In the ever-evolving world of fashion and personal grooming, staying ahead of the curve is essential for hairstylists and barbers. As trends and techniques continue to evolve, professionals in this industry must recognize the significance of continuing education. By investing in ongoing learning opportunities, hair professionals can enhance their skills, expand their knowledge base, and ultimately thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

Mastering New Techniques:

Continuing education equips hairstylists and barbers with the latest techniques and trends in hair cutting, styling, coloring, and grooming. By attending workshops, trade shows, seminars, or pursuing advanced courses, professionals can learn innovative methods, get introduced to new tools and sharpen their skills. These new techniques allow them to offer a wider range of services to their clients, keeping up with the demands of a diverse clientele. Embracing new cutting-edge methods can transform a hairstylist or barber into a trendsetter within their community.

Keeping Pace with Changing Trends:

Fashion and style trends change rapidly, and what is considered "in" today may be outdated tomorrow. By engaging in continuing education, hairstylists and barbers remain current with the latest trends, ensuring their clients receive up-to-the-minute styles. Learning about emerging hairstyles, color palettes, and grooming preferences empowers professionals to provide personalized recommendations and create looks that align with their clients' preferences. Being on top of trends positions hairstylists and barbers as trusted advisors in the realm of style.

Expanding Product Knowledge:

Continuing education also plays a vital role in expanding hair professionals' understanding of the products they use. With the constant introduction of new hair care and styling products, staying informed is crucial. Through continuing education, professionals gain insights into the latest products, their ingredients, and their effects on different hair types. Currently, the biggest trend is non-toxic hair care and environmentally friendly products. By getting informed, professionals can offer healthy hair care as well as help the environment. New tools are also being developed all the time which could help achieve desired results. Armed with this knowledge, hairstylists and barbers can recommend the most suitable products to their clients, ensuring optimal hair health and styling results.

Building Professional Credibility:

Clients today are discerning and well-informed, often seeking services from stylists and barbers who demonstrate expertise and credibility. By investing in continuing education, professionals showcase their commitment to their craft and their dedication to staying at the forefront of the industry. This dedication not only instills confidence in clients but also sets hairstylists and barbers apart from their competitors. Building a reputation as an educated and skilled professional can lead to increased client retention, referrals, and ultimately, business success.

Networking and Collaboration:

Continuing education opportunities often bring together professionals from different backgrounds and experiences. These events provide hairstylists and barbers with invaluable networking opportunities, allowing them to connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders. Engaging in such collaborations fosters creativity, knowledge-sharing, and personal growth. By forming professional relationships with others in the field, hairstylists and barbers gain access to a broader network of resources, support, and potential career opportunities. In an industry as dynamic as hairstyling and barbering, continuing education is vital for staying relevant, knowledgeable, and successful. By actively seeking opportunities to learn and grow, professionals can master new techniques, keep pace with changing trends, expand product knowledge, and build their professional credibility. Moreover, continuing education fosters networking and collaboration, allowing hairstylists and barbers to form connections and gain inspiration from their peers. By embracing ongoing learning, hairstylists and barbers position themselves at the cutting edge of their craft, ensuring their clients receive top-notch services and unmatched style expertise.

Apps and software have become valuable tools for hairstylists and barbers, enabling them to streamline their work processes, enhance client experiences and stay organized. Gotta love technology! Leverage today’s technology to stay on the cutting edge of the hair industry and increase productivity. Here are some of the popular apps and software used in the hair profession.   Salon Management Software: These comprehensive platforms provide a range of features to manage the day-to-day operations of a salon or barbershop. They typically include appointment scheduling, client management, staff scheduling, inventory management, and financial tracking. Some popular salon management software options include Mindbody, Booker, and Salon Iris.   Appointment Booking Apps: These apps allow hairstylists and barbers to manage their appointment schedules more efficiently. Clients can book appointments online, select specific services, and even choose their preferred stylist or barber. These apps often send reminders to clients, reducing no-shows and missed appointments. Examples of popular appointment booking apps include Square Appointments, Booksy, and Schedulicity.   Virtual Hairstyling Apps: Virtual hairstyling apps use augmented reality (AR) technology to allow clients to try out different hairstyles and colors virtually. These apps typically use the client's uploaded photo and offer a range of virtual hairstyles to visualize the desired look. Some apps even provide hairstyling tips and product recommendations. Popular virtual hairstyling apps include Perfect365, YouCam Makeup, and Taaz.   Education and Inspiration Apps: These apps offer hairstylists and barbers access to educational resources, tutorials, and inspiration for new techniques and trends. They provide step-by-step guides, videos, and articles on various hairstyling techniques, cutting methods, and coloring processes. Examples of such apps include Hairbrained, SalonCentric, Behind The Chair and JATAI Academy.   Social Media Apps: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook play a significant role in the hair profession. Hairstylists and barbers utilize these apps to showcase their work, build their portfolio, engage with clients, network with other hair professionals and attract a larger audience. By sharing their creations, before-and-after transformations, and styling tips, professionals can promote their skills and connect with potential clients. It’s also a great way to connect with brands that you like or get exposed to new brands and products.   Hair Color Matching Apps: These apps assist hairstylists and colorists in finding the perfect hair color match for their clients. By utilizing the client's photo or inputting details like skin tone and eye color, these apps recommend suitable hair color shades. This helps professionals provide accurate and personalized recommendations to their clients.   Productivity and Communication Apps: These apps help hairstylists and barbers stay organized, communicate with clients, and collaborate with their teams. They offer features like task management, note-taking, team chat, and file sharing. Examples include Slack, Trello, and Evernote.   It's important to note that hairstylists and barbers may use a combination of these apps and software depending on their specific needs and preferences. Each tool serves a unique purpose, from managing appointments and inventory to providing virtual styling options and educational resources. By leveraging these apps and software, hair professionals can optimize their workflow, enhance their creativity, and provide an elevated experience for their clients.

