NHBF data reveals the real impact of the Autumn Budget costs
Why activism in the hair and beauty sector matters
P30: SKILLS SHORTAGE
What is the government doing to help in the search for skilled staff?
P37: APPRENTICESHIPS
Taking a look at the proposed new level 5 aesthetics standard
P40: WELLBEING
Advice on protecting the health of both clients and staff
Bring out the best in curly hair with pro tools that deliver, including the Denman D38 Detangling & Styling Paddle to distribute product, detangle and define curls. Shape and style with the Denman D143 5 Row Original Styler then smooth hairlines, shape and finish with the Denman D91 Backcomber Brush.
5 Hello and welcome
Chief executive Caroline Larissey highlights the work being carried out to benefit Members
6 The 13 news things you need to read this issue
Spring-cleaning tips, the NHBF budget calculator and barbershop pop-ups in schools
THE BUSINESS
22 Activism
Taking a look at activism in the sector and how Members can use their voices and platforms to collectively call for change
26 The big report
The NHBF and Pragmatix Advisory share their budget impact report findings
Skills shortage
How is the new government planning to solve the current hair and beauty skills crisis?
Employment models
Keep to the right side of the law when considering new ways of running your business
What does the new level 5 aesthetics practitioner skin rejuvenation standard look like?
Discussing the ways you can protect the wellness of both staff and clients
How to...
Be more sustainable. Top tips from hair and beauty business owners
THE INSPIRATION
47 What’s trending Pinterest colour predictions, London hair looks and spa stats
48 Mood board
The latest posts of Members’ work that caught our eye!
THE END
50 60 seconds with...
The ‘Queen of Skincare’, Caroline Hirons
IS YOUR BUSINESS AT RISK OF UNDERINSURANCE?
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NHBF
CHIEF EXECUTIVE CAROLINE LARISSEY
In a world of constant change, your resilience inspires us all. The challenges we face aren’t just obstacles – they’re opportunities to transform our beloved sector.
Our Survive & Thrive initiative isn’t simply a programme; it’s our bold declaration that we refuse to merely weather the storm. Instead, we’re harnessing its power to propel us forward. And the extraordinary energy at our stakeholder event in January (see page 20) confirmed what I’ve always known – when our community unites, we become unstoppable. As we bring this movement to NHBF communities throughout 2025-26, I’m filled with genuine excitement for the transformation ahead.
Every resource we provide – from financial tools to political advocacy (highlighted in our cover feature on activism on page 22) – represents our unwavering belief in your potential. When government policies shift, we don’t just adapt; we pioneer new paths. When economic pressures mount, we discover innovative efficiencies. When talent development evolves, we set new
WHEN OUR COMMUNITY UNITES, WE BECOME UNSTOPPABLE
standards of excellence.
Our Straightening out the costs report (page 26) doesn’t just highlight challenges – it provides real tangible evidence, to fight our corner and illuminate the path forward. Our business calculator (page 15), energy-saving guidance, and apprenticeship support (page 37) aren’t just resources – they’re catalysts for your reinvention.
The NHBF digital credits displayed proudly on websites and windows across the country are beacons of the professional revolution we’re creating together. This is your moment. This is our moment. Every challenge conquered strengthens us. Every innovation shared elevates us all.
The NHBF stands beside you as a supporter and as your ally in transformation. Together, we’re not just surviving, we’re creating a thriving future.
THE C U T
PRICE RISES FOR MAJORITY
An unprecedented 78% of hair and beauty businesses plan to increase their prices in the next three months, the latest NHBF survey suggests.
be reducing staff or apprentice hours (47%) as well as the number of staff employed (47%) and business investment (41%).
Other key survey
The figure is the highest recorded since the NHBF launched its quarterly State of the Industry survey in 2020 and reveals the difficult decisions sector businesses face following the Autumn Budget announcements.
For example, in response to the budget’s 6.7% rise in National Minimum Wage rates and changes to employers’ National Insurance contributions, the survey found that businesses will
NHBF COMMENT
NHBF chief executive Caroline Larissey says: ‘The survey results paint a concerning picture of our sector’s future. The combination of rising wages, increased National Insurance contributions and reduced business rates relief is pushing many hair and beauty business owners toward selfemployed models, potentially ending decades of apprenticeship training that has been the lifeblood of our sector.
‘Without urgent government intervention, particularly around VAT reform and targeted support for small employers, we risk losing the traditional business model that has been central to high street vitality and community wellbeing. The NHBF is calling for immediate action, including a review of the VAT system, enhanced apprenticeship incentives and improved business rates support to help protect and grow this vital sector.’
findings include:
● 52% of businesses plan to implement price increases of 5–10%
● 31% of businesses report a decrease in their workforce over the last quarter
● 59% expect to reduce apprenticeship intake following the Autumn Budget
● 26% of businesses are planning to downsize or hand over their business
● 41% of businesses are currently making a profit
● 42% are breaking even
● 17% of businesses report losses – up from 14% in September 2024.
Along with the quarterly survey, the NHBF has conducted further analysis of the budget’s impact in its new report – Straightening out the costs. Discover the results on page 26.
2 NEWS IN NUMBERS
RETURNING MOTHERS
Are employers failing women who return to work after maternity leave? A recent survey of 8000 working mothers around the world, carried out by The Female Lead and female-focused app Peanut, found:
47% Almost half of women coming back to work after maternity leave are dissatisfied with employer support and leave their job within a year of returning.
77% Around three-quarters of respondents said that flexibility around unexpected childcare responsibilities was their most wished-for benefit.
54% More than half of new mothers polled simply wanted to be asked what they needed.
20% Those who felt most supported said they were 20% more committed and 30% more confident since returning to work.
Given that more than86% of the hair and beauty workforce are women, the findings provide the sector with food for thought.
Three hair and beauty companies have –literally – been given the royal stamp of approval in the form of a
ROYAL WARRANT OF APPOINTMENT
The Queen granted the marks of recognition to her favoured skincare brand, Heaven by Deborah Mitchell, as well as her longstanding hair stylist Jo Hansford. Meanwhile, Kent Brushes – which has held a Royal Warrant of Appointment during the reigns of 10 British monarchs, starting with King George IV in 1820 – received its latest mark from His Majesty King Charles III.
BOOKING INSIGHTS
Sharing its annual booking data, software provider Vagaro revealed in its latest Vantage report that:
26m
Women’s haircuts and hair extensions were among the most popular appointments booked, at 26 million and 23 million respectively 10m
10 million bookings were made at barbershops, 4 million of which were for men’s haircuts
27m
27 million skincare facial appointments were made
HAIR HEROINES
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, the Little Princess Trust has helped to
RESTORE THE CONFIDENCE AND IDENTITY OF MORE THAN
17,000
PEOPLE
since 2005. The trust, which provides free real-hair wigs to children and young people who have lost their own hair through cancer treatment or other conditions, has also given more than £20m to research looking at effective treatments for all childhood cancers.
61%
Brazilian waxes formed 61% of waxing searches
652,000
Cryotherapy is on the rise, seeing 652,000 bookings
500,000
Of the 21 million nail salon appointments booked, 500,000 were pedicures
23m
Lash services totalled 23 million appointments, with lash extensions making up almost a third of Vagaro searches.
YOU NEED TO RUN YOUR BUSINESS IN ONE PLACE!
Our Business in a Box health and safety packs are the solution you need to make sure you’re prioritising a safe and efficient workplace. Created for both hair and beauty businesses, the full packs can be downloaded and are FREE to Members. Printed versions are also available to purchase.
Scan the QR code, visit nhbf.co.uk/bib or call our team on 01234 831 965 to find out more.
TRADE MEMBERSHIP
BE NHBF ASSURED
The NHBF has launched its Assured Trade Membership programme for businesses serving the hair and beauty sector that wish to enhance their credibility and recognition.
The membership is a verification scheme that thoroughly checks hair and beauty suppliers, manufacturers, training providers and sector organisations via rigorous quality assurance standards and comprehensive vetting processes.
Representing the gold standard for businesses serving the sector, the scheme aims to be the hair and beauty equivalent of ‘Checkatrade’ or ‘Trusted Trader’.
The benefits to joining include:
● Exclusive NHBF Assured Trade Member digital credit
● Featured positioning in the NHBF Assured Trade Directory
● Enhanced business profile with detailed service descriptions
● Priority visibility to NHBF’s extensive membership base
● Independent verification of your business standards
● Clear complaint resolution procedures
● Annual quality assessments.
NHBF quality and standards partnership manager Sadie Brockbank said: ‘Running a safe, legal and profitable business is becoming increasingly difficult in these uncertain times, which is why the NHBF offers amazing support and business tools like the Assured Trade Membership to help navigate this. So, when Members want to choose from the best the sector has to offer, they know that they can trust the NHBF Assured Trade scheme.’
For more information, go to nhbf.co.uk/trade-membership
APPRENTICESHIPS
APPRENTICESHIP REFORMS
The Department for Education announced significant changes to apprenticeships during National Apprenticeship Week in February.
The reforms include the removal of English and maths functional skills exit requirements for adult apprentices, a reduction in minimum apprenticeship duration from 12 to eight months, streamlined end-point assessments and simplified payment systems.
For salon, barbershop and clinic owners, these reforms present several advantages:
● A faster qualification process for experienced adult learners
● Reduced training costs due to shorter apprenticeship duration
● Greater flexibility in workforce planning
● Improved ability to address skills shortages quickly
● Enhanced opportunities to attract career changers.
NHBF chief executive Caroline Larissey said: ‘While these reforms are welcome, we must address the significant challenge posed by increasing apprentice minimum wages alongside the need for more robust employer incentives.’
