authentically for my business. This opportunity led to Amy, the CEO of NTO, asking me to join the team as one of their educators and content creators. I accepted with open arms. I remember messaging Amy during lockdown in 2021, begging her to let me join the team; I could never have imagined that 3 years later she would give me this opportunity. To conclude, my goals for the future are to continue to grow my business within the training sector, become an integral team member of NTO, continue to service my clients, who I adore, and above all, allow women to feel sexy, empowered, and fierce as hell.
Salon of the Month Mosu Hair, Worcester
Delivering exceptional service is essential to the client experience, and this is made possible by a team that truly appreciates and respects our ethos.
Mosu, an eco-conscious, gender-neutral hair space co-founded by Jenna Husbands and Alicia Hammersley-Fenton, opened in spring 2024 in a converted railway arch in Worcester.
Striving to provide a premium, client-focused experience enhanced by a truly eco-conscious approach, every detail of the contemporary space has been thoughtfully curated to minimise carbon footprint, while delivering the highest level of care to clients.
When it comes to hiring stylists for the salon, finding stylists who genuinely align with Mosu’s values was incredibly important. Jenna and Alicia noted, “While it was tempting to fill all the chairs right away, we’ve chosen to let Mosu grow organically to ensure the client experience is never compromised. Our focus is on creating a collaborative and supportive co-working space, providing an environment where team members can thrive and achieve their aspirations. Delivering exceptional service is essential to the client experience, and this is made possible by a team that truly appreciates and respects our ethos.”
Whilst the right team is so important, clients of Mosu Hair also often comment on the unique salon interiors. With the arch’s structure featuring high, curved ceilings that create an airy, yet comforting, ambiance, this is often a noteworthy part of clients’ experiences.
Jenna and Alicia also receive a lot of positive feedback on their drinks selection; they shared, “We serve coffee sourced from our neighbours, Method Coffee Roasters, who roast their beans in-house, and clients love our bespoke cups, handthrown by talented local ceramicist, Rupert Brakespear.”
Post-appointment feedback often highlights how relaxed clients feel at Mosu. As a team, they’ve always believed that salon visits should be an opportunity to unwind and enjoy some personal time. For those seeking a more peaceful experience, Mosu also offers quiet appointments and a selection of design, travel and food books for moments of mindfulness. The chosen playlist also complements the salon’s atmosphere with a mix of electronic and mellow beats.
From the start, the vision for Mosu was to create a space that embodies the salon’s ethos, and offering a truly relaxing experience by incorporating earthy, neutral tones and materials throughout, contrasted with clean lines to give the space a modern, fresh feel. From using sustainable materials and energy-efficient appliances to sourcing organic, cruelty-free products, every detail of Mosu reflects the salon’s commitment
to a premium, sustainable environment.
As a new business, Jenna and Alicia felt it was essential to start off on the right foot, as they shared, “The hair industry is known for generating a lot of waste, and we didn’t want to add to that. We have meticulously considered every aspect of our business to find the most sustainable solutions without compromising our guests’ experience. From using organic products and a green energy provider to opting for sustainable bamboo toilet paper, we are committed to continually reducing our carbon footprint. We actively share the steps we’ve taken, hoping to inspire others to make mindful choices in their daily lives and contribute to a more sustainable future.”
Being a salon that prides itself on its eco-friendly ethos has also attracted many new clients who appreciate Mosu’s commitment to sustainability. Jenna and Alicia noted, “Clients have responded positively to our choice of products, feeling they’re better for the environment and their personal care.” Oway products are Mosu’s products of choice, which not only perform exceptionally well but also come in eco-conscious packaging, aligning perfectly with the salon’s values. The refill scheme has also been a great success, encouraging clients to recycle and adopt more sustainable habits.
As a new salon, building a client base is essential to success! Given the visual nature of the craft and the salon’s focus on design and sustainability, Mosu maintains an active presence on Instagram. Jenna and Alicia shared, “We make a conscious effort to keep our feed balanced, highlighting hair, interiors, and our commitment to sustainability. Many new clients have shared that they were drawn to our space because of our ethos.”
For Mosu, the biggest milestone so far has been launching and sharing the vision with the community. Jenna and Alicia discussed, “Taking on a disused railway arch came with many challenges. We had ambitious plans for the space, which involved removing the frontage, and securing the lease took two years due to the complexity of the design. Finding tradespeople experienced enough to manage these complexities was far more challenging than we had expected, and, as a result, we opened a year later than planned. Finally being able to share the space with clients was a huge milestone for us.”
Looking to the future, the next steps for Mosu are completing the new treatment space to offer a more holistic service for clients. Alongside this, Mosu aims to continue building the team in Worcester, with ambitious plans to also establish additional hair spaces in key locations across the UK.
The vision for Mosu was to create a space that embodies the salon’s ethos, and offering a truly relaxing experience by incorporating earthy, neutral tones and materials throughout.
Client Experience
A Cut Above
As part of our client experience feature, we hear from co-working salon Williams & Hirst as they discuss five easy to implement ways to enhance the client experience within your salon to keep clients coming back!
Step Into Your Clients’ Shoes
Revisit the entire client journey from start to finish by experiencing it as a customer. Small, cost-effective changes can make a big impact. Start by evaluating your salon’s curb appeal—does the exterior need a fresh coat of paint or updated imagery to promote your brand? Is the reception area clutter-free and inviting? Consider simple additions like cushions, plants, or reed diffusers to create a welcoming atmosphere. Sit in the chairs, lay at the backwash basin, and observe what clients see during their visit. Light touch-ups like decluttering, rearranging furniture, or replacing dated imagery can freshen the space and make regular clients feel like the salon is evolving.
Refine Client Interactions
Evaluate how your clients are greeted and engaged throughout their visit. A simple change in phrasing, such as “Hello, welcome to [Salon Name], how can I help you today?” rather than “Hello, who are you seeing today?” can set a more open and inviting tone. Encourage your team to introduce new services, suggest add-ons, or recommend retail products during appointments. Even small upsells can significantly boost revenue while enhancing the client’s overall experience.
Re-evaluate Your Retail Strategy
Take stock of your retail offerings. If items have been on the shelves for over six months without movement, it’s time for a change. Ensure your retail brands align with your salon’s values and price points. Research and test potential new products, leveraging complimentary samples from brand reps. Avoid locking into lengthy contracts or purchasing large quantities upfront; instead, grow your range slowly and gauge feedback from clients and your team. Offering multiple brands can cater to diverse client needs and maximize sales opportunities. Remember, even small impulse purchases at the salon can add up over time.
Elevate Refreshments
Refreshments are a key part of the salon experience. Consider upgrading from basic instant tea or coffee to something more memorable. Build the cost of premium beverages into your pricing and think about adding sweet treats to accompany them. Presentation matters—elevate your offering with stylish teapots, cups, and glassware. A refreshment menu can highlight these extras and turn a simple drink into a shareable moment on social media, enhancing your brand image.
