JATAI International (JATAI), the trusted distributor of Feather razors and a leader in professional grooming tools, proudly marks its 75th anniversary in 2025. Since its founding in 1950, JATAI has provided the highest quality products to barbers, hairstylists, grooming professionals and consumers across the country. Originally established as a bridge between Japan and the United States in the post-World War II era, this family-owned, minority-run company has grown into a leading provider of high-quality tools and education, leaving a lasting impact on the industry. To commemorate this milestone, the company is unveiling two highly anticipated limited-edition Feather haircutting razors, continuing its legacy of innovation and craftsmanship. JATAI’s story traces back to its founder, Mr. Fred Wada, whose vision and determination helped bridge the gap between America and Japan during a pivotal time of recovery and renewal. His efforts, such as facilitating the Japanese swimming team’s participation in the U.S. national championships and contributing to the Tokyo Olympic Committee, played a crucial role in strengthening international ties. These endeavors laid the groundwork for JATAI’s legacy of promoting global commerce and collaboration. Under the guidance of Mr. Kay Obayashi, JATAI evolved into an import business, bringing premium hair-cutting razors and blades to the U.S. market from renowned manufacturers like Feather Safety Razor Co. Ltd. This pivotal move established a lasting partnership that remains strong today, with JATAI proudly serving as the exclusive distributor of Feather’s beauty and barber products across North America. Under Kay’s ownership, JATAI added to its distribution portfolio the expertly crafted Seki Edge grooming line by Green Bell LTD. Combining modern technology with traditional craftsmanship, Seki Edge offers premium tools, from nail clippers to luxury grooming kits. Dean Wada took ownership of the company in 2004 after 17 years as Vice President with the company. In the 20 years since, Wada has been integrally responsible for the development of the Feather Styling Razor, the first haircutting razor with replaceable blades. Under his leadership, JATAI International continues to redefine industry standards with innovative products like the Japan-made Fuji Paper, a top choice for hair professionals seeking superior saturation and eco-friendly, tear-resistant endpapers, which Wada brought on in 2009, as well as modernizing the Seki Edge brand. “We take great pride in ushering in JATAI International’s 75^th anniversary, a feat most companies do not attain,” says Wada. “Reflecting on how much the world has changed since JATAI’s inception, we have managed to meet all the challenges with strength and resolve to become a leader in its category. Our commitment to our manufacturers, distributors and consumers has been the key to our long life.” With an emphasis on pushing the boundaries of innovation, JATAI has introduced game-changing tools over the years, including the aforementioned Feather Styling Razor with its patented blade guard. This revolutionary design not only transformed hair cutting techniques but also empowered stylists with greater creativity and precision, setting a new benchmark for excellence in the industry. To celebrate its 75 years, JATAI will introduce a limited-edition Feather Styling Razor featuring a stunning wood grain print handle. Each handle is uniquely crafted, ensuring that no two razors are exactly alike. This exclusive razor will launch in spring and will be available for a limited time, making it a must-have for hair professionals and collectors alike. In response to overwhelming requests from the hairstyling community, JATAI will also debut a new limited-edition, white-handled Feather Plier Razor this summer. Known for its precision and superior design, the Feather Plier Razor has been a favorite among professionals, and the introduction of this sleek new color option offers a fresh take on a beloved classic. 2025 will see yet another monumental event for JATAI with Dean Wada passing leadership of the company to his children, Kevin Wada and Vanessa Wada. Kevin has been with JATAI for 15 years and Vanessa for 14 years, with Kevin most recently serving as CEO and Vanessa as Vice President. “The world has changed so much the last 75 years and continues to change at a faster pace,” says Kevin Wada. “We are committed to being at the forefront of technology to provide the best service and bring new products to market. We look forward to a future filled with growth, innovation, and focus on excellence in serving our valued customers.” With 75 years of history behind it, JATAI is dedicated to expanding its presence and product line across multiple categories, such as razor handles, blades, shears, and other grooming essentials. By prioritizing outstanding customer service and strengthening brand awareness, the company seeks to connect with a broader audience through social media, its educational academy, and strategic marketing initiatives. For more information about JATAI and its anniversary product launches, visit JATAI.net and follow @jataifeather on all social media platforms.

We love a good hairstylist podcast. They’re perfect for listening on your morning commute or feeling saner while you’re mixing five bowls of color. Plus, hairstylist podcasts are a fantastic way to learn tips and tricks to grow your small business, find new clients and expand your beauty industry knowledge. In honor of International Podcast Day, here are 10 of the best beauty podcasts aimed at hair pros focused on the resources you need (plus one just for fun!)

