Issuu

REGULARS

7First Word

8Headlines

10Meet the Winner

Professional Textured Hair Stylist of the Year 2025: Dom Capel

12Meet the Winner

Professional Men’s Hair Stylist of the Year 2025: Lewis Gumbrell

16The Colour Edit

18The Style Edit

29Talking Heads

A Conversation Around Curly Hair

34Hairdressing Unbound

Davide Spinelli

78My Hair Hero

Catherine Thomas Meets

Ceri Cushen

80The Design Edit

Wella Professionals 21

The Station Hair and Beauty

82What’s..?

Pete Burkill

SPECIAL

21Love Is in the Hair

This Season’s Bridal Trends

76Sister Act

Sisters in Hairdressing

BUSINESS

38Culture Club

Katya Milavic Davies

40The Next Cut

Andrew Barton

42Beyond the Chair

Lorenzo Colangelo

45Care in Hair

Tim Scott-Wright

COLLECTIONS

52Revlon Professional Portfolio

Collective

56Andrew Smith

FREELANCE FORUM

69A Freelance State of Mind

Brooke Evans

70Going Solo

Georgia Mountain

PRODUCTS

72The Launchpad

The Latest Products

74Colour Close-Up

CREATIVITY, CARE & CONNECTION

May always seems to be a turning point in the salon calendar. The days grow longer, wedding season hots up and clients are ready for their summer transformations. This month’s issue celebrates not only the artistry of hairdressing, but the compassion and expertise that truly define our industry.

Our bridal special takes centre stage on page 21, packed with inspiration, practical advice and techniques to help you navigate one of the most important services you can offer. From soft, romantic textures to modern structured updos, bridal work is where creativity meets precision and where trust between you and your client matters most.

The 18-24 May 2026 is Dementia Action Week, and in this issue we also take a moment to reflect on the deeper human side of what you do as hairdressers. Tim Scott-Wright’s feature on working with clients living with dementia is a moving and important read. Hairdressers often become trusted figures in their clients’ lives, and the salon chair can be a place of comfort, familiarity and dignity. Tim’s touching piece on page 45 explores how small adjustments in approach, communication and environment can make an enormous difference to those experiencing cognitive decline and to the families who support them.

Curls are also in the spotlight this month with our Talking Heads curly hair deep dive on page 29. As more clients embrace their natural pattern, the demand for truly knowledgeable curl specialists continues to grow, so we explore the latest techniques and product choices that help curls and your salon business thrive.

What unites all these features is the heart of hairdressing itself and what you offer –creativity, care and connection. Whether you’re creating the perfect bridal moment, helping a client feel safe and understood or mastering the science of curls, every service is an opportunity for you to make someone feel their very best.

@PROHAIRMAG Q @PROHAIRMAGWWW.PROFESSIONALHAIRDRESSER.CO.UK

Editorial Director

Nicola Shannon nshannon@hamerville.co.uk

Deputy Editor/Digital Editor

Tabitha Shannon tshannon@hamerville.co.uk

Digital Manager

Rebecca Mcgeoch rmcgeoch@hamerville.co.uk

Designer

Donna Booth

Group Production Manager

Carol Padgett

Production Assistant

Claire Swendell

Commercial Manager

Laura Jowsey

ljowsey@hamerville.co.uk

Professional Hairdresser, Hamerville Media Group Ltd, Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts, WD24 4YF.

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©2026 Professional Hairdresser accepts no responsibility for damage or loss, however caused, to any material submitted for publication. While every effort is made to ensure facts are correct at time of going to press, no responsibility can be accepted for incorrect product descriptions or facts. No part of this magazine may be reproduced, in any form, without prior written permission from the publishers.

HAIR: INDOLA

HEADLINES

Revlon Professional Celebrates Its First Colour Specialist Graduates

Revlon Professional recently celebrated the graduation of 13 colourists from its prestigious Colour Specialist Programme, marking a major milestone in advanced colour education in the UK and Ireland. Held at the Revlon Professional HQ in London, the graduation ceremony brought together educators, graduates and industry guests for an afternoon of recognition, reflection and celebration. The event marked the culmination of months of intensive training, as the inaugural group of colourists successfully completed the brand’s most advanced and comprehensive colour education course to date.

RIP Robert Powls

Robert Powls (1947–2026), Founder of Cloud Nine and the driving force behind both Cloud Nine and ghd, leaves behind a legacy that helped deﬁne modern hairstyling. Robert was relentless in his pursuit of electrical styling –driven not just to improve products, but to create something iconic. He combined professional expertise with commercial understanding, always maintaining a clear focus on the people he was creating for. Robert’s legacy lives on through the brands he built, the category he created and the standards he set for the industry.

INSPIRE! Returns for 2026

The Freelance Hairdressers’ Association (FHA) is proud to announce the return of its flagship event, INSPIRE!, a dynamic, one-day experience dedicated to freelance and self-employed hairdressers looking to elevate their skills, grow their business and connect with the wider industry. Taking place on Sunday 28th June 2026 at Hellidon Lakes Hotel & Resort in Daventry, INSPIRE! offers the opportunity to learn from leading industry names, discover new brands and be part of a supportive, like-minded network.

Government Invest in Youth Employment and Apprenticeships

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) welcomes the Government’s announcement of a £900 million expansion of the Youth Guarantee. Along with it, comes a wide range of reforms to the apprenticeship system and changes that should prove positive for the UK hair, beauty, barbering and aesthetics sectors. The decision represents the most significant reshaping of youth employment and skills policy in recent years.

Mood Reveals New 2026 Lifestyle Team

Following an exciting day of blind auditions at Blank Space Creative in Nottingham, Mood has recently announced its brand-new 2026 Lifestyle Team. The team will join the brand’s Creative Director, Tracey Ann Smith, on a year of creative and educational initiatives designed to showcase and develop the top talent in the industry. The new Mood Lifestyle Team members are: Billy Dodds, Connie Graham, Connor McIntyre, Kate Ledbrook, Nicole Cain and Danielle Laverty.

Rainbow Room International Uddingston Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Rainbow Room International

Uddingston is celebrating 20 years of hairdressing excellence, creative innovation and bespoke client experiences. Since opening in 2006, the salon has grown under the leadership of sisters Suzie McGill, Artistic Director, and Sam McFarlane, Salon Director, into a hub of talent, mentoring and award-winning service.

Novo Cabelo Unveils Winner of Inaugural Awards

Novo Cabelo has announced Steven Goldsworthy as the winner of its first ever Stylist of the Year Award, unveiled during a live online ceremony hosted by the brand’s Founder, Rob Wood. The award celebrates technical excellence in hair systems and the ongoing client care that sits at the heart of Novo Cabelo. Steven, a trained trichologist, was recognised for his ethical approach to hair loss solutions and his commitment to supporting clients through every stage of their journey.

JOICO Color Talent Awards Winner Announced

JOICO EMEA is delighted to announce Monika Woźniak from Hair Colorist Studio in Poland as the overall winner of the JOICO Color Talent Awards. The winning look infused a vibrant colour palette with long, flowing waves to create hair that embodied confidence, personality and energy. Alysha O’Keefe from Marc Antoni in the United Kingdom was announced as the official runner-up. Inspired by the age of AI, Alysha showcased a bold, futuristic look with glowing purple, blue and green tones.

ALYSHA O’KEEFE

MONIKA WOŹNIAK

MEET THE WINNER

DOM CAPEL

PROFESSIONAL TEXTURED HAIR STYLIST OF THE YEAR 2025

MEET THE WINNER AWARDS

PROFESSIONAL MEN’S HAIR STYLIST OF THE YEAR 2025

AWARDS 2026

DON’T JUST DO GREAT HAIR.

Be recognised for it!

LIVE AWARDS FINAL: MONDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER

TICKETS ON SALE: MONDAY 15 TH JUNE

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

4 Ways to Achieve Perfect Hair Photos in Any Lighting

LLOYD COURT, CREATIVE DIRECTOR AND CO-OWNER OF SEANHANNA WIMBLEDON.

Whether you’re creating a beautiful balayage or getting creative with colour, the most important element to getting it right, arguably, is the lighting. Perfect lighting will not only help you analyse the true colour effectively, it will also allow the client to see exactly what they are getting too.

Here are my four top tips for getting your colour right in every kind of light:

Try to find a space with as much natural light as possible. This will give the truest reflection of the colour you are creating, without making it look cooler or warmer than it actually is.

Educate your clients on the effects of different types of light. If you’re looking at hair colour in the natural light it’s going to appear a lot warmer than if you’re looking at it in a bathroom’s blue light, for example. This will stop clients wondering why their new shade looks cooler when they look in a mirror at home.

Soft strip lighting is a good alternative if your salon or workspace doesn’t offer a natural

light source. This will create an even illumination across the hair that is neither too warm nor too cool.

Use a ring light to take accurate pictures of your work. If it looks too fake, it’s going to backfire when another client asks for the same colour and their hair looks completely different to the inspiration picture.

The COLOUR Edit

Buy, Blend and Beyond

Remi Cachet is stepping into the colour consultation space with its new ‘Buy and Blend’ strategy that encourages extensionists to reframe their services in the context of colour.

Colour services have long been a transformative medium in hairdressing, and Remi Cachet is ready to play its part. Extensions already fulfil the hair goals of clients through length, volume and texture, which leaves colour – without chemical damage or commitment – as the natural next step on the customer journey.

Victoria Lynch, Remi Cachet Founder, says, “Offering salon clients a dedicated colour consultation for extensions is crucial. Our ‘buy and blend’ service aims to inspire extensionists to experiment with new colour combinations, with a choice of our 60+ shades to meet seasonal trends and bespoke client needs.

“Espresso and chocolate-inspired shades are a must-have for brunettes this spring/summer. These dark, rich shades are perfect for clients wanting to uplift their colour for the new season and give it extra shine. With these shades, it’s important that the hair is a single, all-over colour. This uniform hue can be achieved by an all-over tint, which I would then pair with a glossing service and, of course, the right aftercare. This will truly allow the block colour to stand out and do the talking.”

TRACEY ANN SMITH, ARTISTIC DIRECTOR AT COLORAQUA

LLOYD COURT

TRACEY ANN SMITH

Seasonal Trend Watch: The Wolf Cut

The wolf cut is set to be one of the most requested styles in salons this summer, and Rainbow Room International Creative Director, Diana Carson, explains why… Seen on celebrities such as Miley Cyrus, Cara Delevingne, Jenna Ortega and Suki Waterhouse, it’s a cut that looks edgy and statement making. However, one of the reasons it’s gained such popularity is how wearable it actually is. Part shag, part mullet, the wolf cut combines choppy layers with movement and volume, making it adaptable to a wide range of hair types and client lifestyles.

Short BixieWolf

The short bixie wolf is a bolder take on the trend. With shorter layers at the nape that gradually blend into longer, choppier pieces, it creates a strong, confident shape that works particularly well on fine or straight hair.

Three

Is

The mid-length version of the wolf is arguably the most versatile as it will suit a wide range of clients. The layers are choppy but controlled, with slightly shorter crown sections to create subtle lift, and lengths that typically fall around the collarbone.

MidLength Wolf

Thethe Magic Number

Olaplex introduces its latest evolution with No.3PLUS Complete Repair Treatment, an innovative preshampoo treatment designed to deliver stronger, softer and healthier-looking hair in just three minutes.

Powered by Olaplex’s patented Bond Building Technology and its new Damage Defense Cationic Complex, No.3PLUS brings professional-grade repair into a faster, simpler and more modern ritual.

In three minutes, No.3PLUS works from cortex to cuticle to rebuild all three bonds – disulfide bonds, salt bonds and hydrogen bonds – in the hair’s structure. The treatment has been specially crafted to deliver 360° repair for past and present damage, while strengthening the hair against future stress too.

For clients with thick or heavy hair, the long wolf cut offers a softer, more textured option. Longer layers remove weight while keeping the cut full and dynamic, and pairing the style with shaggy bangs adds dimension.