In the competitive world of haircutting, building a loyal client base is crucial for long-term success and career growth. While acquiring new clients is important, retaining existing ones is equally vital. A loyal client base not only provides stability but also acts as a valuable source of referrals and positive word-of-mouth. Here are some effective strategies for hair professionals to build and maintain a loyal client base.   Provide Outstanding Customer Service: Exceptional customer service is the foundation of building loyalty. Create a welcoming and friendly environment for your clients, greet them with a smile, and actively listen to their needs and preferences. Take the time to understand their desired hairstyle and provide honest expert advice. Show genuine interest in their lives, engage in friendly conversations, and remember personal details for future visits. A personalized experience goes a long way in building trust and loyalty.   Consistency and Quality: Consistency is key to establishing trust and loyalty with clients. Strive for excellence in every haircut or hairstyle you deliver. Pay meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that each client leaves feeling satisfied and confident. Keep up with the latest trends, techniques, and products in the industry to provide the best service possible. By consistently delivering high-quality results, you will earn a reputation as a skilled hairstylist or barber, attracting clients who appreciate your expertise.   Build Relationships: Building relationships with your clients is crucial for fostering loyalty. Take the time to understand their personal style, preferences, and lifestyle. By developing a deeper understanding of their needs, you can tailor your services to meet their expectations. Remembering their favorite haircuts, styles, or products shows that you value their business. Additionally, consider implementing a loyalty program or offering special promotions to reward their continued support.   Effective Communication: Clear and effective communication is vital in any client relationship. Make sure you understand your clients' expectations before starting any service. Engage in open and honest conversations to manage their expectations and provide realistic outcomes. Be transparent about pricing, timings, and any potential limitations. Additionally, encourage feedback and actively listen to any concerns or suggestions. Addressing issues promptly and professionally demonstrates your commitment to client satisfaction.   Utilize Social Media and Online Presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is essential for attracting and retaining clients. Create an engaging website or social media profiles where you can showcase your skills, share before-and-after pictures, and receive client reviews. Regularly update your online platforms with fresh content, including hairstyle inspiration, styling tips, and industry trends. Encourage clients to share their experiences and tag your salon or barbershop, leveraging the power of social proof to attract new clients.   Stay Connected: Maintain regular contact with your clients to stay top of mind and nurture the relationship. Send personalized emails or messages to inform them about upcoming promotions, new services, or changes in your schedule. Consider creating a newsletter to share hair care tips, seasonal trends, or exclusive offers. Additionally, use technology to your advantage by implementing online booking systems or appointment reminders to enhance convenience and streamline communication.   Building a loyal client base for hairstylists and barbers requires a combination of exceptional customer service, consistent quality, relationship building, effective communication, and a strong online presence. By implementing these strategies, you can create an environment that fosters loyalty, resulting in long-term client relationships, positive referrals, and continued success in your hairstyling or barbering career. Remember, building loyalty takes time and effort, but the rewards are invaluable for your professional growth and reputation.

We’ve been hearing it in the news and all around us: we’re in for a recession. While the beauty industry tends to be more recession proof than other industries it doesn’t mean it can’t experience a slowdown. During slow economic times, it can be challenging for stylists and barbers to maintain and grow their business. However, there are several strategies that can be implemented to help increase business even during difficult times. Here are some tips...

