INSTYLE ISSUE 2 2025

SAME FORMULA NOW SUPERCHARGED

For effective scalp care and hair repair.

To protect and fortify scalp and hair strands. Returns softness, shine and lustre.

Fatboy started on the stage. Now, Fatboy is a range which outperforms and endures the encores. Created by professionals for use by everyone. Cruelty, sulphate and paraben free. Incredible performance for all heads of hair.

sea salt pomade

CREDIBLE SCIENCE. INCREDIBLE RESULTS.™

INTRODUCING

HEALTHY HAIR SHAMPOO

ONE-STEP BOND REPAIR

This is faster. This is better. This is epres Just one simple, cost-effective step to incredible results. Bring hair back to its absolute best state by repairing bonds to increase strength and softness, and decrease breakage and frizz.

Damaged hair is no match for sciencebacked epres. In-salon service and takehome treatment to enjoy – and extend –the beauty of stronger hair.

epres is here to revolutionise bond repair.

High-performance shampoo that leaves all hair types noticeably cleaner, lighter and shinier than traditional formulas. Infused with our patented Biodiffusion™ bond repair technology to protect against damage as you wash.

HEALTHY HAIR CONDITIONER

High-performance conditioner that leaves all hair types noticeably lighter and shinier. Infused with our patented Biodiffusion™ bond repair technology to instantly smooth and detangle all hair types and textures.

Our molecular technology repairs disulphide bonds, which form the internal structure of healthy hair. Rebuilding these bonds with epres technology during a professional service leads to softer, stronger hair with less breakage and frizz— and no change in development time or desired colour effect. Plus we do it all in one simple, acid-free step.

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EDITOR

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EDITORIAL

There’s a lot on at the moment and not just in the usual sense, when the default answer is often a resounding ‘I’m so busy right now, but I’d be happy to catch up when things settle down’. Let’s be honest - when does this ever happen? Especially when running a business and being active in the industry come head-to-head, it never settles down and there will always be more to do, more decisions to make and more to pull our focus away from our original purpose.

From events to education, shows, awards nights and beyond, the scope for hairdressing is bustling and broader than ever before. To add to the gathering of creative minds, Hair Festival is now just weeks away and, as the largest event in the industry, we’ve tried to make planning your weekend of education and inspiration as simple as possible. With a limited number of All Access Passes still available, it’s the best way to show up, glow up and pick your poison without being locked into one particular course or class - and if shopping and the Wonderland party are more your thing then that’s perfectly fine too.

In an industry filled with an alarmingly increasing number of expensive events, we continue to add that Hair Festival is FREE to attend, with further events that you can purchase tickets to in order to enhance the experience. Thank you to those who have continued to help make this event happen.

There’s a lot to get our head around in 2025 and we have set our focus for Hair Festival to conquer everything relevant to hairdressers now, from staff to streamlining practices to taking the pressure off. AI certainly can’t take our jobs but if used correctly it can make what we do and the service we offer even better for us and clients. The same goes for building a strong brand in the current market. These are all topics that will be covered at this year’s REALtalk Business Summit. Hair Festival also delivers a Barber Hub, a Business Hub, two stages, a new wellness hub and more. The energy is what you all brought last year and we can’t wait to see it all again.

Our mission at Hair Festival is to inspire growth, innovation and change for a more conscious future for hairdressers and barbers. Hair Festival is an opportunity for all of us in the industry to showcase what we do. Our aim is to create longevity and a healthy relationship with our work and life, while ensuring balance and consistency in what we do not just for our clients but for ourselves.

Gone are the days of not allowing ourselves to work in an environment we deem as sustainable and being accountable in a difficult climate has become one of the biggest challenges, even for brands when there is so much multi-channel pressure diluting their strategy. Ultimately, however, the professionals bring it all together, and many of these products, brands and campaigns wouldn’t work without the pros.

Not only this, but all the other elements that keep us dialled in to our purpose wouldn’t come together - the inspiration, the imagery and the general aesthetic that many brands strive for is dependent on you. This is where staying inspired at Hair Festival plays such a pivotal role in coming together, sharing a voice, competing live in a true hairdressing environment free of photography and retouching and in a collective environment that’s not dependent on budget alone.

This year, not only is our mission to elevate the industry and continue to bring back the energy we all love about it but to create an experience of inclusivity that’s not just for those who can afford an expensive ticket or sit in a room courtesy of an educator or brand.

We also want you to acknowledge the importance of our new wellness and sustainability pillar for 2025 that asks you ‘to commit to being kind to myself, practice mindfulness, and take time to rest and recharge when needed so we can offer the best of us to the industry and to our clients. Together we empower each other to live our best lives through holistic wellness practice and moments of mindfulness’.

Living your best life isn’t always about your highlight reel on Instagram and we are here for all of it. See you very soon!

The New Headcase Hair, Potts

Salon Profile Vision Blonde

Eekoloks

100 The Shampoo Edit by Comfortel

UPFRONT

BARBERIAN LAUNCHES IN MELBOURNE

Earlier in 2025, Barberian Men’s Grooming launched in a high-class night at Melbourne’s Queensberry Street, birthing the Barberian movement alongside the exciting men’s hair product launch.

Speakers including founder Jorge Viota and ANZ distributor Maurice Torcasio explained the brand to guests from across the hairdressing industry, while the products were showcased around the venue in floating displays. Candlelight décor and canapes added elegance and luxury to the evening.

The Barberian range delivers performance alongside organic, natural, vegan, cruelty-free, biodegradable, recyclable, and proudly Australian-made formulations.

“Every product is crafted with integrity, using native ingredients to honour both the health of our bodies and the wellbeing of our planet,” the brand said. “Barberian is redefining what it means to be well-groomed—not just in appearance, but in intention. The event was the start of something real. A movement that invites modern men to live with more care, more consciousness, and more soul.”

www.barberian.co

TRACEY HUGHES ANNOUNCED AS DERMAPENWORLD GENERAL MANAGER FOR HAIRCARE

Global hairdressing legend and Australia’s own Tracey Hughes has been named as the new General Manager for Dermapenworld’s Global Haircare Division, leading the EXO-GROW Collection. The brand is a global leader in microneedling technology, with a presence in over 80 countries, and Tracey will continue to build from their skincare basis, initiated from the brand’s launch in 2010, into their powerful haircare range.

“I am honoured to take on this role. DermapenWorld’s legacy of innovation is unmatched,” Tracey said. “EXO-GROW will redefine the way we approach haircare, and I am excited to lead this launch and bring real solutions to those struggling with hair concerns worldwide. I’m also thrilled to be part of such an exceptional company—proudly Australian and privately held—led by the most heartwarming and intelligent couple, Stene and Corri Marshall.”

“Tracey’s leadership, innovation, and deep industry insight make her the perfect choice to spearhead DermapenWorld’s expansion into haircare,” said Dermapenworld CEO, Stene Marshall. “Her expertise, skills and knowledge will be invaluable in introducing EXO-GROW to the world and setting a new benchmark for hair loss and scalp health.”

DermapenWorld is an innovator in skin rejuvenation and automated microneedling. The EXO-GROW range integrates growth factors, proven regenerative technology and exosome technology in the interest of hair and scalp health for both hair professionals and consumers. www.dermapenworld.com.au

GEOFFREY HERBERG RETURNS AS NATIONAL EDUCATION MANAGER FOR REVLON PROFESSIONAL AND AMERICAN CREW

Revlon Professional and American Crew have welcomed back Geoffrey Herberg as National Education Manager. Geoffrey is renowned as an industry leader with expertise in education and creative direction and will lead the development of the brands’ education programs, hands-on workshops and digital learning experiences.

“I’m thrilled to be rejoining the Revlon Professional and American Crew family,” Geoffrey said. “Education is the heartbeat of our industry, and I’m passionate about equipping stylists and barbers with the knowledge, confidence, and creativity to push boundaries and elevate their craft. The future of hair is bold, innovative, and full of opportunity—and I can’t wait to be part of that journey.”

“We are delighted to welcome Geoffrey back to the team,” added Brad Raper, General Manager at Revlon Professional. “His visionary approach to education and passion for the craft align perfectly with our mission to support and inspire hair professionals. We look forward to seeing the impact he will bring as he helps shape the future of our industry.”

www.revlonprofessional.com

CHRIS HUDSON NAMED AS GENERAL MANAGER OF KAO SALON AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND

Kao Salon Australia and New Zealand has named Chris Hudson as its new General Manager, as of March 24. Chris brings over 20 years of experience in the hair industry to the role, with business, sales, marketing, education and strategic leadership skills.

“I have personally worked with Chris for almost eight years. His diligence, customer-focused approach, and ability to build strong relationships have been instrumental in driving our success,” shared Rita Marcon, Kao Corporation’s General Manager. “I have no doubt that, under his leadership, Kao Salon Australia and New Zealand will continue to thrive and grow.”

“I’m very excited to lead the Kao Salon ANZ business into the future,” Chris added. “With my experience and insights, I see huge opportunities for Kao to become an even stronger partner for Stylists. Most importantly, I work with an incredible team –especially our leadership – who continuously push us to be better. Together, we’ll drive growth, innovation, and a thriving future. I can’t wait for what’s ahead!”

www.kaosalondivision.com/en/home/

DISCOVER SUSTAINABLE HAIR FOILS WITH

ECO FOILS

Allowing users to “foil responsibly and style sustainably”, Eco Foils are eco-friendly, high-quality hair foils for sustainable salons, that prioritise the environment while never compromising on performance. The brand was founded by Tenille Lawrence of Little Birdie Hair Co, as an innovation that’s made for hairdressers, by a hairdresser. Tenille founded Little Birdie Hair Co in 2015, which is a hair salon built on low-tox, eco-friendly practices. She then extended this approach to Eco Foils to continue this eco-conscious mindset. The brand’s manufacturing process, materials and collaborations all reflect this ethos.

The foils are made from recycled aluminium and are 100 per cent recyclable. They’re also adorned with nature-inspired designs and have 100 per cent carbon neutral shipping, where emissions are offset thanks to a partnership with Carbon Positive Australia.

“Eco Foils is more than just a tool for stylists. It’s a movement toward responsible beauty. By choosing Eco Foils, stylists are joining us in reducing waste, protecting the planet, and proving that small changes can make a big impact on your craft, your industry, and the planet,” Tenille shared. “Together, we can create a more sustainable future for hairdressing.”

The brand puts an emphasis on minimising their ecological footprint, and users can partake in Planting a Tree for $4 when purchasing the foils, helping to offset the carbon footprint of the order. The brand also donates $2 to the Australian Koala Foundation with every box sold, helping to protect this endangered species with their philanthropic collaborations. www.ecofoils.eco

GREAT LENGTHS NAME PETE THOMSEN AS AMBASSADOR

Pete Thomsen has joined the Great Lengths family as an Ambassador, bringing 25 years of experience in luxe hair salon services. Pete is the owner of Chelsea Haircutters and has an A-list clientele that perfectly suits the Great Lengths market.

In his role, Pete will be the face of Essenza Tape Extensions as the product’s official ambassador. Pete is currently on tour with special guests, Kirby Lago from Pelo by Lago, Faith Williams from Blondee Salon and Jaimme Lee Hallgath from Salon Jaimmeee in Perth, to educate on this technology.

“I’m excited to join the Great Lengths family,” Pete said. “Essenza Tape Extensions are an absolute game-changer. They offer incredible quality, speed, and efficiency, making them perfect for both professionals and clients alike.”

The extensions allow for fast application and removal, so you can offer a profitable, express service that doesn’t take up time in the chair. They also provide the opportunity for instant retaping. The Essenza Tape Extensions also include zero bleach, where colour molecules are gently lifted from dark hair without disturbing the cuticle, preserving its natural integrity and resulting in shiny, elastic, long-lasting hair. The technology also eliminates shorter, fragmented hairs and is naturally thick from root to ends, with gently tapered tips that require no cutting, for a full, voluminous final look from root to tip. www.greatlengths.com.au/the-great-australian-tour/

EVO AND THE GAUVIN FAMILY FOUNDATION SUPPORT WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY

On World Down Syndrome Day on March 21, Evo, in conjunction with the Gauvin Family Foundation, did their part to support this important cause.

Through this initiative, Evo raised funds and participated in the #LotsofSocks campaign in office, while also hosting a pamper morning for 11 young adults with Down syndrome and their carers to style them for the Foundation 21 Reunion Gala Ball. Two prominent Adelaide salons, The Basin Haircutters and CONK Hair, donated their time and expertise to provide hair makeovers for the event.

The cause and event is close to the hearts of Evo and the Gauvin Family Foundation, as inspired by and in support of the brand’s Adelaide Warehouse Manager, Michael Dann, whose grandson Remi was born in December with Down Syndrome and medical complications.

“As a family-owned business, we remain committed to raising awareness and funds for Down syndrome,” shared Garth Gauvin of the Gauvin Family Foundation. “This event is just one of the many ways we aim to foster inclusivity, celebrate diversity, and provide tangible support to our community.”

www.thehaircaregroup.com.au

AHC ANNOUNCE FIONA BEAMISH AS INTERIM CEO

Welcome Fiona Beamish to the role of Interim CEO of the Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC). Fiona will draw on more than three decades of experience in the hair industry, where she has led a distinguished career in the global hair product industry, across Australia, Ireland, the UK, and Asia. She is also an expert in education, training, and sales and has owned and operated the national distribution of a UK-based hair brand.