Read more at nhbf.co.uk/ apprenticeship-reforms
GIVE ME FIVE 5
Spring cleaning isn’t just about dusting and decluttering – it’s an opportunity to rejuvenate your business, creating an inviting and hygienic environment for both clients and staff
1
OVERHAUL YOUR RECEPTION
First impressions matter, and your reception area is where the client’s experience starts. Begin by clearing out unnecessary clutter – remove old magazines, outdated promotional materials and any items that don’t serve a purpose. Create a clean, welcoming space that makes clients feel comfortable and valued, adding fresh touches like seasonal flowers or plants to enhance the ambience.
2
STREAMLINE YOUR APPOINTMENT MANAGER
Review and optimise your appointment scheduling system. Consider investing in modern
salon management software that can help you to track client information, manage bookings and improve overall operational efficiency. A well-organised scheduling system reduces stress for both staff and clients, creating a smoother experience.
3
DEEP CLEAN AND STERILISE EQUIPMENT
The recent reports of increasing ringworm cases in barbershops should be enough of a prompt to apply a rigorous deep-cleaning protocol for all tools and equipment. Sterilise combs, brushes, scissors and other implements following health authority recommendations, paying special attention to sterilisation procedures to prevent bacterial spread and ensure client safety. This not only maintains hygiene but also demonstrates your commitment to professional standards.
4
CHECK YOUR INVENTORY
Spring is the ideal time for a thorough inventory audit. Go through your product supplies, dispose of expired items and donate unused products. Reassess your product line and consider moving towards eco-friendly and sustainable options (see the sustainability feature on page 44). These products not only benefit the environment, but will also appeal to your environmentally conscious clients.
5
EMBRACE SUSTAINABILITY
Spring cleaning is an opportunity to take more responsibility for the environment. Introduce eco-friendly options like implementing recycling programmes and choosing sustainable product packaging. These not only reduce waste but could also reduce long-term operational costs.
JOSH LAMONACA 6
Barber, global educator and founder of male hair grooming brand Menspire, Josh came fifth in the NHBF’s Top 100 Influencer Index 2024.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO COME FIFTH?
I was surprised, but definitely honoured, because I don’t really put a lot of passion or energy into my socials. I just throw up what I want, and people like it.
DO YOU SEE YOURSELF AS AN INFLUENCER?
I’d say that I’m influential, but I wouldn’t call myself an influencer.
DO YOU FEEL A RESPONSIBILITY WITH YOUR POSTS?
I do feel a bit of responsibility, but I definitely don’t put too much pressure on myself for what I post.
WHO DO YOU FOLLOW FOR INSPIRATION?
I have a wide range of influences, from spiritual beliefs to biohacking, both food and health-wise. I obviously follow artists in the hair industry, but I’d say I just follow very well-balanced profiles.
HOW DID YOUR CAREER BEGIN?
Whenever I went to the barbers, they could never cut my hair the way that I wanted it! So, deeply frustrated, I started to tackle my own hair at the age of 15, and eventually I started to practise on some of my friends. I realised I had a natural flair for it. Meanwhile, I was trying to become a professional footballer. Hair was just something on the side – a backup plan and a bit of fun. But I got better at it and eventually made it my immediate plan.
HOW DID THE EDUCATION SIDE TAKE OFF?
I didn’t really have any intention to get into education. I was naturally helping people at the college that I went to
because I had a little bit more experience than them and they came to me for some help, which I really enjoyed. It was just in my nature to help people, and that led me to become an educator. It really kicked off for us when the Menspire brand began to take off in 2014. Then, in around 2016, we started to receive international requests. From 2017, it really blew up and we became a global phenomenon for education and the men’s health sector.
WHY HAS IT BECOME SO SUCCESSFUL?
That’s the million-dollar question! For us, it’s always been about strategy, having structures and systems in place – both inside and outside of the business. Also, sharing – 100% ownership is not cool anymore. What’s important for us is to be able to share what we build with people, so that they become partners. In a franchise system, we understand that we’re not here to take the whole cake but to have a slice of every different type of cake – I think that’s the best way of putting it. This is a great way for everyone to win and to become successful, so this is one of the strategies that we use to build our brand worldwide.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
I really love doing hair for models for photoshoots and stage shows – it brings such a beautiful energy. I enjoy pushing the boundaries and surprising myself with what we can create.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF?
The general requests to cut hair in front of thousands of people. I’ve been to places like Bosnia, Albania, Kazakhstan – places where you think to yourself, ‘Are you sure they’re even interested in hair?’ – and to be invited to perform has a big wow factor for me.
WHAT’S IMPORTANT FOR US IS TO BE ABLE TO SHARE WHAT WE BUILD WITH PEOPLE, SO THAT THEY BECOME PARTNERS
WHAT’S BEEN A CHALLENGE?
I find travelling challenging. I like visiting all these countries, and once you’re there it’s nice, but the travelling part is a headache. I need a teleporter!
WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS?
We’ve just started to deliver some classes helping barbers and hairstylists with the business side of their lives – helping them to understand a little bit more about business and how to navigate running, maintaining and even scaling their business from one premises to multiple. So we’re looking at expanding this further and building an online community to deliver technical education and mentorship, and business education too. It’ll be a brandnew platform for people to join – watch out!
Souped-upsauna experiences are surging in popularity – most notably German ‘aufguss’, where a ‘sauna meister’ fans aromatic hot air to intensify the experience.
Aesthetic treatments are being individualised thanks to biohackingtools like epigenetic testing and hormone profiling, according to a report by insurer Hamilton Fraser.
Clients are increasingly seeking treatments without the chitchat. Spaseekers.com found that searches for ‘silent salons’ and ‘silent massage’ are up by 100% and 51% respectively since 2021.
WHAT’S HOT, WHAT’S NOT
Clients are spurning an overfilled face – tweakment experts have noted a move away from dermal fillers and towards skinstrengthening polynucleotides and biostimulating filler treatments.
Squaresare out – Instagram has updated its grid layout from a square to a rectangular format, changing how posts will appear on your profile.
Prompting the beauty industry to consider its approach to (mis)information, skincare brand The Ordinary is offering access to scientific beauty papers usually behind a paywall to increase consumer education.
TOP 100 INFLUENCERS 2025
To meet unprecedented demand, the NHBF is thrilled to announce that its highly anticipated Top 100 Influencer Index 2025 will be dividing into two distinct categories:
● Top 50 Hair Influencer Index
● Top 50 Beauty Influencer Index
Now in its fifth year, and as the event continues to grow, this index separation ensures a greater focus on the achievements of professionals across both sectors, giving more recognition to the creators, educators, and trendsetters shaping social media.
Entries are open to all hair and beauty professionals working in the sector who meet the criteria:
● A professional currently working in the hairdressing, barbering, beauty, spa, nails or aesthetics industries.
● Applicants should have an applicable qualification in the sector they are working in from a regulated awarding organisation, or equivalent continual experience working in the industry (5 years+).
To nominate, use the QR code below or go to b.link/top-100-2025
You can nominate as many people as you wish, including yourself, and we encourage you to post it on social media using #NHBFTop100Influencers #NHBFTop50HairInfluencers
YOU ASKED, THEY ANSWERED
What is the NHBF budget calculator?
Exclusive to Members, the NHBF’s Financial Impact Calculator – or ‘budget calculator’, as it’s also referred to – is a financial analysis tool to help your business.
Designed for hair and beauty business owners, the easy-to-use calculator isn’t just another spreadsheet – it gives clear, fast, actionable insights without the complexity of expensive accounting consultancy.
By simply inputting your business data, you can gain instant clarity on the upcoming National Minimum and Living Wage increases, National Insurance rate increases, National Insurance threshold decreases, and the employment allowance increase.
Other features allow for detailed staffing cost analysis to help with pricing strategy planning. You can also simulate multiple scenarios to prepare for different situations, and to refine projections and maintain profitability despite changing economic conditions – ensuring you’re not caught off guard by employment law changes.
KEY FEATURES
● A simple interface with clear instructions and explanations
● Comprehensive analysis of the April 2025 employment law changes
● Reliable calculations for immediate decision-making.
THE TOOL WILL HELP BUSINESS OWNERS TO:
● Make informed decisions about staffing levels
● Develop effective pricing strategies
● Create accurate cashflow forecasts
● Maintain profitability through economic changes.
The overall aim is to transform complex calculations into clear information, empowering you to make informed and immediate decisions about the future of your business.
There are two calculators available, depending on your business type. One is for hair and beauty businesses with multiple sites that can only claim employment allowance once. The other is for hair and beauty businesses with one to 30 employees.
The budget calculator is just one component of the NHBF’s comprehensive Survive & Thrive campaign. Find out more at nhbf.co.uk/ budget-calculator
NEW SCHOOL OF THOUGHT 9
Government-funded pop-up barbershops in South London schools are helping Black boys to share their fears and dreams.
THE IDEA: Kathleen Richards, SAFE taskforce commissioning lead at Lambeth Council, had the idea. ‘She wanted to do something around the barbershop and the impact it has in our community,’ says Godwin Deveer, CFO at Step Now, the programme’s delivery partner. ‘There’s research showing how there is a therapeutic element to that space. That translated into the council putting out a tender for the Barbershop Experience Initiative, which I then got wind of and applied for.’
THE AIM: ‘To create a safe space for Black boys to be able to tackle stuff that they wouldn’t be able to normally within their immediate support system,’ says Godwin. ‘Difficult conversations they would normally keep to themselves – bullying, selfharm, suicidal thoughts, stuff like that.
‘The space was designed to show that barbers don’t only do haircuts, they also create an environment where people can have conversations. We thought, if we could help these boys process their emotions, would that affect their school attainment, attendance and behaviour?’
THE BARBERS: High-profile celebrity barbers T Styles (see Inspiring Lives) and Ephraim Onyebule lent their skills to the programme.