Enhance Your Service Menu
Review your service menu with an eye toward adding value. Explore opportunities to introduce new services like extensions or smoothing treatments that appeal to your clients’ needs. Additional offerings not only enhance the client experience but also give them more reasons to return. Tailoring your services to include innovative or in-demand options can set your salon apart and keep clients engaged.
Creating Feel-Good Moments
Built on a dedication for ‘feel-good moments’, we hear from grace & stella and discover how their self-care philosophy transcends skincare, fostering meaningful relationships with clients and empowering them to feel truly great about themselves.
What vision inspired grace & stella and what sets the brand apart from other beauty and skincare brands available?
Let’s be real - the skincare world is crowded. Everyone’s promising better skin, and while that’s the goal, we stepped back and said, “Wait a minuteit’s about more than just looking good.” It’s about the moment. We wanted to create pro-level skincare that doesn’t take itself too seriously. grace & stella focuses on the fun extras - eye masks that are basically a spa day in a sachet and rose sprays that we regularly hear from our customers is “happiness in a bottle”. We’re not just creating products; we’re creating feel-good moments. And those little feel-good moments in life have a domino effect into the bigger feel-good moments.
The brand focuses heavily on “shareable self-care” and making self-care fun — why was this ethos important?
Modern skincare isn’t just about slapping on a cream and calling it a day. It’s an experience. We believe self-care should be fun, shareable, and make you truly feel good - on the inside just as much as the outside. Our philosophy? “Self-care is better when shared” - because why do something solo when you can make it a moment?
Please highlight some of grace & stella’s hero products.
Our Under Eye Masks are the stars of the show. They have 27% of the Amazon
market share and a celeb squad that includes Jessica Alba, Ayra Starr, India Amarteifio, and so many more. Fifteen minutes with them on your clients face and you’re seeing de-puffed, brighter, awakened under eyes. Pro tip: store them in the fridge for that extra “ahhh” factor. We’re made up of more than eye masks, though - our iconic Hyaluronic Acid Serum has over 40,000 five-star reviews, and our recent launch, our Pimple Patches are already a massive hit.
Why should professionalssalonconsider incorporating grace & stella products into their offerings and how can this enhance a salon’s client experience?
Carrying grace & stella in salons gives salon owners multiple ways to cash in -
treatment add-ons, express services, or retail products. Imagine adding a gold eye mask during a hair wash - instant luxury. With our killer wholesale pricing and brand recognition, salons can create memorable moments that build trust and relationships with clients.
Are there specific products or kits you recommend as ideal for salons to stock?
Start with our greatest hits: our Under Eye Masks. We suggest stocking multiple colours - because everyone has different skin concerns. For the rest of the face: Hyaluronic Acid Serum and our refreshing Rose Spray are our top picks. If you’re looking for all of them in one place - we have gift sets too. You’ve got yourself a feel-good moment.
www.graceandstella.com
Navigating the Change
In a heavily female focused industry, an inevitable part of life is dealing with the menopause and the abundance of side effects that come with it. In light of this, we’re on hand with the help of industry experts to provide knowledge in how to support both clients and staff going through this challenging stage of life.
With the UK having an ageing population, it’s now more important than ever to understand how to serve and support clients who are experiencing the effects of menopause or perimenopause. As a turbulent period in female lives, being able to provide extra touches of care to help alleviate symptoms throughout treatments or during the working day will truly showcase your salon as going the extra mile.
As a hands-on, customer facing trade, the hair and beauty industry is in a unique position to have a considerable impact on how clients feel about their bodily changes. By making a concerted effort to genuinely make a difference to clients’ experience when going through this stage of life can make a significant influence upon client retention and consumer loyalty while empowering your clients to embrace their natural beauty and achieve holistic health.
It’s important to note that each menopause journey is different, placing a significant importance on consultations and the art of asking the right questions. During a menopause with the drop in oestrogen levels, we see a depletion of collagen and elastin production, leading to concerns such as dryness and dehydration, increased sensitivity, increased facial hair, brittle nails, emotional variability and the list goes on!
On this note, not all clients will be comfortable enough to open up and share their menopause symptoms and concerns. So, armed with the right questions, professionals can ensure
Being informed and aware of this period in life enables you to act as a support network for your clients.
treatments are comfortable, without putting clients on the spot. Adriana Tomas, Andreia Professional Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs officer, shared, “Questions like, ‘How are you finding the products we’re using?’ or ‘Would you like to try something more hydrating or soothing? Enables clients to share feedback on their terms.”
An alternative route, suggested by Megan Peek, PR & Marketing Executive at Menopause in Aesthetics, is conducting regular check ins with patients to ensure you are putting their needs first. “Check-ins enable clients to feel comfortable asking for the help that they deserve. You could also ask about energy levels, sleep quality, and stress management to open a conversation without directly addressing the menopause but still providing important insights.”
Megan continued, “When it comes to salons, your treatment supports women with looking and feeling their best, even if you aren’t offering treatments directly for their symptoms. Being informed and aware of this period in life enables you to act as a support network for your clients. By attending Menopause in Aesthetics, and becoming a first responder, you are highlighting your leadership in the menopause sector and your dedication to providing first-class support for your clientele.”
Another option to ensure you’re meeting the needs of menopausal clients was suggested by OSMO Technical Advisor, Kelly Shone-Adams and owner of Technocracy Hair Salon in Neath, Port Talbot, who encouraged, “Regularly check in with your clients to ensure you are meeting their needs by sending out surveys via your email, these can be done anonymously and can really break down barriers where people can express without feeling unnecessary pressure. You can also share online resources such as articles and videos to support clients.”
As a salon providing a nonjudgemental space for individuals to discuss their worries and stresses during the menopause, this is something to shout about! Kelly encouraged, “Advertising your salon as menopausefriendly and inclusive is a great way of breaking down barriers for new clientele.”
Considering individual needs, clients within this demographic often struggle
Advertising your salon as menopause-friendly and inclusive is a great way of breaking down barriers for new clientele.
with hair loss in areas they want it most and an abundance of hair where they want it the least, having a considerable impact on confidence. Nancy Stripe, Owner of Stripe Colour Studio and Grey Blending Educator, specialises in grey blending empowerment and shared, “Our techniques embrace this stage of clients’ lives, helping them rediscover their confidence. By working with their natural white strands, we create styles that feel modern and empowered.
“This approach has been transformative, not just for our clients, but for our business. We’ve seen a significant influx of new customers, and we now educate other hairdressers to help them see the benefits of catering to
this demographic.”
For Nancy and the team at stripe, celebrating this client demographic is the cornerstone of their business. Nancy emphasised, “Offering services tailored to menopausal clients is one thing, but actively promoting these offerings through social media is another. I’ve noticed that much of the hairdressing industry has neglected this vital demographic which often alienate the older clientele.
“Menopausal clients are vibrant, full of life, and ready to embrace styles that make them feel beautiful. Don’t overlook them – they are not just a vital part of your business, but an inspiring one as well.”
Although hair on the head may be thinning, the growth of bodily hair is likely to accelerate with a fluctuation in oestrogen and testosterone levels. However, with the skin also becoming very thin, loose and more fragile during menopause, waxing services can become increasingly uncomfortable with very dry, irritated and itchy skin.
