PRINTED by The Tease Vol 3

FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

KELLY EHLERS

CO-FOUNDER

MONICA HICKEY

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF & CREATIVE DIRECTOR

JEFFREY C. LUNNEN

EDITORIAL

WRITERS

ADRIENNE SMALL, GABBY BACH, JEFFREY C. LUNNEN, KYLIE MADERSKI, MADELINE HICKEY AND MONICA HICKEY

EDITORIAL INTERNS

KATE BALESTRO AND KYLIE RICHARDSON

CONTRIBUTORS

PHOTOGRAPHERS

JOSEPH CARTRIGHT, JOSH LANDOWSKI, MAGGIE PERRY AND RICHY KANDASAMY

DESIGNER

COOPER BRANNIGAN

ADVERTISING & PARTNERSHIPS

MARSHAL HARTMAN-ROHRER

ON THE COVER

HAIR & PHOTOGRAPHY

MAGGIE PERRY

HAIR ASSISTANTS

LAINE DENIGRIS AND KEONI ZAMORA

MODEL & MAKEUP

MIRANDA RAE

To reserve your spot in the next edition of PRINTED by The Tease or to learn more about opportunities to partner, contact yourstruly@thetease.com.

PRINTED by The Tease is published bi-annually by The Tease Media: FSO Enterprises.

to advertise with thetease.com, including PRINTED by the tease, contact mhartman-rohrer@thetease.com.

TABLE of CONTENTS

10. PREPARATION DETERMINES

PERFORMANCE BY ADRIENNE SMALL

12. BEHIND THE VEIL

16. BARB THOMPSON’S KIT CHECK

20. EVANIE FRAUSTO TELLS ALL

26. EVERY NAIL TELLS A STORY BY ALISHA RIMANDO

28. RICHY KANDASAMY’S UNAPOLOGETIC APPROACH TO BLONDE

32. THE INTERNET’S FAVORITE WIGGY ARTIST

36. CULTIVATING COMMUNITY

42. SUMMER HAIR PREDICTIONS

44. SHE’S A RAINBOW… UNICORN BADDIE BY MAGGIE PERRY

52. YOUR FAVORITE COLORISTS’ COLOR CARE AND MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS

56. EXPERT ADVICE BY KELLY EHLERS

60. UNDERSTANDING EPILOGUE’S INNOVATION

64. THE FUTURE OF BLONDE CARE IS LIGHTER

66. BARBERING TRENDS

70. STROBE BY BRENDNETTA ASHLEY

76. ’26 RULE BREAKER AWARDS FINALISTS

84. INTRODUCING QOAT

welcome to PRINTED BY THE TEASE VOL. 3

SUMMER HAS A WAY OF MAKING EVERYTHING FEEL A LITTLE MORE VIVID. With the heat and humidity, hair tends to get lighter, glossier and bolder. Color, in particular, becomes less about subtlety and more about expression. This issue of PRINTED embraces that energy fully, exploring the artistry, emotion, and technical innovation behind color in all its forms.

Inside these pages you’ll find work that celebrates transformation — whether through soft dimension, high-impact creative color, like our cover story featuring the work of Maggie Perry, or the kind of lived-in tones that define effortless summer beauty. We made a point to speak with colorists at the top of the industry, those who are pushing the craft forward, artists who understand that color is storytelling, identity, mood, and, sometimes, rebellion.

whose approaches span precision, experimentation, and pure imagination. You’ll see the incredible work of Richy Kamasandy, who also talks about the keys to a clean lift, and get to experience “Strobe,” a stunning hair collection from Brendnetta Ashley.

Ahead, you’ll hear from artists like Adrienne Small, Jacob Schwartz, Megahan Masterson, Evanie Frausto and more,

We’re also spotlighting the products, techniques, and innovations shaping the hair color conversation right now.

You’ll find out what’s actually in celebrity hairstylist, and colorist, Barb Thompson’s kit and discover the groundbreaking QOAT from Alfredo Lewis — a product that’s quite literally the first in its category.

Across every page in this issue, texture and color coexist in ways that reflect the salon professional industry at its best: inclusive, directional, and deeply creative. And because summer is as much about inspiration as reinvention, we hope this volume gives you ideas to bring to your station and imagery worth lingering over a little longer.

The world still feels like a lot (which is something I guess I’m going to just keep writing in these letters?!) but great beauty work has always offered a kind of pause and an opportunity to reset. We hope PRINTED Vol. 3 brings a little of that feeling to your summer.

Jeffrey C. Lunnen

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF | JLUNNEN@THETEASE.COM

PREPARATION DETERMINES PERFORMANCE

why healthy hair, not lift, is the real goal of textured hair color

by adrienne small, healthy hair & color specialist

THE PROFESSIONAL HAIR COLOR

INDUSTRY has always celebrated dramatic transformations with brighter blondes, higher lift, and bold tonal shifts. But, for many clients with textured hair, success is measured differently. The real question isn’t just how the color looks when the service is finished; it’s whether the hair remains strong, manageable, and healthy long after the appointment is over.

Great color doesn’t start with formulation. It starts with preparation.

In my work behind the chair, I often say “Preparation Determines Performance. The condition of the hair and scalp before color is applied will ultimately determine how well that color performs.”

Traditional consultations often focus on inspiration photos, tone preferences, and how light a client wants to go. While those details matter, they overlook the factors that most directly influence the outcome of a color service on textured hair. Density, elasticity, scalp health, and a client’s history of heat or chemical services all affect how the hair will respond. Without addressing those elements first, even the most technically perfect formula can produce inconsistent or compromised results.

After years of specializing in hair color, one lesson has become clear; the success of the color service is determined long before the color is applied.

PART OF THE CHALLENGE is that many color systems were historically developed and taught around hair that behaves very differently from textured hair.

Curl pattern, density, and moisture retention all influence how color distributes, processes, and ultimately holds up over time. When these factors aren’t considered in the consultation and preparation stages, color services are often approached with expectations that don’t align with the hair’s natural structure.

REDEFINING THE CONSULTATION

Because of this, my consultation process goes beyond a conversation. Before we even consider applying color, every client begins with a “Healthy Hair Service,” designed to prepare the hair and scalp before the chemical process is even scheduled. This preparation stage includes scalp care, targeted treatments, and a precision haircut. A gentle exfoliating scalp scrub removes

buildup and restores balance to the scalp, creating the healthiest possible environment for the hair fiber before color is applied. Customized treatments address the specific needs of the client’s hair, whether that means restoring moisture, strengthening weakened strands, or improving elasticity. Lastly, a strategic haircut removes compromised hair and establishes the shape that will ultimately support the finished color.

This preparation is especially important for textured hair because curl pattern and density naturally influence how color distributes and processes throughout the hair. When the foundation is strong, color enhances the texture instead of working against it.

MOVING FROM MAXIMUM LIFT TO MAXIMUM INTEGRITY

Many textured hair clients already understand something the industry is only beginning to recognize, and that is, dramatic color means very little if it comes at the expense of the hair’s integrity. A beautiful blonde or rich brunette tone loses its impact if the hair becomes fragile, dry, or difficult to manage afterward.

Hair color isn’t just about transformation; it’s about preservation. When colorists shift their focus from maximum lift to maximum integrity, the entire service changes, and textured hair finally gets the color approach it has always deserved.

For next level hair transformations with unfiltered insights on each and every post, make sure that you’re following Adrienne on Instagram.

Behind the Veil

The Over-Scrolled Bride and the New Bridal Economy

by monica hickey, co-founder thetease.com

Cassie FINALLY married Nate with $50,000 worth of flowers. Will Taylor Swift follow the bow trend? Could you escape Zendaya’s something old, borrowed, and blue-coded press tour (with the insane bridal bob). Bridal isn’t just in this editor’s algorithm; ‘tis the season, and that season is now for everyone.

While the conversation around weddings has changed dramatically, the business opportunity has not gone anywhere. The Global Bridal Wear Industry Report expects the bridal wear industry to reach almost 70 billion in sales.

What if you had just a slightly bigger piece of that pie?

Professionals need to build out a custom package with SEO to highlight how they can support the over-educated, over-scrolling, and over-stimulated (millennial) bride AND look to everyday trends on the red carpet and Gen-Z expression to expand their offerings to the up-and-coming bride and gooms (recommended Google search: “how Gen Z is ruining the bridal industry).

With all of this in mind, we’re expanding Behind the Veil’s coverage of trends and business recommendations in the beauty bridal space by partnering with WedVibes Media and some of our favorite bridal stylists, makeup artists, and nail professionals across the globe to look at how the industry is evolving in real time and what beauty professionals should be paying attention to heading into bridal season.

Designer: @sarehnouri

Photographer: @karinagisellephoto

Makeup: @vca.mua

Accessories: @erinrhyne

Floral: @ladyslipper_floral_design

Hair: @cheydoeshair

Hair: The Era of Personalized Bridal Hair

One of the biggest shifts happening in bridal hair right now is the social-media democratization of inspiration. Brides are arriving at consultations with the same saved TikToks, the same Pinterest screenshots, and the same celebrity references circulating through the algorithm. That creates both opportunity and challenge for stylists.

Clients are more informed than ever, but they are also seeing highly edited versions of bridal beauty repeated constantly online. Hairdressers are now balancing inspiration with education and helping brides understand how trends translate to their own hair texture, color, face shape, and wedding environment.

Let’s make this an opportunity!

1. Require a consultation - both digital to discuss the ‘wants’ and in-person months before to discuss the ‘needs

2. Start asking the bride/groom these questions:

a. Will your current hair color make this updo glow?

b. Have you ever had coffin nails?

c. What skincare routine are you using to get ready for your makeup look?

As an overall trend, we’re seeing a casualization of the bridal glam look, wrapped in a false sense of individualism. Think sculpted bobs, textured shoulder-length styles, brushed movement, wanded bends, and hair. The overly formal bridal updo is giving way to styles that feel more connected to how the bride already wears her hair in everyday life.

Makeup: AI Era

Just with color and styling, the AI era has made bridal makeup and skin consultation more important than ever. Search TikTok for ‘I redid my bridal makeup’ and you’ll see a host of videos from brides - and responses from pros. What’s the gap? Consultation.

Designer: @sarehnouri

Photographer: @karinagisellephoto

Makeup: @vca.mua

Accessories: @erinrhyne

Floral: @ladyslipper_floral_design

Hair: @cheydoeshair

@SculptedbyKee

Makeup trends are continuing to polarize. On the one hand, the increase of AI slop on Instagram and Pinterest has clients bringing in images with unrealistic expectations. On the other hand, brides

and grooms who grew up in the pandemic era are opting for lighter looks. How do we keep up? Don’t specialize in one concept; focus on consultation, white-glove service, and support instead of stringent packages.

The Most Photographed Detail of the Wedding Day

Perhaps that’s a clickbait subhead, but it’s not entirely wrong! Bridal nails are becoming one of the fastest-evolving categories within bridal beauty.

@nextlevelnails.pro

@SculptedbyKee

@nextlevelnails.pro

With engagement photos, bouquet shots, ring close-ups, and social content, nails are now one of the most visible beauty details of the entire wedding experience. Having a nail team in the bridal suite is no longer unheard of to support elaborate looks featuring gems and other specialty add-ons. Brides are moving beyond traditional bridal French manicures and leaning into milky neutrals, soft chrome finishes, translucent blush tones, and delicate laceinspired detailing.

What is consistent, regardless of the bride’s interest, is a dedication to technique.

@nextlevelnails.pro is leaning into this with online courses that focus on the technical aspects required as the base for these integral looks.

Pricing Has Entered the Chat

Recently, Simone Biles made headlines discussing the costs of her redcarpet glam, with celebrity hairdressers responding in kind as an open discussion of the value they bring to these events. Clients are more aware of pricing than ever before, which means beauty professionals need to become more confident in explaining the time, preparation, expertise, and customization that bridal services actually require.