“We are delighted to welcome Fiona as our new interim CEO,” shared AHC Chair Luca De Lorenzo. “Her extensive hairdressing experience will be invaluable in supporting our members and advocating for the wider hair industry.”

Fiona has been part of the AHC in the past as an AHC member and as part of the member support team with the organisation. She is renowned for her ability to identify trends, streamline operations, and implement innovative solutions, while also excelling at coaching businesses and supporting industry success through education, mentorship, and strategic solutions.

“I’m thrilled to return to the AHC as CEO,” Fiona said “It’s exciting to lead such a passionate and dedicated community that makes this industry so special. The past decade has brought significant market shifts, highlighting the growing need for community support and connection in business.”

www.theahc.org.au

SHORT BACK & SIDEWALKS PARTNERS WITH TONI&GUY AUSTRALIA

Welcome a new important partnership between Short Back & Sidewalks (SBSW) and TONI&GUY Australia. Starting as of February this year, the TONI&GUY Sydney network will volunteer to deliver new monthly SBSW services at the Central Community Hub at St Andrew’s Cathedral. This complements SBSW’s second presence in Sydney at Foster House in Surry Hills, which is a residential facility for men aged 18 and over who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

“It’s really special to get to work alongside such an iconic hairdressing brand and crew like the TONI&GUY Australia team to deliver services to the people who need it most,” said SBSW CEO Natalie Jenkins. “The people who use our services deserve the very best, and this partnership ensures they will continue to receive it from some of Sydney’s best hairdressers.”

“It’s our personal, professional and social responsibility to partner with meaningful and like-minded organisations like Short Back & Sidewalks,” added TONI&GUY Australia CEO Sara Langford. “Our salons are excited for the opportunity to utilise their skillset and give back to the local community.”

SBSW is a free hair-cutting and grooming service for those experiencing homelessness and poverty, which has been operating since in 2015 across Western Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia, creating visibility, confidence and meaningful connections for marginalised communities through the power of hairdressing.

ww.shortbackandsidewalks.com

GHD UNVEIL LIMITED EDITION FUTURESCAPE COLLECTION AND CHRONOS MAX

Welcome the Futurescape collection from ghd, which the brand describe as its “digitopia”. With futuristic, A.I. based aesthetic themes against tech inspired, surreal landscapes, this is the latest limited-edition collection from the esteemed electricals brand.

The collection comprises five award-winning ghd tools, including the new ghd duet blowdry, available in limited-edition shades of galactic lilac, mystic aqua and transcendent pink. The ethereal, pastel tones are also complemented by complimentary heat-resistant cases for each tool.

Earlier this year, ghd also released their new chronos™ max, one year after the launch of the chronos™ straightener. The new innovation is a wide, close-edge plated styler with HD motion responsive™ technology, with 85 per cent larger plates and three-times faster styling.

Building on the technology of the award-winning ghd chronos™ styler, the tool boasts one-stroke styling and HD results that last 24 hours. The 85 per cent larger plates are ideal for long, thick and curly hair, and the tool offers 90 per cent more shine. The close-edge plates allow users to get closer to the roots when styling, building on the brand’s high-definition, ultra-fast styling from root to tip. The tool creates an ultimate pressed finish and helps to align the cuticle to sit flat, which enhances light reflection, shine and a glass-like quality. www.ghdhairpro.com.au

ALFAPARF MILANO PROFESSIONAL LAUNCH SEMI DI LINO STYLE&CARE

Alfaparf Milano unveiled the Semi di Lino Style&Care range at launch events in Melbourne on March 3 and Sydney on March 17, headlined by Kobi Bokshish. The range is designed to facilitate styling, enhance finishes and provide control and protection. Hairdressers and consumers can cocktail products to create their individualised haircare routines, suitable for any hair type, for customised styling that's also a moment of wellness.

At the events, guests were welcomed with prosecco, a grazing table and took home a goodie bag featuring the new Texturizing Balm and Detangling Primer. A feature fragrance experience table allowed guests to explore the scents of the range in a sensorial experience. Kobi created six looks on stage with the products, while also sharing the personal story of his journey in hair. The brand also held a raffle, giving eight winners the chance to receive the new Semi di Lino Mother’s Day Duo Kits. www.alfaparfmilanopro.com/au-en

MONIQUE MCMAHON APPOINTED PRO BRAND AMBASSADOR FOR CHRISTOPHE ROBIN

Monique McMahon has been announced as Pro Brand Ambassador for Christophe Robin, adding to her professional ambassadorships with Wella ANZ and the global Dyson juggernaut, and strengthening an already decade long collaboration between Monique and the brand. The role will include press commitments, workshops, global masterclasses and social media activations.

Monique is the founder of famous Sydney hair salon QUE Colour and has three decades of experience across colour, artistry and education. She is a renowned educator within her own brand, Que Academy, as well as for EdwardsAndCo, Valonz, TONI&GUY, Bixie and more, and she has conducted masterclasses for over 1,000 attendees in Los Angeles and Hong Kong. She also has a social media following of 600,000 followers and over 14 million likes, where her viral video content has reached as much as 19 million views on Instagram, and is a backstage stylist at events such as New York Fashion Week and Australian Fashion Week.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Monique to the Christophe Robin family as our new brand ambassador,” shared Marisa Shutt, MD of Christophe Robin. “Her passion and values perfectly align with our mission, and we can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey together.”

“I’m excited to collaborate with Christophe’s team on this project,” Monique shared.

“I’ve used the range every day for the past decade and can’t wait to share my knowledge and experiences with hairdressers and consumer around the world.”

www.quecolour.com.au

HAIRLOOM CELEBRATES 45 YEARS

Hairloom salon is celebrating 45 years of their success as a Perth salon, after debuting in 1979 thanks to husband and wife team Connie and Tony Faranda in Osborne Park before growing to three locations overall.

As of 2025, Hairloom has entered the new ownership of Ebbeny and Omar Varinda and transformed into Hairloom Collective, pointing to the modern future of the brand. Ebbeny is Connie and Tony’s daughter, carrying on the family legacy of the salon, while bringing her own media and communications expertise, as a former Channel 9 reporter, to this new phase. Omar brings his own experience in business management and finance to the future of the business. Connie and Tony’s daughter Candice also leads the way as a Senior Stylist and has represented Australia at WorldSkills in Japan and undertaken a scholarship in London.

The new phase acts as a rebrand for Hairloom, while also activating their online offering and debuting a new look. www.hairloom.com.au

DYSON ANNOUNCE GABRIELLE ROCCUZZO AS 2025 STYLING AMBASSADOR

Gabrielle Roccuzzo has been welcomed into the Dyson family as a Dyson Styling Ambassador for 2025. As the founder and creative director for Salon Gabrielle, Gabrielle brings almost two decades of experience, including celebrity style for such names as Elle Ferguson, Sophie Monk, Larsa Pippen, and Sophia Stallone, editorial expertise for titles such as Vogue Australia and Harper’s BAZAAR and international Fashion Week involvement, to the role.

Salon Gabrielle boasts two locations in Melbourne and Gabrielle has been recognised by the Australian Hair Fashion Awards (AHFA), winning for her transformative style. She also has a powerful digital presence with a growing audience of more than 120,000 followers and over 17 million video views.

“I’m thrilled to be working with Dyson, a brand that continues to lead the way in hair technology and innovation,” Gabrielle said. “As a stylist, I’m passionate about using the best tools to create flawless results, and Dyson’s commitment to performance and hair health aligns perfectly with my approach to styling.” www.dyson.com.au

www.kitomba.com

1800 161 101

UPFRONT

O&M REVEAL EMILY MANDER AND LINSON JAMISON AS CØR.CREATORS

O&M have named hairdressers Linson Jamison and Emily Mander as the latest member of their CØR.creator family.

Emily is well known for creating effortless, sun-kissed colour both in Australia and across the pond in the UK. Recently relocating to Australia from the UK, Emily will empower O&M hairdressers by sharing her laid-back approach, as well as by teaching high-impact colour and time-saving techniques.

“This feels like a dream come true, and I couldn’t be happier to be part of such an incredible team here in Australia,” Emily shared. “O&M is not just any brand; they are innovative, clean, and dedicated to supporting self-growth. Their commitment to clean, environmentally friendly products truly resonates with my values, and I feel completely aligned with their mission to create a positive impact in our industry.”

Linson is known as the “balayage expert” with a talent for effortless lived-in hair. He is based in Denver and educates globally.

“I’m beyond honoured to join Australia’s O&M as a Global COR.creator,” Linson shared. “Partnering with O&M was an easy decision. The brand is shaping the future of haircare with responsibility and purpose. This is the cleanest hair colour in the world, and proves you don’t have to choose between high performance and clean ingredients.” www.originalmineral.com.au

STELLAR® NAMES KOBI BOKSHISH, TOM WHITE AND GEORGIE JOHNSON AS BRAND EVANGELISTS

Australian-owned hair styling tool brand Stellar® has announced Kobi Bokshish, Tom White, and Georgie Johnson as Brand Evangelists, with more to come. The trio will connect with stylists across the industry to educate on and advocate for the brand.

Kobi is a former Global Hairdresser of the Year at the TCT Awards, as well as an international educator, salon owner, and co-founder of Ecoheads, who will help with the brand’s expansion into Europe. Tom boasts over 20 years in the industry as an award-winning stylist, international educator, and salon owner, primarily with Same Same But Different salons in Melbourne. With multiple Australian Educator of the Year finalist nods, he will aid in this realm for the brand. Finally, Georgie is an AHFA 2024 finalist with a passion for empowering the next generation in hair.

“Stellar’s styling tools are exceptional, featuring lightweight, innovative designs that will significantly contribute to the industry’s progress, particularly in reducing joint pain for long-term stylists,” Georgie said. “Additionally, Stellar has pioneered groundbreaking mineral technology that promotes long-term hair health, which I absolutely stand by and am excited to be a part of.”

“The passion that [founder] Koen [Verelst] and the Stellar team have for our industry is infectious,” Tom added. “Stellar is going to change the way we use hot tools with the technology, design and commitment to healthier, shinier hair.” www.stellarhair.com.au

THE UNWRITTEN APP REBRANDS AS HUSL

Welcome HUSL – the app formerly known as The Unwritten App has a new brand identity and a whole new version. Version 2 launched in early February, followed by a full rebrand. The new version has dynamic new tools and is available at no cost to hairdressing professionals.

The unique app allows hairdressers to combine wholesale and drop-shipping of a wide range of professional brands as an all-in-one business solution. Independent hairdressers can scale their sales without investment in inventory, as well as harness appointment, online booking, POS, payment and client-facing tools, without any subscription fees or added costs.

“This decision to rebrand the app HUSL was fuelled by our brand expansion and to better align the service with its growing portfolio of 14 partner brands, and counting, and to minimise confusion between the Unwritten haircare brand and the app,” said Rob Aubin, Co-Founder of HUSL.

The app offers hairdressers the opportunity to configure processing times and manage multiple clients during downtime, as well as delivering a new appointment book that’s faster, sleeker, more visible and more flexible.

Updated features include the introduction of TaptoPay, which allows hairdressers to take payments directly on their phone for totally flexible transactions. Other features such as drag-and-drop appointments, which allows users to easily move bookings across days with helpful availability prompts to avoid schedule conflicts, and zoom and swipe gestures, which allow users to easily navigate, find and manage their schedule and appointments, add to the interface.

The hero element of the app, its drop-ship and wholesale shipping shortcuts, offers quick access to these services and a personalised eStore that streamlines retail options from hairdressers to clients. https://pro.unwritten.hair

EDWARDSANDCO PARTNERS WITH QIQI

Jaye Edwards has introduced Qiqi into EdwardsAndCo salons, adding to his continued ambassadorship with Parlux and Malibu C in his partnership with Dateline Imports. Jaye is known as the power behind the EdwardsAndCo juggernaut, from a salon empire to products and education, and his expertise in colour, trends and beyond is essential in these roles.

“The Qiqi Hair Controller Hair Treatment is easy to use while also creating such a beautiful shine. It isn’t damaging to the hair and is more flexible with hair colour as it doesn’t strip or damage the colour,” Jaye shared about Qiqi.

Jaye will continue to create and share expert educational content on topics such as boosting revenue, business growth and beyond in partnership with these brands, and will also share social media content about the brands and their impact in his work and salons. www.datelineimports.com.au

FAYE REDFERN NAMED AS SHOWPONY HAIR EXTENSIONS GLOBAL BRAND AMBASSADOR

Showpony Hair Extensions has named Faye Redfern as their new Global Brand Ambassador.

The company delivers premium, high-quality and Ethically Sourced Remy A+ Hair Extensions, and Faye’s appointment will only continue to further their global growth.

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Faye Redfern of HER Salons in Perth to the Showpony family as our newest Global Brand Ambassador,” said Nadine Johns-Alcock, General Manager of Showpony Hair Extensions. “Faye is renowned for her effortlessly cool, lived-in hair transformations that combine luxury with approachability—an aesthetic that resonates deeply with today’s modern client. Her unique ability to create dimensional, natural-looking extensions has earned her a loyal following and makes her an incredible asset to our network across 18 countries.”