Promotions and specials:

Offering promotions and discounts can help attract new clients and incentivize existing clients to return. For example, offering a discounted service, "refer a friend" promotion or offering something for free with a service can be effective. Giving more value to your existing clients and promoting them to new clients can help stir up new business.

Expand services:

Consider adding new services to your menu to attract new clients. Ask clients what new services they would like to see to give you ideas. Research and review other hair professional’s websites and see what services they offer or come up with a completely new one on your own. Pay attention to trends in haircuts, tools and techniques that could potentially create a profitable new service for you.

Offer packages or memberships:

Consider offering packages or memberships that provide clients with a discount or a set number of services for a discounted rate. This can help encourage clients to book more services and create more consistency in your business. Perhaps provide a stamp card where their 10^th haircut with you is discounted or they get a free gift. Offering incentives can be effective in client retention. Memberships can attract those who like to be a part of something exclusive. Memberships usually involve a fee of some sort with a number of benefits that non-members are not privy to. But there needs to be some decent value to the benefits to just the fee.

Use social media:

Social media is a powerful tool to attract new clients and promote your services. Utilize platforms such as Instagram and TikTok to showcase your work, share promotions and specials, and engage with potential clients. It can also attract clients who are not in your local vicinity. Some clients become so attached to their stylist or barber that they will travel far to get serviced by them. Social media can give a stylist or barber a certain status that makes them more attractive to people. It’s also a way to showcase what you can do which gives existing and potential new clients ideas of what you can do with their hair.

Partner with other businesses:

Partnering with other businesses in the beauty industry, such as nail salons or makeup artists, can help expand your reach and attract new clients. Partnerships could include a bundle package that offers services from both businesses at a discount. It could also be based on referrals. Get creative with different offerings. This could be particularly useful during special occasions such as weddings, prom, graduation, holidays, anniversaries or birthday events.

Improve customer experience:

Providing exceptional customer service can help increase client loyalty and attract new business through word-of-mouth referrals. Being available to clients by responding to messages and answering phone calls can make a difference in how clients perceive you and your business. Even having a seamless online booking experience where you never physically talk to the customer is considered a part of customer service. Make sure you go through the experience yourself to see if there are any flaws in the booking process. The same goes for cancelling an appointment. It should be easy and frustration-free.

Attend industry events:

Attend industry events, such as trade shows and conferences, to network with other professionals and learn about new trends and techniques. This not only improve your professional skills but can give ideas for new services, help streamline your business, pick up on new trends or create new partnerships. These are also great opportunities to upgrade the tools and products you use to service your clients which are usually available at a discounted price.

Consider mobile or home-based services:

If your salon or barbershop is experiencing slow business, consider offering mobile or home-based services to attract new clients who prefer to receive services in the comfort of their own homes. Some people have difficultly leaving their home or are willing to pay top dollar for an at-home service. Traveling to the client is not always feasible but it could be an option for someone with a more flexible schedule. However, when doing so, take into consideration travel time and gas costs when determining service prices. These are just some ideas for how to stir up business during slower economic times, but there are so many more. By implementing these strategies or coming up with your own, stylists and barbers can increase business during slow economic times and build a loyal client base for long-term success.

We all make mistakes. Whether it’s in our personal lives or in the workplace, mistakes happen, but it’s important to learn from them, grow and improve ourselves so we can be better and do better. As a hair professional, there are many common mistakes that occur. But by paying attention to these areas you can avoid them in the first place. Let’s review some of these.  

Not Listening to the Client:

One of the most common mistakes that hairstylists and barbers make is not listening to what the client wants. Often, the client will have a specific style or look in mind, and the stylist or barber may not pay enough attention to the details the client is requesting. To avoid this mistake, make sure to listen carefully to what the client wants and ask clarifying questions if necessary. The consultation is the perfect opportunity to gain the most clarity. Don’t ask questions that will result in a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer. Ask open ended questions. Then, repeat back to them what you believe they said by paraphrasing. Show them exactly how much hair will be cut by indicating it on their own hair. Using visuals to explain wants and desires is very helpful to make sure you and the client are on the same page.  

Using the Wrong Products or Techniques:

Another common mistake that hairstylists and barbers make is using the wrong tools or techniques for the client's hair type or desired style. For example, using tools with dull blades can leave hair frayed, using the wrong shampoo can causes curly hair to frizz or using the incorrect developer volume when doing color processing. To avoid this mistake, make sure to use the appropriate products and techniques for each client, taking into account the hair quality, texture and density. Keep up with your education and learn from professionals you trust. Test out products before you use them on clients and make sure you have a good understanding of them before you start using them in the workplace. Don’t take shortcuts which can save you time and money in the short term but hurt you in the long term.  