Some tips for navigating these conversations:

• Make your package listings transparent and public on your website - our industry has always been afraid of publicising this information. However, as the younger generation has more information at their fingertips, not listing your pricing could auto-opt you out of opportunities

• Consultations (someone do a word-count check on this!) - at the risk of sounding like a broken record, if you know what you’re getting yourself into, you’ll know how to support your pricing. Too often, bridal or session stylists show up to an event with mismatched expectations to the client, and that’s where the math stops adding up

• Review pricing every 6 months - YES, you’re likely booked out through the season, evaluate how that is going, what services or situations best support your business? Update the on-site pricing to support.

What Does Your Work Look Like?

According to The Knot, 36% of couples are using AI to source their wedding-day support. THAT number was published in 2025, which means it’s not only probably out of date, but also low. Do you know what AI is really bad at? Finding that perfect niche partner to make her day special. You know what it’s really good at? Helping YOU show couples that it could be you.

Our 2026 official bridal trend advice builds on the 2025 column. We’ll put it in list form for you so you can skim.

• Build custom, labeled bridal packages. Even if it’s your regular collection of services or day rate. Create an easyto-find custom experience for the couple who is searching ‘analogue’ or with ai

• Require consultations, early, often, and paid in your bridal packages. Yes, 1-week prior to the wedding will give you the best idea of what you’ll work with on the big day, but 6-months, 3-months prior will create opportunities for customization, problem solving and revenue development

• Build out a portfolio that is easily findable by AI. Not sure if yours is? Search for pros in your area with the service offerings you provide. Do you show up?

• Remember you’re a pro - they are not. Like many well-run industries, we assume our couples know how we work, why it works that way, and how the investment impacts the results. But a large percentage of couples are planning their wedding for the first time, by themselves. YOU are the expert, educate them on how to think about your services.

• Make. It. Fun. As a recent bride, my glam team, in a foreign country, with an impossible time zone difference, answered my call to be overcommunicative and overzealous in the process. Shout out to staceytoner_artsy, staceydeanebridalhair, sculptedbykee and hairbeautybridal for being ahead of the trends.

Designer: @sarehnouri

Photographer: @karinagisellephoto

Makeup: @vca.mua

Accessories: @erinrhyne

Floral: @ladyslipper_floral_design

Hair: @cheydoeshair

@kasia_fortuna

Wed Vibes

4 trends we expect to see in 2026:

by Daria, Co-Founder, Head of Creative & Visual Communication WedVibes Media

1. The “Wed-cation” Is the New Wedding

The single-day wedding is giving way to a multi-day experience. Couples in 2026 aren’t planning just a ceremony - they’re curating time together. Welcome dinners, boat days, spa mornings, farewell brunches. Guests don’t just attend; they travel, connect, and share something meaningful. This immersive, experience-led format is quickly becoming the new standard.

2. Weddings Are Becoming Rooted in Place

There is a stronger focus on location-driven design. Instead of large-scale décor that could exist anywhere, weddings are becoming more intentional and grounded in their setting. Couples are embracing local cuisine, regional music, and culturally inspired elements - creating celebrations that feel authentic rather than staged.

Designer: @sarehnouri

Photographer: @karinagisellephoto

Makeup: @vca.mua

Accessories: @erinrhyne

Floral: @ladyslipper_floral_design

Hair: @cheydoeshair

3. Content Is Now Part of the Design

The wedding content creator has officially become a mainstream vendor category. Couples are hiring dedicated creators - separate from their photographer & videographer - to capture real-time, behind-the-scenes moments for Reels and TikTok. But the deeper shift is this: lighting, timing, layouts, even color palettes are now being chosen with the camera in mind. Content isn’t documenting the wedding anymore - it’s shaping it.

4. Unexpected Venues Are the New Status Symbol

Traditional venues are no longer the default. Couples are gravitating toward spaces with character - private villas, vineyard estates, historic ruins, caves, and cliffside terraces. There’s a growing desire for places that feel discovered rather than booked. The venue itself becomes part of the story, not just the setting.

kit check: BARB THOMPSON

by jeffrey c. lunnen

BARB THOMPSON HAS BUILT A REPUTATION as one of Hollywood’s most trusted hairstylists, with a client list that includes Hilary Duff, Olivia Wilde, Mandy Moore, Marissa Bode, Justine Lupe, Molly Gordon, and many more. Known for her signature blend of polish and ease, her work channels an effortless, effortless-French girl meets California-cool sensibility — hair that feels lived-in, touchable, and refined. Whether she’s crafting looks for the red carpet or shaping styles for live performances, Thompson brings a modern, understated approach that continues to define a very West Coast glam.

KEEP READING FOR WHAT’S ACTUALLY IN HER KIT, PLUS WHY, DIRECTLY FROM THOMPSON HERSELF.

1. RŌZ MILK HAIR SERUM

“Truly the foundation to every look I create. It’s heat protection. It’s moisture. Works with all hair types.” $50.00, rozhair.com.

2. R+CO OUTER SPACE FLEXIBLE HAIRSPRAY

"After I have blown out a client and prior to curling this. This is my MUST HAVE. Another layer of heat protection but also delivers long lasting holding power to any look.” $37.00, randco.com.

3. LEONOR GREYL VOLUFORME HAIR SPRAY FOR VOLUME AND HOLD

"It’s hairspray that doesn’t weigh down the look. It always helps build volume. Can’t go on set without it and the bottle is on the smaller side so great for your set bag or travel!” $39.00, leonorgreyl-usa.com.

@barbdoeshair

4. THE LARGE CHECK-IN ROLLER BAG FROM BEIS IN ALL BLACK

“The best kit bag I have had to date. Super durable. Cleans easily. The handle is weirdly my favorite part, it has this cushion on the bottom and when you travel a lot, it’s all in the details.” $368.00, beistravel.com.

5. DAYS OF DIRT FROM CALIFORNIA BORN

“Amazing for short hair. The greatest smell that takes you straight to the beach. It’s a cream formula that adds texture. Great for wet or dry. But also amazing for slick back styles.” $35.00, californiaborn.com.

6. GHD CHRONOS CURVE GRAND IRON (1.25” BARREL)

“It’s my most used iron. So versatile. Beach waves to detailing ends after a blow dry. Amazing tool.” $259.00, ghdhair.com.

7. T3 BODYWAVER CURLING IRON (1.75” BARREL)

“It’s a newer favorite for me. Amazing for smoother looks that really want that effortless hair. And on the flip side if you want that 90s blowout of roller set look this iron is perfect.” $199.99, t3micro.com.

8. ORIBE ROYAL BLOWOUT HEAT STYLING SPRAY

“Truly a secret weapon. If you have a client with lots of hair or really coarse hair, this product will help cut your styling time in half. I like to spray further from the hair when getting used to it but amazing for those who would be good candidates for a smoothing treatment. But when you need this product you need it! Pro tip: This product is also amazing for wet looks in a pinch”! $72.00, sephora.com.

9. RŌZ AIR THICKENING SPRAY

“It’s more than what it sounds like. Amazing memory to this product without feeling product-y. I even like it on thicker hair clients that could fall flat. Roots to ends this product can do it all. A pro tip is to use a little on dry hair to disrupt the hair if it needs more definition or texture.” $39.00, rozhair.com.

10. IBIZA CX8 BRUSH

“Amazing for detangling. Feels super stimulating on the scalp. But also amazing for brushing out waves. It’s one of my most asked about tools.” $70.00, ibizahair.com. 8.

THE SERVICE EVERY CLIENT WILL ASK FOR BY NAME

GLOSS GIMME

COLOUR WITH STRENGTH AND SHINE IN NO TIME. PROVEN RESULTS IN JUST 20 MINUTES:

• No damage. No commitment.

• 100% restoration of hair health1

• 36% stronger hair1

• 1.9X shine2

EVANIE FRAUSTO TELLS ALL

by gabby bach

Evanie Frausto isn’t just coloring hair. He’s redefining it as an art form. Known for his bold, expressive use of color and ability to blur the lines between beauty and creativity, Frausto has emerged as one of the most exciting voices in modern hair. He’s become a go-to for some of the biggest names in pop culture, including Sabrina Carpenter, Lady Gaga, Kim Kardashian and Bella Hadid. When he’s not creating for the red carpet, he’s taking on boundary-pushing editorial work, partnering with brands like PRAVANA and Redken. He also recently made his runway debut with his own avant-garde brand Showpony, which reimagines hair as clothing.

With plenty up his sleeve in the year ahead, we chatted with Frausto to get an inside look into how color empowers his artistry.

MASTERING THE FUNDAMENTAL

THE TEASE: Was there a defining moment when you realized color would become central to your identity as an artist?

EVANIE FRAUSTO:

FINDING A VISION

How do you balance artistry and wearability when working with high-impact, bold color?

It comes down to placement and intention. Even the boldest color can feel wearable if it’s thoughtfully applied through dimension, root softness, or how it frames the face. I always think about how color lives in real life, not just under lights.

Yes – when I realized how transformative color could be beyond just beauty. It became a tool for storytelling and emotion. Color isn’t just an enhancement. It is the statement. That shift made me fully lean into it as a core part of my work.

Who or what influences or inspires your aesthetic the most?

My aesthetic is shaped by a mix of fashion, subculture, and nostalgia. I’m constantly inspired by editorial archives, underground club scenes, and the way people express identity through transformation. I’m drawn to tension: Something polished but slightly undone. Something beautiful with an edge.

Can you walk us through your creative process when conceptualizing a color story for a shoot?

It usually starts with a feeling or a reference fabric, lighting, or a specific tone that I am drawn to. From there, I build a palette and think about depth, contrast, and movement. I map out placement and how it will photograph. It’s very intentional, but I always leave space for spontaneity on set.

What advice would you give to emerging stylists who want to experiment more boldly with color?

Stop waiting for permission. Experimentation is where your voice develops. Learn color theory, but don’t let it limit you. Use it as a foundation to break rules intentionally. Document everything. Your “mistakes” often become your signature.

TALKING TECHNIQUE AND TRENDS

Are there specific techniques you’ve developed or refined that help achieve your vibrant looks?

It comes down to placement and intention. Even the boldest color can feel wearable if it’s thoughtfully applied through dimension, root softness, or how it frames the face. I always think about how color lives in real life, not just under lights.

How do you stay inspired and continue evolving your technique in such a fast-moving industry?

I stay curious and look beyond hair fashion, art, film, architecture. Inspiration comes from everywhere. I also allow myself to evolve without feeling tied to one identity. Growth is essential in an industry that moves this quickly.

What color trends are your favorite right now?

I’m drawn to more nuanced tones. Colors that aren’t overly saturated but still have impact. Softened neons, dimensional blondes, and unexpected tonal blends that shift in different lighting feel really exciting right now.

TALKING TECHNIQUE AND TRENDS

How does your approach differ between editorial projects and salon work?

Editorial is about pushing boundaries; there are fewer limitations, so I can be more experimental. In the salon, it’s more collaborative. I’m translating those ideas into something that fits the client’s lifestyle while still feeling elevated.

In what ways does editorial styling influence what you bring back to your clients?

Editorial constantly feeds my client work. It keeps me evolving, so I’m always bringing back new techniques, textures, and ideas but refined in a way that feels personal and wearable.

POWERED BY PRAVANA

What about PRAVANA made you want to partner with them? How did your partnership come about?

PRAVANA has always been synonymous with bold, high-performance color. Their commitment to creativity and innovation aligns with

how I approach my work, so it felt like a natural partnership. It came about organically through mutual alignment in vision and a shared desire to push color further.

What are your favorite PRAVANA products and why? Which ones are most essential to your salon and editorial work? Their VIVIDS color line is essential for me. The payoff and longevity are unmatched. I also rely heavily on their lighteners because they allow me to create a clean, even canvas without compromising the integrity of the hair, which is everything for both editorial and client work.

