SalonEVO North America Issue 23 (December/January) by Evo Enterprises Ltd

t NORTH AMERICA

JOHN MORONEY RODRICK SAMUELS LUIS ALVAREZ ELIZABETH FAYE HAIRDREAMS BY MICHAEL BOYCHUCK

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THE FINAL CUT.

Nails// Tamara Di Lullo, Valerie Ducharme, Emily Nash. Art Director// Richard Tranley. Photographer// Jean Ho.

THE FINAL CUT.

CND UPCYCLE CHIC 13

THE FINAL CUT.

FASTFOILS FAS T F ORWARD

Hair// FASTFOILS CREATIVE TEAM J Ladner, Amber Maynard, Hunter Walden, Ben Barkworth, Travis Scott. Styling// Travis Scott. MUA// Orlando Marin. Photographer// John Rawson. Creative Director// Ben Barkworth.

THE FINAL CUT.

LAUREN MOSER SAMUELS TEXTUREVERSE COLLECTION

Hair// Lauren Moser Samuels. Photography// Kristen Correa Flint. Models// Emily Jean, Arelie Bengu, Olu Sike, Britta Elle. Make Up// Jessica Pudelek.

THE FINAL CUT.

GEORGE ALDERETE LINEAR 23

Photography// John Rawson @jonrawson. Hair Color// George Alderete @georgecolorboygeo. Global Color Ambassador// Keune North America. Stylist// Lisa Vann @lisavanntexture. Color// KEUNE North America.

THE FINAL CUT.

Shop exclusive styles by the Professional Beauty Association. From hats and travel mugs to cozy sweats, we launched a merch line with licensed pros in mind. 100% of proceeds from the sale of our merchandise go towards PBA’s efforts to support our industry, tackling issues that matter most to beauty professionals.

23 DIR E C T O R S Andrew Brewster// andrew@barberevo.com David Foster// david@barberevo.com ****

D E S IG N Sarah Slater// sarah@salon-evo.com Greg Wickham// design@salon-evo.com ****

S A L O NE V O E DI T O R Jennifer Paxton//

A N D R E W B R E W S T E R & DAVID F OS T ER | CO - F OUNDERS

jennifer@salon-evo.com ****

B A R B E R E V O E DI T O R Mairi Mulhern// mmulhern@barberevo.com ****

ACCOUNT MANAGERS Jane Thomson// jane@salon-evo.com ****

Mairi Cotter// mairi@barberevo.com ****

M A R K E T IN G M A N A G E R Nathalia Almeida// nathalia@barberevo.com ****

O F F IC E M A N A G E R Elspeth Foster// elspeth@barberevo.com ****

COVER OLAPLEX

LET THE GRAFTING BEGIN! THE FESTIVE SEASON IS UPON US AND WE HAVE SOME TOP ADVICE FOR MAXIMIZING YOUR REVENUE THIS WINTER. EVO IS PUTTING PLANS IN PLACE FOR WHAT WE ANTICIPATE WILL BE AN EVEN BIGGER AND BETTER NEW YEAR. WATCH THIS SPACE... What can we say about 2023 except WOW. We have covered more ground than ever before (literally and metaphorically), attended a record number of events and have intensified our presence in the hair and beauty media circuit across the North America as well as UK and Ireland. We’ve done America’s Beauty Show, Premiere events, Salt Lake City Beauty and Barber Expo, we’ve held our first event, EVO on the Road, and we’ve taken the brand much further afield to events in the likes of Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Chicago, NYC, Orlando, and Connecticut – we’ve been everywhere.  As we get ready to tie off another fruitful year, we firstly want to say THANK YOU to every person who has picked up our magazine, featured on its pages, engaged with us on social media, and sat in the hotseat for a live interview at the many major events we have been active at. You guys are our motivation for every single issue and the ideas we generate for print and events is all so that we can represent YOU.

In the short term, we’re really excited about the launch of our YouTube channel @evoenterprises – there’s going to be huge amounts of incredible content going up on there in the coming months. We have so many candid interviews and educational advice from massive industry names from both sides of the pond. There’s genuinely so much to look forward to. We’re prepped and ready for a busy festive season and we’re here to help you prep too. This issue is absolutely packed with valuable content for both the barber and the business owner. More on the opposite page… For now, make sure to follow SalonEVOmag on all the platforms: Instagram @salonevomag / Facebook @SalonEvoMag/ email info@salon-evo.com / YouTube @evoenterprises Have an incredible festive break when it comes around… we’ll see you in 2024 ;)

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STAY CONNECTED

WWW.SALON-EVO.COM COPYRIGHT All work in this publication is copyright SalonEVO Magazine and Evo Enterprises Ltd. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the permission of the publisher. © Information and product prices are correct at time of printing. Some products may not be available in all stores. Evo Enterprises Ltd, Torus Building, Unit 6, Rankine Avenue East Kilbride, G75 0QF, United Kingdom

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96 87 HAIRDUSTRY

KRISTIN KAIDE

Podcast hosts, Corey Gray and Tony Stuart

Hair & Makeup Educator, Moroccanoil Artisitc Team

81 JENNIFER PAXTON | EDITOR IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! THANKS FOR PICKING UP ISSUE 23 – WHAT AN APT NUMBER AS WE WRAP UP 2023! THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO SUBSCRIBED, AND FOLLOWED ALONG. WE CAN’T WAIT TO BRING ON MORE FOR YOU ALL IN ’24! It has been a record-breaking year here at EVO, with the most events attended, the most live interviews held, and the highest number of subscriptions! But just because we are reaching our goals, doesn’t mean it’s time to sit back and relax. This time of year is all about reflecting on our accomplishments, and thinking about what we can do better, bigger and stronger next year. So, naturally this issue, we talk a lot about reflecting and goal setting! Whatever your new year resolutions, whether it’s to expand your salon, boost your revenue, budget better, or just nail all of the latest trends in hair and beauty, we cover it all. This time of year can be hard on our hair. With the changing of the weather and the turning on of the thermostats, it might be time to add a little more TLC into your clients’ appointments. This feature, we dive right into the science of haircare, from the best ways to build bonds within each hair, to the importance of scalp health, the different ways to

approach hair texture, to the role that all of your tools and products play. Looking to add another service to your salon or beauty business? Why not look towards skincare. With natural beauty being the hottest trend right now, you can help your clients feel their best in their own skin – literally! Stylists spend all day, every day, taking care of their clients. You’re there for them throughout every win and loss in their life, and while you form beautiful, lifelong relationships, sometimes the weight of your work can become too much. We talk to the experts in mental and physical health, who offer their advice on how to avoid burn out and become more mindful in your business. Finally, for those of you wanting a little inspiration or motivation to give your salon a bit of a refresh in 2024, we gathered together some of our favorite spaces and advice on creating unique salon spaces. Now, put your feet up, get a cup of cocoa, and cozy up for this read. We’ll catch you in 2024!

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DANIELLE KEASLING

ANNA MANUKYAN

Global Director of L’Oréal brands, Matrix and Biolage, Executive Artistic Director of Great Lengths

Ulta’s Head of Education & Creative. Founder, Beauty Finance Group

K E YA N E A L

NINA TULIO

Curl Specialist, Educator and Founder of The Kolour Kulture and Texture vs Race

Business Ambassador, Oligo Professionnel

MCK E N ZIE T UR L E Y

S T E P H A NIE YA G GY L AV E R Y

Founder of IBE & Goldie Locks Haircare

Executive Publisher Advisor, Mia Secret

Short WAHL APPOINTS MISSY JACOBS AS NEW USA EDUCATION DEVELOPMENT LEADER With the Wahl Barber Academy, new global LMS, the Wahl Fade It Forward® scholarship program, and countless live educational events, Wahl’s commitment to professional education is strong. STERLING, IL (November 6, 2023) – For over 104 years, stylists and barbers worldwide have looked to Wahl Professional, the leader in professional and home grooming electric hair clippers, trimmers and shavers, for the best tools of their trade. The Wahl brand has also become synonymous with education and the best training in the industry, and with Wahl Professional’s recent hiring of 6 new educators along with the appointment of Missy Jacobs as the new USA Education Development Leader, Wahl has assembled an elite team to solidify their position as a leader in education. Missy brings over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry, and she most recently served as the Director of Education for Sexy Hair and STMNT under the Henkel umbrella. In her new role, Missy will be responsible for helping grow and strengthen education in the USA. She will also work closely with the Global Education Team on content creation to continue to strengthen their position as a global leader. “We are thrilled to welcome Missy to our education team,” said Stephanie Polansky, Wahl Global Director of Education. “Her passion, expertise, and dedication to empowering students make her an invaluable addition.” In addition to Missy Jacobs, Wahl Professional also brought on 6 new educators from across the country: Brittany Calzada, Christian Gonzalez, Colleen Brickley, Rodrick Samuels, Rory Sevajian, and Steve Wren. • Recently winning the prestigious Barbercon 'Come Up Award' and the title of 'Most Consistent Female Barber of the Year' at the California Barber Expo,

GOGLOW IS GROWING goGLOW, an emerging sunless tanning and skin care franchise, is thrilled to introduce its newest franchise owners, Erin and Chris Kobus, in Dallas, Texas. This dynamic husband and wife duo brings a wealth of experience and vision to goGLOW, ushering in an exciting new era of sunless tanning excellence. Erin Kobus, former Marketing

Brittany Calzada has been a driving force in the barbering industry for 9 years. • Based in Addison, Texas, Christian Gonzalez has been top five in the men’s category for Behind the Chair in 2021, 2022, and 2023. • As a testament to her ability to positively impact the careers of those she educates, Colleen “Coco" Brickley was a 2023 Barber Grammy Nominee, a 2023 Top 5 finalist for Educator of the Year at the CT Barber Expo, and in 2020 she was awarded the Heart of Champion Award for Educator at Sport Clips Haircuts. • Rodrick Samuels recently won the North American Hair Styling Awards Educator of the Year and was a Finalist for Artistic team of The Year and Barber of the Year for the Midwest Hair Styling Awards. • 2023 marked Rory Sevajian’s third decade behind the chair, and it was also the year he was nominated for Educator of the Year at the International Barber Grammy’s. • Steven Wren created the Fade Away Barber and Beauty Summit in 2015, and in 2021 was recognized as one of Modern Salon’s Top 100 industry game changers. “Wahl has built an educator team that is best in class– selected for their talent, effort, and character– knowing they will inspire professionals from around the world to improve their craft,” Garrett McGuire, Wahl’s Global Brand Director, explains. “The highest levels of educators in this industry are not only skilled barbers and stylists, but they understand how to communicate and motivate in ways that set them apart from their peers. That’s the Wahl Education team.” To learn more about the Wahl Education team, visit wahlpro.com.

Strategist for Victoria’s Secret, and Chris Kobus, previous Chief Experience Officer for European Wax Center, combine their expertise and passion to elevate the goGLOW franchise experience. As seasoned marketing professionals in the beauty and wellness industry, Erin and Chris Kobus are set to make a significant impact on the goGLOW brand and its community of franchise owners. "The Kobus’s involvement with goGLOW is a pivotal moment in our journey," said Melanie Richards, Founder of goGLOW. "Their collective, extensive background in both the beauty and franchising industries and their passion for empowering clients align perfectly with our values.

2024 ABS GLOBAL IMAGE AWARDS CALL FOR ENTRIES ARE OPEN Go BIG or go home! America’s Beauty Show proudly announces the 2024 ABS Global Image Awards call for entries are open. Stylists, creatives, artists - show the world what you can do! Entries are open from October 2, 2023 through January 25, 2024, at AmericasBeautyShow.com. The overall theme for the 2024 ABS Global Image Awards is Maximalism, which is rooted in a more-is-more philosophy that blends an eclectic mix of patterns, colors, textures, and objects. Artists can lean into big and bold decisionmaking regarding color, pattern, texture, shape, and form. More is more, and that’s what will be celebrated with the 2024 ABS Global Image Awards. The ABS Global Image Awards draws entries from across the world from talented professionals, barbers, emerging stylists, and cosmetology students. The winners of the global industry competition will be recognized during an amazing party at America’s Beauty Show on the evening of Saturday, April 20th. The awards night will have live music by Too Hype Crew, where guests can party to anthems of the '80s, '90s and early '00s, with a live six-piece band, emcees, and dancers. Categories include: • Barber of the Year • Creative Color • Full Concept • Haircutting • Makeup Artistry • Nail Design • Student • Texture Expert • Team Collaboration

We are thrilled to have Erin and Chris on board as we continue our mission to enhance confidence and promote self-care nationwide.” Recognized industry leaders, the Kobus duo's partnership with goGLOW is poised to set new standards for client satisfaction and franchise success, and the goGLOW team eagerly anticipates an exciting journey, collaborating with the Kobus team to empower individuals to radiate confidence from the inside out. For further information, or to learn more about franchising opportunities with goGLOW, please visit goGLOW.co.

HAIRSTYLISTS OFTEN ACT AS THERAPISTS, BUT WHO IS LOOKING OUT FOR THEM? The Professional Beauty Association is excited to announce its revamped membership offerings, specifically designed to provide beauty professionals with the resources they need to succeed in both their personal and professional lives. New in 2023, membership resources include access to 24/7 virtual counseling, affordable health insurance, custom business-building tools and other services specifically curated to support an industry dominated by women-owned and minority-owned businesses. Especially important during winter “cold and flu” season, PBA’s Business of 1 Members get FREE access to virtual health services, from check-ups and urgent needs to mental health appointments for the entire family, including dependents. PBA is also proud to offer access to health insurance with some of the lowest pricing on the market. Offerings include health insurance access with low copays, affordable dental, vision, and prescription plans, and childcare, homecare, and pet insurance options. In addition to mental and physical health benefits, PBA offers a full suite of membership benefits to serve all industry professionals along their career journey, from independent suite owners to salon owners to barbers, aestheticians, nail techs, to manufacturers and distributors. Other resources include key data including access to PBA’s database of 300,000+ beauty professionals as well as custom marketing plans, social media resources, beauty industry data, education, and guides for compensation, HR operations, and business blueprints. All PBA Memberships come with exclusive access to scholarship opportunities to help offset education expenses, discounts to signature events and beauty shows across the country, and access to unique networking opportunities and career development seminars. PBA members also have access to a robust online library of on-demand learning, exclusive savings from PBA Partners like Andis, Tondeo, UPS, and more, and Pro Beauty Lifestyle Discounts for restaurants, theme parks, and services. “Our goal at PBA is to uncomplicate the professional and personal needs of everyone in the industry,” shares Leslie Perry, Director of Membership. “We are uniquely situated to see and understand beauty professionals through all stages of their careers, so we can develop resources that make it easier for them to focus on what matters while we take care of the rest. We are thrilled to unveil our new membership resources and further support our valuable members.” To learn more, please visit probeauty.org/membership-benefits.

THE 35TH ANNUAL NORTH AMERICAN HAIRSTYLING AWARDS (NAHA) TO BE HELD JUNE 2, 2024, IN CONJUNCTION WITH PREMIERE ORLANDO The Professional Beauty Association (PBA), whose mission is to advocate and fight for the rights and professionalism of the beauty industry, is excited to announce the NAHA 2024 Awards Ceremony will be held June 2nd at the Orange County Convention Center in the Chapin Theater in conjunction with Premiere Orlando. NAHA is the most prestigious hair and beauty competition in North America, recognizing the industry's top talent and creative visionaries. The finalist announcement will take place LIVE at Premiere Anaheim February 4th on the Mainstage at the Anaheim Convention Center. This event is the perfect opportunity for industry professionals to come together and celebrate the best in the business. "We are thrilled for the live, in-person finalist announcement at Premiere Anaheim in February," said Nina Daily, Executive Director of PBA. "NAHA is a platform for artists to showcase their creativity and push the boundaries of what's possible in the beauty industry. We can't wait

to see what this year's entrants have in store for us." The finalist announcement will also be livestreamed on social platforms for those who cannot attend Premiere Anaheim. NAHA is not just a competition but a celebration of the artistry and creativity of hairstylists and makeup artists. Previous NAHA winners include esteemed industry professionals like Sam Villa, Michelle O’Connor, Jalia Pettis, and Nick Stenson. These artists have not only won the coveted NAHA award but are leaders in the industry, inspiring and mentoring the next generation of hairstylists and makeup artists. Key dates for NAHA 2022 are as follows: • Finalist Announcement: February 4, 2024 – live at Premiere Anaheim and livestreamed • NAHA 2024 Award Ceremony: June 2, 2024—Orlando For more information, please visit probeauty.com/NAHA.

SAVE TIME, SAVE MONEY, CREATE MORE! As a hairdresser spending a lot of her time doing color, Jackie was on the lookout for a color brush that was bigger, and better designed to speed up the coloring process. She said to us: “I looked everywhere for a color brush that would meet my needs and was astonished when there was nothing on the market. So, I thought, I will do it myself!” That’s when Jackie launched Zero Time System, an innovative range of color brushes that help hairdressers, save time, decrease wastage, make more money, and focus on what’s important: clients and creativity. So, Jackie invented the patented award-winning, Zero Time System brushes: The future of faster, precision color application. This kit comes with a stackable bowl that has a wall landing for easy loading and three brushes. The smallest brush at

3.5 inches, is still larger than most brushes on the market. It slays foil work and hair painting. The medium 4.5 brush curves for perfect connection to the root. Root melts and base color has never been faster. The largest brush in the kit is the 5.5 curved brush, perfect for all-over color. Not only are Zero Time System brushes faster, but with their feathered ends and soft bristles, the brushes are much more comfortable for the clients. As an active stylist, Jackie is always on the lookout for the needs of hairdressers, especially as trends and techniques change. That is why she has just launched her BRAND NEW Slicetime brush. Jackie said: “I was noticing that a lot of colorists were favoring slicing techniques instead of weaving, and they would have to turn their brush to the side and try to blend it that way. So,

THAT IS THE GOAL FOR JACKIE RICHARDSON, THE FOUNDER OF ZERO TIME SYSTEM, AN INNOVATIVE PRODUCT COMPANY DESIGNED TO HELP COLORISTS WORK MORE EFFICIENTLY, IMPROVING CLIENT COMFORT, ALL WHILE ACHIEVING THE BEST RESULTS. I thought, why not make a brush that could do it for you, and do it quicker? The Slicetime brush is slotted and its bristles are uneven, so it does a beautiful blend for you.” Jackie’s application advice? “Take a thin slice of hair, lay the brush down, then push the brush right up to the part line, and slice down.” Since inventing the Zero Time System, Jackie has had a lot of copycats. But to that, she says: “Of course copying is the best form of flattery, yet it has been limited by my three patents.” The truth is, ZTS will always be the Mercedes of brushes. Zero Time System has a lot more up their sleeves for 2024, including some exciting artist collaborations, as Jackie is always open for new ideas and collabs.

SAVE TIME SAVE MONEY Zero Time Systems hand crafted for the modern hair stylist

NEW TIME SAVING BRUSH

IS HERE!

To find out more and to purchase your own time-saving brush, go to zerotimesystem.com International shipping available. @zerotimesystem

ANDIS GALAXY SERIES Creativity has never looked so good. Andis introduces the Galaxy series which combines the lightweight Cordless Envy® Li Clipper and the Slimline® Pro Li Trimmer in a stunning Galaxy duo-tone finish. Available individually or as a combo.

ZTS BOWL AND SLICETIME BRUSH This is Zero Time System’s latest innovative brush, created for faster highlighting and blending color when using “Slicing” techniques. Paired with the ZTS bowl, you can reduce wastage, cut down on time, and give your clients a more comfortable service. What’s not to love?

OLAPLEX.NO.5P BLONDE ENHANCER™ TONING CONDITIONER A nourishing, root-to-tip formula that locks in high-def brightness and neutralizes yellow, brassy tones in blonde, lightened, highlighted, and grey hair without weighing hair down.

$42.99// zerotimesystem.com

olaplex.com

andis.com

ACUT ABOVE

WAHL PROFESSIONAL 5 STAR VANISH ® SHAVER This Shaver ensures no hair is missed and creates a smooth, ultra-close bump-free finish without irritation with its independent suspension cutter bars and micro-thin gold foils.

$129.00//wahlpro.com

GOLDWELL TOPCHIC ZERO

WASHI SCISSORS

Conscious. Progressive. Responsible. The incredibly caring, ammonia-free addition to TopChic. With Topchic Zero, you can have it all. The best performance and conscious, feelgood color with a vegan formula. Topchic Zero offers an exceptionally pleasant color service experience, from mixing to finish.

Celebrate Washi all year long with 15% off using coupon code EVO15 at checkout.

Washiscissor.com

goldwell.com

FASTFOILS™ STYLIST INTRO KIT

WAHL PROFESSIONAL 5 STAR CORDLESS BARBER COMBO™

Premium coated foil with superior heat transfer that lifts hair to the shade you want at least 25% faster than conventional foils without additional risk to damaging the hair. Includes: two packs of pre-cut, 5x7 inches (500 sheets), two packs of pre-cut, 5x12inches (500 sheets), and two packs of pre-cut, 8x10inches (250 sheets)

Wahl Professional’s #1 selling clipper pairs up with its #1 selling cordless trimmer! With DLC blades, an upgraded clipper motor, and a new matching look, this duo is sure to turn heads in the shop. Match power and precision with the 5 Star Cordless Barber Combo™ today!

$138.99// justbprofessional.com

$279.000 (SRP)// wahlpro.com

ULTA BEAUTY LIP LIBRARY Explore the library of color with this collection of 16 deluxe-sized lippies. Includes: 4 Lip Oils, 4 Plumping Lip Glosses, 4 Matte Lip Creams, 4 Lip Stain

$22.00// ulta.com

INNOVATIVE. POWERFUL. RESPONSIBLE. THE NEW TOPCHIC ZERO. Goldwell introduces the incredibly caring, ammonia-free addition to Topchic. Topchic Zero stays true to its iconic heritage while giving you more options for your color services. The vegan formula* offers incredibly natural, reliable grey coverage – up to 100% – while providing natural looking, even color results with up to 2x more shine**. Discover more at goldwell.com Scan to learn more about Topchic Zero.

*Free from animal-derived ingredients. **Vs untreated hair.

#TOPCHICZERO #GOGOLDWELL

CREATIVITY. CULTURE. COMMUNITY. HEADLINE???? ???????????????????? ????

Among the Kao Salon family of professionals across the globe, the Kao Salon Global Experience is the most enthusiastically anticipated event of the year. This year, based in the Windy City, Chicago the two-day extravaganza included an unforgettable showcase of extraordinary presentations, a thrilling live competition, and engaging artist performances. "At Kao Salon, creativity isn't just a buzzword – it's our DNA," says Dominic Pratt, President, Kao Salon Division. "Our commitment to innovation, imagination and integrity drives us every day, and Kao Salon Global Experience is the epitome of this ethos. We use this time to celebrate not only

our exceptional products but, more importantly, the remarkable individuals who make up our Kao Salon family." More than just an event, Kao Salon Global Experience serves as a celebration of creativity, a testament to innovation, and a gathering of like-minded individuals who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of the beauty and hair industry. It was also the 75th anniversary celebration of Kao Salon’s stylist-centric brand Goldwell, marking the culmination of decades of industry-breaking innovation, leading-edge technology, relentless research and development and deep relationships between Goldwell and its stylists.