Cutting Too Much Hair:

Cutting too much hair is another common mistake that hairstylists and barbers make. This can happen when the stylist or barber is not paying enough attention or is rushing through the haircut. To avoid this mistake, take your time and cut small sections at a time. Make sure to check in with the client regularly to ensure that they are happy with the length of the cut. This also goes back to the consultation. During the consultation show the client how much will be cut so they aren’t surprised. Also, cutting wet hair leads to shrinkage. Take into account the shrinkage factor when cutting to avoid cutting off too much length. In the end, it’s better to under cut than to over cut as you can always take more off but you can’t put it back on.  

Uneven Haircuts:

Uneven haircuts are another common. This can happen when the stylist or barber is not paying attention to the angles and lines of the haircut. To avoid this mistake, use a mirror to check for any uneven sections and make any necessary adjustments. Throughout the haircut, make it a habit to continuously check your work to make sure it’s even. Be sure to also keep an eye on the angle of the client’s head to avoid unnecessary unevenness.  

Poor Communication:

This can happen when the stylist or barber does not explain the process or the products they are using to the client. To avoid this mistake, make sure to communicate clearly with the client throughout the haircut and explain what you are doing and why. While the consultation is important, this only happens at the beginning of the haircut. Throughout the haircut, you should check in with our client to make sure you are on the right path. Explain to the client the products you are using in the hair and why.  

Staying in Your Comfort Zone:

While it’s easy and comforting to only do what you know, it is stifling to your career to stay in your comfort zone for too long. You might know you’re in this zone if you treat all hair the same and do the same haircuts repeatedly, haven’t attended a class to further your education, haven’t experimented with new tools or products in a while or feel you are not being challenged. It’s important to not make mistakes on your clients, but it’s also important to grow and expand your skillsets. Invest in yourself and you might find something that really excites you or takes your haircuts to a new level. It’s ok to be in your comfort zone, but don’t stay there for too long. Always challenge yourself.   These common hair mistakes are easy to fall into. We’re all a work in progress, but the keyword is progress. To progress we need to learn from the mistakes. Making mistakes is ok, but when you make them repeatedly and don’t learn from them, they can lead to bigger problems. Don’t let these mistakes ruin your career or your confidence. We’re rooting for you!

If you’re thinking about opening a hair salon or barbershop, it’s a good idea to understand the challenges and rewards of owning one. Whether you’re a hair professional who wants to build your business and expand your career or an individual who is looking to invest and start one as a business venture, there are many things to consider. Let’s look at some of the challenges and rewards that come with owning a hair salon or barbershop.  

CHALLENGES

Competition:

Hair salons and barbershops are popular businesses, and there is a lot of competition in the industry. It can be challenging to stand out from the crowd and attract customers. Different ways to do this are creating a decorative theme to the place. Perhaps you want to give it a retro look or a modern, clean look. The look and feel of the place will attract a certain type of customer and can also set the expectation for the types of services offered as well as price points. You can also stand out by offering unique services. For example, Dry Bar is not your typical hair salon. They specialize in hair styling and don’t do any cutting. Their unique position in the market gives them little competition. You might decide to have a location specializing in short haircuts, color processing or exclusive shaving experiences. By specializing in one area and getting really good at it, you salon or shop can generally charge more for the service.  

Staffing:

Finding and retaining talented stylists and barbers can be a challenge. The turnover rate in the industry can be high, and it can be difficult to find reliable employees. While sometimes it cannot be helped, there are different things that can be done to improve retention rate. Keeping a positive and healthy environment, having clear and appropriate practices and providing fair station fees can all promote staff happiness. It’s important to get stylist and barber feedback so you can make improvements when needed.  

Keeping up with trends:

The hair and beauty industry is constantly evolving, and it can be challenging to keep up with the latest trends, techniques, and products. This means staying in tune with the pulse of the industry which could mean attending shows, reading industry magazines and monitoring social media for what’s new. These trends, techniques and products could lead to new services offered, a more streamlined way of doing business or a healthier way to provide a service. If they are in demand, it could bring more business to the salon or barbershop.  

Managing finances:

Running a successful salon or barbershop requires careful financial management. Owners must balance expenses such as rent, utilities, and supplies with revenue from services and retail sales. This is very important and is the backbone to its sustainability. Having an organized way of detailing out the costs and revenue can determine what areas costing too much and what areas are generating higher profits.  