BARBERS DON’T ONLY DO HAIRCUTS, THEY ALSO CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE PEOPLE CAN HAVE CONVERSATIONS
‘We reached out to barbers who we knew were having an impact on their communities,’ says Step Now co-founder Tony Adade. ‘These two have their own brands and shops that they manage, with barbers working for them. There have been loads of students taking an interest in barbering as a career because of the programme.’
BARBERING
THE PILOT: One of the schools that piloted the programme was Trinity Academy in Brixton. ‘We’ve got a really diverse cohort, and a lot of them come from very disadvantaged backgrounds,’ says vice principal Stefan Grabowski. ‘For those who don’t really have big role models outside of school, this was an opportunity for them to have certain conversations in a safe space.
‘It was a 12-week programme running after school, with a different theme each week. The pop-up barbershop had seating in a U-shape, and there’d be a short introduction from someone at Step Now. Someone would have been chosen the week before to get their hair cut or braided. The person in the chair would be the one leading the discussion and then the other boys would feed into that.’
THE OUTCOME: ‘We saw some real improvements,’ says Stefan. ‘The programme really helped children who were disengaged – whether it was poor attendance, poor conduct in lessons or interactions with their peers, or problems with regulation.’
INSPIRING LIVES
T Styles, barber and founder of Style & Groom in North London, explains why he got involved in the project.
‘I have a natural passion for helping kids who are still in school, because it reminds me of myself when I wasn’t sure about what I wanted to do.
‘There’s no real motivation for kids to be a barber. But when they see someone like myself – I’ve done a few campaigns [such as styling grime artist Skepta and rapper Chip] – they realise it can actually be a career and it’s an option for them.
‘Being part of the programme feels more than a good deed. It feels pure and the right thing to do.’
GODWIN ADDS: ‘When they came in, they were bouncing all over the place. But as the sessions went on, you could see how they took control of the space and they were being more attentive, more engaged, more vocal and sharing their personal experiences.’
AGM 2025
The NHBF’s 83rd annual general meeting (AGM) will be held at 1pm on Monday 7 July 2025 in central London. Agenda items include:
● Installation of the president and Board members
● Receiving the NHBF’s annual report and accounts for year ending 31 December 2024
● Appointment of auditors
● Any other decision requiring Members’ approval. Members are welcome to attend the meeting – please notify enquiries@nhbf.co.uk if you wish to. Only Members will be admitted.
SALONFOCUS SHORTLISTED
The award for Magazine of the Year was up for grabs at the Trade Association Forum (TAF) Awards 2025 in February. The TAF awards are supported by the Department for Business and Trade and recognise, reward and promote best practice among UK trade associations. While salonfocus was successful in making the shortlist, along with three other entires, we narrowly missed out on scooping the accolade for a third time.
Ray, Godwin and Tony of Step Now
NHBF OUT AND ABOUT
Take a look at what members of the NHBF team have been up to since the last issue.
APPG for Apprenticeships meeting
In February, we attended a meeting of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Apprenticeships in parliament with the interim chair of Skills England Richard Pennycook. The meeting was co-chaired by MPs Andrew Pakes and Toby Perkins with other MPs and peers also present.
The NHBF asked Skills England – the new executive agency within the Department for Education (read more on page 30) –about promoting the sector and how apprenticeships in the hair and beauty sector would be supported. Richard replied that although the sector doesn’t appear in the government’s industrial strategy, the sector would likely benefit from wider policy support and initiatives, so that we wouldn’t miss out. The importance of engaging with SME employers and making the system work for them was also discussed.
Campaign launch
What a fantastic day we had in London in January at our Survive & Thrive with the NHBF event! We were able to show everything we’ve been working on, including our new budget calculator (see page 15), to help Members with their business finances following the new government changes.
Thanks to everyone who joined us and made the day so special, especially our panel guests (below). You can read more on the event on page 20.
Panel 1: NHBF policy and public affairs advisor Rosina Robson, Matt Hutchinson from WorkNest, and NHBF Member Amy Green
Panel 2: City & Guilds senior product lead Emma MacKay, HPASG trailblazer chair Wendy Cummins, NHBF quality and standards director Cathy Weston, NHBF quality, standards and partnership manager Sadie Brockbank, and NHBF chief executive Caroline Larissey
MEMBER FOCUS
MORETHANJUST AHAIRCUT
By considering the overall wellbeing of her clients, not just their hair, NHBF Member Gemma Harvey explains how she’s changed her business for the better.
HISTORY
I began an apprenticeship as soon as I left school. I went into hairdressing because I thought it was easy. It’s not, but I ended up really enjoying it. After 10 years, I decided to open my own salon. I then became an assessor and started taking on apprentices myself.
In 2018, I was diagnosed with ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) and was told that I would have to give up work or I’d become bedridden. Unhappy with this prognosis, I researched the condition and found that many of the symptoms were connected to stress. This led my business ethos to become more about wellness, and to try to slow us and our clients down and learn the importance of self-care.
ALL CHANGE
In 2020, we relocated and became a health and wellness centre, which is three times the size of our original location and a totally different business. Now, when you walk through the door, we have a separate reception area that is calm and relaxed and doesn’t feel like a typical salon. The salon floor is also very calm because we have individual stations set up so that each stylist’s area is separate from one another, limiting the noise travelling across the room. We have a relaxation lounge with music and books for clients to use while their colours are taking.
While limited on the amount of hairdressing that I can do, I’m focusing more on the wellness side of the business by supporting the therapists in offering a wide range of holistic therapies – things that have helped me to manage my condition – so that I can help others. I’ve
FOCUS FACTS
Salon name: GH Hair Design
Owner: Gemma Harvey
Membership no: 4011764
Location: King’s Lynn
Established: 2011
Web: ghhairdesign.co.uk
IG: @ghhairdesign
also started hosting wellness workshops once a month, where I educate clients on how to lower their stress levels, strengthen their mindset and be the best version of themselves. We’ve had great feedback – we’re so proud.
CLIENTELE
Our main clientele are busy people looking for that little sense of calm, and we try to help them however we can. For example, one of my clients wanted to take up yoga, but was too scared to go to a class, so we created one in the salon and we now have six ladies who come to do yoga every Monday evening. All of them have said they wouldn’t have done yoga if it hadn’t been for the salon.
THE NHBF SAYS:
Gemma’s remarkable journey embodies the essence of our Survive & Thrive initiative. Her story powerfully demonstrates how business sustainability isn’t just about numbers – it’s about adapting, innovating and finding new ways to serve clients. By transforming personal challenges into an opportunity to reimagine what a salon can be, Gemma has created a wellness-focused business model that champions professional excellence while meeting evolving client needs. Her innovative approach and success shows how our sector can thrive by thinking differently and putting both client and staff wellbeing at the heart of everything we do. It also showcases that our Members are not just running businesses – they’re creating sanctuaries that transform lives.
USP
Our motto at GH Hair Design is: ‘Taking care of you, not just your hair.’ What makes us unique is our relaxation lounge and the quiet, calm, bespoke one-to-one salon experience that we pride ourselves on. When you get an overall salon experience that makes you feel good on the inside, it’s more than just a haircut.
BEING AN NHBF MEMBER
Becoming a salon owner is very daunting – I wanted to know that I was getting things right from the start – and my NHBF membership reassured me that I was. I know that if I need anything, like advice or resources, it’s there and I am covering everything I need to.
CHANGE SUPPORTING EXCELLENCE THROUGH
NHBF campaign marketing manager
Bethany Leaver shares the highlights of the first Survive & Thrive with the NHBF event.
‘The overwhelming success of our Survive & Thrive with the NHBF: Supporting Excellence Through Change event has reinforced my belief in the resilience and adaptability of our hair and beauty sector,’ said NHBF chief executive, Caroline Larissey. ‘Bringing together stakeholders including business owners, education professionals and government representatives, created a powerful platform for meaningful dialogue about the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead.’
The event, which took place at the end of January, marked the official launch of the bold Survive & Thrive initiative, designed to support sustainable growth, champion professional excellence, and protect Member interests. The afternoon not only provided a forum to discuss and address key issues affecting the sector now and in the immediate future, but also an opportunity to showcase the NHBF’s comprehensive approach to ensuring Members are fully equipped both ahead of and throughout the new financial year.
servi particula solu our calculator an in a Box’ reso specifically to navigate the u Insurance co expr When refle of NHBF mem attend owner Am th
Vital services
‘I’m particularly proud of the practical solutions we’ve unveiled, including our new budget calculator and thorough ‘Business in a Box’ resources, created cally to help business owners navigate the upcoming National Insurance contribution changes,’ Caroline expressed. ecting on the value of NHBF membership, event and panel attendee and business owner Amy Green shared how vital the services have been for her, stating how
‘they support your lifeline as a business’ and have saved her a lot of money. She also spoke about navigating the ‘unprecedented times’ that sector businesses are going through right now, and highlighting how as business owners it’s important to ‘listen to your gut and your intuition’ to drive forward.
Sector needs
The diversity of the audience brought valuable perspectives to the table, emphasising the need for both short-term adaptability and long-term strategic planning. The interactive, topical panels and exchanging of ideas, along with the collective sense of purpose, set the tone for the year and the ongoing Survive & Thrive programme – one that promises to progress in response to sector needs.
Caroline echoes this, sharing how it is only the first step in our enhanced support journey: ‘The NHBF is committed to rolling out additional resources, advocacy initiatives, and business tools over the coming months to address the evolving needs of our Members. We’re already developing expanded guidance on employment models, specialised financial planning resources, and strengthening our government relations strategy to ensure voices continue to be heard where decisions are made.’
She adds: ‘Together, we’ve built a strong foundation, and the best is yet to come. I’m excited to soon announce even more comprehensive support packages as we continue our commitment to empowering every NHBF Member to not just sustain their business, but to truly thrive and excel in this dynamic sector.’