LongWolf

LOVE IS IN THE HAIR

This season’s hottest bridal hair trends and business tips

3 Secret Styling Tips and Tricks

BRITTANY LAMB, REMI CACHET SUPER STYLIST

BRITTANY LAMB

Hollywood waves remain a timeless bridal hairstyle inspired by classic red carpet beauty. The smooth, sculpted waves have an instantly elegant and high-end feel that never goes out of fashion. Often associated with old Hollywood movie stars, the look allows brides to channel that same cinematic glamour on their wedding day

Caitlin O’Riordan, Stylist at Charlotte Paints Hair

How to Boss Bridal Business

Having a dedicated bridal floor is a game changer for city centre salons. At Rainbow Room International, Royal Exchange Square, we’ve created a space designed to make wedding mornings seamless and stress free. Located in Glasgow’s city centre, our private bridal floor accommodates up to 14 guests, offering a full-service experience for hair, make-up and pre-wedding treatments.

City centre weddings often mean bridal parties travel from multiple locations, so having one central space allows everyone to come together, relax and enjoy the excitement of the

day. A beautifully styled, serene environment ensures the morning flows smoothly, while our expert team works closely with each client to deliver bespoke hair and make-up, tailored to their vision.

My advice to salons considering a bridal offering: maximise your space, plan for comfort and privacy and ensure your team can deliver a personal, high-touch service. The morning of the wedding sets the tone for the entire day; creating a calm, enjoyable experience for your clients will ensure that they leave with memories as perfect as their look.

Prioritise the ‘Foundation’ Over the Finish: The secret to a 12-hour bridal look is the internal structure. I always suggest using a crimping technique at the roots or a dry texture spray to create ‘grip’ before styling. This ensures that even heavier extension styles won’t slide, and it gives pins a solid anchor to prevent the look from dropping during the reception.

Master the ‘Mirror Test’ for 360° Perfection: It’s important to remember that brides are photographed from every possible angle. I always use a handheld mirror to check the silhouette from a distance, ensuring extension bonds or tracks are completely camouflaged – even when the bride moves her head or the wind catches her hair.

Conduct a ‘Veil and Accessory’ Rehearsal: A heavy cathedral veil can pull on a style and create tension, so I always have the bride bring her actual veil to the trial. Practise the ‘handover’ by showing the Maid of Honour exactly how to remove the veil later in the day, in a way that doesn’t disturb either the extensions or the pinned style.

DAVID NICOLSON, SALON DIRECTOR AT RAINBOW ROOM INTERNATIONAL, ROYAL EXCHANGE SQUARE

Are Brides High-Value Clients?

DINA DEMETRIOU, HEAD OF EDUCATION FOR BEAUTY WORKS

Bridal season remains one of the most lucrative opportunities in the salon calendar, yet many stylists still underutilise its full commercial potential. Beyond the wedding day itself, bridal clients represent a high-value, multi-appointment journey, from consultations and trials to colour services, extensions and post-wedding maintenance.

Unlike standard salon appointments, bridal bookings naturally lend themselves to premium pricing. Brides are typically more open to investing in their look, particularly when positioned as part of a tailored and professional experience. Plus, by introducing additional services like extensions early in the consultation process, stylists can significantly increase both ticket value and client satisfaction.

A single bridal client can generate revenue across multiple touchpoints:

• Consultation and hair planning.

• Colour refinement or correction.

• Trial styling sessions.

• Extension fitting and maintenance.

• Wedding day styling.

• Bridesmaid and bridal party services.

I always tell my bridal clients to wash their hair the night before the wedding, rather than on the day – this will give the hair more grip for updos.

Martin

Quenault, Salon Director at KH Hair Ashby

Bridal Trend Alert: Wuthering Heights

DANIEL

RICE, OWNER OF DANIELS SALON

For many clients, modern bridal hair is less about rigid, structured styles and more about soft, elevated, effortless looks. Think textured updos, undone waves and romantic braids. These styles require density, length and movement, which many clients simply don’t have naturally. Extensions allow bridal stylists to build volume for fuller, more photogenic stylesand improve hold to help styles last throughout long wedding days. Crucially, extensions also create consistency. Stylists can design a look knowing the hair will behave predictably, regardless of the client’s natural texture or thickness.

The romantic, windswept aesthetic of Wuthering Heights hair has become one of the most influential beauty moods of the moment, and it translates beautifully into bridal styling. As this look continues into spring and summer, many brides are embracing its softness and natural elegance for their wedding day.

The appeal of Wuthering Heights hair lies in its effortless romance. Bridal hair has moved away from very rigid updos for a while now, with a lot of brides instead wanting something that feels authentic, modern and full of movement. Wuthering Heights hair captures that perfectly!

Ultimately, bridal hair should feel timeless rather than trend driven. The beauty of the Wuthering Heights look is that it feels emotional, effortless and quietly luxurious; the kind of hair that still looks beautiful in photographs decades later.

SHEREE GOUGH

Bridal Trend Alert: Couture Romance

SHEREE GOUGH, AWARD-WINNING BRIDAL HAIR ARTIST

‘Couture Romance’ is all about bringing a modern, romantic edge to the timeless bridal aesthetic.

This new trend centres around Hollywood glam bridal make-up, with blush as the defining feature. The hair should also be styled with this upscaled, heavy-glam finish, enhanced by an on-trend, faux bouncy blow-dry to add that effortless body and movement.

For this particular ‘Couture Romance’ look, the bride’s coutureinspired gown was from Barcelona, anchoring the editorial and blending European sophistication with seasonal drama.

With the overall results captured in soft, natural light, this trend certainly embodies glamorous luxury and modern bridal elegance

There’s definitely a shift away from overly structured styles. We’re seeing more use of techniques like double setting, followed by brushing everything out to create that soft, glossy finish through the sides. Then, once the veil comes off, it’s about gently smoothing the style over. Still keeping it polished, but less rigid than we saw last year.

PAMELA DOCHERTY, GREAT LENGTHS DIGITAL ADVOCATE AND OWNER OF PEEKY & TY

INANCH AT INANCH LONDON

SHEREE GOUGH

My Bridal Styling Non-Negotiables

CHRISTOPHER LAIRD, REMI CACHET AMBASSADOR

Master the consultation, not just the style: A successful bridal look is decided long before the wedding morning. The consultation sets everything –from dress shape and neckline to veil placement, venue and how the bride wants to feel. It’s also about being prepared for change. Brides can (and often do!) evolve their ideas as the day approaches, so building flexibility into the plan is key.

Build longevity into the style from the start: Bridal hair has to perform all day, not just look good when it’s finished. Longevity comes from smart sectioning, controlled tension and correct product layering; not from blasting hairspray at the end. Always build structure first and soften second. When the foundation is right, the style will hold without looking overworked.

Don’t be afraid to enhance the hair: A lot of modern bridal styles rely on added hair, even if it’s not obvious. Extensions aren’t about dramatic length; they’re about creating balance, fullness and a luxury finish that holds its shape in real life and in photos.

For hairdressers, bridal styling is more than just technical skill; it’s something that requires real listening. Every bride arrives with a vision, and the role of the stylist is to listen, refine it and bring it to life. Our job on their wedding day is to dissolve any anxiety, not create it

Kayleigh Twigg, Senior Top Stylist and Colour Technician at

Brooks & Brooks

TALKING HEADS:

Continuing our conversation for 2026, we ask experts up and down the country their thoughts on specific hair

types, textures and treatments. This month, we have everything you need to know about curly hair…

AMELIA EVANS, ARTISTIC

DIRECTOR AT HARE & BONE

“Managing curly hair is something you learn over time. A lot of people think curly hair is scary or hard to deal with, but it becomes much easier once you understand it

As a general rule, curly hair is naturally drier than other hair types, so it needs more moisture and conditioning. When you’re applying products, you need to use more than you would on straight hair, and you need to make sure it’s spread really evenly.

Water is actually your best friend when styling curly hair. The more moisture you have in the hair, the less frizz you’ll get I know that sounds a bit strange because people always say you want to keep moisture out to avoid frizz (which is partly true), but you also need to lock moisture into the hair.

Conditioning sprays are great for second-day hair if the curls need refreshing.

Mild-hold curl creams work really well too, but if the hair needs slightly more bounce or control, you can opt for products with a stronger hold.”

Curly

COS SAKKAS, GLOBAL CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT TONI&GUY

“Before cutting curly hair, always apply a cutting lotion. This will help the cutting tool glide through the hair while keeping it nourished. Alternatively, apply a leave-in conditioner or curl creamwhich can soak into the cuticle and add moisture while cutting. When working on the perimeter, create a nice, neat outline. On the interior mid-lengths and ends, use techniques such as twist-cutting or slice-cutting to keep it irregular, adding an imperfection to the texture. When slice-cutting on curly hair, open and close the scissors slightly to stop any dragging, and always slice-cut on wet hair that has product applied.

Lastly, remember this: different techniques will result in different types of curls, and different types of curls will require different techniques.”

Hair

CHRIS GRIMLEY OWNER OF

TEXTURE

CURL ACADEMY

“Curly and textured hair behave differently from straight hair, mainly because each curl has its own pattern, porosity and elasticity. Understanding this is key to achieving a successful curly cut and colour that enhances natural shape and movement, without compromising hair health. Colour can lift and define curls, creating depth, dimension and vibrancy. When applied thoughtfully, colour can help curls appear more defined and alive, rather than weighed down or dull. When it comes to choosing the right colour, you must consider curl texture, hair health and client lifestyle. Subtle highlights or balayage can enhance dimension without flattening the curl, but consultation is key to ensuring the colour definitely complements the tone and curl pattern.”

TRACEY ANN SMITH

CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT MOOD

“In general, curly hair tends to be a lot drier than straight hair, so it’s important that clients have a nourishing homecare routine that will allow their curls to look their very best between salon appointments.

I also advise my curly-haired clients to try and wear protective hair styles wherever possible to keep their curls damage free – things like braids and twists are great for keeping the hair protected from friction and breakage. Clients can also experiment by wearing these styles at night, pairing them with a leave-in conditioner, hair treatment or oil to provide their curls with extra moisture overnight.”

JUDE TAYLOR

JACQUI MCINTOSH

EUROPEAN EDUCATION DIRECTOR AT AVLON

“In terms of curly hair trends, one of the most noticeable shifts in recent years is the move away from forcing curls into uniform shapes, and instead embracing the individuality of each curl pattern. Clients are becoming more educated about their natural texture, leading them to seek styles that enhance their curl formation rather than suppress it.

At the same time, versatility still remains a major trend. Many women with curly and coily hair are confidently moving between natural styles, heat-styled looks, colour services and chemical treatments, demonstrating that this hair type does not have to exist within a single styling narrative.

In terms of haircut trends, we are seeing a renewed interest in shape and structure. Shorter, confident styles such as pixie cuts are becoming increasingly popular, while those wearing their curls naturally are opting for fuller, more defined silhouettes that enhance volume and movement.”

CURL EXPERT FOR OSMO

“The biggest mistake I see is cutting curls like straight hair and hoping they’ll behave. I always ask clients to arrive with their hair diffused exactly how they’d usually wear it – this shows me the true curl pattern, density variations and any looser or tighter areas.

Curly hair rarely behaves uniformly across the head, so the cut must respect that individuality. I cut with the curl pattern, not against it. That means working in its natural fall and creating internal support, so the shape builds volume rather than collapsing. Over-thinning is one of the biggest errors with curls –removing too much internal weight can cause frizz and loss of definition. A successful curly cut should look balanced in its dry state first. If it doesn’t work dry, it won’t work styled. Ultimately, healthy curls are about moisture control, gentle handling and understanding that texture is a specialist service. When treated with precision, curls are one of the most versatile and commercially powerful hair types in the salon ”

KIERAN TUDOR STYLIST AND CO-FOUNDER OF CENTRED

“Working with curly hair begins long before the scissors come out. The first rule is to respect the natural pattern – always cut curls dry or in their natural fall wherever possible, as this will allow you to see how each coil behaves. Curly hair shrinks, moves and expands, so precision is about shape rather than blunt lines. I prefer working in sections and carving weight out where needed instead of thinning aggressively, which can create frizz.

Hydration is everything. I recommend cleansing with CENTRED Daily Calma Shampoo and Conditioner to gently nourish without stripping, keeping the cuticle calm and defined.”

MARTIN QUENAULT SALON DIRECTOR AT KH HAIR ASHBY

“When cutting curly hair while it’s wet, it’s crucial to allow room for the hair to spring up shorter. Then, always finish off the cut once the hair has been dried, as this will allow you to see how the curls sit naturally and ensure the shape is balanced.”

PETER MELLON

SALON OWNER OF MEDUSA

STOCKBRIDGE AND ELM ROW

“I thrive off curly hair – why would you not want to work on a head of hair with so much personality!?