REWARDS

Creative expression:

Hair styling and grooming are creative professions, and owning a salon or barbershop allows owners to express their creativity and work with clients to achieve their desired look. By having a salon or barbershop you not only get to be creative with your client’s hair but also get to be creative with the look and feel of the environment. You can be creative with the décor, the name and build a larger brand.  

Building relationships:

Salons and barbershops are often social spaces where clients come to relax and chat with their stylist or barber. Owners can build lasting relationships with their clients and create a welcoming and friendly environment. They also have a greater opportunity to build relationships with other hair professionals, retail brands, business professionals and more. The circle of relationships will expand.  

Flexible schedule:

While owning a salon or barbershop requires hard work and dedication, it also allows for some flexibility in scheduling. Owners can set their own hours and manage their time to balance work and personal life.  

Financial independence:

Owning a successful salon or barbershop can provide financial stability and independence. Owners have the potential to earn a good income and build a profitable business that can support their lifestyle and future goals. It can bring in more revenue and monetary gain if done right.   Of course, there are other challenges and rewards for owning a salon or barbershop but these are important ones. If you’re still inclined, a good recommendation is to speak to actual salon and shop owners and get their take. They have invaluable experience and knowledge which could open your eyes to aspects of ownership you didn’t anticipate. It’s important to do your due diligence before jumping in so you know what you’re getting yourself into. Good luck!

Lawsuits happen all the time and hair professionals are not immune to them. Some of the most common filed lawsuits are related to physical injury such as scalp or eye injuries, cuts and burns or slipping and falling. Other lawsuits could revolve around emotional damage, damaged personal items such as clothing or stolen property. While lawsuits do happen, they can be prevented by following these important steps.  

• First and foremost, obtain proper training and licensing. While this may seem like common sense, there are people out there who are cutting hair without their license or performing services without proper certification. Hair professionals should ensure they have the appropriate training and licensing required in their state or region in which they are doing business. This includes completing a cosmetology/barbering program, passing state exams, and obtaining any necessary permits or certifications. Having proper training also helps avoid critical mistakes when performing different services. Cutting corners always comes back to bite!

 

• Maintain good communication with clients. Communication is key to avoiding misunderstandings, clearing up assumptions and establishing expectations. Hair professionals should always communicate effectively with their clients. This includes discussing the desired results and potential risks or limitations of any services provided. Usually the most important communication comes into play during the consultation so both of you are on the same page.

 

• If warranted, obtain informed consent. Before providing any services, hairstylists and barbers should obtain informed consent from their clients. This means discussing the potential risks and benefits of the service, as well as any alternative options, and allowing the client to make an informed decision about their treatment.

 

• Use quality products and equipment. Hair professionals should use only high-quality, safe, and reliable products and equipment that are appropriate for the client's needs. Don’t skimp on products or equipment because it is cheap. Quality helps to reduce performance error and unexpected complications that are related to product or equipment use.

 

• Document all services and client interactions. Hairstylists should keep detailed records of all services provided, including client consultations, treatments, and any other relevant information. This can help protect the stylist in case of a dispute or legal action. But it also helps for their future visits. Perhaps there was something mentioned in the consultation such as an allergy or specific insight that could impact future services and recommendations. It’s best to be informed and reminded of such information.

 

• Have insurance. Hair professionals should always have liability insurance that covers them in case of a lawsuit. This can help protect them financially in case of any legal action. This is super important. Accidents happen and you can’t always prevent them all. Even with the best intentions, injuries and damage could ensue. Insurance gives that extra coverage you need for these instances.

 

• Stay up-to-date with industry standards and regulations. Hair professionals should stay informed about any changes in regulations or industry standards and ensure they are following all guidelines and best practices. As new styles become popular that may require special services or new innovative products appear on the market, it’s important to know and understand how your services and practice fit in. The industry is constantly evolving and changing so it’s important to stay up to date.

  By following these steps, hair professionals can help protect themselves from potential lawsuits and ensure they are providing high-quality services to their clients.

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Month, a time to celebrate and recognize Asian American and Pacific Islander contributions. As a small business started and currently run by Asian Americans, JATAI holds this recognition close to our heart. What started as a small dream by Fred Wada, the founder of JATAI, it has turned into a recognized company in the beauty space primarily known for their haircutting and shaving razors. Not only do Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders start and grow businesses, but they also make waves as a hairstylist or barber. In honor of AAPI Month, we would like to recognize some beauty professionals who have influenced the space and have made positive contributions to the industry.