“OUR COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION, IMAGINATION AND INTEGRITY DRIVES US EVERY DAY, AND KAO SALON GLOBAL EXPERIENCE IS THE EPITOME OF THIS ETHOS.” 34

THIS SEPTEMBER, KAO SALON DIVISION PROUDLY PRESENTED THE EAGERLY AWAITED 2023 KAO SALON GLOBAL EXPERIENCE, BRINGING TOGETHER OVER 2,000 PROFESSIONALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD TO CHICAGO, TO CELEBRATE CREATIVITY, INNOVATION, AND INSPIRATION. Global Creative Awards Some of the highlights of the event included the Global Creative Awards with the announcement of the new winners, Global Goldwell Ambassador, Angelo Seminara’s “Hair Every Wear 3.0” collection, Rush Artistic Team’s “Eras of Anarchy” collection, as well as Mario Krankl’s “Frankenstein’s Beauties” collection video. A big congratulations goes out to all the winners of the Global Creative Award winners, especially our North American friends, Samantha Dixon, Tina Casciato, Marilyn Vendittelli, Zoe O’Day, Stacey Smoker, as well as salons, Industry Hair & Esthetics, Salon Cyan and Renaissance Salon & Estetica. Angelo Seminara shared his excitement for the event: “Kao Salon Global experience is such a unique event. I loved sharing my vision and passion with like-minded professionals and it is amazing to see the special connection between the artists that work in this industry. The Global Creative Awards Evening is the greatest evening event of its kind worldwide!”

The Best of Education & Inspiration Throughout the event, the world's most creative artistic teams took the stage to share cutting-edge

trends and techniques, featuring the remarkable products of the Kao Salon Division. The event also featured five inspiring artist sessions from guests all over the world, including Hare & Bone from the UK, ICI Jolie from the Netherlands, Evolve from Singapore, Kien Hoang from USA, and The Creatives of North America.

Leadership in Sustainability Recognition Kao also uses the Salon Global Experience as an opportunity to recognise salons who are making their best efforts to run sustainable and low-impact businesses, much aligned with Kao’s commitment to sustainability in its manufacturing and distribution processes. Representing Europe, the recognition for “Leader in Salon Sustainbility” went to Unisex Friseure, representing America, the award went to “Fringe, A Boutique Salon” and representing Asia, the award with to “Roots – Where Hair Begins.”

The Future of Kao Global Experience After its first regional gathering for community and inspiration twenty years ago in Europe, the event evolved over the next two decades from Trend Zoom into Color Zoom, then Global Zoom, and into Kao Salon Global Experience it is today: A clear demonstration of commitment to supporting the professional community at all levels. The hairdressing industry has never been sitting still, but the scale with which this industry has changed in the past few years has been unprecedented. To reflect this change and to make this unique educational opportunity available to even more stylists, it is time for the next evolution of the event. Kao Salon Division will pause the live event in 2024 to reimagine the experience with the full creative input of their professional community and will relaunch in 2025 with a live program designed for a new generation of salon professionals.

“THE HAIRDRESSING INDUSTRY HAS NEVER BEEN SITTING STILL, BUT THE SCALE WITH WHICH THIS INDUSTRY HAS CHANGED IN THE PAST FEW YEARS HAS BEEN UNPRECEDENTED.” 35

RINGING IN THE NEW YEAR THIS TIME OF YEAR IS ALL ABOUT REFLECTION AND RESOLUTIONS, BUT FIRST, WE'VE GOT TO GET THROUGH THE FESTIVE SEASON. THIS FEATURE, WE TALK ABOUT MAKING THE MOST OF THE REST OF '23, AND STARTING 2024 THE RIGHT WAY. 36

GROWTH FROM

ADVERSITY

WITH EIGHT SALONS IN COLORADO, THE PARLOUR IS ONE OF THE MOST SUCCESSFUL SALON BUSINESSES IN THE STATE. THE STORY OF THE PARLOUR SHOWS THAT BEAUTY CAN BE BORN IN THE MOST DIFFICULT OF CIRCUMSTANCES, AND THAT EDUCATION IS EVERYTHING. Looking at the success of The Parlour salons today, you would never know the challenges that Eugene (Gene) Chaill and his family were facing during its formative years. Gene told: “The Parlour was born under the toughest of circumstances, my father was tangled up in the S&L crisis, my parents’ marriage was in trouble, my career as a tournament golfer wasn’t working out, and my father’s legal defence took all our assets including our home. Life hit hard. My sister was a trained hairdresser, and I has a Real Estate and Finance degree, playing on the golf team for University of Denver. One Thanksgiving dinner, we decided to take a chance on ourselves and open up The Parlour. I sold anything left I had of value, a Rolex, my Harley, borrowed money from relatives and in March of 1989 signed a lease one block from the Pearl St. Mall in Boulder Colorado. We had to make this work.” And they did. In the following years, The Parlour grew and grew, location after location. Today, the Parlour has eight locations, and 132 employees.

“THE PARLOUR IS LIKE A 132 KEY PIANO, EVERY KEY BELONGS, NO WRONG NOTES, WE THRIVE WHEN EVERYONE IS IN TUNE AND RESPECTFUL OF EACH OTHER’S NOTES.”

That kind of success and growth doesn’t happen overnight. I asked Gene to tell us a bit about the ethos behind The Parlour brand, and what makes it unique. He said: “I believe you can’t make people good by law, building a business on a rulebook is not my idea of success, giving people the freedom to create their vision of their best self is my idea of success. The Parlour is like a 132 key piano, every key belongs, no wrong notes, we thrive when everyone is in tune and respectful of each other’s notes. “Our foundation starts with three expectations: tidying up OUR (not somebody else’s) weaknesses (tuning ourselves), respecting the evolution of others (life is hard, we all go through some very tough things) and look for the good in others (in an open work layout there is no place to hide, we must protect the room by pointing out the goodness in others). “The great sin for us is thinking we’re cooler than the person in front of us, whether it be a client an employee, the mailman, anyone we come into contact with, and our definition of integrity is sticking up for others when there not in the room to defend themselves, we can’t be the judge and the jury without hearing the other side.” Through these values and guidance, Gene has built a strong sense of community within the team. I asked how he is able to ensure that all staff across the many locations are unified and on the same page. He explained: “We devote every Monday, each week, to getting better. This is everything to us. We’re not interested in building a rulebook to micromanage the small percentage of people who want others to manage goodness into them, or to see how much they can get away with, instead we ask you to SHOW us who you are on Mondays. Can you be to work on time? Do you come to work ready and eager to learn? Can you test out of our requirements? How do you behave when a model cancels? What do you do when you don’t have a model? Can you look for the good in others or would you rather look for the problems in others? Do you pay attention or do you text during presentations? Do you take your career seriously? Can you laugh? Can you build a clientele? Do you have a servant’s heart?

“AROUND THE HOLIDAYS, WE CELEBRATE OUR MOST LOYAL CLIENTS WITH GIFTS, WE HAVE IN SALON PARTY DAYS, FILLED WITH TREATMENTS, ENTERTAINMENT, SPECIAL PRICING AND HOSTED BY OUR VENDORS.” “We don’t believe in three interviews and then you can work on our clients, we want to see how you behave for an entire year before I’ll let you work next to our veterans and take care of our clients. Because of what we do on Monday, we’ve become a business that smiles, we have long-term relationships with employees and clients (34 years for both), and our economic engine is driven since day one by referrals.” The December/ January period is always a unique and testing time of year in salons. While December can be overwhelmingly busy, January sales often tend to drop off. I asked Gene to tell us a bit about what he has learned over the years about the best ways to deal with this time period. Starting with the holiday period, Gene said: “The holiday season feels extremely busy, but mostly because we can do slightly more business than any other time of the year, but in fewer days. The combination of fewer days and more business can make it feel crazy. We split our busiest month of

the year between August some years and December other years, mostly because both are 31-day months, but there aren’t any holidays in August. “Around the holidays, we celebrate our most loyal clients with gifts, we have in salon party days, filled with treatments, entertainment, special pricing and hosted by our Vendors. And we celebrate big time with a year-end party where we host 250 people at some of Denver’s best venues, for one night we all come together in one room, to laugh, tell stories, celebrate, and thank those who’ve made a difference in our world. “We end our Education Mondays for the year in Mid-November, so our assistant team can pick up another day to support our educators and clients in the day to day, and our education team can devote their entire schedule to our clients. We spend time during this six week break along with a European trip during the summer to recalibrate, make changes and adjustments to our inside education.” Instead of dreading the January blues, Gene and his team actually look forward to the month. “January is exciting because we jump right back into our Monday education days and depending on how the holiday dates fall, Christmas in the middle of the week vs Christmas on a Sunday will determine if we need some time to recover in January or not. January is just as busy as any other month; it just depends on whether or not we need some vacation days to recover from December or not.” R+Co, Kerastase and Wella are the main brands that The Parlour salons retail and use. For Gene, education is a priority when it comes to selecting brands to use in the salons. He explained: “Twice

a year, we have Seminar Parlour, where the best talent in the industry associated with our vendors spend one full day offsite with our team. They also host our phase directors in Europe, our education team in Miami and our recent “Monday” graduates in Miami. Several times a year our ownership participates in a three-day business workshop, this year we were in Santa Barbara and Amelia island. We fully support our vendors lines with substantial purchases and in return we expect the strongest education from them and a platform for our hairdressers to join our vendors artistic teams.” With as many locations as The Parlour has, managing booking and services, while staying consistent and user friendly for clients can be complicated. But The Parlour has the right technology on side to help them stay organised. Gene said: “We run Phorest POS and Vish color management software. Phorest allows us to have one database, any operating system, our own branded app for our clients, book from past history allowing timing down to the minute on future appointments, check out clients from our phone and the ability to interact with our clients through an internal chat feature and so much more. “Vish allowed us to reduce color waste by as much as 20% on some individuals and 11% as a business. That means 11% less waste in our garbage and drains, 11% saved in orders, 11% less deliveries, packaging, and 11% less time for staff to check in orders, break down boxes etc. Color formulas are shared in Phorest across all locations and clients can reminisce about their color two falls ago and we can see the exact formula in their history.”

For salon owners who are thinking of expanding their salons in 2024, here’s Gene’s advice: “I had to earn the right to expand and for me that meant I had to do well enough in one location that I could save up the money to do the second location without having to borrow money. I understand the reasons for leveraging expansion with outside investment but my personality, my risk tolerance and the storms that come with being in business made being debt free the only path for me.”

“TWICE A YEAR, WE HAVE SEMINAR PARLOUR, WHERE THE BEST TALENT IN THE INDUSTRY ASSOCIATED WITH OUR VENDORS SPEND ONE FULL DAY OFFSITE WITH OUR TEAM.”

BY STEPHANIE YAGGY LAVERY, MIA SECRET EXECUTIVE PUBLISHING ADVISOR

Photography// Gaby Torres/ Mia Secret

‘TIS THE Photography// Mia Secret

SEASON It’s the most wonderful time of the year. ... At least, the holidays can be, provided your salon is prepared for the rush. Between the last-minute appointments, sudden cancelations, seasonal colds, holiday celebrations and more, there’s no time like the present to start getting your salon in order! Use these tips to help you come up with a game plan, get your retail area ready and spark some seasonal nail art ideas that your clients are sure to adore.

HANDLING THE HOLIDAY HUSTLE Most salons and independent nail technicians alike have a good system in place for handling client flow throughout the year. But when the holiday start creeping up, that can all change pretty quickly. Everyone is extra busy at this time of the year, clients in particular. And unfortunately, sometimes their nails — and your time! — are the first to suffer. But there are things you can do to help alleviate that strife if you plan in advance and alert your clients and staff to any changes sooner rather than later. SEASONAL STRATEGY #1: CREATE A CANCELLATION POLICY Your regular client may show up to her appointments on time, without a miss, 11 months out of the year. But come December, when work, family and Christmas obligations arise, suddenly she cancels at the last minute. “OK,” you think; “it’s only one time and one client. I can shuffle my schedule around.” Think again. If your most dependable client suddenly skips out, what do you think is going to happen with new and unpredictable clients? Don’t forget that you’re busy, too, and you shouldn’t be catering your schedule to accommodate everyone else. That’s why it’s important to create a cancellation policy. Truly, it’s a good idea to have one year round, but certainly during the holiday rush. Ask clients to book with a credit card, and let them know that if they cancel within 24 hours, their credit card will be charged. SEASONAL STRATEGY #2: OFFER LAST-MINUTE OPENINGS ON SOCIAL MEDIA Once you have a cancellation policy set, hopefully you’ll eliminate many of those no-shows. However, you will inevitably still get some cancellations, but you should get at least 24-hour notice allowing you to fill those spots if you have clients waiting in the wings. Encourage your clients to follow your Instagram (or other social media) page, and let them know that you’ll be releasing appointments as they become available on a first come, first serve basis. Not only will this allow you to fill empty slots, but you’ll also increase your social media following.

SEASONAL STRATEGY #3: ENLIST EVERYONE’S HELP From attending to clients and decorating the salon to selling retail and keeping the back bar organized, there’s no shortage of tasks, especially during the holiday rush. Combine that with the fact that it’s also the beginning of cold and flu season and it’s a sure bet that at least one of your staff will call in sick at some point — which means you’re going to need all hands on deck. It’s pretty common and good practice to restrict staff vacation in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Ask your staff ahead of time to chip in where and when they can to help out, whether that’s starting a pedicure while her scheduled tech finishes her previous client or offering waiting clients a beverage or even filling in if someone gets sick. GETTING RETAIL READY If you don’t have retail available, particularly during the holidays, then you’re missing out on some serious revenue. Remember, ’tis the season of giving, and your clients are going to want to pick up gifts where they can. If you don’t have a retail space available already, you can set up small tables around the salon or even at the front desk featuring giftable items. Make sure to spend some extra time decorating your retail space with twinkling lights, fir branches, ornaments or whatever else will draw the eye. Don’t just display product; make it enticing! Most nail manufacturers release gift sets and miniature items around the holidays, so make sure to check in with your distributor or beauty supply to see what’s available. Often they come in adorable holiday-themed packaging that makes them even more alluring to clients looking to shop. Consider gifting regular/special clients with miniature items to try out in the months leading up to the holiday season, like tiny bottles of cuticle oil or lotion. Then encourage them to stock up on stocking stuffers or gifts for friends with holiday retail too!

“’TIS THE SEASON OF GIVING, AND YOUR CLIENTS ARE GOING TO WANT TO PICK UP GIFTS WHERE THEY CAN!” 40

Photography// Michell Rosario

NAILING CHRISTMAS DESIGNS Even the most conservative clients can’t help but be wooed with holiday nail designs; they’re just so fun and festive! From bows and holly to Santas and snowmen, there are so many ways to add some holiday flair to your manicures. Check out some of our favorites below to give you some inspo, as well as the products you can use to achieve them.

Photography// Mia Secret

PRODUCTS:

Mia Secret Metallic Flakes, CH-21 Mia Secret Metallic Flakes, CH-39 Mia Secret Red Gift Nail Art Powder Collection Mia Secret Galaxy Nail Art Powder Collection Mia Secret Gelux in Red Mia Secret Gelux in Dark Moss Mia Secret Gelux in Gold Shower

41 MIASECRETSTORE.COM

Nail Artist: Gabriela Torres (Mia Secret Educator, USA) | Photographer: Anthony Rojo | Model: Gabriela Torres

VISIONS FROM THE HAIRVOYANT

WE CAUGHT UP WITH TOM SMITH, THE CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF EVO HAIR, OLAPLEX ARTIST, INTERNATIONAL ARTIST IN RESIDENCE AT BILLI CURRIE LONDON, AND TREND FORECASTING EXPERT, TO FIND OUT THE BIGGEST STYLING AND CUTTING TRENDS THAT WILL TAKE HOLD THIS SEASON, AND SET US UP FOR A GORGEOUS 2024. With 16 years behind him as a hairdresser, and three years as a Trend Forecaster, Tom has an incredible eye for predicting and spotting looks that turn into extremely influential trends. Tom shares what he is anticipating for winter 2023, and the trends that will take us into 2024. Tom said: “As we move into the cooler months, we’ll have a shift towards longer hairstyles and richer, warmer colors. The cosy winter aesthetic

pairs perfectly with longer haircuts, tucked into oversized jackets and brighter hair colours, which add energy, playfulness and light into grey weather and darker days. “This season, the focus is heavily on texture (all within hair styling, cuts and color) and symmetry, with a strong pull toward center partings and balanced, elongated silhouettes.”

Cuts & Styles

1. Neptune Waves

As seen on: Serena Williams, Lady Gaga, Gigi Hadid This is a grittier and edgier version of the Botticelli Waves of last year, being more fluid and stretched out. This ‘S’ shaped wave is most often paired with a middle parting and lots of volume. This is a great option for those who have a bit of texture already in the hair.

2. The Veil

As seen on: Emma Mackey, Olivia Rodrigo, Selena Gomez Romantic, Ethereal, and Statuesque – these three words perfectly describe this look. For anyone who has hair longer than their shoulders, this look high impact, low effort. Its perfect for a clean, minimal aesthetic, or paired with a cold earring.

4. Le Petit Bob

3. Stretched Mullet

As seen on: Doja Cat, Julia Fox For all those statement-making clients, this style is a cool evolution from the shag and the mullet, and this might be the most unusual interpretation yet. If the client already has a Wolfcut, mullet, or shag, this can be easily achieved by adding extensions in the nape area for that dramatic effect.

5. Skinny Lob

As seen on: Daisy Edgar Jones, Stella McCartney, Alexa Chung The beauty of the long bob has been getting steadily more popular through the year, and the final evolution for this shape is a slimmer, headhugging lob with straighter sides and softer ends. Obvious layers are nowhere to be seen and is often paired with a soft natural wave.

As seen on: Linda Evangelista, Lily Allen Bobs have been shrinking for a while, and this sharp new style might be as tiny as a bob can go before it becomes a totally new shape. This shape is the sassy sister of the ‘French Girl Bob’ and can be a great option for those growing out a crop or a buzzcut that we saw last year.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT THE GUYS! HERE ARE THE TOP STYLING PICKS FROM RIKKI HIXX TO KEEP HIS CLIENTS STYLED TO PERFECTION IN 2024!

STYLING TRENDS FOR MEN 1. 18.21 Man Made Sweet Tobacco Clay

Function: I use this on dry hair for prepping before blowdrying, This clay helps keep lift and a natural look before using a finishing product. Style: textured and messy crops. Application: Warm in the hands with substantial amount before light scrunching through the hair. This avoids hardenss or clumpiness. Apply damp before blow drying.

2. 18.21 Man Made Sweet Tobacco Paste

Function: Smoothens and refines texture while controlling frizz. It leaves client’s hair soft with a semiglossy authentic finish. Style: I use the paste for shag styles because it moisturises the longer hair keeping it healthy. Application: This product is creamy

and easy to apply. Take a dime-size amount of product and rub through palms well and through fingers. I always use my hands as a rake to pull product lightly through the hair. When applied correctly, the client should feel like they aren’t wearing any products at all.

3. 18.21 Man Made Sweet Tobacco Premium Hairspray Function: This is especially great because it smells so good! Style: Natural touchable, lightweight looks can be achieved here on curls and straight hair. This is also great for finer hair, avoiding crispness and damage. Application: I use this spray at the root of the hair to get that lift at the front. Hold hairspray 6-9 inches from your hair. Spray the entire surface. If needed, layer more to add hold to your style.

T heBeautyof

WITH ANNA MANUKYAN

FINANCE

REVIEW & RESOLUTION WHAT IS YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION? MAYBE IT IS TO LEARN A NEW SKILL, ADD A NEW SERVICE TO YOUR MENU, OR MAYBE IT IS SELF-CARE ORIENTED, LIKE EATING HEALTHIER OR WALKING MORE. ONE GOAL WE SHOULD ALL HAVE IS TO IMPROVE OUR FINANCIAL HEALTH IN 2024. HERE’S MY ADVICE: As we reach the end of the year, it is incredibly important to carve time out of our busy schedules to reflect on our finances from the past year and make a plan for the year to come. Our purchasing power is actively decreasing due to the rising cost of inflation, we need to be aware not only of what we’re bringing in but what we’re keeping. Our clients may be looking for ways to save as well, let’s say that a client that you’re used to seeing every six weeks, starts coming in every eight weeks. With an average ticket of $150.00, that doesn’t seem like a huge deal, right? It still feels like you’re seeing that client all the time. Except, that’s now two visits fewer a year, and $300.00 less in your pocket. You may be thinking that’s not a huge loss, but that’s one client. What if 10, 20, or 30 of your clients started doing so? You could be losing almost $10k annually, and still be seeing your clients ‘all the time’. Prioritizing your business and finances is essential to having a long-term strategy to outpace inflation, and client attrition and to have a financially successful career.

off $12,000 per child? The answer to both of those questions is yes. There are money-saving strategies that we don’t often take advantage of because we don’t know how they can benefit us.

Preparing for Tax Season

Budgets can be daunting. Setting goals ahead of time and automating transfers into a high-yield savings account and your retirement account monthly gets it out of the way and you don’t have to constantly think about it. Pretend that those two accounts are like your rent or montage payment. They’re nonnegotiable bills you have to pay, except you are paying yourself. High-yield saving accounts are great for short-term goals and emergency funds, and your retirement fund is essential, we have a retirement crisis in our industry. It’s hard to think about, but years are flying by faster than ever. The sooner you start, the quicker that money will grow for your future self!

It's coming up as the most wonderful time of the year. And no, I’m not talking about the holidays, I am talking about tax season! Let’s be honest, taxes are never fun, and tax laws changing to include Venmo and Zelle are going to be an adjustment. Create a plan with your CPA on what this means for you and what you should be prepared for. Many of us meet with our accountants once a year, try to do so quarterly and leverage their expertise in more ways than just preparing our taxes. For example, ask them if opening an IRA can reduce your annual taxes now while saving for retirement. Can you employ your child ethically and write

Reviewing Your Finances Here are some questions you can ask yourself when reviewing your previous year’s finances, in order to get a picture of how to improve for the year to come: • How much more does it cost me to work? Do my books and prices reflect that? • How much more do my living expenses cost vs previous years? What do I need to do differently in my business to live well? Annual price adjustment? New service offerings? Focusing on rebooking? • What does working smarter vs harder look and mean for me? • Have I set up an automated high-yield savings account and retirement account?

Budgeting & Goal Setting for 2024

"TAXES AREN'T FUN! LAWS NOW INCLUDE VENMO AND ZELLE, WHICH IS GOING TO BE AN ADJUSTMENT. CREATE A PLAN WITH YOUR CPA TO SEE WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR BUSINESS." The fundamentals of a solid financial foundation:

Protection of your assets, with yourself being the most important asset you have. If something happens to your ability to work for several months, does that mean game over to your entire financial foundation? Unfortunately, it usually does, unless you have insurance. I’ve seen it happen to people at the height of their careers, and they lost everything they worked decades for as a result. Know how to protect yourself.

Make a plan to get out of debt. Consumer debt is highly predatory, and your debt will accumulate more debt quickly with rising interest rates. The snowball method is a good way to approach creating a payoff plan if you have several credit cards you’re struggling to pay off. You can link on the QR code to get a free personal copy.

Create an emergency fund. Ideally, you need six to12 months of living expenses saved…that may sound next to impossible, let’s start with having one week, then two, and work your way up to one month. Millions of hard-working people still live paycheck to pay check. We work too hard not to have enough, and prioritize putting away a specific amount every week, or even every day. Did you know that saving or spending $38 per day will either save you or cost you $10,000 annually? Small amounts add up to large amounts over time if we’re consistent.

Invest your money in long-term investments. Open a brokerage account where you can buy different securities like shares of the S&P 500. A brokerage account is like a bank account but it holds your investments…you can buy and trade shares of stock as well as have your retirement account live in your brokerage account. There are a lot of online resources breaking down how to do so. Check out my TikTok: beautyfinancethings for some! Set achievable goals you can accomplish daily, weekly, and monthly, and be kind to yourself in the process!

Photography// Jean Ho

Products to watch out for in 2024!

Nails// Tamara Di Lullo, Valerie Ducharme, Emily Nash.