Yes, curly hair is fun, but it can also be hard work. This hair type can be incredibly thirsty and dry, so conditioning is key! Curly hair also loves moisture, so I always recommend a sulphate-free shampoo, rich conditioner and curl-enhancing products that will give my clients’ hair shine without the crunch.”

CARLA KIRKPATRICK

CURL EDUCATOR AND STYLIST

“When working with curly-haired clients, the language we use during the consultation is crucial. Many curly clients have grown up seeing their hair as a negative – too frizzy, too wild and something that needs to be tamed. The words we use should empower them to see their hair differently, not reinforce a trauma that many people carry around their identity. By changing our language, we build trust, and that is what leads to client retention.

Don’t rely on curl chart classifications; few people fit into one curl type When you’re cutting and colouring, look closely at how each curl sits, moves and behaves, and use you colour to enhance the curl pattern.”

CAROLYN CHAPMAN

SENIOR COLOUR DIRECTOR AT STIL SALON

“Colouring curly hair requires being organic and visual with your sectioning and applications. You need to assess and change your technique depending on how the curls sit, always looking at the various different curl patterns throughout the hair.

‘Curl Painting’ is a freehand colouring technique I use to create a personalised result from colouring individual curls It creates a soft blend from root to tip, and it also works as an open-air technique to protect the hair’s condition.

It’s important to always discuss your clients’ curl colour priorities – whether that’s about maximising white hair coverage, preserving the definition of curls or creating a loud, dramatic result.

I have found that curly-haired clients usually have a very clear idea of how their specific curls behave or react to colour and styling products, so I recommend paying close attention to their previous experiences and noting any details on what works best for them.”

ANNELIESE HESSE

DIRECTOR AT HUMANKIND HAIR

“A good training plan for curly hair should take a scientific approach, breaking down the reasons behind each piece of advice. For example, ‘gels will give longer-lasting results than creams because they create a cast around curl clumps’ or ‘drying hair 100% before scrunching out the crunch helps to minimise frizz because it allows the cast to set fully’.”

THE CURLY HAIR

Product Round-Up

MOOD HAIRCARE

Dream Curls from Mood Haircare offers a dedicated treatment programme for curly clients. Formulated with fermented rice water, amino acids, vitamins and antioxidants, the products have been designed to provide intense hydration, elasticity and long-lasting curl definition. The lightweight ingredients allow for optimal curl retention, without causing frizz.

OSMO

The Curl Revival Range from OSMO is a complete curl-enhancing system created to nourish, shape and protect natural waves, coils and curls of every kind. Designed to work with the hair’s natural texture, these moisture-rich formulas help to enhance definition, boost shine and provide long-lasting hold without crunch or heaviness.

OSIS, SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL

Curl Soufflé from OSiS is a rich curl and coil shaping mousse, designed to deliver soft yet defined results while maintaining natural movement. The creamy formula enhances the hair’s natural curl pattern, while adding slip for a nourished, moisturised feel. It also helps to protect against humidity, tame frizz and provide heat protection up to 230°C.

EVO

MANTA

Designed with wider-spaced, longer and stronger bristles alongside a patented flexible base, the Manta Curls Soft Teal brush gently detangles wet or dry curls without causing breakage or disrupting the natural pattern. The brush also works to gently exfoliate and massage the scalp, helping to create the ideal foundation for healthy curl growth.

Crafted to support the hair’s natural curl pattern, minimise frizz and prepare curls for easier styling, the baby got bounce curl treatment from evo repairs, treats and strengthens damaged and colour-treated curls. This rinse-out treatment uses Argan Oil and Shea Butter to deeply moisturise the hair and Hydrolysed Quinoa to protect and retain colour.

CLOUD NINE

Cloud Ninehas launched the newest addition to its Airshot Pro hairdryer attachments – the Airshot Pro Volumisers. Crafted for a quicker, bouncier blow-dry, the new hairdryer attachments wrap the hair with a powerful airflow to create long-lasting, voluminous curls. The Ionic technology and personalised temperature control allows stylists to create big, blown-out curls without unnecessary damage.

The go-to place for independent stylists…

ONE-STOP SHOP

COLOUR CALLING

The Coolest Blonde Results With ultimate lift and neutralisation, IGORA ROYAL

Highlifts is formulated for cool blondes and those who want to be.

• Up to 5 levels of lift.

• Innovative TrueLift Complex for more powerful lift and stronger neutralisation.

• Integrated Schwarzkopf Bonding to help protect the hair bonds for minimised breakage.* *vs. previous formula

TOP OF MY SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL SHOPPING LIST IS...

“IGORA ROYAL Fashion Lights has genuinely been a game changer for me in the salon, especially for the amount of nobleach balayage I create. Shades like L-00 and L-44 have incredible lifting power and perform unlike any other high lift I’ve used, allowing me to achieve beautiful, lifted results while maintaining the integrity of the hair.”

Vishali Visavadia, The Hair Den, @vsvstylist

Styling Mission

NEW OSiS CURL RETOUCH

CURL ENHANCING SPRAY

Benefits:

• Memory Bounce Booster.

• Creates curl definition and enhances shine.

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• Revitalises curls in-between washes.

• Tames frizz and helps maintain the hair’s moisture balance.

• Provides heat protection up to 230 °C/450 °F.

• Light hold.

“To create this look, I applied highlights using medium-weave diagonal back sections through the back two quadrants, followed by medium-weave diagonal forward sections through the front two quadrants. I lifted the hair to a level 10 using BLONDME Premium Lightener 9+ with BLONDME Premium

Developer 6% | 20 Vol

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Premium Gel Developer 2% | 7 Vol.

Colour 2: BLONDME Sand 9.5-41 with Premium Gel Developer 2% | 7 Vol. Colour 3: BLONDME Ice 10-1 and Sand 9.5-41 with Premium Gel Developer 2% | 7 Vol.”

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• Memory Bounce Booster.

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• Protects the hair from humidity, tames frizzy hair and provides healthy-looking shine.

• Provides heat protection up to 230 °C/450 °F.

• Light hold.

IGORA ROYAL HIGHLIFTS IS A MASSIVELY UNDERRATED PRODUCT THAT I USE REGULARLY ON CLIENTS. I LOVE THE TONAL DEPOSIT AND NUANCES CREATED WHEN LIFTING TO GIVE THAT REALLY TIMELESS FINISH. MY FAVOURITE FORMULA WHEN LIFTING A NATURAL BASE 7 IS 10-19 + 10-0 + 9% (1:1:1) FOR A BEAUTIFUL CARAMEL TONE.

ADAM VINCENZO STEVENS, ADAMSKI COLOUR ATELIER, @ADAMSKI_HAIR

Care Goals

Bonacure Sun Protect is specially developed to protect, cleanse and treat all hair types before and after sun exposure.

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• SCALP & HAIR PROTECTION MIST 100ML

• 3 IN 1 SCALP, HAIR & BODY CLEANSE 100ML

• 2 IN 1 TREATMENT 75ML

ALL ABOUT BONDING

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Hair by Farah Naz, Farah Naz Hairdressing @farahnazhair

Hairdressing is one of the most versatile careers – and it’s definitely not all about life on the salon floor. From backstage at Fashion Week to global education platforms, developing product lines and coaching the next generation, today’s hair pros are carving out incredible careers in every corner of the industry. In this new series, we spotlight the trailblazers who have taken their craft into new arenas and found extraordinary success along the way.

DAVIDE SPINELLI ON EDUCATION

Davide Spinelli has built a reputation as one of the industry’s most respected precision cutters and educators. Today, through shows, seminars and his own education platform, he teaches hairdressers around the world to achieve technical excellence and creative confidence. In this edition of Hairdressing Unbound, Davide shares how education became the focus of his career –and what it really takes to inspire the next generation of hairdressers on a global stage.

How did you get into education?

I was always very interested in improving myself, and I noticed early on in my career that the people with the most skills were the educators. This really struck true when I was working at Trevor Sorbie. I could see that the educators were the people doing everything – education, shows, shoots and all the creative work. They were always pushing themselves.

For me, it began from wanting to improve my skills. On my days off, I spent time in the academy training, trying to be close to the artistic team and the educators. I applied internally for opportunities and competitions, and I just tried to stay as close as possible to that environment. The first step was definitely improving my own skills and being around the people who were already doing education.

Was there a single moment you knew education was your path?

There have been a few moments. The beautiful thing about education is that you can really change somebody’s life. If you help someone improve their skills, their daily life in the salon improves –they earn more money, they feel happier and that affects their whole life. I think that is very powerful. One

moment that stayed with me was when I was teaching in Italy. There was a lady at the end of her career, almost retiring. At the end of the class, she came to me and said, “Thank you so much for teaching me. Usually people don’t teach me because they think I’m too old.” Moments like that make you realise how education really matters.

What have been the highlights of your career as an educator?

The most significant thing for my career was working at Trevor Sorbie. I was very lucky to meet Trevor, to work with him and to see him almost every day for many years. Learning from someone who had truly changed the industry was incredible. Trevor was strong and direct, and if you made a mistake he would tell you, but he was always humble. That had a big impact on me. There have also been some important events. I worked on Salon Congress for Aveda in Minneapolis, which was a big stage with around 2,000 people watching. That was a great experience. More recently I taught at the ‘Train the Trainers’ event

in Milan with Elgon. There were educators from 14 different countries. That was powerful because you are helping other educators improve their skills as well.

What’s been your biggest challenge?

To be honest, one of the biggest challenges for me has been adapting to social media. My career developed in a more traditional way – working in academies, teaching in salons, doing shows and education day and night. Now everything has to be communicated online, and that has been a big adjustment. The teaching itself has not been the challenge, as communication in the classroom is something I worked hard on – I took presentation courses and studied ways to improve how I explain things and connect with people –but learning how to translate everything you know into the modern digital world has definitely been the biggest challenge.

What makes a great hairdressing educator?

For me, a great educator is not someone who simply teaches, but someone who helps people achieve their goals. Observation is essential. You need to understand the person in front of you and guide them in the right direction. My philosophy is that learning requires three things: guidance, practice and persistence. Guidance helps you understand the technique clearly, practice develops the skill and persistence allows you to overcome failure and improve over time.

Haircutting is very physical – almost like a sport. Sometimes you need to physically guide someone and help them

find the right movement. Education is about finding the balance between guiding people and allowing them to learn through experience.

What does your essential toolkit look like as an educator?

The most important skill is communication. Sometimes educators say a lot, but the message doesn’t register –you need to learn how people actually understand information. This is why I study communication from different areas – psychology, neuroscience and other disciplines – to understand how people learn and how to explain things clearly. Observation, communication and empathy are the most important tools for an educator.

What does life look like for you now?

My time today is divided between working in the salon, teaching internationally and building my online education platform. I still work behind the chair a few days a week too. Being in the salon keeps me connected to real clients and real problems, which is important for the way I teach.

A lot of my time now is focused on developing DS Academy, my online education platform. I created it because I saw a gap in education. Many online tutorials are quick and don’t explain the foundations properly, so the idea with DS Academy is to provide structured education that focuses on the fundamentals. Things like the mechanics of haircutting, movement, sectioning and technique, all combined with mentorship and feedback so stylists can really improve their skills. Alongside this, I continue teaching globally, delivering seminars, workshops and in-salon education across different countries.

Who are your biggest mentors?

Trevor Sorbie has had the biggest impact on my career, along with colleagues, including Tiziana Di Marcelli. Other educators who inspire me are Andrea Martinelli and Tom Connell.

Is there anything you wished you’d known?

I wish I had understood earlier that how you relate to people – colleagues, students and everyone around you –is just as important as your skills.

SPEEDY 3!

Give us your top three tips for breaking into education:

✔ Be very critical of your own skills and keep improving them.

✔ Work on communication. You can be a great hairdresser, but you cannot teach if you cannot communicate.

✔ Don’t limit yourself. Start teaching what you know well and grow your knowledge over time.

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CONVERT THE CLIENT

Pro Hair’s Editorial Director, Nicola Shannon, tests the service…

“I’ve always found my frizzy ‘Irish’ hair quite difficult to manage, especially as I prefer to wear it as smooth and straight as possible. When I blow-dry my own hair, it takes a lot of time and effort, and it never quite looks the same as a professional salon blow-dry.

1 3 4 2

So, as you can imagine, I was very excited to meet Wella Brand Expert, Scott Evans, at the Wella Studio in London to experience the SmoothFiller™ treatment.”