Lisa Stone, Expert and Salon System Educator strongly encouraged therapists to revise their waxing technique when treating menopausal and preimenopausal women. “We were always taught to stretch the skin when waxing and this is even more important during the menopause, due to skin becoming looser and thinner, increasing the risk of bruising. Skin must be taut when waxing, so your positioning of the client, where you place your hands to stretch is imperative. Work in small sections if need be to manage the stretch and get the clients involved, but please keep that skin tight!”
Additionally, take a closer look at your wax, as one wax does not suit all. Salon System Just Wax Multiflex is a hot wax, with its unique formula meaning it won’t stick to the skin. Lisa explained, “The wax works by shrink wrapping the hair, reducing the level of trauma on the skin, making it perfect for menopausal skin, especially on areas like the brows, top lip, chin, jawline and neck. All of these areas can be prone to strong, dark hair growth during the menopause due to fluctuation in levels of oestrogen and testosterone.”
Looking at the appointment as a whole, Lisa emphasised the importance of being observant and discussing
Menopausal clients are vibrant, full of life, and ready to embrace styles that make them feel beautiful. Don’t overlook them – they are not just a vital part of your business, but an inspiring one as well.
any concerns with clients. “You will be seeing and feeling parts of the body that maybe your client isn’t, if you feel or a spot a lump or swelling, especially when working around the armpit, don’t be afraid to point this out to your client in a very gentle way. With an increased risk around this age group and the use of HRT, it’s important to get checked and seen by a GP.” At a time when our bodies are changing beyond belief, let’s try to be sympathetic, knowledgeable, and understanding of individual needs to boost feelings of confidence and selfesteem.
When we reach perimenopause and menopause, falling oestrogen levels weaken keratin, leaving nails feeling brittle and weak. With this in mind, Adriana recommends introducing treatments from Andreia Professional with enriched care formulas to provide appropriate treatments. Adriana suggested, “The Lab: Hardener is excellent for strengthening thin, brittle nails. It creates a protective layer over the nails, reinforcing the natural keratin and protecting against further damage and
Lab: Hydro Calcium is ideal for nails that are prone to peeling, flaking, or breaking with the Hydro Calcium treatment, providing much-needed hydration and fortification.
“Incorporating hydrating hand masks or massages ensures a soothing experience for clients. We recommend our Lab:Cuticle Oils, as they offer incredible hydration power, providing a quick and effective solution for dry and cracked cuticles. During the treatment itself, menopausal clients may benefit from gentler options to protect the nails, such as Andreia’s soak-off formulas that reduce exposure to harsh removals.”
In October 2024, BABTAC (British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology), who are on a mission to improve inclusivity within the beauty industry, released a best practice guide to better equip beauty professionals for treating menopausal clients. The comprehensive 12 page guide contains an educational toolkit and provides resources to help professionals treat clients in the most effective and comfortable way possible. The guide
covers everything from emotional and physical support to recognising the signs and symptoms, physical changes to take note of, and suggestions of products to use during treatments.
On behalf of BABTAC, Tracy Munro, The Mindful Menopause Coach and Veerpal Sandhu, The Menopause Clinician, encouraged professionals to, “Avoid aggressive treatments like strong chemical peels and microdermabrasion, which might irritate sensitive skin and be mindful of hot flushes by providing options for cooling such as gua sha. Use products formulated for sensitive skin to minimise the risk of irritation or opt for natural and organic products that are less likely to cause adverse reactions.”
Looking a little closer to home, creating a comforting work environment for staff members going through this change is equally as important. Where possible, review the workplace environment to ensure employees have access to cool drinking water, toilet facilities and well-ventilated rooms. Try to offer reassurance to staff members that they will not face unfavourable treatment if they need to make adjustments or require any additional support during this period.
Tracy and Veerpal suggested, “Offer cotton or viscose uniform options to accommodate itchy skin or hot sweats and provide good ventilation. Consider also supplying a resource guide of recommended health and wellbeing service providers and verified supplements relevant to menopause. Ensure it is updated regularly to keep it current and accurate.
Offer cotton or viscose uniform options to accommodate itchy skin or hot sweats and provide good ventilation.
“Empower your clients and staff by encouraging open dialogues about menopause in your salon. Provide support and a safe space for discussions, fostering a positive narrative around this transformative phase.”
Samantha Cusick, Founder of Stā Studios and Samantha Cusick London encouraged the idea of supporting your team and creating an environment where they feel supported. “Supporting your team might mean offering flexible
work hours for someone struggling with fatigue, ensuring break areas are comfortable and cool, or simply fostering a culture where people feel safe talking about what they’re going through. Wellness programs, access to resources, or even just checking in with team members regularly can go a long way in making your staff feel cared for.
“At the end of the day, it’s about creating a salon culture that’s inclusive, empathetic, and client (and team)focused. Whether it’s tailoring services to meet menopausal clients’ needs, training your team to handle sensitive situations, or supporting staff members through their personal challenges, every little step counts.”
As a sector synonymous with cultivating physical and mental wellbeing, it is essential for salon owners and staff to be equipped with the knowledge and understanding to support both their own team and clients as they navigate their menopause journeys. By implementing effective strategies for staff and clients, you can help redefine the narrative on menopause and celebrate the strength and resilience it brings to every individual’s unique journey.
Shine On
Originating on the K-Beauty scene, the phrase “Glass Skin” is used to describe a complexion so luminous it could be modelled from glass. We touched base with Dr. Wassim Taktouk, Aesthetic Doctor and SkinCeuticals Expert to understand how to recreate this glow for clients!
What is glass skin?
Glass skin refers to skin that has a smooth “glass-like” radiance and glow.
What skin concerns might a client have who’s looking for glass skin?
Concerns from clients that want to achieve glass skin might include uneven skin texture, contraction lines, as well as a lack of radiance.
What in-salon treatments would you recommend to clients looking to achieve glass skin?
Anti-wrinkle injectables are the standard for reducing contraction lines. I also recommend Skin Boosters, which are formulations of hyaluronic acid injected superficially throughout the face to hydrate and give the skin a dewy and glowing appearance.
If glass skin is the desired outcome, is there anything outside of treatments and product that you’d recommend?
There is no such thing as “Botox in a bottle” as products are not a replacement for an injectable toxin. This being said, SkinCeuticals P-Tiox is a formula that works synergistically with neurotoxins to enhance and
support treatments, as well as promoting glass-skin radiance. P-Tiox is a unique formulation which is proven to be a strong solution for enhancing professional treatment results and promoting radiance and firmness within the skin.
What
SkinCeuticals products would you suggest to clients to achieve the desired look?
I recommend P-Tiox from SkinCeuticals. P-Tiox marks the first time SkinCeuticals has created a treatment to be paired alongside injectable toxin. As the leaders in integrated skincare, they have developed a product to not only help
contraction lines but to give the highly sought after “glass skin”.
The formula consists of neuropeptides and a glass skin complex. Neuropeptides work on the neurotransmitter pathway that leads to contraction lines. Peptides are amino acid sequences that are the building blocks for proteins. They are produced by cells, but our bodies make less as we age.