THE YEAR TO NAIL

NAIL ART! 2023 WAS A WILD YEAR FOR NAIL ART, BUT WHAT WILL WE BE SEEING IN 2024? CO-FOUNDER AND STYLE DIRECTOR OF CND, JAN ARNOLD TELLS US HER HIGHLIGHTS OF 2023, AND SHARES HER NAIL VISIONS FOR ’24! Looking back on 2023 “2023 was a wild and eclectic year filled with experimental and over the top designs, inspired by innovative color and new science,” said Jan as she took us through her favorite designs of 2023. “We started the year with our spring Shade Sense collection which featured magical pastels that stretched pigments to another dimension of unexpected illusion and color travel. We played with patterns and shapes for a fresh perspective to nail artistry.” This mentality continued into summer with Bizarre Beauty featuring bold, solid colors and chunky textures. Jan said: “These colors inspired extreme nail lengths, surreal shapes and unique techniques that would rival Dali’s creativity in his day!” Fall brought in CND’s Upcycle Chic collection: “An exploration and celebration of denim with wabi-sabi art for an effortless look and clashing patterns. Perfectly imperfect, making it very wearable.”

For winter, we closed the year with the Magical Botany collection, which was a fanciful, dark dramatic adventure with over-scale botanicals that emerged from the frozen forest, as well as on nails. Looking Forward to 2024 “2024 will feature a shift away from extremism and become more spiritual, virtual, and trippy,” explained Jan. Spring: “We will see medium to longer lengths and softened stilettos, coffins and almonds with hand painted or stamped stars, eyes, and freshly foraged crystals from the earth.” As we enter summer: “We will see translucency mixed with carefully curated creams for love, light, and good fortune.” Fall: “Will merge nature and science for a versatile duality.” And the holidays: “Will feature pure fantasy with nails you’ve never seen before. It will be legendary and majestic for both the pro and customer.” Colors, Textures, Shapes What colors and tones will take hold in 2024? Jan explained: “Colors/tones will feature top notes and undertones that play in concert and in contrast, depending on how they’re paired. Creams and jellies will be mixed for provocative result and best for longer lengths. Colors are illuminated and zen.” For patters and textures, Jan said: “Patterns and textures in 2024 will bring inspiration, motivation and calm to the wearer. “Length and shapes serve as appropriate canvases for the level of design desired. Longer nails work well for more extravagance. Medium for simple luxury. And super short for a cheap thrill.”

Jan said: “Nails are the ultimate accessory to fashion and style, so they become a thoughtful element in how we dress today. No longer just for grooming, nails become the accent, the jewelry and statement piece of a look that will express unique stye. Technology has enabled everyone to wear anything from simple color to dramatic art with confidence and ease.”

L&P offers the strongest and most dynamic length and shape, for even the most problematic nails. Look to new CND™ Odorless Sculpting Liquid and CND™ Perfect Color Powder to offer customizable options for transformational nail makeovers. Great for biters, ski-jump nails.

CND Brisa™ hard gel can create crystal clear tips and elongated beds, while creating the toughest level of protection for nails needing strength and illusion. Look for CND™ Brisa™ Glass for truly crystalclear nails which are expensive-looking and incredibly durable.

CND Plexigel™ is a lightweight and natural-looking option for enhancement and extension, as well as a quick fix for a broken nail when needed. Look to CND Plexigel™ Color Builder to match and complement every skin tone for a go-to neutral base. From there, you can go wild with art!

Weakened or damaged nails? CND®Strengthener RXx is a nail treatment formulated with a blend of powerful ingredients. This gentle and quick drying enamel acts as a protective barrier to help build and repair, leaving nails feeling stronger. CND™ SolarOil™ continues to be a best selling cuticle and nail care conditioner. The jojoba oil carries all the deeply penetrating ingredients into the nail layers and surrounding skin. This plasticizes the coating for longevity and resilience.

ULTA BEAUTY COLLECTION’S 12 DAYS OF BEAUTY ANDIS CERAMIC REPLACEMENT BLADES

This makeup countdown is the perfect gift for you or anyone beauty-obsessed. Inside each box is a limited-edition mini surprise, try not to peak! Includes: Eye Shadow Quad, Cream Eye Shadow, Gel Eye Liner, Brow Gel, Eye Shadow Primer, Blush, Highlighter, Lipstick, Matte Lip Cream, Lip Gloss, Lip Mask, Makeup Sponge.

Andis has expanded its Professional Ceramic Blade Line to include replacement blades for its most iconic clippers and trimmers. Ceramic blades run 75% cooler, offer better rust and corrosion resistance and have a longer-lasting edge than traditional stainless-steel blades.

$22.00// ulta.com

MIA SECRET MINI ELECTRIC PEN DRILL The ultimate tool for nail enthusiasts. Its compact size ensures portability and easy storage. Enjoy a peaceful nail session with its low-noise operation. Take command of your nail art with precision using the speed control and LED display. And with its direction adjustability, you can perfect your nail styling with ease. Elevate your nail game with our Electric Nail Pen Drill today.

$59.99// miasecretstore.com

andis.com

WAHL PROFESSIONAL 5 STAR HI-VIZ™ TRIMMER Introducing the Wahl Professional 5 Star Hi-Viz™ Trimmer. Wahl knows it takes more than flash to make a perfect trimmer. Wahl’s latest innovation is the perfect trimmer for barbers and stylists who live for the details. Essential for blade work, details and lines, this new trimmer has precision blades, adaptive speed control and an ergonomic design for an easier full day’s work.

NEW YEAR UNITE SILKY: SMOOTH HYDRATING COMPLEX This deep penetrating conditioner has a blend of plant cells and vegetable fats that moisturizes and strengthens the hair.

$36.00/unitehair.com

$199.00//wahlpro.com

SWEET TOBACCO PREMIUM HAIRSPRAY WAHL PROFESSIONAL POWER STATION™ Have it your way with the customizable Wahl Professional Power Station™. This premium, weighted power station charges three Wahl Professional cordless clippers, trimmers or shavers with one cord and includes a USB-C port for phone or iPad charging. Six included tool inserts mean you can mix and match any combination of tools to charge – all in one space-saving design.

Flexible Hold, Low Shine Hairspray. If you’re looking for a natural, lasting finishing spray to style thick, thin, wavy, or straight hair, look no further than this all-purpose hair spray. It’s paraben-free and comes in a masculine aroma influenced by sweet Virginia tobacco and the roaring spirit of Prohibition-era speakeasies.

$16.80 // 1821manmade.com

$199.00//wahlpro.com

ONE BY IBE® A micro weft that eliminates return hair and allows for ease of customization by cutting anywhere along the weft line without risk of damage or unravelling. Variety of colors, textures and lengths.

Apply for stylist pricing // invisiblebeadextensions.com

CND - MAGICAL BOTANY COLLECTION Be inspired by holiday glamour and the enchanting essence of nature. Available in both CND™ SHELLAC™ Gel Polish and CND™ VINYLUX™ Long Wear Polish. Including colors like Midnight Flight, Forevergreen, It’s Getting Colder, Frost Bite, Poison Plum, Scarlet Letter.

cnd.com

R+CO ANTIGRAVITY THICKENING KIT The perfect mini set for weightless volume + thickening. Defy gravity with these hairamplifying minis. Includes: R+Co DALLAS Biotin Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner Mini, DALLAS Thickening Spray Mini, BALLOON Dry Volume Spray Mini, R+Co Metallic Bag.

$48.00//randco.com

A Year in Review

WITH OVER 100 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN THE BARBERING INDUSTRY, WAHL PROFESSIONAL HAS NEVER STOPPED EVOLVING AND INNOVATING. FROM THEIR TOOLS TO THEIR EDUCATION, THE PROFESSIONAL IS ALWAYS KEPT AS A PRIORITY. WE SPOKE TO THE LEADERS OF WAHL FOR A LOOK BACK ON ALL OF THE SUCCESSES AND STEPS FORWARD MADE IN 2023. A Look Back on Education in 2023 Education has always been a major priority for Wahl Professional, and 2023 has been a breakthrough year with many of the company’s long-term goals coming to fruition. Director of Global Education for Wahl Professional, Stephanie Polansky gave us her thoughts about the advancements made in 2023: “We have made significant strides in Global Education, revolutionizing the way hair professionals learn and grow in the barbering industry. My focus since I became the Director of Global Education has been on global collaboration, innovation, and accessibility to education on a worldwide basis. In 2023 Wahl introduced several ground-breaking

initiatives that empower barbers and hairdressers around the world to become better at their craft. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have joined a brand that wholeheartedly embraces the importance of education, recognizing it as the cornerstone of our company.” The Future Makers™ Collection: “One of the highlights of Wahl's Global Education developments is the Future Makers Collection. This unique collection, created by ten Wahl Educators from eight countries, showcases the latest hair trends happening worldwide. These educators bring their diverse perspectives and expertise to create a collection that reflects the global nature of hair trends. The Future Makers Collection serves as an inspiration for hair professionals, encouraging them to explore new styles and techniques. The Future Makers Collection is taught in all our countries to help us build a stronger community with the same focus and direction.” Education on Demand: “Wahl has also launched a game-changing platform called Education on Demand. This global initiative provides barbers and hairdressers with 24/7 access to a wealth of educational resources. Featuring content from educators around the globe, this platform allows professionals to strengthen their craft at their own pace and convenience.

Whether it's learning new cutting techniques or staying updated on industry trends, Education on Demand ensures that education is readily available to hair professionals worldwide.” Global Advanced Barbering Academy Seminars: “To further elevate the skills of hair professionals, Wahl has introduced the Global Advanced Barbering Academy Seminars. These seminars, designed for the global community, offer an immersive learning experience at the state-of-the-art Wahl Barber Academy. Led by the esteemed coaches from the Future Makers team, these seminars provide hands-on barbering and in-depth knowledge on how to properly use your clippers to achieve the best results. Participants not only learn advanced techniques but also gain valuable insights on how to strengthen and grow their business behind the chair.” The Appointment of Missy Jacobs as the new USA Education Development Leader: Wahl Professional appointed Missy Jacobs as the new USA Education Development Leader. Missy brings over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry. Missy recently served as the Director of Education for Sexy Hair and STMNT under the Henkel umbrella. In her new role, Missy will be responsible for helping grow and strengthen education in the USA. She will also work closely with the Global Education Team on content creation to continue to strengthen their position as a global leader.

Icons of Wahl Campaign In 2023, Wahl made the iconic move of crossing into the world of music, with their Icons of Wahl Campaign, in which they fused the sound of Wahl’s most iconic barbering clippers with original music tracks. Every Wahl clipper has its own distinct vibration, tone, and pitch, creating a symphony of sound that is unmistakable to those who wield these legendary tools. This year, Wahl took their most iconic tools, paired with some of their iconic educators, to record songs, reminiscent of the unique world of the barbershop. You've got to hear it! wahlpro.com/icons Photography// Future Makers Collection

“WITH OVER 100 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE [...], WE WILL CONTINUE TO STAND APART FROM OUR COMPETITION WITH OUR WORLD-RECOGNIZED QUALITY IN BOTH OUR TOOLS AND IN EDUCATION.” A Look Back on the Tools of 2023

The Wahl Hi-Viz™ Trimmer

In terms of tool innovations, the research and development team at Wahl Professional has been undoubtably busy. Here’s a look back on Wahl’s launches and advances of 2023:

This ground-breaking tool represents the pinnacle of precision and is set to revolutionize blade work, detailing, and clean lines for barbers and stylists alike.

Wahl Professional Power Station™

The Wahl Hi-Viz is.. • Engineered for perfection, for professionals who demand flawless results. • Designed for maximum visibility with advanced precision blades. • Features adaptive speed control and an ergonomic ComfortCurve™ design. • Includes Wahl's proprietary wide T-Blade with DLC coating for precision and low temperatures.

In February 2023, Wahl Professional announced a first-of-its kind Power Station, allowing pros the ability to charge three tools at once. Barber professionals commonly use many different tools throughout the day, and during a single haircut. In response, Wahl designed the most efficient charging station on the market. The innovative Wahl Professional Power Station quickly charges three Wahl Professional cordless clippers, trimmers, or shavers – in the time it takes to charge one – with one space-saving cord. It also includes one USB-C port, perfect for charging a phone or payment processing device. Vice President of Innovation and Insights, Mike Wahl said: “We go to great lengths to listen to the barber/stylist community in order to create new products that will make them even better at their craft – whether that is continuously upgrading our tools, anticipating an unmet need, or developing something entirely new for the industry."

5 Star Cordless Barber Combo™: New Cordless Clipper and Trimmer Set In July 2023, Wahl Professional offered a perfect example of the way they constantly listen to the wants and needs of professionals. This exceptional combo pairs Wahl's bestselling professional cordless clipper and trimmer in one convenient package. With an upgraded motor on the clipper, DLC blades, and a sleek design, this duo is set to optimize every barber’s workspace.

Looking ahead to 2024: Looking ahead, Wahl Global Education has exciting plans in store for the industry, from education to new innovations. Professionals can expect: • Four new Global Advanced Barbering Seminars to be held at the state-of-the-art Wahl Barber Academy in Chicago. • The introduction of the Future Makers Volume 2 collection featuring 11 Wahl Educators from eight different countries. This collection will showcase even more diverse perspectives and cutting-edge trends from around the world, inspiring both barbers and hairdressers to push boundaries and explore new creative possibilities. • The expansion of Education On Demand offerings. In the coming months, barbers and hairdressers can expect new advanced additions to the platform, including a language translator and classes in multiple languages to continue to foster a truly global learning community. Lastly, Wahl is working diligently on revolutionary initiatives that will reshape the industry. While we cannot disclose the details at this moment, rest assured that these upcoming developments will push the boundaries of what is possible in barbering education. Stephanie said: “With over 100 years of experience, and being the company that created the first clipper, we will continue to stand apart from our competition with our world-recognized quality in both our tools and in education.”

WHAT ARE YOU SETTING YOUR MIND TO THIS YEAR? WAHL EDUCATOR, DIRECTOR OF HAIR LAB DETROIT BARBER SCHOOL, AND NAHA EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR 2023, RODRICK SAMUELS IS ALL ABOUT HELPING BARBERS AND STYLISTS BRING THEIR DREAMS TO LIFE AND REACH THEIR CAREER GOALS. RODRICK SHARED SOME OF HIS BEST ADVICE FOR ACHIEVING YOUR GOALS IN THE YEAR TO COME.

“For any barbers and stylists out there who are looking to elevate their career in 2024, I think it is important to do these three things,” Rodrick explained. “Number one, choose your hard. I think a lot of the time we avoid change because it's hard. It is uncomfortable. But I think that you should gravitate more to those things that make you uncomfortable. If you’re not proficient in styling longer hair, or you’re not proficient in braiding or doing locs or whatever, you should gravitate towards these hard things, not away from them. “Number two, remember your ‘why’. It is so important every once in a while, to remind ourselves why we love what we do. What drove you to this industry? What makes you passionate about what you do? Oftentimes, our day-to-day lives and stress pull our attention away from that ‘why’, but we have to remind ourselves so that we can become reinspired and push ourselves to do greater things. “The third thing is to always be reinventing yourself. An object at rest stays at rest. If you

continue to do the same thing year in, and year out and expect a different result, we know that is the definition of insanity. So, I think it’s always important to reinvent ourselves, whether that be offering a new service, changing up your own look, or maybe even moving to another location or working with a different demographic. To grow, we need to be comfortable with the uncomfortable.” This time of year is all about reflection on where you are, what you have achieved, and the targets you want to set for yourself for the year to come. For the ambitious folks out there who want to take 2024 to the next level, I asked Rodrick for his advice on setting goals. He said: “When I first started out in the industry, I would set both my long-term and short-term goals. You know, there’s the old adage that goes, ‘If you want to make the universe laugh, make plans.’ Initially, I just wanted to be a barber and do tapers and fades. Then I had a young lady come in to drop her son off to get a haircut, and I asked her, ‘Where are you off to?’ She said: ‘I am going to get a shampoo and a blow-out.’ And I was like, man, I just let $75.00 walk out that door. That was the very moment I decided to go to cosmetology school. “So, to answer your question, yes, I think setting goals is important for progression. However, the more experience I have gained, the more I have learned to trust the universe to help me navigate through what the future looks like. I would consider myself a bit of a big dreamer, but sometimes those dreams aren’t necessarily what is best. So, I tend to look back on my experiences and let my past help guide me to where I want to go. So, in sum, set goals, work hard, but also keep your eyes open to what else is out there, and let yourself change your path mid-route if it feels right. Listen to your heart, listen to your mind,

What are some of the Wahl Pro Education team’s goals for 2024?

“IF YOU WANT TO STEP YOUR GAME UP, YOU’VE GOT TO STEP YOUR NAME UP. AND THE NAME THAT EVERYBODY SHOULD BE SAYING IS WAHL.” and listen to your mentors, and you will end up where you need to be.” If you are a professional committed to stepping up your game, you need to ensure that your tools can keep up with you. That’s why Rodrick is a huge fan of Wahl Professional. He said: “I think that education and advancement in our industry is not an option, it is a must. To stay competitive, it is important to have the latest tools and implements, and I think that starts with Wahl. Wahl has spent countless amounts of time and money creating tools that are unique and that are filling the needs of barbers and stylists around the world. I think that with education, coupled with practical experience, and the right tools, any haircut is achievable. A lot of time I hear people make excuses about why they can’t do a certain technique or style, and a lot of the time is because they are not willing to invest in the latest innovations. They want to stick with what they know, and what is comfortable. But, if you want to step your game up, you’ve got to step your name up. And the name that everybody should be saying is Wahl.” We wanted to know Rodrick’s favorite Wahl tool to come out of 2023. He said: “I am a really big

fan of the Wahl Hi-Viz™ Trimmer, which is one of Wahl’s newest and most innovative tools. It keeps consistent blade speed all the way through contingent on the hair type and texture, and that’s something that is very revolutionary, especially with the diversity, inclusivity, and equity that we are pushing forth in our industry. This tool is made for every type of hair that you can name, meaning anyone has the tools to cut any hair type.” The other Wahl tool that helps stylists and barbers level up their game is their education. “In 2023, Wahl started their online academy. I think that having an on-demand education platform is revolutionary. The education that Wahl provides pros, especially under Stephanie Polansky, has been amazing. She's hyper-focused on making sure that our industry knows the importance of education, and is bringing in the right people to cover every single facet of education. Whether it be a fresh student or someone with 30 years of experience in the industry like me, there is always something to learn and gain. Wahl is giving professionals the resources they need to be successful, and they are making those resources accessible, and that’s what I really love.”

“In 2024, I'm eager to connect with fellow artists through Wahl. My passion lies in helping stylists and barbers discover their full potential and achieve success even in the face of adversity. My life experiences have taught me the importance of living a life that I'm proud of, and with Wahl, I look forward to all the doors that will be opened to help others do just that. “I'm thrilled to be a part of the Wahl Professional Education Team and to give back to an industry that has enriched my life in countless ways.” - Colleen “Coco” Brickley “In 2024, I’m looking forward to advancing in this industry with Wahl. My goal is to spark inspiration among my peers through my knowledge, passion, and determination. I'm excited to be a part of the Wahl family as I pursue this goal. Together, we'll pave the way for a brighter future in the industry.” - Brittany Calzada "My goal for 2024 is to dedicate more time to helping my clients feel like their best selves, and give them the best experience ever. To do that, I of course need my Wahl Professional tools at my station. A tool like the new Wahl Hi-Viz Trimmer will certainly help me to create that "best experience ever" I mentioned above! I can't wait to see what's next!" -Alessandro Comai

WHEN OUR BODIES AREN'T GETTING THE NUTRIENTS AND CARE THEY NEED, THE INTEGRITY AND WELLBEING OF OUR HAIR AND SKIN ARE OFTEN THE FIRST TO GO. LET'S TALK ABOUT HOW YOU CAN PROVIDE AND EDUCATE YOUR CLIENTS ABOUT THE CARE THEY NEED TO ENSURE THAT THEIR HAIR AND SKIN FEELS AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS.

HAIR & BEAUTY CARE 52

THE

REVOLUTION Photography // OLAPLEX

THE INTERNATIONAL HOUSEHOLD PHENOMENON OF OLAPLEX THAT WE KNOW AND LOVE TODAY HASN’T STOPPED MAKING HISTORY WITH ITS INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY AND DEDICATION TO TRANSFORMING HAIR HEALTH. WE SPOKE TO VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL EDUCATION, JOHN MORONEY TO FIND OUT ABOUT THE REVOLUTION THAT WAS STARTED BY OLAPLEX.

Why OLAPLEX is No. 1 “OLAPLEX is a once-in-a-generation phenomenon that has revolutionized the hair industry,” said John. “In the world of research and development across the hair industry, the ‘holy grail’ was to find a way to link back together the disulfide bonds that were broken during chemical processes. OLAPLEX found this ‘holy grail’ in the invention of the patented Bis-Aminopropyl Diglycol Dimaleate (“Bis-Amino” for short) – the ingredient that has invented a ground-breaking category and changed the industry forever.”

OLAPLEX has redefined the meaning of Bond Building. John explained: “There have been various brands making claims about ‘bond building’, but in the end, it all comes down to OLAPLEX’s patented Bond Building Technology™. The important thing to understand is there are three kinds of bonds: Hydrogen bonds, the weakest of the bonds, which can be broken and reformed very easily; Ionic bonds, which are usually broken due to a high

“OLAPLEX IS A ONCE-IN-A-GENERATION PHENOMENON IN THE HAIR INDUSTRY.” 53

pH, and repaired with a lower pH; and Disulfide bonds, which are the most important bonds within the hair, as they give the hair its strength and structure."

OLAPLEX’s patented Bond Building TechnologyTM, Bis-Amino, is so small that it penetrates deeper and faster than larger molecules. John said: “Bis-Amino is the only technology so small that it can go in and connect in two spots, meaning it can link to one broken disulfide bond on one side, and build a bridge to another disulfide bond on the other side. Nothing can do exactly what OLAPLEX does.”

This ground-breaking revelation from OLAPLEX has changed the industry and is the category that OLAPLEX leads. “OLAPLEX has given hairdressers the strongest tools in their toolbox,” said John. “We cannot stop the causes of hair damage, but with OLAPLEX, damage can be totally optional. When using OLAPLEX, stylists can ensure whenever they are offering chemical services like hair color, lightening, perming, or relaxing, they have confidence that their client’s hair will remain strong and healthy.” 

The Foundation of Creativity “BY ADDING OLAPLEX SERVICES IN THE SALON, EITHER AS STANDALONE TREATMENTS OR ALONGSIDE CHEMICAL SERVICES, YOU CAN TAKE YOUR SERVICES INTO A WHOLE NEW CATEGORY, BECAUSE YOU ARE NOT JUST DOING A COLOR SERVICE, YOU ARE DOING STRENGTHENING AND REPAIRING HAIR COLOR.”

“As a stylist myself, I have found that OLAPLEX really is the foundation of creativity. Because now I know I can create anything from a high lift blond, to a voluminous perm, to a super sleek straight look, while knowing the hair will be in great condition coming out of the process,” said Moroney. In addition to allowing artists to be more creative, there are many other business benefits of bringing OLAPLEX into the salon. “By adding OLAPLEX to nearly every service in the salon, either as standalone treatments or inside chemical processes, you can take your services to a whole new level. You are not just doing a color service

anymore, you are now offering strengthening and repairing hair. Because of this, you can raise the price of all your color services by around 15% or more. And clients generally are happy to pay extra, because they can see and feel the difference immediately and over time.”

The OLAPLEX journey does not stop in the salon, adding another level of benefits to your business. “From a retail standpoint, bringing OLAPLEX into your salon means that you have the power of a globally recognized brand in your salon, with a combined 3.9 million followers on social media. By becoming an OLAPLEX Certified Stylist, you can join our global Salon / Stylist Locator so that clients can find you and your salon!”

John breaks down OLAPLEX’s core products, and what they’re great for. “The professional services we offer are so versatile. Starting with the core products, we have OLAPLEX No. 1 Bond Multiplier and OLAPLEX No. 2. Bond Perfector. These are the brand’s original products, designed to be added into chemical treatments like coloring and perming, to strengthen and repair during and after services. The OLAPLEX No. 1 Bond Multiplier goes into your formula, and then you follow with OLAPLEX No. 2 Bond Perfector to flood the hair with the Bis-Amino to rebuild and reconnect those disulfide bonds.”