“The process began with a cleanse using the Wella Professionals Ultimate Smooth shampoo to prepare the hair. Once my hair was towel-dried, the SmoothFiller™ treatment was carefully applied section-by-section. Scott explained that the product works by helping to smooth the hair cuticle, which is often the main cause of frizz.”

“The treatment is designed to smooth and control frizz while leaving the hair soft, shiny and much easier to style. After arriving at the Wella Studio, Scott began by assessing the condition of my hair and explaining how the treatment works.

SmoothFiller™ focuses on filling and smoothing the hair fibre, helping to tame unruly strands without weighing the hair down.”

“After allowing the treatment to process for 20 minutes, Scott then blow-dried my hair and sealed in the treatment with straighteners. I could see the difference immediately –my hair looked noticeably smoother, shinier and much more polished than when I style it myself at home. The finish was sleek but still natural, with movement and softness rather than feeling heavy or overly straightened.”

“What impressed me most was how manageable my hair felt afterwards. Normally, it takes a lot of effort to achieve a smooth finish, but after SmoothFiller™ my hair felt far easier to control. Even better, the results are designed to last for around three months –helping to make everyday styling quicker and less stressful. Plus, there are no after-care restrictions either.”

The biggest benefits we’re going to see in the hair is the smoothness. It’s going to take out a lot of that puffiness and frizz that we sometimes see, especially when the hair has got a lot more texture to it. It’s also going to help when it comes to doing your hair yourself –this is what SmoothFillerTM is all about!

It’s about creating easier styling opportunities for the clients themselves at home. When you go to the salon, the hairdresser does an amazing job, but it’s always about how you recreate that yourself.

SmoothFillerTM really is about achieving that easier, more straightforward blow-dry with a salon finish at home.

“Not only did I learn more about how to manage my naturally frizzy hair, but I also left with hair that felt healthier, smoother and much easier to style.”

SCOTT EVANS, WELLA PROFESSIONALS BRAND EXPERT

NICOLA SHANNON

HAVE I GOT YOUR RETENTION?

CULTURE CLUB

BACK IN 2009, KATYA MILAVIC DAVIES LAUNCHED MYLA AND DAVIS,AN INDEPENDENT, SOUTH LONDON HAIRDRESSING GROUP WITH FOUR SALONS. IN AN EXCLUSIVE SERIES WITH PRO HAIR, KATYA EXPLORES HOW TO CULTIVATE A SUPERCHARGED SALON CULTURE WITH A THOROUGHLY MODERN MINDSET.

At Myla and Davis, exemplary customer care isn’t just a policy; it’s our culture in action. We’ve built an incredible community of loyal clients across our salons, many of whom have been with us since the very beginning. With repeat retention rates holding strong at 84%, we’re especially proud that so much of our continued growth has come through genuine word of mouth.

However, in hairdressing, customer care goes beyond great hair – it’s as much about how we make people feel as about how we make them look. As customer-centric businesses, visions need to be both proactive and reactive, which we implement at Myla and Davis to ensure that every client interaction meets our ever-increasing standards.

While our industry is continually evolving, the constant is the human connection, which, when coupled with consistency, can yield the greatest results. It’s about remembering the smaller, often-forgotten details while creating a seamless customer experience that supersedes transactional thinking.

To ensure this, it’s important to be receptive and reactive to client change. Post-Covid, people craved human connection more than ever, and the vital role of salons on the high street was front-page news. This is what I love about our industry –it’s the nuanced, individual connections that matter the most.

As a group, we place strong emphasis on brand cohesion, which significantly shapes our service commitment to clients. This starts with shared values and clear communication. Each salon has its own character, but the principles of kindness, professionalism, inclusivity and quality underpin everything we do.

Cohesion comes from investing in our team; regular training, creative sessions and leadership development keep us aligned. Our tone, design and client journey are carefully considered, so while each space is different, the client experience stays consistent.

As experiential businesses, it’s this consistency that is key. Maintaining standards is an ongoing commitment, and defining your own customer-centric vision will serve as an internal blueprint. It is this that will set the tone for your business and underpin your retention.

“Understand that the heart of customer care is listening – to clients, to your team and to the wider world. Always balance professionalism with warmth, structure and flexibility.”

Here are my top tips for increasing your client retention rate:

• Rather than resisting change, embrace it.Update your policies to reflect the modern-day mindset. Remember, sometimes you have to pivot to progress.

• Never miss an opportunity to learn from a mistake – we all make them! Try not to take criticism personally, and instead implement the learning.

• Acknowledge that the way people value their time and money has shifted, and so have their service expectations. We’ve had to adapt to more flexible booking patterns, clearer digital communication and heightened expectations around sustainability and inclusivity.

• Build a customer care approach based on clarity, fairness and empathy –for both clients and team members in equal measure. Operational excellence should remain key, and policies around cancellations, timings and pricing should be transparent and communicated in a warm, human way to prioritise trust.

• Understand that the heart of customer care is listening – to clients, to your team and to the wider world. Always balance professionalism with warmth, structure and flexibility.

• Know that when clients feel understood, they come back andwhen staff feel trusted, they deliver a better service. That’s the real secret to longevity – not just great hair, but a genuine human connection that evolves with the times.

• Foster authentic customer care to build loyalty. This is built on relationships, not just appointments. When clients know they’re in good hands, both technically and personally, they remain loyal, even when life or locations change.

Remaining adaptive and responsive to client needs is key. A transparent customer policy –with kindness at its heart –shows clients you have a business that extends far beyond a transaction. It shows you have a proactive service commitment, helping you to resolve friction and increase loyalty as you go.

THE NEXT CUT REPURPOSING FOR GOOD

CELEBRATING 40 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY, AWARD-WINNING HAIRDRESSER, ANDREW BARTON, BELIEVES IN EVOLVING YOUR CRAFT THROUGH CREATIVITY, BUSINESS ACUMEN AND MENTORING. THIS MONTH, HE LOOKS AT SUSTAINABILITY AND HOW THE LITTLE PRINCESS TRUST REPURPOSES HAIR FOR GOOD.

Sustainability is a word we hear constantly in our industry. It appears in product launches, salon design, packaging claims and marketing messages. But every now and then, we see an example of sustainability that is truly meaningful –where purpose, community and impact all come together in a very real way. Within hairdressing, I believe one of the most powerful examples of this is the work from The Little Princess Trust.

For many of us, hair is our craft, our canvas and our livelihood. For a child experiencing hair loss through cancer treatment or other medical conditions, however, hair can represent something much deeper: confidence, identity and a sense of normality during an incredibly difficult time. The Little Princess Trust understands this profoundly. Through the generous donations of hair from salons and individuals across the country, the charity creates real-hair wigs for children and young people who have lost their hair.

What makes this initiative particularly inspiring is that it represents sustainability in its most human form. Hair that would otherwise be swept from the salon floor and discarded becomes something transformational; it is repurposed into a lifeline for a child who simply wants to feel like themselves again.

For salons, taking part is remarkably straightforward. When a client chooses to donate their hair, stylists simply ensure the hair meets the charity’s requirements – typically with a minimum length, clean condition and securely tied – before cutting. The hair is then packaged and sent directly to the charity, where it becomes part of the wig-making process.

However, the real impact is what goes beyond the act of cutting the hair. Salons that participate often discover that these moments become some of the most emotional and memorable experiences shared with clients. When someone sits in your chair ready to part with a significant length of their hair for such a meaningful cause, the atmosphere in the salon shifts; it becomes less about the haircut and more about the intention behind it.

Clients frequently bring friends, family members or even the children they are donating

“Hair that would otherwise be swept from the salon floor and discarded becomes something transformational; it is repurposed into a lifeline for a child who simply wants to feel like themselves again.”

for into these appointments. There are photographs taken, tears shed and, most importantly, conversations started about why this act matters. These moments offer salons an opportunity not just to do good, but to build deeper relationships with their communities. By explaining the process to clients – how the donated hair is turned into wigs and how those wigs change young lives – stylists become ambassadors for a powerful cause.

From a brand perspective, this kind of authenticity is invaluable. Consumers today are increasingly aware of sustainability claims, and rightly so. They want to see real action rather than marketing slogans. Supporting organisations like The Little Princess Trust allows salons to demonstrate that their values extend beyond the mirror. It also encourages clients to think differently about their own hair. What was once simply a haircut becomes a donation; what was once waste becomes hope.

There are many ways salons can support the initiative beyond individual donations. Hosting dedicated ‘donation days,’ sharing information on social media or displaying educational materials in the salon can help raise awareness. Even simply discussing the option with long-haired clients can spark interest and participation.

And perhaps that is the most beautiful part of this story: the ripple effect. How a client’s decision to donate their hair can inspire another, and a single conversation in the salon chair can encourage someone else to grow their hair for donation. Over time, these small actions create a powerful network of kindness across the whole industry.

Hairdressers have always been in a unique position; we are trusted with people’s appearances, but also with their stories. Every day, clients open up to us about their lives, their challenges, their celebrations and, sometimes, their fears.

Through initiatives like The Little Princess Trust, we have the opportunity to turn our craft into something even more meaningful. We can help transform hair - something we work with every day - into confidence, comfort and joy for a child who truly needs it. That, to me, is sustainability in its most genuine form...

LESSONS FROM TOUGH CONVERSATIONS

BEYOND THE CHAIR:

WHAT OTHER INDUSTRIES CAN TEACH US ABOUT RUNNING A SALON

LORENZO COLANGELO HAS RUN THE GALLERY IN KENT FOR 30 YEARS – A SALON THAT WAS CROWNED PROFESSIONAL INDEPENDENT SALON OF THE YEAR 2025 (SPONSORED BY WELLA PROFESSIONALS) AT THE PRO HAIR AWARDS. IN THIS SERIES, HE TELLS US ALL ABOUT THE SURPRISING LESSONS HE’S LEARNT ABOUT SALON OWNERSHIP THROUGH LOOKING OUTSIDE THE HAIR INDUSTRY.

What initially drew me to the book Radical Candor by Kim Scott was the reality of managing a team. If I’m honest, I think many business owners fall into one of two traps: we’re either overly empathetic with people and trying not to upset anyone, or we end up coming across as insincere and manipulative in the way we deliver feedback. Radical Candor sits right in the middle of that. The premise is very simple – care personally while challenging directly. In other words, you care about the individual as a human being, but you’re also honest enough to tell them the truth about their performance.

Now that may sound obvious, but in practice it’s surprisingly difficult. Most salon owners will recognise the scenario where someone isn’t quite cutting it – maybe their consultation is weak, their timekeeping is slipping or their results just aren’t consistent – but instead of addressing it straight away, we skirt around it and avoid the conversation because we don’t want to make things awkward. However, what Radical Candor points out is that this can actually make things far worse.

There’s an example in the book about a manager who avoided telling a long-standing employee that his work wasn’t good enough. She didn’t want to hurt his feelings, so the feedback never came. Eventually, she had to let him go for underperformance. His response was simple: “Why didn’t you tell me?” That really stuck with me. Because the truth is, by avoiding the conversation, she had actually failed him as a leader.

I think many of us have done the same thing at some point. In hairdressing, criticism can feel particularly personal. We’ve all been there –someone pointing out that a haircut wasn’t quite right or a colour hasn’t landed. It’s easy to remember what that feels like and try to cushion everything in layers of reassurance, but sometimes the most respectful thing you can do for someone is simply be honest. The book talks about something called ‘ruinous empathy’. That is when you care so much about someone’s feelings that you avoid giving them the feedback they genuinely

“Because if you genuinely care about someone’s progression, you have an obligation to tell them what might be holding them back. Not as criticism, but as a way forward.”

need to grow. Short term, it feels kinder. Long term, it holds them back.

One principle I also believe in is about praising in public and critiquing in private. No one wants to be called out in front of the whole team, but recognising someone’s achievements publicly – when they’re consistently delivering great work, five-star reviews or smashing their KPIs –that’s powerful. It reinforces the behaviours you want to see more of. At the same time, when something isn’t right, the conversation needs to happen calmly and privately. Not as a reprimand, but as a discussion about development. This isn’t teacher-to-student or parent-to-child; it’s adult-to-adult. It’s a conversation about helping someone achieve their goals, and that only works if you actually know what those goals are.

