Salon Magazine March 2024

BEAUTY WE MAKE IT POSSIBLE

DIVES MED is a new dimension of medical and cosmetic products created to fight for healthy and beautiful skin. Innovative compositions, synergistic combinations, high condensation of formulas and modern and advanced production technologies are the world of DIVES MED, in which Beauty and Youth are again POSSIBLE…

07904

Editor

Ailsa Newgreen ailsa@cimltd.co.uk

Managing Editor

Jade Evans jade@cimltd.co.uk

Publication Manager

Declan Wale

declan@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 112

Account Managers

James Davies

jamesd@cimltd.co.uk

Api Somboongedd api@cimltd.co.uk

Rhys Roberts rr@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 112

Design and Production

James Taylor

james@cimltd.co.uk

Grant Waters grant@cimltd.co.uk

Administration Manager

Natalie Murray admin@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 103

Credit Facilities Manager

Gwen Lee

creditcontrol@cimltd.co.uk

Tel: 01795 509 103

Marketing Manager

Lucas Payne

lucas@cimltd.co.uk

Sales Director

Tom Woollin tom@cimltd.co.uk

Chief Executive

John Denning

On the cover

Image courtesy of CJP Nail Systems.

Special thanks to Andy Park Photography

Daniella Ingle - HMUA

Ellie Porch - Model

Jemma Porch - Nails

Editor’s letter

Spring has sprung! As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, March brings forth a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. A month of embracing change and stepping outside to enjoy the soft sunlight, March symbolises hope, growth and a breath of fresh air that ushers the arrival of spring.

With the talk of embracing change, some clients may be looking for personal change in the form of a fresh colour to revamp their look. With this in mind, we hear from industry experts on how to manage client expectations and deal with potentially negative feedback with colouring treatments.

The arrival of spring may bring longer, lighter days, but as always the mental health within your salon remains prevalent. A trip to the beautician or hairdressers is more than a service for many, it is a chance to offload and decompress. In light of this, we look into how to support both staff and client wellbeing.

To round off this issue, complementing our usual features, we have an exciting Editor’s Day Out with the wonderful team at Dyson, learning about the latest product innovation within the beauty industry.

Email Admin@cjpnails.co.uk

We hope you enjoy this March issue of Salon Magazine and be sure to let us know what you think!

44

79

Contents

17 CLIENT WELLBEING

A trip to the salon is more than a service for many; it’s a chance to offload and a safe space to talk. We discuss how to navigate mental health in a salon environment.

22 ESSENTIAL 5

We explore 5 ways to maintain positive wellbeing in your salon.

34 5 MINTUES WITH Business coach Kerry Curl shares how to be social media savvy with innovative content ideas for salons.

38 SUSTAINABLE

SOLUTIONS

With sustainability at the forefront of business decisions, we suggest some sustainable solutions to implement in your salon.

44 EDITOR’S DAY

OUT

Our Editor visited to Dyson HQ to go behind the scenes and learn about product innovation in the beauty industry.

69 HAIR COLOURING

With a new season bringing about change, we look into dealing with negative feedback surrounding colouring treatments.

Sebastian Professional announces the 2024 Cult Team

A group of six inspiring and creative hairdressers have been crowned as the new 2024 Sebastian CULT Team.

The dynamic team have managed to stand out from the competition and make it through the initial online entry and a live audition where they presented a total look model creation to a panel of hairdressing experts.

The new CULT team will be mentored by two leading artists, Dom Capel and Angelo Vallillo, throughout a 12-month programme. The team are:

Adam Loughnane-Hill – Adam Loughnane-Hill.

Bekki Delehedy – Dot Hair.

Nikki Rundell – Rita Rusk International.

Tina Whitehead - Hairitage86

Ayesha Caunt Buonocore – Hairven.

Melissa Clements – Francesco Group.

“We are so excited to welcome the new CULT team. I’m confident we have an outstanding combination of skills and raw talent who will work together perfectly. I can’t wait to start mentoring the team and see their creativity at work. The Sebastian brand has no boundaries and embraces individuality, which reflects the hairdressing skills of this team perfectly,” said Sebastian Professional International Team Artist, Angelo Vallillo.

@sebastianpro_official

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) Welcomes Government T Level Decision

After much lobbying by the NHBF, the Secretary of State for Education announced in March 2023 the decision to delay the delivery of the Hairdressing, Barbering, and Beauty Therapy (HBBT) T Level to 2024. Since then, the government has met regularly with the NHBF, hairdressing, barbering, and beauty professionals and employers to discuss their skills needs, as well as with other sector representatives regarding the planned HBBT T Level.

In beauty, the sector told the government that a good-quality level 3 classroom-based progression route is desirable. As such, the government has announced that they will not be introducing the HBBT T Level to the hair sector and will not be pursuing hair or barbering specialties in future T Levels.

The government has said that it is confident that this is the right decision, which puts the career prospects of learners and the needs of industry first, though it was not taken lightly.

www.nhbf.co.uk

Kirsten Oswald, MP for East Renfrewshire, calls for a VAT reduction for hair and beauty Salons

Ahead of the spring budget, due on March 6, Ms. Oswald has written to the Chancellor, noting that the cost-of-living crisis, rising bills, and payroll pressures are putting strain on struggling hair and beauty salons, and called for the Chancellor to reduce VAT for these businesses to 10%.

Currently, salons that operate a rent-a-chair model usually fall below the VAT threshold, which in turn depresses sector-wide pricing. As a result, many traditional salons are having to choose between adopting a rent-a-chair model or ceasing to trade.

Ms. Oswald raised concerns that the potential large-scale closure of traditional hair and beauty salons posed a risk to the sustainability of high streets, employment prospects, and the Exchequer’s revenues.

Commenting, Brian Macmillan, the owner of F&M Hairdressing, a salon based in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire, said:

“Our businesses need to be on a level playing field, and at the moment, cost pressures mean that we are not. So, we need action in the budget to support hairdressing businesses that benefit our high streets all across the country.” www.snp.org/your-team/kirsten-oswald/

OSMO Announces New Technical Educator: Terry Longden

OSMO is pleased to announce its latest team addition, the legendary Terry Longden, a seasoned professional with over 40 years in the hairdressing industry with outstanding educational and creative skills.

With over 20 years’ experience as an educator, Terry will be responsible for delivering OSMO and OSMO IKON training courses across the East Midlands area, working with OSMO key wholesalers, alongside delivering live education through the OSMO social channels.

Terry explained: “OSMO is a brand I’ve known for many years, having used various OSMO IKON products in my salon. The real standout of the brand is that it’s a British brand. Already, I can appreciate the hard work and dedication the OSMO team commits to our craft and how closely they collaborate with hairdressers, too. It’s going to be a great opportunity for me to share my extensive hair colouring, styling, and educational knowledge with the OSMO team and customers. I can’t wait to get started!”

“When the recent opportunity came up to invite Terry to join the OSMO family, it was something we couldn’t overlook! His experience within the industry is second to none, and we’re so excited to see what the future brings.” OSMO Senior Brand Manager, Sinéad McLaughlin, concludes.

www.osmo.uk.com

Nail your Style

Launched in 2015, CJP Nail Systems is a brand ‘By Techs for Techs’. We hear from the founder, Jemma Porch, discussing everything nail-related and what to expect from the brand in 2024!

Please introduce us to the brand and what it strives to achieve.

CJP officially launched in 2015 after being in the nail industry for years and we created the slogan ‘By Techs for Techs’, since that’s precisely what CJP was. In 2015, independent nail brands were few and far between, and I was constantly hoping for more from products. I used to design colours for my own clientele, which is how I came to work on my own product line. The foundations of the brand were established far in advance of 2015, and the hard work was completed before the product debuted. It was then time to get nail technicians to fall in love with the products, and fall in love they did!

What makes your brand stand out from competitors?

I think it’s our individuality. For daily needs, customers can reach me through our Facebook group, CJP Nails Systems (official Facebook group). We have decided against having brand ambassadors, as we feel every single customer who chooses to use CJP is an

I want people to shout about CJP from the rooftops... because they genuinely believe in the brand.

advocate for our products. Instead, we offer significant discounts regularly and always have savings on products like “Build Your Own Kit,” where customers choose their own products while enjoying huge discounts. I want people to shout about CJP from the rooftops, not because they are contracted, but because they genuinely believe in the brand.

Images © Karen Stynes

As sustainability continues to be a huge focus for a range of sectors, what initiatives has CJP Nails put into place in line with this?

We’ve examined our single-use plastics and packaging whilst also reducing our use of bubble wrap by more than half by purchasing an air filling machine and when practical, moving from plastic to paper bubble wrap bags. In order to avoid having to individually wrap each gel polish, we also had cardboard boxes constructed for them to be sent in. We are also working to further reduce this by utilising crumpled brown paper as a filler in the boxes.

What can we expect from the brand in 2024?

Huge things are coming from CJP in 2024, I am really excited to be working with The Salon Magazine! Recently, we launched an easy soak-off builder gel (ESG) and we’re launching a wider range of colours, due to consumer demand. In 2022 we made it our mission to remove HEMA from 95% of our range to ensure we have a vast HEMA-free and vegan selection to offer. We are a close-knit team at HQ, and we all work together, to ensure turnaround times continually improve. To support our clients further, we have a resident nail nurse who comes to our HQ every Monday between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., where our customers can come in for free support and advice.

What results can be achieved with your products?

Our products are totally inclusive, regardless of whether you are a beginner or a pro, our products are suitable. We are extremely lucky that some of the best technicians in the country choose to use CJP Nail Systems, and in turn, we are always honoured when a new nail technician starts their journey with us. We

Our products are totally inclusive, regardless of whether you are a beginner or a pro.

provide a huge level of support, with educators up and down the country delivering our courses, alongside our Facebook haven, where CJP techs from all over the world support each other.

How can our readers work with you?

Readers can be involved with the brand via our Facebook group, CJP Nails Systems (official Facebook group). This page is a hive of activity and has members posting around the clock for help and advice. Our Instagram and TikTok are both run by working nail technicians who work with CJP and use the platforms to showcase work and provide inspiration. I take great pride in the fact that our support group is a safe haven, and no question is considered

silly. We have established a nice community of like-minded professionals throughout the years, and the support group has a zero-tolerance policy for offensive remarks. The group consists of over 26,000 CJP members, and I have to give thanks to the group admin for ensuring the page is supportive, kind, and, most importantly, educational.

A Bright Future

This month, Jasmine Palmer, also known as @byjasminerosep, features as our rising star. Being fully booked within 3 months of opening, Jasmine talks about the importance of authenticity and enhancing the overall client experience to stand out in such a competitive industry.

When did you discover your passion for nails?

In 2022, I first entered my mum’s salon retreat as an apprentice. I have always seen myself as an artistic person, but I never thought I would get satisfaction and joy from painting nails. Working with my mum played a huge part in shaping my passion, from practicing technical skills to adopting an appreciation for creativity. In May 2023, I took a leap and became self-employed, with zero clients and only 400 followers on my Instagram nail account, @byjasminerosep. Less than a year later, I am thrilled to be fully booked, and have found fulfilment within the nail industry.

How did you find your style, and what are your tips for other nail specialists trying to stand out?

I found my style solely through trial and error. In the competitive world of nails, standing out requires more than just technical skill; it demands a genuine passion for your craft. As a nail tech, focusing on what you love to do can set you apart and attract clients who appreciate your unique flair.

Clients can sense authenticity, and when you’re genuinely passionate about the designs you create, it reflects in your work. Whether it’s intricate nail art or personalised styles, showcasing what you love enhances the overall client experience. My top tip for other nail specialists would be to not try and stand out, but create a bond with your clients to gain an understanding relationship where they feel comfortable that their expectations will always be met. I create a comfortable environment for my clients, and I will always do what is asked to the best of my ability, from clean, sleek finishes to detailed designs.

What would you describe your speciality as, and how did this define your target audience?

My specialty is my passion for nails, and a lot of my clients have mentioned that

they continually searched for a nail tech who truly cared for the health of their nails. I love a simple block colour, but also adore a French tip. I also enjoy when my clients give me something fun to do so I can challenge myself. My genuine passion for nails has become something that stands out, attracting clients who appreciate the time and perfection behind every set.

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?

Social media can have such a huge effect on your career in this age when everything is instantaneous, and can be scary as a new nail technician. Building a thriving social media presence is

more than just gathering followers, and I’ve learnt that focusing on genuine connections with other nail artists and offering tips and support is key to sustainable growth. By growing connections with other techs, you have the ability to learn so much, and meet new friends!

Rather than fixating on the number of followers, my approach focuses on

sharing my authentic passion for nails, as quality engagement and meaningful interactions are far more impactful than a number at the top of your page. I grew my clientele by putting my absolute all into my work, word of mouth and attracting clients to practice with. This dedication has been a real benefit to my work, as I was fully booked 3 months from opening.

What are your goals for the future, and how do you plan on achieving them?

In the future, I believe in helping fellow techs start up, creating content that addresses the challenges, and answering the questions of new nail techs in the industry. When I was starting up, I really struggled with a lack of knowledge and understanding of going self-employed, and I want to provide this knowledge for future nail technicians.

I have plans to stay consistent with my social media presence and to continually learn new skills and techniques. One of the best things about my job is forming a bond with clients to come together and create something truly magical in the form of creativity. I love to hear people’s stories and believe wholeheartedly that there is no such thing as ‘just a nail tech’. I thrive on being that break from reality for some of my clients—the shoulder to cry on, the mid-week relaxation session, the strong sister offering advice, and a general companion in so many fellow nail lovers’ lives. I will always be learning in this industry.

@byjasminerosep

Salon of the Month Boombae, Dublin

Meticulously designed to be fully disabilitycompliant in all areas.