Stylists can also offer OLAPLEX No. 1 Bond Multiplier and OLAPLEX No. 2. Bond Perfector as a treatment or as a stand-alone to strengthen and repair the hair. For example, if your client has a special occasion coming up, why not sign your client up for a few rounds of OLAPLEX treatments, to get the hair into its most optimal condition for the big day? OLAPLEX Broad-Spectrum Chelating Treatment is another one of our hero products salons need to know about. John said: “A lot of people don’t realize how much build-up is deposited inside and outside the hair shaft every day. All of this build-up can affect the appearance of your hair! OLAPLEX Broad-Spectrum Chelating treatment has been clinically proven to remove buildup from nine types of metals and minerals in one treatment.

“IT’S ALL ABOUT HELPING SALONS SET THEMSELVES APART FROM THE COMPETITION, AND DRIVE CONSUMERS IN. THAT’S THE POWER OF OLAPLEX.”

Professionals First. OLAPLEX is a professional-first brand with a deep commitment to salons. “The power of OLAPLEX is not just the power of our technology, but our ability to drive clients towards salons and services. We’ve made it easy to access education and for you to gain your OLAPLEX Certification, which allows you to be added to the OLAPLEX Stylists / Salon locator.”

OLAPLEX is committed to education. “In the year to come, we are ramping up our education at OLAPLEX, especially with our dedication to salons and salon services. Watch for new innovations that will help salons build up their service menus. It’s all about helping salons set themselves apart from the competition, and drive clients in.” 

“AS A PROFESSIONAL HAIRDRESSER, I APPRECIATE THE FACT THAT OLAPLEX PRODUCTS ALLOW ME TO ACHIEVE INCREDIBLE RESULTS FOR MY CLIENTS WHILE ALSO KEEPING THEIR HAIR HEALTHY AND STRONG.”

“MY FAVORITE THING ABOUT OLAPLEX IS THAT IT STRENGTHENS HAIR…ONE THING EVERYONE CAN DO FOR HEALTHIER HAIR IS TO INCORPORATE OLAPLEX NO. 0 INTENSIVE BOND BUILDING HAIR TREATMENT AND NO. 3 HAIR REPAIR PERFECTOR INTO THEIR HAIR CARE REGIME.”

- SAMANTHA CUSICK

CHAD KENYON

WHAT ARE STYLISTS SAYING ABOUT OLAPLEX? WE SPOKE TO SOME OF OLAPLEX’S TOP AMBASSADORS AND CELEBRITY STYLISTS FOR THEIR THOUGHTS ON THE INNOVATIVE AND REVOLUTIONARY HAIRCARE BRAND.

“WHY DO I KEEP USING OLAPLEX? BECAUSE IT’S THE BEST, AND OLAPLEX IS THE ONLY COMPANY THAT HAS THE PATENTED FORMULATIONS THAT YOU CAN COUNT ON.”

“OLAPLEX TECHNOLOGY HAS CHANGED THE WAY I WORK WITH HAIR BECAUSE IT ALLOWS ME TO FEEL MORE CONFIDENT, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO REPETITIVE HEAT USE WITH THE TOOLS WE USE BECAUSE I SEE THE SAME HEADS OF HAIR ALL THE TIME AND I WORK ON THEM REGULARLY.” - HALLEY BRISKER

TRACEY CUNNINGHAM 56

BETTER SALON SERVICES, DOWN TO A SCIENCE. No.1 BOND MULTIPLIER™ + No.2 BOND PERFECTOR®

BROAD SPECTRUM CHELATING TREATMENT

This is the two-step professional system that changed the game. Together, No.1 and No.2 dramatically repair and help prevent hair damage during any color or chemical service or as a stand-alone treatment for any client.

Discover cortex-deep hair purification clinically proven to remove 98% of buildup in as little as 1 minute.* That means more consistent, predictable effects from chemical services, vibrant color results, and hair with more body and manageability.

“I know what color can do, what bleach and lightener can do. When you add OLAPLEX, everything changes.”

“AMAZING TREATMENT We just started using this in the salon it’s a 10 outta 10 for me it removes all the buildup so effortlessly and my clients love it!”

—Tracey Cunningham OLAPLEX Ambassador & Celebrity Colorist Explore the #1 Professional Bond-Building Brand.* Visit pro.olaplex.com and @olaplex

*Additional processing time may be needed based on hair type and condition.

GETTING TO THE ROOT OF HAIR HEALTH HAIR IS SO MUCH MORE THAN WHAT MEETS THE EYE. MINERAL BUILD-UP CAN BE AN ISSUE FOR A MYRIAD OF ISSUES. KATHERINE MADDOX TELLS US ALL ABOUT HOW MALIBU C HELPS PROFESSIONALS CATCH AND ADDRESS THIS COMMON ISSUE.

“WHEN I USE THE HEAD LAB® DIGITAL SCOPE, 98% OF THE TIME, THE CLIENT GOES, ‘OH MY GOD, HOW DO I GET THAT OFF.’”

As a wellness company that has been around for almost 40 years, Malibu C is committed to a lifestyle approach of Total Oxidation Management; combining topically applied, freshly activated antioxidant vitamins and making wise choices that minimize overexposure to oxidizing elements. Katherine explained: “In the United States, 85% of households have hard water, which is a huge issue because when you have mineral build-up in the hair, it can cause chemical reactions behind the chair. So, one of Malibu C’s first-ever formulations was the Crystal Gel, which uses our vitamin technology to draw out impurities in the hair, enhance texture, and condition the scalp.” A Healthy Scalp is the Foundation for Healthy Hair. Katherine said: “To have healthy hair, you must have a healthy scalp. As hairdressers, we usually look first at the health of the hair. But it is within the scalp and follicles where the root of many problems lies. Everything from hard water, medications, excess sebum, and scalp conditions, all cause build-up on the scalp. And this build-up can lead to problems down the line in terms of hair health, and also negative reactions to chemical treatments. “At Malibu C, we are encouraging hairdressers to get a good look at their client’s scalp as one of the first steps in their consultation. From there, they can assess the clients’ scalp health, and the amount of build-up on their scalp, and offer them our Head Lab®, to ensure the scalp is free of debris before you start your services.” A Head Spa is largely based on the concept of the Japanese movement that focuses on the health of the scalp with a holistic approach to hair care.

Seeing is Believing While Malibu C has the technology to properly cleanse and detox the scalp, until now we weren’t able to get a good look at the client’s scalp making it difficult to know the degree or severity of any scalp issues. That’s why Malibu C developed Head Lab® which is a system that includes a digital scope allowing the stylist to get microscopically close to the client’s scalp, and to show them in real-time (through wirelessly connecting to their device) the true state of their scalp. The scope allows you to see things like clogged follicles, mineral build-up, excess sebum build up, product build up and other scalp conditions. With photo and video capabilities, stylists can track their client’s progress from one session to the next, visualizing the benefits of Malibu C’s technology. Katherine said: “As stylists, we learn to know what build-up feels like in the hair, but our clients usually have no clue. So, I would say, when I use the Head Lab® Digital Scope, 98% of the time, the client goes, ‘Oh my god, how do I get that off.’ Our goal is never to make our client feel shame or embarrassment, the main thing is to show them – what we call ‘complex compounds’ of build-up, and educate them on the importance of cleansing it, especially before chemical treatments.” Boost Your Revenue “The great thing is, using Head Lab® immediately translates into dollars behind the chair because it is a treatment you can easily add onto their appointment. Then, we also offer our retail options. I never push retail onto my clients, but usually, when they see their scalp in that condition, they are committed to keeping it as clean as possible. I like to explain that the Head Lab® are like your trip to your dental hygienist, and then your retail products are your dentist-recommended toothpaste, brush, and floss.” The Malibu C Head Lab® digital scope is included as part of the Malibu C Head Lab Intro Kit, which also includes the the Head Lab® Crystal Gel, the UnDo-Goo Shampoo, and the new Miracle Repair with Cooling Menthol.

JOURNEY

T O

HEALTHY

HAIR

WHEN IT COMES TO UNDERSTANDING THE INS AND OUTS OF HAIR HEALTH AND ITS IMPORTANCE WITHIN THE SALON, VP OF GLOBAL EDUCATION FOR MOROCCANOIL, ROBERT HAM IS THE ONE TO TALK TO. ROBERT SHARES HIS TIPS ON HOW TO TACKLE HAIR HEALTH, AND HIS GO-TO PRODUCTS FOR EMBARKING ON YOUR HAIR HEALTH JOURNEY. Robert’s career jumpstarted when he decided to pursue his passion for hairstyling after graduating college in his hometown of North Carolina. He started working at a top salon in the region. After relocating to Chicago, Robert quickly made a name for himself, receiving the accolade of “Chicago’s Top Stylist” by Allure magazine. He explained: “I was then hired by Moroccanoil where I had the opportunity to work backstage at fashion shows, editorials, and celebrity events. New York and Australia Fashion Week, and designers such as Badley Mischka, Cushnie et Ochs, Dean Quinn, and Suboo are just some of the fashion and beauty luminaires with whom I’ve had the pleasure to work.” Fast forward to 2020, Robert was one of the movers and shakers in the creation of the stateof-the-art Moroccanoil Academy in New York City. “I facilitated the expansion of the brand’s digital offerings, as well as the launch of Moroccanoil Professionals. com—making top-tier education even more accessible to stylists around the world.” Robert said: “My journey in the haircare and beauty industry has been both surreal and rewarding, to say the least. Today, I oversee a global team of educators and industry experts and I’m committed to taking Moroccanoil Education into a fashion-forward, inclusive—and beautiful future.” I asked Robert what has stood out to him about Moroccanoil since the beginning of his journey with the brand. He said: “Professional stylists have always been at the heart and soul of the brand and that stood out to me the most. Moroccanoil was also founded on innovation. It is a brand that never stops seeking to find the next greatest product or tool to help our community achieve their best hair day.” Robert told us a little bit about the innovation behind every Moroccanoil product: “All Moroccanoil hair products are infused with argan oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids,

antioxidants, and vitamins. Argan oil is known to moisturize, nourish, and protect hair, promoting overall hair health.” He continued: “We also offer products that help maintain and extend the life of hair color, which is important for color-treated hair. Additionally, our products are sulfate-free, which is gentler on hair and helps maintain its natural oils and moisture balance.” In the hair and beauty industry, especially in the world of fashion and editorial, the focus is often on the result, rather than the health of the hair within. But for Robert and the team at Moroccanoil, hair health always comes first. He said: “I think that overall, keeping the health of your hair at the forefront with the right products and techniques can help you achieve and maintain hair that not only looks great but also feels great and contributes to your overall well-being. “Healthy hair looks better, feels softer, and has a natural shine. It contributes to your overall appearance and self-esteem. When hair is wellmaintained, you can achieve the length and style you desire. Healthy hair is easier to manage and style. It’s also less prone to frizz, tangling, and breakage, making your daily hair care routine simpler.”

“KEEPING THE HEALTH OF YOUR HAIR AT THE FOREFRONT WITH THE RIGHT PRODUCTS AND TECHNIQUES CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN HAIR THAT NOT ONLY LOOKS GREAT BUT ALSO FEELS GREAT AND CONTRIBUTES TO YOUR OVERALL WELL-BEING.” 59

ROBERT’S TOP TIPS Robert shares his solutions for healthy and happy hair of all types and textures. Colored Hair: “Our complete collection of in-salon, careinfused colors delivers long-lasting results and intense shine, maintaining integrity of the hair. The core of the Moroccanoil Professional Haircolor Collection is the proprietary ProArginine + ArganID® System. An amino acid that is found in the hair and therefore easily accepted by it, ProArginine works as an alkalizing agent that supports the color process, while ArganID® helps to repair and seal the cuticle.” Dry & Damaged Hair: “I would use the Moisture Repair Shampoo and Conditioner followed by Restorative Hair Mask.” Textured Hair: “Our Curl Range is great for wavy, curly, and coarse textures. It includes the Moroccanoil Curl Defining Cream, which features heatactivated technology that provides curl memory to fight frizz as well as the Curl Control Mousse to define and control curls. Finally, the Moroccanoil Intense Curl Cream is a leave-in conditioner that moisturizes.” Heat Protection: “Always use heat protectant. Perfect Defense protects from heat up to 450°F/230°C.” Retail Recommendations: “I recommend clients take home the Signature Moroccanoil Treatment. This pioneered oil-infused hair care and created the buzz on argan oil. It’s known for nourishing and conditioning hair and is used to reduce frizz, enhance shine, and improve the overall health of the hair. It’s versatile and good for all hair types.”

STAY SHARP FOR H A I R H EA LTH WHEN WE THINK OF HAIR HEALTH, USUALLY WE THINK ABOUT HAIR TREATMENTS, MASKS, CONDITIONERS, AND SO ON. BUT DID YOU KNOW THAT YOUR TOOLS CAN PLAY A BIG ROLE IN HAIR HEALTH TOO? WE SPOKE TO JARROD HARMS FROM TONDEO SCISSORS ABOUT WHY. “Hair health starts with quality cutting tools!” explained Jarrod. “A super-sharp edge will disrupt as few of the hair's layers as possible. When the cuticle isn't disrupted and still tact, it can still do its job of protecting the strength and moisture in the cortex. A lesser quality or duller blade will roughly cut the ends of the hair leaving it open and susceptible to further heat, and mechanical or chemical damage. If you've ever cut a tomato with a butter knife, you've seen how the skin gets shredded, compared to using a super-sharp tomato knife that will glide through fruit and leave the edges crisp and intact. The same clean cut occurs on a micro-level with hair when using our shears.”

Jarrod continued: “Proper hair cutting is the alchemy of technique and tool. If you've ever seen hair fold over a blade while cutting, you've seen the hair stretch and then get an uneven cut as a result of the uneven pressure between blades. It leads to serious damage to the cuticle and split ends appear way before they should. When cutting the interior, many stylists want the perfect shears for slide cutting and mistakenly attempt to pull shears through the hair with the blades held slightly open. Unless the blades are razor sharp and the hair is fed in at the side, you can shave down the diameter of the hair vertically along the shaft and expose the cortex. It again leads to weak, dry hair prone to split ends. Over time the

“THERE IS NO RIGHT OR WRONG WAY TO EXPRESS CREATIVITY WITH A TOOL. HOWEVER, UNDERSTANDING HAIR'S BASIC CHARACTERISTICS CAN BE HELPFUL.” 60

“WE'RE ABLE TO PROVE OUR SHEARS DON'T NEED SHARPENING FOR FOUR TO FIVE YEARS. A LESSER SHEAR MAY GIVE OUT AFTER JUST TWO MONTHS.” breakage will make the hair look less full than intended!” So, what should hairdressers be looking for when selecting the right pair of scissors? Jarrod said: “Several different things should be considered. The lower the angle of the cutting edge relative to the blade, the sharper and cleaner the cut will be. The Tondeo blades put the cutting edge on the inside of the blade, on the inside of a concave shape, so that the lowest degree of edge is possible. Make sure that blades have a minute gap when closed. The only points that should be touched when closed are the tip and the pivot. When testing shears, watch that the hair isn't pushing away and forward when the blades close.”

TRADITION OF MASTER CRAFTSMANSHIP. SOLINGEN SCISSORS MANUFACTURE SINCE 1928

Can the wrong choice of scissors paired with a specific technique be detrimental? Jarrod said: “There is no right or wrong way to express creativity with a tool. However, understanding hair's basic characteristics can be helpful. For example, a guest with fine, straight hair may want visible texture in the hair. Our instinct is to reach for a fine-toothed shear to match their fine hair. However, what they need is the bluntness and heft of the texture created by a larger toothed shear to help define a stronger movement. The finer toothed choice would probably make the shape collapse by removing much needed weight, and make the hair fuzzy, rather than express texture.”

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"A higher quality shear will utilize a higher quality steel, and it is produced in a way that preserves that quality. Hardness isn't the only factor in quality consideration. The steel should have a very tight and even molecular structure. Molecular gaps and softer impurities will contribute to lesser-quality steel losing its sharp edge much more quickly. Tondeo shears are leading the way with CNC technology which cuts the blanks out of a cold piece of steel. To our knowledge, we're the only shear manufacturer using this method, which we find keeps the steel at its most pristine and strongest state so that edges last the longest in the market. "It's critical to take care of shears regardless of price point or quality. Contrary to popular belief, hair is a soft material and on its own, won't dull a blade. Water is the biggest enemy of a sharp blade. Make sure that shears are wiped dry and lubricated to help keep them working as well as provide a barrier between the steel and water. Our engineers love data and rather than just saying shears get dull after "X" uses, they built a machine that mimics shear use in the salon and cuts repeatedly cuts a special material, for days, weeks, and months on end. We're able to prove our shears don't need sharpening for four to five years. A lesser shear may give out after just two months.

THOR DAMAST

COUNTESS

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SUPRA

www.TondeoNorthAmerica.com // @tondeo_north_america 61

CARE FOR YOUR

COLOR FAROUK SYSTEMS STAGE ARTIST, MCKENZIE LEHMANN IS A VIVID COLOR FANATIC, BUT SHE IS COMMITTED TO ALWAYS PRIORITIZING HAIR HEALTH FIRST AND NEVER SACRIFICING HAIR HEALTH FOR A COLORFUL STATEMENT. HOW DOES SHE EXCEL AT BOTH HEALTHY AND COLORFUL HAIR? WE FIND OUT. Licensed stylist of over 15 years, McKenzie is the owner in Columbia, Missouri, and a platform stage artist for Farouk Systems, Inc. As a specialist in color correction and high fashion color, McKenzie has been recognized as a top 30 Under 30 Colorist, a One-Shot Finalist, and has helped produce collections for Farouk Systems, Inc. McKenzie told us about what made her first fall in love with Farouk Systems, Inc: “I had the most amazing mentor in school who worked for Farouk Systems, Inc, and she taught me all the things you don’t really learn in school.

“Shortly after getting my license, I became pregnant with my first child. The problem was, I developed a crazy allergy to ammonia due to the extra hormones of being pregnant. At the time, I was using the color line I had learned about in school and was devastated that I couldn’t do color anymore. I reached out to my mentor, and we talked about CHI Color and gave it a shot. I instantly fell in love with the color and it’s been a love story ever since!” I asked McKenzie why ensuring your client has a healthy base of hair before taking them on their

“FAROUK SYSTEMS, INC.’S CHI HAIRCARE BRAND STRIVES TO USE THE MOST NATURAL INGREDIENTS. EVERYTHING IS BASED ON SILK. SILK IS MADE UP OF PROTEINS JUST LIKE OUR HAIR”

color journey is essential. She said: “Let’s be real, high fashion color isn’t a cheap journey. Typically, my highest color tickets in the salon are for fashion colors. There is nothing worse than spending hours on a guest giving that perfect result, for it to just wash out in a couple of weeks. Whether it’s for high fashion colors or traditional colors – damaged, porous hair is unpredictable. NO ONE in our industry wants redo’s or unhappy guests, so making sure the hair has integrity and a solid base while working with a quality product is the only way to ensure that the results will last.” For McKenzie, the key to achieving high fashion colors while maintaining the client’s hair integrity is using CHI Haircare products. She explained: “Farouk Systems, Inc.’s CHI Haircare brand strives to use the most natural ingredients. Everything is based on silk. Silk is made up of proteins just like our hair; it’s basically liquid hair. Keeping that natural protein in the ingredients helps maintain the integrity of the hair to achieve consistent results.” A current favorite of McKenzie is the Royal Treatment by CHI line. She said: “There is a spray

in that line called Royal Treatment Bond & Seal. It is the fastest bonding product in the market. One bottle makes me over $1000.00 in the salon. It has multiple uses, but it ensures that the hair porosity is equalized, so the color will take or lift evenly. It’s also a natural bonder. “When you’re working with natural products to support the hair, the hair doesn’t depend on it to maintain its structure. Our bonders help treat the problems, not mask them. Whereas synthetic bonders typically require continued usage to keep the hair structure in place.” McKenzie has a regimen she always recommends to get her clients on the path to healthy hair. “I have my own little cocktail that I love using the Royal Treatment line, starting with the Royal Treatment Bond & Repair Clarifying Treatment, add in some Bond & Repair Oil, and two pumps of Bond & Repair Bond Rebuilder, bag it, and set them under the dryer for 15 minutes under low heat. I haven’t had a client yet that I haven’t been able to color after a treatment and a couple of repair washes.”

Must-have hair care products for achieving the perfect, healthy color: • LG CHI Color Master Factory This digital hair color lab creates unlimited color formulations. The CHI color dispensed is non-progressive and stops processing after its allotted time, and turns into a deep conditioner. • CHI Vibes “Know It All” Multitasking Hair Protector From heat protection, speeding dry time, blocking humidity, and reducing frizz, this product does it all. • Royal Treatment Bond & Repair Blowout Primer. Say goodbye to humidity because this will keep hair frizz-free and smooth all day long! • Royal Treatment Bond & Seal This is a natural bonder that strengthens and protects during color services.

THE NEED FOR SUPPLEMENTS: SUPPORTING YOUR HAIR’S BEST GROWTH THE HUMAN BODY HAS AN INCREDIBLE ABILITY TO GROW OVER A MILE OF HAIR EACH MONTH, EQUIVALENT TO ABOUT 12 MILES IN ONE YEAR! HOWEVER, THIS EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY TOWARDS ABUNDANT HAIR GROWTH COMES WITH A DEMAND — THE NEED FOR AN ARRAY OF VITAL NUTRIENTS AND MINERALS. GOLDIE LOCKS ® STANDS AS YOUR ULTIMATE COMPANION, ENSURING YOUR BODY BRIDGES THE NUTRITIONAL GAPS WHERE YOUR REGULAR DIET IS LIKELY FAILING. Let’s explain why Goldie Locks® Supplements are your indispensable partner on your journey to fuller, thicker and longer-looking hair, accompanied by an enhanced sense of energy, mood and a stronger immune system. And of course, we have options, we’ve harnessed the natural yet impactful potential of CBD to not only elevate your hair but also contribute to your mental well-being. Navigating the whirlwind of chasing today's schedule, maintaining a balanced diet with all the essential nutrients required for optimal hair health has proven to be a challenge. Surprisingly, nutrient deficiencies are more common than you might think, and they frequently manifest as hair that lacks vibrancy, feels brittle, or even starts thinning. This is precisely where supplements come into play as invaluable allies. They offer a practical and effective way to provide your body with nutrients not met by your day-to-day diet, ensuring your body is well-equipped with all the elements needed to support the growth of vibrant, luscious hair. Who Benefits Most from Supplements? Wondering if supplements are right for you? Well, the truth is that almost anyone can benefit from Goldie Locks® supplements. If you've noticed your hair isn't as vibrant, thick, or full as you'd like it to be, or if you've been struggling with hair thinning,

excessive shedding, or a lackluster appearance, these supplements can make a significant difference. They're also a fantastic option for individuals with nutrient restrictions, like those who follow strict diets. The Goldie Locks® Difference: Original and Enhanced Formulations When it comes to hair supplements, Goldie Locks® distinguishes itself by offering not one but two unique formulations, each tailored to cater to your specific hair needs. Our original formulation is a powerhouse in its own right, meticulously crafted to stimulate hair growth and amplify thickness, giving you the luscious locks, you are in search of. And for those looking for something extra, our enhanced formulation goes the extra mile. Enriched with 25 mg of broad-spectrum CBD, it adds a unique dimension to your hair health journey, contributing to hair growth while also to your mental well-being. Beyond Hair: We’re Here for The Whole You Goldie Locks® Supplements do more than just enhance your hair. Our carefully selected ingredients also nourish and enhance the quality of your skin, fortify your nails, and support your joint health. You'll likely experience a boost in energy, an improvement in your mood, and a reinforced

“GOLDIE LOCKS® IS MORE THAN A BRAND; WE'RE YOUR PARTNER IN THIS EXCITING JOURNEY TO HAIR AND HOLISTIC WELLNESS.” immune system. We're here for the whole you, not just your hair. But we don't just stop there; we're also committed to being responsible, sustainable, and ethical. Our supplements are lab-tested, nonGMO, and kosher, and they contain no artificial colors or flavors. We've left out common allergens like gluten, dairy, nuts, and soy, ensuring that as you embrace this journey to better hair, you're doing so with supplements that align with your values. Goldie Locks® is more than a brand; we're your partner in this exciting journey to hair and holistic wellness.