The key benefits are the reduction in 9 types of contraction lines. The equally exciting benefit is the glass-skin radiance it provides to the complexion, via the inclusion of 5% PHA, 5% niacinamide and laminaria extract in the formula, which works by gently exfoliating, brightening, and tightening the skin.
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Nurturing your Scalp Microbiome
As stylists, we focus on cleansing, conditioning, and styling hair, but healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp. Beneath every strand lies a delicate ecosystem—the scalp’s microbiome—that directly impacts hair growth and vitality. When properly cared for, it creates the ideal environment for strong, beautiful hair.
Here are a few simple ways, courtesy of Sara Jane Diaz, Innersense Organic Beauty, to care for your guests’ scalps and promote healthier hair.
Exfoliate
Product build-up, dryness, and irritation can disrupt the scalp’s natural balance. Gentle exfoliation removes build-up and restores harmony. We recommend Hair Renew Pre-Wash Treatment, a soothing scrub that uses Magnesium to cleanse and micro Hyaluronic Acid to hydrate. For a more intense exfoliation, try True Enlightenment Scalp Scrub. With Red Hawaiian Salt and Apple Fruit Extract to hydrate, and Peppermint and Tea Tree oils to invigorate, it refreshes the scalp and awakens the senses.
Massage
A regular scalp massage enhances circulation, bringing vital nutrients to the hair follicles and supporting healthy growth. For daily hydration, try Daily Hair Renew Scalp Oil, a lightweight blend of Sesame and Sunflower Seed Oils that nourishes and calms the scalp. For deeper hydration, Hair Renew Daily Active Serum replenishes moisture with Tea Tree and Hemp Seed Oils, while reducing irritation. Use our Quartz Scalp Massager to enhance the massage, stimulating the scalp gently without causing discomfort.
Cleanse
Harsh shampoos can strip the scalp of its natural oils, disrupting its microbiome and leading to dryness. Instead, use
sulphate-free cleansers that maintain hydration and balance. Our Hairbath and Daily Conditioners are formulated with Shea Butter, Tamanu Oil, and Quinoa to hydrate and strengthen both the scalp and hair.
Thermal Care
The scalp is as vulnerable to heat and UV exposure as the skin. Always apply thermal care like Hair Love Prep Spray before styling to protect both the scalp and hair from thermal damage and environmental stressors.
Incorporating Scalp Care into Your Salon Services
Scalp care is often overlooked, but adding these treatments to your menu can create a wellness-focused experience, build trust, and strengthen your salon relationships. It also educates guests on maintaining scalp health at
home for long-term results.
• Add an exfoliation treatment to blowout services to remove build up and boost circulation.
• Include a relaxing massage during shampooing to enhance circulation and relaxation.
• Address dryness or irritation before cutting to ensure a healthy scalp surface.
• Apply thermal care before any heat styling.
• Recommend retail products that support scalp health between salon visits.
As the new season begins, embrace the ceremony of scalp care in your salon. By incorporating these practices, you’re not just nurturing the scalp, but building the foundation for healthy, beautiful hair. Here’s to a vibrant scalp and gorgeous hair!
innersenseorganicbeauty.co.uk
New Year –New Scissors?
Every year, the team at Coolblades are asked about new scissors and their thoughts on having old ones serviced. We touched base with the team to hear what they would advise to get the New Year off to a cutting start!
Here is what we would advise:
If your existing scissors are less than 3 years old and have been serviced by skilled engineers, then having them serviced is probably a good option; scissor should be finely tuned every 6-12 months, depending on use.
If you are looking for a change, though, there are a few things you should consider.
Comfort
RSI and carpal tunnel syndrome are career killers, so look for scissors that minimise strain and feel ‘right’ in your hand. Offset scissors allow you to straighten your wrist slightly and lower your elbow when cutting, which can help with RSI.
Handle design makes a huge difference! You can choose from level handles, offset or crane.
Level or even handles look symmetrical and straight; most of us used this style of scissors as students.
Offset handles have one handle longer than the other. Crane handles are similar to offset handles, but the top handle is straight, which also helps lower the elbow while cutting. Additionally, you can explore more unconventional ergonomic designs, such as a fully twisting thumb ring. Whatever handle you choose, make sure it feels comfortable. There is no point trying to ‘put up’ with an uncomfortable position.
Purpose
With scissors, there is never a “one-sizefits-all” solution, so consider the diversity of demand and choose the right tool for the job.
Most of your work should be done with a scissor that’s balanced in your hand, and typically, here’s how to check the ideal size will fit when you place the scissors on the palm of your hand with the finger hole touching the base of your thumb and the tip of the blade should be resting on the last section of your middle finger.
Quality and Price
These two go hand in hand: the materials and manufacturing determine much of a scissor’s quality (and price).
Cheaper blades are made of mixed metal and have a bevelled edge. The blend of materials makes them lightweight, and the micro serrations on the cutting edge of most bevelled
blades, again like your first student scissors, prevent hair from slipping during cutting. Choose a polished edge if slicing is your goal.
For a more premium option, convex blades are hollow ground and very sharp, delivering a razor-like cutting edge. These solid stainless-steel scissors, often called “Japanese Style,” are great for slicing and precision work.
PS If you’re left-handed, please don’t feel pressure to cut with right-handed scissors. Coolblades offers a great choice of left-handed scissors.
PPS CoolBlades offers free, no-obligation advice on choosing scissors.
Visit coolblades.co.uk or Call 01253 893091. We’re here to help.
Business
Beauty Beyond the Chair
The children’s hair loss charity, Little Lady Locks, relies on the hair community to get involved to provide much-needed funds to make wigs and hair systems. We caught up with founder, Ashley Higgins, as she shared five ways salons can contribute, and make a difference to the charity and the children they help.
Become a Hair Fairy
If you have a client opting for a dramatic chop, or maybe having a sponsored cut, the hair can be cut, collected and donated. Extensionists can also donate unwanted hair extensions. The charity only uses 100% human hair to create their hairpieces and wigs, needing over 300g for each wig. Either simply complete their online donation form for a oneoff donation or become a regular Hair Fairy. Once registered as a Hair Fairy, your salon will be listed on their website for other hair donors to find you.
Fundraise (and Have Fun)
Get your friends and team involved and plan various events throughout the year, from a well-loved cake sale to greater challenges. Little Lady Locks founder, Ashley Higgins, recently ran a half marathon to raise funds herself. Every penny raised goes directly to help change a child’s life. Head to their website to request a fundraising pack with details to easily create a JustGiving page to collect the money.
Donate Regularly
From as little as £1, the charity is grateful for every contribution, and it is easy to donate as a one-off payment or monthly subscription in various ways on their website.
Spread the Word
If you’re not already following them on social media, go now! Share their content and spread awareness, introducing fellow stylists and clients to their cause. Maybe your post will also reach someone who might need their service. Join their #OnWednesdayWeWearPink for a little fun each week.