1. Hairdustry 'Your Day Off' Podcast: By sharing the success stories of the hair industry from stylists for stylists, Your Day Off is focused on making the hair industry a better place, one episode at a time. Hosted by Corey Gray creates a place for hairdressers to get to know the industry better and see how many opportunities exist in the industry beyond hair behind the chair. New episodes drop weekly featuring a variety of people from within the industry such as John David who was a hairstylist for mobsters.
2. Destroy The Hairdresser: Hosted by hair industry veterans Cyd Charisse and David Bosscher. Destroy The Hairdresser is a business coaching platform for salon owners and stylists that aims to help hairdressers avoid ending up with little money and a broken body. Some of the topics they discuss on the weekly podcast include shifting trends in the beauty industry, finding ways to bridge racial gaps at hair salons and choosing the best product price points for a salon.
3. Hairbrained Conversations: This weekly podcast takes a deep dive into the minds of some of the most talented artists, educators, influencers and leaders in the professional salon industry. Hairbrained Conversations is hosted by founder Gerard Scarpaci, craft hairdresser and co-founder of Hairbrained, a social network with an online community, education and store to purchase the top tools in the industry (including Feather).
4. No Stylist Left Behind: Hosts Nina Tulio, a former salon owner/stylist turned business coach and speaker, and salon owner/stylist and educator J Ladner dig deep into the stories of real people that have conquered fear, failure and risked it all to reach the success they desired. No Stylist Left Behind focuses on helping you move past your insecurities, conquer your fears, and become the absolute best version of yourself inside the salon and out.
5. How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry: Voted Hairbrained’s ‘Global Industry Podcast of the Year’, How To Cut It in the Hairdressing Industry gives the insights, inspirations and information to take your hairdressing and barbering careers to the next level. Multiple episodes drop monthly in which show host Dom Lehane interviews special guests from across the hair, fashion, beauty and creative occupations, educating with their insights, inspirations and information.
6. Beyond Beauty Podcast: Presented by Professional Beauty Association (PBA), Beyond Beauty Podcast takes a deep dive into the beauty industry. New episodes are released every other Tuesday and offer advice for industry pros on how to navigate your career and learn what motivates the best in the biz.
7. Gloss Angeles: Gloss Angeles is an “edu-tainment” podcast hosted by beauty journalists Sara Tan of @refinery29 and Kirbie Johnson. Combining their love for beauty with their love of Los Angeles and celebrity culture, Sara and Kirbie give their perspective on all things makeup, skincare, and wellness through interviews and industry news deep dives. You’ll hear the future of beauty straight from the experts themselves.
8. Last Client of the Day: Just launched earlier this month, Last Client of the Day is a new podcast from Boulevard, a client experience platform for self-care businesses. Created specifically for modern self-care business owners and operators, episodes feature in-depth conversations with industry experts and entrepreneurs who have overcome significant hurdles and built some of the best brands in self-care.
9. The Hair Game: Brought to you by Salon Republic and hosted by Eric Taylor, The Hair Game digs into the business side of the hair game so you can earn (and keep more) behind the chair. Including interviews with the salon industry's most interesting people, how-to videos on things you care about, business advice for great beauty pros, marketing tips, and some behind the scenes of the inner workings at Salon Republic.
10. Armchair Expert: Looking to put some mental energy towards topics outside the hair and beauty industry? No matter your interests Armchair Expert most likely has an episode for you. Hosts Dax Shepard and Monica Padman are extremely candid about their personal lives and backgrounds as they engage in freeform conversations with guests who range from Hollywood personalities and other celebrities to authors and thinkers and advocates. New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

When it comes to beauty trends, beauty podcasts are often a go-to place to get the latest breaking beauty news on beauty products, inspiration, health and wellness and just life in general. As a hair professional, while more visual, consuming this kind of media can be a nice break from scrolling through Instagram for ideas or watching YouTube and TikTok videos for education. In celebration of International Podcast Day, these podcasts were selectively curated for the hair professional who wants more in their career. If you're looking for a healthy, balanced and successful career in the hair industry, check out what we consider to be some of the best beauty podcasts out there. Let us know what you think in the comments!

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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A post shared by 𝐒𝐎𝐅𝐈𝐄 | #𝐋𝐀 (@staygold31)

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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A post shared by Emily Chen (@emchenhair)

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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A post shared by @12pell

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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A post shared by Angela Kim Los Angeles Hair Stylist (@anglette)

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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A post shared by RAZORCUT | PASADENA (@kazdoeshair)

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!