How has working with PRAVANA shaped or expanded your approach to color formulation and technique?

It has allowed me to push color further while maintaining quality. I’ve been able to experiment more confidently with layering tones and refining formulation, knowing the products will support both the vision and the health of the hair.

SHOWCASING SHOWPONY

What inspired the launch of Showpony?

Tell us more about the line.

Showpony came from a desire to merge high-fashion hair with accessibility. I wanted to create something that felt editorial but still wearable where fantasy and structure meet. At the same time, it became a space where I could fully release my most extreme and unfiltered creative ideas. It’s rare to have a platform where you can build an entire universe from head to toe, and for me, Showpony is

exactly that pushing the boundaries of traditional hairstyling and redefining what hair can be within fashion.

How did Showpony’s NYFW debut come about? What made you want to use PRAVANA for the look? What inspired the theme for the collection?

The debut was about making a statement bringing a sense of punk energy back to New York with a fearless approach to hair. Many of the looks extended beyond the head, with hair flowing into and becoming part of the garments themselves, intentionally blurring the line between hair and clothing. It was about fully realizing what was in my mind without compromise structured yet fluid, polished but expressive.

Using PRAVANA was essential; they were the perfect color partner to achieve the exact tones and finishes that complemented the collection. Their shades Crush and Juicy were especially key. Those pinks carried through both the hair and elements of the clothing, creating a cohesive, head-to-toe color story that tied the entire look together and reinforced the overall vision.

What can pros expect from Showpony this year?

Expansion, stronger storytelling, more refined silhouettes, and a deeper exploration of how hair interacts with fashion. It’s about continuing to evolve the universe while staying true to its identity.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re particularly excited about or can tease?

There are a few collaborations and creative projects in development that I’m really excited about, plus more editorial work, expanded Showpony concepts, and deeper exploration into color storytelling. It’s all about continuing to push the work forward.

1: Zamar Velez

Lian Benoit

Jeff Pearson

David Gannon

Huy Long

Gerardo Somoza

The Purple Renaissance

by marshal hartman-rohrer

Fanola is one of those brands everyone knows.

Everyone’s had a bottle of it in their shower at some point in their blonde journey, but no one really remembers how they found it in the first place. It just… appeared. And for a while, it was everywhere. Then, just as quietly, it became harder to track down. Finding it turned into a bit of a guessing game: who has it, will it ship, and why is the price suddenly different?

That’s all changing now.

When I met with Cheryl Kidwell (EVP Strategy & Growth North America) at Cosmoprof Vegas to discuss the brand’s return to the U.S. market, what she shared felt less like a relaunch and more like a reset. Fanola entered North America without a clear long-term strategy. Things weren’t quite as cut and dry as they expected but, instead of forcing it, they paused. They stepped back, paid attention to how stylist culture here actually works, and are coming back with new leadership and a much sharper point of view.

You see it immediately in Fanola Wonder, an elevated extension designed for the modern stylist. It brings updated technology into the brand’s core care, turning what was once a maintenance recommendation into something more performance-driven behind the chair.

But the biggest shift is The Toning Bar, an in-salon retail concept spearheaded by Kidwell. Purple shampoo may be the gateway, but tonal care goes far beyond that. By placing No Yellow (for blonde hair prone to brassiness), No Orange (for dark hair prone to fading orange), and No Red (for dark hair prone to fading red) side by side, Fanola is finally translating color theory into something clients can understand, and will actually shop.

Fanola is back and this time, you won’t have to go looking for it.

Fanola is a 2026 Second Act Supreme finalist because its return to the U.S. market is a true recalibration. After stepping back, the brand is re-entering North America with a sharper pro focus, expanded innovation, and a clearer point of view. With the launch of its Toning Bar spotlighting No Yellow, No Orange, and No Red as a complete tonal-balancing system across all depths, the elevation of its formulas through the pro-driven Wonder extension, and the introduction of professional color systems to the market, Fanola is redefining its authority for the modern professional.

EVERY NAIL TELLS A STORY this summer

by alisha rimando

If you love nails, you’ve already noticed this summer, every nail is telling its own story.

We’re seeing a clear divide. You’re either in a workplace that calls for clean, natural nails or a classic French, or you’re fully leaning into some of the most expressive, personality-driven designs we’ve seen in years. There’s not much in between, but this isn’t just about nails getting “wild.” It’s about individuality.

This season is less about perfectly matching sets and more about curated contrast. Each nail can carry a different design, texture, or finish while still feeling intentional as a whole. It’s storytelling through artistry and it’s evolving fast. If you’re not paying attention week to week, you’re going to miss something.

Social platforms like Instagram and Pinterest are fueling inspiration at lightning speed, but inspiration is only half the equation, execution is where professionals stand apart.

That’s where education becomes essential, giving nail techs the tools to turn trends into refined, wearable designs.

So, what’s defining summer right now?

3D EVERYTHING.

Texture is having a major moment. From raised gel droplets that mimic water to sculpted elements that sit on top of the nail, dimension is key. These are nails you don’t just see, you experience.

ANIMAL PRINT, REIMAGINED.

Today’s animal prints are layered with chrome, outlined in metallics, and paired with unexpected color stories. Gold chrome in particular, is dominating and being used to frame designs and create jewelry-like effects directly on the nail.

THE TWISTED FRENCH.

The French manicure hasn’t disappeared, it’s evolved. Angles, asymmetry, layered color, and negative space are transforming this classic into something modern and fashion-forward.

JUICY, PLAYFUL STORYTELLING.

Fruit-inspired designs, candy-like finishes, and high-gloss “wet” looks bring a sense of fun, nostalgia, and indulgence that feels perfectly aligned with summer.

To bring these looks to life, product choice matters. A strong hard gel or high viscosity top coat is essential for building dimension whether creating water droplets, raised textures, or encapsulated effects. Chrome powders, especially gold, are a must, while embellishments like colored rhinestones and gold bullion add a polished, jewelry-like finish.

The takeaway? Be bold. Be playful. And don’t chase perfection. Summer 2026 nails are about expression, individuality, and pushing boundaries while still maintaining professional technique. The more confident you are in your foundational skills, the more freedom you have to explore these trends at a higher level.

And if you’re ready to move beyond inspiration and actually master these techniques, you can find full tutorials on all of these looks covering everything from foundational skills like sculpting and tip application to advanced, trend-driven designs at GlossaryLive.com, Nails from A to Z.

Because this summer, nails aren’t just an accessory. They’re the whole conversation.

Want more nail content? Of course you do! Follow @glossary_live or visit glossary live.com for hundreds of nail art tutorials, inspiration and advice from award-winning nail artists from around the world.

RICHY KANDASAMY SHARES HIS APPROACH to achieving an unapologetic blonde

WORDS BY JEFFREY C. LUNNEN

HAIR & PHOTOS BY RICHY KANDASAMY

Richy Kandasamy is a defining voice in modern hair color, known for his luxurious, high-impact results as much as the care he takes to get them. As VP of R+COLOR Development, he combines technical precision with trendsetting artistry. We caught up with Kandasamy to talk about his “unapologetically blonde” series, the never-ending appeal of blonde and his keys to a clean lift. Read on for more.

THE TEASE: Why do you think platinum blonde is so enduring in popularity?

RICHY KANDASAMY: “Platinum platinum blonde lives between rebellion and luxury on one person you feel soft, and I thought less another futuristic and high fashion. That’s why it never disappears. It’s not safe hair, it’s intentional, confidence and presence.

Trends change but platinum blonde always finds its way back because it reflect light , texture and identity like no-other shade.”

When you posted some of this series, you mentioned “when the canvas is clean, every detail speaks.” Can you tell us about how you ensure a clean lift?

“A clean lift starts with a great consultation and patience and a vision. The most important thing is working with a great lightening powder or cream that when lifting is happening it protects the hair and scalp. Then it’s all about saturation and control with respecting the undertone or underlying pigment. Never rush the process.”

For this model, which products did you use and why?

“I used R+COLOR Chairlift powder Lightener + 20 volume developer to create a clean, even lift while protecting the integrity and feel of the hair. I wanted the canvas to stay luminous, soft, and refined, never overprocessed.

After lifting to a very pale yellow undertone, I toned with R+COLOR Hypermatic Demi Toner (N10 (Aerials) + VV10 (Palazzo) with 5 volume liquid developer for a modern reflective finish with softness and movement.

Healthy, expensive, touchable blonde.”

@richykanda

What do you want other colorists to know about blonding?

“Blonding is not about speed! It’s about the process and creating a feeling. Anybody can make hair lighter, but true blonde artistry is creating hair that feels expensive, effortless, and alive — and a healthy end result.

Don’t chase brightness. Chase dimension, reflection, movement, and emotion. That’s what makes a blonde unforgettable.”

— Richy Kandasamy “ ”

Don’t chase brightness. Chase dimension, reflection, movement, and emotion.

That’s what makes a blonde unforgettable.

by gabby bach

THE INTERNET’S FAVORITE “WIGGY ARTIST” meaghan masterson talks artistic expression + keys to coloring wigs @meaghanmastersonhair

AFTER FEELING UNINSPIRED

CREATIVELY, New York-based hairstylist Meagan Masterson turned to wig artistry in 2022 to find a new outlet. Since then, she has never looked back. Now, her Instagram feed is scroll-stopping – filled with long, bright, and colorful locks. She’s also worked with professional wrestler Mercedes Moné and drag queens Kandy Muse, Nymphia Wind, and Nicky Doll to create looks that can survive the ring and the cat walk. It’s no surprise she’s known as “the wiggy artist.”

To learn all her insider secrets, we chatted with Meagan Masterson herself.

BEHIND THE ARTISTRY

THE TEASE: Where do you find inspiration for your work?

MEAGHAN MASTERSON: “That’s a loaded question because I can find inspiration in just about anything. Most hair artists look to other hair to spark an idea, which is great. But when you open up to other unconventional areas to spark an idea, it takes things to the next level. To narrow it down: anything Y2K core, nature, traveling, animals, going to museums, fashion, musicians, movies – I can keep going! Pretty much anything can be an inspiration for me as long as there is color or shapes or it provokes a feeling!”

Are there any artistic techniques (like painting, watercolor, or illustration) that influence how you approach wig coloring?

“Not one particular form of art but art in general – in the sense of understanding color, how it can be perceived, and how you can control that. For example, in Van Gogh’s Starry Night, the colors of the moon and stars are so bold and impactful because they are sitting next to a dark blue sky and light swirling clouds and the center of the painting has a darker figure. This intention is

crucial for me to keep what color I want where when I create color placements and color palettes.”

What does your process look like for creating a design? Do you start with a clear concept or let yourself experiment?

“It depends on the wig. For some of my celebrity clientele or brand work, there is typically a specific vision for the results. When I am creating for content or fun, I always have a vision and mood board in mind. It can shift or change during my creating process, but it always starts with a plan and story in mind.”

Are there any new techniques or styles you’re currently experimenting with?

“Hair designs! I have mastered color blocking, but I just started experimenting with making designs on hair. I am loving the challenge!”

GETTING TECHNICAL

What makes wig artistry creatively stand out from traditional hair coloring?

“Working in wigs is a way to let out whatever is in your head on a blank canvas.

Clients are great, but most of the time, you are limited to what their hair will allow you to do.”

What are the biggest technical differences between coloring wigs and coloring natural hair?

“When coloring wigs, you have to use your knowledge and expertise to determine where the color/hair is going to lay. You will know the outcome of your placement much easier on a client’s hair versus a wig.”

Are there particular types of wigs that work best for vibrant color results?

“I will pretty much color anything that is human hair. It’s all about the starting color canvas, and color 613 is my go to!”

What tools or products are essential in your wig-coloring toolkit?

“Believe it or not, Saran Wrap is CRUCIAL for me when doing my signature color blocking. You can separate your colors while

applying, you can mold it to the head shape/length, and you can see through it.”