 

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Sofie Pok If you’re a barber, or heck even a stylist, you probably know who Sofie is. She broke a lot of barriers in the barber industry being both a female and of Asian descent. Being mainly Cambodian and part Chinese and Vietnamese, Sofie quickly rose to the top earning the title of Barber of the Year and Men’s Shot of the Year at Behind the Chair in 2017. Residing in the Los Angeles area, she is easily recognized with her wealth of tattoos and funky hair. She always displays swagger and looks intimidating, but she’s sweet, kind, motivated and driven. She’s a natural born artist who is both a stylist and barber. While her road to success was filled with struggle and uncertainty, she found her niche with short haircuts. While many clients and barbers wouldn’t take her seriously because she was a female, she took to Instagram where she showcased her work and little by little her following grew. Her current ambition is growing STMNT Grooming Goods with fellow barbers Julius Cvesar and Miguel Gutierrez which launched in 2022.

 

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Julius Cvesar Also a barber, Julius grew up in the SF Bay area. He is of Filipino descent and a well-known barber in the industry. Also, covered in tattoos, Julius now resides in the Los Angeles area where he has built his platform in barbering. An artist at heart, he ventures into fashion, painting and runs a creative hub and gallery space. In barbering, his crisp design lines, color combinations and placement are creative and innovative. He takes appointments at All Hail Barbershop. Popular on Instagram he has also been on stage for Wahl and Layrite as he was a part of the Wahl Education and Artistic Team. There he specialized in clipper over comb, point cutting and heavy textures. His current project is working with fellow barbers Sofie Pok and Miguel Gutierrez on the STMNT Grooming Goods brands.

 

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Emily Chen Moving over to the hairstylist world, Emily Chen takes a spotlight. She is the owner of Brooks and Harlow Salon and teaches salon education…and she teaches a lot of it. Currently, she tours within her own salon but also across the country on a variety of different topics from color to haircutting. Based out of New York, Emily also cuts hair at her salon. She has built her following on Insta to 150k and almost 20k on TikTok. She is also present on YouTube and Twitter. Needless to say, she is everywhere teaching tips and tricks. She even won Color Video of the Year through the Hairbrained Video Awards with her 7-Hour Blonding Breakdown video. Wow…that must have been a lot of work!

 

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12Pell While not an individual person, 12Pell is a lifestyle brand run by Asian Americans. Dedicated to personal care and style, they cover all things grooming. Their goal is to build a community of like-minded people who are passionate about art and entrepreneurship. However, they have a huge focus on barbering and men’s haircuts. With a whooping 285k followers on IG and 1.8M followers on TikTok, they know how to generate social media attention. Their content focuses on a lot on hair education from the consultation to hair inspiration to styling tips. They’ve been recognized by ABC7, BBC, CBS, Yahoo, Business Insider and more. It would be safe to say that 12Pell has created the community they sought to build and then some.

 

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Angela Kim A special mention goes out to Angela Kim, a Los Angeles hairstylist who focuses on clean beauty and eco-conscious hairstyling. A second generation Korean American, Angela has been working in the industry for over 13 years. While she might not have a huge following on social media, her work is beautiful and she’s one to watch out for. A Feather Razor user, Angela is up and coming. She can do long or short hair and color. Her dedication to eco-friendly non-toxic hair services shows she’s dedicated to health and healthy beauty, something everyone can appreciate.

 

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Kaz Shimada Last but not least, Kaz Shimada is a Japanese American hairstylist. She is a proficient razor cutter, primarily using the Feather Plier Razor. So, she is definitely talented! Based out of Pasadena, CA, she co-owns MANE+CROWN salon. She’s a true artist with a beautiful portfolio. She has done commercial and red carpet work. Her work is gorgeous and she knows how to work the razor and her various tools to get fantastic looks.   There are many more AAAPI’s that were not mentioned here, but we wanted to highlight a few that have stood out to us. Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have come a long way. While they still don’t represent a huge percentage of hairstylists and barbers, the ones that have stuck around have done well for themselves and have broken barriers. Their contributions to the beauty industry are valuable and appreciated. We continue to encourage more AAPI’s to bring their creative talents to the hair world. Show us what you’ve got!

It’s Women’s History Month and what better way to celebrate than to appreciate the gains of women in the hair industry. There have been so many accomplishments pioneered by women over the years that today we take for granted. There are many more, but let’s look at 5 women who influenced the hair industry forever.  