Faye is an influential hairdresser internationally, leading the HER on Oxford salon in Perth, and her work with Showpony Hair Extensions in creating voluminous looks makes this the ideal partnership. In this role, Faye will create educational content across all Showpony hair extension methods, from tape-ins to clip-ins and beyond.

www.showponyaus.com.au

SLOANS SALON CELEBRATES 25 YEARS

Sloans salon is celebrating 25 years as a celebrated hair fashion hub, since being established in 2000 by industry leader Scott Sloan. Emerging in its Lane Cove location and upgrading those premises and expanding to other North Shore locales since, the flagship space is a renowned epicentre of luxury hair.

“What an incredible journey the past 25 years have been for myself and the Sloans team,” Scott shared. “From seeing our work featured in editorial shoots and campaigns, to creating award-winning photographic collections and championing education within the industry, every moment has been fuelled by passion and purpose. Above all, it’s been the day-to-day connections with our amazing clients that truly defines Sloans. I’m so grateful to our team, our peers, and the wider industry for the ongoing support and inspiration. Here’s to the next 25 years- we’re just getting started.” www.sloans.com.au

NAK COLLECTIVE

Built from a brand with a strong sense of connection, loyalty and looking out for each other, NAK Hair’s ever-expanding collective is united by an ego-free culture that was further explored and validated at the first ever NAK Collective Business Forum on the Gold Coast over March 13 and 14, writes Cameron Pine.

With kindness at the heart of a community of hairdressers, salon owners, colourists and stylists, NAK staff and management and some of our industry’s most loved and coveted speakers made up a collective of more than 150 individuals primed for connection at the infamous QT Hotel, all with the same intention of expanding their mindset and knowledge, free of ego.

With a completely new repackage launched as of May 12 and a bold new direction across professional haircare, colour and all-inclusive education, it’s no wonder more stylists are deep-rooted to NAK’s feeling of belonging and growing sense of self.

Emceed by NAK’s charismatic education manager, Raymond Rozema, Raymond kept the energy upbeat and approachable throughout the two full days of empowering practices. First to formally address the group was NAK’s relatively new CEO who joined the business in November last year, Marc Boelen. Marc discussed the immense potential for growth in professional haircare, changes to the online versus retail landscape mix and how to embrace the changes for the better.

Fiona Del Vecchio, Head of Sales and Education, spoke of the importance and objective of collective and the wonderful support from everyone to make the event happen for the first time, in addition to

insights from an industry report that showed a spend increase but a shift to longer client visit intervals. At the heart of the NAK culture is the Australian inertia that continues to drive the brand and its heritage – this culture is seemingly well received within the global haircare landscape with expansion into over 50 new markets and 6 per cent growth in the category.

Fiona plays a key role in shaping NAK’s strategic direction and driving business growth and has the ‘family’ culture of NAK close to her heart.

“The forum is about connection, collaboration and a chance for us to get together, share insights and thoughts, create friendships, new ideas and strengthen the bonds that make our industry feel so unique and impactful,” Fiona said.

From booking deposits and ways to better engage the consumer and keep everyone accountable, and with cancellations and no-shows becoming more prevalent, the need for online bookings and deposits is increasing, and the collective is all about creating that confidence to back your work and charge what you’re worth.

To top it off a fair portion of content was centred around a grounded perspective to everyday challenges and to help stylists and salon owners better handle stress and inturn be able to reach and service more clients and communicate better with the team.

On the notion of communication, the first speaker was Voulla Fronis, Founder of Gellibn – an app designed to improve communication and feedback between business owners and team leaders. Voulla helped salons to re-connect with the why of their business and work towards their goal with an entire team that’s on board with their vision.

Sonia Thomas, AKA The Salon Dr, told her story of getting into hairdressing from another sales role and how she thrived off a commission-based role that teaches you to be accountable for every process in business. Sonia then shared how to scale retail sales very quickly with a few simple steps.

“It's not up for us to decide whether our clients can afford it or not. I've seen staff doing consultations and it's so resistant,” she said. “Don't be reactive in your business. I know numbers are a really sticky subject and we don't like to have these conversations, but if you actually map out what that looks like for your staff you will be proactive and not reactive.”

Social coach Ash Bailey took on one of the first ever social media roles for busy retail giant Westfield before falling in love with hairdressing when she accepted a role heading social media and content at a leading hairdressing distributor in Australia. Ash emphasised the importance of strategy, filming, and editing skills, noting that Instagram users have shorter attention spans due to other distractions

like Netflix and conversations – so we need to get their attention in the first three seconds. This includes starting videos with engaging grabs and showing the creator's face to ensure there is immediate audience rapport.

“I love the concept of a ‘hair and non-hair’ ratio, where 50 per cent of the grid is beautiful hair and the other 50 per cent is process, people, place, and product to maintain interest and value,” Ash said. Ash’s content centred around building connections with people through content that shows who you really are.

“It’s all about leveraging your team members to capture content, use tripods, and multiple devices to simplify content creation without needing a fulltime social media manager,” Ash said.

Finishing day one, guests partied with a touch of sparkle at QT’s infamous Stingray Bar complete with live music and fun photo opportunities.

Hannah Cash, Chief Marketing Officer at NAK Hair, presented the brand’s new marketing direction with new imagery and an exciting new packaging rebrand, heralded by a shoot in Sydney’s Palm Beach. 11 models, 18 crew, four months of planning and shoot prepping and more than 5,000 images and film to process all showcase the new brand pillars.

First, ‘we stand by every strand with products designed to support the hair no matter where it’s at’. Secondly, ‘we are hair professionals – born in the salon, we have a unique heritage and expertise’. Thirdly – ‘we embrace hair’s future by continuing to adapt formulas methods and goals – with innovation at the core and embracing change’. Lastly, ‘we are true to our roots with a down to earth philosophy –we believe in big hair and not big heads’.

From shoots in Brisbane, immense success at Cosmoprof Bologna, new packaging, images and campaigns to Fashion Week and more, getting salons and stylists across the complete rollout and NAK’s plans to further help salons was in the spotlight.

To further immerse guests into the brand, NAK showcased a beautiful retail display and styling station activation where guests were given the chance to play with the new NAK Signature products, including a claw machine that had everyone lining up to join the fun.

From hair used to soak up oil spills, to producing items from sunglasses to plant fertiliser and beyond, Paul Frasca’s sustainability passion spans various industries but always comes back to his beloved responsibility in hair, as co-founder of Sustainable Salons.

“To give you one funny fact, your hair acts exactly the same as a tree. It's sucking in carbon. Your hair is 50 per cent carbon. We need to get that back into the ground, because that's really important for the planet, and that's the meaning of sustainability,” said Paul.

Leadership expert Kym Krey has spent decades leading teams to be one of Australia’s most engaging specialists that focuses on helping business owners show up as their most authentic version of themselves. She not only provides tools and statistics on how to achieve goals, but designs allencompassing ideas and programs and resources specifically to lead hairdressing salons into a new realm of success.

“Your uniqueness is the magic in what you do, you have to extract that out of your head and over your soul and put it into a process that you can immerse your team,” Kym said. “You need to put the systems in place to get benefits through others. There is a big transformation here and it’s you - you are no longer a hairdresser that owns a salon – you need to tap into your inner CEO because you have a business to run.”

Julie Cross was the ideal finishing speaker Believing we have an energy crisis in this country - and not in terms of power - Julie discusses the energy signature that we are bringing to our clients, plus our own emotional wellbeing and how to protect it. Julie is empowering, relatable, funny and keeps it real – she talks about her everyday struggles and is also uplifting. She gives you that loving push to get you out of your own way and to take action.

“When we have a healthy sense of self and our sparkle is bright, we don’t need anything else to give us that push,” Julie said.

Previously having run state-based events, NAK’s first nationwide event not only celebrated gratitude and growth, but a brand with a pleasant disposition free of ego. United through personal experiences, highlighting the importance of resilience, gratitude, and maintaining a positive attitude, even during challenging times, the overall sentiment was uplifting. All sessions concluded with a call to action for participants to apply these principles in their own businesses. Combined with NAK’s collectively laid-back approach, each guest was given the perfect level of push. Sometimes all it takes is a tiny spark — a glimpse that maybe something better is possible. The exact spark that ignites the emotional fire to leap forward, to meet more people, see ideas and discover new mentors, or just get the chance to feel like we are not alone in this increasingly challenging world in business.

Big hair and not big heads. Thank you NAK. For more information visit www.nakhair.com.au

WEEKEND OF MEN’S

Over 2000 barbers gathered on the Gold Coast to bring that signature barbering energy to the Convention Centre over May 3 to 5, with engaging education, enthusiasm as well as new barber products amongst a signature ‘brotherhood’ for the second iteration of Expo4Barbers.

Starting on Saturday evening May 3, the Barber Battle saw 23 international and local judges watch almost 100 competitors in a variety of different competitions create clean fades, strong lines and current street looks. With some as young as 16, this raw talent is all about promoting the future of the industry and this night did not disappoint while showcasing the creativity and culture of barbering.

With Expo4Barbers starting bright and early on Sunday May 4, VIP attendees were given an up-close education experience that set the standard for the day filled with on-stage education, break out education sessions with ample time to walk the exhibition floor. International educators such as Josh O’meara-Patel and Yahia Jaber hit the floor with stand demonstrations, new electrical tools and software. There

was also a bingo competition with a winning prize pool of over $15,000.

Day two of the event started with the Depot Barber Competition with six finalists vying on stage to win the coveted prize. With more stage education and opportunities to also win a chin up competition on the Blak Haircare stands, the floor was filled with business building conversations and connections. Thanks to the vision of Fraser Forsey, this connection for the industry is here to stay and in November the Expo4Barbers moves to New Zealand for it’s first event across the ditch.

To finish the weekend, the industry hit Surfers Paradise on the Island Hotel for the Australian Modern Barber Awards. Held annually, the awards were moved this year to align with the expo. Some of the evening’s big winners included Empire

Congratulations to the winners!

AMBA Style Product of the Year

REF Rough Paste by Smiths Collective Brands

Best ANZ Barber Collection - Junior Duncan Black, Harrison and Co Barbers

Best ANZ Barbershop Team Member of the Year

Regan Walklin, Kings Domain Barbershop

Best ANZ Business Director/Owner of the Year

Robby Lippet, Attaboy

Best ANZ Barber Educator of the Year

Damian Lai

Best ANZ Barber Collection - Classic

Gianni, Sollazzo, Esq. Male Grooming

Beat ANZ Barber Collection - Freestyle

Jordan Donegan, Studio X

Best ANZ Customer Care

The Studio-X

Best ANZ Barbershop Design

Common Barbershop

Best Educator - Organisation

The Barber Academy X 4 Barbers

Best ANZ Team Collection

Hearts & Minds

International Barber of the Year

Rino Riccio, UK

BTS Crew

Photographer: Theresa Hall

Stylist: Ysha Giorno

MUA: Sarah Smith

For Ryan Poole, Modern Barber Collection

ANZ Modern Barber Business of the Year

Empire Barbershop

ANZ Modern Barber of the Year

Matt Clarke, Esq. Male Grooming

Special Recognition

Jimmy O’Brien, AKA Jimmy Rod

AMBA Hall of Fame

Clare Castles

Barbershop, named ANZ Modern Barber Business of the Year 2025, Matt Clarke of Esq. Male Grooming, announced as ANZ Modern Barber of the Year, Jimmy O’Brien, AKA Jimmy Rod, who was awarded Special Recognition and Clare Castles, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame.

For more information visit www.expo4barbers.com.au

buildable + lightweight formula won’t weigh down hair*

touchable volume + bounce for up to 2 days* humidity resistant

*k18hair.com/disclaimers

CODE

KEVIN.MURPHY+CODE launched at national events with drinks, canapes and bold looks ushering in a new era of colour.

Welcome KEVIN.MURPHY+CODE, a new colour offering from KEVIN MURPHY that launched with education events in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth, unveiling the new technology through March and April. The permanent colour draws from skincare technology, with sustainability, innovation and professional values that define this new modern offering.

“CODE is about high-performing colour that aligns with the core values of our company,” Kevin explained. “We recognised the need for products driven by innovative skincare in this space, so we created them. We believe that CODE represents a new level of advanced professional hair colour that goes beyond expectations”.

In Sydney, amidst canapes and drinks at the city’s famous Chin Chin venue, a myriad of high-profile hairdressers and colourists took to the stage. Kevin himself was joined by Kate Reid and Marie Cain to present four models on stage, adorned in 70s inspired disco and rockabilly fashion and glamour. The pair talked through the colour and styling of the looks, which ran the gamut from bold reds to more natural brunettes and the classic KEVIN.MURPHY beachy look in a versatile display of both commercial and editorial creativity. Effortless soft waves and texture, next to a trending bob and hair sewing were also some of the techniques on offer.

Then, KEVIN.MURPHY COLOR.MASTER

Alexander Fuchs led a panel discussion with Marie, Brett Albury and Kristina Russell, all renowned colourists and salon leaders, to talk about the new hues.

“It lifts, deposits and adds shine, and it’s still really shimmery and sparkly whether you’re going light or dark, so I’m in love,” Marie shared.

“We’re getting phenomenal results,” Brett added. “It’s changed the way we approach a colour service. From a technical point of view, it’s so flexible the way colour can be intermixed together so it’s increased creativity. I love the ‘Specials’, the concentrates or boosters, and how they can be used by themselves for intense vibrancy, shine and clarity, but also how they can be mixed with all the other colours.”