The newly opened Boombae is a colour and hair extension megasalon. Given the success of the first Boombae, which debuted in Manchester in 2019, it only seemed fitting to extend the salon brand over the sea to Dublin, Ireland. Carley and Ciara, owners and partners, have been working towards their goals together for the past eight years. Ciara, originally from Dublin, started out sweeping salon floors as an apprentice 17 years ago, and Carley assured Ciara: “One day we will bring our business back to your hometown as the biggest salon in Dublin.”

As of January 20th 2024, Carley and Ciara’s ambitions have become reality! A colossal 400 square feet of stunning salon space, complete with 12 stylist stations, a boardroom, and three treatment rooms for sibling business, The Laser Club, is revolutionising the Dublin beauty industry. Boombae has been meticulously designed to be fully disability-compliant in all areas, as Carley proudly noted: “Inclusivity is very important to us.” For Carley and Ciara, their biggest motivator for success is their little toddler, Tiger, as the couple shared: “Ultimately, everything we do is for him.”

When selecting stylists at Boombae, personality is crucial, and it’s a plus when stylists exhibit incredible work. With more than 50 applications for positions, the salon had no trouble filling its vacancies in Dublin! This stood in sharp contrast to Carley and Ciara’s Manchester salon, where they found the majority of stylists had taken the plunge to become self-employed.

At Boombae, Carley and Ciara understand the importance of providing customers with suitable food and drink, as nobody wants a hangry client! At the salon, free drinks are offered, such as cocktails, gins and coffees. For clients who may be in the salon for hair extensions or longer appointments, Caesar salads and wraps are also readily available. No detail has been overlooked in the design process of Boombae, with a Kangen water machine removing all chemicals from water, resulting in

the cleanest water available for clients.

The interior planning of the salon was meticulous to ensure the tones and décor embody the brand’s aim of being individual, positive and quirky, keeping the idea of an entire salon experience at the forefront of design. Carley and Ciara shared: “We love pink, but hate Barbie pink.” Thus, it was crucial to get the correct tone of pastel and light pink to create a fresh and lively salon, without going overboard. Accents of black throughout the salon help to make it pop, while adding something unique to the interior. The duo noted: “We used a pink and grey Polyfloor, which is often used in medical settings.” Who knew medical flooring would look so gorgeous in a hair salon?

Navigating the launch of a new salon over the Irish Sea has been quite a task for Carley and Ciara. There have been a multitude of journeys using an array of transport methods, with logistical difficulties not few and far between! Since many of the items required for Boombae, such as furniture and machinery, could not be found in the Ireland, the pair had to ship over two goods lorries full of stock and furniture from the UK. Carley and Ciara noted: “Navigating a business in Ireland has been quite the learning curve, setting up new booking systems, new Irish bank accounts and new web pages on our websites!”

Carley and Ciara take great delight in the overall client experience, asking themselves: “How do our clients feel when they leave our salon?” With hundreds of five-star reviews for the Manchester salon, it is evident Carley and Ciara truly value their clients and their opinions. To differentiate themselves from other salons, the pair endeavoured to: “Create a certain feel and vibe for the clients to feel amazing when they leave.”

Looking ahead, the dream for Boombae is to fill the salon to capacity and create a waiting list, while making sure every stylist chair is occupied to create a lively and joyful atmosphere.

@boombaeuk

With more than 50 applications for positions, the salon had no trouble filling its vacancies in Dublin.

Optimising Emotional Wellness

Mental health is a part of everyone’s life and, even though you can’t see it, it’s equally as important as physical health. Poor mental health can significantly impact staff and clients within salons. We hear from industry professionals on how to navigate mental wellbeing in this environment.

Atrip to the beautician or hairdresser is more than a service for many. It is a chance to offload and a safe space to talk. With hair and beauty industry professionals being renowned for their compassion and customercentric approach, they are appropriately positioned to listen and provide support. However, with this in mind, how does the additional load translate when it comes to your own employees’ mental health? With the hope of striking a suitable, industry experts and mental health charities are on hand to discuss how to support staff and clients’ wellbeing simultaneously.

Sarah Todd and Sam Arnold, Co-

Clients talk more openly to beauty therapists because they are in a safe and caring environment.

Founders of Chats and Cuts, lead an initiative hoping to empower hairdressers and barbers to “Connect, Listen and Signpost” young clients during the course of a haircut. With most lifelong mental health issues beginning in childhood, according to Action for Children, a gentle but meaningful chat during a haircut can support younger clients in a myriad of ways. Sarah and

Sam describe beauty professionals as “Trusted adults and natural listeners”, and continue to explain that said professionals are “Uniquely positioned to listen and provide a positive, supportive response to their young clients, by giving them a safe space to talk and develop self-worth.”

Within a salon environment, the lack of eye contact encourages people to

open up and talk more freely, and, as David Toland, Director of Mind the Gap, suggested, “Clients talk more openly to beauty therapists because they are in a safe and caring environment.”

Continuing with this idea, David added that the beauty industry as a whole has the ability to offer support to those who may be in early need of assistance, saying, “Having an environment where people already feel able to talk freely, it makes absolute sense to offer optional training to help recognise early signs and signpost to other ongoing professional support, if appropriate.”

It’s often noted that individuals share with beauty professionals things they wouldn’t necessarily share with others. With this in mind, professionals must be suitably equipped to respond. Sarah and Sam advise that beauty professionals shouldn’t turn into therapists, but should instead, “Know what the signs look like, and have the ability to have complex conversations if they come up, and knowing what to say in an empathetic response in terms of signposting and support.”

Hayley Jepson, also known as The Resilient Hairdresser, a mental health coach for the hair industry, acknowledged that, “Not everybody has the capacity to be the bridge for other people’s mental health.” In light of this, Hayley continued to explain that voluntary training needs to be available for salon staff, including a focus on, “Signposting people to the appropriate place, learning how to redirect difficult, and not taking on your client’s problems when you don’t have the emotional capacity.”

With the inevitability of clients sharing personal information in the industry, professionals need to be equipped to avoid or move conversations on as they see fit, to support employee and client wellbeing simultaneously. Thus, the notion of a Mental Health First Aider could be extremely beneficial in a salon environment. Hayley noted, “Providing beauty professionals with the ability to have someone feel supported, while removing the responsibility from yourself.” Sarah and Sam share this belief, as they highlighted, “Through Mental Health First Aid England, our primary intention is to ensure as many salons and barbershops as possible have a Mental Health First Aider for children

Encourage people to talk, avoid making assumptions and respect confidentiality.

and young people,” raising awareness of the complexity of the issue.

Wellbeing must start from within. With beauty salons often seen as the embodiment of wellbeing, salons must mirror this towards staff, and being open about mental health in a compassionate yet positive way is crucial for managers. Sophia Hilton, founder of Not Another Salon and Not Another Academy, supported this notion as she shared, “Actively showing examples of how to look after your wellbeing is the best way to encourage your team to also take

these routes.” For example, share with your team how you are managing your anxiety as part of a staff briefing. Sonia Magnier, Founder of Sonia Magnier Business and Wellbeing Coaching, furthered the idea of having leaders who are committed to advocating wellbeing, and noted, “Bringing mindfulness into the salon supports everyone. Just as we learn the skills of our craft, we can learn wellbeing practices that complement the overall client experience.”

To improve employee wellbeing, leading by example is an excellent start,

but open communication is equally vital.

Looking after an employee’s mental health can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be complex or incur a high cost. Andrew Berrie, Head of Workplace Wellbeing at Mind, shared three steps for supporting mental health, saying, “Encourage people to talk, avoid making assumptions and respect confidentiality.” By making mental health a less taboo topic in your salon, employees will become aware that you’re there for them when the time is right. Andrew Berrie further noted, “The Mind Mental Health at Work Commitment is a great place to start for improving employee wellbeing, helping to bridge the gap between the silence surrounding mental health issues and seeking help.”

Hayley supported the idea of making mental health a less taboo topic among staff through “closer contact and more regular check-ins.” With an employment history in both hairdressing and psychotherapy, Hayley stressed the importance of wellbeing check-ins with staff that aren’t solely business-focused, for salon owners to begin to understand what they could do in order to aid employees’ mental health.

We can learn wellbeing practices that complement the overall client experience.

With beauty salons supporting client and employee wellbeing simultaneously, this has the ability to yield greater business benefits. David explained that creating such an ethos can provide hidden benefits for salons. “In looking after staff’s mental health and wellbeing, you increase staff retention levels and recruitment is easier,” shared David. This idea was furthered by Sonia, as she shared how promoting mental health and wellbeing support in a salon has the ability to, “Enhance a positive work environment, improve employee morale, reduce stress and enhance overall job satisfaction.” Prioritising mental health for your staff can contribute to a more compassionate and happy team. Healthy employees are more likely to reach their full potential, which in turn enables the business to flourish.

Establishments that show deep care for their clients further enhance their

reputation in the community. As David explained, “Clients value the relationship they create as much as the products they can buy,” in turn leading to increased customer retention through creating a hub in which people want to go and spend time.

The prevalent theme throughout here is the importance of training in order to successfully navigate client and employee wellbeing within a salon environment. With the introduction of ‘quiet appointments’ on the rise, for those who want to take a beauty treatment as time for themselves, it is inevitable that clients will continue to share with beauty therapists. Therapists by name and nature, but not always through choice; employees require adequate training and support to connect, listen, and signpost for issues they may not always have the emotional capacity for.

Workplace Wellbeing

Studies have shown companies that prioritise wellbeing outperform those that don’t. In light of this, we share 5 ways to maintain positive staff wellbeing in your salon.

Set Healthy Boundaries

Hair and beauty industry professionals are renowned for their compassion and customer-centric approach. However, when it comes to your employees’ mental health, listening to your clients’ problems can really take its toll. Setting healthy boundaries means your staff gets to decide what feels safe for them to talk about, and what hours to be available to clients.

Host Regular Check-ins

Organising proactive wellness check-ins is a positive way to recognise, stop and address mental health problems before they worsen. Regularly asking workers how they are doing is a good place to start. Establishing a secure area where people may freely communicate about any issues or worries they may be having contributes to a more inclusive workplace.

Integrate Your Wellness

Starting small, you should look for ways to integrate wellness initiatives into your day-to-day practice. By integrating wellness, you’re giving your staff the wellness benefits without the time costs, paving the way for them to change their routines. For example, standing for hours on end can lead to back and foot pain: introducing an ergonomic floor into your salon makes it more comfortable and less physically demanding for your staff.

Health is Wealth

Having a quiet place to rest in between clients is important for both physical and mental recharging. An area dedicated to your staff, equipped with fresh fruit, coffee and plenty of water, can help encourage team bonding and the sharing of tips, thoughts, and worries. A welcoming area means that staff will feel more comfortable and willing to take breaks to get physical recovery, in turn improving their performance at work.

Select Wellness Supporters

Sometimes, all it takes to have a positive impact on others is one person who is encouraging and helpful. These wellness advocates may motivate co-workers, run programmes and share wellness advice that works. Wellness advocates could, for example, encourage a stretching session at the beginning of the day, to give your team the chance to take a minute and breathe. These initiatives will inspire your team to engage and persevere.

Enhance and emphasise the eyes with Salon System’s dual formula Lash & Brow lift system. New improved formula.

Unveiling Speed and Comfort

Changing the game of the hair removal industry, we hear from Alma Lasers regarding the launch of their special edition Soprano Titanium, the fastest laser hair removal device, with a new breakthrough applicator.

Alma Lasers, a leading innovator in energy-based medical and aesthetic solutions, announces a gamechanger in the hair removal industry: the special edition Soprano Titanium. This upgraded platform delivers faster hair removal results in even fewer sessions while maintaining Soprano’s supreme comfort, redefining laser hair removal for both patients and practitioners.

Speed CompromiseWithout

Engineered for unparalleled efficiency, the special edition Soprano Titanium builds upon the award-winning platform’s existing leading technologies:

• SHR: This advancement in laser technology allows for more energy to be delivered in a virtually pain-free manner, covering areas such as the underarm in as little as 21 seconds. The in-motion technique ensures even coverage of hair reduction and is safe to use on all skin tones.

• 3D Simultaneous Lasing: Soprano’s diode laser combines the power of three laser wavelengths, ALEX, SPEED, and Nd:YAG (755nm, 810nm, and 1064 nm), to comprehensively target hair follicles across different depths at once, making it effective for all skin types.

• ICE Plus™: Each applicator has an icecold tip, continuously cooling the dermis to -3 degrees as you glide across the skin. This ensures effective and comfortable treatments for your patients without the need for additional cooling methods.

• SmartClinic: Get 24/7 access to live data and analytics on system performance and treatment efficiency to ensure your device is constantly running to its full potential.

Introducing Trio MAX: The Speed Demon of Applicators

The true revolution lies in the Trio MAX applicator, boasting a 4cm2 spot size with improved high fluence mode, which delivers more total energy into the skin than ever before! More power means quicker results, shorter treatment times, and fewer treatments in total. In fact, the new special edition Soprano Titanium can reduce treatment times by 20%. Despite the increase in power, the patient is kept calm and cool with the addition of the patented ICE Plus™ cooling system, maximising patient satisfaction.

The special edition Soprano Titanium is the key to the next level in laser hair removal for your business. Faster and more powerful treatments shorten appointment times and reduce the number of treatments, making them perfect for busy clients. Fostering longlasting relationships with happy clients will grow your business through positive word-of-mouth recommendations!

Get in touch with Alma to maximise your business success with the new special edition Soprano Titanium.

www.almalasers.co.uk @alma.lasers.international

INTRODUCING

Still treats all skin types

Still virtually pain free

NOW officially the Fastest

Sound at Your Service

In this exclusive editorial with Sonos, we explore the importance of embracing emotional retailing and the opportunities their custom systems offer to a salon business.