Martha Matilda

Martha was the first female to develop an international franchise system called the Harper System. She patented her own line of hair care products and developed a unique system for washing and styling hair that became the foundation for her franchise business which ultimately became known as the salon. A Canadian, Martha immigrated to the United States at a young age but when she around 30 years old, she opened her first salon in 1888 and in time she would go on to open over 500 franchise locations. The innovation of the salon has had a resounding and lasting effect on the hair industry. Many of her innovations within the salon are still being used to this day as well. She invented reclining shampoo chairs, salon scalp massages and even offered childcare. The salons were open in the evenings and gave haircuts to both men and women. Martha also developed a hair tonic because she thought the current hair products on the market were doing more harm than good.  She used her own hair to advertise her product as her hair was so long it reached the floor. It was thick and healthy which was the greatest advertisement she could have. Her first franchisee started in Buffalo, NY and then later expanded to Chicago. Each salon was owned by a woman. Moreover, the first 100 shops went to poor women. Martha would go to each location and train the franchisees, inspect the salons and make sure that quality was up to par. Although most people have never heard of her, she is one of the most influential women in hair history.  

Madam C.J. Walker

Also an entrepreneur, Walker was an African American civil rights activist in the late 19^th and early 20^th century who developed a hair care line specifically for African American women. She saw a need for affordable and effective hair care solutions. She went door to door, conducted classes and training for African American women and became a successful business owner selling her product. Her philanthropy was also well-known. She supported education and developed the Madam C.J. Walker College for Hair Culture in Indianapolis to raise the standards of hair care, teaching how to care for hair and how to become a successful entrepreneur themselves. She became a highly successful woman of color against all odds and persevered to become one of the first female self-made millionaires in America. She made huge strides in the hair industry which only opened the doors for more women and women of color to join the beauty world.   [caption id="attachment_34789" align="alignright" width="400"] Bob Hairstyle[/caption]

Irene Castle

While not a businesswoman, Irene simply started the bob hairstyle. She was a famous ballroom dancer and actress and in 1915 she decided to cut her hair prior to a surgery. At the time it was not common for women to have their hair short so while she was recovering, she wore her hair in a turban. But her friend convinced her to wear it short in public. This short haircut was eventually named the ‘Castle Bob.’ The look was short hair with curls at the bottom. Because she was already famous, the hairstyle spread, and soon other celebrities and women wore their hair short too. While the bob hairstyle during this time was considered undesirable, it became a symbol of the women’s suffrage movement. Women wore shorter hair because it was more convenient, easier to manage when they were becoming more active and athletic. More women were rejecting common practices and politics. Instead, they were actively campaigning for their right to vote pushing for more rights and freedoms. So the bob became popular on accident. But it was bound to happen, and it couldn’t have happened at a more appropriate time.  

Audrey Hepburn and Jean Seberg

In the 1950’s, after the bob had been around for 35 years, famous celebrities like Audrey Hepburn and Jean Seberg popularized the pixie. Even shorter than the bob, it meant freedom, gender fluidity and nonconformity. It became completely accepted after the move Roman Holiday where Audrey Hepburn cuts off her own hair to symbolize new beginnings. Over time, the pixie has evolved to become even shorter and styled a variety of ways.   [caption id="attachment_34790" align="alignleft" width="300"] Hair weave[/caption]

Christina Jenkins

An African American woman named Christina Jenkins was the first to develop a hair weaving technique. This invention became so popular that she was invited to other countries to teach her technique. Prior to Christina’s method, hair was clipped onto the scalp, but they didn’t securely stay on the hair. Christina’s method involved an interweaving process that took hours to do but could be left for a few weeks. It worked by interlocking strands of real hair with supplemental hair which was tied together by a cord-like material. This method paved the way for new innovations in the weaving process. Today, there are not only sewn-in weaves but also clip-ins and tape-in weaves. The hair industry is filled with many inspiring, successful women. From centuries ago through today, we have seen the hair industry grow and evolve. New inventions, techniques, products and styles are constantly being developed. But today’s accomplishments and ideas could not have come without those prior. In honor of Women’s History Month, we hope you take the time to honor the women who have paved the way.

Not all hair professionals are equal. Some are all about the trendiest styles, some only do color, some focus on short haircuts while others specialize in updos. There are a variety of hairstylists and barbers that provide unique and fun experiences and then others that do your basic run of the mill styles. Whatever the case may be, there are certain characteristics that make clients fall in love with their hair professional that they come back repeatedly. What is this secret sauce? It’s not a secret at all but people often forget to pay attention to certain qualities that can make them go from good to great. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here are 7 reasons clients fall in love with their stylist or barber.