The colour is powered by KM.LAMELLAR Technology for transformative, rich, long-lasting colour. This improves the delivery of dye for more precise, consistent and effective results. The colour also delivers up to 100 per cent grey coverage, up to

four to five levels of lift and reliable results across all hair types and needs. The range also reports 100 per cent colour vibrancy, 150 per cent more event results, more shine and repair and increased colour durability.

Versatility is also paramount to the range, with 91 high-performing shades divided into four colour families for simple navigation. The colours range from natural, true-to-tone hues, to cool, neutralising colours, warm, luminous golds and then rich, vibrant options such as daring reds and other bold hues. Beyond these families, the range’s Special Colours allow total customisation of all CODE or BLONDE HIGH.LIFT SHADES for bright results. Then, the range’s Clear option is a dye-free formula designed to pastelise other CODE shades. Some CODE shades additionally contain the COLOUR.IGNITE Complex with a proprietary technology that enhances colour vibrancy, brightness and longevity.

Sustainability is vital to the range and KEVIN MURPHY at large and, as such, CODE is 100 per cent vegan and created with Organic Argan oil certified by Ecocert. The range’s packaging is made with recycled materials, including the aluminium tube and plastic cap, while the outer box being made from 80 per cent recycled cardboard.

Finishing the event’s proceedings with information on the brand’s education, colour wheel technology and digital offerings, attendees across the country discovered the environmental, artistic and considered power of KEVIN.MURPHY+CODE, before taking to the media wall and the bar. Discover CODE in your salon repertoire. For more information visit www.kevinmurphy.com.au

TOM WARR DOWN UNDER

UK hair pioneer Tom Warr brought his eclectic style to Australia in a series of education events presented thanks to CPR Hair.

Leading UK hairdresser Tom Warr travelled Australia for three weeks, educating for CPR Hair in Sydney, Melbourne and in Byron Bay for the CPR Salon Forum. Tom showcased his unique style, with entertainment, such as a drag queen show in Sydney, presenting his different, edgy and artistic aesthetic. Educating at the San Telmo Studio and the Blender Gallery in Sydney and Parental Advisory Hair in Melbourne, these warehouse style spaces also reflected the cool, London style that Tom is known for.

In his education, Tom shared insights from his versatile life, where he works in the salon two days a week and otherwise educates at a training academy, alongside key content creation that builds both his follower and client base.

His creative education spanned cutting angels and model positioning in editorial tips, with Sydney seeing an exclusive conversation between Tom and compere and renowned Aussie hairdresser Clive Allwright, which discussed Tom’s career and work in London.

Tom then demonstrated his signature looks, such as The Chelsea Haircut, which is based on the skinhead movement, as built from concepts of fashion, music and politics in the 1960s into mod culture in the subsequent decades. Tom expressed the client demand and social media support he has for this cut, which can be modified and personalised to suit your clients, in a “cool girl” hair cut that’s surprisingly popular.

The education session shared key insights and advice to aid attendees in their cutting and styling. He advised attendees to always carefully assess the hair when drying with a diffuser to ensure detail and texture in the hair. Tom also advised to learn the foundations of hair and be brave with cutting, and explained his ratio of 80 per cent of time spent actually cutting in the service, to 20 per cent of the time spent on detail. He showcased how to slice off weight freehand to gain texture and also spoke of his inspiration from industry greats such as Eugene Souleiman, Guido Palau and Sally Brooks.

Through both hair cut demonstrations, Tom discussed the importance of unique and known branding and finding your niche, while Tom and Clive also shared insights on pricing models, making each education evening an inspirational outing for both business and creative knowledge. For more information visit www.cprhair.com

DO GOOD

DunGüd launched their ‘Do Good’ campaign at a series of events that have ignited a true global movement.

Aussie-made haircare brand DunGüd is growing a cult following, and their all-new ‘Do Good’ campaign launched at Melbourne, Adelaide and WA events over March and April to further the brand and the movement.

The campaign was made to inspire hairdressers and salons to seek innovation, be inclusive, value honesty, make ethical choices and keep things simple, as rooted in the brand’s real, effortless and cool ethos. The campaign acts as a true call to action for hair professionals to consider people, hair and planet in their choices.

The back-to-back, sold-out launch events in Melbourne and Adelaide brought

together over 200 hairdressers for inspirational, educational parties, where attendees were inspired by the DunGüd Creative Team on stage. Nathan Forbes from Parlour, Adelaide, Tom White from Same-Same in Melbourne and Bec Snow of Alchemy, also in Melbourne, led the way on stage, while the Melbourne event also featured renowned session hairdresser Lauren McCowan, who collaborated on the official campaign shoot. Brand founder Phil Taylor hosted both events, while Pete Koziell from Analog Hair photographed the Melbourne event. DunGüd then followed these launch events with another occasion in WA on April 7.

The events offered the chance at big prizes including exclusive education

sessions, premium product packs and scissors from Excellent Edges, amidst the inspiring hair artistry, flowing drinks and energised atmosphere that made up the event.

From here, DunGüd are looking at global stops on the ‘Do Good’ campaign planned in the next months for Europe and Asia, in a series of events rolled out with the brand’s international distributor network. DunGüd also presented the campaign at the largest industry B2B event in the world – Cosmoprof, Bologna.

Continuing its global reach with no sign of slowing down, DunGüd and the ‘Do Good’ campaign are taking over the world one city at a time. Be a part of it. For more information visit www.dungud.com

SUSTAINABLE DECADE

Sustainable Salons celebrated ten years of operation by kicking off a dynamic tour, and looked to the future as they continue to change the industry – and the world.

Sustainable Salons is celebrating ten years of their inimitable impact on the salon industry, and touring Australia and New Zealand in honour of the milestone. Having already stopped by the likes of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Auckland, Adelaide and beyond, the tour will continue throughout 2025 in 13 separate presentations and donate one hundred per cent of proceeds from ticket sales to OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest.

Celebrating the organisation’s members, partners, and supporters who have joined and helped to build the movement since 2015, the tour brings together salon communities to hear from local members, look back at what’s been achieved and look ahead at what’s to come.

Kicking off the tour amidst food and wine on March 17 at Wild Life Hair in Milsons Point, Sydney, Sustainable Salons co-founder Paul Frasca shared the brand journey that he started with his partner and fellow co-founder Ewelina Soroko. The company went from launching Refoil to building the Sustainable Salons network, which has since diverted over 2.1 million kilograms of salon waste from landfill, contributed more than 394,000 meals to OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest and achieved so much more in their list of accomplishments. The organisation now

also boasts 1500 members and employs 46 supported workers with disabilities.

Talking through the ten-year brand journey, Paul also touched on highlights such as The Hairy Couch, which was filled with 20 kilograms of hair, and the more recent advent of manufacturing retail-worthy profits from waste materials to sell back to your clients –think combs, fertilisers and beyond. The organisation continues to revolutionise waste management across various and specialised locales and invest in further research that is contributing to the future of upcycling through salon materials.

Extensive recycling includes over 670,000 kilograms of recycled metal, 180,000 kilograms of hair, 86,000 litres of chemical waste, where 98 per cent of colour wastage is water, 563,000 kilograms of plastic and almost 300,000 ponytails of donated hair. Additionally, 394,000 meals have been donated to the disadvantaged, while environmental innovations such as hair booms, used to soak up oil spills, continue to intelligently help the planet.

Looking ahead to the future of Sustainable Salons, attendees were given a first look at the latest Sustainable Salons innovations in development, including the continued future of hair booms, bricks made of hair, research projects on how hair can be transformed into graphite and

the development of oil from soft plastics, alongside other inventive uses for salon waste. New product offerings such as an upcoming coffee table book will also launch through this tenth year, with releases to be discovered at Hair Festival 2025.

In the spirit of community, attendees also heard from members and partners. Event sponsor Shortcuts presented key business trends, with Chloe Wilson discussing changing staff sizes, SMS marketing and rebooking, while also talking about Shortcuts’ important relationship with Sustainable Salons.

Gary Latham from Wild Life Hair Origin, Nicki Ranatunga from Salon Purpose, and Sascha Craven-Sands from Sage Hair & Beauty Lounge then gave their personal stories about the impact of sustainability in their salon businesses.

Sascha shared the story behind her Tame Your Nest product, while Nicki spoke about her grassroots community work and shared the growth of her salon from a home salon to an award-winning, 19-stylist space, which also raises money for Ugandan women and national women’s shelters. In donating up to $100,000 over five years, Nicki believes that “hair with heart” helps her business, opining that the “vibe attracts the tribe”. Finally, Gary explained how he engaged his team through a salonwide competition and how sustainable practices have transformed the esteemed Wild Life salon brand.

“Ewelina and I wanted to celebrate 10 years of epic impact by bringing the party to the people who made it all happen – our network,” Paul shared. “Diverting over 2 million kilograms of salon waste is all them. Kicking things off in Sydney was unreal – it was so good to see our amazing members, partners and supporters come together, and we’re pumped to hit more cities and share what’s next for their waste!”

Happy tenth birthday to Sustainable Salons – the next ten years and beyond are sure to continue to change the world and the salon industry for the better.

For more information visit

web.sustainablesalons.org/sustainable-salons-on-tour/

THE PRESENT TIME

Davines launched their latest colouring offering at a series of Crafted education events, with the brand's Hair Art Director, Tom Connell , inspiring across the country and beyond.

Leading UK hairdresser Tom Connell, Davines’ Hair Art Director, travelled to Australia and New Zealand to tour and educate on behalf of the brand, and we were at Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art to witness the inaugural stop.

Celebrating all things craft, community and culture, the event congregated local and global heavy-hitters to take to the stage to discuss the brand’s approach ans show off some looks, amidst drinks, fittingly Italian food and a finale of a live photoshoot. All of this was to showcase the new THE PRESENT TIME collection of colours, and Tom’s artistic creations inspired by the technology.

The event, collection and colour range drew inspiration from the concept of Japanese Omikuji, which are proverbs and fortune slips usually found at temples or shrines. The colour range’s boxes showcase different proverbs next to the collection’s trademark red line, encouraging busy colourists to take a moment to pause and reflect while mixing colour, ushering in the name THE PRESENT TIME. The event utilised this concept as well, presenting a tree with various proverbs hanging from it on display. That idea also anchored Tom’s campaign to complement the collection.

“I liked the aesthetic of this white background, so I made an art installation. We hired a gallery in Modena and commissioned an artist to paint these huge white canvases with a clean red line cutting through the present time,” Tom shared.

“That was the inspiration, it was an art installation that people could visit and the models spent two days walking around and we took portraits of them. We wanted to show every type of colour, from blondes to coppers and darker browns and more vibrant reds, and we wanted to show the performance of the products on different ethnicities and hair types as we’re in over 92 countries. You want as many people in the world to see a version of themselves or their clients.”

These versatile looks were presented by Tom on stage, as he showcased three looks that ran the gamut between more commercial and Avant Garde,

Nadina Thelen Ray and Tom Connell

both of which Tom sees extreme value in, as images from both types of shoots were shown on screen. Live shaping, cutting and styling took place on stage in what Tom described as “cutting and colouring for a person, not on a person”, culminating in a final artistic look with hair used as a mask. Through it all, guests were shown a mood board with a missing piece – filled in later that night in a live photoshoot of the looks.

Joining Tom on stage was colourist Nadina Thelen Ray, with information before the education showcase from both local and international representatives, such as Olivia Toohey and Vanessa Esposito. Vanessa explained the European Regenerative Organic Centre that is driving the sustainability processes of the brand.

Davines’ Global General Manager and Director, Mark Giannandrea, also from the UK, gave rare insights from the top of the brand, especially in relation to the education event.

“Crafted is built up of three pillars – culture, community and education. Culture is the inception of everything we do, our cultural inspiration is one of the key things that drives our design stage and then, without community, and you guys, we don’t have a business,” he said.

The brand’s focus on sustainability and innovation were in full focus as the audience learned of the technology behind the products, alongside this vital focus on culture and community. Davines’ Creative Director Maria Vittoria also made the long trek over from Europe to share her approach to this collection and the brand at large.

“If a brand isn’t a community, it dies, if it’s detached from us,” Maria shared. “THE PRESENT TIME gives a way for people to be seen beyond what we’re doing, ensuring you’re a name more than a profession. It’s a colour but there’s something for you as a person, not as a colourist. The main pillar

for Davines is culture, inside the culture we also have sustainability of course, but we believe that culture is the only thread that unites all humans, where we can communicate our differences and uniqueness and empower people in this industry.”

The colour range itself prioritises both care and longevity as ammonia-free demi-permanent alkaline colour technology, which offers gentle lightening against comprehensive coverage for vibrancy and shine.

“This is a line that cares, it cares for your clients and it cares for the planet. Our patented Biomimetic technology restores the hair lipids for integrity during the hair colour, where you know the product will perform without the damage,” Olivia explained. “We’ve also in built the Biacidic bond complex, created in the Davines laboratories using a blend of two molecules, into the formulation, so we know we have those strengthening properties that we often miss when doing a colour service.”

This complex helps repair damaged bonds and protects hair from oxidative stress, while also combining with the formula to protect the hair from UV exposures and shampooing overtime.