For more on the Survive & Thrive campaign, plus resources and information on upcoming events, go to nhbf.co.uk/survive-and-thrive 21
Why does activism in the hair and beauty sector matter, and how can professionals use their platform?
WORDS ANNA SCOTT
COLLECTIVE VOICE
'Women hate Andrew Tate’, reads the pink neon sign on the wall in M1 Nails in Manchester. So far, 1.8 million X users have viewed a photo of the sign posted in August 2024. The post sparked debate: some commenters applauded the sentiment, some scoffed, others said they didn’t want to see the controversial social media figure’s name in a salon.
The sign reflects a growing global trend in the hair and beauty sector for professionals to use their job and social media presence to make political statements and launch campaigns on issues such as climate change.
For example, Green Salon Collective encourages hairdressers to have conversations with clients about sustainable haircare, and for clients to be able to reduce their environmental impact through their hair routines.
‘On the back of a pilot study, some practitioners said they needed more information to feel confident doing it, however,’ says Rosina Robson, NHBF director of policy and public affairs.
Whatever activism professionals engage in, they should be authentic, she says. ‘Make sure that your words are in line with your business brand and objectives. For example, if you’re talking
about sustainability or human rights issues, make sure you’re using sustainable products.’
Should we voice opinions on the shop floor?
NHBF chief executive Caroline Larissey stresses that professional judgement is key when discussing strong opinions on current events or industry issues on the shop floor. ‘While many clients appreciate engaging in meaningful conversations with their hair and beauty professional, others prefer to focus on their services – reading the room and following your client’s lead helps create the most comfortable atmosphere for everyone,’ she says.
Richard Marshall, NHBF Board member and founder and CEO of Pall Mall Barbers in London, agrees. ‘Always put your client’s needs and values first to build a great 360° experience for them,’ he says. ‘If clients bring it up, you have a choice to engage or talk about something else, lead with open questions and go with the flow.’
That said, hair and beauty businesses have a powerful platform and important voice, especially for issues directly affecting them. ‘We are at the coalface of the industry,’ says Fiona Johnston, chair of the NHBF Policy Advisory Board and owner of Trigg Hair Studio in Edinburgh. This is particularly important given
Rosina: ‘If you’re too negative, people will switch off. When we meet with ministers and the government, we are keen to be positive about what the sector contributes to the economy, society and wellbeing. We’re about providing the evidence and impact but providing constructive and costed solutions too.’ j p , y g p y p g
TIPS
GETTING HEARD
TOP TIPS FOR GETTING YOUR VOICE HEARD
Fiona: ‘Determine what your best platform is and if it’s appropriate to be making statements there. Be frank and direct, persevering and accurate with information. Campaigning in numbers and using published evidence can be more valuable at a time of needing to get things done.’
Richard: ‘I have learnt when working at a high level – like a council meeting at 10 Downing Street and the Department for Business
and Trade – that being professional and getting your point across respectfully will get you invited back, and you become trusted for your view.’
current challenges the sector faces, including the latest rise in employer National Insurance contributions.
‘Social media has empowered hair and beauty professionals to connect and advocate for sector improvements,’ says Caroline. ‘When used thoughtfully, these platforms can create meaningful dialogue and positive change. However, it’s important to maintain professionalism and verify information before sharing.’
A political history
Political activism in the sector is not new. Tiffany M Gill, associate professor at Rutgers University in the US, has studied Black women’s political activism in the beauty industry. She found that the first generation of AfricanAmerican women born free from slavery in the US began moving to cities and wanting to change their aesthetic.
‘They started these beauty
companies, and from the very beginning this political motive was embedded in their quest for beauty and their own business,’ she says. ‘For example, Madam CJ Walker, the mother of the Black beauty industry, would bring together salon owners, manufacturers and salespeople,
and they’d write letters to President Woodrow Wilson about anti-lynching legislation. They saw themselves having a collective voice to speak about larger issues.’
In the 1950s and 1960s, political activism within salons became very well organised. Salon owners would take clients to register to vote, for example. ‘We have to think about the importance of the beauty shop within African-American communities,’ Tiffany says.
EVERY SPACE CAN BE CLAIMED FOR POLITICAL ENDS IF WE JUST THINK ABOUT IT
‘It was one of the few spaces where there were almost exclusively only Black women, and they could control the space.’
The NHBF has launched a campaign toolkit as part of its Survive & Thrive initiative – to support Members getting involved in lobbying and activism (see Resources). The kit includes customisable materials, including social media content and graphics, digital campaign assets, and step-by-step guidance on organising community support and coordinating with national initiatives.
t is dedicated to M o embbers andg d abou alingwithyourlocalMPorlocalrepresentative, ut ’
‘It is dedicated to Members and gives tips about dealing with your local MP or local representative,’ Rosina says. ‘There’s a template MP letter to use raising issues with the Autumn Budget, local press release templates, and top tips on lobbying.’
, s or r
Later this year, the NHBF will update on the progress made after the launch of its manifesto for government in 2024, setting out its vision for the future of the sector and key asks of policymakers.
Should professionals see themselves as activists?
Space and proximity play a very important role in activism. One programme in Austin, Texas, trained Black beauty professionals to help clients experiencing domestic and sexual violence – they might see a bruised neck and can gently talk to the client about it (the Cut it Out initiative in the UK is similar). ‘The act of physical touch shows the intimacy that is created in the salon,’ Tiffany adds. ‘And so many beauty professionals I have spoken to talk about their roles as being therapists.’
This kind of activism is not necessarily replicable online. ‘But social media
reminds us that every space can be claimed for political ends if we just think about it,’ says Tiffany. ‘We don’t have to wait to inherit some kind of political institution – we can use the spaces we are already engaged in.’
But is it advisable that hair and beauty business owners position themselves as activists – could they leave themselves open to abuse?
‘I think disagreement is the chatter and energy of a salon, as long as people can respectfully do it,’ Tiffany says. ‘There is a certain expectation that it is a kind of public square. But with social media, people cannot control what happens to a narrative.’
Calling for change
Wherever the activism is taking place, the collective voice is critical. ‘The NHBF has an important role in representing its Members collectively, and collaborating with other sector organisations showing a united front to government,’ Rosina says. ‘The Member voice is really powerful with MPs in particular, as local representatives. While the NHBF can launch campaigns, research and evidence, Member stories and case studies are really important to underpin this in influencing and convincing decision-makers.’
There’s still a role for everyone. ‘It may not feel like it, but you have the power to educate, inform and ask your local MP to take action on your behalf,’ Rosina adds. ‘It’s their job to represent you. It’s important that they know the reality of how the sector will be impacted, that they share these stories within their political parties to help develop policy, particularly inside the Labour Party in government.’
Activism takes many different forms, and it can be about a political or human rights issue close to a professional’s heart, or something affecting the whole sector. However professionals choose to speak out, their voices are powerful, and there is plenty of support and guidance to help them out there.
RESOURCES
● NHBF Campaigning for you: nhbf.co.uk/campaigningfor-you
The results of the latest NHBF report into the effects of the Autumn Budget on hair and beauty businesses are deeply concerning, as NHBF director of policy and public affairs Rosina Robson explains.
DEEPIMPACT
During these challenging economic times, the NHBF is actively advocating for your business interests. And to understand the ramifications of the Autumn Budget on the hair and beauty sector, the NHBF partnered with Pragmatix Advisory Ltd to conduct a comprehensive impact report: Straightening out the costs
The numbers
The findings were troubling, revealing a landscape shaped by escalating wage rates, increased National Insurance contributions (NICs) and business rates changes, leading to an additional £139m in costs for the sector. In response, businesses are being compelled to make strategic changes, such as raising prices, reducing staff hours and re-evaluating their operational models.
around 220,000 individuals, making the sector a crucial source of jobs and economic activity across the country.
One of the industry’s defining characteristics is its strong female leadership – 87% of people working in the hair and beauty sector are women, highlighting its role in fostering female entrepreneurship. And a large proportion of staff are under the age of 34, reflecting the industry’s appeal to young people, who are driving innovation and change.
What’s changing?
The hair and beauty sector is going through a period of transformation, with several important economic shifts expected to affect businesses.
The hair and beauty sector plays a major role in the UK economy, contributing an estimated £5.8bn per year. This thriving industry is made up of approximately 50,000businesses, from independent salons and mobile practitioners to larger establishments. Together, they employ
One of the most pressing concerns is therise in labour costs (see Rising costs: a breakdown), which are projected to increase by £100m across the sector. This will put further pressure on businesses, many of which already operate on tight margins. The planned increase in employer NICs is set to add another £100m to the sector’s financial burden, making it costlier for businesses to maintain current workforce levels.
Profitabilityis also expected to take a hit, with industry forecasts predicting a 15% decline in profits and sector turnover to decline by £20m. This is likely to result from a combination of rising costs, economic uncertainty and changing consumer spending habits. Sector contributions to corporation tax are also set to decrease by 17%.
Another notable shift is the anticipated0.5% decline in VAT revenue to the government – a £2.5m drop. This could indicate reduced consumer spending in the sector or a shift in business models, such as more self-employed professionals operating outside traditional VAT thresholds.
THIS THRIVING INDUSTRY IS MADE UP OF APPROXIMATELY 50,000 BUSINESSES, FROM INDEPENDENT SALONS AND MOBILE PRACTITIONERS TO LARGER ESTABLISHMENTS
RISING COSTS: A BREAKDOWN
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
As a business owner or professional, there are several proactive steps you can take to safeguard your business and adapt to financial pressures...