As salon businesses harness the power pf behavioural economics, how can working with Sonos help create emotions that can help drive sales?

Sonos create a sensory experience through sound, to foster an emotional connection with customers, brand recall and loyalty. Music and sound is the foundation for creating ambiance and keeping customers coming back for more - a recent study revealed that 90% of consumers are more likely to revisit a business that creates a sensory experience with music, visuals and scents, and 78% of consumers cite “an enjoyable store atmosphere” as a key factor in choosing brick-and-mortar over ecommerce.

Why should salons choose Sonos sound systems opposed to others on the market?

Sonos is known for delivering sound experiences that awaken our emotions. As a consumer brand, we’ve seen tremendous success by building products that deliver immersive sound, an easy experience, thoughtful design, and access to all the content people know and love.

What inspired you to design products for salon sound systems?

There’s demand for sound experiences beyond the home - we’ve already seen an incredible amount of organic growth for Sonos in commercial spaces, unveiling a massive opportunity for our brand to deliver a custom sound solution designed for businesses.

How have you adapted the sound system to suit a commercial setting?

We’re launching Sonos Pro, a new flexible software as a service (SaaS) offering that makes it easy for businesses to deliver great sound across each of their locations. Sonos’ software service for businesses offers remote system management, commercially-licensed music, personalised support, and more. The service works seamlessly with a business’ existing Sonos hardware to fill any space with immersive sound.

Every salon space is different, how are Sonos solutions designed to suit all room sizes?

The Sonos portfolio offers a complete listening solution for the home and beyond, with products to suit all room sizes and listening needs. From immersive Dolby Atmos home theater set-ups to market-leading smart speakers, connected audio components that drive third-party amplifiers or passive speakers and our own architectural solutions for indoors and out as well as portable companions that work wherever you take them and connect right back into the system when they return. Most importantly, Sonos is a system. Our products work individually and seamlessly together. They are built to easily integrate into customers’ homes and lifestyles.

How does Sonos look to evolve in the future?

We make great hardware, but it’s our platform – our software and our partners – that keeps the system and experience getting better over time. We continue to innovate, creating unique experiences to serve our customers, from the recently launched Sonos Voice Control that gives customers a friction-free privacy-first control of their music and their Sonos system to our free-touse streaming radio platform, Sonos Radio. Sonos is committed to an open platform. We want customers to listen to the audio content they want, from the streaming services they prefer, and to control it the way they want whether it’s from our app, a partner app, touch panel or voice control.

This of course extends to partner solutions for the smart home where our open APIs allow integrators to

connect Sonos into larger smart home installations.

What is the latest news from Sonos?

Extending the highly successful Sonos Architectural line of passive speakers, we unveiled an 8” In-Ceiling Speaker with bold new sound and stunning performance. Elegant and simple to install, the 8” In-Ceiling Speaker sets a high-performance standard for architectural speakers. Providing customers with a new size option that sits discreetly within the ceiling and delivers powerful, balanced, and clear sound for those looking for a bespoke audio solution within Salon’s. The speaker is available in white for a discreet match with a wide range of ceilings and, thanks to a specially developed steel grille, can be painted to meet the customisation needs of every client.

The Mane Event

Founded over 30 years ago and available in over 60 countries, we hear from Great Lengths to learn how to embrace the transformative power of hair extensions to prioritise client well-being.

In an industry where beauty and confidence intertwine, Great Lengths is taking a pioneering stance on client wellbeing by championing the transformative power of hair extensions. Founded in Rome, Italy, in 1992, Great Lengths has become synonymous with unparalleled quality and innovation, making them a global leader in the hair extension industry.

At the heart of Great Lengths’ success is their unwavering commitment to quality, exemplified by major scientific inventions such as the introduction of the first ultrasonic machine. The journey begins in India, where Great Lengths ethically and responsibly sources their hair, ensuring traceability throughout the entire process. “It signifies our commitment to constant growth and change, aligning ourselves with a global network of companies dedicated to manufacturing products through a sustainable business model,” says Joscelin McCourt, CEO of HB Collective, home of Great Lengths.

Made from premium 100% human hair, Great Lengths hair extensions are the perfect solution for building confidence by achieving the hair of your clients’ dreams, whether it’s with length, volume, or colour. Customised and with the choice of two premium application methods, GL Pre-Bonded extensions or GL Tapes, and a range of over 90 colours, including Natural, Rooted, Piano, or the Fashion Colour range, there really is something for everyone!

Beverley Rosser, owner of Great Lengths Elite Salon, Rosser Hairdressing in Liverpool, shared, “I understand the importance of well-being and self-care in today’s world. Whether it’s addressing hair thinning or creating a more voluminous look, I can skilfully place eyelash fine strands in areas that clients never thought possible, particularly focusing on the front areas commonly affected by hair loss.” Recognising that a visit to the salon transcends more than

just a new look, Rosser acknowledges its therapeutic potential. Great Lengths stylists comprehend the profound impact of a haircut or extension application on mental wellbeing.

What sets Great Lengths apart is not just their commitment to quality but also their dedication to social responsibility. As champions of ethical and superiorquality hair, Great Lengths proudly collaborates with the Little Princess Trust, a children’s charity. This partnership enables extension wearers to make a difference by donating used Great Lengths hair, which is then transformed

into wigs, restoring the confidence of young people facing hair loss due to cancer treatment or other conditions.

Great Lengths UK and Ireland have supported the Little Princess Trust for nine years, with hair donations from celebrities like Luba Mushtuk, Dianne Buswell, and Hofit Golan. The exclusivity of this partnership underscores Great Lengths’ premium quality and ethical practices, making it the only hair extension brand accepted by the Little Princess Trust.

Joscelin McCourt shared, “Great Lengths is proud to be associated with

the Little Princess Trust. Our commitment to ethicality and hair quality ensures that only Great Lengths hair extensions are accepted by the charity, due to being 100% natural hair, and it’s our way of giving back and making a positive impact on the lives of children and young people.”

As salons incorporate Great Lengths hair extensions into their offerings, they prioritise client wellbeing and embrace the brand’s ethos of quality, innovation, and social responsibility. By providing comprehensive training and support to stylists, Great Lengths ensures that every client receives not only premium-quality extensions but also expert care and attention to detail.

Additionally, Great Lengths recognises the importance of ongoing research and development to meet evolving client needs and industry standards. Through collaborations with scientists, hair experts, and trendsetters, Great Lengths stays ahead of the curve, introducing cutting-edge techniques and products that redefine beauty standards.

Great lengths have always championed hair extensions as the ideal way to bring out natural beauty, regardless of age. A few carefully placed Great Lengths hair extensions through the sides of the hair can add subtle volume to hair that is thinning. If your client’s hair has become broken and brittle from colouring or heated appliances, Great Lengths extensions can help disguise any damage and give them renewed confidence.

Joscelin McCourt, CEO of Great Lengths, shared, “Extensions are about showcasing the best version of you. Some of the most loyal wearers of Great Lengths hair extensions don’t always fit the stereotypes of “extension wearers,” and it’s something that the brand is immensely proud of! We are here to build our clients’ confidence and create a voice for all!”

With a focus on quality, innovation, and social impact, Great Lengths continues to inspire confidence and empower individuals to embrace their unique beauty, one extension at a time.

Interested in becoming a Great Lengths certified stylist? Please email sales@greatlengthshair.co.uk or call +44 (0) 113 278 1292.

@greatlengthsuk

Supporting and Educating

We hear from the Federation of Holistic Therapists Vice President and CEO of the NHBF, Caroline Larissey, to understand the importance of regulation and accreditation in the beauty industry and how the Federation of Holistic Therapists supports this.

Please introduce the Federation of Holistic Therapists and what they try to achieve?

For over 60 years, the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT) has been a driving force in maintaining high standards in therapy education and practice in the UK. Now, holding over 10,000 members worldwide, the FHT continues to fly the flag for professional holistic therapists within the sector, accepting over 350 therapies. Being the largest professional association for beauty, sports and complementary therapists, the FHT is the association of choice for professional therapists, as well as those starting out or teaching.

What does a FHT membership provide?

Comprehensive FHT membership and insurance packages have been designed to help you get ahead as a therapist, ensuring that you’re covered with an insurance policy that keeps you and your clients safe. Suitable memberships are available for everyone, regardless if you are at the start of your career, a qualified therapist looking for development, or are slowing down and wishing to just keep in touch with the therapist community.

What is the importance of regulating qualifications?

Unfortunately, there are numerous black market, non-accredited education and training providers in the beauty industry. Said training can be very expensive, misleading, provide little knowledge or skill, and may not meet insurance requirements. Regulating qualifications is the benchmark required by the sector

and insurance providers to demonstrate professional competence to work within the industry.

How does the FHT support

PersonalContinuedDevelopment?

Once a beauty professional has completed a regulated qualification at the correct level for their job role, they will continue to develop their skills, knowledge, and competency levels. As techniques and client requirements change, the professionals in the beauty sector will train, adapt, and learn while working to ensure they are up-to-date and meeting business needs. It must be clear that a Continued Personal Development (CPD) course is not a qualification; instead, it enables a practitioner to study further and provides additional breadth and depth of learning. As part of a training provider centre approval, an awarding organisation will complete a site approval and ongoing monitoring via an external verification process.

What education does the FHT provide?

The FHT provide a whole range of CPD and further education courses that allow their members to continue their education at a discounted rate. These courses are run by FHT themselves, as well as hundreds of Accredited Course Providers. The FHT is thrilled to introduce the Student Therapist Education Programme (STEP), a new online programme tailored specifically for students, running from March 4th-15th

www.fht.org.uk

Caroline Larissey

Premium Quality Hair Extensions

Does your salon need a hair extension provider that covers all your customers needs? Rapunzel of Sweden can offer your salon custom made solutions with our wide range of high-quality human hair extensions and new innovative products. We have over 75 shades, different color techniques and all of the popular methods. Allow your customers to find the perfect match with our great selection of hair products.

Contact us for more information business@rapunzel.com

www.rapunzelofsweden.com

Business

Five Minutes With...

Kerry Curl, a renowned business coach specialising in marketing and sales strategies for the hair and beauty industry, shares how to create innovative content ideas for salons, offering insightful perspectives to help businesses thrive.

In 2024, why would you want to look like every other salon owner out there? It’s time to spice things up! You’ll not only captivate your audience but also position yourself as a personable individual in this ever-competitive industry.

Here are five engagement examples, following the framework of hook, value, and invitation, that will not only capture the attention of your audience but also turn those followers into all-important paying hair and beauty clients.

Hook 1: The No. 1 reason your gel nail polish is chipping and what you can do about it.

Value: We’ve all been there, and the culprit might not be what you think. We’re addressing the #1 reason your gel polish is chipping and, more importantly, sharing our expert tips on how to maintain that flawless finish you deserve. The primary reason for gel polish chipping off prematurely often lies in the nail preparation process.

We recommend cleansing the nails thoroughly to remove any oils or residue and dehydrate the nail surface. Invitation: If you’re looking for an experienced nail technician, you’re in the right place!

Hook 2: The secret to the perfect wax before your appointment.

Value: Ever wondered why some waxing sessions leave you with smoother, longer-lasting results? The unsung hero of a perfect wax treatment is undeniably exfoliation. Preparing your skin through exfoliation is key to achieving the silkysmooth results you crave.

Invitation: If you’re looking for the perfect wax, book here!

Hook 3: How do we properly make sure your hair extensions stay put?

Value: The secret to undetectable and secure extensions lies in the details. We meticulously section your hair and strategically place each extension. This

not only enhances the aesthetics but also contributes to the longevity of the extension hold.

Invitation: Do you find yourself searching for great hair every day? Send me a DM!

Hook 4: My brow clients go crazy for this...

Value: Our clients can’t get enough of our Brow Maintenance Kits. To keep your brows looking flawless between appointments, we provide an exclusive Brow Maintenance Kit, enabling you to maintain your brow perfection at home. Invitation: Have a brows, DM us to book!

Hook 5: Why bother with a lash lift?

Value: A lash lift gives your lashes a natural-looking curl, opening your eyes and creating a more refreshed appearance. If you’re someone looking to streamline your morning routine, a lash lift can help!

Invitation: Perfect lashes don’t happen by chance; they happen by appointment!

@kerrycurlcoaching

Academy of Beauty Training

Choose from beginners to advanced Fast Track Insurance Backed courses and or systems, using the latest technology, giving your clients/patients the best results possible which includes your First Years Beauty Insurance FREE OF CHARGE

Also VTCT Fast Track in Beauty, Diode Laser

We also offer 5 * Accommodation within the same grounds as the academy.

Includes your First Years FREE Insurance to work legally on legally on paying clients.

• FREE Training on our professional systems

• Free Delivery and installment of your system

• 24 Months warranty and Extended warranty

• Full Business Plan & Marketing package

We offer the latest state-of-the-art systems in our Laser & Aesthetic Collection.

Our Superior professional systems use the latest technology which are user friendly with easy to operate touch screens, ensuring excellent results and complete comfort for your clients/patients, making these systems the complete solution for your business.

Also Finance available on any system

We pay for your first three months up to £750 towards your finance which enables you to grow your business from day one.

Free Government approved set of 30 Local Rules, Regulations, Policies and Procedures for Laser & IPL Systems personalised for your business.

Your Hair, Our Passion

Born out of a desire to do things differently, we hear from salon-exclusive Swedish haircare brand Nine Yards about the perfect balance of functionality and natural ingredients in their products.