Other key components such as natural coconut oil, which is a Regenerative Organic Certified (ROC) ingredient, and Omega 9, help to improve the hair structure and restore hair lipids, as always manufactured using processes that respect local communities and the environment. Patented plant-derived cellulose replace synthetic gelling agents, helping the biomimetic ingredients penetrate the hair fibre in a natural composition.

Sustainability is core to every facet of the technology. The colour cream is formulated with 88 to 93 per cent natural-origin ingredients and 89 to 99 per cent biodegradable ingredients, while activators are formulated with 93 to 95 per cent natural-origin ingredients. Easy rinsing formulas reduce water usage by up to 40 per cent compared to most alkaline colours. The recyclable packaging is composed from recycled and lightweight aluminum and FSC-certified paper and any plastic component is made of bio-circular mass-balance plastic, which is derived from renewable biomass.

The collection can be diversely used across a range of services, for a vibrant refresh to softening regrowth and broad coverage. Within these services, the brand has a radical approach to the longevity of the hues.

“It’s about the evolution, it’s colour that doesn’t fade, it evolves,” Tom explained. “When we were stress testing the line, we found that when we shampooed it, it evolved into something that was still beautiful, so we documented that in the shoot over three, six, nine and twelves shampoos so you can see the gradual evolution of the colour.”

Fusing artistry, environmentalism and science at every turn, Crafted showcased the power of THE PRESENT TIME, for your inner artist and your inner human, thanks to Davines.

For more information visit world.davines.com

CØR.CREATOR RETREAT

O&M’s 2025 CØR.Creator Retreat welcomed a big year for the brand, including shifting roles and industry legend Ludovic Dellazzeri joining the team at the helm as CEO.

O&M honoured creativity all in one spot, bringing together some of Australia’s most talented colourists for one huge weekend of education, creativity and wellness in the 2025 CØR.Creator Retreat.

“Bringing together our CØR.creators is always a great start to the year,” shared Jose Bryce Smith, O&M Founder. “We are always growing and learning together, so, to have so many talented creators in one room sharing their knowledge, giving feedback, and lifting each other up, it’s a privilege and a wonderful community to be part of. This retreat reminds me why I love the hairdressing industry and why O&M was born.”

The event was hosted at the Swell Byron Bay and treated guests to ice baths, yoga, and expert-led sessions on dynamic topics such as burnout and TikTok growth, as well as giving news on O&M’s latest product innovations. The event provided an immersive and versatile approach to business elevation and personal growth.

The retreat flew in guests from all over the country to connect, recharge, be inspired and elevate their craft. Led by

Jose, other big names included leading hairdressers such as Jaye Edwards, Dane Wakefield, Kirsty Anne Sage, Amelia Jane, Charlie Gauci, Sheridan Rose Shaw, Daniel Jianing Liu, Travis Bandiera, Jordan Doroschuk, Bec Wyatt and more

“2025 is going to be a big year for O&M, and we aligned our goals and focused on upskilling in all areas, giving our creators the tools to grow their businesses beyond the chair,” Jose said. “We had guest speakers from TikTok sharing insights on how to level up your salon and personal brand, and an empowering session with psychologist Catherine Devine on managing burnout.”

“As always, there was lots of laughing, lots of growth, and some moving moments. Hairdressing is such a giving profession—our aim is to elevate, and when we support each other and nurture our own health, we create our best work—and that’s what O&M is all about.”

In that big year for the brand, O&M have officially named industry veteran Ludovic Dellazzeri as the new CEO of the brand, while Jose will take on the role of Founder & Chief Visionary Officer (CVO). Ludovic brings more than 25 years of national and

international experience in titles such as Managing Director of ghd ANZ, as well as with brands including the L’Oréal Group. His ability to transform businesses, develop teams, and accelerate growth will be pivotal in O&M’s development, as the brand looks ahead to almost twenty years of operation, building on Jose’s vision and leadership around redefining clean haircare and colour in professional hair.

“This transition allows me to stay focused on our original vision—creating the highest-performing clean colour and kind haircare in the world. O&M has always been about pushing boundaries, proving that hair colour can be both clean and high performing,” Jose shared. “With Ludovic’s expertise and support, we are in the strongest position yet to bring this vision to life on an even larger scale. This next chapter is all about innovation and education to support the growing global O&M community, which currently spans 18 countries.”

“I am excited to join the O&M family that, under Jose’s vision, has pioneered a new, dynamic, and inclusive approach to the professional hairdressing industry— built on clean, kind, and high-performing products that resonate with the demands of today’s hairdressers and consumers,” Ludovic added. “From a local business that has grown into a global brand, I look forward to working with the O&M team and our hairdresser partner community to further scale up the incredible brand, products, and support it offers.”

For more information visit www.originalmineral.com.au

Ludovic Dellazzeri and Jose Bryce Smith

BREAKFAST WITH TOMMI

REF Stockholm and Smiths Collective Brands hosted the brand’s board member, Tommi Svanberg , across Australia, and we joined them for an unforgettable morning.

REF Stockholm and Smiths Collective Brands hosted Tommi Svanberg, an international REF Stockholm Global Sales Director, for a breakfast at The Charles in Glebe, Sydney, before further events in Melbourne, at The Botanical in South Yarra, and an exclusive invitation at Maurice Meade salon in Perth.

Hairdressers from around Australia attended to hear more unique insights about a brand that’s expanded into 50 countries, and to learn about what’s next for REF, in this series of Australian presentations from Tommi.

Hosted by Brian and Jane Smith from Smiths Collective Brands, the duo welcomed guests to the breakfast in Sydney. The pair spoke about the significance of REF in the Smiths Collective Brands portfolio since the distribution company began. REF was created in 2004 by Jan Ernstberger and has been under the helm of his son Edward, who has been CEO for the past six years.

A commitment to a combination of nature and science is vital for the brand, while products sold also contribute to reforestation in Europe. REF has recently achieved its goal of producing 100 per cent vegan, cruelty-free, sulphate and paraben free formulations and is 100 per cent climate compensated. The brand boasts over 50,000 hairdressers and three global offices, where a family first mentality and professional mindset are significant.

“Visiting Australia was an incredible experience – the energy, creativity, and passion within the hairdressing community truly inspired me. I was moved by the warmth and professionalism of

every person I met; it’s clear that Australian salons combine creative vision with a strong commitment to quality, education, and forward-thinking innovation,” Tommi shared.

“Spending time with Brian and Jane from Smiths Collective Brands was a personal highlight – our long-standing partnership has been instrumental in building REF’s presence and impact in this market. Seeing how strongly REF is embraced in Australia fills me with pride. Our shared values of sustainability, performance, and style are clearly resonating, and I’m more excited than ever about the future of REF in Australia.”

In Sydney, attendees heard from hairdressers including the renowned Wendy Gunn of Ink for Hair in Queensland, as well as Leon from Sydney’s Ruff Kut Hair Studio. Leon discussed the unique travel sized products, while Wendy shared insights on the styling products and professional focus, as well as her favourite tool – Fibre Boost. The new Illuminate Colour Instant Shine, Intense Hydrate Styling Cream and Rough Wax, launched in 2025, point to the future of the brand.

In Perth, over 90 hairdressers attended an exclusive event at Maurice Meade Academy, learning about REF’s 2025 campaign, titled “For Every Hair – For Everyone”, which celebrates diversity, inclusion and natural beauty. Dan Hemsley, Maurice Meade’s Director of Education, REF Technician Elia Rockdahl and the REF Ambassador team prepped models to showcase this campaign, while also explaining the cut and colour techniques of each collection look. For more information visit www.smithscollectivebrands.com.au

Maurice Meade, Jane Smith, Brian Smith, Tommi Svanberg and Rosemary Meade

ELEVATE THE PRO

Taking over Brisbane’s illustrious new Star entertainment precinct, more than 300 L’Oréal Professional Products Division salons, ambassadors and enthusiastic stylists embraced unparalleled innovation, premium hair and beauty experiences, authentic connection and elevating the salon business, all while signalling the true power of the PRO at PRO CONNECT 2025, writes Cameron Pine.

An annual gathering that’s about so much more than hairdressing business and the challenges facing the professional industry, L’Oréal PPD’s approach is relentlessly zoomed in on the positives and the opportunities that lie in the power of a leading professional mindset, products that create new services and a passion that focuses on strengths and not weaknesses. Through elevating the craft with innovation and the latest consumer and industry data the room was filled with a sentiment that’s about so much more than service but about the power of vulnerability, authenticity, worth, connection and elevating the salon business in the process – something that PRO Connects’

commitment to the professional uncovers like no other industry gathering. With the theme of ‘elevate’ being present in every moment and avenue from AI to in real life, actively sharing experiences that create change and build an emotional connection between our industry and consumers remains the aim. The considerable opportunity for growth in an Australian and New Zealand market is evident in the fact that more consumers are going to salons than the global average – the potential for growth remains our salvation.

Bridging the divide between all brands and uniting salon that use many, one or a combination of L’Oréal Professionnel, Matrix, Redken and Kérastase, each brand showed the power and potential in the Gloss hair trend and the ‘skinification of hair’ – with online figures surmounting to millions of views and searches across social channels for each and all.

Not only does PRO Connect encourage full evaluation of every salon’s current marketing strategy and consider implementing a 360-degree, 12-month education and execution plan, but encourages authenticity and organic client growth through using the tools of innovation to help focus on creativity.

Our energetic emcees for the entire program tied all the moments together in simplified bite-sized messages. Sally Humphrey, ANZ Field Excellence and Capabilities Manager, and Brendan Moroney introduced the PPD divisions lead who used positivity and opportunity to inspire all in the room to go after the consumer like never before. Carlos Figueiras spoke of the positive seven per cent growth year on year, despite a challenging landscape and professional sentiment.

“The potential of the Australia and New Zealand markets is really strong – compared to the UK for example where there are 10 per cent less consumers than Australia and New Zealand going to salons. In the UK only 37 per cent do colouration in salon while here it is more than half,” Carlos said.

These numbers prove how important our industry is across both countries. How much our consumers love to go to the salon and our sense of growth. Out of 9.7 million consumers going to the salon everyday – only 25 per cent confirm they have an indulgent

backbar treatment in the salon. This shows the incumbent opportunity for having retail sales and personalised services inextricably linked.

Only 31 per cent of the target market buys premium products, presenting a significant prescription opportunity across new product innovations, especially scalp care, hair loss and INOA ammonia-free colour for example.

“Innovative tools like K-SCAN by Kérastase have seen salons outperform, with a 30 per cent increase in retail sales. The discussion emphasised the importance of personalised beauty experiences, sustainable practices, and leveraging social media for branding. Key strategies included consistent client experiences, team training, and leveraging global trends like gloss, a skincare approach where consumers use an average of five-plus products and scalp care. The opening power session concluded with advice on building a strong salon culture as well as various financial and business strategies among salon owners. Intimacy, elevated human experiences with technology, a green future and social responsibility all became pertinent. “That’s our responsibility, innovation with the myhair ID app, sustainability, always supporting our community, bringing new solutions for the industry.”

“This is the next generation tech for a better consultation, professional for diagnosis, unique inspiration and beautiful results,” concluded Carlos.

Pip Edwards, founder of PE.Nation and now the Global Creative Director of Ksubi, spoke of her incredible career of creativity and personal sacrifice, alongside David Mannah from M Division we were able gain an insight behind her success, how to ‘deconstruct to reconstruct’ your life, the reality of burnout and how her initial years in finance and PWC lead her even more strongly into the creative expression of fashion that was inherent in her from a young age.

“Say what you mean but never say it mean is one thing I really like to go by – it shows honesty and directness in every aspect of life. I choose the team around me to support me and give them autonomy with what they do. I can lead from the front vision and creativity to set the bar – but as a leader I actually lead from behind to give them the respect to take them on the journey, include them and to make it fun,” Pip said.

A supreme Business Panel of dynamic salon owners included Michael Kelly (Salon HER), Jess Del Borello (Circles), Sam Elvy (Buoy Salon & Spa) and Brodie Tskinaris (Rokstar Salon) where vulnerable discussions across salon teams, leveraging technology, boundaries and mindset and creating resilient teams came to the fore. How to inspire, boundaries with salon staff, education and those little touches are what becomes the big things.

Jordan Kidner, Business Education Manager at L’Oréal, spoke of 2025’s biggest trends and what’s in the algorithm that drives consumers and growth#hairtok (9.1 billion), #hairtransformation (2.8 billion) and #haircaretips (1.5bn). Jordan uncovered five key

trends across the consumer and professional landscape including glossy hair, the skinification of hair, no damage, scalp care, hair treats and how these key areas of technology searches and professional recommendation drive success.

Rich Tran, the founder of Ultra Fade Hair Salon, is known for his iconic brand on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Rich discussed the challenges faced by opening a salon during COVID in a lower socioeconomic area with no foot traffic and how he managed to keep his business afloat by focusing on social media, sharing client experiences and storytelling.

“Another thing is how I incentivise my teamsome people are motivated by money and others are motivated by life skills. I think I realised that it’s a psychological kind of thing. You have to understand your people,” Rich said.

Rich’s team has amassed over 84 million views on YouTube and over 500,000 followers. His mission is not just about hair, he’s passionate about going into schools to help kids who are disengaged and show them what’s possible. “Hair connects people and builds trust. Consistency beats creativity and that’s how I have built my brand on social media – growth didn’t happen until I treated social like a booking client,” Rich said.