1 REVIEW YOUR PRICING STRUCTURE
Assess whether adjusting your pricing model could help offset rising costs while remaining competitive. Small, strategic increases may help protect your profit margins without significantly affecting customer retention. nhbf.co.uk/pricing-blog
2 EVALUATE STAFFING NEEDS
Consider whether there are opportunities to optimise staffing levels while maintaining service quality. This might involve reducing hours, restructuring roles, or implementing new scheduling strategies to manage labour costs effectively. The NHBF budget calculator could help with this. Read more on page 15. nhbf.co.uk/budget-calculator
3
STAY INFORMED
Keep up to date with NHBF communications, industry updates and resources. Accessing expert guidance and staying aware of policy developments can help you make informed decisions and take advantage of any new support measures.
How are businesses responding?
Faced with rising costs and increasing financial pressures, many businesses in the sector are having to make difficult decisions to remain viable.
One of the most common responses to financial strain is price increases
A significant 72% of businesses in the sector plan to raise prices to compensate for higher operational costs – the highest rate we have seen since the start of our quarterly State of the Industry surveys in 2020. While this may help businesses maintain their profit margins, it also risks reducing customer demand, particularly in a cost-conscious economic climate. Changes to staffing structuresare also on the horizon. To manage labour costs, 45% of businesses intend to reduce staff working hours, which could affect service availability and employee earnings. Another 45% anticipate making redundancies, with an average reduction of 2.7 full-time positions and one apprentice per business. This could have wider consequences for the sector and the broader job market, with fewer employment opportunities.
Some businesses are looking at more fundamental structural changes to their operating models. Around 19% of businesses, or approximately 9370 companies, are considering a shift towards a self-employed model. This would see more professionals working as freelancers rather than salaried employees – a move that could reduce costs for business owners but also shift financial risk onto individual workers.
required minimum wage increases, ensuring compliance with new regulations. On the other hand, 46% of businesses are eager to go above and beyond the mandated increase, potentially offering additional wage enhancements to attract and retain skilled staff while fostering positive workplace morale.
The NHBF’s action plan
As the sector navigates a challenging financial landscape, the NHBF is actively working to support Members through a range of strategic initiatives. Recognising the pressures faced by businesses, the NHBF is focusing its efforts on influencing government policy, advocating for financial relief and providing practical resources to help businesses adapt.
A major area of action is government lobbying. The NHBF is in ongoing discussions with ministers and officials to push for much-needed reforms in areas such as VAT, business rates and employer incentives for taking on apprentices. These financial mechanisms have a significant effect on the sector’s profitability, and we’re working to secure changes that would ease the financial burden on businesses. We are also engaging with the chancellor to submit recommendations for the upcoming spring fiscal statement, aiming to address specific industry issues and propose solutions for sustainability and growth.
of any new support measures. nhbf.co.uk /news
across the sector. In terms 54% of businesses a committed to the
Wage strategiesshow an interesting diversity across the sector. In terms of salary adjustments, 54% of businesses are committed to implementing the legally
STRUGGLE FOR
2025 is going to be a challenging year for hair and beauty businesses, so what is the new government doing to help the sector in its search for skilled staff ?
WORDS KATIE SMITH
Some 3400 people will start hair and beauty apprenticeships across the UK this year – a huge fall from the 15,500 in 2016/17 in England alone. Recruiting skilled professionals remains a concern for the sector, thanks to reduced apprenticeship starts and fewer experienced staff.
In the three months to September 2024, businesses struggled most with recruiting senior stylists, according to the NHBF’s quarterly State of the Industry Survey (see Resources). And general recruitment intentions remain muted: only 15% of respondents said they were likely to take on staff in the last three months of 2024, while only 8% intended to employ apprentices.
This is worrying, with 75% of businesses saying it’s harder to recruit now than 12 months ago. The reality is that many can’t afford it.
Kelly Shaw, founder of k:SPA beauty salon in Fareham, salon business coach and NHBF Board member, says: ‘There is a lack of understanding about career paths in the sector, so a lot of young people don’t consider hair, beauty or barbering. It doesn’t help that it has a reputation for long hours and poor pay – yet there are opportunities for success in all areas.’
Kelly, who also co-chairs the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) hair and beauty route panel (along with NHBF vice president Jamie Mettyear), adds: ‘The lack of apprenticeship funding hasn’t helped and many businesses are finding it costly to hire and train apprentices, which affects staff availability. At the other end, worryingly, you have a lot of people going freelance or selfemployed sooner – straight after training, sometimes – to get more flexible working patterns or earn more.’
Lesley McCormack, managing director at Michaeljohn Training School, agrees: ‘If learners lose apprenticeships for financial reasons, there is little opportunity to reposition them. This is negatively affecting apprentices, government data
A FIT-FOR-PURPOSE SKILLS SYSTEM
During a debate in the House of Lords about the IfATE Bill, minister for skills Baroness Jacqui Smith said: ‘Skills England will help the skills system become more agile and responsive by identifying what skills are needed where in the economy, supporting our industrial strategy and securing the availability of high-quality qualifications that meet those needs.’
on the sector and training provider performance measures. The sector is in crisis and urgent financial intervention is needed if it’s going to survive.’
With increased business costs and wage rises on the horizon, what’s the solution?
The UK’s Labour Government has pledged to support the sector with Skills England – a new government body that will essentially be a continuation of IfATE, which will cease to exist under plans being debated in parliament at the time of going to press (see A fit-forpurpose skills system).
A joined-up approach
Flexible apprenticeships and redistributed funding could be among the changes. Nahid Mortuza, head of hair and beauty at IfATE, says: ‘Skills England will enable shorter apprenticeships. At the moment, an apprenticeship has to be 12 months minimum – longer than needed for a lot of occupations within hair and beauty. The scope for funding to be used for shorter apprenticeships is really positive.’
Around
18,500 people left the hairdressing and beauty sector during 2022/23
Foundation apprenticeships are also being developed. ‘These are for school-aged people who know they want to get into a certain sector but aren’t sure what occupation,’ Nahid explains.
‘Once they have a foundation apprenticeship and understand more about what the sector does, how it operates and the skills you need to work in it, they can select a course or apprenticeship. It opens the sector up for people who might not have considered it, but also shows how peopled-focused skills can be used to create a career.’
The Apprenticeship Levy will become the Skills and Growth Levy, and will become available for non-apprenticeship training. Level 7 apprenticeship funding will end so funding can be used for level 2 and level 3 training.
Nahid adds: ‘Skills England will build on IfATE’s work, bringing more people to the table.’ These people will include employers, local government, training providers, trade unions and professional bodies such as the NHBF, all of whom ‘will be closer aligned’, she says.
‘Hair and beauty is one of the few female entrepreneurdominated sectors, and there’s so much within it that’s vibrant and unique. The idea is not to curtail that, but to encourage it to grow.’ 75% of hair and beauty businesses think it’s harder to recruit now than a year ago
TIMELINE FOR CHANGE
September 2024: Skills England releases its first report, setting out major skills challenges and assessing the needs of the economy.
January 2025: The next phase of the industrial strategy, which will underpin much of Skills England’s work, is released.
April 2025: Legislation to establish Skills England is expected to be passed.
WE’RE COORDINATING WITH GOVERNMENT, SKILLS ENGLAND AND THE DEPARTMENT FOR EDUCATION TO EXPLORE INNOVATIVE TRAINING MODELS
THAT HAVE PROVEN SUCCESSFUL IN OTHER AREAS
OF OUR SECTOR
Sector support
The NHBF welcomes the joinedup approach and is spearheading efforts to overcome the apprenticeship challenges.
Through advocacy and industry coordination, the NHBF has achieved successes with new level 2 standards for hairdressing professional and barbering professional, securing a more appropriate level of funding. However, NHBF quality and standards director Cathy Weston emphasises that the work isn’t done: ‘We continue to face challenges at advanced levels, where current funding rates make it unsustainable for training providers to deliver these programmes.’
The NHBF has developed four comprehensive proposals to address these challenges:
Young apprenticeship model – a pre-apprenticeship programme targeting 14-16-year-olds
Cross-sector redistribution of unspent levy funds.
‘We’re coordinating with government, Skills England and the Department for Education to explore innovative training models that have proven successful in other areas of our sector,’ Cathy says.
The NHBF’s reforms could be a turning point. ‘We understand that our sector’s future depends on getting this right,’ Cathy adds. ‘We’re pushing for funding structures that reflect the true cost of quality training, ensuring the standards we’ve championed can be properly implemented.’
In the meantime, the NHBF’s Survive & Thrive campaign aims to help salon, barbershop and clinic owners calculate their costs as a result of the Autumn Budget (see Resources) – and see whether
Around
5700 people started hairdressing and barbering apprenticeships in England in 2022/23
15,500 people started hairdressing and barbering apprenticeships in England in 2016/17
it might be possible to invest in apprentices and staff after all.
‘We need to look at this, as a sector, to promote the profession – investing in training and apprenticeships, but also modernising our practice,’ says Kelly. ‘It’s not practical anymore to expect staff to work every weekend or late nights. We need to look at flexibility and benefits that attract more young people.
‘The biggest thing we can do is focus on retention. Once you have a great team, create the best employment experience you can so your team will grow with your business.’
Hard-pressed hair and beauty business owners might be considering new ways of working, but what are the legalities of changing employment models?
WORDS KAYE MCINTOSH
In a snap poll in December 2024, 24% of sector businesses told the NHBF that they would ‘switch from employing staff to contracting self-employed workers’ after the Autumn Budget dramatically increased the cost of employment. A further 21% are planning to move to a hybrid model with both employed staff and self-employed workers. While hair and beauty is not a cookie-cutter sector when it comes to employment, what can and can’t you do if you want to adopt a new way of working?
Can I make my employed staff go self-employed?
You can make staff redundant and discuss working together on a self-employed basis, says Worknest employment adviser Mark O’Donnell.