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COLOR + EXTENSION SAFE

CARING

FOR CURLS BY KEYA NEAL

When it comes to thinking about hair health and texture, here are some myths I would love to debunk: When we learned about color as cosmetology students, we didn’t walk out of the first class with a mastery of application and the color wheel! The same applies to curls and texture. There is an overarching misconception that all curly and textured hair is “hard”, “difficult”, and “dry” when in reality these difficulties stem from our lack of knowledge and experience working with texture. Curls do need to be treated with care, but so does every texture of hair. Whether that’s using moisture and protein treatments, dropping your developer to preserve curl integrity, or detangling gently to align curls and prevent breakage.

Another misconception is that we must apply a 30-40 vol developer to bleach darker natural level curls in order to achieve higher levels of lift. In actuality, it's safer and more effective to achieve those levels of lift using lower volumes of developer and leaving it on longer. Debunking these misconceptions start with getting the education, putting in the practice, and advancing your overall knowledge of hair on a professional level.

AS PROFESSIONAL STYLISTS, WE NEED TO BECOME COMFORTABLE WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THERE IS NO ONE-SIZE-FITS-ALL ANSWER WHEN IT COMES TO TEXTURE. WHEN WE ADDRESS HAIRCARE, THE ANSWER IS DIFFERENT DEPENDING ON WHO IS IN OUR CHAIR, AND WHAT THEIR UNIQUE HAIR TYPE LOOKS LIKE. The answers lie in recognizing that each texture is a sum of distinct core characteristics for the individual, determined by the physical attributes of their hair such as porosity, elasticity, density, surface texture, diameter, curl spring, hydration factors, and more. This dictates how the hair presents itself and interacts with various products and water. Even when you have two curly clients, side-by-side, the texture of each individual will possess unique traits requiring a different strategy to achieve your desired outcome. The same applies to straight hair. For instance, your two curly clients may both require moisture, but one may have fine curls while the other has thicker strands, possibly necessitating different weights of moisturizer. Because there are potentially hundreds of texture combinations possible and more

than one on each head, it’s imperative for stylists to approach each client on a case-by-case basis and not make generalizations based on ethnicity or first impressions. We must first understand that ALL hair is a texture. Understanding the "why" behind how hair fabrics work is always vital to making the right choices for clients, and we do that by understanding it’s core characteristics. This should be an industry standard. Textures are independently characterized by the distinctive physical attributes of each strand of hair that dictate how the hair presents itself and responds to its surroundings. . Comprehending these traits and their effects will enable you to precisely assess your client's hair, anticipate product interactions, and devise a strategy to achieve the desired results for

KEYA’S TOP PICKS

For maintaining, protecting, and revitalizing hair health: • K18 • Naked by Essations- Keratin Plus Reconstructive Mask, Infusion 356, Revive Hair and Scalp Spray • Kavella • Malibu-C • BeKeKOA

ALL hair types and textures. It's always important to be aware of porosity levels when working with a client with processed or curly hair. Clients with curly textures will typically have some degree of naturally occurring inherent porosity due to the hair's curved structure. High porosity hair absorbs water easily but struggles to retain it, resulting in hair that is dehydrated, dull, and prone to breakage. Utilizing bond-building treatments and proteins will help fill the porosity gaps and strengthen the hair, in conjunction with moisture treatments to restore hydration levels. Over time, these treatments will improve the hair's ability to retain moisture, withstand environmental stressors, and enhance overall health.

HEALTH IS

WEALTH DENMAN GLOBAL STAGE STAR WINNER EMMA DIXON SHARES HER INSIGHTS ON WHY HAIR HEALTH SHOULD BE FOREVER TOP OF MIND FOR PROFESSIONAL STYLISTS. Educating clients on the health of their scalp and hair, and counselling them through that bleach or heat styling addiction is essential to protecting them (and your bottom line) long term. We spoke to Emma Dixon, the winner of Denman’s Global Stage Star competition to uncover her approach on managing client hair and scalp health. When and how should hair and scalp health be approached in the salon? “I think haircare begins even before a client steps through the door. I only select products that are kind to the skin and hair. I choose brands like Uberliss, K18 and Eleven Australia. The products are all cruelty-free and devoid of nasty ingredients. I use Uberliss Bond Treatment as part of the service and it can be added to colour to strengthen and repair hair. The shampoos balance the pH on the scalp and really hydrate the hair too. I’m also big on sanitising my tools. Denman has this brilliant brush cleaning tool for getting out all the hair and I generally wash my tools with shampoo to get out grease and product. I also use the Denman Hairbrush Sanitiser spray, it’s alcohol free, but kills 99.9% of all bacteria. It’s essential that there is no risk of cross infestation between clients. I select my tools to ensure that scalp comfort and snag-free styling and detangling is top of the list.” What’s your first approach to hair and scalp assessment? “Naturally it always starts with a thorough consultation. There are so many hair and scalp conditions and as hairdressers we are often the first to identify a potential problem. So, I carefully assess

each client’s head and tailor my choices to their current needs and their future plans. For example I had a client complaining of itchy scalp. I used 11 Australia Gentle Clean Balancing Shampoo and conditioner, an Uberliss Treatment and used the Denman BeBop D6 Massage Brush to exfoliate the scalp and stimulate the blood vessels. I also used the D90L Denman Tangle Tamer to prep her hair before styling with the D38 Power Paddle. If ever I am unsure of a scalp or hair issue then I refer the client to their GP.” What suggestions do you offer your clients for aftercare? “As a freelancer it means I have total freedom to retail only the products and tools that I believe are the best for my clients. I did decide to make that investment and it’s really paid off. My choices were entirely led by my clients needs. I retail home care and treatments from the ranges that I use in the salon and the popular Denman D3 Original Styler, the Denman D90L Tangle Tamer, the Denman D6 Be Bop, the Denman Head Huggers and the Denman D81 Style & Shine Brush which is so gentle and great for bleached hair plus the Denman D200 Skeleton Vent for short hair.” Did you know that hairdressers can sign-up for their own trade account on denmanbrush.com to get discounts on all tools.

“I SELECT MY TOOLS TO ENSURE THAT SCALP COMFORT AND SNAGFREE STYLING AND DETANGLING IS TOP OF THE LIST.”

THE BEAUTY

BEHIND HAIRCARE

WE SAY THE WORDS ‘HAIR’ AND ‘CARE’ IN CONJUNCTION ALL THE TIME, BUT WHAT ARE WE ‘CARING’ ABOUT? GLOBAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF BIOLAGE, LUIS ALVAREZ SPEAKS TO HOW BIOLAGE WAS CREATED, DEVELOPED, AND EVOLVED TO CARE ABOUT NOT ONLY THE HEALTH OF THE HAIR BUT OF THE ENVIRONMENT, AS WELL AS THE HEALTH OF PROFESSIONALS. Biolage has been a world leader in the professional haircare industry since 1990 when it was launched by Arnold and Sydell Miller. Since its conception, the brand has been inspired by natural ingredients, and known for its trusted performance. In 2023, the brand went under a major reinvention, announcing all iconic formulas were updated to be certified cruelty-free and vegan, and their packaging to be made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic (excluding caps), saving over 30 tons of virgin plastic every year. Someone who has been along for the ride since the very beginning, and an integral asset is Luis Alvarez. He explained: “I was working as a session artist for the first decade of my career, with most of my work in fashion. I worked on collections in Europe, as well as many editorial, advertising, and catalog assignments. Those jobs allowed me to travel the globe. All the lessons I learned during those years working with top editors, art directors, photographers, and models, have influenced my approach to the creative process.

“A particular editorial job I worked on for Italian Vogue caught the attention of a gentleman by the name of Robert Yates. At the time, Robert was the Vice President of Marketing for Matrix. He introduced me to the Miller family, and they began hiring me as their lead creative for all of their photo and video shoots. After a couple of years, they offered me a full-time position as Creative Director, and Biolage became my first in-house assignment. That was my first corporate job, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity the Miller family gave me.” We wanted to know what the vision for Biolage was like, back in the ‘90s. Luis explained: “When possible, I like to work with a brand’s marketing and creative team to distill the creative brief down to one word that succinctly defines a brand’s essence. For us back in the day, that word was “rejuvenation.” The message and promise conveyed back then was to deliver products that helped restore the pliability, flexibility, and shine of youthful-looking, and conditioned hair. The essence

“ONE OF MY FAVORITE ROLES, IS TO WORK WITH OUR TEAM TO DEVELOP EDUCATIONAL SYSTEMS TO HELP HAIR ARTISTS BECOME MORE FLUENT COMMUNICATORS AND DEVELOP THE TECHNICAL SKILLS TO NOT ONLY CREATE BUT TEACH GUESTS HOW TO ACHIEVE ATTAINABLE WEARABLE HAIR .” 68

of Biolage has not changed, but new advanced technologies available to us today have allowed us to future-proof Biolage for the next generation of professional hair artists and their customers.” Since then, Luis has been essential in helping to project the brand’s ethos, values, and strengths. He said: “Over the years I have developed a skill set that is laser-focused on “connecting the dots” between product development, marketing, sales, and education. At the end of the day, there is nothing more gratifying to me than visiting a salon and experiencing first-hand the interaction between a professional and a consumer as a product or regiment is prescribed and ultimately becomes the ideal solution for that individual’s hair type and needs.” Let’s go back to the meaning of ‘haircare’. Luis told us a bit about how Biolage shows it cares about hair health, eco-health, as well as the health of the professional: “Biolage is the bridge that connects professional quality and performance with consumers’ needs and expectations. Our formulas are crafted to leverage the best of nature in partnership with the latest advanced scientific research. We aim to deliver haircare and styling products that are efficacious, yet ultra-conditioning. Most recently, we’ve launched our Strength Recovery and Bond Therapy franchises that offer damage repair solutions targeting the deepest parts of the hair strand with effective ingredients such as Vegan Squalane and Citric Acid. Our goal at Biolage is to provide both professionals and their guests with prescriptive regimens specifically designed to deliver optimum condition to hair regardless of length, texture, or condition.” One of the major moves Biolage has made this year has been making their commitment to sustainability. Luis explained: “These are exciting times at Biolage. We are aware of the needs and demands of the new beauty consumer and as part of our journey to become a more sustainable brand, all our formulas are now vegan and cruelty-free. Our brand has been given the Leaping Bunny stamp of approval by Cruelty-Free International, which is a leading organization working

“WHILE OF COURSE ACHIEVING WORK/LIFE BALANCE IS ESSENTIAL, ANOTHER IMPORTANT ELEMENT TO CONSIDER IS DEVELOPING THE SKILL SET, BOTH TECHNICAL AND PERCEPTUAL TO PERFORM AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL WHEN WORKING BEHIND THE CHAIR.”

to end animal testing. This stringent process ensures that consumers can buy Biolage products with complete confidence that we meet Leaping Bunny’s strict criteria, and the brand is committed to uphold these standards as Biolage is audited each year. Finally, our signature bottles are now made from 100% recycled plastic, significantly reducing the amount of virgin resin used in our packaging.” One of Luis’s particular areas of interest is the importance of self-care and encouraging and educating professionals about prioritizing their

own health. He said: “It’s a lot easier to fall in love with one’s profession when one has the skill set to perform at one’s best. I began my career at a very young age and our industry is all I know, respect, and love. At this point in my career, I wish to help fellow hair artists discover their path to longevity and success in a challenging and complex profession. Standing on one’s feet all day is physically taxing and maintaining a calm mental state while effectively helping guests express their aesthetic identity is emotionally challenging.

“While achieving work/life balance is essential, another important element to consider is developing the skill set, both technical and perceptual to perform at the highest level. Now that I have been allowed to serve the Biolage family in my new role as Global Creative Director, one of my favorite roles is to work to develop educational systems geared to help hair artists become more fluent communicators and develop the technical skills to teach guests how to achieve attainable wearable hair. I always share the following quote: ‘Fall in love with what you do and you will never work a day in your life.’”

SKINCARE THESE DAYS, CONSUMERS HAVE SO MUCH ACCESS TO INFORMATION AND EDUCATION REGARDING SKINCARE AND THE BEST PRACTICES, FROM TUTORIALS TO REGIMENS. BUT HOW CAN YOU ENSURE YOUR BEAUTY BUSINESS CAN OFFER CLIENTS A SERVICE THAT GOES ABOVE, AND CAN'T BE REPLICATED AT HOME? LET'S FIND OUT.

SAY ‘HEY’ TO HEYDAY KNOWN FOR THEIR PERSONALIZED FACIALS, WITHOUT THE FUSS, THE GOAL AT HEYDAY IS TO TAKE THE FACIAL OUT OF THE SPA, AND GUESSWORK OUT OF SKINCARE. STARTING OUT AS A FACIAL BAR IN NEW YORK CITY, HEYDAY NOW HAS OVER 30 LOCATIONS COAST-TO-COAST. SO, HOW DID HEYDAY REINVENT SKINCARE? Shea Amiruddin, Director of Skincare, at Heyday shared the company’s origins with us: “Heyday started as a facial bar in New York City with the goal of taking the facial out of the spa and making the treatment more accessible. We believe every day should be your ‘heyday’ and are dedicated to helping our clients capture that feeling. “Our estheticians are at the center of everything we do – we provide them with the tools and training necessary to deliver the best facial available to our clients. We educate our clients about their skin and build relationships to help them achieve their long-term skincare goals.”

“EVERY SINGLE STEP OF THE FACIAL IS COMPLETELY PERSONALIZED TO EACH INDIVIDUAL – GIVING THEIR SKIN EXACTLY WHAT IT NEEDS AT THAT MOMENT.” 71

So, what makes Heyday different from your average day spa or beauty salon? Shea explained: “Our focus at Heyday is to deliver the best facial possible to meet our client’s unique needs. With our backbar products, we have the ability to deliver the most personalized and efficacious facial. In our highly trained estheticians, we have a team that both educates and treats our clients, building lasting relationships.” Since Heyday’s heyday in New York, it has grown exponentially. Shea said: “Heyday has grown both in locations and in our service menu and ability to serve clients of all skin types, concerns, and Fitzpatrick scale. We now have 35 shops across 11 states, including 24 owned and operated shops and 11 franchises. In addition to our geographic growth, we continue to evolve our product and service offerings to constantly elevate our experience.” Let’s talk service menus. Because today’s Heyday is much more than just a facial bar. Shea said: “The 50-minute facial is our core offering, with additional enhancements and boosts that can be chosen based on skin concerns and goals. Every single step of the facial is completely personalized to each individual – giving their skin exactly what it needs at that moment. Enhancements that we offer include gua sha, microcurrent, chemical peels, LED, hydro wand infusion, diamond tip microdermabrasion, and nano infusion. We also seek to create a unique service offering seasonally that targets common concerns often seen during that time of year.

The Heyday Skincare Regimen

The Heyday team has put together their top 5 skincare recommendations to add to your regimen:

One Love Botanical B Enzyme Cleansing Oil - Dissolves all traces of makeup, sunscreen, and debris from the skin to allow everything that follows to work even better.

2 3

Pai Century Flower Barrier Defence Mist - A toning mist to amp up hydration right after cleansing.

Ursa Major Brighten Up Vitamin C Serum - A multitasking serum that amplifies skincare results, so we reach for this star time and time again that brightens and smooths skin’s tone and appearance.

Naturopathica Calendula Essential Hydrating Cream - Essential is the word in this soothing and moisturizing cream that keeps the skin calm and healthy.

Image Prevention+ Clear Solar Gel SPF30 - No skincare regimen is complete without SPF, and this sunscreen seamlessly blends into all routines thanks to its invisible and weightless barrier.

All Heyday estheticians go through our Foundations training to ensure they are thoroughly equipped and prepared to perform the Heyday facial. This training offers something for everyone whether they are a seasoned professional or someone new to the industry. We focus on product knowledge, treatment techniques, and client communication to give our team the tools they need to give our clients a 6-star experience every time. In addition to Foundations training, we regularly host workshop sessions both virtually and within our shops for our teams.” Heyday has become known for its cool, and unfussy, yet expertly executed services. Shea explained that their approach to customer service is just one of the things that sets Heyday apart. She said: “At Heyday, we care for our clients’ skin, their comfort, and their long-term goals. We help to build our clients’ confidence from the outside in so that they can live their Heyday every day. The vast majority of our clients are members who come to Heyday monthly and have a close relationship with our staff and their esthetician who is educating and guiding them along their skincare journey.” “In the facial, our estheticians complete a skin analysis and consultation to determine the optimal treatment plan for the day, deliver a custom facial with enhancements (additional modalities) that best suit the needs of the client, and educate our clients about the best products to continue their skincare regimen at home.”

"AT HEYDAY WE FOCUS ON INGREDIENT INTEGRITY, SEEKING TO PARTNER WITH BRANDS THAT CREATE INTENTIONAL PRODUCTS WITH PROVEN RESULTS."

To ensure that each Heyday client can carry on their personalized skincare regimen, Heyday carries a wide variety of skincare brands, many of which are professional products that aren’t easy to find at your local supermarket, such as favorites like Supergoop!, Dermalogica, Moon Juice, and Image Skincare, and much more. We asked Shea, why ensuring their clients have access to the highest quality skincare products is so important at Heyday. She said: “At Heyday we focus on ingredient

integrity, seeking to partner with brands that create intentional products with proven results. We want the products that touch your face and your hands to be safe, fun to use, and most importantly do what they say they’ll do. Thoughtful, efficacious, and professional strength formulas are an essential part of the Heyday esthetician toolkit. Helping us to target the root cause of skin concerns – so our clients can see and feel a difference in the way their skin behaves.”

SKIN HEALTH

EQUITY

MELANIN-RICH SKIN TONES, SPECIFICALLY THOSE CATEGORIZED AS FITZPATRICK LEVELS IV-VI, ARE VASTLY UNDERREPRESENTED IN THE PROFESSIONAL SKINCARE INDUSTRY’S CURRICULA. THIS IS WHY LEADING SKINCARE BRAND, DERMALOGICA HAVE LAUNCHED A FREE COURSE SPECIFICALLY ON TREATING MELANIN-RICH SKIN.

“AS THE LEADERS IN SKIN TREATMENT EDUCATION, WE’RE DRIVEN BY OUR PURPOSE TO ELEVATE THE INDUSTRY THROUGH ADVANCED EDUCATION AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT, AND THAT INCLUDES ENSURING THAT EVERY SKIN PROFESSIONAL IS CONFIDENT TREATING EVERY SKIN TONE.”

Clinical skincare brand, used and regarded by skincare professionals globally, Dermalogica is not only committed to providing professionals with the right products and tools to help give their clients the best services and the best results. Dermalogica was founded by Jane Wurwand, who in 1983 identified a gap in professional skin care training and created the International Dermal Institute to set skin therapists up for success. She then launched Dermalogica in 1986, bucking industry trends in favor of clean formulas, a minimalist look, and commitment to skin health, not beauty. Today, Dermalogica trains 100,000 skin therapists per year in advanced technologies and services. Products are formulated for the treatment room, used daily in the hands of licensed skin therapists and by millions of people for professional results at home. With its global headquarters in Los Angeles, CA, Dermalogica is made in the USA with products sold in more than 80 countries worldwide. Because of the brand’s global scope and commitment to education, the team is also committed to ensuring education is available for every professional to work with every client. Historically, skincare curriculum has been severely lacking when it comes to skin tone inclusivity and diversity. Textbooks primarily feature lighter skin tones on models and in medical illustrations, and classes often omit how skin conditions present in darker skin tone variations. This causes a learning gap that can lead to inequalities in care, from the initial client consultation through skin analysis and treatment. However, Dermalogica were determined to change this, with is launch of Treating Melanin-Rich Skin, a course for skin therapists and future industry professionals to strengthen their foundational

knowledge of understanding and treating melaninrich skin. The free course is comprised of three self-led modules. Module one focuses on cultural intelligence (CQ) to strengthen communication and improve the client experience. The second module delves into the science of melanin and melanin-rich skin structure, exploring how it affects skin conditions such as aging, hyperpigmentation, breakouts, sensitivity, and more. Students will learn how to unlock effective skin treatments for these skin conditions and types of ingredients to use and avoid when treating melanin-rich skin. Heather Hickman, VP of Education at Dermalogica said: “Dermalogica was literally born from the idea that industry education could and should do more to set skin therapists up for success. “As the leaders in skin treatment education, we’re driven by our purpose to elevate the industry through advanced education and skill development, and that includes ensuring that every skin professional is confident treating every skin tone.” The third module addresses advanced skin services, focusing on chemical peels, microneedling, nanoinfusion, dermaplaning, and LED. The curriculum details precautions and contraindications that may be present with melanin-rich skin, guiding the professional on how to perform each of these services successfully. “Understanding the complexities of melanin-rich skin is both a science and an art,” explains course consultant and board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Alexis Stephens. “This is a much-needed course and a massive step in the right direction in bridging the gap in skin exclusivity.” www.TreatingMelaninRichSkin.com

A SKINCARE

SUCCESS

STORY

WE ALL KNOW THAT ULTA BEAUTY IS A TOP-CLASS EMPLOYER AND WORKPLACE FOR HAIRDRESSERS AND STYLISTS, BUT DID YOU KNOW THAT IT IS ALSO KNOWN FOR SKINCARE CAREERS TOO? WE SPOKE TO CHRISTINE RUSSELL ABOUT HER JOURNEY AS SKIN THERAPIST AND SKIN SERVICE TRAINER FOR ULTA BEAUTY. This year, Christine is coming up on her remarkable 10-year milestone at Ulta Beauty in Green Bay, Wisconsin. She told us a little bit about her journey: “A Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis once led me to step back from the industry I love, but I found my way back as a part-time Ulta skin therapist, initially planning to work just a couple of days a week. However, I quickly discovered myself in a store led by exceptional leaders. The rapid growth of my business prompted an unexpected shift for my family and me – I decided to go full-time.” As Christine’s business continued to flourish, she achieved Elite status within the company in 2016. She said: “That same year, I applied to become an Esthetics Educator for Ulta Beauty, thanks to some encouragement from my salon manager. I've always felt profoundly fortunate to have built a thriving skincare business, supported by exceptional managers. My salon manager at the time not only aided in my business growth but also inspired me to share my esthetics knowledge with others in my role as an educator. She truly cared about me as a person, not just an employee.

My salon manager took the time to understand my professional aspirations and supported me in pursuing them, and cared not only about my life within work but my life outside as well.” Christine spoke about the opportunities she had been offered, as she progressed further in her business, and as an educator. She said: “The educational resources here are truly top-notch. Where else can you say you've learned from luminaries like Dr. Murad's nurse, Kate Sommerville, Courtney Buhler, Dr. Howard-Verovic, and many others? We receive paid training throughout the year through Ulta Beauty. Additionally, we have access to take any of Dermalogica’s classes for free!” Before joining Ulta Beauty, Christine had seen many aspects of the industry, from working in a day spa, assisting a plastic surgeon, and even renting her own suite. However, she explained: “Ulta has provided opportunities that these places couldn't match. I receive paid vacation, personal days, and holiday pay, and have a 401K plan. These are benefits not often offered in this industry. Ulta offers the

highest compensation rate in the industry, along with a plethora of other benefits, not to mention incredible gratis and substantial discounts on all the beauty products we love.” Christine continued: “My connection with the corporate office has also been a tremendous asset. My education manager has been an invaluable resource, always there to answer my questions and provide unwavering support, especially during the challenging times of the pandemic. The entire team for skin services at the corporate level is equally incredible – they go above and beyond to meet our store-level needs, always asking for suggestions and ideas.” It's safe to say that if you told Christine 10 years ago, where she would be today, she probably would have never believed you. “Throughout this journey, my husband and two children have been unwavering supporters. They've encouraged and celebrated my achievements, displaying patience when I’m fatigued and understanding when work commitments keep me busy. I'm grateful for having shown my children that success is attainable when you're passionate about what you do.”