Alison Kent, Commercial Business Manager at L’Oréal, spoke of the group’s commitment to sustainability in 2030 and beyond.

Sustainability is a key focus for now and the future at PPD, to ensure their production can be maintained by the planet, from actioning sustainability in the salon to constantly pushing the boundaries and initiatives that both pros and consumers understand.

“By choosing L’Oréal brands L’Oréal is also choosing you and our future. We are getting better at this and together making a more beautiful sustainable future each and every client service through products that are both effective and more eco-friendly,” she said. L’Oréal is also one of the only companies to win top-tier sustainability awards globally more than nine times in a row.

Rebecca Broadhurst and Cara Riley enlightened and inspired us all with innovation in beauty tech

Mel Sutherland and Sheree Knobel

Sophia Hilton

Sally Humphrey and Brendan Moroney

including an exciting development in dryers with the soon to be released AirLight Pro that uses infra-red technology for a safer and less damaging drying experience just the tip of the iceberg.

“Great service is no longer a desire, it’s an expectation and when it comes to the service in the salon we have an advantage. Creative experiences that are both on trend and specialised to that individual and a sensorial back-basin pathway,” Rebecca said are all pivoted from advances in innovation.

PPD shows that consumers are willing to pay more for a great experience and an elevated salon service menu. “Innovation in beauty tech is crucial to creating a more inclusive and engaging experience – ultimately driving the elevation of the beauty industry – personal diagnosis, augmented reality and sustainable packaging all continue to create a more dynamic and consumer centric beauty landscape,” Cara said.

Sophia Hilton was back with even more meaning and honesty than ever before, sharing her personal journey and how her salon and education has changed, even in the last 12 months – her focus carries an indelible human touch that prioritises wellness for the entire salon team. “Those that have diversified have grown but those that haven’t have really felt it, and there are simple ways to continue to grow while eliminating financial worry to focus less on the little things we can’t control,” Sophia said.

For the last eight years Sophia has been running education under ‘Not Another Salon’ and now has introduced ‘Not Another Club’. She is confident this will be as big as Not Another Salon was with more business, more leadership, finances and more webinars under something called the ‘Umbrella 5’. “The reason I have called it this is that in the UK we are going through a bit of a storm and while I can’t stop the weather I can protect you from the rain through these five expert pillars,” Sophia said. “A positive money culture stems from allowing those in that can do things better than you.”

Jason Everett from the High Performance Salon Academy checked us all on the things we say to ourselves while simulating a real client conversation about a price rise using AI, as one of the many ways easier functions and growth is right in our face. Jason is the founder of several successful companies and co-founder of the High Performance Salon Academy, based in Northern California, which produces high power live and cutting edge online trainings. He has a strong online presence and is known for the short powerful anecdotes that help us action change.

“Too many people find that’s it’s easier to complain than keep going. So which mindset do you need to silence today? Your goal should be to deliver value, like when I’m asked to speak I never take it for granted – we must always leave everything on the table to create change,” he said.

Ending on a motivational high, Mark Visser is an Australian big wave surfer, author, keynote speaker, and mindset coach known for his

extraordinary feats in extreme surfing and his work in performance psychology. He gained international recognition in 2011 for surfing the massive waves at Jaws (Pe’ahi) in Maui at night—a world-first achievement dubbed “Night Rider” and wowed the audience with his videos searching monster waves and creating never before used devices and apparatus to make it all happen. Encouraging that belief in ourselves when things get hard and we face doubt is the only way to survive.

“We often don’t believe what we are capable of, a lot more than we currently have or are doing. If you do the work, surround yourself with great people and do what you say you will do you will always have success,” Mark said.

While all the business, technology, innovation and growth is one thing, the real reason, the salvation and the meaning why salons take themselves out of the salon and invest in a program like PRO Connect is just as much about the focus on living meaningful dreams and the importance of providing for family, health and purpose over burnout and material possessions. Because in hair, meaning creates money and meaning is also where we create an industry that keeps us.

It’s clear the role at PPD is to keep elevating, keep evolving, to challenge thinking and inspire action, so what are you doing if you’re not doing all these things?

You’re the PRO and L’Oréal Access is your access. It doesn’t get much more powerful than that. For more information visit www.lorealaccess.com

ZINK the element of hair

URBANA

The URBANA collection of inspiring looks by milk_shake® will take over Hair Festival 2025 in unmissable internationally led education, while the brand’s new Lifestyling Styling range will also be launched at the event.

URBANA will be the centre of milk_shake®’s Hair Festival 2025 offering, with the new collection showcased in the Education Sessions. The collection is described as “joyful, free and wandering”, with glossy textures, vivid and bright colours and soft and elegant haircuts comprising the collection.

Inspired by film and literature, the collection is a multi-lingual, globetrotting and confident editorial offering, with characters such as Marit, Nola, Pien, Charlotte, Sarah, Margarita, Marina, Jerry and Nina. Each of these colour looks showcase various harmonious, blended

colour shades, coppers and pinks, new colour blocking methods in pastel hues, lilacs and smoky lavenders, face-framing toning, natural lightening in small and sometimes asymmetrical blocks, merged cold and warm customisable blonde shades and neutral blondes. Styles and cuts cover contemporary medium bobs and lobs, movement without visible layering, a hero combination of a bowl cut, a pixie and a bob, tailored curls, 70s inspired cuts created with thinning scissors, razor and blunt cut techniques, fringe elements and more.

Educators from the milk_shake® Global Education Team will launch and teach this collection at Hair Festival. The

award-winning team boasts editorial, Fashion Week and global education expertise, as comprised of three-time British Hairdressing award winner Andrew Smith from the UK, cut, style and colour innovator Gianluca Grechi from Italy, barbering expert Luca Malnati and global educator Sabrina Nicolazzo.

The collection was created with the all-new Lifestyling Styling range, which will be nationally launched at the event. Made to style, define and hold with new, optimised formulas, this versatile collection is built on four separate product categories for all things style and finish.

Body & Volume is the first product category, with five products that texturise, strengthen the hair and prolong style, with tools such as Powder Pop, Medium Hold Gel, Liquid Styler, Volumizing Foam and Dry Shampoo for instantly lifted roots, definition, structure, control flexible hold, dimension and a refreshed look.

Texture & Shape products, such as the range’s Texturizing Spritz, Freehand Paste, Glossy Wax, Texturising Cream and Shaping Cream, boost density, flexible texture, light modelling, body, protection, longevity and structure.

The Hold & Fixing category finishes and maintains shape and style. A Sculpting Cream, Fixing Paste, Strong Hold Hairspray, Medium Hold Hairspray and Eco Strong Hairspray, which is a nonaerosol option, ensure volume, structure, detail definition and versatile medium to long-lasting hold as necessary. The Eco Strong Hairspray has a unique delivery system that’s ideal for precision styling.

Finally, the Smooth & Thermo group protects and treats hair from the heat. Smoothing Cream, Blow Dry Primer, Thermo Protector and Let It Shine each finish the hair with smoothness, natural hold, shine and gloss, while protecting the hair from heat styling in a non-aerosol mousse or spray formula as necessary.

All formulas in the range are created with a blend of naturally-derived active ingredients, including milk proteins, quinoa proteins and Integrity 41®, which is made with sunflower seed extract and rich in antioxidant polyphenols. These components help to condition, protect, build strength, improve softness, radiance and combability and extend the life of colour.

With inspiring looks and bold new products from lauded international educators all bursting into Hair Festival, don’t miss your chance to learn and create with milk_shake® at the event.

For more information visit www.conceptualbrands.com.au

THE NEW NAK ERA

Entering a new era that elevates the brand and its essentials while staying true to its approachable DNA, NAK Hair have proven their continual commitment to evolution with their new brand statement and product line that’s ‘formed from feedback’.

Founded in 2003 with a mission to create products that reflect a natural Australian culture and a simpler approach to professional haircare, onto international success with their vegan friendly, cruelty free and sulphate free products, NAK’s Signature range has undergone a complete brand refresh – spearheading a new era for the home-grown collection as it continually expands globally.

Here are five of the many reasons the new NAK re-brand goes beyond just product to connect to consumers and stylists with imagery, formulas and brand messaging that’s both relatable and aspirational.

NEW AND IMPROVED

The new NAK Signature collection has been elevated from the inside out - with refreshed, salon-ready packaging that pops on retail shelves and premium formulations designed to impress. While the new look feels modern, stylish, and shelf-worthy, the essence of NAK Signature remains unchanged: approachable, professional haircare made for real results. For salons, this means greater client appeal, stronger retail conversations, and a brand you’re proud to champion.

SUPERCHARGED FORMULA

At the heart of the NAK Signature collection is their most advanced formulation yet. Powered by hair-loving ingredients of Signature Peptides and

Ectoin Barrier Booster, each product is expertly designed to defend against the harsh Australian climate while delivering salon-quality results. These upgrades are more than just science-backed - they’re performance-proven, ensuring stylists and clients experience stronger, shinier, healthier hair, every time.

SIMPLIFIED ROUTINES

Simplified and colour coded ranges for shampoos and conditioners, treatments, styling, finishing and daily heroes make finding the go-to products easier than ever.

NEW HEROES

Building on the new era, NAK introduces two innovative additions to the Signature lineup. The Blowout Smooth Mist is your go-to prep spray for heat protection and long-lasting frizz control. The Styling Polish is a lightweight styler and finisher that smooths, adds shine, and defines with ease. These products are designed to slot seamlessly into salon routines and elevate

everyday styling - making them a must-have on your backbar and your shelves.

SUSTAINABILITY COMMITMENT

Partnering with One Tree Planted , NAK are turning every product into an opportunity for a greener planet.

“This new Signature energy is effortlessly cool, totally confident and ahead of the curve,” said NAK Hair Chief Marketing Officer, Hannah Cash. “What’s most exciting is that every part of this rebrand - from formulas to visuals - was formed from feedback. Our community told us what mattered most, and we delivered. NAK Signature is now even more aligned with what today’s client and stylist wants; modern, results-driven, and made to be seen.”

For more information visit www.nakhair.com.au

TRANSFORMATIVE STEPS

The muk Treat Plus+ Bond Restore System Pro is a revolutionary, restorative and detoxifying professional three step system, designed to deliver comprehensive bond repair, hydration, and protection for even the most chemically damaged hair.

As a salon professional, hair health is key to the quality of salon work, and Muk’s newest technology draws on the fact that hair health and strength depends on the efficacy of hydrogen, ionic and disulfide bonds, along with keratin and peptide chains that provide smoothness and elasticity to the hair. The muk Treat plus + Bond Restore System is your insurance policy as a professional, as new and advanced technology sent straight from Italy.

Protecting and rebuilding these bonds is essential for keeping hair strong, resilient and in peak condition for clients, especially when, over time, impurities, product build-up and environmental toxins accumulate on the hair.

The muk Treat plus + Bond Restore System is made for hairdressers as a simple, time efficient and effortless step that integrates easily into the salon workflow and is also compatible with all salon services without requiring much additional time. The system offers a premium service and enhances client care with the entire system taking around five to six minutes during the colour process. The streamlined protocol also aligns perfectly with colour services for efficient and flawless application.

Built with advanced technology for proven, high-performance results, the system uses a peptide amino acid sequence that penetrates into the cortex of the hair strand and reforms damaged disulfide bonds.

The system protects bond breakage up to 36 per cent, protects and prevents hair fibre damage and repairs hair after chemical services, when used as a total three-step system, including the Bond Detoxing Mist, Bond Restoring Mask and Bond Regenerating Cream.

The first step, Bond Detoxing Mist, offers 31 per cent colour equalisation, 49 per cent iron removal and 20 per cent copper removal, which is a game changer to assist with evenness and longevity of colour. Colourists experience daily barriers to achieving healthy hair and great colour. This includes weakened hair and damage caused by chemical services, thermal styling, mechanical styling and environmental damage, causing porosity inconsistency, broken bonds and compromised elasticity. In addition, a buildup of metals in the hair can react with colour and lightener and cause the oxidation of colour results. Using each step of the muk Treat plus + Bond Restore System will penetrate the cortex and repair bonds, protecting and preventing hair fibre damage, resulting in healthy hair for the long term.

The hero technology component, QuatProRiceA Peptide Complex, comprises Hydrolyzed Rice Protein (Peptides) – a plant derived protein that delivers amino acids to each hair strand while helping to increase the appearance of hair volume and strengthen strands. Then, Sodium PCA is a naturally occurring humectant, which is hydrating and moisturising. Arginine assists to regenerate strength and encourage hair health while nourishing and strengthening from within. Proline is essential for collagen and keratin production, which improves hair strength and condition. Lastly, QPC restores the molecular interactions and stabilises the disulfide bonds, in addition to penetrating

into the cortex of the hair strand to reform damage.

As a salon business, hairdressers can ensure hydrated, conditioned, soft and shiny results, even long after the service. The products can be used as a three-step system or individually in salon, while the take home Bond Restoring Mask enables the client to continue their healthy hair journey at home. Not only this, but the range offers maximum impact and flexible application, with the system working in conjunction with all hair types and existing product ranges, ultimately boosting overall service quality and cohesion. This means you can also add potential for increased client spend and upselling with proven, professional tools.