‘The employment relationship ends in redundancy. We recommend a period of consultation to inform staff members about what’s going to happen, how it will impact them and to consider the possibility of avoiding redundancy,’ he adds.
If you have fewer than 20 employees, there’s no set period for this consultation. Mark says it should ‘take as long as necessary’, and you must ‘consider the possibility of avoiding redundancy’ and retaining employees.
If you have more than 20 employees, you need to observe collective consultation rules and inform the Redundancy Payments Service.
Redundancy pay
Employees who have worked for you for more than two years are entitled to statutory redundancy pay – between half and 1.5× a week’s pay for each full year of service, depending on how long they have worked and their age (see Resources).
If you choose redundancy after the consultation period ends, give people notice and confirm their last day.
The self-employed model
If workers want to go selfemployed, it’s essential to draw up an agreement setting out the new working relationship between your business and theirs. It must be ‘substantially different’ to employment, says Mark.
‘An employer tells employees how they should work,’ he says. ‘A selfemployed person has much more control – they are business owners.
‘A hair and beauty business owner who hosts self-employed workers has no control over them. They will own their own clients and set their own hours and ways of working. They can set their own prices. They can also send in a substitute to carry out their work.’ And they aren’t restricted to
FEELING THE EFFECTS
The Autumn Budget hit business owners hard, says NHBF director of membership Tina BeaumontGoddard. ‘It will undoubtedly place a higher financial burden on small business employers, along with the proposed reform of employment rights.’
From April, employers will start paying National Insurance on earnings over £5000, while employer contributions will increase from 13.8% to 15%. The minimum wage for over-21s will rise by 6.7%, and the rate for apprentices will increase from £6.40 to £7.55 an hour.
The Employment Rights Bill, introduced to parliament in October 2024, is also worrying business owners. It would bring in 28 measures to reshape workers’ entitlements from day one of employment – pushing up costs.
using your products.
A mixed model
If you plan to have a mix of employed and self-employed people, you must treat them differently. Don’t tell selfemployed workers what to do, expect them to come to team meetings, or follow your dress rules or hours.
In Leeds, RMUK salon operates a mixed model – half employees and half selfemployed workers. ‘We kept losing staff to go freelance,’ says director and NHBF Member Massi Moura. ‘We’d train them from scratch, then when they started making a decent profit they would move on and rent a chair somewhere else.
‘I had had enough of it. We had to try to think differently. If they want to be self-employed, it’s better to work alongside them [as an independent business] than lose them entirely.’
self-employment, where HMRC decides your staff are really employees, as this could leave you open to claims for backdated taxes, holiday and sick pay, pensions and National Insurance contributions – read the feature on
CASE STUDY OPENING A NEW BUSINESS
NHBF Member Brooke Evans shut down her salon, BE Ironbridge in Shropshire, for a week in January, then opened a new business called The Grid Collective, with self-employed workers renting chairs.
She’d crunched the numbers with her business adviser, then shared her idea with her staff: ‘I told my team, you will be your own bosses. You’ll have your own set of keys. I’ve got no control over anything. They said they were happy and wanted to stay in the new salon.’
It’s essential to treat self-employed people differently, he says: ‘If someone is employed, there are certain expectations they need to meet, such as targets and productivity. We have no control over the self-employed workers, but we only work with people who have the same high standards.’
Brooke currently has six stylists and rents space to a tattoo artist and a nail technician. ‘I’ve never wanted to deviate from employing people,’ she says. But the current state of affairs with VAT, increases in the minimum wage and clients choosing not to come as often as usual because of the cost of living crisis drove her to look at ways to survive.
‘I’m just ready for a life that isn’t such a struggle,’ she adds. ‘I’m essentially giving my business to all the stylists.’
Massi compares it to a department store with different concessions under the same roof. ‘It might not work for everybody. Do your maths, take advice and see how your business model works.’
The message is: do your research. Consult your accountant and use all the information and advice from the NHBF to stand the best chance of making your new business a success.
However, one stylist chose to leave instead of going freelance in the new salon, and Brooke had to make two apprentices redundant. ‘It goes against every grain in my body,’ she says, adding that she had no choice.
Even money Brooke earned from ambassador and education work was ploughed back into the business. Now she’ll keep that income: ‘I’m just so ready to take control again of my destiny.’
NHBF and HMRC guidance for Members on self-employment: b.link/vtaxper69100
As the beauty and aesthetics sector braces itself for regulation, a new aesthetics apprenticeship standard seeks to ensure practitioners have the skills, knowledge and behaviours required to carry out advanced skin rejuvenation procedures. Wales introduced new licensing rules governing special procedures in November 2024. Following government consultations on non-surgical cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels and microneedling, regulation is expected to follow in England and Scotland.
The level 5 Aesthetics Practitioner Skin Rejuvenation Apprenticeship Standard will ensure this growing part of our sector is ready, says Jo Lancaster, NHBF quality and standards manager and a lecturer in aesthetics at University College Birmingham. ‘This programme represents a significant step forward in professionalising the aesthetics industry, to ensure practitioners are equipped with the
LEVEL 5 STANDARD HIGHLIGHTS
The new apprenticeship covers a range of procedures, including:
● Superficial and mediumgrade chemical peels
● Microneedling and microinjury procedures
● Light-based skin rejuvenation techniques
● Mesotherapy using intradermal procedures
● Combination therapy approaches
● Advanced skin blemish removal procedures.
THE JOURNEY SO FAR
Aesthetics industry regulation has been on the cards for more than 10 years. How did we get here?
APRIL 2013: Following the PIP breast implant scandal, the Keogh Review highlights concerns about the safety and regulation of cosmetic procedures.
JAN 2015: National Occupational Standards are created for peels, skin needling, and laser and light treatments.
JAN 2016: Higher Education England publishes a qualification framework that recommends level 4 for advanced treatments such as microneedling and laser hair removal, and level 7 for injectables.
MARCH 2018: The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) launches a consultation on whether non-surgical cosmetic treatments should be more strictly regulated.
MAY 2019: The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Beauty Aesthetics and Wellbeing is established, with the NHBF as the driving force behind its initiation.
FEB 2022: The government announces plans to introduce legislation regulating non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
SEP 2023: The DHSC opens a month-long consultation into non-surgical cosmetic procedure licences in England.
NOV 2024: Wales introduces new licensing rules for special procedures.
DEC 2024: The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education announces a consultation on the level 5 Aesthetics Practitioner Skin Rejuvenation Apprenticeship Standard. The Scottish Government publishes its initial proposals for regulating aesthetic procedures.
JAN 2025: The consultation closes for the level 5 Aesthetics Practitioner Skin Rejuvenation Apprenticeship Standard.
advanced skills, knowledge and behaviours to deliver safe, effective and professional skin rejuvenation procedures,’ she says.
‘It also ensures there’s a clear career progression route for beauty therapists to achieve a robust apprenticeship standard, bridging the divide between the medical and beauty industry and creating a level playing field.’
Jo adds: ‘A recognised, fully funded apprenticeship standard will help therapists meet future regulatory requirements while earning. This pathway will allow them to develop their skills in-clinic, benefiting both businesses and individuals.’
A growing industry
The UK aesthetics industry is estimated to be worth £3.2bn. It expanded by 8.4% in 2024, and 7.7 million people have had a treatment in the last 12 months – 11% of the population.
Candice Gardner, education manager for Dermalogica, sits on the Beauty Professional Apprenticeship Steering (Trailblazer) Group that developed the level 5 standard. The standard is not only responding to this growth and the commercial opportunity it presents, but also the ethical questions, she says.
BUSINESS OWNERS’ INSIGHT WHAT EFFECT WILL THE NEW STANDARD HAVE?
NHBF vice president Jamie Mettyear owns Mettyear’s Day Spa, Salon & Café in Kent: ‘This regulation will help safeguard clients by ensuring practitioners have achieved appropriate competency levels before performing advanced procedures. However, the implementation timeline for regulations and licensing requires careful consideration to minimise industry disruption. Practitioners need adequate time to meet new standards while maintaining their ability to serve clients.’
NHBF Board member Kelly Shaw is a business mentor and the owner of K:SPA Skin Clinic and Beauty Salon in Fareham: ‘It’s going to make businesses more commercially viable because there are a lot of training providers out there taking advantage of the gap in the market. A funded standard makes it more affordable for employers – the sooner we know what the funding will be the better, so we budget for it.
‘We’re seeing more beauty therapists moving into aesthetics by training to be a nurse and then
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
This specialised apprenticeship pathway is designed for practitioners who have:
● Completed a level 3 (England) regulated beauty therapy qualification or equivalent regulated qualification
‘It will give confidence to both learners – who will get that underpinning knowledge about pathology – and clients, who will benefit from better results.’
and physiology qualification
● Achieved the Advanced Beauty Therapy Professional Apprenticeship Standard or the Wellbeing and Holistic Therapist Apprenticeship Standard
● Achieved an NVQ or SVQ regulated qualification in general beauty therapy or massage.
coming back into the industry because there’s no clear pathway to progression,’ she explains.
‘Since they have no intention of working as a nurse in the NHS, there should be alternatives to acquiring the necessary knowledge, skills and behaviours.
‘There’s a recognition that customer and patient safety must be a priority. And there should be the ability to advance knowledge, skills and behaviours to deliver and mitigate for procedures that carry an elevated level of risk.
‘And for business and practitioner it strengthens your credibility, giving clients confidence. Employers now have a way to dispel questions on competence and safety, secure their reputation and ensure profitability.’
THIS PATHWAY WILL ALLOW THEM TO DEVELOP THEIR SKILLS IN-CLINIC, BENEFITING BUSINESSES AND INDIVIDUALS
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS AND COMPETENCIES
The apprenticeship ensures comprehensive training in:
● Advanced health and safety protocols
Following the end of the apprenticeship’s consultation period in January, the group is now reviewing feedback before funding is agreed. However, following last year’s change of government, it’s unclear when the standard will be finalised.