“THE ENTIRE TEAM FOR SKIN SERVICES AT THE CORPORATE LEVEL IS EQUALLY INCREDIBLE – THEY GO ABOVE AND BEYOND TO MEET OUR STORE-LEVEL NEEDS, ALWAYS ASKING FOR SUGGESTIONS AND IDEAS.” 74

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BEAUTY PROFESSIONALS SPEND ALL DAY, EVERY DAY CARING FOR THEIR CLIENTS. NOT ONLY HELPING THEM LOOK GOOD, BUT FEEL GOOD TOO, TAKING ON THE WEIGHT OF ALL THEIR PROBLEMS. BUT THERE IS ONLY SO MUCH WEIGHT YOU CAN TAKE ON, UNTIL IT STARTS TO BE HEAVY FOR EVEN THE STRONGEST. SO, THIS IS YOUR SIGN TO TAKE A STEP BACK, AND INVEST IN SELF CARE FOR YOURSELF, SO YOU CAN CONTINUE TO CARE FOR YOUR CLIENTS.

Health & Wellbeing 76

Hair Love = Self Love FOUNDER OF HAIR LOVE, LIFE COACH, EDUCATOR, AND MENTOR, ELIZABETH FAYE’S MAIN GOAL IS TO BE A VOICE FOR BEAUTY AND WELLNESS PROFESSIONALS, HELPING THEM TO HEAL FROM THE HUSTLE CULTURE, AND FIND SUSTAINABLE, ATTAINABLE, AND HEALTHY CAREER SUCCESS. Elizabeth is a self-described soul-led entrepreneur, with the mission of helping beauty professionals live and lead consciously. As a trauma-informed business/ life coach, breath-work expert, and educator/ public speaker, Elizabeth is determined to help change lives through wellbeing, by bringing a holistic approach to business coaching. When Elizabeth is not running her incredibly successful Hair Love Retreat, she can be found coaching, writing, podcasting for Hair Love Radio, public speaking (check out her TedTalk!), offering corporate training, and so much more. She said: “I’m always seeking opportunities to learn more myself as the founder, but also for my team. As a founder, it’s extremely important to focus on team building, leading team meetings, and receiving coaching myself. If I don’t pour into myself, how can I pour into others?” We asked Elizabeth what inspired her to take this path in the industry. Elizabeth explained:

“I was a successful hairdresser, an educator, salon owner, and influencer, and got burned out and sick with adrenal fatigue. I was starting to get chronic migraines and arthritis, I was prediabetic, and I just realized that our industry is riddled with putting others first and putting our own nutrition, health, and emotional well-being on the back burner. “Hairdressers work extremely hard and give to others for a living. We joke about the overgiving, coffee all day, and being exhausted at the end of the day, which was my story and it ultimately ended in burnout. But it doesn’t have to be this way! “When I became a trauma-informed coach I learned all of these tools to protect myself physically, emotionally, and energetically. It was the turning point when I realized that hairdressers needed these tools. So, I started bringing them to the hair and beauty industry through the Hair Love Retreat and my coaching programs.”

“WE LOVE SCHEDULICITY BECAUSE IT’S HEART-CENTRIC, THEY’RE HUMAN-CENTRIC AND WE APPRECIATE THEIR VALUES AND HOW THEY SERVE THEIR COMMUNITY. THEIR CEO LEADS WITH DEEP INTENTION AND WITH THE MISSION AT THE FOREFRONT AND THAT’S A CORE VALUE OF THE HAIR LOVE BRAND.” 77

Hair Love Retreat Each year, with the stylist-focused Hair Love Retreat, Elizabeth’s goal is to build and strengthen the community within the hair industry. She said: “We have one of the industry's largest independent communities and one that focuses in on holistic education and an approach to success. Through our embodied soul approach to wellness, businesses, and beauty, we know that what hairdressers do is so much more than hair or a service. We aim to serve the hairdresser as a whole.” And the attendees' feedback? “Hands down, everyone says it changes their life. It's literally like an echo chamber of thousands of people who say it changed their life and the people around them.” This year’s Hair Love Retreat was no different. Held in Zion, Hair Love Retreat was a five-day experience and opportunity to escape your day-today environment and get out of your comfort zone. Elizabeth said: “Our 2023 event was amazing.

We focused on creating an intimate experience for these educators, salon owners, and stylists. It was a beautiful mix of hair talent and business expertise and each attendee had lots of personal and spiritual development. “From there we also mastermind on business and connect on what’s worked for us and what hasn’t as the industry is quickly changing since 2020. We’ve all been through a lot – specifically the beauty industry. It’s a great way for us to share what’s working, what’s not, client behavior, economic shifts, and trends.” Each year, the event features education sessions and lessons from top leaders in the industry. “We choose facilitators we know and have a relationship with and trust and believe in their work, education, values, and overall mission. I choose people who are involved in our community and believe in what we believe in. It has to be alignment with that. “We’ve worked with Laced Hair Extensions, Pivot Point, and Nutrafol. In the past, we’ve worked with Redken, Schedulicity, and many big brands. We have partnered with over 30 brands since 2018.” In a lot of Elizabeth’s education, she works alongside scheduling software brand, Schedulicity. I asked her, how a booking software like Schedulicity helps offer peace of mind and a better work-life balance for stylists. She said: “For many beauty and wellness professionals, booking software is one of their biggest tools and for some of them it's their first form of delegation and automation in their business. For solopreneurs and even salons – it helps them manage retail, reminders, and even can support with some marketing. “More importantly, it helps with managing their client base, time, and their schedule so it’s a big part of their business success. It creates a lot of flow, ease, and peace of mind when it’s set up in an aligned way. “We love Schedulicity because it’s heart-centric, they’re human-centric and we appreciate their values and how they serve their community. Their CEO leads with deep intention and with the mission at the forefront and that’s a core value of the Hair Love brand.”

Regulating Your Nervous System One of Elizabeth’s specialties is nervous system regulation for hairstylists. I asked her to tell us a bit more about this. She explained: “Hairstylists are changing people’s lives and not just by the haircut or color – but from the relationships. We are there for the most intimate parts of someone's life. Through death, divorce, good things, bad things, breakups, and heartbreak. “People feel comfortable telling their stylists, their estheticians, they're nail artists some of the deepest moments of their lives. With that comes a downside. There's an emotional, energetic, and mental drain and burden that can cause. It's like the best part of our career, but it also can be the toughest. Without having tools to manage people’s energy constantly it can be

draining-but it doesn’t have to be this way at all! “I’ve learned all of these tools about holding space, nervous system regulation, and energetic cleaning and it was a lightbulb moment. If I had these tools as a hairstylist, it would have been so helpful – so teaching them that is a game changer and it makes the best part of this career great. I share these at hair shows, in my programs, and with schools. “Nervous system regulation can entail breathwork and small integrations throughout your day. You can shake or squeeze your arms to shift the energy. You can use EFT tapping visualizations to clear your energy along with smoke clearing as well. Lastly, you can use meditation to protect your energy before you start your work so you’re not bringing all of your client’s energy home with you.”

“I’VE LEARNED ALL OF THESE TOOLS ABOUT HOLDING SPACE, NERVOUS SYSTEM REGULATION, AND ENERGETIC CLEANING AND IT WAS A LIGHTBULB MOMENT. IF I HAD THESE TOOLS AS A HAIRSTYLIST, IT WOULD HAVE BEEN SO HELPFUL – SO TEACHING THEM THAT IS A GAME CHANGER AND IT MAKES THE BEST PART OF THIS CAREER GREAT.” 78

Working through stressful situations BY ELIZABETH FAYE

For stylists who are overwhelmed, we recommend a variety of tools and tactics to help you work through these feelings. Let’s dive into how these tools work and how you can use them in your everyday life.

Protect your energy before work: Take a moment before entering other people's space or social media to take a few breaths and sit with what you intend for your day to be like, a moment of protecting your own energy will reap in sustained energy all day, you can even envision a bubble of light wrapped around you protecting your energy field.

Take a few deep breaths: Even as little as three breaths change the state of your nervous system. Try the bliss breath – it is a simple breath where you breathe in through the nose to the count of three, and then slowly exhale to the count of six, this breath relaxes your nervous system and you will feel a melting come over your body.

FOR STYLISTS WHO ARE FEELING OVERWHELMED, OVERWORKED, OR NEARLY BURNED OUT, HERE ARE A FEW SMALL STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO START YOUR HEALING.

Tree shake: Shaking is a very instinctual response to stress and a very effective to way to move frantic or stressful emotions. Start

by taking your hands above your head shaking your hands and slowly making your way down lowering your arms as you shake your hands in a flapping motion. This regulates your nervous system and takes 60 seconds. Add in the bliss breath for extra impact.

4 5

Wipe it off: In between clients, wash your hands and wipe off your arms, legs, chest, and heart area to wipe off anything you

carrying that isn't yours to carry. Hum and sing: Why does it feel so great to sing in the shower? Well, it stimulates your vagus nerve, which is like hitting the "chill

out" button in the body. Humming and singing are quick ways to move energy and regulate your nervous system and it's fun! It's one of my go-to's on the way to work and back daily.

Lean back method: When you find yourself getting too emotionally involved or energetically high-jacked, physically lean back. If it's feeling heavy, break the energy completely and go to the restroom or get a drink of water.

Supportive language: This is key to creating boundaries in conversations that are highly connective and protective. Two phrases I love are ‘That's understandable’, and ‘That makes sense you would feel that way’. Both are compassionate but don't necessarily open up deeper digging or saying that you personally totally agree with or understand.

Notice your body: A huge part of being bodyled is noticing when energy tanks or when it is sustained. Everyone will have different depths and energetic capacities and you must take note of when you are feeling drained, heavy, or energetically tired vs. when you feel energized, lit up, and aligned. Take note and ask what is happening here. and how you can foster more protection and more of my energy being sustained.

You come first! BY NINA TULIO

SELF CARE AND MENTAL WELLNESS HAS BEEN PUSHED TO THE BACK BURNER FOR YEARS IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY. BUT OVER THE LAST FEW YEARS THINGS HAVE SHIFTED. THE PANDEMIC TAUGHT US WHAT IS IMPORTANT AND HOW PRIORITIZING YOURSELF IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST. IN AN INDUSTRY THAT IS CONSTANTLY ABOUT SERVING OTHERS, IT IS NECESSARY TO ENSURE YOU ARE TAKING CARE OF YOUR MIND, BODY AND SOUL. HERE ARE SOME TIPS AND REMINDERS THAT IT IS NOT SELFISH TO PUT YOURSELF FIRST IN YOUR BUSINESS.

Set Boundaries with your schedule: The days of long hours are a thing of the past. Define Work Hours: Clearly establish

your work hours that allow you to create some balance between home and work. Allow yourself consistent time off to rest and recharge without

feeling guilty. TIP: I suggest creating a specialty pricing rate that is used for clients that ask to schedule outside of your regular business hours. If a client asks for an appointment on your day off whether it be for a special occasion or ”emergency” appointment. You are prepared with specialty pricing that makes it worth your time. And if this doesn’t align, you can simply say NO.

Create client systems and policies: Stressing over a no show is out and having systems in place is in.

Clear Communication: Create a no show, cancellation, and late policy and clearly

Build A Supportive Stylist Network: No need to go it alone. Sharing and support: No one knows what it's like to be a hairstylist more than another hairstylist. Take the time to connect with other stylists and share wellness and mental wellness tips. Ask each other how they schedule appointments with ease or what their cancellation policy is. How they say NO to clients when they ask you to work outside your scheduled hours. Leaning into your support group of stylists is essential and so uplifting.

Create a Relaxing Salon Vibe: Ease is the new vibe Ambiance: Ensure your salon has a calming ambiance with music that suits your brand and pleasant scents that make you want to be in your space. Discover the things that make you feel good, safe, relaxed and incorporate them in your space. If you are a commission stylist. Make sure you align with the vibe of the salon you chose to work in. You should feel excited going to work everyday. Support: • Head up! L'oreal has created a FREE mental health training program called Head Up. It was created by hair pros for hair pros in partnership with NAMI. • The Professional Beauty Association offers mental health virtual support sessions by licensed professionals with your membership.

communicate it with your clients through email, and a digital intake form. When they agree to your policies it is way easier for you to follow through. This minimizes stress and allows you to be compensated for your time if they no show or cancel.

In Salon Self-Care Rituals: Not eating or rushing to eat between clients is no longer acceptable.

Regular Breaks: Schedule short breaks between appointments to relax, reset, and be sure to schedule yourself out for a full lunch break. Make it a part of your routine and ritual. I have found that when lunch breaks are scheduled out it forces you to slow down and enjoy the down time. Your energy is precious and you need fuel to keep you going throughout the day.

“DISCOVER THE THINGS THAT MAKE YOU FEEL GOOD, SAFE, RELAXED AND INCORPORATE THEM IN YOUR SPACE. MAKE SURE YOU ALIGN WITH THE VIBE OF THE SALON YOU CHOSE TO WORK IN.”

The Healthy Hairdresser Challenge BY DANIELLE KEASLING

LET'S KICK OFF THE NEW YEAR WITH A GROUP RESOLUTION FOR A HEALTHIER AND MORE BALANCED LIFESTYLE. WE KNOW THE STRUGGLE OF BROKEN NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS, AND AS HAIRDRESSERS, WE OFTEN PUT OTHERS FIRST, AND NEVER OURSELVES. LET’S STRIVE TOGETHER TO CHANGE THAT, STARTING NOW. As a long-time hairstylist, salon owner, and now busier than ever jet-setting editorial stylist, I've discovered effective ways to maintain my energy and well-being. For fellow beauty professionals, I'm sharing my top three balancing acts to inspire self-care and a positive mindset. These practices require preparation and discipline, and simplicity and consistency is key. By framing it as an "industry challenge" and building a supportive community, we can make it a sustainable and enjoyable way of life. Let's prioritize our health and happiness together! 1. Treat Your Body Right: Exercise, Feed Your Brain, Hydrate, Rest Hydration is key! Make it a priority to drink half your body weight in ounces of water daily. To make it easier, keep a large jug of water handy and mix in electrolyte powders for added benefits. Choose powders infused with vitamins for revitalization,

l-theanine and magnesium for stress reduction, or ginseng for energy. Embrace the natural power of hydration and enjoy the rejuvenating effects. Don't forget to take breaks for stretching and deep breathing on your way to and from the bathroom (we must make time for these basics!). Don't forget to set yourself up for healthier food choices. While it's important not to rely solely on protein bars, they can be a smart meal replacement when you're on the go, avoiding high-calorie options or relying on coffee for energy. When selecting protein bars, opt for high protein, low carb (16 grams or less), low-to-no sugar, and high fiber (subtract fiber grams from carbs for net carbs). Additionally, stock up on carrot chips, boiled eggs, lean proteins, and cheese as alternatives to chips and crackers. Rest is a top priority. Establishing a bedtime routine that promotes restful sleep, like reading or practicing relaxation techniques, is essential. The key is to stick to it consistently. Light a candle, use essential oils, play meditation or frequency music, write in a journal, or read ten pages of inspiring writing. Find a beloved ritual that signals your body and mind to take a break. Remember, even if you can’t sleep, lying quietly in a dark room counts big time! Rest is crucial for your well-being, enabling you to be your best self for your clients. 2. Set Realistic Goals: Practice Time Management Setting realistic and achievable resolutions for personal growth involves strategic time management. Instead of overwhelming yourself with a long list of goals, choose a few that genuinely resonate with you. Put a creative name to them to make it more of a game than a challenge. For example, establish a Tech Tuesday, a set weekly time to schedule your social media so it’s not a lingering distraction. Block a couple

Photo Credit: Richard Monsieurs/ Headshot: Roberto Ligresti

of hours to take pictures and schedule posts that keep you in touch with your customers; aim for one before-and-after and a gratitude post each week as a place to start. One of my favorite hacks has been establishing the "Hour of Power," where we dedicate an hour daily to work or home maintenance tasks. Use it to tidy up, declutter, run errands, sort through mail, or tackle something you’ve been putting off. You'll be amazed at the impact of just one hour on your business and personal life. Set a timer, play music, and count it as a workout if you hustle. Chip away at tasks daily and invite others to join for double the productivity. 3. Find Your Balance: Prioritize Self-Care and Mindfulness As a stylist, it's crucial to find a balance between serving clients and taking care of yourself. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it's necessary. Embrace being present with each client, giving tasks your full attention. Keep a notebook at your station to reflect on challenges, improvements, and moments of gratitude. These small actions promote calm and clarity in your personal and professional life. Cultivating inner peace equips you to handle the demands of your profession gracefully. The important thing is you schedule this and stick to it. Taking just 10 minutes to stretch won't disrupt your life. By leading by example, you show others how to prioritize and balance time. Caring for your needs equips you to serve clients and loved ones with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Join me in the Healthy Hairdresser Challenge! Please share your favorite self-care practices by tagging me @hairbizandbeyond and @salonevomag. If you have work/life hacks to help others, we’d love to share them with our community.

“SELF-CARE IS NOT AN EXPENSE; IT’S AN INVESTMENT.” 81

Celebrating

Support While Covid-19 sparked a catalyst of stylists and beauty professionals turning away from the traditional salon structures, and working for themselves as freelance or mobile stylists, we are now starting to see a transition of professionals seeking roles within salons, especially institutions such as Ulta Beauty. Why? Because of the support, structure, leadership, and opportunities available. Head of Education & Creative at Ulta Beauty, Anna Manukyan, said: “We take great care in making sure that our salon professionals have best-in-class resources for a long-term, successful career. We provide paid education, benefits, and performance bonuses to ensure that while they’re taking care of their guests, our salon professionals are cared for by Ulta Beauty.”

While self-employed models can look financially enticing, they often don’t turn out to be as profitable as you might think, as often the overhead expenses are vastly underestimated. At Ulta Beauty, professionals don’t have to worry about anything but the client in their chair, and their goals for the future. Anna explained: “We offer up to 70% commission and no product costs, no towel fees, no overhead expenses, and an assistant stylist once you reach a certain level. We provide medical benefits, 401k, and paid education while prioritizing flexible scheduling and career development.” Ulta Beauty ensures that the well-being of its employees is covered from every angle. Anna explained: “In terms of financial health, we provide a very competitive commission structure as well as education and business resources to help stylists make six-plus figures.

THERE ARE MANY ROUTES TO SUCCESS IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY. WHILE THE LAST FEW YEARS SPARKED A MOVEMENT TOWARDS FREELANCE AND SELFEMPLOYED MODELS, THESE DAYS, MORE AND MORE BEAUTY PROFESSIONALS ARE RETURNING TO EMPLOYMENT, ESPECIALLY AT WORKPLACES LIKE ULTA BEAUTY, BECAUSE OF THE SUPPORT, LEADERSHIP, AND BENEFITS OFFERED. “In the case of physical health, we offer medical benefits and paid leave. One of the benefits of working at Ulta Beauty is we plan for breaks and meals to support stylist well-being during their shifts. While the requirements vary from state to state, we know how important it is to pause refuel, and recharge so our stylists can provide amazing experiences to our guests. I know this sounds like such a small thing, but so many self-employed stylists never allow themselves breaks, which leads to burnout and injuries!” Ulta Beauty also ensures that employees are on a career path that aligns with their personal goals and that everyone feels supported. Anna said: “We provide personalized education and business-building resources with our field education and design teams. We also focus on telling our stylists stories across the beauty industry through numerous activations. Check out

“ONE OF THE MANY BENEFITS OF EDUCATION AT ULTA BEAUTY IS THAT STYLISTS ARE PAID TO ATTEND ALL IN-PERSON CLASSES. THIS ENSURES THAT STYLISTS CAN BUILD TRAINING INTO THEIR WEEK WITHOUT THE FEAR THAT THIS WILL SIGNIFICANTLY IMPACT THEIR INCOME.” – SARAH DAHL 82

our wall of fame next time you see our booth at a show! Additionally, our top performing stylists are celebrated annually with a special trip focusing on community, education, and celebrating their achievements and hard work.” Sarah Dahl, Director of Service Field Education, shared how Ulta Beauty’s education system plays a role in employee wellbeing. She said: “One of the many benefits of education at Ulta Beauty is that stylists are paid to attend all in-person classes. This ensures that stylists can build training into their week without the fear that this will significantly impact their income.” This means stylists can fully engage in education and be completely present. “There is no worry that they will have to make up for their time out of the business due to missed sales. Attending education is not a trade-off for being a productive stylist.” Leslie Hilger-Cooper, Service District Educator for Dallas East said: “The best thing about Ulta Beauty is that not only do we support our stylists' personal goals financially, we support their artistry and their knowledge. I get an amazing opportunity to support the education side and teach them tips and tricks to grow their clientele. It’s all about working smarter, not harder! “Our management inside stores always really lean in when they are needed- whether it’s a day off or flexing a schedule. Maybe it’s figuring out what goals can be realistically achieved for the needs of our stylists’ business. We also have a focus on mental health and an HR department that has the resources for anyone struggling day to day.” Summer Bappert, Service District Educator for Mid-Atlantic, added: “Within the well thought out structure of our services professional’s business plan we have multiple resources to help our teams gain a better understanding of what their passions are and how truly achievable their goals can be. For example, we implement monthly goal-setting meetings to not only gain an understanding of the motivational drivers of our professionals but also allow us to help them navigate through areas of opportunities and focus on growing in their personal and professional lives. In addition to technical education, we have business acumen

and financial planning to help support the growth and longevity of career-minded professionals in this forever-changing industry. Support, encouragement, and continual celebration around our team’s milestone moments are what drives us as a company of industry-leading professionals. WE STAND TRUE TO OUR MOTTO… THE POSSIBILITIES ARE BEAUTIFUL. We spoke to a few members of the Ulta Beauty community about how they have been supported, and help to support their co-workers. Annie Head, an Elite Stylist at Ulta Beauty in Hodgkins, IL said: “I previously worked at an independent salon, and switching to Ulta Beauty was the BEST decision I have ever made. Not only are there people constantly cheering you on, but there are so many growth opportunities. There are other benefits as well, but I live for the Ulta Beauty culture. I thrive on structure and Ulta Beauty has an outstanding way of working with their stylists. Some schedules work for us as individuals, we work optimal times for our productivity. They are phenomenal at work/life balance. Not to mention, there is insurance, paid vacation, and sick time-which all come in handy as being a mother. Ulta Beauty also partakes in a tuition assistance program for college that I am currently utilizing, I can work full time and Ulta helps me in continuing to build my education to further my career. It is because of Ulta Beauty I can show my daughter that anything is possible, at any stage in life.” Elite Stylist based at the Downtown Chicago Ulta Beauty, Zoe Starovich, said: “One of the most valuable aspects of working at Ulta Beauty is the continued education opportunities. The company understands that staying on top of the latest trends in style, products, and tools is essential for providing exceptional service to your clients. Through regular workshops, seminars, and training sessions, Ulta Beauty ensures its stylists are always at the forefront of the industry. The company's marketing stays on-trend and realistic, drawing in clients who appreciate a wide array of high-quality services. Achieving the same quality training and marketing as a self-employed stylist would be unattainable without the level of talent Ulta Beauty’s corporate team provides.”

“THE BEST THING ABOUT ULTA BEAUTY IS THAT NOT ONLY DO WE SUPPORT OUR STYLIST'S PERSONAL GOALS FINANCIALLY, WE SUPPORT THEIR ARTISTRY AND THEIR KNOWLEDGE.” - LESLIE HILGERCOOPER

Under the cut

FORMER CELEBRITY STYLIST AND EDUCATOR, DENESE MARSHALL'S JOURNEY FROM THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY TO BECOMING A LICENSED MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR LED HER TO RECOGNIZE THE LACK OF MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS EDUCATION WITHIN THE COSMETOLOGY FIELD. IN TURN, SHE DEVELOPED UNDER THE CUT, WHICH AIMS TO EMPOWER SALON PROFESSIONALS TO NAVIGATE, RELATE, AND RESPOND TO CLIENT BEHAVIORS WHILE PROTECTING THEIR MENTAL HEALTH AND ACHIEVING CAREER SUCCESS.