Please introduce us to Nine Yards

Nine Yards is a genuinely salon exclusive premium Swedish haircare brand born from a desire to do things differently, it took 5 years to formulate and it’s the perfect balance of functionality and natural ingredients. 100% free from parabens, sulphates and MIT amongst other unnecessary ingredients, these highly concentrated vegan miracle workers contain potent natural goodies including Shea Butter, Damask Rose Oil, Broccoli Seed Oil, Aloe Vera, Wheat Protein, Meadowfoam oil, Argan and Sunflower seed extract.

The gorgeous bottles have bagged a Gold award at the World Brand Design Society and clients absolutely love the way they look, while the products themselves have gained accolades in the Grazia Hair Awards; Beauty Bible Awards; Veggie Awards; Hair Awards and Swedish Beauty Awards.

What makes Nine Yards stand out?

Nine Yards supports the professional hairdresser and works hard to keep the brand off of discount websites, meaning salon owners can have confidence in repeat business. An e-commerce website for our stockists is also in development, shipping directly to the client from the warehouse.

Please explain the benefits of the vegan formula

We don’t see any reason for products not to be vegan nowadays. Vegan formulas are more ethical and sustainable, and clients take pride in knowing the products used are crueltyfree. Nine Yards products are packed with thoroughly considered ingredients,

chosen for their natural potency. For example, broccoli seed oil, famed for its high concentration of potent antioxidants, was an essential ingredient in our moist range. Broccoli Seed Oil mimics the initial effects of silicones naturally without the negative buildup while nourishing the scalp and hair.

What Nine Yards products would you recommend?initially

The beauty of Nine Yards is that it’s a compact range with no products that duplicate, so they’re all bestsellers because they all have a clear role. This is echoed in our award wins, which span everything from shampoos and conditioners to treatments and styling

products. So, fine-haired clients will be hooked if you use the Go Loud and Big Noise volume shampoo and conditioner at the backwash; they’re lightweight but leave the hair feeling soft and smooth. Curl clients will adore the Moist range and Curl cream.

How can our readers work with you?

Contact us through Instagram, @sbshairltd, or our website to find out about our extra perks, including a reward scheme for you and your team with exclusive savings from major brands such as Apple and Deliveroo.

www.sbs-hair.com/trade-registration-form

Sustainable Solutions

Are you looking at becoming a more environmentally friendly salon? With the beauty industry estimated to generate about 421,000 pounds of waste daily, there is no better time to help protect our planet.

Everyone’s trying harder to reduce their environmental footprint, whether it’s using a bag for life, reducing meat consumption or organising recycling correctly. However, when it comes to the beauty industry, what can be done to continue improving sustainability?

Due to the amount of perishable waste items, like cotton wool, plastic product bottles, towels and tissues, the business as a whole has a high carbon footprint. Despite this, salons have a special opportunity to impact mainstream practices and be a potent driver for environmental change. In contrast to other businesses, salons can become environmental advocates by teaching their clientele about ethical and/or ecofriendly products and practices.

We share some tips on how to do your bit to help the environment.

Ditch the Disposables

As a salon, are you disposing of products that could be used again and again and again? Instead of disposing of tools after each client, add a few pounds to your clients’ first appointment to provide them with a packet of their ‘personal’ tools to reuse at subsequent appointments.

Refilling Instead of Recycling

Recycling comes at the end of a product’s life, but it’s important to look at closing the loop to reduce packaging and product waste. Refill stations help salons stand out as the go-to place for eco-friendly services, increase customer loyalty, and cater to customers who are adopting more environmentally conscious lifestyles.

Save your Energy

In a salon, lighting is essential for your employees to perform their duties and work with accuracy, showcasing their talents. Though the initial cost of energysaving bulbs is usually higher, the longterm savings, lower energy consumption and reduced maintenance and replacement costs make the investment worthwhile.

Set Realistic Goals

Examine your salon internally, ascertain your spending plan, and determine how you will carry out the modifications. To

make your goals more attainable, start small. If a bigger budget is needed, develop a longer-term plan to develop your salon.

Educate your Team

Talk openly with your staff about the value of sustainability in your salon. Urge employees to turn off the water in between treatments and to switch off electronics when not in use. Encourage employees or clients to make their own modest suggestions; after all, people are more likely to follow through on a change if they have a say in it!

Phorest Salon Owners Summit

Irish-founded Phorest Salon Software marks its 20th year of supporting the global hair and beauty industry by hosting Europe’s premier growth-driven event, “The Salon Owners Summit,” attracting an audience from the best and brightest of the hair, beauty, and medi-aesthetics industries to Dublin.

Phorest Salon Software was born on the salon floor and bred to help owners and their teams thrive. Founded by CEO Ronan Perceval in Dublin, Ireland, in 2004, Phorest has earned recognition as one of the fastest-growing technology companies in the hair and beauty industry and is honoured among the Deloitte Fast 50. Phorest serves nearly 10,000 businesses globally and over 160,000 beauty professionals across 11 regions. In the United States, Phorest is proud to be the most popular software among Salon Today’s Top 200 winners.

Taking place in the Royal Dublin Convention Centre, the Salon Owners Summit attracted over 600 salon owners from the global salon business community across the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia, Finland, Germany, and the Netherlands. Positioned as Europe’s premier growth-driven event for the hair, beauty, and medi-aesthetic industries, the two days were curated

to be inspirational, educational, and immersive, bringing together a diverse group of speakers to talk about the latest industry trends, opportunities, and new Phorest technology innovations for salon owners across the globe.

Founder, CEO, and host of the event Ronan Perceval stated: “The Salon Owners Summit represents everything we are truly passionate about at Phorest and reinforces why I fell in love with this industry 20 years ago. To have our customers, partners, and industry speakers in one room and celebrate, share, and network together is electric. We also invited over 100 members of our own Phorest team to be at this event, immersing themselves in the experience, spending quality time with our customers, and soaking up valuable customer insights, needs, and ambitions for 2024. Our mission is to empower and inspire our customers to grow fantastic businesses while attracting and delighting loyal clients and talented staff. There is no better way to improve our product and customer experience than to stay connected to our customers, so we can remain laser-focused on

continually innovating our product and serving their business needs. This event celebrates the courage and camaraderie of this industry and promotes thought leadership. I am so proud of what we have achieved collectively to date and excited for what’s still to come.”

The line-up of diverse speakers kicked off with David Meade, an award-winning researcher and speaker who delivered a high-energy and collaborative session on Growth Mindset, focusing on how soft skills like body language and implementing small changes to your business can help you succeed.

Sharmadean Reid, MBE entrepreneur, founder of WAH Nails, and the women’s empowerment platform, The Stack World, delivered an impactful keynote on “Finding the Human Story in the Data.” Sharmadean focused on ensuring salon owners utilise their all-important data from clients and even set homework to create the ideal customer persona for

teams to embrace.

US industry leader Geno Stampora and Nina Tulio, an esteemed Californiabased salon business mentor, joined the stage to deliver motivational and inspirational talks to equip attendees with all the tools needed to kickstart the year ahead. Sharing their own journey of gender transition, PhorestFM host Alex Bélisle-Springer calls for salon and spa owners to reflect on the supportive role their businesses can play for their clients, while Phorests’ own Rich Cullen and Verna Wall captured and shared “Success Stories from the Salon Floor,” highlighting creative ideas and best practices from around the globe.

The celebrations wrapped up with a mind-blowing interactive performance by renowned TV hypnotist, mentalist, and brain hacker Keith Barry titled “Beyond Words,” focusing on how natural language processing uses thoughts, feelings, and language to understand

your team and customers.

The two-day programme also comprised workshops focusing on social media, Phorest Software Development, Medi-Aesthetics Software Developments, the Art of Getting Things Done, Salon Sustainability Solutions and Tipping Legislation Insights. Phorest also welcomed event partner Vish, the cutting-edge colour management software, to the 2024 show, while also raising awareness of the official industry charity, Hair & Beauty Charity.

Guests also enjoyed networking evening programmes, including the high-octane and hilariously fun Bingo Lingo dance and games night. Plus, as an event first, guests also got to enjoy the artwork from local Irish artist Amanda Jane Graham, which celebrates the rich and fantastic history behind the hairdressing profession.

www.salonownersummit.com

Making Socials Simple

Running a competition on Instagram can be a game-changer for salons looking to boost their online presence and attract new clients. This month, Simply Hair’s social media expert Brad Williams, shares how to master Instagram competitions.

With strategic planning and execution, competitions can captivate audiences, drive engagement, and translate into increased foot traffic and revenue. Here’s how to run a successful Instagram completion, market it effectively, and follow up for maximum impact.

Mastering Competitions:Instagram A Salon’s Guide to Social Success

Define Your Objectives: Begin by setting clear goals for your competition. Whether it’s increasing brand awareness, growing your Instagram following, or promoting a specific service or product, having a defined objective will guide your strategy and metrics for success. Choose the Right Prize: Select prizes that resonate with your target audience and align with your salon. Consider offering free haircuts, styling sessions, or product bundles to entice participants and showcase your expertise.

Craft Compelling Content:

Create visually appealing posts that highlight the prizes, convey the excitement of the competition, and showcase your salon’s unique selling points. Use high-quality images, engaging captions, and relevant hashtags to attract attention and encourage participation.

Instagram account, tagging friends, or sharing the competition in their stories. Ensure that the entry process is accessible to all participants and complies with Instagram’s guidelines.

Set Clear Entry Requirements: Define straightforward entry requirements such as liking the post, following your salon’s

Cross Channel Marketing: Extend the reach of your competition by promoting it on all social media channels, website and email. Utilise Instagram stories,

posts and reels to generate a buzz. Collaborate with influencers or local businesses to attract a broader audience.

Engage with Participants: Actively engage with participants throughout the competition by responding to comments, answering questions, and reposting user-generated content. Encourage participants to share their entries and spread the word to their networks, increasing visibility and engagement.

Announce the Winners Publicly: Once the competition concludes, announce the winners publicly on Instagram, expressing gratitude to all for their participation. Consider sharing highlights from the competition and showcasing user-generated content to foster a sense of community and excitement.

Follow Up with Exclusive Offers: Capitalise on the momentum generated by the competition by following up with exclusive offers or promotions for all participants. This could include discounts on services or products, special packages for new clients, or loyalty rewards for existing customers.

Ultimately, running a competition on Instagram can be a powerful strategy for hair salons to boost engagement, attract new clients, and strengthen their online presence. By defining clear objectives, choosing enticing prizes, crafting compelling content, and actively engaging with participants, salons can maximise the impact of their competitions and drive tangible results for their business.

Editor’s Day Out

Our editor visited the Dyson Research and Innovation Campus in Malmesbury, for a wonderful two days of meeting engineers, scientists and stylists to hear all about the latest in Dyson beauty innovations.

An abundance of limestone walls and a breath of pure air—could I be describing anywhere else but the Cotswolds? In January, I was whisked off to Malmesbury to go behind the scenes and learn in depth about product innovation in the beauty industry. Home to Dyson HQ, Malmesbury has evolved into a vast technology campus spread across 50 acres. The property is a base for thousands of employees who spend their days strategising, inventing and spreading the Dyson story around the world. Employees here are encouraged to think differently, make mistakes and truly challenge convention to bring about the best innovation has to offer.

The media day commenced with a welcome dinner with Dyson Pro ambassadors and fellow ambassadors. Dinner was served under a lightening jet hanging from the ceiling; does it get much cooler than that? The jet is one of multiple examples of inspirational engineering around the Malmesbury Campus.

It doesn’t stop there; the entirety of the three-course meal was grown on Dyson’s

very own farm, one of the UK’s largest farming operations. With technology and innovation lying at the heart of modern farming, the symbiotic relationship between Dyson Farming and Dyson Technology provides the ability to yield new approaches and drive sustainability and performance. James Dyson shared,

“Agriculture holds many of the keys to our future. Sustainable food production and food security are vital to the nation’s health and economy.”

To finish the evening and end the speculation about what was being released, the Dyson Supersonic r™ professional hair dryer was unveiled. Being among the first group of people to ever see the Supersonic r™ felt incredible, and witnessing the reception from professional stylists felt electric. As the first day ended, the excitement built to get hands-on and really understand the new Supersonic r™.

The second day commenced with a technology deep dive into the Supersonic r™, understanding how Dyson aims to solve problems that others ignore. This was followed by visits to a wide range of Dyson labs; from robots straightening hair to 3D printers creating prototypes, we really covered it all. For me, the highlight was the insight into the anechoic chamber, an acoustic lab in layman’s terms, searching

for the perfect balance between sound and performance. Who knew so much thought and detail went into a hairdryer?

With styling masterclasses from Dyson ambassadors and professional stylists, we spent the afternoon getting to grips with the Dyson Supersonic r™ professional hair dryer. Personally, I left the styling to the pros, as I can assure you nobody wanted to see me attempt a bouncy blow! Putting the new product through its paces and using the attachments for a multitude of hair types really highlighted the quietness of the product within a salon environment. It felt alien and revolutionary to be able to hold a conversation with 10’s of hairdryers around me!

After the styling masterclass, a Q&A was held with James Dyson himself! The Q&A made it evident that creating Dyson’s most responsive hairdryer yet came from a place of care and understanding. Having professional stylists and salon owners at the forefront of planning helped Dyson understand how products can stand up in a professional environment. In true Dyson fashion, James then opened the floor to criticisms and suggestions in order to continue serving the beauty industry with solutions to their issues.

The day ended at Hullavington, Dyson’s second UK technology campus, located on a former Royal Air Force base. Being home to the Research, Design and Development labs, Hullavington is a hub for innovation. As such a crucial space for shaping the future of Dyson, security was paramount, highlighted by being only the second external group to ever visit the sight! A significant takeaway for me throughout the two days was how truly passionate employees were about their roles, and the pride they all took in showcasing their work.