Wig Makers Welcome
If you are a skilled wig maker, the charity wants to hear from you! They work with a dedicated team across the UK, working their magic to create the wigs, hair systems and hairpieces and, with more kids being referred all the time, they are looking to grow this team to be able to speed up the services and change the lives of more children suffering with hair loss.
Looking to learn more about Little Lady Locks and how you can get involved more, get in touch with them on their website: www.littleladylocks.com
5 Minutes With…
Maddi Cook, founder of Boss your Salon, as she shares how to take control of your finances and grow your income in 2025.
As a hairdresser, you’re not just providing a service, you’re running a business. So, let’s break down how you can make 2025 the year you take control of your finances.
1. Stop Relying on Just Services
If you’re just trading time for money, you’re capping your income. Cuts and colours may always be your bread and butter, but I’m all about working smarter, not harder.
- Boost Revenue With Retail: If you’re not recommending products to your clients, you’re leaving money on the table. You’re the expert, so guide clients to products that keep their look between visits!
- The Netflix Effect: Now more than ever, we’re paying for everything via monthly subscriptions. Start a membership where clients pay monthly for priority bookings or exclusive packages. It’s a win-win— you get reliable income, and they feel like VIPs.
2. Get Serious About Your Finances
A lot of hairdressers have no idea where their money is going. You can’t manage your money until you monitor your money.
- Track Every Penny: It’s time to get organised. Use a system—whether it’s an app or good ol’ Excel, get into the habit of tracking all your income and expenses. This will give you a clear picture of your business and where you need to tighten up.
- Save for Taxes: The biggest mistake I see hairdressers make? Forgetting to put money aside for taxes. Let’s not be surprised when the taxman comes calling. Set aside 25-30% of your earnings so you’re not scrambling at the end of the year.
- Pay Yourself First: You reinvest everything into your business and forget
to actually pay yourself. No more. Set yourself a ‘salary’ and stick to it. If you’re not paying yourself, what’s the point of all the hard graft?
3. Raise the Bar, Raise the Prices
Once you’ve got a grip on making and owning your money, it’s time to scale.
- Up your Prices: If you haven’t increased your prices in the last year, now is the time. And I’m not talking about apologetically tacking on a fiver—stand firm in your value.
- Invest in Education: The more you know, the more you can charge. Stay on
top of trends, upskill yourself, and offer services that set you apart.
- Up your social game: Your social media is your shop window to the world, especially if you don’t have a traditional bricks and mortar salon. Show off your work, connect with potential clients, and position yourself as the go-to expert in your niche.
Making, owning, and scaling your money requires focus and a strategy. With these steps, you’ll start seeing more money in the bank without burning out behind the chair. It’s time to take your money seriously and build a business that works for you.
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New Year, New Business Partner
After the rush of the festive season, January offers a great opportunity to take a pause and consider your business and financial planning for the year ahead. In light of this, we hear from Ripe Insurance as they discuss the importance of partnering with insurance companies that help to reduce the financial burden.
Start 2025 right and get your business insurance sorted through Ripe. We’ll guarantee to beat your renewal quote.
For salons, 2025 is set to be full of new challenges. Changes to the national minimum wage, employer national insurance contributions and the employment allowance will directly impact how your business operates. And that’s in addition to day-to-day issues like staffing, client retention, social media marketing...the list goes on. It’s a lot to get your head around!
A partner understandsthatyour needs
For that reason, now more than ever it’s important to have a business partner at your side who not only understands your challenges but can help to reduce the financial burden and support you to thrive in the years to come.
Here at Ripe, we aim to make hair and beauty insurance beautifully simple and excellent value for money. That means cutting out the jargon and offering flexible cover instead of a one-size-fits all approach.
We know how important it is for hair and beauty pros to build a rapport with clients, so our friendly, UK-based customer service team is on-hand to talk through any queries you may have. Our online Business Advice hub also has a range of tips and useful content that you can refer to any time.
Which gives you back the time and focus to do what you do best – work with your clients and maximise your profits.
We guarantee to beat your renewal quote
Not only that, but in 2025 we’re committed to beating your renewal quote* when it comes to arranging your annual insurance. That means you can receive our best price without having to compromise on the quality of your cover.
You can either get insured today or lock in today’s price with the flexibility to start your policy anytime within the next three months.
More than 365,000 happy Ripe customers already trust us with their insurance needs. Why not join them and enjoy the confidence this brings?
We’re on your side
Get in touch with our friendly team via
Instagram @RipeHairandBeauty or visit ripeinsurance.co.uk/SALONMAG for more information and additional contact details.
We look forward to hearing from you. Here’s to a successful 2025!
*Terms & Conditions apply. Visit our website for more information.
Breaking the No-Show Cycle
No-shows and last-minute cancellations can be both frustrating and detrimental to your bottom line, so, this January, we’re enlisting industry experts to guide us through the best practices and tools you can adopt to reduce no-shows, maximise appointment schedules and start 2025 how you mean to go on!
The age-old headache of no-shows and last-minute cancellations is effectively profit walking out the door, and, while you can’t realistically expect to eliminate no-shows entirely, it’s crucial to tackle these to reduce them to lastminute complications and emergencies only!
Reducing no-shows requires a combination of clear communication, strategic policies, and using effective technology to make it easy for clients to manage and remember their appointments. Carol Ritchie, Salon Owner of Carol Ritchie Salons, shared that, on average, salons lose an eyewatering £25,000 annually due to no-shows and cancellations. With this staggering figure in mind, let’s tackle the best way to effectively reduce this.
Ellie Beb, Owner and Director of Doll Parts, Manchester, highlighted the importance of booking software when it comes to reducing no-shows, by putting
A waiting list feature ensures cancelled slots are quickly filled, and detailed reporting tracks patterns, helping salons manage repeat offenders or high-risk periods.
the ‘middle man’ between the business and client to enable the salon to enforce its cancellation policy. Ellie shared, “Removing some of the interaction from the cancellation process enables us to implement it. Charging for no-shows and cancellations is just part of business and, when properly systemised, gives us the freedom to concentrate on delivering great services to our customers.”
Honing in on the benefits of booking software, Rikki Tronson, General Manager of Salon Manager, discussed
implementing proactive measures, such as deposits, reminders and waiting lists, to help salons significantly reduce losses. Rikki highlighted, “Salon Manager combines automated appointment reminders, flexible deposit or prepayment options and an easy rescheduling process. Clients receive timely SMS or email reminders, while deposits or cancellation fees encourage commitment. A waiting list feature ensures cancelled slots are quickly filled, and detailed reporting tracks patterns,
helping salons manage repeat offenders or high-risk periods.”
Talking of repeat offenders, these are the clients that may continually let you down for one reason or another. While there may be genuine reasons behind these actions, it’s best to protect yourself and your bottom line. In light of this, Charlie Miller, Owner of Charlie Miller Salons, noted, “After the pandemic, we introduced deposits for everyone, but realised it was too confrontational for some. So, we changed it to new clients only, or anyone that misses two appointments. Having this structure helps make it less personal and supports the reception team.”
We asked Charlie what has been the most significant factor in reducing noshows, to which he shared, “What has really helped is re-booking clients before they leave. This effectively influences each client to view the appointment in their diary as more significant, and goes some way to help reduce the culture of last-minute changes.”