Beginning her journey in the hair and beauty industry at 17 years old, Denese now has nearly three decades of salon experience under her belt, having experienced everything from being a commissioned stylist, leasing her own space, and managing the Aveda Institute. “At one point, I was even a medical esthetician for a plastic surgeon in New York. I really feel like I have covered nearly every aspect of this industry.” However, Denese’s interests did not only lie within the world of hair, so she later went on to study for her license, and her master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counselling. She said: “As

“UNDER THE CUT IDENTIFIES AND INTRODUCES NEW BEHAVIORS AND PRACTICES THAT SALON PROFESSIONALS OF ALL LEVELS CAN IMPLEMENT IMMEDIATELY TO SUPPORT CAREER ELEVATION ACROSS CLIENT COMMUNICATIONS, RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT, AND WORK-LIFE BALANCE”

time went on, I started realizing that there was actually a lot of overlap in the salon industry with the mental health industry. I started to notice all of the dysfunctions and struggles that hairdressers go through, that I experienced when I was in the industry. And that’s when all these little pieces of the puzzle started coming together.” Drawing on her decades of experience as both a stylist and a therapist, Denese envisioned a solution to bridge this gap and create a curriculum that would help salon professionals elevate their careers through self-awareness and psychological insights. "Under the Cut identifies and introduces new behaviors and practices that salon professionals of all levels can implement immediately to support career elevation across client communications, relationship management, and work-life balance," said Denese. "Our vision is to empower every salon professional with the tools to initiate positive change in their lives and become the best version of themselves by exploring their own core beliefs and understanding not only their reactions but gaining some awareness into their client’s reactions as well." When talking about mental health, especially in the beauty industry, a word that comes up a lot is ‘boundaries’, drawing a defined line between your work life and your personal life. But Denese explained her slightly different approach when it comes to discussing boundaries, and lack thereof. She explained: “It is true to say that boundaries are very important when creating a work-life balance. But rather than focusing on setting boundaries, I like to look at why it is hard for that individual to have boundaries. The second question I like to ask is, do we really need to have boundaries if we are self-regulated and taking care of ourselves in all areas of life?

“You don’t have to feel like you’re putting up a brick wall. Instead, I like to look at why it’s hard for you to have boundaries in the first place. Have you over-connected with your client? Have you overshared with them? Have they overshared with you, and you now know too much about their history and you’re willing to bend yourself into knots to accommodate?” We all face our good days and our bad days at work and at home. But what are some of the signs that maybe it’s time to seek help from someone like Denese about implementing better practices? Denese said: “Burnout comes out in every way, from that feeling of dread and exhaustion before you’ve even walked through the door, losing patience with clients and colleagues, and then when you’re depleted like that, your creativity goes out the window. So, you end up getting those redo’s because you’re tired and you’re not able to hear what your client is saying, so then you just get trapped in this vicious cycle of bad days.” If you’re feeling like this, it’s time to start breaking out of these negative patterns. And the first step is becoming aware of them. Under the Cut is available to book/purchase as an in-salon workshop, live virtual class, or on-demand course series (coming soon!). Customized programming for speaking engagements is also available. Hosted by Denese herself, participants gain valuable insights, support tools, and solutions to overcome the emotional demands of the salon environment and develop a psychology-based response approach. The curriculum covers various topics, including understanding client behaviors, setting sustainable boundaries, navigating emotional nuances, and prioritizing mental health and wellness in the salon setting.

Finding Balance IF SOMEONE HAD TOLD ME YEARS AGO THAT I WOULD CREATE AND PATENT A HAIR EXTENSION METHOD AND EDUCATE IN 24 COUNTRIES ACROSS THE WORLD, I WOULD HAVE LAUGHED IN DISBELIEF. What I also didn’t see coming was the intense and difficult journey I was about to embark on with my mental, emotional, and physical health. I’m just gonna keep things raw and real here with you all. Throughout the past four years of building my business, I have struggled immensely to prioritize my health and well-being. I’ve always been extremely active and have worked out at the gym since I was 15 years old. It was a part of my identity. But one year into creating IBE® I quit working out entirely. I was so emotionally drained; I really didn’t want to leave my house. I was holding space for so many stylists going through education and mentorship, that I truly did not have enough space for myself. I woke up with anxiety every day, fearing what the day would bring. I wasn’t afraid of work, that was the easy part. It was the fear of what was going to be said about me on social media. It was the anxiety of having so much to do each day, and yet still trying to be a present mother to my four children and hold space for each one of the stylists I was mentoring. It was the stress of managing a quickly growing company all on my own. Fear, anxiety, stress. Rinse and repeat. Many people use the quote, ‘Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life’. I’m going to have to respectfully disagree. I absolutely loved what I was doing. I sincerely believe most of us in

this industry do! Being able to mentor hairstylists continues to be one of the most gratifying experiences in my life. Building a rapidly growing global brand was exhilarating and exciting, but I have never worked as hard as I have the past four years! I have never been so mentally exhausted by the end of the day. I am the type of person who lives in extremes, and I’ve come to realize that many of us in this industry share that same characteristic! It can be an incredible tool, pushing us to achieve great success behind the chair. But there are times when living in the extreme is not healthy or sustainable. It took a few years of experiencing very difficult moments for me to make the changes I needed to find balance. Actually, let me rephrase that, it’s not balance I have found… it’s harmony. For me, harmony is alignment with self, inner peace, and a constant and steady striving for a positive mindset. One of the things that helped me reclaim that piece of mind was building the right team. We are all surrounded by an ecosystem of people who interact with us daily, and they really can help us move forward or absolutely stifle our growth. It took just over three years to finally feel like I had the right people on my team, who shared the same vision for my brand. This year has been completely different now that I have surrounded myself with the right people. Don’t discredit how much of an influence those around you can have on your mental health! I have gained so much peace by curating my social media as well. When I speak about reclaiming your peace and harmony by keeping only positive people around you, this also extends into the influence of social media. In our industry, it is difficult to navigate because our marketing heavily relies on social media platforms. But one key point I have realized is that we are the creators, not the consumers. Once you begin consuming more than you create, your harmony will undoubtedly be skewed, and the burnout will quickly creep in. Make sure to follow accounts that hit you with that “feel good” endorphin. I suggest you reach outside of the industry for information and inspiration. No one can force you to be grounded, yet it’s integral if you want a long-lasting career. This industry needs you to be healthy and your clients need you to be healthy. So don’t wait for permission and be your own advocate for positive change. It's never too late to make the shift.

BY KRISTIN KAIDE

Life on the Move

BEING AN INTERNATIONAL HAIRSTYLIST IS A DREAM FOR MANY. WHILE UNDOUBTEDLY EXHILARATING, FREQUENT TRAVEL, VARYING WORK CONDITIONS, AND A LACK OF FAMILIARITY CAN BE DISORIENTING. HERE ARE MY INSIGHTS, TIPS, AND TRICKS TO HELP YOU NAVIGATE THE GLOBAL TERRITORY. I recently returned from what can only be described as a whirlwind world tour—aka Fashion Week. Fashion week involves four consecutive weeks of non-stop fashion shows in some of the world's most iconic cities: New York, London, Milan, and Paris. It's a month-long event filled with excitement, but it can also be incredibly taxing. It’s an intense period of creativity where you’re consistently pushing your physical and mental limits. Additionally, building a global clientele takes time and effort. Financial stability can be a concern, especially for those just starting their journey in the world of international hairstyling. Despite these challenges, the rewards are immense, and the experiences are unforgettable. Thoughtful packing can make or break a trip. You need to plan not just what to pack, but how and when you'll use these items. With frequent travel, you might find yourself heading straight to work from the plane, leaving no time for unpacking. In such cases, having your first-day outfit and necessary toiletries

easily accessible is a lifesaver. opt for clothing that doesn't wrinkle easily for this outfit, as you might have to change into it straight off of a long flight. Since you can't pack aerosols, scissors, or full-size products in your carry-on, it's crucial to organize your essentials efficiently. Start by packing your kit's necessities, and then add your "just-in-case" bags based on available space. When you arrive at your destination, reverse the process to keep your essentials on top and easily accessible. To avoid spills, pack all hair products in resealable bags with their caps facing up. Be prepared for any last-minute needs by researching beauty supply stores near your work locations. Don’t forget your staple items that aren’t beauty related, like blister bandaids, pain relievers, and hand wipes. Having a kit for curly hair is a must, as you’ll need to be prepared for any hair type you might encounter backstage. While shows are often sponsored by specific brands, it's essential to carry

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your core favorite products just in case they don’t have what you need. Cover labels to avoid conflicting sponsorships when using other brands. All of my hot tools are dual voltage and I travel with a large power strip that doubles as a converter and adapter. I am too risk-averse to attempt using a US blow dryer during fashion week internationally. I purchased one in Europe just to ensure I won’t be the one to blow any fuses. I’m not saying it’s the right thing to do, or only thing to do, all I’m saying is I’m not going to be the one to risk it. I also carry a single-use adapter to have with me in my purse. Keep it handy for when you need to move around, or situations like charging your phone in a coffee shop between shows. Ride shares and cabs may not always be reliable, especially during fashion week when cities like Paris have pedestrian-only zones due to street closures. Therefore, it's wise to keep your kit light and portable. Use carry-on size luggage for your equipment to navigate stairs, cobblestone streets, and venues without elevators with ease. Things are going to go wrong. It’s inevitable. Plan for this the best you can. Leave early and get ready even earlier. At any time, the call time can change to earlier in the day so stay ready. Fashion week often entails long hours, variable weather conditions, and a mix of indoor and outdoor work. Layer your clothing to ensure comfort throughout the day. Keep your ID accessible but safely stored, as you may need it to enter certain venues and sign in backstage. One of the most rewarding aspects of being an international hairstylist is the opportunity to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Hair transcends language and geography, offering universal joy in the art of transformation. Being an independent hairstylist is undoubtedly an exciting and rewarding career, but it comes with its unique challenges. Preparation, adaptability, and self-reliance are the keys to success in this industry. By following these tips and tricks, you can navigate the fast-paced world of global beauty. So, pack your bags, prepare your kit, and get ready to embark on an incredible journey as an international hairstylist. Remember, the road to success is paved with wellpacked carry-ons, adaptability, and a passion for creating art through hair.

“PACK YOUR BAGS, PREPARE YOUR KIT, AND GET READY TO EMBARK ON AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY AS AN INTERNATIONAL HAIRSTYLIST.”

"INDUSTRY ALIGNED: WHERE STRENGTH IS NEVER A WEAKNESS” JENNY KHAN AND DAVID CASTLE, TWO VISIONARY INDIVIDUALS, HAVE JOINED FORCES TO PIONEER A GROUNDBREAKING INITIATIVE THEY'VE NAMED "INDUSTRY ALIGNED." THEY'RE ON A MISSION TO ADDRESS PERVASIVE AND OFTEN-DISCUSSED CONCERNS WITHIN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY IN ORDER TO UPHOLD A CULTURE OF HEALTH AND WELLNESS THROUGHOUT THE BEAUTY PROFESSIONAL'S CAREER. David has over 24 years of experience in the health and fitness sector, specializing in human biomechanics and nutrition. He has managed corporate gyms and owned an online coaching business, but his current focus lies squarely on supporting beauty professionals. Jenny, has been in the hair industry for 18 years. In the early stages of her career, she voiced concerns about shoulder pain and joint discomfort. Regrettably, responses from industry veterans often carried a dismissive tone. Statements such as, 'You're too young to be experiencing pain. What will you do for the rest of your career?' left her in contemplative silence. According to Jenny, she once was the stereotypical unhealthy hairdresser, living with excess weight, smoking, drinking, and insatiable eating habits. The wake-up call arrived in 2014, propelling Jenny onto a transformative journey. Shedding 45 pounds and making substantial changes to her personal life over two years, she eventually encountered David.

“THE INDUSTRY IS RIPE FOR CHANGE, AND INDUSTRY ALIGNED CONSTITUTES A PIVOTAL STRIDE TOWARD A HEALTHIER, MORE EMPOWERED PROFESSION.”

Upon accepting his guidance in devising a customized nutrition and fitness plan, she noticed improvements within a mere month. Daily aches subsided, her posture improved, and the physical transformations were significant. The spark ignited, and they began to strategize— humorously referred to as "scheming." From this scheming, Industry Aligned emerged. In April 2019, Jenny's body began issuing alarming signals. One morning, she woke up immobilized by excruciating pain. An emergent MRI unveiled herniated C5 and C6 spinal discs. Warning signs had manifested earlier — shocks down her arms during shampoos, sporadic numbness — symptoms she had brushed aside. Sadly, they persisted. Surgery was recommended, but she opted for physical therapy. After nine agonizing weeks without improvement, the specter of permanent nerve damage loomed. David's intervention averted immediate surgery, restoring her to normalcy. Her subsiquent revelation was profound: others too could lead healthy lives without resorting to medication, injections, and needless surgeries. David's personal journey is a poignant tale of resilience and determination. At a tender age of 30, he grappled with low energy and cognitive fog. Seeking medical help, he received a misdiagnosis and excessive medication. While on new medication, he collapsed one day. He experienced cardiac arrest in the ambulance en route to the hospital and once more at the hospital itself. Placed in a medically induced coma, David awoke to the news that he might never walk again. Despair set in. His tendons had deteriorated, preventing him from flexing his foot, and his retinas had become so sensitive that reading was impossible. Yet, alongside the depression, determination surged. Condemned to an impending death, he resolved to shape his fate. He started by raising a can of coke above his head—an action that initially caused him

to faint. Over time, he progressed to using a walker and then a cane. Apart from relearning basic motor skills such as walking, he had to regain fine motor skills like speaking. Though his health challenges persist, his story stands as a testament to seizing control over one's health. So, what steps can hairstylists take to safeguard their well-being? David's counsel begins with heightened awareness and understanding of one's body positions. Rather than outrightly banning certain stances, the emphasis lies in introducing movement and diversity throughout the day. Joints are designed for mobility. Physical strength doesn't necessitate gym memberships or elaborate equipment. Industry Aligned meets individuals where they are, endorsing movement even within the confines of one's home. Drawing from her personal journey, Jenny underscores that every individual's body moves uniquely. From widening stances to adopting lunge-like postures, movement remains pivotal. Following her injury, she recognized the significance of alternating positions and urges others to incorporate more motion into their routines. Both Jenny and David acknowledge that beauty professionals often experience discomfort in passive joints like knees and elbows. By directing attention to joints with greater range of motion, strain can be alleviated, and these joints can be preserved. Their united message reverberates resoundingly: The industry is ripe for change, and Industry Aligned constitutes a pivotal stride toward a healthier, more empowered profession. This calling isn't solely for hairstylists; it's an invitation for anyone seeking to cultivate resilience in their daily lives. Strength is never synonymous with weakness, and with Jenny and David at the helm, Industry Aligned stands poised to effect a lasting transformation.

INTER IORS

ARE YOU GOING INTO 2024 THINKING, ‘NEW YEAR, NEW ME’? HOW ABOUT ‘NEW YEAR, NEW SALON’? IF YOU’RE WANTING TO GIVE YOUR SALON A FACELIFT THIS YEAR, OR EVEN EXPAND TO A NEW SPACE, HERE ARE SOME TIPS AND PIECES OF INSPIRATION TO HELP YOU CREATE A BEAUTIFUL BEAUTY BUSINESS. 88

INSPIRED BY

CURLTURE

CURLTURE SALON IN SANTA ROSA, CA, IS A HAVEN FOR THE CURLY FOLKS AND STYLISTS WHO ARE COMMITTED TO EDUCATION, MASTERY, AND CREATING A WARM AND WELCOMING ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL. WE SPOKE TO CO-OWNERS, LYDIA CARPENTER AND QUINN BISHOP, TO HEAR ABOUT THE CULTURE OF CURLTURE. Lydia and Quinn began their journey together in 2017. Lydia explained: “When I first met Quinn back in 2017 she was an independent stylist in her own studio, and I was fresh to the industry. Even though we had our differences in backgrounds, we quickly became close, bonded by our passion and unwavering ambition of creating a safe haven for naturally textured guests, and a lifelong career for the next generation of stylists.” So, after forming such a tight bond, and having a clear vision of the future, Lydia and Quinn opened Curlture in 2020. Lydia said: “Curlture Salon was founded from a mindset of curiosity, passion, a desire for life-long development. Built on the foundation of being a team-based company, we choose collaborating, living from a place of abundance, and innovation, and our commitment to giving back. “The gap we saw in the beauty industry was the lack of curly hair specialists and the need for strong leadership. We saw there was a need from our guests, a need for beauty professionals to understand the entire range of wavy curls all the way to the tightest of coils. A need for a curly sanctuary where each person felt seen, cared for, and served as their true, beautiful, self. And we saw a need for stylists, a need for continued education, career possibilities, financial stability, and a guaranteed schedule that fit their lives. Our devoted stylists serve our clientele, and as the leaders; Quinn and I serve our team in creating an abundant

future that they have security in.” Of course, the timing wasn’t on Lydia and Quinn’s side when it came to opening Curlture. Lydia said: “2020 was probably the hardest time to open a salon, considering 10 weeks later we were shut down due to the outbreak of Covid-19. For the next two years, we had no idea when we would be fully open again, and what the future of our business looked like. “In late 2021, we opened back up fully, masked up and ready to serve our guests. What happened next had Quinn and I in tears… Every single one of our guests came back to us. They had waited and waited and waited. And when it was time, they returned to us. In addition, an unexpected

“CURLTURE SALON WAS FOUNDED FROM A MINDSET OF CURIOSITY, PASSION, A DESIRE FOR LIFE-LONG DEVELOPMENT.

occurrence that happened during the lockdowns, people were forced to wear their hair naturally because they didn't have access to their usual stylist. And when we opened back up, we received a flood of new clients, ready and eager to embrace their newfound curls.” While the beginnings weren’t all smooth sailing, Lydia and Quinn have seen success after success, and are now excited to be announcing an expansion of Curlture Salon in the Spring of 2024. “With this expansion, we will be onboarding more curl specialists, the ability to serve our communities more, and so much more to come.” Now, let’s talk about Curlture’s space. The salon is filled with earth tones, natural light, and soft touches. Lydia’s words to describe the space are: “Liveable luxury, earthy tones, light, functional, welcoming, home.” These design choices were made very deliberately, in the effort to make the salon a haven. Somewhere where clients can feel 100% comfortable and at ease. The salon space mirrors celebrating clients’ natural hair textures with the use of a lot of natural

textures in the textiles and furnishings of the salon. Lydia said: “In working with naturally curly hair, we are embracing, encouraging, and welcoming our guests exactly as they are. And oftentimes, this is their first time having someone celebrate their natural texture and everything that comes along with it. Which in turn, can be a very vulnerable thing. “We want for each person who walks through our front door to know they are welcomed with open arms into our space. They are loved, cared for, and will always have a safe haven to be their authentic self at Curlture.” In designing Curlture Salon, it was important to Quinn that the salon felt like home, welcoming, bright, warm, and clean, and also was equipped with durable quality tools to maintain the high functioning, long-lasting, demands of the salon. She explained: “The primary brands we sourced from were Anthropology, West Elm, Takara Belmont, and custom-designed furniture. We chose to work with these designers for a multitude of reasons. With Anthropology and West Elm, we

“O&M HOLDS A HIGH INTEGRITY TO PRODUCING A HAIR COLOR LINE(S) THAT DON’T CONTAIN TOXINS THAT SO MANY OTHER COLOR LINES HAVE.”

“TAKARA BELMONT PRODUCES INCREDIBLE, LUXURIOUS, COMFORTABLE SALON CHAIRS AND SHAMPOO BOWLS THAT PROVIDE A RELAXING EXPERIENCE TO EACH PERSON.” were drawn to mid-century modern, with a twist, appearance. The natural textures, earthy tones, and comfortable feeling brought together so much of what we wanted to implement in our space. “Our salon equipment is all from Takara Belmont. Takara Belmont produces incredible, luxurious, comfortable salon chairs and shampoo bowls that provide a relaxing experience to each person.” Lydia and Quinn thought very carefully about every element and brand used in the salon, from the furniture brands to the product brands. For haircare, their go-to is Innersense Organic Beauty, for many reasons, including their company support, their clean products, their large range, and their integrity. For the color line, the choice is Original & Mineral: “O&M holds high integrity to producing a hair color line(s) that don’t contain toxins that so many other color lines have. “Within the company of O&M, they created a specific color line called Cor.color. This color excludes the use of ammonia, PPD, MEA, and resorcinol. These are all harsh ingredients that can negatively impact humans, the earth, and animals. These were all crucially important factors to me when I chose to work with this line.” I asked Lydia about her favorite elements of the salon's interior. She said: “The floors and ceiling

are definitely a favorite to us. Our floors have this unique design that starts out as wood flooring and then begins to transition naturally into hexagon tile as you walk into the shampoo bowl area of the salon. Similar to how the ocean meets the sand on a beach; a natural soft transition of textures and color. “And when designing the salon, we opened up a portion of the ceiling to create a vaulted section that has smooth white rafter beams connecting together. This added more depth to the salon, as well as making the space look bigger. “We also love our plants: we have named each one. I think we have close to 50 plants now, and yes, all of them have names.” Lydia and Quinn offered a few pieces of advice for those who are opening their own salons. Quinn said: “The most important factors we implement, are investing in your space, choosing quality over quantity, taking and comparing samples of everything, and always investing the most into lighting. “Our advice to other salon owners is: don’t worry about the aesthetic design until after you do the big stuff first. Finish all the flooring, equipment choices, and architectural layout. And then all the fun, artsy, stuff after. And again, invest the most in your lighting. This will drastically change the outcome.”

THE SPA EXPERIENCE MANY SALONS AND BEAUTY BUSINESSES LIKE TO EMULATE THE EXPERIENCE OF HIGH-END SPAS, CREATING CALMING AND IDYLLIC SPACES TO HELP THEIR CLIENTS RESET. WE SPOKE TO SONAL PATEL, FOUNDER OF WOODHOUSE SPA NORTH HILLS, RALEIGH, NC, ABOUT CREATING THAT SPA EXPERIENCE THROUGH INTERIOR DESIGN.

Woodhouse Spa North Hills, founded by Sonal Patel, opened its doors in November 2022. Sonal explained: “Our spa offers a range of luxurious services, from rejuvenating massages to advanced facial treatments. Guests adore Woodhouse Spa for its commitment to "mood care," providing a haven where relaxation and well-being intersect.” At Woodhouse Spa, the ethos revolves around creating an immersive experience for patrons. “We aim to transport our guests to a state of deep relaxation, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. Every visit is a journey towards balance, tranquillity, and the indulgence of one's senses,” explained Sonal. In a spa setting, every sense is catered to, from the smell, and the sounds, to the layout and furnishings. We asked Sonal how the interior design of Woodhouse Spa plays a role in the client experience. “At Woodhouse Spa North Hills, our interior design is a celebration of organic warmth

and soothing coziness. Enveloped in earth tones and guided by a minimalist approach, our spa offers a unique escape. The ambiance is thoughtfully crafted to evoke a sense of tranquility, embracing simplicity without compromising on luxury. This distinctive design not only sets us apart from other day spas but also ensures that every corner of Woodhouse Spa is a serene retreat for our valued guests.” At Woodhouse Spa North Hills, the interior design is a masterful blend of earthy comfort and minimalist elegance. Guests frequently find solace in the loungers, especially in the inviting Quiet Room. Here, retractable dividing curtains offer both privacy and the flexibility for small groups to share moments of tranquility. Sonal said: “Throughout the spa, we've curated a variety of textures to enhance the cozy ambiance. From the plush loungers to the soothing treatment rooms, each space is meticulously designed to envelop our guests in warmth and comfort.