Leaving the event, I felt overwhelmed with gratitude that I had the privilege of experiencing Dyson innovation firsthand. All I kept repeating to myself was, “This much work goes into a hair dryer!” as, quite frankly, I couldn’t believe the in-depth research and ingenuity that went into developing one product. Not for lack of trying, but my ability to sum up these two days might fall a little short. The best way I tried to describe it to friends was like being in real life Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!

Product Spotlight

Introducing the Dyson Supersonic r™ Professional hair dryer for professional styling. A revolutionary ‘r’ curve hair dryer, available exclusively for professional stylists.

Dyson engineers continue to push the boundaries of innovation in beauty, and on February 8th, they unveiled an entirely new format hair dryer backstage at New York Fashion Week.

The Dyson Supersonic r™ Professional hair dryer is Dyson’s lightest, smallest, and most precise styling tool, enabled by power-dense technologies. The Dyson Hyperdymium™ motor and intelligent Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) sensors in each attachment communicate with the hair dryer, automatically adjusting the motor and heater to deliver optimal airflow and temperature.

Dyson engineers were tasked with creating the smallest hair dryer with the most powerful precision. This meant doubling down on core technology, particularly heater technology, motor performance, and attachments—reengineering a machine to deliver precision for professionals in an entirely new form factor. The Dyson Supersonic r ™ is 30% smaller, 20% lighter, and more manoeuvrable, delivering fast drying, smoother, shinier, and fizz-free results.

An Industry-wide problem

Since 2017, Dyson has surveyed and interviewed 696 stylists to understand their environment, habits, and needs. A stylist will typically see between 4 and 16 clients per day, spending on average 30 to 60 minutes styling per client. As a result, strain-related injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome are highly prevalent across the stylist community. These insights informed the development of the Dyson Supersonic r™, providing professionals with an agile and adaptive tool that responds to real-world demands while delivering a superior styling experience.

New Ergonomic Format

The Dyson Supersonic r™ is ergonomically designed in a revolutionary ‘r’ curve, weighing just 325 grams, less than the weight of a bottle of hairspray. The shape allows professionals to effortlessly reach where it is normally hard to reach with control and comfort.

Streamlined Flow Heater for Even Heat

Dyson’s heater technology is the first

Dyson curved heater in a hair dryer, made of symmetrical foils that form a suspended track. The high-pressure air through the unique curve heats the airflow more evenly, with no hotspots, meaning the user experiences increased evenness of temperature even when using attachments.

Achieving optimum heater performance while balancing weight and bulk was central to the development of the Dyson Supersonic r™. Due to the new shape dictating the design, engineers were tasked with re-engineering Dyson’s heater technology to reduce size yet increase performance and provide stylists with a lighter, more agile tool to combat common complaints within the stylist community.

Intelligent Heat Control

Just like the rest of Dyson’s hair care machines, the Dyson Supersonic r™ professional hair dryer, is equipped with intelligent heat control, measuring the air temperature over 20 times a second to prevent extreme heat damage and protect natural shine.

@dysonhairpro

EVA HYBRID NO MORE DISTINCTIONS BETWEEN BED, SHOWER AND FACE

- New revolutionary sunbed

- Runs on just 20 amps

- 75% cost savings compared to a regular sunbed • Collagen • Infrared

• UV Tanning

Chromotherapy

Exclusively available from Tecnosole Sales UK Limited

evasunbeds.co.uk

Next Generation of Salon Software

In this exclusive editorial, we hear from Sam Austin-Smith, CEO and Co-Founder of Floomly, a mission-based business ready to assist its customers in achieving their business and profit goals by alleviating business pain.

How would you describe Floomly?

Acting as so much more than a bookings software, the primary goal of Floomy isn’t to make bookings for salons; instead, it is to make businesses more streamlined, easy-to-run, and profitable while handling bookings super smoothly. As a family business with a history in hairdressing, Floomly is on the side of the hairdresser.

A business should reflect the founder and their values; it should be a combination of you and your dream customer, and that’s how I bring together my 20 years of hairdressing knowledge into the business. The intuitive design and straight-forward software used by Floomly satisfies my urge to do bigger things for others and to always see things from the other side.

What are you doing differently?

coming into the hairdressing industry, and we want salon owners and teams to benefit from their hard work in very real monetary terms. As such, we are giving salon businesses the tools to be more goal-focused and more profitable.

With Floomly, my personal mission is to change the way that software does business by shaking up the landscape and doing things from the perspective of a hairdresser. For example, a real annoyance for me is the way salons’ data is being held. If you want to exit from a software deal (including ours), it shouldn’t cost you more than a nominal amount to extract all of your data.

What is mission?Floomly’s

Our mission is to improve standards of living for teams. We want more people

It is such an exciting thought that we are helping salons do business better. As a family business with a background in hairdressing, we understand the challenges of real salons and strive to deliver solutions to them.

How are you keeping your industry connections?

We are sponsoring a 10-date business seminar tour of one of our business partners, The Fantastic Hairdresser, so head to our Instagram, @floomly, as we’ll be posting dates and locations around the UK to come and meet with salons. We are so excited for the tour and seeing Alan Austin-Smith share live solutions to

very real hairdressing issues like profit, recruitment, and the cost of running a business.

Alan will be sharing his incredible wisdom and solutions for hard-working salon leaders to make the change and benefit from it. Our sponsorship side of the tour will be a Floomly panel of fascinating speakers and motivators, and we’ll be revealing all, so follow us on Instagram to find out more.

@floomly

Navigating your Financial Future

Do you ever wonder if the state pension will suffice for a self-employed individual? We hear from Tina Renshaw at Renshaw Financial Planning for advice on how to plan for a more financially secure future and add value to the lives of others.

It is very important to note that relying solely on the state pension may not provide the desired standard of living in retirement. Taking proactive steps to save, invest, and plan for retirement will help ensure a more financially secure and fulfilling future.

The current full state pension for 2023/2024 is £203.85 per week, which is rising to £221.20 a week for 2024/2025; however, your state pension entitlement will normally be based on your own national insurance contributions.

To receive any state pension at all, you’ll need to have made or been credited with at least 10 years of qualifying contributions on your national insurance record. To receive the full state pension, it requires 35 years of qualifying contributions or credits, noting that periods of ‘contracting out’ may result in a less than full state pension even with 35 qualifying years.

Example:

• 35 years gives 35/35 x £203.85 = £203.85 a week.

• 30 years gives 30/35 x £203.85 = £174.73 a week.

• 10 years’ gives 10/35 x £203.85 = £58.24 a week.

You can check your national insurance record online by visiting www.gov.uk/ check-national-insurance-record.

Personal pensions offer a solution to this problem. Contributing to a personal pension can offer several benefits, with the key advantages being:

1. Tax relief on contributions: When contributing to a personal pension, you are able to claim tax relief on the contributions, meaning the government adds money to your pension pot based

upon your tax rate. For example, if you are a basic-rate taxpayer, for every £80 you contribute, the government adds £20, making a total contribution of £100. It’s important to note that tax relief is subject to annual limits on pension contributions, so it’s advisable to consult with a financial adviser or tax professional to ensure you make the most of the tax benefits available to you.

2. Tax-free growth: The money you contribute to your personal pension grows tax-free. This means that any investment gains or interest earned within your pension pot are not subject to income tax or capital gains tax.

3. Tax-free lump sum: When you reach the age of 55 (rising to 57 in 2028), you can typically take up to 25% of your pension pot as a tax-free lump sum. Ultimately, a personal pension offers a tax-efficient way to save for retirement, and the key to achieving a comfortable retirement is to save as much as you can, as soon as you can.

@renshaw_financial_planning

Say Oui to French Beauty

Bringing luxury French skincare to the UK, MATIS Paris has been creating professional, tailor-made beauty treatments for over 85 years. Combining product technicality and the art of movement, MATIS Paris is a contemporary brand with a traditional synthesis.

Built on the success of the French art of care, its unique personalised treatments, and its institute of experience, MATIS has successfully evolved with trends but always maintained character and ethos. Founded in 1936, Doctor Mavromati, a pharmacist who was an expert in ingredients and formulations, created his own laboratory. He discovered that products became more effective when combined with a holistic approach to skincare. As a pioneer, he understood that chemistry and science alone were not enough, and for a product to work effectively, it needed to be combined with sensory and emotional aspects. As he developed these ideas, Dr. Mavromati opened his first store in 1946 on Rue Fontaine.

MATIS believes in delivering high-tech products that are greener and cleaner without compromise. The Reponses (name of our product lines) developed draw on the most innovative, often exclusive, and always effective skin and planet-friendly ingredients. Containing formulas that are highly concentrated and results-driven, emphasising the most potent and precious active ingredients. These are wrapped in textures that are pleasurable to use and reflect the French tradition. When combined with professional treatments, they offer the most outstanding, visible, and lasting results. MATIS offers formulas adapted to every type of skin problem. Each “Réponse” is therefore unique and personalised, continuing the effectiveness of home skincare.

When you compare MATIS to other skin care companies, you will see a brand that cares about what goes into

their products, a brand that is constantly evolving to ensure it is up-to-date with knowing and delivering what the consumer is looking for. You also get a brand that is multi-functional, diverse, and easily combined to create bespoke treatments and personalised plans for your customers. The technology behind the brand ensures deliverance through a holistic application that cocoons every single client, every single time.

French Beauty Expert business support

is always available with a friendly team that works alongside our accounts as a big family. Marketing support is available in the form of videos, images, social media, motivational challenges, workshops, and educational events. Allocated business managers are dedicated to your business and much more.

Are you ready to find out more... Let’s connect.

@matis_paris

luxury human hair extensions

simplyhair.co.uk

As seen on the stars of the strictly come dancing arena tour

Great British Interiors

For over 100 years REM has helped to bring salons visions to life, establishing itself as a leading supplier of furniture and equipment. In this exclusive editorial, we hear from Denham Hair and Beauty studio, Guisborough, on their experience with working with REM.

For Emma Fletcher, the opening of Denham Hair and Beauty Studio was a turbulent eighteen months.

Renovating a 200-year-old building was no mean feat, with a plethora of hurdles to overcome. Despite this, the result is nothing short of fabulous, providing Guisborough with the most beautiful new salon for treatments, with the help and support of family and friends.

Denham Hair and Beauty Studio, shortlisted for the Best New Salon at the UK Hair and Beauty Awards 2024, offers a wide range of treatments, from balayage to HD Brows, working with brands such as L’Oréal, Kérastase, and The Gel Bottle

to provide excellent quality for clients.

The salon prides itself on providing exceptional customer service so that clients feel comfortable, taken care of, and at ease the moment they walk into the salon. With the growing trend of personal wellbeing in 2024, Emma noticed a considerable increase in clients attempting to take time for themselves in order to improve their wellness. In light of this trend, the salon environment makes every effort to foster a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

When designing Denham Hair and Beauty Studio, Emma wanted to keep the salon modern, unisex, and streamline to ensure that it’s visually pleasing and

comfortable all in one. For Emma, using REM was non-negotiable due to their great quality and hard-wearing furniture.

Choosing a colour palette that echoed timeless beauty was vital in the design process, with navy being the most prominent colour to promote a fresh and welcoming environment. To complement the navy decor, Emma wanted to divert away from black salon chairs while still keeping them practical, especially when providing colouring treatments.

Decisions for Denham interiors were continually changing, and the use of REM showrooms, sample colours, and mock work stations was a fantastic assistance in reaching the all-important final decision! Emma shared: “Our favourite pieces have to be the REM circular mirrors with LED lights as they add an amazing warmth to the salon.” Emma continued to share: “I would recommend REM to other salons as it’s been such a pleasure to work with them.” Clients of the salon share in Emma’s love for the salon, leaving wonderful feedback about the comfort and aesthetics of REM products within the space.

@remuklimited @denhamhairandbeautystudio

S.O.S., Please!

Founded over 30 years ago to service and support the rapidly expanding use of lasers within the industrial sector, we discover how Laser S.O.S. has developed to meet consumer demands.

In the beginning, the use of lasers was restricted to high-tech, niche, and expensive applications within a wide range of industrial sectors. Laser end users were faced with the monopoly of original equipment manufacturers for the large number of relatively low-tech consumable components that lasers constantly require to operate. These included items such as laser lamps, mirrors, and water filters.

With overwhelming consumer demand and support from such end-users, Toni Koszykowski, founder of Laser S.O.S., was able to find and develop in-house alternative sources of supply for a growing number of these consumable items. This strategy quickly delivered significant cost savings to all laser endusers.

Over the past 30 years, the company has grown to be one of the largest international suppliers of solid-state laser and IPL sources, retrofit laser parts, consumables, and associated products for many hundreds of different systems.

Laser S.O.S. is also home to a research and development facility devising tailormade solutions for end-users and a comprehensive assembly laboratory.

Laser S.O.S. Group’s core

business sectors support a broad range of lasers used in industrial, diamond, jewellery, medical, beauty, aesthetics, and the scientific community.

The company has expanded its product range into the beauty, aesthetics, and medical sectors, not only providing an extensive range of retrofit I.P.L. and medical components for most leading laser and IPL systems operating in the UK but also producing its own Intense Pulse Light (I.P.L.) system for hair reduction and skin rejuvenation. With the benefit of decades of international operations within the laser market, the components supplied are rarely single-sourced but can be offered from a range of suppliers with different cost and delivery options.

To support this growing demand, a comprehensive aesthetics facility

has been set up within the plant to test equipment and train end-users on the use of aesthetic laser systems. Today, Laser S.O.S. supplies consumable components, from laser lamps and optics to water filters and O-rings, to most laser systems operating in the UK aesthetics market.