Another part of leadership that’s closely linked to this is building a cohesive team. For me, that’s about creating shared goals that everyone buys into – not just targets I’ve set from the top down. When the team is invested in those outcomes, celebrating success together becomes meaningful. We’ve done this over the years with team meals, trips away or rewards that are genuinely worth having. If you’re going to celebrate success, it has to feel like something special.

In my opinion, leadership isn’t about being in charge; it’s about taking care of the people in your charge. And that’s where ‘radical candor’ becomes so important. Because if you genuinely care about someone’s progression, you have an obligation to tell them what might be holding them back. Not as criticism, but as a way forward.

In fact, I quite like the idea of thinking about it as ‘feed-forward’, rather than feedback. It’s less about dwelling on what went wrong and more about asking how we improve from here.

So, if there’s one takeaway from this concept, it’s this: don’t be afraid of candid conversations. People often value honesty far more than polite avoidance, mainly because honesty helps them grow. And ultimately, growth – for individuals, teams and businesses – is exactly what good leadership should be about.

PARTNERSHIP THAT GOES BEYOND THE PRODUCT

In professional hairdressing, great partnerships are built on more than products; they’re built on people, trust and a genuine understanding of the realities of salon life. For Gina Jacobs, Business Development Manager for Revlon Professional and American Crew, that human connection sits at the centre of everything she does. Here, she discusses relationships, trust and serving salons from the heart.

“It’s not just about ‘their’ salon or ‘our’ brand anymore,” Gina says. “It’s about what we can actually do together.” Working closely with salons day to day, Gina believes true partnership is rooted in collaboration and shared goals. “It’s about understanding what a salon wants to achieve and how we can merge those ambitions together,” she explains. “Long gone are the days of brands only thinking about themselves.”

For Gina, relationships always come before transactions. Her perspective is shaped by experience on both sides of the industry. Having previously worked in salons and run a chain of salons herself, she understands the realities hairdressers face every day – from managing teams and running businesses to navigating the practical challenges that come with keeping a salon running.

“That experience allows me to connect with salons in a different way,” she says. “I understand the graft and the pressures, and I think that helps build trust.” Trust, she believes, is built through consistency, honesty and great customer service. “People buy people,” she says simply. “You can have the best product in the world, but if you don’t connect with someone, they’re not going to buy from you. It’s about bringing the right energy and building relationships that people genuinely want to spend time in.”

That philosophy reflects the wider Revlon Professional approach –serving the industry with passion and integrity. “You need empathy, motivation and a genuine understanding of what’s happening in the industry.” Gina says. “Everyone says it, but you really do have to listen. Once you understand what someone needs, you can actually deliver on it. There’s no point promising something you can’t do.”

Supporting salons goes far beyond the traditional monthly visit. Gina sees her role as connecting salons with the wider ecosystem that Revlon Professional offers – from education and networking to events and long-term career opportunities.

“When you partner with Revlon Professional, you partner with the whole team,” she explains. “Yes, there’s education – from academy courses to look-and-learns, mega sessions and advanced programmes like our Colour Specialist or Visionaries programmes –but there’s also the sense of community.”

From major industry events to collaborative learning experiences, Gina believes those touchpoints create something unique. “Some people want to be heavily involved in the industry, others simply want to focus on their chair – and both are equally important. Our role is to support hairdressers in whichever way suits them best.”

Over the years, Gina has seen first-hand how strong partnerships can help salons grow. She recalls one salon that began as two sisters with a vision and a five-year expansion plan. By working closely together and building a clear strategy, that goal was achieved in just two years – doubling the size of the business and eventually expanding into education. “For me, moments like that are incredibly rewarding,” she says. “Seeing someone’s dream become reality and knowing you’ve helped support that journey – that’s what partnership is all about.”

Ultimately, great customer service in today’s industry comes down to three things, Gina believes: loyalty, trust and belief in a shared journey. “I want salons to feel supported and valued,” she says. “That when I’m with them, they have 100% of me. And that they’re not just working with a brand; they’re part of a family.”

To learn more or to become a Revlon Professional stockist, visit www.revlonprofessional.com/contact

SUPPORTING CLIENTS THROUGH DEMENTIA

CARE IN HAIR

LOYAL CLIENTS PROVIDE THE FOUNDATION FOR A LASTING HAIRDRESSING CAREER, CREATING RELATIONSHIPS THAT CAN GO ON FOR DECADES. WHAT HAPPENS, HOWEVER, WHEN CLIENTS GROW OLDER, FRAILER AND, IN SOME CASES, BEGIN LIVING WITH CONDITIONS SUCH AS DEMENTIA?

AFTER MORE THAN 30 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY, TIM SCOTT-WRIGHT, OWNER OF THE HAIR SURGERY IN STOURBRIDGE, IS SUPPORTING A NUMBER OF CLIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES AS THEY FACE ONE OF THE UK’S BIGGEST HEALTH CHALLENGES.

Many of the women who have sat in Tim’s chair are now in their seventies, eighties and nineties, and their weekly salon appointment has taken on a new significance.

“Dementia is such a cruel disease, and it can be so upsetting for everyone involved. Most of the time, I have picked up on small changes in behaviour, rather than a family member talking to me about what might be going on. It could be a client completely forgetting their PIN number, or turning up to the salon on the wrong day when they’ve kept the same appointment for the last 10 years,” explains Tim.

“I actually had a second job in a care home when I first started training as a hairdresser. My mum was also a nurse and cared for dementia patients, so I’ve grown up around it. This previous experience has helped in recognising some of the things to look out for and how to adapt the way I look after them,” he continues.

Tim’s salon has always been rooted in long-term relationships. In fact, many of his regulars have only ever had their hair done by three hairdressers across generations. “Over the years, we have joked that Peter Priest got them through births and marriages, Umberto Giannini got them through HRT and menopause and I’ve got them through hip replacements and dementia!”

This deep-running shared history means changes in clients are often noticed quickly, even before a diagnosis is discussed. “The changes were small to begin with. There were often repetitive conversations, small moments where something felt a bit off, but then sometimes that leads to more erratic behaviour or confusion,” Tim explained.

One of the most important things Tim has learnt is how communication needs to change. “When someone is living with dementia, you don’t correct them; you go along with the conversation. If they repeat themselves five times, you answer them five

“Over the years, we have joked that Peter Priest got them through births and marriages, Umberto Giannini got them through HRT and menopause and I’ve got them through hip replacements and dementia!”

times. I might ask how their sons are doing, and they’ll say they’re doing wonderfully at school. In reality, those sons are grown men with careers, but in the client’s mind, they’re back 30 years. You just go with it; you don’t cause distress.”

Supporting vulnerable clients doesn’t always mean making dramatic changes to the salon environment, often it’s just about extra awareness and care. “There’s definitely a duty of care that goes beyond the chair,” says Tim. “Some clients may forget they’re mid-service with a colour on their head and attempt to leave, while others need extra help moving around the salon. It’s about being aware of their movements so they don’t go somewhere that could confuse or frighten them.”

For many families, the weekly salon appointment represents normality. Tim remembers one client vividly from the early days of his career: “She used to arrive in a white Porsche wearing a white Armani suit, heading to the gym with this beautiful bob –she was so glamorous! Even now, she is still brought to the salon by her son every week. For the family, it’s about keeping part of who she was alive. And when she leaves the salon with freshly styled hair, her family sees something familiar again. She resembles a bit more of the person they know.”

For Tim, this type of client experience has been both emotional and humbling. It has reawakened a part of his role that can sometimes be forgotten in the busy world of salon business. “These women were the age I am now when I first met them. It makes you realise how quickly life can change. They’ve brought care, compassion and patience to the forefront of everything I do. As a salon owner, you’re sometimes so focused on running a business and looking after a team, but these women remind you why the human side of hairdressing matters.”

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SMARTER PERFORMANCE

With seven new shades that deliver up to 4 levels of lift, Smart Lift is designed to sit seamlessly within the PCC family. This means you can mix, match and customise your results using the shades you already know and trust. Creative ﬂexibility, tonal direction and soft white hair blending, Smart Lift handles it all — while still maintaining the hair’s integrity too.

FLEXIBLE AND CREATIVE

THE SMART LIFT RANGE:

• Works with 6%, 9% or 12% Cream Developer.

• Pairs perfectly with Color Transformer for softer, demi-like results.

• Fully intermixable with your existing PCC shades for enhanced creative versatility.

• Soft grey blending (ideal for 80–100% white hair while maintaining luminosity).

Whether you’re refreshing a root, creating a global lift or blending soft greys, Smart Lift gives you the ﬂexibility, control and creative freedom to craft the exact look your client is dreaming of.

...and just FYI: Shade 10.0 (an existing PCC favourite) has also been upgraded with Bonding Technology and the HyaluronicOil-Complex –making it now ofﬁcially part of the Smart Lift family.

BUILT-IN CARE

Your clients want the lift, but they also want healthy, shiny hair? Well, Smart Lift delivers both. The formula features Bonding Technology and 20% less ammonia, so the hair stays strong and resilient. Add to this Hyaluronic-Oil-Complex for moisture and Apricot Kernel Oil for strength, shine and smoothness, and you can deliver luminous, beautifully-toned hair that feels as good as it looks. Everything your clients want!

Silver Veil GET THE COVER LOOK:

SILVER VEIL IS A LUMINOUS BEIGE BLONDE WITH A SOFT, NEUTRAL-TO-COOL REFLECT. SUBTLE BEIGE AND ASH-BLONDE TONES CREATE REFINED DEPTH AND DIMENSION. THIS IS WHITE HAIR, ELEVATED.

Introducing the new PCC SILVER VEIL from INDOLA. A modern, white hair-blending technique powered by the new PCC SMART LIFT, designed speciﬁcally for 80–100% white bases. This is intelligent toning that softly enhances and blends while preserving the natural luminosity of white hair –no ﬂat colour, no heavy coverage and no compromise.

APPLICATION BEFORE

STEP 1:

APPLY COLOUR A (UNDERNEATH SECTION)

Starting in the nape area, apply:

Colour A: PCC Smart Lift 10.1 + 10.0 + 10.18 (2:1:1) with Cream Developer 6% (1:1).

Apply through the lengths and ends of the complete underneath section. Process for 10 minutes, then apply Colour A to the roots of the lower section to maintain a seamless blend.

STEP 3:

PROCESS & REFINE

Allow the colour to process for a full 35 minutes.

STEP 2: APPLY COLOUR B (STAR SECTION)

Open the star section and apply:

Colour B: PCC SmartLift 10.1 + 10.25 (3:1) with Cream Developer 6% (1:1).

Apply through the lengths and ends and allow to process for 10 minutes, then apply Colour B to the roots of the star section.

STEP 4: CLEANSE & ENHANCE SHINE

Rinse thoroughly and cleanse and condition with theINDOLAColor range. Finish with INDOLAColor Treatment to enhance shine, smooth the cuticle and lock in tone clarity.

WHAT TO USE

Begin by cleansing with INDOLA Color Shampoo to protect the tone and maintain vibrancy in the hair. Follow with INDOLA Color Treatment to smooth the cuticle, enhance shine and keep the colour looking luminous and multidimensional.

For softer, more ﬂexible colour results in salon, mix your chosen PCC shade with INDOLA Color Transformer instead of developer to achieve a demi-permanent effect with added shine and reduced commitment.

To refresh tone between appointments, recommend INDOLA Color Style Mousse –perfect for reviving faded shades, enhancing dimension or neutralising unwanted warmth in just one step.

Would you like to get your hands on the new INDOLA PCC Smart Lift range and aftercare recommendations to create this month’s Pro Hair cover? To win this free bundle of products, go to: www.rdr.link/HBM001

SUNLIT BRUNETTE

A warm dark blonde enriched with golden undertones. Soft caramel highlights create a sun-kissed glow, adding natural dimension and radiant shine.

FORMULA:

PCC 10.4 + 10.1 + 10.0 (2:1:1) mixed with Cream Developer 9% (1:1).

LUXE LIVED BLONDE

A warm blonde base interwoven with soft rose-gold and light copper tones. Mauve and dusty pink accents create a luminous, multidimensional effect that shifts between golden warmth and cool iridescence.

FORMULA:

Roots: PCC 8.18 + 7.0 (3:1) with Cream Developer 9% (1:1).

Lengths 1: PCC 10.18 + PCC 8.34 (1:1) with Cream Developer 9% (1:1).

Lengths 2: PCC 10.25 + PCC 6.77 (4:1) with Cream Developer 9% (1:1).