“THE MAGIC HAPPENS WHEN DESIGN SEAMLESSLY BLENDS FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS, INVITING CLIENTS INTO A SPACE WHERE SERENITY MEETS STYLE.”

Our focus on providing a multi-sensory experience ensures that every visit to Woodhouse Spa is an indulgent escape into a world of serenity and style.” Another element that contributes to the spa experience is the quality of the brands used. Sonal said: “Woodhouse Spa North Hills is proud to feature a selection of top-tier skincare brands, ensuring our clients experience the pinnacle of indulgence and effectiveness. Among our esteemed lineup are renowned names like BABOR, iSClinical, Skinceuticals, Farmhouse Fresh, and more. These brands, celebrated for their premium formulations, cater to a diverse range of skincare needs, reflecting our commitment to excellence. “One of our standout offerings is the HydraFacial, a revolutionary treatment that takes skincare to new heights. This advanced technology combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, and antioxidant protection in a single, luxurious experience. At Woodhouse Spa, we believe in

Furniture: Kaemark Brands used: BABOR, iSClinical Skinceuticals, Farmhouse Fresh, HydraFacial Booking service: Zenoti

offering nothing but the best, and our skincare choices reflect our dedication to providing unparalleled results.” So, what can hair salons and beauty bars learn from the spa experience? Sonal said: “Hair and nail salons can draw inspiration by infusing a sense of tranquillity into their spaces. Consider incorporating warm and neutral tones, plush furnishings, and thoughtful lighting. Invest in quality, customized furniture that aligns with your brand. The magic happens when design seamlessly blends functionality and aesthetics, inviting clients into a space where serenity meets style. “Prioritize the infusion of natural light, and you'll transform your salon into a tranquil retreat, providing clients with not just a service but an immersive and rejuvenating experience. Ultimately, create an environment that not only caters to functional needs but elevates the overall client experience, making every visit a sensory delight.”

EVO IN THE

CITY L A S

V E G A S

WHAT HAPPENS IN VEGAS… THIS ISSUE EVO TAKES ON THE FABULOUS CITY OF LAS VEGAS. WHILE VEGAS IS KNOWN FOR MANY THINGS, THE CITY’S HAIR AND BEAUTY SECTOR IS OFTEN OVERLOOKED. BUT WITH SO MANY A-LIST CELEBRITIES AND HIGHFLYERS COMING THROUGH THE CITY ON A DAILY BASIS, WHERE ARE THE STARS GOING TO GET BEAUTIFIED? SALONEVO TOOK A BET ON LAS VEGAS AND WON BIG. POPPY + THE WILDFLOWER COLLECTIVE//SUMMERLIN Step out of the hustle and bustle of the Las Vegas strip, and you will find the idyllic neighborhood of Summerlin, with cute and funky businesses like Las Vegas-native Cena Jordan’s Poppy Collective and Wildflower Collective. Cena Jordan’s salons are everything the Las Vegas Strip is not. They are airy, calm, and nature-inspired. These modern and elegant, yet unpretentious salons have made waves in the Las Vegas community, becoming the go-to salons for the cool, modern Las Vegas locals. After the success of The Wildflower Collective, in early 2022, Cena made the jump to open a slightly larger sister salon, The Poppy Collective. The Poppy Collective features a large salon space, a healthy retail section (with both hair and lifestyle goods,) as well as a hidden oasis of a coffee bar, called Palm Sugar Coffee, making it a daily destination, whether you want a haircut or not! Poppy and Wildflower’s team is formed by a collective of talented, hand-picked stylists and colorists who are ever so passionate about their craft. The lovely Kayla Barranger sat me down for a beautiful hair treatment and blowout. A Chicago native, Kayla is relatively new to the Las Vegas

community and has found working at Poppy to be a blessing. She said: “It is like a sisterhood here. I have made so many new friends, as a 35-year-old woman, that I will probably have for the rest of my life. Unlike a lot of salons out there, when you walk in here, people smile and are welcoming. There is no hint of rivalry or competition. Cena really did handpick all of us, based not only on our skill but our vibe and attitude too.” Everything within Poppy Collective and Wildflower Collective feels intentional and on brand, from the lush plants, and the neutral-toned salon furnishings, to their custom wildflowerprinted foils from Foil Me Foils. Unite hair products are a favorite in the salons, and as part of the #unitefamily, some of the team members have even had opportunities to take part in Paris Fashion Week styling teams. Extensions are a popular service in Poppy and Wildflower and Covet & Mane is their go-to brand, for their range of expertly sourced, carefully crafted, natural-looking hair extensions. For in-salon treatments and haircare, Kerastase is a favorite, and they will often run days like “Fusio Dose Days” where they offer

complimentary Kerastase Fusio Dose treatments for every customer booked in. Fortunately for us, the day we visited The Poppy Collective just so happened to be a Fusio Dose day, which meant that a bespoke treatment was added to my blowout, leaving my hair looking exceptionally healthy and moisturized, even in the desert heat of Las Vegas. Kayla walked us through The Poppy / Wildflower Collective steps to a perfect blowout. “The first thing I did when you sat down was check out the condition of your scalp and hair. From there, I created a bespoke Kerastase Treatment and then used the Kerastase Symboise Shampoo and Conditioner, which treats the scalp and leaves the hair feeling nice and moisturized. After towel drying the hair, I started to integrate our Unite products for styling and protecting the hair. I started by using the Unite Seven Seconds Detangler as a leave-in. I used about eight to 10 sprays, and let it sit for a few seconds before brushing through. It’s such a beautiful product because it doesn’t feel heavy in the hair, the fragrance is really subtle, and it not only helps you achieve a shinier finish but is

also a heat protectant. Then I went in with the Unite You Oil. I emulsified it between my fingers and then ran it through the mids and ends. It is going to help the blow dry seal down the cuticle, and give that nice smooth, shiny look.” After all the prep, Kayla got to work with the blow dry. She used a round boar bristle brush and her Dyson Dryer. “The Dyson dryer does make a difference. The finish of the hair always is smoother, and the tool itself is so light compared to other brands, so doing a blow dry with a lot of hair is a lot more doable and less work on my arms. I am so used to my Dyson now; I don’t think I would want to use another Dryer.” Finally, Kayla set the hair: “I used our Unite Le: Play Hairspray, which is beautiful because it is so flexible, you can run your fingers through your hair, and it’s never going to hurt of get crunchy, it just gives a beautiful but natural-looking hold.” After finishing up, and my hair looking gorgeous, we sat and had an iced Fig Burnt Sugar Latte at the Palm Sugar Coffee Bar, while checking out the salon retail section, which had everything from a huge range of hair products to cute mugs, gorgeous widebrimmed hats, t-shirts, candles, and more!

“IT IS LIKE A SISTERHOOD HERE. I HAVE MADE SO MANY NEW FRIENDS, AS A 35-YEAR-OLD WOMAN, THAT I WILL PROBABLY HAVE FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE. UNLIKE A LOT OF SALONS OUT THERE, WHEN YOU WALK IN HERE, PEOPLE SMILE AND ARE WELCOMING. TOO.” 95

“I THINK OF EVERYONE IN MY CHAIR AS A CELEBRITY, WHETHER THEY ARE OR NOT. IT’S JUST REALLY GREAT TO MAKE PEOPLE FEEL GOOD.”

HAIRDREAMS SALON BY MICHAEL BOYCHUCK //CAESARS PALACE,LAS VEGAS STRIP

Where hair dreams come true. Hairdreams Salon by Michael Boychuck is the latest star on the Las Vegas Strip. Located in Caesars Palace, it is the world’s first collaborative salon between hair extension brand, Hairdreams, and Las Vegas’ Mane Man, Michael Boychuck. After wandering around the iconic, mesmerizing, and hypnotizing lobby floor, we made our way up to Hairdreams salon. We were greeted at the door by the legend himself, Michael Boychuck. He had just been working with his client, Jocelyn Osmond, Miss Utah Teen USA, 2023, but took a break to speak with us. Michael told us a bit about the journey that led him to where he is today. He explained: “I was

working as a hairdresser in my small town in Jacksonville, Florida, but I had dreams of getting to Beverly Hills because that’s where my hero José Eber was based. So, I sent José a couple of letters and pictures of my work, and said, I would love to move out to California to work with you. His secretary replied and said, José is much too busy, but if you want to move out here, you could go through our training program. I thanked her, but I wasn’t going to give up. So, I decided as one last ditch effort, to mail José a bottle of Dom Perignon. “A week or so later, I was working late in the salon where I rented a chair. I had told my colleagues about the bottle and the letters, and they all thought I was crazy. But the next thing I knew, I was getting a call from José Eber on the salon phone. I thought it was someone playing a practical joke on me. But the next thing I knew, I was on a flight to Beverly Hills to meet my hero. He happened to be hosting an academy, and the colorist didn’t show up, so I said, I’ll do it. And that’s how I got my break.” From that point onward, Michael became one of the most influential colorists and stylists in the city. He has run salons in some of the biggest and most in-demand casinos in Las Vegas, from the Bellagio, the Venetian, and the Palms, rubbing shoulders with the likes of George Maloof, Robin Leach, along with many of Las Vegas’ top celebs. Michael said: “I think of everyone in my chair as a celebrity, whether they are or not. It’s just really great to make people feel good.” While Michael was at the Palms, the salon became the number one account for Hairdreams hair extensions. “We were buying more hair than any salon in the country, just in our little salon. So, I met the CEO of Hairdreams USA, Gerhard Strutz and we ended up becoming close friends, he became

Check out: hairdreamsvegas.com hairdreams.com @Hairdreamssalonlv

like a brother to me. So, when this space in Caesar’s Palace became available, I called Hairdreams with an idea, and that’s how this place was born, and it has been a dream come true.” He continued: “To have Hairdreams by my side to offer my clients only the best in extensions and non-surgical thickening systems is beyond fantastic.” The salon boasts a modern and elegant vibe with lighting and neutral tones specifically designed to best evaluate clients’ hair color, eye color, and skin tone for optimal results. In addition to the impressive makeup and nail bars, there’s a private Hairdreams Lounge where clients can get confidential consultations with hair loss specialists. The salon offers an array of non-surgical hair loss solutions with the patented Hairdreams MicroLines system, which is integrated into the client’s hair allowing for the most comfortable feel and natural look. With Hairdreams patented Laserbeamer Nano, clients can get a full head of individual fusion extensions in under one hour, or experience Hairdreams SECRETS invisible Tape-Ins which look like they are growing right from the scalp. To cater to his celebrity clients, Michael only offers the best of the best in his salon. While the extension angle is covered by Hairdreams, for hair care, Michael carries a full range of Schwarzkopf products and colors. He also offers Japanese-made Milbon products and in-salon treatments, after a recommendation from client, Martha Stewart. For tools, they use Gamma+ Blow Driers and styling tools. Michael said: “We want to offer our guests the best of the best every time, and because of that, we need to use the best of the best and have staff that is the best – which we do.”

“TO HAVE HAIRDREAMS BY MY SIDE TO OFFER MY CLIENTS ONLY THE BEST IN EXTENSIONS AND NON-SURGICAL THICKENING SYSTEMS IS BEYOND FANTASTIC.”

PRESTIGE NAIL BOUTIQUE//WEST SAHARA, LAS VEGAS Las Vegas is all about glits, glam and sparkle, from head to toe (and finger nails too!) We visited Prestige Nail Boutique, a beautiful and spacious nail boutique which aims to offer health-focused nail treatments to both the locals and the tourists of Las Vegas. The inspiration behind Prestige Nail Boutique came from a search far and wide for a local nail salon that was up to scratch in terms of quality, service, and commitment to client and employee health. When the search came up short, they decided to give it a shot themselves, and began to explore ideas of creating a clean, healthy salon where guests could come to to relax, while experiencing top-notch services, and rest easy in knowing that their service would be free of harmful chemicals or processes that could cause damage. Especially with the world’s experience of the last few years, sanitation and health is everything. Clients want to know that their beauty appointments will be safe, healthy, and won’t put them risk for anything. Owner, Nataliia said: “Here at Prestige Nail Boutique, our primary goal is to provide our guests with the best service possible in a clean

and healthy environment. Our ultimate mission is to provide an open space for guests to relax and enjoy our services with health and beauty at the top of the list.” So, what sets Prestige apart? • Prestige offers Big-5 Free polishes formulated without Formaldehyde, Formaldehyde Resin, Toluene, Camphor, Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP), BHA. • They only use one-time disposable nail files, buffers, cuticle sticks, manicure bowls, pedicure liners, pumice stones, toe separators and slippers. • Their metal implements are sanitized, disinfected and sterilized with an Autoclave, just like hospitals. • The salon offers a custom state-of-the-art ventilation system that exchanges stale air from the salon and replenishes it with fresh air from the outside. • The use of MMA free acrylics. • Offering SNS Dipping Powder, Apres Gel-X and Polygel nail enhancements which have a more natural feel to it.

But at Prestige, clients don’t need to sacrifice getting the latest and most creative looks for their health and wellbeing. Prestige offers the latest product trends like Cat Eye, Chrome, Foil, Loose Glitter, Fairy Pixie, Chameleon Flakes, Artiste Gel, 3D Art, Swarovski Pixie, Swarovski Stones, and so much more! Prestige’s list of services is extensive, and each service has been carefully thought out, considering all the senses. For example, here’s what’s included in the Spa Manicure: “Choose from our naturally soothing Mandarin Mango, Lemongrass Green Tea, Lavender Mint or Milk and Honey Treatment. Spa service includes Sea salt hand soak, nail trimming, shaping, cuticle grooming, Sugar Scrub, Clay Mask,

Massage Cream, ten-minute massage, three hot towel wraps and polish application.” They have also got really creative with their pedicure treatments. For example, check out their Volcano CBD Spa Pedicure: “Detox while experiencing a fun bubbling volcanic explosion in your feet. Service includes CBD Detox Volcanic foot soak, nail trimming, shaping, cuticle grooming, callus treatment, CBD Sugar Scrub, CBD Collagen Cream Mask, CBD Massage lotion, ten-minute massage, three hot towel wraps and polish application.” Walking out of Prestige, clients are sure to feel rejuvenated, relaxed, with beautiful nails, and the comfort of knowing their health and safety was the number one priority.

“HERE AT PRESTIGE NAIL BOUTIQUE, OUR PRIMARY GOAL IS TO PROVIDE OUR GUESTS WITH THE BEST SERVICE POSSIBLE IN A CLEAN AND HEALTHY ENVIRONMENT. OUR ULTIMATE MISSION IS TO PROVIDE AN OPEN SPACE FOR GUESTS TO RELAX AND ENJOY OUR SERVICES WITH HEALTH AND BEAUTY AT THE TOP OF THE LIST.” 99

ASK A

DESIGN EXPERT With 20 years of experience, and as the head of the leading design firm in the spa and salon industry, Michele has a unique perspective on beauty, because she is constantly surrounded by it. Michele told us: “I fell in love with the idea of designing salon interiors when I worked for a salon furniture company. This exposure to salon equipment, salon owners, and beauty tradeshows motivated me to hone my skills and pursue my passion. It was very exciting to think about how I could change the industry with high-level design and new salon furniture options. After years of learning and growing, I finally decided to follow my dreams and start my own design firm to bring luxury interior design and furniture to the professional salon market.” Michele continued: “As I continued to grow my interior design business in the salon industry, I started to see a gap in the industry for salon furniture that combined both form and function. There was plenty of functional furniture and even some stylish designs. However, finding furniture that had both great design and meaningful functionality was not easy to find. I worked with many salon owners and stylists to fine-tune these purposeful ideas with stylistic details to change the industry.” We wanted to ask Michele, with her wealth of knowledge and wisdom, a few common questions about salon design.

For a salon owner who wants to refurbish their salon, what first steps should they take? “The first thing that a salon owner should do before they start any remodel is to create a list of any challenges that they are currently having with the business. Nothing should be left unaddressed from spacing issues to not enough storage or seating, poor acoustics, or spotty lighting. All of these concerns should be addressed as part of a new design solution. Next, I recommend establishing a budget and pulling together design inspiration to share with the design and construction team. This will set the foundation for successful implementation.” When it comes to interior design, especially in salons, trends influence many of the choices we make. Should you be following trends, or going for timeless? “I think it is very important to consider trends when it comes to designing a salon interior. Trendy spaces show that you are in the know and a trendy space can build credibility. At the same time, you can make any trendy interior timeless. Some of my go-to tips for this are to mix metals (Use a combination of champagne gold, nickel, and bronze for example) and to incorporate classic elements to keep it timeless. Warm color tones and neutrals vs. lots of bright colors will always keep a space current.”

“TRENDY SPACES SHOW THAT YOU ARE IN THE KNOW AND A TRENDY SPACE CAN BUILD CREDIBILITY. AT THE SAME TIME, YOU CAN MAKE ANY TRENDY INTERIOR TIMELESS.” 100

WHILE MOST THINK OF BEAUTY AS HAIR, SKIN, NAILS, AND MAKEUP, MICHELE PELAFAS IS ALL ABOUT BRINGING BEAUTY TO THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY THROUGH DESIGN AND FURNITURE. SHE OFFERS HER BEST ADVICE FOR THOSE OPENING A SALON, OR CONSIDERING A RENOVATION. How do you make sure you’re making the right choice of furniture, that balances style with functionality? “The best advice for choosing the right furniture for your salon space is to do your homework. With the hundreds of options in the market, finding the right balance for form and function can be hard, but don’t give up. I recommend visiting salon furniture showrooms to test drive your furniture before you buy. I know that the best stylists are very particular about their furniture when it comes to function. The only way to know if it is a good fit is to sit in lots of styling chairs, and shampoo units and to custom design your styling station to fit your needs.”

HUTTON STYLING CHAIR Hutton Hydraulic Styling Chair features a chic design, superior comfort, and durability. Its allupholstery design offers exceptional comfort and long-lasting sturdiness.

$699.00 // collins.co

MICHELE’S 5 TIPS FOR CREATING A BEAUTIFUL SALON

Make design a top priority when you are planning your salon interior. Great design will speak to your credibility and show your consumer that you are in the know. It also shows that you care about your business which speaks to your quality.

For a salon environment, lighting is everything. Warm color temperature bulbs are flattering and create a timeless vibe. I also recommend color corrective lighting so that the overall space accurately “renders” true color which is key to seeing how the hair is looking.

Know that every flooring option has an advantage and disadvantages. The character of an ideal salon floor is one that is stain resistant, comfortable to stand on, has good acoustics, and also looks beautiful in the space.

MINERVA AMELIA ELECTRIC MASSAGE TABLE WITH TILTING BACK IN BEIGE Designed with the high-quality comfort, function, and style spa professionals can depend on. Equipped with electronic tilting back and height adjustment at the push of a button, the Amelia's German manufactured motor provides a powerful lift system while maintaining smooth and quiet operation.

Warm Neutral paint colors will flatter skin tones, so be careful about painting walls bright colors or blue hues. One of my other favorite go-to ideas is to consider a commercial-grade wall covering and install this on a few strategic walls to yield a big return on a small investment.

$1,249.00 // minervabeauty.com

MICHELE PELAFAS WELL DRESSED PEDICURE BENCH

Focus on feature walls because site lines are important. From a dimensional wall panel with indirect lighting to a statement art piece or moss wall, there are many different ways to enhance a space and direct the attention to a pleasant design.

This bench is comfortable and ergonomic. The high style design is matched with revolutionary hydrotherapy technology to give you the assurance of clean water with every treatment.

Website: www.MichelePelafas.com Instagram: @michelepelafas

$3,911.00// michelepelafas.com

“THE BEST ADVICE FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT FURNITURE FOR YOUR SALON SPACE IS TO DO YOUR HOMEWORK. WITH THE HUNDREDS OF OPTIONS IN THE MARKET, FINDING THE RIGHT BALANCE FOR FORM AND FUNCTION CAN BE HARD, BUT DON’T GIVE UP.”

TAKARA BELMONT HARP STYLING CHAIR The spacious sofa seating and modern design provide optimal support for clients and easy access for stylists, topped off with a modern flair. Featuring premium piping accents, wide armrests, and plush cushions, these chairs help your salon make a statement while maintaining a classic elegance. Beauty.

takarabelmont.com

KAEMARK AMERICAN MADE SALON STYLING CHAIR Handcrafted in Central Texas, this modern salon styling chair not only looks like something straight out of a magazine, but it was also hand-built to last years to come. The Pablo American-Made Styling Chair includes a one-year warranty on the chair top and a seven-year warranty on the base.

kaemark.com

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A LESSON IN DESIGN WE OFTEN TALK ABOUT DESIGN IN TERMS OF OUR SALONS AND BEAUTY STUDIOS, BUT WHAT ABOUT THE PLACES WHERE THE FOUNDATIONS OF HAIRDRESSING ARE LEARNED? WE SPOKE TO DONNA VANN, DEPARTMENT HEAD OF COSMETOLOGY, CATAWBA VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO TALK ABOUT THEIR NEW COSMETOLOGY DEPARTMENT, AND WHY COLLINS WAS THEIR #1. CHOICE FOR THEIR FUN, BRIGHTLY COLORED FURNITURE. Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) is an accredited comprehensive NC Community College serving Catawba and Alexander counties in Hickory, North Carolina. The Cosmetology department offers various certificates and diplomas under the umbrella of Cosmetology which include Esthetics, Nail Technology and teacher training certification in addition to the Cosmetology diploma. CVCC’s Cosmetology building was finished at the beginning of 2021, and students were able to see the space for the first time after in-person learning returned post-Covid. In the new space, they are able to double class sizes, and have up to 44 cosmetology and 10 nail students in the “salon” at a time. So, what is different between designing a salon and a school? Donna said: “When you are designing a school, you must think about space and functionality a little more than with a salon. Our

state board requires different things for a school as well. There are specific measurements and number requirements for schools that may be different than salons. You need to also think about furniture fitting all the students. “All of our equipment is also chosen with the idea that it will be here a long time. Salons are redecorated generally more often than school. We wanted to choose items that would "age" well in the space and with change in times, design and fads.” Donna explained: “Our design was based on having our student salon and school feel modern, comfortable and welcoming. We wanted fun, uplifting touches with a little bit of elegance, as evidenced in the lobby area. We wanted the school to also feel like a real professional salon. The stations for students have enough storage to hold their supplies while having a sleek look with great functionality. Students can easily work beside each

“OUR DESIGN WAS BASED ON HAVING OUR STUDENT SALON AND SCHOOL FEEL MODERN, COMFORTABLE AND WELCOMING. WE WANTED FUN, UPLIFTING TOUCHES WITH A LITTLE BIT OF ELEGANCE.” 102 102

other and have plenty of room to do anything they need. Clients love the bright colors and comfort of the chairs. For their brightly colored and comfortable salon chairs, Collins Furniture was the go-to. Donna explained: “We chose Collins because we had seen them multiple times at hair shows and they made it easy to work with them ordering for our school. They were able to customize pieces of furniture to meet our needs. Our shampoo bowls and chairs are backwash stations enabling our students to work in a more ergonomically manner while ensuring the clients are comfortable. The shampoo chairs are great for both tall and short clients and have a mobile footrest for clients to be more comfortable. “The manicure tables were a welcome upgrade for our nail tech students as the ventilation is built in. They have plenty of workspace and storage making the manicure services a little more streamlined. The lamps are already in the station and power outlets are built in. We wanted our students to have modern technology and be more efficient in their daily work. This is why we chose the styling stations, permanent nail stations as well as mobile nail stations.” And the students’ review? “The students LOVE our new salon. They enjoy that we have much more space than in the old building. The breakroom, being in its own area and more private than what we had before, is also great. We also have natural light available here that we did not before. This is a school they are proud to attend and love to show their families and friends how new and modern the school is.”

CRAFTING SALON ELEGANCE

At Collins, we’re not just creating salon furnishings; we’re crafting your vision, crafting comfort and crafting style. Each piece is meticulously made in the USA, reflecting our commitment to quality and timelessness. With endless cutomization options, your unique salon vision comes to life.

COLLINS.CO

#COLLINSCRAFTED 103

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