Furthermore, with many clients requiring a very rapid response when their systems are down, Laser S.O.S. has developed unique knowledge and experience in quickly shipping components all over the globe.

Laser S.O.S. supplies components and technical services directly to all end-users and salons providing aesthetic services, as well as the laser engineering organisations that support such equipment. Please see our web site at www.lasersosaesthetics.com. or email us at sales@lasersos.com with your enquiry.

New Event For Modern Salon Pros

Providing peer-level networking, business development opportunities, and a first-class education programme, we hear about the Salon Life convention, taking place on May 19–20.

The Salon Life Beauty Convention is a modern event for discerning salon professionals seeking a new way to do business.

The Convention brings together some of the industry’s most experienced salon managers and the brands that support them in a relaxed, professional environment to build their contacts and grow their businesses.

Much more than just a conference, this exciting new event provides a unique combination of exposure to the latest beauty and aesthetics trends, extensive peer-level networking, and business development opportunities, all under one roof.

Salon Life presents an intimate event experience with a unique emphasis on education and self-development and a cost-effective alternative to the hit-and-miss approach of large tradeshows, which is why it is proving to be increasingly popular with both timepoor salon managers and senior brand

managers looking to spend more quality time with customers.

This year’s Salon Life Convention will take place on Sunday, May 19th, and Monday, May 20th, at the impressive four-star Macdonald Burlington Hotel in Central Birmingham, which

is conveniently located immediately opposite Birmingham New Street Station, with numerous car parking options close by.

When talking business, face-to-face is always best

At Salon Life, we understand that, as a busy salon manager, your time is precious, valuable, and limited. As a decision-maker for your business, you will enjoy a personal schedule of prearranged meetings with brands and suppliers that you will have selected in advance.

These speed-networking meetings are an efficient use of time and, as the name suggests, operate like a speeddating forum for companies. This is a fantastic way for senior managers to do business, as it allows salon professionals to benchmark distinct brands and avoid any time-wasting for both parties.

Meetings only last for 15–20 minutes each, but if you require more information

from individual suppliers, you can visit their display stand in the EXPO Arena, agree on a follow-up meeting later at the convention, or even make an appointment to meet at your business post-event.

The EXPO is the social hub of the event, providing a relaxed, professional environment where you can hang out and browse the display stands from leading international brands. In combination with the speed-networking forum, it is an efficient way to review the supply market and learn more about the latest launches and service innovations in the aesthetics and beauty industries.

This is also where you will get to touch, taste, feel, and test the products from the brands in attendance, learn more about their latest launches and service

innovations, and catch up on all the latest news and industry buzz.

What we learn with pleasure, we never forget

The Salon Life Conference programme will explore the key challenges facing the world of beauty and aesthetics. With support from the sector’s governing bodies, such as HABIA, BABTAC, and NHBF, there will also be a focus on promoting dialogue and collaboration and sharing the latest government guidelines to support consistency in educational standards.

Conference highlights will include sessions from Susan Routledge, an internationally renowned business consultant and founder of Beauty Directors’ Club, who will share insights

into her award-winning programmes for achieving salon success, and a panel session featuring a selection of multi-site operators who will share the secrets of achieving sustainable business growth across multiple salon locations.

With a series of other topical sessions, including social media and salon marketing, this is an education programme that has something for everyone, including the aspiring leaders of tomorrow. So, bring your teams, who will be invigorated and inspired with actionable insights to put into practice in your business and will reward you by helping you raise the bar in your salon operations.

In conclusion, with a line-up of esteemed speakers, business development activities, and diverse networking opportunities, Salon Life promises to be a transformative experience for all participants. Attendees will leave with a wealth of knowledge, inspiration, and connections, ready to take their salon business to the next level.

Salon Life Beauty Convention

When: May 19th–20th, 2024

Where: Macdonald Burlington Hotel, Birmingham

More info: www.salon-life.co.uk

Next Generation of Lashes

Nouveau Lashes revolutionised the lash game back in 2006 with the invention of the lash lift. In 2022, they reinvented lashes yet again with their breakthrough new LVL CeraLashLift System. In this editorial, we take a look at what makes this the next-generation lash lift system.

A breakthrough in natural lashes

Nouveau Lashes set their in-house product development team the task to develop their iconic LVL system even further. After working with 77 international lash artists and over 225 hours of testing on over 550 eyes, the LVL CeraLashLift System was eventually born.

The first stage was to ensure that the formula continued to maintain lash health. The LVL CeraLashLift range is infused with conditioning actives to support natural lash health at every step of the treatment.

Senior Product Manager Hannah De Mowbray shared, “Lash health is really important to Nouveau Lashes; it’s been at the heart of our principles as a brand since the very beginning.”

The key ingredient throughout the range is CeramideBio. This synthetic ceramide alternative is not only veganfriendly, but it’s also a more sustainable option. Ceramides are naturally occurring fatty acids that hold the hair cuticle and cortex cells together. Ensuring that lashes are treated with CeramideBio throughout the treatment helps to repair, protect, strengthen, and restore natural lashes.

Meet the new system

Step 1: LVL CeraLashBond:

No longer a single-use pearl, the bonding gel now comes in a 10ml tube that offers 20+ treatments. It’s also enriched with baobab seed oil and vitamins A, D, E, and F for moisturising properties.

Step 2: LVL CeraLashLift:

This new formula requires a shorter processing time and the addition of conditioning CeramideBio, coconut fruit extract, and vitamin E.

Step 3: LVL CeraLashFix

+ Tint:

One of the biggest breakthroughs is the streamlined process of combining the lash lift fix and tint steps. Not only does this cut down your processing times by 33%, but it also reduces the number of times the client’s lash cuticles are opened and closed during treatment.

Step 4: LVL

CeraLashBalance:

The pH Reconstructor is a revolutionary new step in your lash lifting treatments,

as the product avoids any chance of overprocessing and returns the natural pH levels to the lashes.

Step 5: LVL

CeraLashRestore:

The final step enriches lashes with CeramideBio, panthenol, and hydrolysed quinoa extract. It also includes a film former to help coat and protect the curl.

There’s also the new Nouveau Lashes LVL Artist Palette, with five sections to hold and mix each step of the treatment.

The LVL CeraLashLift System is available to lash artists exclusively via nouveaulashes.com and nouveaubeauty. com. Get 10% off your first order at nouveaubeauty.com with the code HOUSE10.

@nouveaulashesuk

Release your inner artist with DVOK’s Canvas Gel Collection. As designed by Emily @freshsetlancaster Collection comes with 26 tubed gels (10g each)

Receive a free palette and brush with purchase (Palette knife and chart not included)

www.kkookie.co.uk

Alopecia Awareness

We hear from Hairware brand ambassador, @wigswithkristina, to discuss her journey towards alopecia acceptance and the struggles along the way.

Please tell us about your experience with alopecia

My hair began falling out during my teenage years, and I experienced severe bullying in school while my stepmother was also diagnosed with terminal cancer. A dermatologist diagnosed me with Alopecia Areata and told me there were no guaranteed cures, and due to chronic health problems, it wasn’t recommended that I try immunosuppressant’s.

My hair fell out incredibly slowly over six years, with the majority falling out during my first pregnancy. I put the hair loss down to the stress my body was undergoing, as I was also experiencing heart failure. I have since been diagnosed with Alopecia Universalis, and the majority of my body hair has fallen out.

The diagnosis was the start of my wig-wearing journey, and it has taken 23 years for me to come to terms with my hair loss.

What would you say is the most challenging thing about having alopecia?

As a teen, my self-esteem plummeted, and I headed into a really dark place. I found it incredibly challenging to join in on activities that my friends were doing, and as I got older, I found myself not wanting my children to have sleepovers

due to embarrassment and hating unexpected visits.

Do you believe there are any advantages to having alopecia?

Having now accepted hair loss, I can see many advantages: you can be ready in the blink of an eye, and if you wear synthetic styles, the style will hold.

If you’re open about your hair loss, you can change the colour of your hair and the style. One day you could be a

redhead, the next a blonde, have long hair one day, and have a pixie cut the next.

What advice would you give to anyone struggling with alopecia?

The biggest piece of advice I could give anyone struggling with alopecia is to find the hair loss community, as it will help you feel less alone. Allow yourself the time to grieve, and don’t feel pressured; everyone copes differently.

What made you decide to start sharing your experiences?

After years of watching many amazing YouTubers who dedicate videos to sharing wig content, I thought, “Why can’t I do this?” So that was when @wigswithkristina was born, and a month after creating the page, I “came out” as totally bald. I receive countless messages from others who have hair loss and need advice, and I feel so grateful to be in a position to help and support others.

No.1 Lighting Choice of Clinics

Introducing the iQ Magnifier by Daylight™, a revolutionary lighting solution set to redefine the landscape of health and beauty treatments. With lighting being crucial to displaying work, we hear how Daylight™ lamps and magnifiers go beyond illumination to faithfully reproduce natural light.

The iQ Magnifier by

Daylight™

Being the number one lighting choice of aestheticians and skin care professionals, this revolutionary feature is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity for health and beauty professionals who demand perfection in their clinics. Magnifier by Daylight™ is a game-changing lighting solution that promises to transform the way health and beauty treatments are performed. Ideal for performing a variety of skin health and beauty treatments, including facials, superficial chemical peels, fillers, and more, this magnifying lamp offers the perfect lighting conditions for impeccable results.

The iQ Magnifier boasts a combination of a large and lightweight lens, providing health and beauty experts with the

ability to conduct detailed work with unparalleled comfort. The long reach of the lamp allows for flexibility in positioning, ensuring that you can focus on your client without compromising on ergonomics. A floor stand is also available separately for beauticians looking for a standing option.

Why is the iQ Magnifier the best magnifying lamp for aestheticians?

What sets the iQ Magnifier apart is its magnifying head, which is effortlessly movable to hold any position, and laterally protected arms that simplify positioning and the cleaning process. This innovation ensures that professionals can maintain a hygienic and efficient workspace, contributing to

a seamless workflow.

For those moments that demand a closer look, such as facial cleaning, the iQ Magnifier features a 12 dioptres (4.0X) magnification lens mounted on a swing arm. The adjustable lens is complete with a removable protector, ensuring the lens remains in pristine condition for prolonged and reliable use.

Aestheticians and skin care professionals, in particular, will find the iQ Magnifier to be an indispensable tool for performing a variety of skin health and beauty treatments. The magnifying lamp offers the perfect lighting conditions for impeccable results.

www.daylightcompany.com/iqmagnifier-lamp/

Say Hello to Radiant Glow

Discussing Microdermabrasion as their aesthetic treatment of the month, we hear from Skinbase, a British brand providing non-surgical treatment solutions to the beauty industry.

SkinBase

Microdermabrasion: What is it?

SkinBase Microdermabrasion treatments harness the power of exfoliating crystals to resurface and rejuvenate the skin. While ultra-fine crystals exfoliate the skin, a vacuum action removes dead skin cells and stimulates blood flow to the area, encouraging collagen and elastin formation. Regular treatments performed every 7–10 days (which we recommend during a course of treatment) will ensure continued improvement for your clients’ skin concerns and a glowing and radiant complexion. Microdermabrasion is chemical-free and non-invasive, yet it achieves amazing results, revealing younger, healthier-looking skin from the very first treatment. No recovery time is required after having Microdermabrasion, and clients can return to their daily activities immediately following a session.

What does it treat?

Microdermabrasion treatments can be used for anything from fine lines and wrinkles, acne, and acne scarring to dull, tired skin, uneven skin tone, and pigmentation. With 19 years of experience, our Microdermabrasion treatments have been proven to tackle these issues head-on, delivering remarkable, life-changing results for clients. As mentioned, Microdermabrasion can help with a number of different skin concerns. Not only do we see visible improvements in the skin, but the boost in clients’ confidence is truly remarkable. As skin therapists, our mission is to help clients’ look and feel amazing. With SkinBase Microdermabrasion, you can achieve

just that. Join us in the journey of transforming lives, one treatment at a time.

Who can benefit?

Well, the short answer is everyone! Exfoliation is key for maintaining healthy, radiant skin, making MD suitable for all ages and skin types. Spring is here, and it’s the perfect time to breathe new life into your clients’ skin with Microdermabrasion. Whether they’re battling dry, winter skin buildup or seeking to address signs of ageing or problematic skin, this treatment is the ultimate solution. For clients concerned with outward signs of skin ageing, those aged 28 and up will benefit the most. However, for problematic skin conditions such as acne and acne scarring, all age groups can benefit. Let’s meet Carla Davies, our SkinBase Transformation of the Year 2022 winner, who suffered from debilitating acne.

Acne transformation

Carla’s battle with acne was both physically and emotionally painful. “It was painful and totally destroyed my selfconfidence, stopping me from leaving my house as I felt hideous.” Carla’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Battling with painful acne that shattered her self-confidence, Carla found herself confined to her home, feeling utterly hopeless.

But then she discovered SkinBase Microdermabrasion. After undergoing a course of treatments, Carla experienced a remarkable transformation. Her skin was not only clearer and healthier but also radiating with a newfound glow. Most importantly, Carla reclaimed her confidence. No longer shackled by insecurity, she found herself stepping out makeup-free and embracing life.

“Microdermabrasion literally gave me the confidence to get my life back and speak to people again.”

Carla’s story is a testament to the profound impact Microdermabrasion can have. It’s more than just skincare; it’s about restoring confidence and reclaiming self-worth.

Transformation of the Year

We’ve got many more stories like Carla’s. The 2024 competition is now live as SkinBase searches again for the life-changing transformation of the year. As a SkinBase client, you can enter client transformations every month to win monthly prizes and the chance to secure a spot in the final of SkinBase Transformation of the Year. Why not get in touch to find out more about the treatments we offer and take advantage of our two-week free trial?