INSIDER TIPS

For someone who wants to start coloring wigs, what skills should they focus on first?

“Really understand the head shape of who your wig is going on – that is very very important. With clients’ hair, you know exactly how and where it will lay. On a wig, you are guessing.”

What are a few beginnerfriendly techniques pros can experiment with?

“Just do it! Don’t be afraid to mess up. Just create and then find your way. If you want a beginner friendly way to start your wiggy journey, look out for my education!”

What are some common mistakes you made along the way as you learned about wig artistry that you would want beginners to know about?

“Understand the head shape and the amount of color you need. Wiggys eat color, so make sure you are fully stocked! Also, take small sections for premium saturation.”

WHAT’S NEXT

Are there any trends emerging that you are excited about?

“Hair designs are HUGE! They are blowing up on socials. It’s so refreshing to see this unconventional, beautiful way to show artistic expression. Whether it’s stripes, full portraits, or swirls, anything goes!”

Are there any projects you are working on that you can tease?

“I’m getting into doing independent education to spread all the wig coloring to my fellow artists! Look out for my in-person look and learn “All the Wiggy Tea” classes and one on one shadow classes! I finished up an iconic wiggy look for an upcoming popstar – You can see the look on tour and in their next music video! I can’t say anymore, but head to my Instagram to see who soon! I am very excited to start my next wiggy for Nicky Doll, host of Drag Race France, for a black and white bold contrasting look! In the end, working on expanding my creativity is always my next move.”

MEET BELLAMI’S NEW HALO PRO ® : THE

EASIEST YES IN EXTENSIONS.

Anew era of hair extensions has arrived, and BELLAMI is leading the way. In a category long defined by length and volume, Halo PRO® introduces a new level of innovation.

Created with the modern, on-the-go consumer in mind, Halo PRO® moves effortlessly through even the most demanding schedules. From early mornings to last-minute plans, it delivers a consistent, confidence-boosting transformation in minutes.

THE FASTEST WAY TO ADD LENGTH AND DENSITY — IN OR OUT OF THE CHAIR

Halo PRO® is engineered for instant results without compromise, bringing together advanced technology and effortless wear for a seamless, undetectable finish.

At the core is RootReplica™ Technology, designed to mimic natural hair growth for the most natural-looking blend. FlexMesh™ Construction delivers a lightweight, breathable, antibacterial base for all-day comfort, while SiliconeGrip™ SecureHold ensures a secure, non-slip fit without tension.

Together, these innovations create a halo extension that feels as natural as it looks, offering length, fullness, and confidence in under five minutes.

THE GATEWAY TO EXTENSIONS

Halo PRO® redefines how clients experience extensions, making them

more approachable, wearable, and easy to say yes to.

Its instant, try-it-now transformation allows stylists to demonstrate length and volume in real time, helping clients see the result before committing. For first-time extension guests, it removes hesitation. For stylists, it opens the door to BELLAMI’s full range of professional methods.

Whether worn daily or used as a stepping stone to semi-permanent services, Halo PRO® bridges the gap between curiosity and conversion — unlocking new opportunities behind the chair.

SHADE & LENGTH OFFERING

The collection features 25 curated shades and four versatile lengths:

• 14” Halo PRO®: $380–$425

• 16” Halo PRO®: $400–$450

• 18” Halo PRO®: $470–$525

• 20” Halo PRO®: $530–$595

Designed for real life and built with BELLAMI’s signature craftsmanship, Halo PRO® delivers salon-quality results: no tools, no damage, no long-term commitment.

For stylists ready to expand their kit and grow their business, visit bellamihair.com.

CULTIVATING A COMMUNITY

with christian michael hair extensions

by gabby bach

FOR TIFFANY LOE, the leap from stylist to founder wasn’t driven by trend, but by experience. After years of working closely with clients and navigating the limitations of existing products, she saw an opportunity to create something better, and Christian Michael Hair Extensions emerged.

Named after her son, the hair extension brand aims to not only offer stellar products and education but to put the stylist first. Over the past year, the brand has skyrocketed, amassing hundreds of thousands of followers across social media. Now, Tiffany Loe is chatting with us to reflect on her journey and what’s ahead.

FINDING THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY

THE TEASE: What first drew you to the beauty industry, and how did your career begin?

TIFFANY LOE: “I truly wanted to better the lives of women.

I’ve always been a caretaker at heart — my entire family is in the medical field, taking care of people — but I knew early on that path wasn’t for me. I wasn’t good with blood, and I didn’t feel aligned with the pressure of holding someone’s life in that way. I did know I had a natural gift for the beauty industry. I realized I could still care for people, just in a different way: through confidence, connection, and helping women feel like themselves again.”

What were some of the biggest lessons you learned in the early stages of your career?

“Honestly… I learned how not to treat people. I learned that people matter, no matter where they are in life, financially or otherwise. I learned how to step into other people’s shoes and lead with empathy. Those early experiences shaped me into who I am today, not just as a stylist, but as a leader.”

@tiffanyloe

THE BIRTH OF A BRAND: CHRISTIAN MICHAEL HAIR EXTENSIONS

What inspired you to create Christian Michael Hair Extensions?

“Other stylists—us as a whole. I saw a problem, and I wanted to fix it. I wanted to create a company that felt full circle – one that prioritized people just as much as it prioritized quality. I never wanted a stylist to feel like a number or like they didn’t matter. I wanted them to feel seen, supported, and like they were truly a part of something.”

What were the biggest challenges you faced when launching the company?

“Manufacturing was one of the hardest parts. I went through a lot — financially and mentally — to find partners who aligned with my values. I needed to know everything: where the hair came from, how it was sourced and how people were treated and paid.

THE TRUTH IS: not all manufacturers are honest about that, so I had to find one that was transparent, ethical, and willing to grow with us.

The other challenge was breaking into the beauty industry as more than ‘just a hairstylist.’ People underestimated me, but I stayed focused on my mission, which has always been to change the lives of women and the hairstylists within this industry.”

ELEVATED EDUCATION

How important is education when it comes to extensions, both for stylists and clients?

“It’s everything. Education often gets lost in the sauce because it’s not always the biggest money-maker, but for us, it’s non-negotiable. We are 100% here for the stylist and the client. We want stylists to feel confident not only in their skills but also in the product they’re using. We want clients to feel confident in the stylists they find through our CM Certified Stylist Locator.”

What are some common mistakes you see stylists make when working with extensions?

“A big one is relying only on look and learn education, like YouTube or quick online videos. There’s nothing wrong with those platforms, but they don’t build true confidence. What actually helps stylists grow is having an educator look at their work, guide them, and help them improve in real time.”than ‘just a hairstylist.’ People underestimated me, but I stayed focused on my mission, which has always been to change the lives of women and the hairstylists within this industry.”

How do you approach teaching and empowering other professionals in the industry?

“We lead with a ‘we are of service’ mindset. There is no room for ego in education. This industry has become very ‘who’s who,’ and in that, true education has been lost. A great educator should want their students to become better than them. That’s always been my goal.

At CM, we offer:

• CM Hidden Method

• CM Hybrid Method

• CM Chain Method

• CM Custom Perming

• CM K-Tip Mastery

• CM Tape Weft Masterclass

All designed to actually support stylists, not confuse them.”

You recently brought J Ladner on to the team as Global Artistic Director. What led you to that decision and how do you think that will help grow CM’s educational efforts?

“J was the missing piece we had been looking for. He’s truly a unicorn. He leads with education first and always has the stylist’s best interest at heart. He aligns perfectly with everything CM stands for. Bringing him on was an honor, and it allows us to expand our education globally while maintaining the integrity of what we teach.”

BUSINESS BUILDING

How have you stayed authentic while growing your business?

“By staying grounded in who I am at my core. People are people – no matter money, status, or success. I stay where my feet are. I remind myself constantly that I’m still learning and growing. I don’t know everything, and I never will. The day I stop learning is the day I should step away.”

What role has social media played in your growth?

“A huge role. It’s allowed me to reach so many people and build a community that goes far beyond my chair. My goal has always been to bring value, connection, and hopefully a little bit of joy and love into the industry through it.”

How do you maintain relationships with your community and customers?

“I listen. I keep things light, stay present, and make sure I’m putting others first. That’s where humility lives, when you’re not trying to be the center of everything.”

What advice would you give to stylists who want to build their own brand?

“Take every opportunity. Keep going, no matter what. If something feels off, listen to it. Your intuition will never lie to you.”

REFLECTING AND LOOKING AHEAD

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?

“Changing lives. That’s always been the goal, and it always will be.”

What would you say your biggest achievement has been so far? What are you most proud of?

“The fact that I’m helping people. I’m a helper at my core, and if I’m making even a small difference in someone’s life, then I know I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.”

What’s next for Christian Michael Hair Extensions? Are there any upcoming launches or projects you’re especially excited about?

“Toppers. I’ve waited a long time to step into this space because it’s emotional. It’s deeper than just hair. I wanted to make sure I was truly ready to serve at the highest level. This part of my career feels the most meaningful, and I’m incredibly excited to deliver something that can genuinely change lives.”

LBUILT BEHIND THE CHAIR: THE REDAVID STORY

eonardo Redavid didn’t begin his career planning to build a brand, but years behind the chair made one thing clear. The products available could style the hair, but they weren’t improving its condition. Working closely with clients and running his own salon, he saw the same issue again and again. Hair would leave looking beautiful, but lacked strength, moisture and long-term resilience. That gap in the market became the foundation for REDAVID Haircare, which he founded in 1990 and continues to lead today alongside his son Marco Redavid.

That thinking still defines the line. Developed for both stylists and their clients, each formula is made with 60 to 99 percent naturally derived ingredients and designed to perform in real salon conditions. The Orchid Oil Collection has become a go-to for dry, damaged and textured hair, powered by clinically tested cymbidium orchid extract known to smooth the cuticle and restore moisture. A best-seller within the line, the Orchid Oil Treatment is a fastabsorbing serum that leaves hair soft, controlled, and protected from heat without weighing it down, making it a staple in the finishing process.

For more advanced repair, the Orchid Oil Dual Therapy System takes a targeted, two-phase approach. It works to restore both strength and moisture, helping improve elasticity, manageability, and overall movement in overprocessed or textured hair.

What defines the performance of the Orchid Oil line is Dynagen-R, REDAVID’s patented complex at the center of every formula. Molecularly similar to the natural protein structure of human hair, it helps address damage more directly rather than simply coating the surface. With continued use, it works to reinforce the hair’s internal structure, improving strength, resilience and overall integrity while helping it better withstand environmental stress and daily wear.

“Dynagen-R is really the ingredient that defines us and what sets us apart,” says Marco Redavid, President of REDAVID. “It’s one of the closest molecular matches to natural hair protein, so you don’t have to worry about over-proteinizing the hair or causing breakage. It allows us to strengthen the hair in a way that actually supports it, changing it from the inside out. REDAVID has always been about pairing science with nature, and Dynagen-R Sugar Cane Protein is the science behind that.”

COLORIST TO THE STARS

jacob schwartz on

summer

hair color predictions

by gabby bach

FROM MARGOT ROBBIE’S “GILDED BLONDE” for Wuthering Heights to Miley Cyrus’ return to Hannah Montana’s blonde for the 20th Anniversary special, celebrity colorist Jacob Schwartz is behind some of Hollywood’s most iconic hair color moments. He made a splash at the Academy Awards, creating looks for Best Actress winner Jessie Buckley, Mikey Madison, Chloe Fineman, and Bella Hadid. Now, straight from the red carpet, he’s sharing his insider insight into what he expects the latest summer hair color trends to be and how to formulate and maintain them.

SUMMER ‘26 TREND FORECAST

Schwartz, who is Schwarzkopf Professional’s U.S. Hair Color Trend Ambassador, predicts ‘90s-inspired color will make a strong return, but he anticipates the looks will be softer and lived-in but still glamorous.