“The Bond Restore System Pro was remarkably quick and simple to use as an in-salon service. As a colourist, I value the confidence the range gives me when working with colour,” shared Margaret Box of Y Salon in Victoria. “When the Bond Restore System Pro was used in my client’s hair, I immediately noticed the difference – hair was easier to smooth and blow dry, there was less frizz and the clients couldn’t believe how amazing their hair felt.”

“It’s a great addition to the colour service in our business,” added Dan Lepore of The Palladeum in South Australia. “It’s simple, easy to use and integrates into our colour services seamlessly, leaving the hair feeling amazing which is what we want as hairdressers and what our clients want when they leave our salon.”

For more information visit www.mukhair.com

the day a fter

A

lived-in brief that celebrates rather than re-styles hair from the night before, we embrace form that carries the echoes of a night well-lived and the art of the individual.

Looking at ‘night before’ style not as a limitation but an opportunity to create impact and a new energy that’s unique to each model, The Day After reflects what’s happening right now – raw yet sharp and built on the subcultures that make us tick. Join street style extraordinaire from London Tom Warr as he takes us on a journey from the 70s to today.

Hair: Tom Warr for CPR Hair

Make up: Kristyan Low

Photography: Milos Mlynarik

Styling: StylebySharpy (Liv Tassanyi)

Creative: Cameron Pine

Stylist’s own top, Uniqlo knit vest, Zara stripe top

This Page: Zara lace corset, stylist's own choker

Opposite: Zara faux fur coat and lace camisole

This Page: Zara top, Uniqlo trousers

Opposite: Zara skirt worn as dress, Bydee necklaces

This Page: Zara knit

Opposite: Uniqlo jacket, Zara Diamante top, stylist's own earrings

TOM WARR X CPR

Global Creator Director of Blue Tit London Salon, Tom Warr shared his session secrets intertwined within his unique style that merges androgyny, artistic flair and London street style by the bucket load. From education to a session series that captures his laid-back approach to hair, we shared these captivating hair moments alongside his brand of choice in Australia, CPR hair.

WHAT DID YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE SHOOT CONCEPT?

What I love most about this kind of hair is that it has a raw attitude whilst still being quite refined and stylist.

WHAT WERE YOUR GO-TO CPR PRODUCTS ON THE SHOOT?

CPR’s Hydra Curl Leave-In Moisturiser, Texture Dust, The Styling Glue – all helped with the lived in texture and hold.

HOW DOES THE EDITORIAL WORK ON THE SHOOT REFLECT YOUR STYLE OF HAIR IN-SALON?

When I’m working on my clients in salon, I really like the undone, natural finishing, which is definitely represented in my looks from the shoot. I don’t like to over-style or over work the hair.

HOW DO YOU EVOLVE YOUR WORK TO THE NEEDS OF CURRENT TRENDS?

I’ll take a trend and then put my spin on it but always try to flatter the person.

WHAT IS ONE YOUR PROUDEST HAIR MOMENTS TO DATE?

The tour around Australia showcasing my way of cutting and style is my career highlight so far. I feel so blessed to have seen so many great parts of Australia and meet so many more of you.

WHERE DO YOU LOOK FOR INSPIRATION FOR MEN’S STYLE?

I love to look back at old archive pictures of punks and musicians from the 70s – sharp, short and rebellious with pops of colour too.

WHO IN THE MEN’S BARBERING AND HAIRDRESSING GENERALLY INSPIRES YOU?

Gary Gill, Guido Palau.

IF YOU COULD PICK JUST ONE CPR PRODUCT TO USE DAILY WHAT WOULD IT BE?

I use The Styling Glue daily.

WHAT MOTIVATES YOU TO DO WHAT YOU DO EACH DAY?

To learn and better myself and inspire as many people as I can. You have to show up and work on that purpose every day.

WHAT DID YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY TO STYLE FOR EDITORIAL COMPARED TO SALON WORK?

I love the freedom in creating exactly what you want to create rather than the client needs, while still working with suitability over trend.

WHAT DID YOU TAKE AWAY FROM THE SHOOT DAY AND YOUR TIME ON THE ROAD IN AUSTRALIA?

To trust in my style and taste and that what I’m doing really is appreciated.

UNIQUE AND REBELLIOUS

DESTINATION EVO

Evo’s latest campaign is a nostalgic, 70s style look at self-expression and belonging, taking you back in time and to “where good hair feels like home”.

Discover Destination Evo, the latest campaign from Evo that captures a retro style and a sense of home and wild abandonment in equal measures, through introducing seven characters who embody this style and these values.

“Destination Evo captures a feeling rich in nostalgia, where anything is possible, self-expression has no limits and there’s a sense of belonging no matter where you’ve come from,” the brand shared. “At the heart of the campaign are characters, each with a distinct sense of self and individuality. From the not so humble guest with unapologetic confidence, to the untamed spirit with fearless self-expression, through to the icon whose boldness and individuality speak louder than wordseach persona invites you to find a piece of yourself in their story.”

These characters are the The Wanderer, The Untamed, The Upper Crust, The Not So Humble Guest, The One You Want To Be, The Icon and The Life And Soul, each evoking the essence of individuality and artistic spirit in their various ways.

Wild texture, pastel hues from blue, to pink and green, sometimes in one look, beach blondes and nostalgic style sit against 70s era backdrops, in old cars and apartment furnishings, and are complemented by vintage-style fashion, bold prints, old school workout clothes and sun-kissed beauty.

“Featuring polished updos, shaggy mullets, effortless styling, enviable naturals, and bold colourways, the campaign showcases the diversity of the limitless portfolio of colour, care, and styling products with Evo,” the campaign explained.

The campaign is not just a collection of looks but a creative education program designed to elevate the skills of salon professionals. The program offers a series of courses that focus on advanced techniques in styling, cutting, and colouring. These courses aim to inspire stylists and provide them with the tools and knowledge to create innovative and personalised looks for their clients.

For Creative Styling, the program focuses on waves, texture, braiding, ponytails, knots and hair accessories. In cutting, hairdressers learn layering and graduation, texturisation, directional cutting and adaptation for curl patterns. In colour, the program teaches modern lightening techniques, pigment layering, sectioning patterns and artistic paint techniques. These detailed and directional courses are part of Evo’s commitment to providing salon professionals with the education and tools needed to stay ahead in the ever-evolving industry.

The brand invites you to join them where it is “truly at home” with Destination Evo. Head back in time and to your roots with this new campaign.

For more information visit www.haircaregroup.com.au

TUBING

The all new Matthew James EternaTek Hybrid Colouring Crème, thanks to glamaCo, puts versatile hues and bold technology into a generous 180 millilitre tube, upping the size for unprecedented colour opportunities and unparalleled value.

Welcome the Matthew James EternaTek Hybrid Colouring Crème, distributed by glamaCo, with a unique 180 millilitre tube as a point of difference, packing more colour than ever to increase your artistic opportunities. This tube is three times larger than the industry standard for exceptional value.

The Hybrid Colouring Creme offers flexible coverage options, in a formula that’s anchored by EternaTek as a hero component. This component works to deliver superior uniformity of colour from root to tip, brilliance, shimmering reflects and superior coverage on grey hair. It also dually prioritises and respects hair health and hair integrity and reduces colour fading by up to 15 per cent, as based on laboratory spectrophotometer test comparisons.

Hairdressers can shift between demi permanent capabilities, permanent hues, superlift and toning by adjusting these measurements.”

The hybrid formula offers both demi and permanent colour capabilities by simply adjusting the peroxide, meaning hairdressers can be assured customisable coverage and versatility for a range of salon guests, needs and looks. Hairdressers can shift between demi permanent capabilities, permanent hues, superlift and toning by adjusting these measurements.

The exclusively professional product is proudly made in Italy and was recently launched in 2024, and offers 43 shades in the range.

Expand your colour bar in more ways than one, with the Matthew James EternaTek Hybrid Colouring Crème.

For more information visit www.glamaco.com

NEW PARLUX IN 2025

New product launches around the world and a new partnership with Jaye Edwards as the official Australian Parlux Ambassador have made 2025 a big year for Parlux, at home and abroad.

Parlux has unveiled its latest launches and team announcements, with Jaye Edwards spearheading his new role as the brand’s official Australian Parlux Ambassador and the unveiling of the Parlux Elysium Hair Dryer, Parlux Setra Straightener and Parlux Evolis Curling Iron at Cosmoprof Bologna, Italy, in March, alongside the debut of the Parlux Ethos Hair Dryer and the Parlux Alyon Lilac Hair Dryer rounding out the year.

Jaye Edwards is the founder of EdwardsAndCo, and is a salon pioneer, social media sensation and renowned educator who has changed the very landscape of the Australian hair industry. In this role, Jaye shares his brand insights, tips and tricks and how Parlux has transformed his business on social media, connecting the brand and its new tools to hairdressers around the world.

“The Parlux Hair Dryer is quiet and lightweight but still very powerful. It creates a shiny, glossy finish, and has settings that set it apart from other hair dryers on the market, I love the option to lock the settings on the new Ethos Dryer,” he shared.

Jaye will showcase the brand’s various new launches. The Parlux Elysium Hair Dryer revealed at Cosmoprof 2025 is a revolutionary, compact, salon-grade tool making waves for its big performance in a small design. The tool boasts 2,300 watts of power, alongside three airflow levels and three heat settings in nine total combinations. The dryer also memorises its last-used settings and has a digital mini-motor that offers the fast drying, smooth finishes and long-lasting results of full-size models in this lighter build.

The Elysium Hair Dryer is also made with a Special Twisting Cable (STC) for maximum flexibility, as well as a washable, replaceable sponge filter for cleanliness and efficiency, two new AirFusion nozzles in Standard and Slim, as well as a MagicCompact Diffuser. Launching in Australia later this year, it will be available in seven colours for versatile style. The brand returned to its Italian roots at Cosmoprof, Bologna, giving attendees the first opportunity to experience the tool’s portable, professional and power capabilities.

Additionally, Parlux Australia’s latest launch, the Parlux Ethos Hair Dryer, combines a classic design and digital innovation for reliable performance in a light and sturdy tool. Also boasting a digital motor, which marks a departure from the previous DigitAlyon model, and the flexible STC, the tool exclusively has a unique texture that’s especially pleasant to touch. Features such as triple insulation and air chambers keep the front of the hair dryer cooler so hairdressers have total freedom of use. It also has nine speed and temperature combinations and is designed with a small diameter and classic handle for ergonomic styling. Air Ionizer Tech Technology and the Hair Free System for catching hair to keep the dryer clean round out the tool, which is available in Matte White, Fuchsia, Lilac, Galaxy Blue, Copper, Titanium, and Black.

Finally, the Parlux Alyon Air Ionizer Tech Hair Dryer has been revealed in Lovely Lilac, merging light, fast, smooth, shiny and powerful styling with a dreamy, pastel design. A K-Advance Plus motor delivers 2,250 watts of potent power and a concentrated airflow of 84 m³/h for ultra-fast drying times, all in a lifespan of 3,000 hours and weighing just 456 grams. Air Ionizer Tech for shiny, sleek, soft hair thanks to the combination of ceramic and negative ion charge, while the Parlux MagicSense Diffuser is the ideal attachment to enhance natural curls while reducing frizz.

With Italian innovations backed by 45 years of expertise, Parlux is hurtling through 2025 with powerful, lightweight, beautifully designed tools and big names on board.

For more information visit www.datelineimports.com.au and parlux.com.au

Jaye Edwards

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1 YOUR GUIDE TO 29 – 30 JUNE 2025 ICC SYDNEY

FREE Festival HUB Education Sessions

REALtalk Business Forum Competitions Wonderland

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1 MASSIVE DAYS UNMISSABLE EVENT PARTY OF THE YEAR: WONDERLAND 9 COMPETITIONS

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HEAR FROM OUR REALtalk SPEAKERS

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WELCOME.

Welcome to the industry’s biggest hair weekend!

Yes, we’ve said it. Hair Festival is the biggest education event in the industry and the most dynamic we’ve ever had – more than 125 stands and brands ready for you to experience all in one place as the biggest celebration of hair. We are so humbled by the support that’s been given to forge new innovation, education and inspiration across all levels and make it more accessible for the industry in its fourth consecutive year.

With so much choice in our industry and numerous stand-alone events it’s easy to become overstimulated and irreverent when it comes to the demands on us in 2025. We couldn’t have done this without our exhibitors and sponsors working with us and creating custom executions and that Hair Festival energy we know you will love – without this mindset and selfless attitude Hair Festival would certainly not exist.

If you’re a stylist, barber, colourist, salon owner, educator, business coach, entrepreneur or just one of the many visionaries who help make up our industry and such a large event like Hair Festival, your presence means the world to us. This event isn’t just about sharing ideas—it’s about building connections, sparking change, and celebrating the power of education to transform our industry’s future. It’s dependent on dumping out the ego for a new approach to allowing education accessible to all and doing things differently to grow and evolve, amidst surmounting challenges.

In a world that moves fast and forgets even faster, this is really your last chance not to miss something or someone you’ve always wished to see or catch up with, and by registering for your FREE Festival HUB entry you have chosen to pause, show up, and invest in learning.

With the cost of everything and not just living continuing to be a matter of contention, we strongly stand by the fact that Hair

Festival brings hairdressers and barbers an economical way to see international and home grown education for a low ticket price.