‘It is hoped that the new standard will be ready by September 2025, but this is dependant on any potential time constraints that may occur and agreeing the funding band, before getting final approval for delivery,’ says Jo.
● Infection control
● Legal and regulatory requirements
● Professional consultation procedures
● Client welfare assessment and evaluation
● Detailed skin analysis and classification
● Customised procedure planning
● Professional record-keeping and data protection
● Business management and ethical practices
● Emergency planning and complication management.
RESOURCE
● NHBF FAQs on aesthetic (nonsurgical cosmetic) procedures: nhbf.co.uk/faqs-aesthetic-procedures
WELLNESS
As the tide of wellness trends rises, how can staff protect their own wellbeing while meeting clients’ needs?
WORDS KATHY OXTOBY
The way we view health and wellbeing is changing.
Awareness of the importance of mental health, as well as physical health, is growing.
Responding to consumers’ need for mental wellbeing support, the hair and beauty sector is seeing a rising trend for wellness treatments and therapies.
Wellness trends are influencing client expectations, with more than 70% of consumers in a McKinsey survey last year revealing that they consider wellness a top or important priority in their everyday lives.
Clarke, CEO of Murdock Barbers of London.
Determined to help break the stigma around the prevalence of mental health issues among men, every Murdock barber is trained in mental health first aid (MHFA).
‘Ensuring staff are trained in MHFA reflects our belief that the barber’s chair isn’t just a place for grooming – it’s a safe space for connection,’ Graham explains.
‘The training equips team members to recognise signs of mental distress and confidently signpost to relevant resources or just have a listening ear.’
Holistic health
‘This highlights a perfect opportunity for businesses to cater to the complete needs of their clients,’ says Graham
Silent services are also ‘increasingly gaining traction in the industry’ and are on offer at Murdock Barbers, he adds.
Gemma Harvey, NHBF Member and owner of the salon GH Hair Design in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, became passionate about wellness after she was diagnosed with ME. In 2020, she transformed her business and relocated it to become a wellness centre, offering not only hair and beauty treatments, but also holistic therapies.
The centre, whose motto is ‘Taking care of you, not just your hair’, features a relaxation lounge, and its services include reflexology, counselling and hypnotherapy.
All staff have mental health training.
‘Our salon mission is to educate clients on how important it is to rest, reset and recharge,’ says Gemma.
The hair and beauty sector has the potential to get involved in socially prescribing alternative therapies and treatments. The NHBF and the Federation of Holistic Therapies have written jointly to the secretary of state for health and social care to propose the inclusion of beauty, holistic, complementary and wellbeing therapies professionals on the NHS Register under social prescribing.
NHBF Board member Beverley Bates is a salon consultant and educator, director of Ekko Retreat in Warwickshire, and founding director of Mind for Business. She says that, with the future of the industry geared towards wellness and alternative therapies and treatments, it’s important for owners to ‘do their research so they can design salon services around these trends’, just as Gemma has done.
Socially exhausted
Those working in the sector are dedicated to providing services geared towards what’s best for their clients’ wellness. But what about the wellbeing of professionals and their teams?
HAIRCUT IS JUST PART OF THE SERVICE WE OFFER – THE
TEAMWELLBEING:
TEAM WELLBEING: DOS AND DON’TS DO
Schedule training on client communication, boundary setting and stress management
Create dedicated wellness spaces and invest in resources that support daily decompression
Conduct structured team check-ins and one-on-ones to celebrate successes and address concerns
Implement a flexible break system that accounts for peak business hours while ensuring adequate rest periods.
DON’T: ✘
Overwork staff without adequate recovery time between clients
Prioritise short-term profits over team sustainability, leading to staff burnout and higher turnover
Ignore signs of team stress or dismiss mental health concerns as ‘part of the job’
Maintain rigid policies that don’t accommodate wellbeing needs or work-life balance
Skip team development opportunities due to busy schedules.
Clie barbe
Clients often tell hairdressers, barbers and beauty therapists things they don’t tell their nearest and dearest, due to the intimate nature of the relationship. But those conversations can take their toll.
A recent Scottish study looked at how the social and emotional aspects of client relationships affect hairdressers’ psychological wellbeing. Findings included that the ‘intensely social nature’ of the job can often leave hairdressers feeling ‘socially exhausted by the end of the day’.
‘The haircut is just part of the service we offer – the listening part is also important,’ says Gemma. ‘However, we need to protect ourselves, because if we don’t it can be exhausting – especially when a stylist has issues of their own, such as grief, in their personal lives.’
Some salon business members of a Facebook group that Beverley runs report that this offloading can be difficult if ‘they are not feeling good themselves’. And if clients are sharing details of difficulties that have happened in your own life, ‘it can be very triggering’, she says.
Hair and beauty practitioners can struggle with ‘compassion fatigue’, says Hayley Jepson, a former hairdresser and psychotherapist, as well as founder and owner of The Resilient Hairdresser website. ‘We become “full up” with compassion and can feel overwhelmed.’
pobem strategie yourself your ow feel so ov profe
This can play ‘a big part’ in burnout, she says: ‘When you are constantly listening to people’s problems, if you don’t have good strategies in place to take care of yourself, this will eventually affect your own mental health.’ Some may feel so overwhelmed that they leave the profession altogether.
Protecting wellbeing
It’s crucial that owners ensure their team’s wellbeing is protected and looked after.
It’s thei prote
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF FIRST – IF YOU ARE NOT OKAY THEN OTHER AREAS IN YOUR LIFE, INCLUDING WORK, WILL NOT BE OKAY EITHER
‘Supporting staff wellbeing isn’t just good practice – it’s essential for running a successful hair and beauty business,’ says NHBF chief executive Caroline Larissey (see Team Wellbeing: Dos and Don’ts).
‘Investing in your team’s mental and physical wellbeing through regular check-ins, manageable schedules, proper breaks and professional development opportunities creates a positive workplace culture that benefits everyone.’
It can be daunting to know how to respond to or handle what clients disclose about their mental or physical health – particularly for newly qualified staff
‘Following intel from our sector, the NHBF, alongside the Hair Professional Apprenticeship Steering Group members suggested the inclusion of mental health awareness (K15 ) in the new apprenticeship standards, demonstrating a vital evolution in professional hairdressing and barbering training,’ says Caroline.
invaluable, especially for new staff handling sensitive client disclosures, and owners need to establish referral protocols.
‘Offering resources such as a list of local mental health services ensures professionals don’t bear undue responsibility for client support,’ he says.
‘This standard not only benefits clients but also supports practitioners in maintaining their own wellbeing while managing emotionally demanding client relationships.’
Leading by example
For newly qualified professionals, ‘mentorship is essential’, says Graham. ‘Pairing them with experienced colleagues who can offer advice on navigating the emotional aspects of the job can make a huge difference.’
He adds that training in MHFA and communication skills is
Graham also suggests that business owners should lead by example: ‘When salon leaders prioritise their own wellbeing, it inspires staff to follow suit.’
Hayley adds: ‘Team members need to know they have someone they can talk to if things have been tough, such as clients disclosing distressing information.
Gemma advises taking breaks between clients to ‘reset’. It’s also helpful to have a list of resources available on the premises, such as charities and other sources of support, for both clients and staff, she adds.
To business owners, she says: ‘Take care of yourself first – if you are not okay then other areas in your life, including work, will not be okay either.’
‘Wellbeing in the hair and beauty sector is more than a trend – it’s a necessity,’ says Graham. ‘Prioritising mental health and emotional resilience in your team not only leads to happier staff, but also creates a more authentic and supportive environment for clients. The first step? Start the conversation today.’
‘And as an owner, have an open-door policy so staff can come and talk to you.’
She also advises that owners have an owner ‘buddy’ to share issues with – someone ‘who understands what it’s like to be in their shoes’.
g n an ners hare o o an be a ues, m s and pport cking”,’ dopting
Weekly team meetings can be a safe space for discussing issues, including the help that team members have given clients and the help they require to support them. ‘I call this “pulse checking”,’ says Beverley. She advises adopting a ‘heard, helped or hugged’ approach when clients are sharing problems. This involves listening to someone, suggesting where they can get support, or, often, just giving a hug.
Assigning the right client to the right stylist can avoid mismatches between customers who want to offload and staff who may not feel confident or experienced in these situations, she adds.
NHBF RESOURCES
● NHBF campaign Every Mind Matters: nhbf.co.uk/ every-mind-matters
● NHBF blog: The importance of good mental health for your business: nhbf.co.uk/ good-mental-health
● NHBF blog: A healthy cut: nhbf.co.uk/a-healthy-cut
BE MORE
SUSTAINABLE
In our energy-intensive sector, reducing your carbon footprint can seem like a struggle. We round up some of the most effective tips.
WORDS HELEN BIRD
Why it matters:
WE HEAR FROM..
Clive Boon, NHBF Member and owner of Boons hair salon, Retford
Jennie Lawson, owner of Mimosa Beauty, Chelmsford (winner of the BABTAC Sustainability Champion Award 2024)
● The beauty industry is energy intensive, particularly for barbers and hair salons – the average appointment produces 3.1kg of greenhouse gas emissions thanks to appliances such as hairdryers, washing machines and air conditioning, according to the British Beauty Council.
● Waste is also a big issue – the sector as a whole, including retail, accounts for a third of all landfill waste, and 70% of the plastic waste it produces is not recycled. And with more than half of consumers not recycling their bathroom product packaging, the crisis is worsening.
What’s being done?
Some brands and businesses have committed to reducing their carbon footprints for several years:
● Many clients expect salons, barbershops and clinics to act: in a YouGov survey carried out by L’Oréal, 43% of British women said they wanted to see their salon doing more to be sustainable, while almost a quarter expected a beauty or wellness service provider to be committed to reducing its environmental footprint.