“It’s really about richness, shine, and color that feels effortless but still intentional,” he says.

When it comes to specific trends, Schwartz shares what he’s seeing, fresh of the Academy Awards red carpet: “For brunettes, we’re calling it ‘Sultry Brunette,’ as you see on Mikey Madison,” he reveals. “It’s deep, glossy, and dimensional, with subtle variation that keeps it from ever feeling flat. The focus is on richness and movement. Hair that looks healthy, expensive, and full of depth.”

There’s two blonde trends that Schwartz sees emerging: “The first is ‘Soft Angel Blonde,’ inspired by Alix Earle. It’s bright but diffused, with a blended root that makes it feel effortless and

easy to maintain,” he explains. “Then, there’s ‘Sparkling Blonde,’ like Jessie Buckley. This look has more light-reflective dimension throughout the hair, so it catches the light in a really beautiful way while still feeling soft and natural.”

Of these shades, Schwartz predicts Soft Angel Blonde will be the color of the summer: “What I like about it is that it doesn’t feel overworked. You still have brightness, but it’s balanced with a slightly lived-in root and a tone that isn’t too ashy or too warm.”

TECHNIQUE & FORMULATION

Precision is key when it comes to translating these trends.

“These looks might feel soft, but they’re actually very controlled,” Schwartz explains. “High-impact foiling is key, especially around the face, but it has to be paired with gradient, layered toning so the color moves seamlessly from root to ends without feeling heavy.”

Schwartz advises professionals to focus on placement and restraint when creating these trends on their clients.

“You have to be intentional about where you’re creating brightness – around the face, the part line, and through the natural fall of the hair. That’s what makes the color read polished instead of overdone,” he adds.

The products you use are also crucial to making sure the hair maintains its health throughout the coloring process. Schwartz shares he uses Schwarzkopf Professional because its system works together to provide consistency and control at every step. “When your lightener, bond protection, and toner are aligned, the result feels more intentional, and it holds up, so the color looks just as good weeks later as it does the day you do it,” Schwartz says.

Here are the products he recommends to keep hair looking flawless:

BLONDME Premium Lightener 9+ delivers clean, predictable lift while maintaining the integrity of the hair, thanks to its integrated bond technology. It helps protect and reinforce the hair during the lightening process, which is key when you’re pushing brightness but still want the hair to feel healthy.

IGORA VARIO Blond Super Plus gives an extra level of lift, but still with control.

IGORA Vibrance is what refines everything. It enhances tone, adds shine, and creates that layered, dimensional finish without over-processing the hair.

CUSTOMIZING THE LOOK

When bringing these looks to life, it’s important to customize each based on the client, as trends are not one-size-fits-all.

“You have to adjust tone, placement, and depth based on the client,” Schwartz explains. “If you don’t, the color won’t translate

the way it’s supposed to. What works on one person isn’t going to work exactly the same on someone else.”

Schwartz shares that he focuses on the client’s skin tone, lifestyle and maintenance requests when deciding whether a color needs to be warmer, cooler or more neutral.

He will also make changes to the root and placement to make the grow out feel more natural.

“It’s really about translating the idea of the color in a way that feels right, not just recreating what’s in the photo,” he says.

COLOR CARE & LONGEVITY

Summer can be tough on color. Sun exposure, salt water, chlorine, and over-washing can all contribute to color-fading and tone being stripped from the hair. For this reason, it’s crucial to advise clients on how to best care for their hair between appointments to make sure their color maintains its vibrancy for as long as possible.

Schwartz’s advice? Treat hair like skin: “Protect it, hydrate it, and be mindful of how often you’re washing. When the hair is healthy, the color holds better and looks more reflective.”

He also recommends clients come in for refreshes between appointments to keep color looking intentional and consistent. He shares that he likes to offer his clients gloss services to keep tone fresh between appointments.

“I like using IGORA Vibrance Clear 0-00 as a gloss. It adds shine and revives the color without over-toning,” he says.

SHE’S A RAINBOW… ‘UNICORN BADDIE’

HAIR & PHOTOS BY MAGGIE PERRY

WORDS BY JEFFREY C. LUNNEN

THERE’S NO ONE DOING IT

LIKE MAGGIE

PERRY aka @ maggieMH. She approaches hair color like a true artist and is unapologetic, often pushing past subtle shifts in favor of high-impact, statement-making results that are expressive af. Known for dramatic before-and-afters and fearless use of creative color, especially pink, she treats every transformation as an opportunity to reimagine what hair can be. We caught up with her to break down one standout transformation and to get inside her process, intuition, and magic.

THE TEASE: What first drew you to specializing in hair color, and how has your approach evolved over time?

MAGGIE PERRY: “At first when I was in school and the rules and methods were so rigid, I thought I wouldn’t want to do much creative color in my career. But then I graduated and realized that I had so much more creative freedom and realized that I could use hair color as a true art form. As a born artist, I became super passionate about it. Over the years specializing in color, I have evolved to really focus on hair health and integrity –– not just results. That alone has helped me grow my clientele because people trust me to take care of their hair, even when we’re doing something crazy.”

For you, what factors — like hair integrity, lifestyle or maintenance — play the biggest role in determining the final color?

“Lifestyle is definitely the biggest factor for me. It’s really important for me to understand what someone’s lifestyle is like outside of the salon –– their job, washing schedule, styling know-how, etc. — because all these factors influence the color I can achieve for a client. At the end of the day, if they aren’t going to know how to take care of it at home and if their job has rules about their hair color, then an unconventional color and style may not be a good fit for them”

We know that you have a relationship with your model, Miranda, so, how do you typically approach a new client consultation when they’re considering a major color change like this? And since you have a history with Miranda, what was this consultation like?

“For a client considering a big color transformation, I always ask about their hair color history, lifestyle, budget, and ability to maintain

the color during a consultation. When it comes to Miranda, we had many long conversations about maintaining it and setting regular maintenance appointments. Since Miranda always prioritizes being on time for her appointments and is willing to do the work to take care of her hair in between appointments, I’m able to maintain this look for her and I feel like I can say YES to the fun, crazy, extra ideas we come up with together!”

Pastel shades can be tricky — what makes them different from working with more traditional color?

“Pastel shades are THE trickiest because you have to be able to lift the hair to a very high level while also maintaining the hair’s integrity. Not only that, but you have to have the right skills, the right products, and an endless supply of patience and TIME. I think many people don’t realize the mental energy that goes into something like this, and I think that’s a huge part of what sets it apart from traditional coloring; it’s less forgiving and it’s definitely not something you can just “wing it” with.”

Even though pastels have become more mainstream, there’s a lot of confusion. What’s the biggest misconception clients still have?

“I think clients can sometimes assume it’ll be quick and easy and that the color will last a long time, but obviously that’s not the case. The maintenance is a LOT and the color can fade aggressively. This is not a look with a lot of longevity, and it requires a lot more time and effort than people realize.”

Were there any specific references — fashion, art, or pop culture — that influenced this particular transformation?

“For this look with Miranda, honestly, WE set the trends. She is just such an iconic influencer and personality on TikTok, so her personal style naturally sets the trends. What we create together is THE MOMENT. We call this the “Rainbow Unicorn Baddie!””

Looking at the final result, what details are you most proud of that might not be immediately obvious to the average person?

“With Miranda’s final result, I’m especially proud of how even the light pink color turned out considering how dark her natural base is and how hard it is to lift. I take pride in having the patience to maintain evenness without any banding. And the threadwork on the extensions is meticulously done and I’m really proud of that too!”

Pastel shades are THE TRICKIEST because you have to be able to lift the hair to a very high level while also maintaining the hair’s integrity. Not only that, but you have to have the right skills, the right products, and an endless supply of patience and TIME.

— Maggie Perry

Hair & Photography: Maggie Perry

Hair Assistants: Laine Denigris & Keoni Zamora

Model & Makeup: Miranda Rae

your favorite color artists’ FAVORITE COLOR CARE AND MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS

by gabby bach

SUMMER IS THE PERFECT TIME for a color refresh, which means clients will be rolling into the salon! Whatever the look entails, it will need protection, especially in the summer heat. Between the sun, sweat, dirt and salted or chlorinated water, there’s plenty of external factors that can cause color to quickly fade or be stripped if it’s not properly cared for.

To make sure your clients are in love with their look all season long, the products you use in the salon and retail are crucial. That’s why we reached out to some of your favorite color artists for their recommendations on the best color care and maintenance products to have in your arsenal.

CAMERON KEPFORD: My color game has EVOLVED since starting with R+Color since its launch! The Bond-Tech Technology is designed to help protect the internal structure of the hair during chemical services. My clients love that it fades true to tone, and the shine is unparalleled!

1. R+Co Bleu Primary Shampoo & Conditioner’s new reformulation is pure magic! The feeling this gives the hair is luxurious. The clove extract is amazing because it protects the color from fading!

2. R+Co Sun Catcher is one of my daily go-to products! There isn’t a person that leaves my chair without taking this product home. It’s vitamin-C infused to prep or refresh while protecting from UV damage, frizz, pollution, and heat up to 450ºF. The hyaluronic acid hydrates and nourishes the hair WEIGHTLESSLY!

These products work seamlessly together because they’re all under the same umbrella. Each one acts like a layer of protection. When used in this order, they create a trifecta of care for color-treated hair.

CAMERON KEPFORD FOUNDER, HAUS OF HEIR R+COLOR COLLECTIVE MEMBER

LISA GILES: When it comes to maintaining vibrant color, I focus on products that protect the integrity of the hair while helping color last longer between appointments. One of my go-to products is the 3. Paul Mitchell Post Color Shampoo and Post Color Sealer. The low pH helps close the cuticle after a color service, which locks pigment into the hair and creates incredible shine. Since incorporating it into my services, I’ve noticed a real difference in color retention. One of my clients even texted me asking where she could buy the shampoo because she saw how much longer her color was lasting.

Another favorite is the 4. K18 Molecular Repair Hair Oil What sets this oil apart is that it doesn’t just smooth frizz on the surface. It works at the molecular level to repair damage that causes frizz in the first place. It enhances shine, boosts color vibrancy, and provides heat protection up to 450°F. I recommend clients apply a small amount before styling to keep the hair smooth, glossy, and protected while maintaining the health and longevity of their color.

LISA GILES

PARTNER

JPMS PRO

CEO, STRAIGHT OUT OF COSMO

@omgartistry

5.

6.

OLIVIA THOMPSON: Color maintenance starts before my client even gets out of the chair. The step most stylists skip, and the one I think makes the biggest difference, is finishing every blonde service with 5. Joico Blonde Life Demi Gloss Toners. This is nonnegotiable for me. Lightening gets you lighter, but the gloss is what refines the tone, seals the cuticle, and gives the hair that mirror-like shine that makes a blonde look genuinely expensive. I tell every client: the lightener does the heavy lifting, but the gloss is the magic.

Once they leave the salon, the responsibility shifts to their home routine. That’s where the other two come in: 6. Joico K-PAK Color Therapy Shampoo and the Joico Luster Lock Treatment. These two work in tandem, and I genuinely will not send a blonde client home without them.

What I love about this trio is that they work together. It’s a full system, not just individual products doing their own thing. The Blonde Life Demi Gloss Toners let me customize tone for every single client, which matters because no two blondes are the same.

Tone maintenance doesn’t stop when the client walks out the door. The K-PAK Color Therapy Shampoo protects color while keeping the hair genuinely healthy, and the Luster Lock Treatment restores the softness and shine that chemically treated hair loses over time. It’s packed with keratin, argan oil, and African Manketti Oil, which means it’s repairing and strengthening while it works.

OLIVIA THOMPSON

JOICO GLOBAL BLONDE SPECIALIST & BRAND STORYTELLER

VOTE NOW!