Face Framing + Ends: PCC 10.76 + 10.0 (1:1) with Cream Developer 12% (1:1).

SILVER VEIL TONING

A luminous beige blonde with a soft neutral-to-cool tone. Subtle beige and ash nuances add reﬁned depth, ensuring the colour remains multidimensional and never ﬂat –ideal for softly blending high percentages of white hair.

FORMULA:

A: PCC 10.1 + 10.0 + 10.18 (2:1:1) with Cream Developer 6% (1:1). B: PCC 10.1 + 10.25 (3:1) with Cream Developer 6% (1:1).

IF YOU WANT TO LIFT SMARTER, TONE BEAUTIFULLY AND PROTECT HAIR EVERY STEP OF THE WAY WITH YOUR BLONDE SERVICES, VISIT WWW.INDOLA.COM OR FOLLOW @INDOLAUK ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR THE LATEST UPDATES AND EXPERT TIPS.

PEACH GLOW

A reﬁned blonde with soft apricot and rose reﬂections. The delicate interplay of warm tones creates a luminous, multi-dimensional effect that shifts beautifully with the light. Radiant yet sophisticated, it balances brightness with depth, ensuring the colour feels both modern and wearable.

FORMULA:

Roots: PCC 10.4 + PCC 8.0 (1:1) with Cream Developer 9% (1:1).

Lengths 1: PCC 10.4 + CREA-MIX 0.66 (30:1) with Cream Developer 9% (1:1).

Lengths 2: PCC 10.76 + CREA-MIX 0.66 (30:1) with Cream Developer 9% (1:1).

Opulence hairdressing @opulencehairdressing

Farah Khalid Pritchard @farahnazhair

Vanessa Morgan @magic_hair_wizard

Farah Khalid Pritchard @farahnazhair

Revlon Professional Portfolio Collective

Creative Direction: Marney Lian Make-Up: Maddie Austin Styling: Freya Sherriffs

Photography: David Ralph Products: Revlon Professional

Fay Smith @houseofhairhostess

Opulence hairdressing @opulencehairdressing

Vanessa Morgan @magic_hair_wizard

Prismatica

Andrew Smith

“When light is obstructed, it finds a new path. It doesn’t stop or give up; it reflects and adapts to create beautiful returns to the eye, occasionally reinventing itself into stunning new shapes. I wanted to play with this concept and try to imagine how different returns of light could inspire me within the colour placements.’’

Hair: Andrew Smith Make-Up: Louise Lerego Styling: Borna Prikaski Photography: Richard Miles

SALON CRAFTED STYLING

GIVE YOUR CLIENTS COMMERCIALLY CONFIDENT HAIR.

Styling:

Make-Up: Kirsten Baillie

Photography: Michael Young Products: Shed

Hair: Amelia Wilmott, Charlotte Singleton, Darcey Clarke

Clare Frith

Natural movement and softly layered shapes bring a modern edge to everyday salon styling. This collection from Shed [Salon Hair Every Day] focuses on enhanced texture, healthy shine and beautifully finished hair that feels contemporary yet completely wearable. The result is elevated, commercial hair that’s designed to move effortlessly from the salon to real life.

Alongside this collection, Shed is proud to announce the appointment of its new artistic team: Amelia Wilmott Charlotte Singleton and Darcey Clarke. Working in close collaboration with Photographer Michael Young, the trio played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identity of the collection, selecting the looks and leading the hair styling direction on set. Their combined creativity and technical expertise bring a fresh, contemporary energy to the brand, marking an exciting new chapter for Shed

Darcey

“I love Shed because it’s for everyone. Every person, hair type and occasion. The products are so versatile and they focus on making the everyday look great.”

Amelia

“My favourite part of the shoot was working collaboratively with Charlotte and Darcey. Alongside Michael too, there was so much talent in one room! We all bring different ideas to the table, but as a trio, we are such a great team with ideas that align!”

Charlotte

“We collectively chose the looks to reflect the brand –Salon Hair Every Day. We focused on enhancing each model’s natural texture and selecting the right products to suit their individual hair.”

ABOUT SHED

Shed is a brand that protects the integrity of the hairdresser by producing high-performing professional haircare and styling products, as well as supporting in-salon retail opportunities.

Performance:

Shed has a single focus to create the best professional products on the market. Shed products are effective but uncomplicated, allowing clients to recreate salon looks at home to achieve #salonhaireveryday.

Empowerment:

Shed collaborates with stylists to inspire them on their professional journey through the industry –wherever that takes them. It understands and adapts to changing trends to ensure that, as the professional, you’re always one

“The brand is ‘Salon Hair Every Day’, and my interpretation was to show how beautiful, expressive hair can exist beyond the salon chair - in real life, with real attitude. We focused on texture, movement and individuality - letting the hair lead each frame rather than overpower it. I wanted the images to feel fresh, relatable and happy - like glimpses of women completely owning their look.”

Michael Young

Creativity:

Shed is a brand for every stylist and salon client. Whether you showcase your craft through bridal or barbering, the catwalk or the dancefloor, session or salon styling, Shed celebrates hairdressers from high street to high fashion.

Integrity:

Shed believes that salons shouldn’t be treated as showrooms. That’s why when a client searches Shed online, they won’t see the products available cheaper in high-street stores or on top e-commerce websites.

Charlotte singleton

On Lucy, we prepped the hair using an[gel] liquid sculpting gel spray, then used a mix of different sized round brushes for the blow-dry. We set the hair in pin curls and then released them to achieve a soft, bouncy backstage blowout look. Once everything was set, we finished with highrise medium hold hairspray and mirror mirror shineenhancing finishing spray for that final polished touch.

On Freya, we used a mix of tonging and ‘S’ wave techniques to create a textured, effortless look. We focused on framing her face and enhancing her natural features. The products we used to support this were peace out dry wax texture spray and beehive backcomb effect texturising spray to keep the style in place whilst still maintaining some natural movement.

For more information about shed and to explore the full range of products, scan here:

Amelia Wilmott

For Taina, we wanted to work with the shape and movement of her natural hair. We first applied force-field heat styling protection spray to protect Taina’s hair from any heat, before smoothing out the ends of her hair to tame any frizz with a size 13 brush. Next, we went in with straighteners and mimicked the natural ‘S’ shaped bend in areas that weren’t as strong in shape or movement. To dress out the hair, we used peace out dry wax texture spray to apply texture, before asking Taina to shake her hair around to get some natural volume through it. For the final finishing touch, we used highrise medium hold hairspray and mirror mirror shine enhancing finishing spray, brushed through with a wide-tooth comb.

DARCEY Clarke

For Beth’s look, we prepped the hair with force-field heat styling protection spray and blow-dried the hair smooth for a workable base.

In order to hold the style, we used a small amount of cement extreme hold texture spray, before curling the hair with a 28mm barrel using a bouncy curl technique. We focused on creating volume through the mid-lengths and ends to leave a smoother root area.

To assist with holding the style, a small amount of highrise medium hold hairspray was applied before finishing with mirror mirror shine enhancing finishing spray

Freelance forum...

A FREELANCE STATE OF MIND

BROOKE EVANS IS OUR PROFESSIONAL FREELANCE HAIRDRESSER OF THE YEAR 2025 AT THE PRO HAIR AWARDS – SPONSORED BY THE FREELANCE SUITE. IN AN EXCLUSIVE SERIES WITH US, SHE DISSECTS EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BECOMING AN INDEPENDENT STYLIST.

THIS MONTH, BROOKE ADVISES ON HOW TO CHOOSE THE

BRANDS YOU WORK WITH.

Being self-employed gives you the freedom to choose the brands you work with, but with so many options available on the market, that freedom can feel both exciting and overwhelming. As a self-employed stylist, you are your own boss, and that means both the responsibility and the opportunity sit entirely with you.

Choosing the right brand is about much more than simply picking the colour line you like or a product that smells great; the brands you work with should align with the direction you want your business and career to go in. They also need to work for your pricing structure, because the cost of your colour and product range will ultimately affect both your service pricing and your profit margins. It’s important to think carefully about whether a brand fits with the level of client that you attract and the experience that you want to deliver.

Another key consideration is your personal and professional identity. What do you want to be known for? Understanding what you stand for and what you want to achieve will help guide your decisions when it comes to choosing the brands you work with. If sustainability is important to you, for example, it’s worth looking into whether the brands you’re considering are vegan, environmentally conscious or family-run businesses that align with your ethos.

When I first opened my salon, I was approached by a number of different colour houses who wanted to work with me. It was flattering, but it also meant I had to carefully consider what each brand was offering and how it would support my business. At the time, it was really important to me to look beyond the products themselves; I wanted to understand what opportunities the brand could offer outside of simply supplying colour. Were there opportunities for education? Could they support creative work, networking or career development? These were the questions that helped shape my decision.

In the early days of running a business, practical

“Choosing

the right brand is about much more than simply picking the colour line you like or a product that smells great; the brands you work with should align with the direction you want your business and career to go in.”

considerations also come into play. I decided to work with a well-known colour house that offered financial support in the form of a listing fee, as long as I committed to using their products for a set period of time and meeting a certain level of spend. As a new salon owner, this financial support made a huge difference.

As your business grows and evolves, however, the opportunities you are presented with will change as well. Over the years, I was approached by several other colour houses, but none of them felt quite right. It’s easy to be tempted by big names or attractive offers, but ultimately, the partnership needs to feel like a genuine fit for your business and the direction you’re heading in.

Five years later, I was approached by Quif, and this time it felt right. The company reflected many of the values that are important to me – it’s a family-run brand, it’s vegan and it’s environmentally conscious. Those factors aligned closely with my own brand ethos and the message I wanted to communicate to my clients. Beyond that, Quif also offered a product range that suited the services I provide and the results I wanted to achieve.

Education and opportunities outside of the salon chair were also incredibly important to me. As my career progressed and my business model evolved, I wanted the opportunity to work in different spaces – whether that was teaching, presenting or getting involved in creative projects. Quif supported those ambitions and offered opportunities that allowed me to grow beyond working behind the chair.

Ultimately, choosing the brands you work with as a self-employed stylist requires thinking in the long-term. The right partnerships should support your creativity, align with your values and help move your career forward. It’s not just about what you use today; it’s about what those brands can help you achieve in the future.

Freelance forum...

GOING SOLO

AS MORE AND MORE STYLISTS ARE CHOOSING TO GO SOLO AND ENJOY THE FREEDOM OF SELF-EMPLOYMENT, THE TRADITIONAL SALON MODEL IS UNDERGOING A PROFOUND TRANSFORMATION. DRIVEN BY A DESIRE OF GREATER AUTONOMY AND A BETTER WORK-LIFE BALANCE, THESE INDEPENDENT PROFESSIONALS ARE REDEFINING THE INDUSTRY. IN THE SECOND OF A NEW FREELANCE FORUM SERIES, WE SPEAK TO GEORGIA MOUNTAIN ABOUT HER SOLO MOVE.

Georgia Mountain hasn’t always led a solo career; the initial days of her journey were spent in a busy salon where she rose through the ranks to the role of manager/trainer. Since making the decision to launch her own small business, she has found being self-employed one of the most empowering chapters of her career to date. She now juggles managing all aspects of her business – including client relations, scheduling, marketing, social media, stock management, budgeting and her endless quest for further education.

What was the moment you realised working solo might actually suit you better than being in a team or salon?

I loved working in a big team prior to ‘going solo’, but having said that, I was fiercely independent and more than ready to step out of my comfort zone and bring on some new challenges. This move has allowed me to be in full control of my diary, as well as taking on new opportunities outside of the salon. Yes, I have chosen to base myself in a salon environment, but it’s my salon environment. It is only me and a beautician that work under the Lulabell’s roof, which works perfectly for us as we have a lot of shared clients. Plus, they enjoy the fact that they can enjoy multiple treatments in one place!

What fears or doubts did you have before going out on your own?

I was initially concerned whether I would be able to manage my column without having an assistant by my side to help out, but I’ve now learnt that I’m more than capable!

What’s the biggest thing you’ve gained creatively since working solo?

I’ve been really focused on my creativity and my profile. I have entered and finalised for the Pro Hair Awards Professional Young Talent of the Year and BHA Newcomer of the Year, and I’ve also taken on PR representation to keep my name out there. I’ve won various awards in

“I was initially concerned whether I would be able to manage my column without having an assistant by my side to help out, but I’ve now learnt that I’m more than capable!”

recognition of my colour and education work – and I’ll keep on entering them! I’ve enjoyed lots of education, including wig craft, and I am now teaching externally.