● Mimosa Beauty has been landfill-free since 2017, says owner Jennie, while Boons owner Clive has implemented various energy-saving measures, as his salon is in a building that is more than 100 years old.
SIMPLER RECYCLING SCHEME
In a bid to achieve 65% of local waste being recycled by 2035, the government is introducing new measures. From 31 March, all workplaces (businesses and non-domestic premises) in England have a legal duty to present the following wastes separated in accordance with the arrangements with their waste collector:
● Dry recyclable materials – plastic, metal, glass, paper and card
● Food waste
● Black bin waste (residual waste.
Micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people will be exempt until 31 March 2027.
● Find out more about your responsibilities at b.link/gov-packaging-guidance
THE BUSINESS HOW TO...
● In 2023, L’Oréal launched its Net Zero Salons programme to help hair and beauty business owners adopt simple strategies to reduce waste and energy use. The salons involved aim to save 2kg of emissions per appointment.
ON’TS
ise: ecycling
● This March, the British Beauty Council’s Sustainable Beauty Coalition launched the Great British Beauty Clean Up, which intends to reduce the sector’s waste by increasing consumer awareness and encouraging reuse and refill systems.
Is there more you could do?
Energy use
costs to clients – being sustainable is a business responsibility
Clive’s actions to cut energy use and costs at Boons salon have included:
● Insulating the windows with plastic sheeting (at a total cost of £28)
● Using night-time tariffs for the salon’s storage heaters and gaspowered tumble dryers
● Manually inputting gas and electric readings to a smart meter
● Switching off electrical tools and lights when not in use
● Condensing hours and syncing with team members so they can all finish at the same time and close the salon.
Damien highlights how all his barbershop’s energy comes from sun, wind and water – proving it can be done.
Reducing landfill waste
Jennie makes these sustainable choices around products and suppliers:
● Buying in bulk where possible, which means less shipping and less packaging
● Finding local, sustainable brands
● Using refillable products where possible
● Offering to recycle packaging for clients when they buy products.
Damien also recommends:
● Switching hair products from those packaged in plastic to those in aluminium or glass jars and bottles,
ims – be careful about guage, so you’re not being misleading.
he D c D D
which are ‘infi
● Not sending hair to landfi made a huge diff found some pretty unique things to do with the hair, including a recent collaboration with a local artist who is incorporating the hair into their sculptures.’
● Using gowns manufactured in the UK creates a lower carbon footprint than importing from overseas.
hich ‘infinitely recyclable’. ing landfill has ence, too. ‘We’ hing shoul them usin
Towels and gowns
Using biodegradable options could be a greener choice for some businesses:
● The polyester and nylon used for most traditional salon gowns is energy intensive, and refi from crude oil. And they can’t be recycled
● Biodegradable gowns are designed to be single-use and have a far smaller eff the environment.
owns manufactur lower carbo from o wns refined radable ned to be and have a effect on ment.
● Businesses still using fabric towels should continue to wash and dry them using low-energy appliances.
Water use
● Use cold water when washing up colour bowls and brushes, suggests Clive. Install tap aerators and eco shower heads to reduce hot water use.
Damien says: ‘Not only does your clients’ hair look and feel healthier, but you also use up to 60% less water.’
Staff and clients
● Get your staff on board – encourage your team to remember simple actions, such as turning lights off and switching off appliances at the wall when not using them.
● NHBF blog – Running an eco-friendly business: nhbf. co.uk/eco-friendly-business
NHBF blog – Sustainable salons and barbershops: nhbf. co.uk/sustainable-businesses
Watch Survive & Thrive with the NHBF’s Caroline Larissey and Boons salon for tips on b.link/ Boons-salon-energy-tips
FASHION OR FAUX PAS?
Whether you embrace them or buck them, we take a look at the latest trends.
HUES FOR YOU
Hot on the heels of Pantone’s rich, chocolatey colour of the year, Mocha Mousse, comes Pinterest’s predictive palette. The five diverse shades, compiled by the platform’s data, such as search terms and saves, could prove useful hashtags in posts to entice and inspire clients.
Cherry red, roused by a spike in search terms such as ‘cherry vibe’ (+325%), will be seen on nails and lips, as well as in outfits and interiors.
With searches for‘butter yellow nails’up by 1825%, this playful hue will get you and your clients in the spring and summer mood.
An edgier version of lilac, aura indigo conjures an otherworldly vibe. Pinterest searches for ‘purple lavender aesthetic’ are up 175%.
Dill green is a pickle-inspired shade shaking up wardrobes and beauty.
And a cosy cream – alpine oat –comes from a 145% rise in searches for ‘neutral outfits women’, and who doesn't want nails to match?
THE LONDON LOOK
REPORT TIME TO SPA-KLE
The hottest spa treatments of the moment have been rounded up by Spaseekers.com, based on search, social and survey data.
THE TRENDS REPORT SAID:
Japanese head spas has seen a huge 233%
increase in year-on-year searches since the head massage took off on TikTok
Another season, another ‘new’ bob cut – the hair trends spotted on the runways and in the audience at London Fashion Week in February didn’t disappoint. Indeed, the variety of bob styles prove the look is still extremely popular and easy to wear. From short, slicked back or flicked out at the ends to ‘mushroom’, ‘undone’ or ‘bevelled’ bobs, there’s a style to suit everyone.
Glass hair – achieving a glass-like shine for maximum glossy impact – appeared across a number of shows. Other highlights included the return of the crimper, as well as textured hair designs inspired by traditional West African hairstyling and exaggerated into fresh runway looks.
Anot bob on th audi in Fe Inde prov popu short the e or ‘b suit e Gl glass gloss acros Othe retur textu tr hairs fresh
Gold massage – a lavish treatment that incorporates 23-carat gold to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits for the skin – was up
124% in searches, as were…
Medical spas (also known as medi-spas) offering non-surgical tweakments.
All-round health spas have also surged in search interest over the past year
WANT TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH THE LATEST NEWS AND TRENDS? FOLLOW US @NHBFSOCIAL
+123% as steam baths, exercise and massages under one roof gain appeal.
IS IT INSTA GRAM MABLE?
Have you created a style that you’re particularly proud of and want to shout about? Then post a picture to Instagram with the hashtag #salonfocus or tag @nhbfsocial and your shot could be included on these pages.
@xnailfairyx Shifnal
@cal_newsome Shropshire
@hairsmithsnorwich Norwich
@cyrl_cymru Aberystwyth
@hairbygraciexox Leicester
@oli.tracey Cardiff
@thebrowjob.lena Chester
@laurenshairlounge22 Aylesbury
CAROLINE HIRONS
The aesthetician, author, podcaster and ‘Queen of Skincare’ shares how she’s shaking up the beauty industry with Skin Rocks Pro.
I feel professional skincare has become stagnant… Based on consumer feedback, I can tell that there is a huge gap between people who love skincare and use it at home, and people who go for facials. This is partly down to the perceived elitism from some of the brands currently occupying the space, which have made the salon/clinic environment unwelcoming, unapproachable and confusing. Skincare that performs doesn’t have to be white!
The beauty industry hasn’t done enough… to make facials feel approachable or worthwhile. Treatment names are often overly complicated, and many professional spaces lean on tired marketing buzzwords like ‘get the glow’ or ‘red carpet treatment’. These don’t reflect the long-term investment that using a professional will deliver.
I’ve literally received hundreds of thousands… of questions about skin throughout my 28-year career and my 17 years on social media. The Skin Rocks range of products had to have a clear purpose, alongside comprehensive guidance with the best formulas possible.
The biggest challenge so far... has been developing products that are not only worthy of being released, but that also bring something new to the table.
Skin Rocks Pro is… the natural extension for Skin Rocks. We want to remove the confusion around terms in skincare such as ‘medical grade’ and ‘clinical grade’. Every Skin Rocks product we release is clinically tested and contains actives that are proven to work, so there was no need to create a new line.
To me, creating a new line for Pro… would mean our existing line is insufficient, which is not the case. There will be backbar sizes of the existing Skin Rocks line, and we will be adding products exclusively
ALL ABOUT CAROLINE
Socials: @carolinehirons @skinrocks
Founder of: Skin Rocks, Beauty Backed Trust
NHBF Top 100 Index rating: #1 in 2021
for use during treatments and releasing some products directly through the Pro channel. All training will begin before product is available for purchase.
A Skin Rocks clinic… could be in the pipeline, but it’s unlikely to be this year – we’ve got enough on!
I don’t see what I do as work.... I have two parts of my life, my family and what I do. I love what I do, and it’s a privilege to work with brilliant people every day.
Unlike many in my position as a CEO… I surround myself with people who will say ‘no’ to me and, trust me, they do. Humility is very important, as is an open-door policy. But it’s also important to have boundaries and know when to shut it!
Guests I’d love to interview... on my podcast Glad We Had This Chat are Oprah, Ilona Maher, so many...
My favourite guest so far… Grace Dent was fun because we’d never met and had similar upbringings, but I’ve loved meeting every person. They’ve all brought something different.
HELPING HAIR AND BEAUTY PROFESSIONALS THROUGH TIMES OF HARDSHIP
Since 1836 the Hair & Beauty Charity has helped those in our industry who have fallen on hard times. support those who need it most. is our duty to help them in their time of need.
Newly Launched
Introduce beauty treatments into your service menu with the multi-purpose Luar
Service table included to enable you to add manicures to your menu
Lie-flat function provides ultimate comfort during longer treatments
M Makke a showwroooom m a appoinntmmeent toodday y to leearrn hoow ouur p produuctts caan n boooost t youur r bussiineess in n 20225 5
Heated legrest enhances every service to new levels of luxury