Two-Week Free Trial

Since 2005, SkinBase has offered a free two-week trial of the SkinBase Microdermabrasion machine, as we know, once you try it, you’ll love it! We include free guild-accredited training and everything you need to earn over

£1,000 during your free trial before you pay us a penny. At the end of the trial, you have 3 options: return it (we pay for and arrange collection), buy a machine (finance options available), or the most popular option is our unique PAYG rental system. Simply pay £12.24 per treatment (minimum 1 treatment per week), and you will have a machine, consumables, parts, and servicing, as well as ongoing support included. £0 investment required.

SkinBase specialises in the manufacture and distribution of professional aesthetic equipment, delivering systems that provide exceptional performance, quality, and proven reliability. For more information about SkinBase and its range of Microdermabrasion, Intense Pulsed Light, and Collagen Lift treatments, visit www.skinbase.co.uk.

Go online to request your two-week free trial at www.skinbasepro.co.uk, or call us on 01782 770810

Hair Colouring

Hair Me Out

Changing their hair colour can be a transformative experience for clients, but what happens when it doesn’t go exactly as planned? In this feature, we delve into the world of hair colouring, and explore how to navigate potential negative comments and criticisms with confidence.

It’s a harsh reality of salon life that occasionally some customers won’t be pleased, no matter how hard you try. Due to customers witnessing drastic and often unattainable colour changes on social media, expectations are heightened, and clients can be left feeling unsatisfied. With these problems becoming ever more prevalent, we discuss how to handle and diffuse these situations effectively to strengthen your relationship with clients.

With social media firmly established in daily life, it’s difficult not to continually compare; from clothes to gym routines to hair! Social media provides clients with the ability to share inspiration and communicate their desired final look; however, it also has the ability to create false expectations. Brian Plunkett, ART and Founder of Trichocare Education, highlighted the lengthy process of colour transitioning that social media doesn’t always show. Brian noted, “It’s easy to look at transformations and think that these are quick fixes, especially with filters giving an unrealistic finish, which just aren’t possible to achieve.”

With this in mind, it is the role of the colourist to communicate effectively with clients to gain an understanding of what is possible with the hair in front of them. Michelle Summers-Davies, Owner of Michelle Davies Hair, highlighted the importance of, “Honest consultations, achievable goals, and presenting a diverse range of transformations to manage client expectations effectively.” Ultimately, stylists have the ability to explain to clients that what they may be seeing has been professionally edited, and manipulated, and may not be real-life. This idea is supported by Roz Orr, Salon Director at South St Andrew Street Salon for L’Oréal Professional, as she said, “Honest communication goes a long way to keep clients’ expectations realistic and avoid disappointment.”

Honest communication goes a long way to keep clients’ expectations realistic and avoid disappointment.

If a client expresses dissatisfaction after a hair colouring appointment, it is important for the hairstylist to address their concerns in a professional and empathetic manner. With an array of options available for how to rectify colour issues, Ludovic Deveaux, Redken Artist and Balayage Specialist, noted, “Talking openly with clients is the key. Sometimes things can be fixed very quickly; alternatively, I might suggest they come back for a free touch-up, showing that I value their custom.”

At the heart of resolving client dissatisfaction is the importance of open communication and a deep understanding. Gunel Kelly, Creative Director of Manic Panic UK Sponsored Salon, Harness & Mane, stressed, “Colourists must manage customers’ expectations as to what’s possible, and never overpromise.” Overpromising and under delivering are a sure-fire way to damage a salon’s reputation!

If a client comes to your salon after an unsuccessful treatment elsewhere, it is important to encourage them to understand, from the previous salon’s point of view, what went wrong. Although a client may feel hesitant to trust another salon after a poor service elsewhere, Kelly Shone-Adams, OSMO Technical Advisor and Owner of Technocracy Hair Salon, explained, “It is not our place as a stylist to devalue or criticise another person’s work.” Instead, the new stylist must offer expertise and guidance to try and help the unsatisfied client. Fixing work done by another salon may not always be straight-forward, and

By rectifying the issue before leaving the salon, the client will be more likely to return.

Roz explained, “Correcting a colour that has been done at another salon could incur higher cost implications, and this should be clearly explained during the consultation.” With this in mind, the importance of successful colour correction cannot be overstated due to the trust, reputation, and positive word of mouth reviews, leading to potential repeat business.

Client dissatisfaction with hair

colouring highlights the importance of a thorough hair consultation to try and negate the opportunity for error. An extensive hair consultation has the ability to increase client satisfaction by avoiding ambiguity and miscommunication. Kelly highlighted the importance of active listening within a consultation, and shared, “It’s a fact that 30–50% of what a client says goes unheard.” Listening, understanding and

discussing expectations with the client will result in increased trust, a deeper relationship and repeat business. Suzie McGill, Artistic Director at Rainbow Room International, emphasised the importance of discussing lifestyle, personality and budget within a consultation, as, “Many clients do not understand the maintenance and upkeep of certain colours,” which, in turn, can lead to client dissatisfaction out of the salon.

During the consultation, if presented with photos of desired looks, it is vital to highlight what the client sees in the photo that they are looking to replicate, as everyone’s interpretation is different. Additionally, Gunel suggested paying close attention to clients’ past thoughts and reactions to hair colouring, and stressed, “If someone has always been unhappy with what they’ve had done, try to understand why this is.”

Feedback, both positive and negative, can be the backbone to promoting personal and professional growth. Client feedback enables businesses to improve customer retention, while concurrently addressing issues that others may not see. It is understanding how to utilise negative feedback effectively that is crucial. Suzie supported this notion, and encouraged turning a negative experience into a positive one for the client. Suzie suggested, “By rectifying the issue before leaving the salon, the client will be more likely to return to the salon and continue being a loyal client than if their complaint is not dealt with in the right manner straight away.”

For feedback to be effective and strengthen the relationship with a client, they must feel listened to and heard. Gunel suggested, “Poor feedback about colour services should be approached with enthusiasm to understand what exactly isn’t working for the client, and with 100% willingness to rectify the situation.” Gunel continued by suggesting the idea of cyclical feedback, by looking to more advanced stylists for advice and further training. Kelly stressed the importance of not taking negative feedback personally, as she stated, “Remain calm, demonstrate understanding, and don’t take it personally.”

As previously mentioned, negative feedback is crucial for growth, providing valuable insights for salons to

It’s a fact that 30–50% of what a client says goes unheard.

continuously strive for excellence and exceed customer expectations. Gunel stressed, “Never lose sight of the fact that another salon is always around the corner, so value that your customers have chosen to come to you.” The way a salon chooses to deal with customer feedback is crucial to the salon’s reputation and growth. If handled correctly, a client will be more inclined to revisit and become a regular client due to the feeling of appreciation. Suzie continued to support this notion, as she highlighted, “A client will be more likely to discuss the great complaint handling they have had and, in turn, generate new clients from this word of mouth.” Feedback should always be

acknowledged in order to educate and grow, and to improve reputations.

In conclusion, communication lies at the centre of client satisfaction with hair colouring. It is inevitable that clients will continue to use images of Kim Kardashian or Sofia Richie as inspiration for their next hair appointment. While new hairstyles for them might appear instantaneous, hair colourists need to manage expectations thoroughly during consultations with clients to avoid disappointment. If negative feedback does arise, it is in the salon’s best interest to act quickly and empathetically in order to generate trust, appreciation and repeat business.

From Root to End

Creative colour expert at RUSH, Seung Ki Baek, talks us through trending gradient hair and whether training and products to deliver this style are a worthwhile investment, or whether this is a trend that is likely to end.

Please tell us about the gradient hair trend

A hair gradient, also known as an ombré hair colour, is where a hair colour gradients from the root to the tip. The colour starts darker at the top of the head and gradually gets lighter towards the ends. In previous years, the ombré was a huge hit amongst clients, where they would have a dark brunette root and then gradient towards a caramel or blonde tone. However, in 2023, and as we come further into 2024, we have seen the return of this trend, but with clients opting for more vibrant hair colours, such as pinks and reds for a statement, creative colour look.

How can stylists create this colour, and what products do they need?

As this look combines two vivid hair colours, clients will most likely have to have their hair pre-lightened or bleached

before the colour is applied, unless they already have a clean blonde base. Once the lift has been achieved, two colours similar in tone but one darker than the other will be able to be applied to the hair. To create the gradient, ensuring there’s a seamless blend and no harsh lines, it’s a good idea to use a balayage technique to ensure the colour looks as soft as possible. Alternatively, you can slightly backcomb the hair where you want the ombré to begin for a more blended finish.

What client would opt for this style?

Definitely a client who’s looking for a more creative hair colour look and who’s not afraid to stand out from the crowd!

Is this style seasonal or a look for all year round?

Clients may feel more inclined to opt for these sorts of bright, bold colour trends

during the summer months. However, this isn’t seasonal and the style can be worn all year round, with clients opting for a pastel and brighter-toned pink in the summer and darker, deeper tones of raspberry and burgundy in the autumn months.

Ultimately, in your opinion, is this style worth introducing?

For sure! Clients are always looking to be inspired when it comes to hair colour. Once you’ve created this look a few times, pop it on your social media and show your clients what you have to offer. Seeing unique hair colour creations and transformations can excite them, encourage them to try something new, and allow them to embrace their creativity.

@seungkibaek

Unlock Your Business’s Hidden Potential with Our Exclusive FREE Salon Marketing Group!

Dear Salon and Beauty Professionals

Are you ready to discover the beauty industry's best-kept marketing secrets and revolutionise your business?

Brace yourself for a journey of discovery like never before!

Join our FREE Salon Marketing Group and unlock the vault to a wealth of insider knowledge and unparalleled success! There are marketing strategies that most people don't know, and after years of navigating the corridors of BIG business, we're throwing open the doors to reveal strategies that small businesses rarely get to glimpse.

Why Should You Join? - Because the greatest sports stars have coaches, and so do great businesses, it’s what gets them to the top and keeps them at the top!

Imagine what's possible when you unlock these game-changing strategies:

Create Irresistible Offers: Unlock the secret to having clients come flooding through your doors!

Discover the real reason clients don’t come back : Stay one step ahead with this game-changing insight that flips the script on client retention.

Secret Rebooking Techniques: Get more rebookings without clients being able to say no or even feeling pressured.

Word-of-Mouth Magic: Keep clients raving about you and your salon between visits and referring more business to you.

Plus Much, Much More!

Don't miss out on these hidden gems of salon success! By joining our Salon Marketing Group, you're gaining access to insider knowledge that can transform your business's future.

Our group is your secret weapon, designed to reveal information and ideas you never knew existed. So join us now and embrace the power of “what you didn't know, you didn't know”!

Visit www.SalonSurvival.com to become a free member today. Don't let these marketing secrets remain hidden – seize the opportunity to supercharge your beauty business!

This is your Gateway to Success and you’ll never look back!

Max Out Revenue

There are two ways to make more money in a salon: bring in more or spend less. If only it were that simple. With tips on how increasing your stylists’ revenue will raise salon revenue, we hear from Danny Coles, hairstylist, trichologist, and sales manager at Vish Colour Management.

What’s a Salon Without Treats?

Almost every colour line includes treatments, and they now account for more than 5% of global salon service. That figure continues to rise, so creating a formalised treatment menu that lists what’s available makes it easy for the team to introduce the options to clients throughout an appointment. Those ‘instant’ treatments can, effectively, be an introduction and lead into the highervalue versions at future visits. The goal is to get clients hooked, and the staff excited to bring in more hard cash, but just make sure every treat is charged to the client.

Don’t Rely on Retail

Stylists are struggling against cashconscious clients stretching out visits and deserting them to buy retail online, and it’s hitting what was once a key way for the team to up their income. In many salons, retail continues to decline, but some salons have found that installing Vish colour management technology has been a game-changer. Colour technology allows businesses to introduce automated additional colour

charges or even separate colour costs from the service charge and add them to the bill as a professional service fee. Within just six months of installing Vish, Tuckwell & Co’s Nottingham and Derby salons captured an extra £22,300 by charging for additional colour. It makes the loss of retail much less painful.

Charge Their Worth

Don’t be afraid to raise prices. As well as an annual cost-of-living increase

and immediate product charge increases (easy to update in Vish) when manufacturers raise their prices, introducing an established protocol for promotion that is easy to communicate to the clientele helps drive up value. Promotion leads to higher charges, which benefit the salon, and a higher commission, which benefits the stylist and builds team loyalty. Celebrate the stylist’s work and never apologise for charging their worth.

Help Them to Cut Costs

Instead of repeatedly reminding your team to be more vigilant with charging and frugal with costly products, make it easy for them by automating the colour bar. Installing Vish colour management technology empowers them to master dispensing efficiency while removing the burden of remembering every formula. Vish’s integration with POS software means all extra colour and treatments are recorded and charged for at the front desk. Technology is the ultimate tool your team needs to make the salon and themselves more money. getvish.com @vishsalons

Education Station

Welcome to our regular feature with the NHBF, Visit the Education Station each month to hear unrivalled knowledge and expertise on the latest trends and discussions to elevate your business. This month, we learn about The State of the Industry Survey and what this means for the hair and beauty industry.

The State of the Industry Survey released in January 2024 by the National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) painted a detailed picture of the hair and beauty industry’s current state and outlook. The report revealed that the sector has been experiencing a slow but steady recovery since 2023. While some businesses are making a profit, there has been an increase in those that are making a loss (20% up from 14% in September), with concerns around energy costs and the National Living Wage at an all-time high.