Rikki shared that many salons report up to a 50% reduction in no-shows after implementing deposits, cancellation fees and automated reminders to keep appointments at the top of clients’ mind, saying, “When clients pay a deposit or face a clear cancellation fee, they’re more likely to honour their appointments or provide advance notice if they need to reschedule. It establishes a sense of commitment and respect for the salon’s time.”
With last-minute cancellations being a real nuisance, they can simultaneously be a real joy for clients in need of an urgent last-minute appointment! For salons looking to maximise income potential and enhance client satisfaction, it’s a win-win situation. Danny Le Beau, Salon Manager at the John Frieda Salon Group, has enlisted the help of a waitlist as a crucial part of the customer service offered. Danny noted, “We want to make sure the client on the wait list is given an appointment. Booking software has definitely helped us better manage noshows and last-minute cancellations, as the system can pick up on a cancellation as soon as it happens and prompt you to give it to someone on the waitlist.”
Ellie encourages clients to keep an eye out for last-minute appointments on the booking system, as the salon often operates additional hours for regulars
Many salons report up to a 50% reduction in no-shows after implementing deposits, cancellation fees and automated reminders.
struggling to book, and reaches out to clients having difficulty should a spot become available. Ellie continued, “We prefer to keep clients well informed about diary opening dates, and we offer a paid ‘pre-booking’ system, where we manually book clients willing to pay a small fee to secure regular appointments in coveted spots a year in advance.”
A popular alternative to waitlists is for businesses to post about their availability on social media. With these last-minute bookings, there are often discounts associated, which poses the question; will clients hold off booking to get lastminute deals? Ellie discussed, “Longterm, I believe this to be damaging for both the technician as an individual and the industry overall. Last-minute discounts can disincentivise clients from booking in advance, alienate regular clients who book consistently and, ultimately, devalue our time. We sometimes display cancellations, but never apply discounts in cancelled slots.”
Joe Emir, co-founder of Inanch London, further noted, “Posting about
last-minute appointments on social media encourages clients to wait for last-minute deals—we therefore avoid posting on social media, as a waiting list works better.”
On the contrary, Carol shared, “If you have a big team, this is a great way to grab your clients’ attention and, even better, encourage upselling with some bespoke packages. It’s really what works best for your salon and the area you are in.”
On the whole, booking software is vital for enhancing efficiency and accountability, leading to fewer missed appointments and better time management. Deposits or prepayments tied to a booking create financial commitment, with automated waitlists becoming increasingly important for the ever-hectic schedules and for improving customer service. While it’s ambitious to hope to mitigate the effect of no-shows and last-minute cancellations completely, we hope this provides you with an abundance of ways to ensure they’re minimal this New Year.
Sustainability Solutions
Starting the year as we mean to go on, we hear from two of the Green Salon Collective’s Green Libertines as they discuss the best way to start your salon sustainability journey in 2025.
Claire Higgs, Salon Owner, Nylon Hair Artists
If you’re wondering how to start your salon sustainability journey, we would suggest doing the simple things first. Start off small so you don’t get overwhelmed with all the things that could be done. Think of your home and what you do there. Plastic and glass, for instance, check with your local council, as many have sustainable practices such as cardboard waste collection that is free; some do more. Then take a look at the bigger picture; check where the most improvement could be made. Salons use so much water, and eco heads are amazing to reduce this, while energy consumption and using energyefficient bulbs are other big ones to consider. Of course, you can always contact Green Salon Collective, who can give not only ideas but can collect the used foil and hair for you. Companies such as Hubba will collect your chemical waste and turn it into energy. Involve the whole team; ask for their ideas too! Start shouting it out to your clients and feel the buzz of doing something fantastic; setting realistic goals and timelines also helps, but most of all enjoy the journey and all the positives it brings by truly helping our planet.
Sam Caldwell-Smith, Salon Manager, BA1Hair
So many of us love the idea of doing our bit, but so few of us have the time to sit and research all things eco-friendly for our industry; even then we run the risk of falling into so many greenwashing traps that exist. It’s incredible how frustrating it is. Luckily today there are so many big and small changes we can make to improve our impact, whether it’s changing your laundry detergent or what foils you use, maybe even something bigger like what brand you partner with. All of these things are brilliant questions to ask yourself as a salon owner, but inevitably they can come with a culture change that’s hard to manage and easily puts you off. My advice would always be to start small and bring your team and clients with you. Share your research, take their questions, and give them a chance to be proud of the impact you’re having. Green Salon Collective creates low-cost (usually even profitable) uncomplicated processes to make an enormous impact and then goes one step further and gives you hard facts as to how much waste you’re diverting from landfill.
A Safety Net During Treatment
The Little Princess Trust provides around 2,000 wigs every year to children and young people with hair loss. Lauren Hickinbottom is one of those to have received a wig from the charity and she explains just how important the wig was for her after she lost her hair during treatment.
When Lauren Hickinbottom underwent chemotherapy, she always wore her Little Princess Trust wig. The wig was, in her own words, her safety net and helped to take away the pressure society places on young people to ‘fit in’.
Lauren was studying a BA in politics at Sheffield University when she received the shattering news that she had Hodgkin lymphoma. She started treatment but only told close friends and family that she had cancer.
“I didn’t want people knowing because I didn’t want the sympathy that came with it,” she said. “I wanted to be a student, not ‘the student with cancer’.” It was after her second chemotherapy session when Lauren began to lose her hair – and when she received a wig from The Little Princess Trust.
Lauren shared, “Being young, there is so much pressure on the way you look already and fitting a mould – when you
lose your hair you don’t fit in any mould. I always wore my wig. That was my safety net and, despite being a big adjustment, it did give me a sense of confidence.”
Teenage Cancer Trust told Lauren about The Little Princess Trust’s free wig service and it wasn’t long before the charity put Lauren in contact with one of its accredited wig fitters at Trends Wigs in Sheffield.
They cut and styled the wig as per Lauren’s instructions and the wig made her feel “less like somebody who was having chemo and more normal”. Lauren added, “I wore my wig everywhere and cannot emphasise the difference it made to my life. Having it be real hair and not synthetic was also amazing because it meant I could straighten and curl it just as I would’ve done usually for my hair.”
Despite undergoing treatment through her time at university, Lauren graduated with a 2:1 and, after being given the all-clear from cancer, spent time travelling in South Africa and Portugal.
Lauren, who has promised herself to make the most of any opportunity, said: “I have always been a happy, positive person but I think if anything the cancer has made me even more so. I put more pressure on myself to find the things I really want to do now.”
The Little Princess Trust provides real hair wigs, free of charge, to children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or other conditions. For more information on the charity, email www.littleprincesses.org.uk or call 01432 352359.
Lauren Hickinbottom (above right) wore her Little Princess Trust wig throughout her time at university.
Transform Payments and Loyalty
Looking for more control, more rewards and instant access to the money you earn in the salon? Look no further, as we hear from Lopay, the UK’s lowest cost, highest rated payment app, on what makes them the perfect fit for your business.