1) TECHNICAL ABILITY

The first and most obvious quality of a great hair professional is their technical ability. They have a thorough understanding of haircutting techniques, the tools of the trade and the science behind haircare. A great stylist or barber can cut hair with precision, symmetry and consistency producing a hairstyle that is both stylish and functional. They should also be proficient in a variety of cutting techniques using scissors, razors and clippers in order to cater to a wide range of clients. They should know how to use color properly and haircare product to achieve the best styling results. Technical ability can be seen through photos and video. Having great technical ability can be seen in the shape of the hair, the clean lines (or no lines), the symmetry of the haircut, the precision of the cutting and color of the hair (if color is involved).

2) CREATIVITY

While technical ability is more of a systematic skill, creativity is a human imagination skill. This is unique to every individual which makes creativity so fun and interpretive. It’s important for a stylist or barber to have creativity in this profession because they need to have an eye for style and the ability to translate the customer’s vision into a practical and stylish haircut. They should be able to draw inspiration from current fashion trends, classic hairstyles and their own imagination to create unique and personalized haircuts for each customer. This creative flair sets a great haircutter from a merely competent one, as it allows them to create haircuts that are not only functional but also stylish and memorable. Creativity is one of the most attractive qualities that initially captures a client. It’s what they see on Instagram or TikTok. It’s the way the images were captured that leave potential clients wanting it themselves. The way the hair is styled, the lighting and angles all express creativity and it makes the haircut more attractive.

3) COMMUNICATION SKILLS

Being able to communicate is underrated. Communication is the cornerstone of any human transaction. In this case, a barber or stylist should be able to listen and understand the needs and desires of their clients. The consultation, which is the initial conversation between the professional and the client to determine what is to be done, is crucial to the overall success of the cut. They should be able to ask the right questions, offer advice and recommendations. Ultimately, the haircutter should be able to repeat back to the client exactly what they want and have a clear idea of what is expected. They should also be personable and be able to ease their clients and make them feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. Having good communication skills takes practice but it’s essential to all aspects of the experience with each client. Good communication skills also extend to the way hair professionals communicate with their colleagues (other barbers and stylists) as well as management. They should be able to work as part of a team if necessary. Communication also translates into social media, appointment apps and other forms of technology. Providing clear information on websites, appointment apps about services, location, pricing and other relevant info is all part of the communication process.

4) PROFESSIONALISM

Being professional is a desirable quality of anyone. This means wearing clean and professional attire and maintaining a well-groomed appearance. However, some hair professionals tend to just wear whatever they want and can get away with it because of their status in the industry. Perhaps part of their popularity is due to their appearance and how they put themselves together. But many places of work have an expectation that you dress a certain way in their facility. Also, maintaining a professional attitude, treating customers with respect and courtesy, providing a welcoming and relaxing environment are all important. Using sanitary tools, keeping the chair and the space around it clean, adhering to health and safety regulations are all areas that clients pay attention to. Professionalism also revolves around being punctual with your appointments and not making the next client wait too long.

5) ATTENTION TO DETAIL

Anyone that truly cares about their work will care about the details. When it comes to hair, details are very important. Is the haircut finished to the highest standards? Are the tiniest details addressed? Did they shave the neck on a short haircut? Small details can make a big difference in the quality of the overall haircut. If the hair is styled or cut in a way that complements their facial features and the hairs are all in place, this is a good sign. Paying attention to the details mean there is true love for the work and the desire to do their best.

6) ADAPTABILITY

Many people don’t really think about adaptability, but it is an important quality that hairstylists and barbers should have to stay relevant. Being able to work with a variety of hair types and textures is a skill. And being able to adapt to the changing needs and preferences of their clients while trying new techniques and styles to stay current are all a part of being adaptable. Without growth, there is only stagnation so getting advanced education and constantly learning in the profession of hair is critical to ongoing success.

7) CUSTOMER SERVICE

To fall in love with a hairstylist or barber is to fall in love with their customer service. This goes hand in hand with communication skills. Customer service makes the client feel valued, appreciated and comfortable. Clients want to feel good about getting a service and a lot of that has to do with customer service. Being considerate of people’s time, giving them a refreshment while they wait and treating then with respect are all ways to provide customer service and comradery with clients. During the booking process is it easy and seamless? If making an appointment is difficult, it already puts a bad taste in the client’s mouth. Think about the customer journey and where clients can be made to feel heard and respected. Technical ability, creativity, communication skills, professionalism, attention to detail, adaptability and customer service are key areas that any hairstylist or barber should work on throughout their career to be their best. When hair pros encompass these qualities, clients are likely to stay, return and fall in love.