Our editors scoured your favorite e-retailers, brick-and-mortar boutiques, and professional distributors to track what’s actually moving the industry. They found what’s selling, what’s being restocked, and what’s consistently showing up behind the chair and in everyday routines.

THE RESULT: the best-selling, most in-demand beauty products across 40 categories.

These aren’t just the products with the most buzz, but the formulas clients request by name, the staples professionals rely on daily, and the products driving real performance across hair, skin, makeup, nails, fragrance, tools, and business.

Together they reflect what’s working in real time, and they are shaping what’s to come next.

BUT NOW THE POWER SHIFTS TO YOU, THE BEAUTY PROFESSIONAL.

The People’s Crop is where industry authority meets industry opinion, giving beauty pros the opportunity to weigh in on what truly deserves to rise to the top. From categorydefining icons to modern must-haves, these finalists represent the products defining beauty today.

This isn’t just about recognition, it’s about documenting what the industry actually uses, trusts, and stands behind.

SCAN THE QR CODE

and join us in casting your vote and show the world what professionals believe are the best of the best.

EXPERT ADVICE:

7 ways women can reclaim ‘niceness’ as their leadership superpower

by kelly ehlers

For years, women have received the same message about professional success: Be competent, be tough and never too nice. Niceness was framed as something to outgrow on the way to real power. When women led with empathy, clarity or warmth, those traits were often critiqued rather than seen as strategic leadership assets. Women learned to quietly adapt, leading through models built on dominance, endurance and emotional detachment — not because those models felt natural or effective, but because they were rewarded.

However, as burnout rises, engagement falls and trust in leadership erodes, it becomes clear that this approach is not only outdated but also counterproductive and harmful. Organizations are now confronting an uncomfortable reality: The leadership traits women were taught to suppress may be the very ones businesses can no longer afford to lose.

1. REDEFINE NICENESS AS CLARITY, NOT COMPLIANCE.

Too often, women have been conditioned to express niceness through people-pleasing or conflict avoidance — not because they lack conviction but because directness has historically carried social or professional consequences for women. Over time, this turned clarity into caution.

Real niceness looks different: It’s being willing to say the hard thing earlier, set expectations clearly and address tension before it calcifies into resentment. Leaders who communicate this way reduce confusion and build credibility over time.

This distinction matters because leadership behavior drives performance more than most leaders realize. When clarity is the standard, niceness stops being a liability and becomes what it was always meant to be: a foundation for trust, momentum and accountability.

2. LEAD WITH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE, NOT TOUGHNESS.

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is one of the most reliable predictors of leadership success, yet many women still feel pressure to suppress empathy in order to appear tough. For decades, women were encouraged to model male-coded leadership traits (emotional restraint, distance and authority) to be taken seriously. Today, as organizations place greater value on emotionally intelligent leadership, an irony has emerged: Male leaders may have more to learn from their female counterparts than the other way around.

Leaders who pause before reacting, read the room accurately and regulate their responses make better decisions under pressure. Emotional intelligence isn’t a soft edge. It’s the infrastructure that allows organizations to move quickly without breaking trust.

3. USE WARMTH STRATEGICALLY, NOT APOLOGETICALLY.

Leaders who combine competence with warmth tend to be more trusted and influential over time because their teams know what to expect.

The difference is intention. Strategic warmth isn’t overexplaining or overaccommodating, behaviors many women have adopted to preempt backlash. It’s choosing respect over intimidation, curiosity over control and consistency over fear.

4. STOP CONFUSING BURNOUT WITH AMBITION.

One of the most damaging myths in modern work culture is that exhaustion is evidence of commitment. Women, in particular, have been rewarded for endurance, absorbing extra work, emotional labor and responsibility.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Portions of this article were previously published on Forbes.com and have been updated for this version.

But burnout is a business risk that drives turnover, degrades judgment and erodes culture, and it’s disproportionately affecting women leaders over men.

Leaders who emphasize boundaries, prioritize well-being and set realistic workloads help create organizations that last. Reclaiming niceness includes being kind to capacity, including your own!

5. BUILD LOYALTY INSTEAD OF COMPLIANCE.

Fear-based leadership can produce short-term output, but it comes with hidden costs: disengagement, attrition and risk aversion. Niceness, grounded in fairness and consistency, can build loyalty. Employees who feel supported and respected are more likely to speak honestly, challenge ideas and stay through uncertainty. In fast-changing environments, that kind of discretionary effort is a competitive advantage.

6. LEAD WITHOUT SELFABANDONMENT.

Many high-achievers reach a point where success feels strangely hollow. The external markers are there, but the internal alignment is gone. For women, that disconnect often comes from leading in ways that require constant self-suppression.

Reclaiming niceness means choosing authority that feels anchored rather than performative and refusing to lead in ways that feel ethically or emotionally bankrupt. Power that requires self-betrayal is rarely sustainable.

7. REDEFINE WHAT ‘WINNING’ ACTUALLY MEANS.

The most powerful leaders in the room are rarely the loudest. They’re the most settled. They don’t confuse aggression with confidence or sacrifice with success.

Leaders who cultivate trust, communicate clearly and lead with humanity create cultures that innovate, retain talent and endure pressure.

For women, reclaiming niceness isn’t a regression. It’s a return to leadership that aligns with how humans actually work at their best and how businesses win in the long run.

Reinventing Alter Ego

by marshal hartman-rohrer

The beauty industry is small; small enough that there are very few brands I haven’t at least heard of. So when I was reintroduced to Alter Ego Italy in Las Vegas last year, it wasn’t the brand that was new to me, it was the person leading it.

Enter Steve Orzel, CEO of Pettenon North America.

I was invited to join one of the brand’s distributor’s, KEVIN.MURPHY MID-ATLANTIC, as Steve walked them through what was to come for the brand over the next 3 years. What stood out immediately wasn’t the pitch, it was the fresh perspective that Steve brought to it. Steve isn’t just trying to make Alter Ego Italy bigger in North America, he’s trying to make it smarter, more agile, and just overall better. In Steve’s words, it’s about being more intentional about where the brand shows up, who the brand partners with, and how the brand levels up its support of stylists behind the chair.

And that philosophy carries over into new product development as well.

Take Keep It Glossy, their new demi liquid system. Liquid toners aren’t new by any means, but they’ve become predictable and boring. Alter Ego Italy, as a parent manufacturer, has the advantage of pushing the category forward. Keep It Glossy is a new system with balanced pH, modern pigment technology, and a formula designed for longevity and integrity that’s truly an evolution of something stylists already use every day.

With Steve leading North America, that kind of innovation isn’t staying in Italy; it’s hitting salons across North America hard and fast. To find out more, follow @alteregoitalynorthamerica on Instagram.

Alter Ego Italy is a 2026 Distribution Disruptor finalist for reimagining how a European heritage brand scales in North America. With the appointment of CEO Steve Orzel, bringing executive experience from professional and consumer giants like BBI, Salon Centric, and Target, the brand has rebuilt its U.S. strategy from the inside out, prioritizing elevated distributor partnerships and deeper salon relationships. Rather than simply expanding distribution, Alter Ego Italy is redefining how premium professional brands integrate into the modern North American pro ecosystem.

UNDERSTANDING EPILOGUE’S INNOVATION

by gabby bach

For Danger Jones, the story was never meant to end with vivids, toners, and lighteners. From the very beginning, there was always another chapter waiting to be written. That chapter has officially arrived: Epilogue, the brand’s longanticipated permanent color line, is designed to redefine what stylists expect from modern color.

“From day one, permanent color was always part of the plan. That’s exactly why we named this line Epilogue,” shares Danger Jones Global Director of Education Doug Theoharis. “Permanent color was always in the bigger vision. Epilogue represents the final chapter of that vision.”

If the name suggests an ending, the technology and intention behind the line signal something else entirely: a reset.

With plenty up his sleeve in the year ahead, we chatted with Frausto to get an inside look into how color empowers his artistry.

BUILT FOR STYLISTS BY STYLISTS

At its core, Epilogue reflects the DNA of the Danger Jones brand: products created through behind-the-chair experience.

“Many of us on the Danger Jones team have spent most of our lives behind the chair in salons. We truly believe that products are better when they’re formulated by stylists, and Epilogue is no exception,” Theoharis says. “We created a permanent color line that brings artistry, luxury, edge, and innovation directly to the stylist community.”

That philosophy wasn’t just a talking point. It shaped the development process from day one. Beginning in mid-2023, the brand worked through extensive R&D, refining formulas without compromising quality or vision. Crucially, stylists weren’t just testing the product. They were helping build it.

FROM THE LAB TO THE CHAIR

Global Ambassador Chrissy Danielle experienced the collaboration firsthand.

Her introduction to Epilogue began with an invitation to travel to the lab in Bergamo, Italy to help with testing and formulations when she joined the team as Global Ambassador.

“The results are truly unmatched,” she says. “They’re exactly true to tone, and the coverage and shine are unreal.”

As a blonde specialist, she notes one key advantage: reduced warmth. “My clients noticed right away that their color wasn’t pulling too warm, which we see with many permanent lines.”

Epilogue’s high-lift shades have also become a standout in her toolkit, particularly for foiling techniques. “You can create beautiful golden blondes, and the best part? No swelling in the foils.”

A NEW STANDARD FOR PERMANENT COLOR

The Danger Jones team set out to create a permanent color line that’s easy to use and delivers exactly what stylists need every day: simple formulation, reliable gray coverage, bold reds, and rich naturals that are effortless to apply and long-lasting.

With Epilogue, they delivered. Built from the ground up with the best ingredients and simplified chemistry, it isn’t a reformulation – it’s a complete reset.

“Epilogue was built from the ground up to be modern, consistent, and simple,” Danger Jones Co-founder and Chief Product Officer Alexis Thurston says. “It gives artists something they can trust completely: reliable results without the workarounds we’ve all been forced to accept for far too long.”

While an epilogue typically signals a conclusion, with this launch, Danger Jones is ushering in a new era – and industry standard – for permanent color.

THE FUTURE OF BLONDE CARE IS

BRIGHTER

thanks to k18’s triplebright oxidation defense purple shampoo by jeffrey c. lunnen

EARLIER THIS SPRING, cult-favorite, bio-science forward haircare brand, K18, fully disrupted the purple shampoo category with its all-new TripleBright Oxidation Defense Purple Shampoo.

Pros know, traditional purple shampoos temporarily tone hair with basic color correction that can turn hair purple when used incorrectly (or overzealously by clients). They don’t actually target the underlying cause of brassiness: oxidation, from things like metals and minerals in hard water.

TripleBright isn’t a color-depositing purple shampoo. It features a next-generation, triple-action formula that not only neutralizes existing brassiness without turning hair purple, but the brand claims that 1 wash removes up to 3 months of brass from hard water*, while also defending against future brass. Part of that triple-action formula is a Biopolymer shield, which helps prevent metals and minerals from reattaching in future washes, which means blonde can stay blonde longer.

What’s more obvious, i.e. what you can see, TripleBright is delivered in a light, airy foam. This makes toning easier and effortless.

TripleBright spreads easily from root to tip for even, balanced results — without over-toning or leaving behind purple stains. It rinses clean, so you’re left with bright, fresh blonde and none of the usual mess. Or staining!

K18 recommends using 2-3 pumps of TripleBright purple shampoo per application. Just apply to wet hair, distribute evenly, lather from roots to ends. Let sit for 1-3 minutes then rinse.

The vibes may be off, generally, but your blonde doesn’t have to be. TripleBright offers you a little control, exactly where you want it.

*From K18hair.com: Results reflect removal of hard water minerals and metals equivalent to three months of unfiltered tap water exposure on bleached tress, based on scientific testing following 1 application of TripleBright.

BARBERING TRENDS

what to expect in men’s hair this summer according to barber nieves almaraz

by gabby bach

EVERY SUMMER BRINGS A NEW WAVE of haircut inspiration, but behind every trend is something deeper than aesthetics: strong technique, thoughtful customization, and a clear understanding of what works best on your client.