What makes Lopay the best choice for salon owners?
Lopay offers the lowest-cost payment acceptance fees in the UK, helping salons save more on every transaction. New merchants get 0% payment acceptance fees on their first £2,000 of payments, making it the perfect solution for salons looking to reduce costs and grow their business.
Beyond low fees, Lopay’s smart business terminal does much more than process payments. It becomes your salon’s all-in-one solution, hosting your services, products, and customer loyalty programs—all accessible with the touch of a button.
Not enough? Lopay offers a free expense & reward cards with zero commitment, costs or strings attached. This allows Salon owners to have instant access to their revenue when a client pays as well as 50% cashback in free payment processing whenever they spend on the card. Giving Salon owners a chance to get their payment processing down to 0%.
How does Lopay’s loyalty feature benefit salon owners?
Traditional loyalty cards often have low adoption rates—typically only 10-20% of customers use them. Lopay eliminates this hurdle with payment-linked loyalty. Instead of handing out physical cards, the terminal links rewards directly to a customer’s card when they pay. Here’s how it works:
• A customer makes a payment, and
their card is automatically saved for loyalty tracking.
• Salon owners can design their own loyalty campaigns on the terminal—such as offering a free product or discount after 5 visits.
• On their next visit, customers automatically receive their reward from tapping their card, no extra effort required.
This seamless approach encourages repeat visits and builds stronger relationships with clients, boosting your revenue and customer satisfaction.
Can salon owners customise their marketing campaigns with Lopay?
Absolutely! Lopay’s smart business terminal puts marketing power into the hands of salon owners. You can create and manage your own promotions directly from the terminal. For example:
• Offer a 20% discount for customers who book a specific service within a month.
• Create a “buy 4 blow-dries, get the 5th free” campaign.
• Run seasonal promotions like free treatments for holiday bookings. This flexibility allows salons to craft campaigns tailored to their unique clientele, driving customer engagement and loyalty. The Lopay smart business terminal is one of the most competitively priced and technologically advanced, helping Salons boost their revenue.
What’s this about a free rewards and expenses card?
Lopay’s free reward and expenses card is a game-changer for salon owners. Here’s why:
• Every time you take a payment, the funds are instantly accessible on your card.
• When you use the card for any purchase—you earn 50% cashback in free payment processing on your revenue.
This means every purchase helps reduce your future transaction fees, giving you even more savings. It’s like getting rewarded for running your business!
How easy is it to get started with Lopay?
Joining Lopay is simple, fast, and hasslefree:
1. Sign up online: It only takes a few minutes to get started.
2. Enjoy 0% fees: Begin processing your first £2,000 of payments at no cost.
3. Access your funds instantly: Payments are available in real time on your free Lopay card.
4. Set up loyalty and marketing: Use the smart business terminal to create loyalty programs and campaigns that fit your salon’s needs.
How can Lopay
help salons stand out in a competitive market?
Lopay isn’t just a payment solution—it’s a tool for growth. By offering:
• Customisable marketing campaigns, tailored to your business.
• Instant access to funds and cashback rewards, boosting your cash flow. Lopay empowers salons to operate more efficiently, deliver better client experiences, and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
What
are salon owners saying about Lopay?
Salons across the UK are raving about Lopay! Here’s what one salon owner had to say:
“Lopay has transformed how we handle payments and loyalty. Clients love the seamless rewards, and we love the savings. It’s a win-win!”
Where
can I learn more about Lopay?
Visit www.lopay.com to learn more and sign up today. Don’t wait—join the thousands of UK businesses already enjoying lower fees, smarter loyalty, and instant access to funds.
If you’re ready to reduce costs, simplify your payment process, and create loyal clients who return time and again, it’s time to switch to Lopay. With its cuttingedge features and unbeatable cost savings, Lopay is the perfect partner for salons looking to grow.
Discover the Luar Multi-Purpose Chair
Enhance client experiences and expand possibilities for hair and beauty, while creating new sensations of luxury with Takara Belmont.
As salons adapt to changing client expectations, the service and treatment landscape continues to evolve. Japanese head spa treatments, scalp care, and hand and nail conditioning services continue to gain popularity, as clients visit the salon for more than just great haircare and beauty.
“Clients see salons as a sanctuary for relaxation and well-being,” says Takara Belmont’s National Sales Manager, Katie Fielder. “By recognising this, salons can deliver the services and experiences their clients want and maximise their growth potential.”
Luar - An Elevation in FunctionalityMulti-Purpose
Equipment innovation drives change by supporting the introduction of a wider range of services and Takara Belmont’s latest launch perfectly reflects this transformation. The Luar multi-purpose, fully motorised chair delivers superior
comfort, enabling salons to enhance existing services and incorporate new hair and beauty rituals into their menu.
Compact Innovation Brings New Opportunities
Katie comments, “Luar is compact, so salons can upscale every service in their existing space. As an elevation in design, advanced ergonomics and motorised functionality, Luar makes it possible to perform hair and beauty services at the styling station, which means clients can remain in one place to enjoy their service.”
The Perfect Combination of Design, Comfort and Convenience
Luar’s wide, deep cushioned seat and backrest, full lie-flat mode and heated legrest are among features that promote
comfort and relaxation, even during longer services. With gown rods, a dryer holder and service table also included as standard, optional extras such as an external backrest cushion, additional service table, footstep pad and wider leg cushion introduce an extra level of customisation.
Katie adds, “Luar works in perfect synergy with our Yume Oasis mobile backwash unit, or fixed backwash positions to provide the ultimate in versatility and convenience.”
Luar is available with Takara Belmont’s 0%, zero deposit Finance Lease Scheme.
Discover Luar at www.takarahairdressing.co.uk
Learn more about Takara Belmont’s 0%, zero deposit Finance Lease Scheme www.takarahairdressing.co.uk/finance
Luar
Newly launched
Utilise the January lull by introducing beauty treatments into your service menu with the multi-purpose Luar.
Service table included to enable you to add manicures to your menu
Lie-flat function provides ultimate comfort during longer treatments
Make a showroom appointment today to learn how our products can boost your business in 2025
Heated legrest enhances every service to new levels of luxury
Enquire about our 0%, zero deposit finance
A Fresh Start
As we bring in the New Year, it creates the perfect opportunity to breathe some new life into the salon through updating interiors. Being mindful of the time of year and challenges the budget may bring, we share a handful of ways to refresh salon interiors on a budget.
Brush Up!
Repainting is one of the most transformative, yet low-cost, ways to give a salon a much-needed facelift! A fresh coat of paint can instantly refresh a space, create the right atmosphere, and instantly enhance staff and client experiences. For hair salons, colours like whites, greys or soft beiges provide a clean backdrop that doesn’t compete with client’s features. Alternatively, for salons offering wellness services, shades such as soft blues or mint greens help evoke a sense of tranquillity.
Proper Preparation…
It can be really tempting to rush in with a pot of paint and accessories you find, but in the long run it’s more beneficial to have a plan of how you envision the salon to look. Create mood boards to help create the look you want to achieve and be consistent with it. Think about your clientele here also; do you have an older clientele and need to think about investing in more comfortable backwash chairs? Or a young, trendy salon? If so, you may want to think about an interesting feature wall to encourage clients to share their pictures on social media.