The survey also found that businesses are facing significant challenges when it comes to staffing, recruitment, and apprenticeships. There has been a dip in recruitment intentions, 17% (down from 27%), with fewer businesses planning to take on new staff or apprentices. This indicated a skills crisis in the industry, with a lack of experienced staff and reduced

apprenticeship starts.

The burden of VAT and the disincentive to growth created by the threshold are significant barriers to growth within the industry. The report highlighted the need for reduced rates of VAT to support businesses at a crucial time.

Despite these challenges, the hair and beauty industry remains resilient, with survival prospects largely positive. However, debt levels remain high, and for many businesses, it will take between 2 and 5 years to clear.

The State of the Industry Survey report emphasised the need for targeted support to ensure continued growth. The hair and beauty industry is an essential sector of the economy, and its resilience through challenging times is admirable, but further support is necessary to maintain and enhance its contribution to the economy.

The NHBF will continue to fight for the sector in the highest places. The NHBF is asking for more support from the UK Government to help businesses grow and create more jobs. Although the government has extended the 75% retail discount, many businesses are still struggling to pay their staff due to rising wages. The sector needs funding to hire and train more young people and to support small businesses that can’t afford to pay higher wages. The tax system also needs to be fairer so that businesses with employees are not at a disadvantage compared to those who use selfemployed workers. With more support, the sector can continue to contribute to the UK’s economy and improve the wellbeing of the population. Visit www.nhbf.co.uk to read the full report.

Keep It Snappy

@gelalicious

@thelittlebeautycompany

Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow

As we enter spring and the arrival of warmer months is on the horizon, more customers will be walking through your salon doors for waxing. In light of this, we hear from pioneers in the waxing industry, HIVE®, as they discuss wax heaters.

Wax Heaters: Why HIVE®?

Since its founding in 1993, HIVE® of Beauty has led the way in the professional beauty sector. HIVE® has been a symbol of quality for therapists for over 3 decades, enabling beauticians to “wax with confidence.”

Decades later, HIVE® of Beauty serves clients all over the world and provides everything a contemporary waxing expert needs, be it a high-end waxing technician, small salon, or mobile therapist.

Are wax heaters HIVE®’s only products?

No, HIVE® views itself as a comprehensive waxing solution for experts. The line includes warm, crème, hot, and paraffin waxes, pre- and post-wax treatment products, and wax accessories, in addition to a large selection of premium wax heaters.

How has the technology of wax heaters changed over the years?

Since the first HIVE® wax heater was developed, the introduction of digital items has been by far the largest technological advancement. Professionals now have greater control than before thanks to digital heaters with functions like separately controlled

heating chambers and quick heating modes that have improved working procedures.

Can I use any wax heater model?

Certain waxing techniques require certain heaters; the great majority of HIVE® models can also be used with paraffin wax and warm, crème, and hot depilatory wax.

What is the most popular wax heater?

There is a wide selection of heaters available to meet specific needs, whether it be the volume of wax, aesthetic, or price point.

The HIVE® Petite Compact Wax Heater 200cc is massively popular, with its size being a key selling point. The size makes it ideal for smaller, more intimate treatments, and such versatility in a small, stylish package has seen it become a big hit with brow bars and barbers also.

Are there any additional benefits a HIVE® wax heater can offer salons?

Many clients want to schedule multiple treatment areas to be waxed, such as a full leg followed by a brow shape. Using a HIVE® wax heater, enabling two waxes to be heated simultaneously makes a big difference to time per treatment, increasing productivity and profit.

Is it important to have specific training on HIVE® products?

HIVE® are proud of being able to supply professionals with high-quality products that enable newly qualified students or experienced therapists alike to provide effective treatments to clients.

All trained therapists can feel confident in the results produced when using the HIVE® range and enjoy trouble-free waxing treatments. For additional peace of mind, all HIVE® wax heaters come with a 12-month warranty.

@hiveofbeautyltd

Paul Watts Hairdressing

This month, Paul Watts Hairdressing opens its doors and stars as our Simply Salon.

In the bustling town of Kettering, nestled among its vibrant streets, lies a salon that has not only mastered the art of hairstyling but has also emerged as a trendsetter in the industry. Paul Watts Hairdressing, recipient of the “Simply Salon” award, is a haven for those seeking not just a haircut but an experience.

Paul Watts, the visionary behind the salon, shares his unconventional journey: “My journey has been a crazy one, from playing football for Aston Villa to university to network engineer to finally finding my feet in hairdressing.” His unique path to the world of hairdressing brings an unparalleled perspective to the

salon, one that values instant results and creative expression.

“What inspired me was that I love instant or near-instant results. My university would give me deadlines of 3-6 months for projects, and I’d get them done in a day, so looking into what creative outlet would allow me to have a brief, design it, and create in a matter of hours was hairdressing. A rare thing I was told from tutors is: “I can envisage the result before I do it.”

Running a salon was not initially on Paul’s radar, but fate had other plans. “Running a salon is definitely something I never thought I would do, but it was thrown upon me when the salon I

managed suddenly had to close, so I bought it.” Despite the challenges, Paul highlights the highs of the journey: “The highs are having a team of creative, passionate people to share the journey with; having clients choose you to sit in your chair is such an amazing thing; then you have the awards, shows, etc., which are awesome.”

Paul’s dedication to his craft is palpable as he reflects on his work ethic: “You’re asking the wrong person to talk to about balance, and that’s fine. One frustration right now is that so many hairdressers are saying, slow down, take a minute, don’t burn yourself out. I live for it; I’ve never burned out, and I’m in

my 16th year of working 7 days a week, every hour possible. If you want it, you have to work for it. A saying I love is: ‘If you want to buy things without looking at the price, you gotta work without looking at the clock.’”

As the interview delves into the salon’s success, Paul credits not just his team’s skills but also the tools they use. “SimplyHair have the best foil, clips, combs, and customer service, so for me, all the tools, but what I can’t live without is great customer service, and you guys kill that.”

Paul Watts Hairdressing has become synonymous with excellence, and their choice of tools plays a pivotal role. Paul expresses his daily reliance on certain products: “Daily is the SimplyHair foil, the gold flamingo being a favourite of mine, the rubber creaseless clips in black are the actual bomb, and the bowl with the sucker is genius. So you guys at SimplyHair basically make my life easier.”

Client satisfaction is paramount for Paul, and he enthusiastically shares: “The foil, clients love it! The creaseless clips are incredible. Like I said, I give them out to clients if I’ve used them for growing out fringes or changing partings; they love them. Especially the pearl ones.”

Paul emphasises the importance of training in the industry: “I think training, in general; if you’re not training your team, you’re failing them. The top tip is foil placement rather than quantity. Less is more.” He stays ahead of the curve by using his YouTube channel to create trend reports, keeping both his team and audience fresh and bang on trend.

Paul recognises the impact of quality tools on his salon’s growth, stating, “SimplyHair’s tools have helped us grow by giving us a point of difference, but also my YouTube channel; it’s given my videos a new look, which I love.”

Paul Watts Hairdressing stands as a testament to passion, creativity, and unwavering dedication. The salon’s commitment to excellence, coupled with Paul’s unique journey, has elevated it to the pinnacle of the industry. As clients continue to flock to experience the magic within those walls, Paul Watts Hairdressing remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring hairstylists and a shining star in the world of salon excellence.

Unlock the Power of Payday

Everything is now available on demand, so why isn’t our money? We hear from the experts at Level discussing staff retention with on-demand pay, empowering workers to access, save, and budget with money as they earn it.

With inflation high and union strikes dominating the headlines, many employers are naturally worried about what they can afford to pay their workers. Despite good intentions, the current economic climate is making it almost impossible to match the expectations many workers have for pay raises. In the beauty sector, where staff turnover remains a challenge, this mismatch is causing even greater concern.

However, what you pay is only part of the puzzle; when you pay matters as well. By approaching this from a different angle, employers like Estée Lauder and L’Oréal are taking steps to reduce

staff turnover and increase wellbeing by putting their employees in control of when they are paid.

On-Demand Pay is a new technology that enables workers to access some of their earned income any day they need, rather than having to wait until payday. This provides a debt-free solution for dealing with unexpected expenses and helps solve personal cash-flow issues.

Interestingly, many smaller employers have almost eliminated unfilled shifts. While they haven’t increased their hourly rate of pay, by compensating overtime immediately, they have made the link between work and reward clearer. This incentivises overtime with a more tangible reward without increasing the wage bill.

Perhaps most innovatively of all, new technology now enables this in a way that doesn’t impact the payroll systems and cash flow of employers. Payroll simply continues as usual, and everything else is handled automatically by the On-Demand Pay provider.

With On-Demand Pay already commonplace in America and many British sectors like retail, the technology feels increasingly inevitable for beauty businesses, both big and small. The hope is that, as well as supporting staff through this awful cost-of-living crisis, innovative technology like this might finally help crack the high turnover that’s plagued many UK industries for decades.

www.levelft.com

CONNECTIONS

Aesthetics

Artemis

T: 0207 157 9758

E: support@artemisdistribution. com

W: uk.artemis.co @uk.artemis artemisdistribution

SkinBase

West Avenue, Talke, ST7 1TL

T: 01782 770 810

E: office@skinbase.co.uk

W: www.skinbasepro.co.uk @skinbase_facial SkinBaseFacial @SkinBase

Zemits UK LTD

T: 020 4532 5922

W: www.zemits.co.uk

Beauty Products & Training

Furniture

Haircare

Nouveau Beauty

T: 01977 655 090

E: info@nouveaubeauty.com

W: www.nouveaubeauty.com

Hair Products

Soapbox PR

Unit 18, Hillgate Place, 18-20 Balham Hill, London SW12 9ER.

T: 020 3133 3013

Hair Tools

Insurance

REM

T: 01282 619977

E: sales@rem.co.uk

W: www.rem.co.uk

Olaplex

E: uksupport@olaplex.com

W: uk.olaplex.com

@olaplex

@olaplex

@olaplex

Hair Extensions

Cliphair

T: 03450 211 311

E: trade@cliphair.co.uk

W: www.cliphair.co.uk

@cliphairlimited @cliphair.limited @cliphairextensions @cliphairlimited

Denman Professional Tools

Denman International Clandeboye Road, Bangor, County Down, BT20 3JH

E: customer.services@ denmanbrush.com

W: denmanbrush.com @denmanpro

Morgan Richardson Ltd

T: 0800 731 2940

E: quotes@morganrichardson. co.uk

W: www.morganrichardson.co.uk/ salon-insurance

Lash & Brow Growth Serums

Avante Cosmetics

1 Short Hill, Harrow on the Hill, HA1 3BF

T: 07949 508 885

E: info@avantecosmetics.co.uk

W: www.avantecosmetics.co.uk @avantecosmetics @avantecosmetics @avantecosmetics

Natural Products

Inika Organic

T: +44 (0) 203 713 0149

E: simone@inikaorganic.com

W: uk.inikaorganic.com @inikaorganic @inikaorganic @inikatv

Nails & Beauty Products

Hive of Beauty Ltd

1 Queens Grove Studios, London NW8 6EP

T: 0845 450 4802

E: sales@hiveofbeauty.co.uk

W: www.hiveofbeauty.com @HiveWax @hiveofbeauty

Natural Skincare

Lisa Kon

E: hello@lisakon.co.uk

W: www.lisakon.co.uk

W: www.lisakontraining academy.co.uk

AEOS

Aura-Soma Products Ltd, South Road, Tetford, LN9 6QB

W: www.aeos.net @aeosskincare activeenergisedorganicskincare

The BeMine Company Limited

Stoneyford, Clifton, Oxon, OX15 0PE

W: www.bemineco.com @bemineuk @bemineuk

Payment Systems

Salon Furniture

EVO Payments UK

T: 01218279100

E: salesenquiry@evopayments.com

W: www.evopayments.co.uk

Albert Ewan Design

T: 016 70 73 89 79

E: studio@albertewandesign.com

W: www.albertewandesign.com

Concept Salon Design

Unit 11 & 12, Brookfield Business Park. Brookfield Drive, Aintree Liverpool, L9 7AS

T: 0151 523 0132

E: sales@salonfurniture.co.uk

W: www.salonfurniture.co.uk

Salon Software

Skincare

Waxing

Salon Tracker Ltd

Unit 5a South Park Way

41 Business Park, Wakefield

WF2 0XJ

T: 0113 350 8230

E: info@salontracker.co.uk

W: www.salontracker.co.uk

Styler

E: support@styler.digital

W: styler.digital +44 7305214688 @styler.uk styler.uk @styler.uk

Timely

T: 020 3808 0465

E: sales@gettimely.com

W: www.gettimely.com @timely @liketimely

IMAGE Skincare UK

Ventre House, Parklands, Railton Road, Guildford, Surrey, GU2 9JX

T: 0345 504 0461

W: www.imageskincare.co.uk @imageskincareuk

Karin Herzog

T: 07443 744847

E: hello@karinherzog.co.uk

W: www.karinherzog.co.uk @karinherzog.uk

KarinHerzogUnitedKingdom

Luna Microcare

Building 3, Chiswick Business Park, 566 Chiswick High Road, W4 5YA

T: 0208 899 7478

W: www.lunamicrocare.com @lunamicrocareofficial

Miin Cosmetics

T: +34 931 026 228

T: +34 650 911 170

E: sales@miin-cosmetics.com

W: www.miin-cosmetics.co.uk

Harley Waxing

T UK: 0845 612 1944

T International: +44(0)1984 623 209

E: orders@harleywaxing.co.uk

W: www.harleywaxing.co.uk @harleywaxuk harleywaxuk @HarleyWax harleywax

Hair – RUSH Artistic Team

Photography – Jack Eames

Makeup – Lans London

Styling – Robert Morrison