For WAHL Educator and NAHA Winner Nieves Almaraz, staying ahead isn’t about chasing trends. It’s about refining your craft, so you can execute any look with intention.

If you want to know what to focus on this summer, read on.

MASTERING THE FUNDAMENTALS

Before you can get into trends, you need to master the fundamentals first.

“The barbers who stay ahead understand shape, weight, and movement, not just what’s popular,” Almaraz says.

That means dialing in strong scissor work, texturizing, and controlled fading. These aren’t just baseline skills. They’re what allow you to execute trend-driven looks at a high level.

“Blending weight is key,” he adds, especially when transitioning from a creative fade into longer, textured areas. It’s that seamless connection that elevates the entire haircut.

THE CONSULTATION

If you want to offer the trendiest cuts in your barbershop, consultations are non-negotiable.

“Not every trend fits every client,” Almaraz says.

The consultation is where you set expectations, walking your client through how the haircut will grow out and what kind of styling it requires.

Customization is also a must: “Clients want individuality, but still need wearability,” Almaraz adds.

Adjust length, taper, and weight based on face shape and hair type. A warrior-style cut, for example, can be subtle and wearable or bold and expressive depending on how it’s tailored.

When it comes to balancing trends with your brand, the focus should stay on execution.

“Clean, consistent work will always outlast what’s trending,” Almaraz explains.

THE TRENDS

This summer’s trends are all about balance: structure with movement, personality with wearability.

For clients that want a bold option, the “warrior” haircut is a must. It’s a modern, textured take on the mullet, featuring length and movement on top, a shorter back, and a clean or creative fade.

Low, natural tapers are also gaining traction, offering softer finishes that grow out clean and require less maintenance.

Overall, Almaraz shares clients are leaning toward longer, textured tops and styles that feel effortless.

THE PRODUCTS

The right products bring these looks to life without overcomplicating them.

Matte pastes, clays, sea salt sprays, texture powders, and lightweight creams are all go-tos. They enhance movement and definition while keeping the hair soft and touchable.

The goal is simple: create texture without stiffness and a finish that feels as natural as it looks.

Make sure you’re following Nieves for his insights on barbering, mentorship and entrepreneurship.

MORE:

SPORT CLIPS HAIRCUTS SPOTLIGHT: 15 YEARS OF GROWTH

How Tina LoPresti Built Her Career

TTina LoPresti is a seasoned hairstylist, culture leader, and manager at Sport Clips Haircuts, bringing more than 15 years of experience to the company. After graduating from cosmetology school in 2009, she began her journey as a Sport Clips stylist, quickly advancing to assistant manager and eventually manager. Throughout her career, she has not only honed her craft behind the chair but has also earned multiple awards and recognition for her dedication, skill, and commitment to continuous growth. This dedication made her a natural choice to present at Sport Clips’ annual convention, the National Huddle, providing an opportunity that reflects both her talent and influence within the professional community.

Beyond her experience, Tina is known for her infectious personality, making her a true joy to be around for both clients and her team. That same energy carries into her work, where her passion for the craft is equally contagious. Inspired by her grandmother’s words, “there’s no point in dreaming if you don’t dream big,” she has built a career that truly reflects that mindset. As a proud member of the National Artistic Team and a coach in Missouri, she brings that same passion into everything she does, continuing to inspire, mentor, and elevate those around her.

From starting as a stylist to becoming a leader, mentor, and industry presenter, Tina’s journey is a testament to passion and perseverance. The Tease had the opportunity to sit down with her for an exclusive Q&A to talk about her career path, what continues to inspire her, and how she approaches growth in the ever-evolving beauty industry.

something I felt connected to. My family and I always knew this was the path I was meant for.

What made Sport Clips the place I chose to grow my career was the opportunity to be part of something bigger than just doing hair. It was the structure, the development, and the culture of growth. I quickly realized this wasn’t just a job, it was a place where I could build a career, develop as a leader, and impact others along the way.

Every stylist has that moment where things click. When did you start to feel truly confident in your skills?

My confidence didn’t come from getting everything right. It came from getting a lot wrong first. I made mistakes, I gave some bad haircuts, and I had moments where I questioned myself. But through the training and development at Sport Clips, both in classes and in-store, everything started to click. That’s when my confidence was built not just in my skills, but in my ability to grow. I would say this was about two-to-three years in.

In an industry where consistency is everything, how do you show up as a “pro” for every client who sits in your chair?

I show up as a professional by delivering more than just a service. I deliver an experience that’s personalized, intentional, and human. I focus on building real connections and understanding my clients beyond just their haircut or product needs.

Because many clients come in carrying something, and I’ve learned how powerful it is to meet them in that moment. As professionals, we have the ability to change someone’s day and that’s something I take seriously every time I step behind the chair.

How has working within the Sport Clips system challenged or refined your technique over time?

Sport Clips has played a huge role in refining my technique through the training and development opportunities they provide. I’ve been able to learn from industry leaders, expand my technical skills, and really understand the theory behind hair. That’s allowed me to elevate my work and approach every service as more than just a men’s haircut.

Mastery in this industry takes intention. What has your evolution looked like behind the scenes with Sport Clips that has helped you? Early in my career, I struggled with blending. I stayed safe, sticking to what I knew like scissors over comb even when it wasn’t giving me the best result. But the moment I understood the why behind more advanced techniques, everything changed. My haircuts improved, my clients felt the difference, and my confidence grew. That’s when I realized growth doesn’t come from staying comfortable, it comes from being willing to learn and evolve.

What’s one skill or practice you’re always looking to master?

I’m always focused on growth, especially when it comes to efficiency. I’m a natural talker, and I love building connections but I’ve had to learn how to balance that with staying on time and delivering a consistent experience. I’m also committed to growing in trending techniques and haircuts. This industry never stands still, and neither can we. Staying relevant, continuing to learn, and evolving with the industry is what allows me to keep getting better.

Being selected to present at the National Huddle is a huge recognition, what do you think elevated your work to that level?

What elevated me to this stage wasn’t perfection, it was being real. I chose to be honest about my journey, to share that it didn’t come easy, and to let people see the struggles behind the success. That authenticity created real connections. It helped others realize that they’re not alone and that no matter what they’re facing, they still have the ability to dream big and turn that into reality.

When you found out you’d been chosen, what did that moment mean to you as a professional?

When I found out I was given this opportunity, it meant I had the chance to inspire someone else who might see themselves in my story. Maybe even someone in that audience who is questioning their path, and needs that reminder to keep going, to keep growing, and to keep striving for more.

For me, it’s always been about impact. The ability to make a difference in someone else’s life. And this moment is a growth opportunity for me as well as something that is equally exciting and intimidating, but absolutely worth stepping into.

Standing on that stage, speaking to fellow stylists, what message or perspective did you feel was important to share?

Standing on that stage and choosing to be vulnerable in front of fellow hairstylists each with different levels of experience meant everything to me. More than anything, I wanted them to walk away knowing that their dreams can stay big, even when life tries to convince them otherwise.

This industry, in my opinion, is one of the most humanitarian there is. We have the ability to impact people in such a real, human way every single day. I wanted them to remember why this industry is so incredible.

No matter what they’ve been through, no matter where they’re starting from, the sky is the limit.

For other stylists looking to level up, what advice would you give about building skill, confidence, and longevity in this industry?

The advice I would give is to keep challenging yourself and not let the hard days win. Take pictures of your work so you can see your progress so you can look back and remember where you started and how far you’ve come.

Find a mentor who will challenge you, and lean into those uncomfortable moments, because that’s where real growth happens.

Most importantly, never stop dreaming and going after more. Your future self will thank you.

STROBE

A Collection from Brendnetta Ashley

Hair: Brendnetta Ashley

Hair Assist: Sharday Walker

Makeup: David Maderich

Stylist: Yachi G

Nails: Elena Leger

Photographer: Joseph Cartright

Models: Leone Symon, Pesy Theresa

In 2025, TheTease.com launched the Rule Breaker Awards to recognize the brands not just succeeding in professional beauty, but the brands redefining what success means. Brands that challenged convention, pushed boundaries, and proved there’s more than one way to lead.

In 2026, that mission continues.

Following an open nomination period from January 1 to April 1, the industry has spoken. The result: 35 standout finalists across ten categories, each representing a distinct way the rules are being broken today. Some are familiar names returning to push things even further. Others are new challengers already making undeniable impact.

Together, they reflect the ideas, energy, and evolution shaping what comes next. Now, the power shifts to you.

Inside this issue of PRINTED, you’ll meet the 2026 Rule Breaker Awards finalists. From there, readers can cast their votes for Rule Breaker of the Year in each category through our online voting portal, accessible via QR code.

This isn’t just about recognition, it’s about documenting the brands moving the industry forward in real time.

WHO BROKE THE RULES BEST? YOU DECIDE.

RULE BREAKER AWARDS 2026 FINALISTS

BRANDING BADASS

These brands aren’t just launching products, they’re building worlds. With unmistakable visual identity, bold storytelling, and a point of view professionals instantly recognize, they’ve set the standard for modern beauty branding.

R+Co — Every product functions as part of a larger narrative universe, turning the brand into a collectible, story-driven experience rather than a traditional product line.

KEVIN.MURPHY* — Rooted in fashion and editorial culture, the brand merges backstage influence with salon reality, creating a distinctly high-fashion identity.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

amika* — Instantly recognizable through bold color, graphic design, and irreverent tone, Amika has mastered maximalist branding that stands out on any shelf.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

OLAPLEX* — By stripping branding down to a numbered system and minimalist aesthetic, Olaplex created a new visual language the entire industry now recognizes.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

ORIBE* — The gold standard of luxury haircare branding, Oribe blends heritage, sophistication, and aspirational imagery into a timeless identity.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

CULTURE SHOCK-ER

These brands disrupted the industry conversation. By tapping into culture, identity, or subcultural moments, they challenged norms, sparked dialogue, and forced the professional beauty world to pay attention.

Schwarzkopf Professional — Through high-profile stylists like Tracey Cunningham, Jacob Schwartz, and Chris Appleton, the brand positioned hairdressers as cultural authorities beyond the salon.

Matrix (KATSEYE Collaboration) — By intersecting with music and pop culture, Matrix expanded its relevance and brought professional hair into a new cultural conversation.

RŌZ — A stylist-founded brand that bridges editorial, celebrity, and product, RŌZ redefines how tastemakers influence the professional space.

Cécred* — With a powerful cultural entry rooted in heritage and textured hair, Cécred challenged the industry to rethink luxury and inclusivity at scale.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Chris McMillan* — Leveraging decades of cultural influence, his brand launch signals the continued power of celebrity hairstylists in shaping beauty narratives.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

EDUCATION BOUNDARY BREAKER

For these brands, education is not an add-on, but a pillar. By offering elevated, experience-driven learning as part of their overall brand ecosystem, they’ve redefined how professionals are supported beyond the product.

Wella Professionals — Through initiatives like TrendVision, Wella has built an education ecosystem that blends competition, visibility, and career development.

Schwarzkopf Professional — A global leader in structured, artist-driven education, offering technical mastery alongside cultural relevance.

Cado Academy — A modern, independent platform delivering specialized, forwardthinking education outside traditional brand systems.

Hairbrained — Redefines education through conversation, community, and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing within the industry.

Goldwell — Known for its rigorous technical education and global consistency, Goldwell continues to elevate professional standards worldwide.

DISTRIBUTION DISRUPTOR

This award honors brands that reimagined how professional beauty reaches the market. Through bold distributor partnerships or unexpected activations, they challenged traditional distribution models—and made it work.

KEVIN.MURPHY* — Expanded accessibility through strategic partnerships like SalonCentric while maintaining a strong brand identity.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Alter Ego Italy — Strengthened U.S. distributor relationships to build a more cohesive and scalable presence in the pro market.