Reduce, Reuse, Upcycle
Rather than buying new furniture, consider upcycling old pieces with fresh coats of paint, new upholstery, or adding accessories. For example, repainting salon chairs, refreshing mirrors, changing
handles on cupboards, or reupholstering stools can provide the salon with a modern look at a fraction of the cost of new prices. Search for second-hand furniture that can easily be revamped to suit your style through Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or eBay for a real bargain!
First Impressions Count
Regardless of budget, the salon reception area is where all first impressions are formed and so, must be as welcoming as possible. Tasks such as removing clutter and out-of-date advertising or rearranging furniture can work wonders in refreshing a reception area. Strapped for cash? Invest in clever storage solutions, consider repainting a
feature wall, or replacing the reception desk.
Glowing Strong
Lighting is one of the most impactful elements in a salon’s ambience and functionality, while also giving the illusion of the salon being much bigger. Replace old fluorescent bulbs with energyefficient LED lights to lower your salon’s energy bills while providing bright, clear light that flatters clients. Natural light can also make a salon feel warm and inviting. Consider how you can arrange furniture and mirrors to make the most of sunlight. Mirrors help to amplify the natural lighting in your salon, helping to make the space feel bigger.
The Fellowship Focus
Welcome to our regular Fellowship Focus, where this month, the annual Luncheon is taking centre stage after bringing together over 450 U.K and international industry guests to celebrate and reminisce over the last year, whilst looking forward to 2025 and outlining the vision for what lies ahead.
The Fellowship for British Hairdressing celebrated an incredible 12 months with their annual Luncheon and Awards, held at the exclusive Londoner hotel on Leicester Square – the biggest and best independent networking and awards event in the industry.
The Luncheon serves as an opportunity for Fellowship members, sponsors, brand partners, and their guests come together to network, all whilst celebrating the evolution of the Fellowship as it continues to shape the future of hairdressing.
Welcoming the guests to the annual festive celebration, Fellowship President Ashleigh Hodges, recapped about the achievements since taking over the presidency role just 6 short months ago, and honouring the theme of Community and Strength, which underpins her presidency term.
Ashleigh then welcomed to the stage Vice President Michelle Griffin, who honoured the Fellowship four pillars of
Creativity, Opportunity, Diversity and Inclusivity. Michelle went on to thank the Fellowship members, sponsors, partners and audience for their continued support and loyalty over the last 12 months.
The duo then went on to honour the Fellowship Patrons and anniversaries throughout the industry, then moving onto the celebration of the 2024/5 Scholarship Winners and the unveiling of the two new Regional Ambassadors.
With the anticipation already building, the 2024 achievements announcement began, with a host of fabulous names being awarded this year’s medals and titles. Ashleigh then went on to remember those we lost over the last year, including a poignant tribute to Fellowship Patron, Trevor Sorbie MBE – who sadly passed away in the weeks leading up to the event.
Following an exquisite lunch, the luncheon continued with CEO Barry Stephens gracing the stage, joining Ashleigh to launch the new Ann Herman Scholarship, a tribute to Ann and her lifelong contribution to the organisation. This was followed by the announcement of the new Fellowship Youth Board and the plans for 2025, including the Net Zero and Safe Space initiatives.
With celebrations continuing, the presenters continued with the unveiling of this winners of the Art & Commerce Awards with winners including the likes of Medusa, STĀ Studios and R.W. Wolf Barbers.
The highly anticipate 2025 F.A.M.E. Team was also announced, consisting of Sam Bickle from Arkive by Adam Reed, Steve-Leah Loscombe from Blue Tit,
independent launch platform for creative stylists.
the new leader of the F.A.M.E. Team for 2025 – 2026, Christel Barron-Hough, the Founder and Creative Director, STIL Salon.
The Fellowship Academy of Merit and Excellence is an annual initiative that was created to nurture, encourage, and promote an elite group of up-andcoming hairdressers in all aspects of the industry. The F.A.M.E. team is designed for those who are looking to take their career to the next level, with a place on the team offering unique experience and a possible platform for future stardom.
The F.A.M.E. team is the UK hairdressing industry’s original, and still the best,
Rounding off a fabulous, festive celebration, former President Robert Eaton took to the stage bringing to a close the afternoon, with the announcement of the Fellowship Lifetime Achievement Award. Having held the individual in high regard throughout his career and choosing him as one of his icons within the Presidents Night celebration back in June, Nicky Clarke was the unveiled as the recipient of the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award. The final award, Fellowship Hairdresser of the Year was awarded to the Creative Director of Rainbow Room International, Suzie McGill.
Bekki Delehedy from Dot Hair, and Annie Franklin from Prestige Hair, alongside
Raising the Bar
Maintaining high hygiene standards is essential for salons in today’s competitive beauty industry. With cleanliness leading as one of the top factors clients consider when selecting a salon, we hear from Miele as they discuss how professional laundry systems can enhance salon hygiene and sustainability.
Laundry systems play a vital role in upholding a salon’s hygiene credentials. During the 2020 pandemic, many salons turned to single-use towels to minimize the risk of infection. While this was a necessary measure at the time, some salons still rely on disposable items, which are costly and unsustainable. With advancements in professional laundry technology, salons can now transition back to reusable towels, combining cleanliness with sustainability.
To improve hygiene and maintain high standards, here are three steps every salon can take when it comes managing their laundry:
Switch to On-Premise Laundry
Salons that currently use single-use towels or outsource their laundry should consider moving to an on-premise laundry (OPL) setup. Managing laundry on-site offers faster turnaround times, eliminates outsourcing expenses, and provides greater control over hygiene and quality. Clients notice the difference when freshly laundered towels are readily available, enhancing their experience and boosting the salon’s reputation.
Invest in CommercialGrade Machines
Many salons use domestic machines, but these are not designed to handle the heavy demands of a salon environment. Commercial-grade machines, like those from Miele, feature specialized cycles to effectively remove oils, residues, and other salon-related stains. These machines keep towels clean, fluffy, and safe for reuse. Salons that have laundry machines connected to public mains water supply should also ensure compliance with water regulations like WRAS or Kiwa, which guarantee safety
and quality. Domestic machines lack these certifications, increasing the risk of hygiene issues and safety hazards.
Consider your detergents
When purchasing commercial-grade laundry equipment, don’t overlook the importance of compatible detergents. Specialist detergents enhance results, and digital laundry management tools ensure proper dosing, saving you money.
Use High-Quality Towels
The quality of towels can significantly impact the client experience. Clean, soft, and fluffy towels contribute to a sense of luxury and professionalism. By using commercial machines, salons can maintain their towels in pristine condition, ensuring clients feel valued and cared for during every visit.
In conclusion, a professional laundry system is essential for salons aiming to deliver excellent client experiences. Investing in OPL, commercial machines, and high-quality towels elevates hygiene, supports sustainability, and helps salons stand out in a competitive market.