Has going solo changed the way you work with clients?

It has, totally! I would say the 1:1 experience with my clients has really enhanced our relationship. It feels more relaxed as I’ve invested more time into it; we can both enjoy each other’s company more.

What’s been the most suprising upside of working alone?

I’ve learnt how to value my time. It’s also opened numerous doors which have led to me being far more exposed to the industry at large. I’ve met some really great people along the way, and I’ve made some truly supportive friendships too.

What’s one thing people don’t talk about enough when it comes to working alone in this industry?

I think a lot of people think it’s going to be lonely, but it’s actually not. As long as you stay up to date with current trends and network with others in the industry, I believe you’ll meet an abundance of like-minded people.

Was there anything you had to unlearn after leaving a traditional set-up?

I would say the main thing was just learning to be more aware of my time and how I run my column.

Looking back now, what advice would you give to someone considering stepping out on their own?

Don’t be afraid to take the leap – the opportunities out there are endless!

Voices From the Salon Floor...

Street Style – Get the Salon Look

The Look: Lavender Fitpix

Lavender Fitpix is a modern pixie full of personality. It’s bold yet effortless, playful yet refined. It’s proof that short hair can be expressive, low maintenance and completely timeless. This effortlessly cool crop delivers high impact with low effort, combining precision cutting with soft, pastel toning to create a look that feels playful, modern and completely wearable.

APPLICATION

Step 1: Pre-Lighten the Base

Create the perfect canvas using INDOLA Blonde Expert Lightener 9+ White with Cream Developer 2%. Begin the application at the back using clean, fine sections, focusing on the roots first. After 20 minutes of development, continue saturating through the mid-lengths and ends to achieve an even, bright blonde base. Before lightening, apply INDOLA Insta Strong Spray to support and protect the hair’s integrity during the service.

WHAT TO USE

Step 2: Create the Lavender Tone

Tone the lightened base using strategic pastel placements: P.17 mixed with Cream Developer 2% (1:1) + P.27 + P.2 mixed 1:1 with Cream Developer 2% (1:1). Select two sections and fully saturate the hair. Once applied, gently blend the tones together using a wide-tooth comb to create soft contrast and seamless pastel transitions.

Apply Blonde Expert Insta Strong Restoring Spray before colouring in order to maintain the hair’s integrity.

Next, NN2 is designed to protect the scalp and prevent staining, ensuring comfortable and worry-free colouring services. It can be applied directly to the skin or intermixed with PCC, Blonde Expert HighLift range, Pastel Cream Toner range and Lightener 9+

Lastly, Salt Spray and Shine Wax can be used for styling.

For more information on INDOLA, visit www.indola.com or follow @indolauk on socials for the latest updates and expert tips.

Step 3: Cut the Fitpix Shape

Cut the hair into a close-to-the-head pixie, with soft graduation through the sides and nape. Add textured layers through the crown and leave subtle disconnected areas slightly longer to create lift, personality and styling versatility. Lastly, create a soft fringe to frame the face while maintaining a modern, effortless feel.

Step 4: Style With Ease

Keep styling simple. Air-dry for natural movement or enhance texture using INDOLA Salt Spray. Finish with Shine Wax to define the layers and highlight the pastel dimension.

Pixies are incredibly versatile, but the key is customisation. We look at your face shape, bone structure and lifestyle to create a cut that feels balanced and flattering. Texture is everything –soft layers, structured edges or a choppy finish can completely change the vibe. Confidence is also part of the equation; it’s about finding a style that makes you feel like you. A consultation is essential; it allows us to experiment with length, shape and styling options before taking the plunge. Every pixie should feel modern, wearable and tailored to you.

Client: “I love the idea of a pixie cut, but will it work with my hair type?”

Absolutely, almost every hair type can work with a pixie, but the approach differs. Fine hair benefits from layers or texturising to create volume and movement. Thick hair might need strategic thinning to avoid bulk and maintain shape. Curly hair looks stunning with a pixie, especially when layers enhance natural texture and definition. Straight hair can achieve a sleek or edgy look with precision cutting. Overall, the secret is tailoring the cut to your natural growth pattern, density and texture.

THE LAUNCHPAD

DESIGNED TO SHINE

DESIGNME, the professional, vegan, Canadian haircare brand born in salons, has arrived in the UK. The launch includes a curated line-up of over 50 professional products and salon retail essentials designed to style, treat and care for all hair types and textures. The leading collections include: PUFF.ME for volume and texture; BOUNCE.ME for curl and definition; GLOSS.ME for hydration and shine; QUICKIE.ME for refresh and dry shampoo; HOLD.ME for hold and control.

SWEET DREAMS

Beauty Works has unveiled its latest limited-edition retail opportunity: The Best Sellers Collection – Sleep Edition Designed to enhance overnight haircare, this curated edit has been created with extensions in mind. Helping to minimise tangling, frizz and breakage during sleep, the new set works to deliver both performance and strong retail value. The set includes: 10-in-1 Miracle Spray, Argan Oil Serum, Pearl Nourishing Argan Oil Shampoo and Conditioner, plus a satin pillowcase, protective scrunchie and bristle brush.

USING WATER WISELY

Introducing Small Wonder, a new powdered haircare system crafted for more sustainable hair washing. Designed to be refillable, portable and planet friendly, Small Wonder hopes to prove that successful haircare doesn’t need to use unnecessary water. The range includes the Signature Shampoo –A powder-to-lather cleanser that activates with water to deliver a rich, creamy lather without the weight of traditional water-filled formulas –and the Signature Conditioner, which transforms from a concentrated powder into a luxurious conditioning cream to soften, detangle and nourish the hair.

HERE COMES THE SUN

As we move into the summer months, R+Co has unveiled its Sun Catcher Power C Nourish + Refresh Styling Spray. A Vitamin-C infused mist, the product works to prep or refresh the hair whilst protecting it from UV damage, pollution, frizz and heat up to 230°C/450°F. The formula contains Hyaluronic Acid for nourishment and hydration, Goji Berry to smooth frizz and tame ends, and Vegan Peptides for fortified strands and improved pliability.

PLANT PARADISE

Created in partnership with Aveda Artists, the new Tousle Texture Dry Texture Spray from Aveda works to deliver touchable texture without dryness or stickiness. The vegan formula contains Zeolite minerals to offer an airy texture and volume, and Cassava extract to boost volume and keep styles in place. The product has also been crafted to immerse the senses in the brand’s own Pure-Fume Aroma – with Lavender, Ylang Ylang and Petitgrain.

GLIMMER AND GLISTEN

The new Bonacure Repair Rescue+ Shine Treatment from Schwarzkopf Professional is a concentrated liquid treatment that works to instantly boost shine and help repair the hair’s inner bonds. Crafted to smoothen the cuticle, reduce hair breakage and repair damage, the product is designed to leave the hair with a glossy finish and mirror-like shine.

FEEL THE POWER

Introducing the latest electrical from ElectricHead Jog: The Futaria Hair Dryer Moonlight. Engineered for the needs of the modern professional, the hairdryer features a powerful 1800W motor for high-velocity airflow and a 104,000 RPM pro-grade motor to dramatically reduce drying time. The result is a tool that combines power, precision and a whisper-quiet operation.

LET IT GROW

Following on from the launch of the new range earlier in the year, ASP has now released The Kitoko Hair Growth Gift Set. Featuring its bestselling Kitoko Hair Growth Shampoo, Conditioner, Scalp Tonic and Scalp Massager, the limited-edition kit has been designed to unblock, revive and anchor the hair follicle during the catagen stage. The formulas work to improve microcirculation and remove the barriers that restrict growth, leaving the hair visibly thicker, longer and stronger.

WELLBEING COLOUR

Wella Professionals ushers in a new era of botanical-powered professional colour.

The modern colour client is evolving, and transparency, ingredient awareness and meaningful salon experiences are becoming just as important as the final colour result. Responding to this shift, Wella Professionals has introduced Supernatural Color –a professional colouring system which strengthens and repairs the hair using the power of tannins.

WHERE SCIENCE MEETS BOTANICALS

Supernatural Color harnesses the power of tannins –these are naturally occurring acids found in plants that help protect and strengthen their structure.

Key components of SupernaturalColor include:

• Tannin-rich botanicals derived from dried and powdered Cassia, Henna and Indigo leaves.

• Vegan colour boosters designed to deliver consistent results and a wide colour range, including cool and matte shades.

• Natural-origin texturisers, including a corn-derived sugar used in a patented granule system.

• Guar Bean powder, which creates a smooth, creamy consistency when mixed with warm water.

The result is a powder-granule colour system that activates when dissolved in 70°C warmwater, releasing tannins ready to penetrate inside the hair and bind to keratin fibres, improving hair structure.

AT YOUR SERVICE

One of the long-standing challenges with botanical colour systems has been the limited shade range. Supernatural Color addresses this by offering 16 intermixable shades, giving colourists the flexibility to create a wide spectrum of results, including sought-after cool and matte tones.

Supernatural Color is designed to integrate into a variety of colour services, including:

• Signature colour services that colour while helping strengthen and repair the hair.

• Grey blending services, including a pre-pigmentation step for coverage of up to 100% grey hair.

• Blonde toning, where the system can be used after lightening services to tone and strengthen in one step.

A MOMENT TO RELAX

Beyond formulation, the concept behind Supernatural Color also reflects the growing importance of experience-led services.

The preparation process itself becomes part of the client journey. Mixing the colour granules with warm water in front of the client releases a subtle natural aroma, and the warm application delivers a soothing sensation. The result? A colour appointment that turns into a moment of relaxation and wellbeing.

In an industry built on connection, sisters working side by side bring more than technical skill; they bring a bond that clients can feel the moment they sit in the chair. This feature explores the unique dynamic of three sets of sisters in hairdressing, where business is built not just on talent, but on loyalty, laughter and lifelong knowing.

sister act

SHEREE GOUGH AND ZOËREES

How did your journey into hairdressing begin?

Sheree: Our journeys actually began on very different paths. One of us went straight into hairdressing from school, while the other trained as an accountant before realising her heart had always been in hair. What started as two separate careers slowly began to intertwine. The moment we realised we wanted to work together wasn’t a big, dramatic decision; it happened naturally. We found ourselves collaborating on weddings, and we noticed that something really special happened when we combined our strengths. That’s when it clicked: together, we are better.

How would you describe each other’s hairdressing styles, and how do they complement one another?

Zoë: Sheree’s style is rooted in creativity – polished, modern and empowering – with a strong focus on bridal and editorial hair. I bring a more holistic and thoughtful approach, with styles that feel natural, conscious and deeply client focused.

Is it all teamwork in the salon?

What’s it like mixing family and business?

Zoë: Being sisters brings a deep level of trust, honesty and understanding that you simply can’t manufacture in business. As twins, our bond is built on respect; we can look at each other and know we’ve always got each other’s backs. The positives far outweigh the challenges.

Sheree: Yes, there’s no ego between us. If one shines, we both shine. We genuinely want the best for each other, and that energy flows through the salon, onto wedding mornings and into every space we work in.

How do you switch off from work when you’re also sisters outside the salon?

Zoë: We’re big fans of girly holidays, and this year we’re heading to Reims in France to indulge in our shared love of champagne! Making time for fun keeps our relationship healthy and grounded.

KELLY CUMMINGS AND SALLY ROUX INSPIRE HAIR AND BEAUTY

How did your journey into hairdressing begin?

Kelly: We come from a long line of hairdressers –our grandmother owned three salons and our mum worked for her. I only got into hairdressing because mum wanted me to get a job and our nan convinced me to try an apprenticeship. At first, I took it just to keep them happy, but when I was offered a job in a bank a couple of months later, I realised I was enjoying hairdressing so much that I stayed.

Sally: I took a different route, starting out in catering and completing a specialist chef course. After four years of long hours and missing home life, I decided to change careers. I thought, ‘If Kelly can do it, so can I,’ so I applied for an apprenticeship at the salon where she worked.

Kelly: When our grandmother passed away, our parents used her inheritance to help us open our own salon, and that’s how Inspire was born.

Do you have clearly defined roles in the salon?

Kelly: Yes, very clear! Sally handles admin and technology and I manage the staff and wages. The big decisions are made together, and if we can’t agree, Mum gets the final say.