Maria Nila — Successfully expanded into new distributor channels, bringing a European brand into broader global reach.

Keune — Reinforced its U.S. distribution network to increase accessibility without compromising its professional positioning.

Hairstory — Challenged traditional distribution entirely by building a direct-to-stylist model centered on community and philosophy over volume.

ECO-ACTIVIST

Sustainability isn’t performative for these brands, it’s operational. From packaging to sourcing to measurable accountability, they’re proving that eco-conscious beauty can still deliver professional-grade performance.

Reverie — Combines clean formulations with intentional sourcing and packaging, proving sustainability can align with luxury performance.

Aveda* — A longstanding leader in environmental responsibility, integrating sustainability into every layer of its brand and operations.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Davines* — Merges science, sustainability, and design, with initiatives that extend from packaging to global environmental impact.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Keune — Continues to evolve its sustainability efforts while maintaining professional-grade results and accessibility.

Innersense Organic Beauty — Delivers high-performance clean haircare, challenging the notion that eco-conscious formulas can’t compete professionally.

SENSORY INSTIGATOR (NEW CATEGORY)

These brands provoked the industry by reimagining how beauty products are experienced. Through unexpected textures, formats, or sensory interactions, they turned application into innovation.

Alter Ego Italy — Reinvented the blow-drying experience with a tool designed for performance, ergonomics, and sensory ease.

Reverie — Focuses on tactile, elevated formulations that transform haircare into a ritualistic experience.

Function of Vex* — Pushes boundaries with unconventional textures and formats that challenge traditional product expectations.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Color Wow — Known for transformative, high-impact results that visibly and physically alter the hair experience in real time.

Epres — Introduced a weightless spray delivery system for bond repair, redefining how treatment products feel and function.

PERFORMANCE ANARCHIST (NEW CATEGORY)

These brands rejected the industry’s performance playbook. By defying formulation norms and challenging accepted benchmarks, they delivered results that rewrote what professionals expect from product performance.

K18* — Revolutionized repair with biotech-driven formulas that challenge traditional conditioning and treatment timelines.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Curl Cult — Modernized perming, transforming a dated service into a customizable, contemporary offering.

R+Co BLEU* — Elevated luxury styling by proving prestige products can deliver uncompromising performance.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Covet + Mane (Covet Labs)* — Developed the world’s first coloring system for extensions, redefining customization and service possibilities.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Innersense Organic Beauty — Demonstrated that clean formulations can achieve salon-level performance without compromise.

RISING REBEL (NEW CATEGORY)

Less than five years old and already rewriting the rules, these brands prove that disruption doesn’t require decades of legacy. With fearless ideas and fresh thinking, they’re influencing even the old guard.

RŌZ — A stylist-founded brand blending editorial influence with modern product development, reshaping luxury haircare.

Epres — A science-first brand simplifying bond repair through minimal, highly effective systems.

Function of Vex* — Challenges conventional product design with bold concepts and experimental formulations.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Chris McMillan* — A legacy stylist entering the product space with a fresh perspective, bridging past influence with modern relevance.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Cécred* — A culturally driven brand redefining luxury textured haircare and shifting the industry conversation.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

SECOND ACT SUPREME (NEW CATEGORY)

These brands didn’t just evolve, they took control of their next chapter. Through bold transformations in vision, identity, or strategy, they reasserted their relevance and authority in professional beauty.

Fanola — Repositioned itself through viral relevance and expanded accessibility, becoming a staple in both pro and consumer spaces.

Sebastian Professional — Underwent a striking visual and creative overhaul, reintroducing itself as a design-forward brand.

John Paul Mitchell Systems (JPMS) — Modernized its identity and sustainability efforts to remain relevant in a changing industry.

L’ANZA — Refined its branding and product storytelling to reconnect with today’s professional audience.

Kenra Professional — Elevated its visual identity and positioning, signaling a shift toward a more premium, modern presence.

RULE BREAKER OF THE YEAR (NEW CATEGORY)

The ultimate recognition of disruption in professional beauty selected by our editors from the finalists across all 9 categories. From cultural influence to product innovation to brand storytelling, they represent the ideas, energy, and evolution defining what comes next.

KEVIN.MURPHY* — Pushes boundaries with unconventional textures and formats that challenge traditional product expectations.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Function of Vex* — A master of brand world-building and strategic distribution, KEVIN. MURPHY continues to shape how professional beauty is positioned, taught, and accessed globally.

*2025 RBA Winner, 2025 Top of the Crop Winner

Cécred* — A cultural force redefining luxury textured haircare, Cécred has shifted the conversation around inclusivity, heritage, and scale in professional beauty.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

RŌZ — Blending editorial credibility with modern product design, RŌZ represents the next generation of stylist-founded brands influencing both culture and craft.

Chris McMillan* — A legendary stylist entering a new era, Chris McMillan bridges decades of cultural influence with a fresh brand perspective that reasserts the power of the artist in product creation.

*2025 Top of the Crop Winner

The Pros Pivot:

Why Stylists are Swapping Corporate Hair for Independent Hair Extensions Brands

In the evolving world of hair extensions, the professional landscape is experiencing an exciting shift. While major corporate suppliers have long provided a familiar baseline for the industry, many stylists are now discovering the unique advantages of a more boutique approach. This transition highlights a move toward partners who prioritize the soul of the business and artisan-level craftsmanship over massive scale.

For the modern stylist, the “independent brand” movement is about more than just finding a new vendor — it’s a strategic choice to align with specialized quality and personalized stability. It’s an invitation to step into a partnership that values the artistry of the chair as much as the product itself.

The Independent Advantage: Precision Over Scale

The allure of independent hair extension brands lies in their ability to offer hidden treasures that larger entities often overlook. When you partner with a brand like KmXtend Hair Extensions, you aren’t just buying hair; you’re investing in a business model designed to support the individual artist. Founded by a former hairstylist and lifelong cosmetologist, KmXtend was built specifically to solve the hurdles stylists face every day: inconsistent quality and inflated costs.

1. Boutique Efficiency, Professional Savings

One of the most immediate benefits of choosing an independent partner is the direct impact on your bottom line. Major corporations often carry significant overhead — from high-rent corporate offices to massive global marketing budgets.

By contrast, KmXtend operates with a streamlined, efficient focus. By minimizing unnecessary corporate fluff, we are able to pass those savings directly to you. This allows you to provide exquisite, salongrade hair to your clients at a significantly more accessible price point, without ever compromising on the luxury experience.

2. Unrivaled, Consistent Quality

In a smaller brand, reputation is the most valuable currency. While some may scale at the expense of detail, our commitment to quality is non-negotiable. At KmXtend, we focus on:

100% Premium Remy Human Hair: Ethically sourced, featuring full, aligned cuticles for a naturally soft, resilient finish. Double-Drawn Excellence: We ensure the hair maintains its thickness from root to tip, meaning the volume your client sees in the pack is exactly what they get on their head.

Artisan Durability: Our hair extensions are engineered for extended, beautiful wear, surviving reapplications while maintaining their luster.

3. A Personal Partnership

When you work with an independent brand, you aren’t just another account number; you’re a peer. This leads to a level of personalized, hands-on customer service that is rare in a corporate environment. Because the founders are often directly involved in the day-to-day, your feedback is heard, your color-matching needs are prioritized, and your professional success is genuinely celebrated.

4. Diversity and Customization

Independent brands thrive on standing out. To better serve the creative stylist, KmXtend offers a diverse range of products and dimensional blends that allow for a truly customized look. Whether it’s a specific texture or a unique hybrid weft, working with a boutique brand gives you the variety needed to master your craft and deliver flawless, bespoke results every time.

5. Supporting the Professional Community

Choosing an independent vendor is a vote of confidence for the entrepreneurial spirit within our industry. These brands are often the result of years of research and a deep passion for beauty. By choosing KmXtend, you’re aligning your values with a brand that prioritizes ethical sourcing, fair treatment across the production process, and the empowerment of fellow stylists.

Your Artistry, Supported

The shift toward independent brands is a celebration of quality, stability, and mutual respect. If you are looking for a vendor that delivers on the promise of luxury and a trustworthy partnership, your search ends with KmXtend. We’re here to ensure your confidence — and your artistry — never wavers.

If you’re interested in partnering with an independent hair brand as your new supplier, check out www.KmXtend.com .

INTRODUCING QOAT the goat new topcoat from alfredo lewis

by jeffrey c. lunnen

KNOWN FOR HIS TRANSFORMATION WORK and a highly engaged global following of over 4 million across social media platforms, Alfredo Lewis, in partnership with Aditi Sharma, brings his 30+ years of behindthe-chair experience to QOAT, the first professional haircolor topcoat introducing an entirely new category in salon color care.

Designed to seal, protect and extend the life of salon color services, QOAT is officially available in all SalonCentric sales channels including SalonCentric, Franchise and State|RDA stores, through a SalonCentric or State|RDA salon consultant or online at SalonCentric.com as of June 1st.

“QOAT is a love letter from hairstylists to our clients. I kept seeing the same issue behind the chair, color not lasting the way it should-and no real final step to protect the service – there was a clear gap in the industry,” said Lewis. “That led to the idea of a topcoat for hair, a simple step that helps seal and extend color while fitting seamlessly into the way stylists already work.”

Developed over two years with chemists and refined alongside a collective of leading hairstylists, QOAT introduces a new category and final step at the end of the color service. Powered by its HydraGlow Shield™ technology, the formula creates a lightweight, hydrophobic layer that helps lock in color, enhance shine and protect against environmental stressors. It is applied in just five minutes at the back bar.

Lewis told The Tease, “QOAT is applied at the back bar at the end of every color service, whether it’s semi, demi, or permanent hair color. We recommend 1 to 3 ounces, depending on your client’s hair length or density.” He adds, “It elevates the service and gives long-lasting color and intense shine. We recommend this as an add-on service, charging between $25 to $45. It only takes 5 minutes, then rinse.”

Aditi Sharma, Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer, brings nearly two decades of experience in brand building, marketing strategy and global go-to-market execution. Prior to QOAT, she held leadership roles at L’Oréal and founded EGAD Talent, where

she helped launch and scale beauty brands worldwide. Her expertise in brand strategy and commercialization has helped shape QOAT’s positioning and go-to-market strategy, defining a new category in professional color care and setting a new standard for how color services are finished and maintained.

“Clients are investing more than ever in their color, and expectations for longevity and performance have fundamentally changed,” said Sharma. “QOAT is designed to elevate the service itself, giving stylists a seamless way to protect their work while delivering a more premium, longer-lasting result for clients.”

QOAT launches with a stylist-driven ownership model, bringing together a group of influential hairstylists as shareholders and collaborators in the brand. Together, they represent a new approach to building professional beauty companies, rooted in real behind-the-chair expertise and direct connection to both stylists and clients.

“Stylists and salon owners are looking to preserve the integrity of their professional work and salon clients are looking to protect their professional hair color, maximizing the longevity and vibrancy of their investment,” said Vanessa Dusold, VP of Partner Brands for SalonCentric. She added, “This innovative product achieves all of this and is now available to stylist and salon customers who want to provide an in-salon service that ensures long-lasting color and peace of mind.”

june - december

CALENDAR

SALON PROFESSIONAL INDUSTRY EVENTS

June

CT Barber Expo

Uncasville, CT

Jun 6-8th

Redken Symposium

Las Vegas, NV

Jun 13-15th

Be+Well | Beauty and Wellness Show Las Vegas (formerly IBS)

Las Vegas, NV Jun 27-29th

July

Cosmoprof North America Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV

Jul 13–15th

August

Cosmoprof North America Las Vegas Las Vegas, NV

Jul 13–15th September

NYFW

New York City, NY Sept 8–13th November

Professional Beauty Association (PBA) Executive Summit Phoenix, AZ Nov 16–17th