Is there ever any sisterly competition?

Sally: Of course - otherwise it wouldn’t be as fun!

How do you switch off from work when you’re also sisters outside the salon?

Sally: That’s a hard one! I don’t think you ever really switch off. We come from a family where everyone runs businesses in different professions, and when we get together, we tend to talk about work – whether it’s struggles or successes. It’s how we support each other and share ideas to help improve things.

Kelly: Sally and I once went on a family holiday for our brother’s wedding, during which we weren’t allowed to talk about work. We lasted five days out of the two weeks!

What advice would you give to other siblings thinking about going into business together?

Sally: Your sibling should be your biggest asset; blood really is thicker than water. Your sibling should support you, look out for you and let you be yourself without judgment.

SAMANTHA JONES AND JOANNA SOUTHWARD PLUSH

How did your journey into hairdressing begin?

Jo: There are two and a half years between us, so when Sam started her hairdressing apprenticeship, I followed her in as the Saturday girl. I loved it immediately and spent as much time as possible practising and learning. We both left school with strong skills, and were soon running our own columns. We never sat down and decided we had to work together! I’m sure Sam wasn’t thrilled about her little sister muscling in on her territory, but we were both ambitious. Before long, Sam was the manager, and I was her assistant.

experienced extreme hair loss following weight loss surgery, and I’ve dealt with ongoing thinning due to PCOS. Going through that ourselves aligned our goals as a business in a very real way.

Have there been any sister disagreements, and how do you resolve them?

Has being sisters made it easier, harder or both?

Sam: Honestly, it’s both. It can be hard, but we learnt to be professional and leave sisterly squabbles at the door. In many ways, it’s actually made us respect each other more.

Jo: It’s made us incredibly open and honest with each other too. Neither of us is afraid to call each other out... which is probably both a blessing and a curse!

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt from working together?

Jo: Not to take each other for granted and to always communicate. We’ve also learnt just how deeply personal hair really is. Sam

Jo: We’ve never had a full-blown argument, but we definitely have different tastes. When we rebranded and moved into our new salon, we disagreed on certain colours and design choices, but compromised. The end result is something we are both incredibly proud of. Sometimes I need reigning in – and Sam is very good at that!

What advice would you give to other siblings thinking about going into business together?

Sam: It’s bloody hard work and takes real ambition. You have to be prepared to prop each other up when things are tough. There will be moments when you question everything, but if you’re willing to play the long game, communicate honestly and grow together, it can be incredibly powerful.

CERI CUSHEN X CATHERINE THOMAS THEY SAY NEVER MEET YOUR HEROES. WE SAY: DO.

MY HAIR HERO IS A REGULAR PRO HAIR FEATURE THAT BRINGS TOGETHER TWO WORLDS OF HAIRDRESSING TALENT FOR ONE HONEST, UNFILTERED CONVERSATION. IN EACH ISSUE, WE INVITE SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE HAIRDRESSING FACES TO SIT DOWN WITH THE INDIVIDUAL WHO HAS SHAPED THEIR CREATIVE JOURNEY FOR A CONVERSATION THEY’VE WAITED THEIR WHOLE CAREER TO HAVE... AND GUESS WHAT? WE GOT EXCLUSIVE ACCESS!

Catherine: When did you know you wanted a career in hair?

Ceri: I didn’t really know, it sort of crept up on me! I actually did a law degree and didn’t start hairdressing until I was 25. At uni, I started doing people’s hair – colouring, braids, dreadlocks, whatever! –and I just sort of fell into it. I didn’t grow up wanting to be a hairdresser at all; I grew up in the countryside in South Wales, so my world of creativity and fashion was really small. It wasn’t until I went to Cardiff that everything opened up. I’d never experienced city life before.

With law, you do three years, then work in a practice before your final year. After that placement, I just knew it wasn’t what I wanted. So, I went home and said to my parents, “I’m not doing law – I’m going to do hair.” You can imagine their faces! I taught myself extensions and wigs, and I blagged my first job in Bristol as a hair extensionist. It all just went from there really. I did everything backwards – extensions first, then session work, shows, shoots and eventually moving to London. About ten years later, I met Robert (Masciave) through mutual friends, started working with him on shows and then ended up in his salon, Metropolis.

Catherine: Can you describe your training and professional experience?

Ceri: I don’t actually have any formal college training –I learnt on the job. I was 25, fresh out of a law degree, and I didn’t want to sit in college with 16-year-olds. It just wasn’t for me! I learnt my trade with Robert, and without him I wouldn’t have a career. I had the eye – I always knew what looked good and what didn’t – but I didn’t have the skills to execute it.

I joined the salon 18 years ago, and it was terrifying. Robert said I was the perfect guinea pig because I knew how to handle hair from years of session work, but I couldn’t cut a bob or a pixie. He said, let’s see how fast I can teach you using my methods. Within four to six weeks, I was cutting on the floor. His system works!

Then I went to Barcelona for a Revlon colour course, and both colour directors at the salon went off to have babies at the same time. I was thrown in at the deep end and learnt very quickly. When they came back, about 90% of their clients stayed with me.

So no, I did not do the formal college route. But was I still exposed to ongoing education, colour theory and constant learning? Absolutely! I just took a very unconventional path.

Catherine: There’s still a negative perception about hairdressers sometimes, isn’t there?

Ceri: Definitely. That whole idea that hairdressers didn’t succeed at school. In

I came across Ceri through Revlon Professional education, and I’ve always seen her as a bit of a maverick! I knew she was a true colour queen, but her unconventional route into hairdressing makes her story even more fascinating. I couldn’t wait to meet her and hear how she’s built such an inspiring career.

reality, you end up being a therapist, an expert in body language and someone who has to find common ground with every single person who sits in your chair. That’s hard. I’m actually very introverted; I was shy as a kid and I like my own space. Hairdressing takes you out of your comfort zone every day, and honestly, it can be exhausting.

Catherine: What do you enjoy most about your job?

Ceri: In the salon, it’s watching someone walk out feeling confident. You give them a cut or colour, and you can see it instantly – they feel amazing. That’s addictive. Hair is so underrated. It’s three-quarters of your face, and when it’s not right, or when someone loses their hair through illness, it’s devastating. You’re changing how the world sees that person, and how they present themselves to the world.

Outside the salon, the opportunities are endless – travel, fashion shows, session work, education, trichology. I honestly don’t understand when people say they’re bored of hairdressing! How can you be bored?!

Catherine: I’m about to do my first photographic collection. What advice would you give me?

Ceri: Decide what you want to do and don’t look too much at other hairdressers. You end up copying things without even realising. Look elsewhere – fashion, nature, architecture, whatever! Hair inspiration is everywhere. Practise your styles relentlessly at home and photograph them.

One of the best tips I ever learnt is to use your camera as a mirror. Walk around the model and look at the hair through your phone, and you’ll realise how the camera shows things your eye doesn’t see. What looks good in real life doesn’t always translate on camera. Even when you think you’re finished, look again through the lens. That’s probably my biggest tip.

Catherine: Things are tough right now as a salon owner. Do you have any advice for keeping a salon alive?

Ceri: It’s tricky. We’re lucky in Surbiton – it’s a very affluent area – but even so, people are watching their spending. The key word for me is

Ceri was warm, honest and incredibly generous with her advice, especially about the realities of running a salon today. Meeting her only reinforced why she remains such a genuine inspiration.

consistency. Inconsistency kills salons, so find your niche and be consistent. Remember, every client has long-term value. It’s not just one £100 appointment – it could be highlights every six to eight weeks for 20 years. Build strong relationships and make yourself the only place they want to go. Don’t get dragged into discounting; it devalues your time. Instead, work with clients intelligently. Maybe it’s a partial highlight instead of a full-head, or maybe it’s alternating services or introducing them to a well-trained junior for certain appointments so they stay within the salon ecosystem. Once a client breaks the habit of coming in, you’ve probably lost them.

Catherine: I hate discount culture... it feels pointless!

Ceri: Exactly. We do loyalty rather than discounts. Discounting is a false economy. You don’t build loyal clients that way; you just attract people who’ll move on to the next deal.

Catherine: You, Robert and the Metropolis team clearly have a great dynamic. What’s the secret?

Ceri: Recruitment and kindness. Robert is brilliant at reading people’s characters. There’s no drama. We do interviews, trials and two-week placements – it has to feel right both ways. In 18 years, I’ve never heard one team member criticise another. Clients comment on it all the time! Staff disharmony will kill a business faster than anything; people just need to be respectful and kind.

Catherine: Final question – what do you do outside of work?

Ceri: I’m in the gym or outdoors most of the time. I love hiking and I love dogs – I actually volunteer at a greyhound rescue sanctuary now. I like fashion, films and a bit of painting. I’m not a party person; I’m happiest in bed by 9pm. I’m quite boring really!

The Design Edit.

HOUSED IN AN OLD RAILWAY STATION, THE STATION HAIR AND BEAUTY IS A CHARMING INDEPENDENT SALON LOCATED IN MISTLEY, ESSEX.

How would you describe the design of your salon?

As we are a Grade II listed railway station that was built in 1854, our design certainly took a lot of thinking! Overall, The Station Hair and Beauty has been designed to reflect a modern, professional and welcoming space that makes every client feel comfortable and valued. Our salon combines contemporary styling with warm, inviting touches, creating an environment that feels both stylish and relaxing.

Have you chosen a particular colour scheme?

We have carefully chosen a clean, neutral colour palette to create a calm and luxurious atmosphere, while still maintaining a friendly and approachable feel to reflect our local community.

What is the atmosphere like inside of the salon?

The salon’s layout allows our team to work efficiently, while still keeping a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere. Each styling station is thoughtfully positioned to provide clients with their own personal space, ensuring comfort, privacy and a high-quality experience. The lighting throughout the salon has also been selected to support precision hair and beauty work, creating a soft, flattering environment for clients.

Salon Furniture? Italian.

Product brand? Davines.

Software? Fresha.

Other services offered? Beauty.

Number of stations? Six.

“Our salon combines contemporary styling with warm, inviting touches.”

How have you embraced sustainability within your design? As a Davines salon, we have embraced sustainability hugely. We also belong to the Green Salon Collective, so all of our waste is recycled in the most sustainable way possible.

Do you have a dress code for your team?

No, we don’t have a particular dress code. We feel every team member is an individual and should be able to express themselves.

What’s the reason you fell in love with hairdressing?

I loved that it was creative, but also very human. You’re not just making something look beautiful; you’re making someone feel better about themselves. That combination of craft, connection and transformation hooked me from the beginning.

What’s the most treasured item in your kitbag?

My scissors, without question. They’re an extension of your hands as a hairdresser. Once you find the right pair and break them in, they carry years of muscle memory and experience.

What’s the most memorable moment in your career so far?

Working with people I grew up admiring has been surreal.

Seeing your work in magazines, campaigns and on red carpets never really loses its magic, and seeing someone copy a haircut or style you created on a celebrity out in the real world never gets old either.

WHAT’S..?

Pete Burkill

on Love Story, Laksa and Givenchy Dog Leads

What’s your go-to hair product right now?

I’m loving Goldwell StyleSign Volume Bodifying Brilliance

Mousseat the moment. I think all hair should have a bit of volume in it, and mousse is one of the easiest ways to build that foundation without the hair feeling heavy or overstyled.

What’s your favourite look you have created?

I always love creating hair that looks expensive but effortless. Soft movement, healthy shine and shape that feels natural rather than overworked. When someone looks like the best version of themselves, that’s when I’m happiest with the result.

What’s the last thing you bought?

The last thing I bought was a Givenchy lead in a sample sale in New York for my dog, Patsy. It was a steal, and she looks a million dollars in it.

What’s your go-to takeaway order?

My order changes a lot, but at the minute I’m completely addicted to Laksa! It’s rich, comforting and perfect after a long day.

What’s your drink of choice at the bar?

An extra-dirty, extra-cold vodka martini. My order’s a bit long and complicated, but it’s worth it!

What’s your top binge-watch recommendation?

I love anything Ryan Murphy does. I’m really into Love Story and American Horror Story. They’re so easy to watch and everyone always looks incredible – the hair, the fashion, the whole world of it.

What’s your go-to karaoke song?

I’ve got Kate Bush’s Wuthering Heights completely embedded in my brain at the minute, so it would probably have to be that. Whether anyone else in the room would appreciate that performance is another question...!