With the ALL Access Pass representing the best value for everything, at the price point many education events charge for just one show or class, we are excited to bring you even more options this year from colour, to styling, men’s barbering and to retail and right down to the most exciting live competitions in our industry that are accessible to everyone.

If you’re a business owner and don’t have a ticket to REALtalk Business Forum, now is your last chance, with limited spots and some of the best speakers on brand that will show you how to elevate your messaging while using AI to make it easier than ever before – we are sure you will find a new motivation for leadership from our interactive panel-fuelled program. One of Untangld’s founders, James Needham, will help you unravel your salon brand message and content, while some of our industry’s biggest leaders are so excited to sit with you.

Again, thank you—for your time, your curiosity, and your commitment to learning. Let’s make this year unforgettable!

Cameron Pine, Editorial and Creative Director

Renita Collins, Events and Marketing Director

WHAT'S ON. LEARN. SHOP.

Welcome to the Festival HUB - the heart and soul of Hair Festival 2025. This two-day exhibition showcases a collection of your favourite brands. From the big game players to new up and comers. Discover the latest industry innovations, learn and be inspired by live demonstrations, discuss business at the dedicated Business HUB and network and recharge at one of the networking and coffee spots. Connect and unite like never before.

Registration is FREE and includes the Hair Festival Bag with some exciting supplier offerings.

Get ready for a never ending education experience at Hair Festival 2025. With 13 international and 30 homegrown industry renowned educators, supported by beloved brands, sharing knowledge, expertise and insights is the basis of education at Hair Festival at diverse and inspiring Education Sessions. If you’re keen to improve your knowledge on branding, the REALtalk Business Forum at Hair Festival 2025 will focus on building a resilient brand in every aspect of your business. From branding your salon to building your own personal brand, brand recognition is what sets you apart. With a team of experienced branding experts, you will gain insights, ideas, inspiration and be guided on how to improve your brand image across every step of your salon’s communication.

CONNECT. COMPETE.

Will you be crowned the 2025 Hair Festival Champion? Get ready to show off your skills and gain industry-wide recognition at the live Hair Festival Competitions sponsored by O&M. Hairdressers across men’s hair, women’s styling and emerging talent will be named as Hair Festival Champions, while you can compete in editorial, bridal, colour and beyond. With four LIVE cutting competitions and five pre-done competitions there is a competition for everyone. Compete for your shot at prize money, trophies, editorial recognition and beyond. See you on the competition floor.

Your mystical Wonderland is back for a night that celebrates power, mystery, and the art of the individual. Be enthralled in a night of mystique at the hairdressing industry’s biggest party. Immersive brand experiences, photo opportunities, multiple bars with free drinks and a fantasy of food options, plus a DJ and live band, there’s no other party in the industry like Wonderland. Join us for this unforgettable night of gold, glamour and a touch of Mystique where Wonderland lives up to its name as the only way to celebrate the Hair Festival weekend.

WHERE IS IT?

Sunday 29 June 2025 | 9:00am - 5:00pm

Monday 30 June 2025 | 10:00am - 4:00pm

ICC Sydney - Hall 1 14 Darling Drive, Sydney SWS 2000 Festival HUB,

ICC Sydney is the home to Hair Festival 2025 set against the stunning backdrop of Darling Harbour.

SHOP.

Festival HUB

Sunday 29 June 2025 | 9:00am - 5:00pm

Monday 30 June 2025 | 10:00am - 4:00pm

Location: Hall 1, Level 2.

The hottest brands, trends and styles are all under one roof at the Festival HUB. Your source of what’s new in the industry. Engage with leading brands, purchase the latest industry innovations, learn and be inspired by live demonstrations and stage shows.

Registration is FREE and includes a Hair Festival Bag with some exciting supplier offerings.

NEW IN 2025: NEW BRANDS, TWO STAGES - THE STAGE. & BUSINESS CONNECT

Both stages bring you FREE Education from brands in the Festival HUB. Bite-sized education, live demonstrations and model showcases from the Education Sessions will be the focus on THE STAGE. BUSINESS CONNECT hosts more intimate presentations of not only business but brand demonstrations as well. SHOP The HUB and keep going back to the stages for more.

BARBER HUB

Presented by Sonder Academy and Blak Haircare, the new location for the Barber HUB near the kiosk showcases the best in barber education to inspire existing and future barbers and hairdressers.

BUSINESS HUB

Register now!

Visit the Business HUB where you will be welcomed by brands showcasing new innovations, business advice, marketing and much more.

THE HUB BY INSTYLE & STYLEICONS

Centrally located, this will be your connection point in the Festival HUB. Ideal for coffee, snacks, recharging, meetings and catching up on all things hair. Subscribe to INSTYLE and purchase inspiring business books.

SHOP.

ACANLUX – Stand 39

ACANLUX is a natural beauty company that creates skincare and haircare products using botanical ingredients like Sea Holly and White Cypress. With a commitment to using organic and sustainable practices, their current product line includes serums and shampoos that are effective yet gentle formulas. Exciting new products are under development.

Ace Sharpening – Stand 72

Ace Sharpening is a trusted supplier of premium hairdressing scissors, offering a wide range of high-quality tools for professional stylists. With Japan’s renowned brands, such as Mork Scissors, Ace Sharpening have a carefully curated selection that caters to various cutting styles and preferences. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Ace Sharpening should be your go-to source for the finest hairdressing scissors and expert sharpening services.

Alfaparf Milano Professional – Stand 57

Alfaparf Milano Professional a leading Italian professional haircare brand, dedicated to supporting hair professionals with innovative products, services, and advanced training. Rooted in Italian dynamism, innovation, and openness to diversity, they collaborate closely with professionals to simplify their work and make hair creation a source of joy. Alfaparf Milano Professional fosters a global community and is always looking towards the future.

Aloxxi – Stand 55

Aloxxi Hair has officially arrived in Australia! As a community of passionate hair enthusiasts, Aloxxi are committed to delivering first-class products, boutique experiences, and colourful innovation. The LUMINEXX™ Permanent Gel Cream Hair Color features skincare grade ingredients that help protect the scalp, prevent staining, and create the optimal environment for hair health. Powered by Surface Intelligence Technology, LUMINEXX™ offers vibrant, long-lasting colour with superior grey coverage and brilliant shine. With a 1:2 mixing ratio, it’s one of the most cost-effective choices. With every six tubes ordered, you’ll receive a free developer for life!

AMAX Professional – Stand 153

For 35 years, Amax Professional has been a pioneer in the hair equipment industry, specialising in high-quality salon tools including hair cutting scissors, manicure, and pedicure equipment. With a strong reputation for excellence and innovation, they provide excellence in hair tools to meet the needs of professionals worldwide.

Ana Hair Care – Stand 40

Ana Hair Care is a family business that developed a new advanced technology in Nano Keratin without formaldehyde for Australia. With a degree in chemistry and cosmetics, Ana’s formula transforms hair from the inside out, providing straightening for all types, as ideal for any salon.

Artègo – Stand 35

For over 25 years, Artègo has been a trusted partner to thousands of hairdressers across the globe. Born in the heart of Italy, their roots run deep, nurtured by a diverse collective of professionals in the hair and barber industry. From humble beginnings, expansion is now global. Artègo has joined forces with Hair Nature Group, which has over 10 years of award-winning triumphs.

BB SLEEK – Stand 96

BB SLEEK is more than just another haircare brand - it’s innovators, game-changers, and advocates for sleek, healthy hair every day. With products meticulously crafted to address specific hair concerns, each hair strand is infused with the nourishment it needs to thrive. Say goodbye to dull, lifeless hair and hello to smooth, healthy, and shiny locks with BB SLEEK.

Bravo Barber Supply X MRD Pro – Stand 101

Bravo Barber Supply was built by barbers, for barbers. With years of industry experience, the brand understand the demands of modern barbers and their need for high-performance tools. MRD Pro Clippers is an exclusive line of professional-grade clippers that deliver unmatched precision, power, and durability. Designed for superior performance, MRD Pro Clippers set the standard in cutting-edge grooming technology.

BKT Beauty – Stand 36

BKT Nanoplasty is a revolutionary straightening and frizz reduction product that is suitable for all hair types. Whilst prioritising sustainability, BKT Nanoplasty supports salon success and nurturing client relationships. Their range includes after care formulations that are customisable, user friendly, vegan, crueltyfree, formaldehyde-free and suitable for all hair types.

Caflon – Stand 56

Caflon is a globally trusted professional ear-piercing system, used in over 60 countries and exclusively distributed in Australia and New Zealand by Artav Australia. Committed to maintaining the highest hygiene standards, each earring is made from hypoallergenic materials and pre-sterilised before packaging to ensure maximum cleanliness and minimise the risk of infection. With a wide range of high-quality styles in 24ct gold plate, silver plate, and titanium, professionalism meets peace of mind.

Canamo – Stand 109

Canamo sets a new standard in anti-aging haircare, combining naturally derived ingredients with clinical insights to nourish, protect, and strengthen hair over time. Designed with the same care and intention as skincare, Canamo focuses on hair health from the root, restoring softness, elasticity, and vitality. Professional-grade products like the Enrich Hair Growth Spray, Complete Shampoo, and Repair Leave-in Mask help maintain youthful, resilient, and radiant hair through every stage of life.

Cloud Nine – Stand 155

The kinder we are to our hair, the stronger it becomes. Cloud Nine’s styling tools adapt to the hair’s specific needs to promote strength, glossiness and long-lasting health. Featuring irons with 11 heat settings and pressure-reducing Revive Mode®, Cloud Nine puts your clients’ hair type, style and needs first.

Community Hair Project – Stand 21

Since 2017, the Community Hair Project have offered 90,000 complimentary haircuts to their homeless friends, women, and children residing in DV refuges, drug and alcohol clinics, and financially struggling families. Alongside the haircut, they provide a toiletry pack, hugs and encouragement. They facilitate the unique Indigenous Hair Workshop, where they teach the fundamentals of hairdressing over a five day workshop in remote and regional Indigenous communities and will start Cert 3 in Hairdressing and Barbering in the second semester of 2025.

Crown Brush Australia – Stand 52

With over 40 years of brush making tradition Crown Brush Australia offers you the largest range of professional makeup brushes with over 700 different styles. Crown Brush Australia is a leader within the professional make up industry and offer several different products from Pro Brushes, Makeup Palettes, Student Kits and a wide range of cosmetic items. They work with many high-profile makeup artists throughout the world.

Dateline Imports – Stand 41 & 45

The future of hair. Dateline Imports presents industry pioneers BaBylissPRO, Silver Bullet and Malibu C. BaBylissPRO is driven by innovation with award-winning, cutting-edge and high-performance technology to satisfy the creative needs of professionals. Silver Bullet crafts tools that professionals know, love and trust. Proudly Australian-owned with over 30 years of hair industry experience for faster, better styling. Malibu C leads the market in 100 per cent vegan, clean, customised haircare remedies. Solve hair and scalp problems with the best of both science and nature.

Dyson – Stand 123

Dyson is a leading technology company renowned for its innovative engineering in household and personal care products Dyson has revolutionised the hair industry with high-performance tools like the Supersonic™ hair dryer, the Airwrap™ multi-styler, and the Corrale™ straightener. These devices harness advanced digital motors, Air Multiplier™ technology, and intelligent heat control to deliver fast, precise styling with minimal heat damage.

Eco Salon Supplies, Oway and SOPHIC – Stand 32

Eco Salon Supplies is dedicated to bringing the most forward-thinking, sustainability-driven brands to the professional hair industry. Unveiling a stand like no other—a fully sustainable exhibit designed as a complete activation that redefines what an eco-conscious industry can look like. Showcasing two brands with shared values but distinct identities—Oway and SOPHIC, this is more than just a display; it’s an experience that challenges the industry to think bigger, greener, and bolder.

Eekoloks Haircare Australia – Stand 111

eekoloks® Haircare Australia is revolutionising the professional hair care industry with its Australian-made, award-winning product range designed specifically for children. Crafted for use in salons and barbershops, these products are tailored to meet the unique needs of young clients. eekoloks® prides itself on a commitment to natural, eco-friendly practices, employing ingredients free from parabens, phthalates and sulfates, with no animal testing. All products are gluten and dairy-free and include formulations to defend against head lice.

Evalyn Parsons – Stand 46

Evalyn Parsons is CEO of five brands under the Evalyn Parsons Group. Her businesses, Evalyn Parsons Hair and Evalyn Parsons Weddings, have thrived for over 20 years on the Sunshine Coast. Evalyn is a nine-time winner of the ABIA Wedding Awards category and is currently Australia’s current No#1 Wedding Stylist five times consecutively. She most recently became the sole Australian distributor of prestigious L’Image Mannequin Heads and this year launches Evalyn Parsons Education

Excellent Edges – Stand 93

With 35 years of experience, Excellent Edges looms as “Australia’s biggest, best and funniest producers of hairdressing scissors and cutting accessories”. Make sure you come say hi to the team on their stand and check out all the tools on offer, or just pop in for a drink and check out the artists doing live demos over the festival.

EXO-GROW by Dermapenworld – Stand 116

Discover the EXO-GROW™ Collection by DermapenWorld™ that offers your clients a unique, results-driven treatment experience, specially formulated to target hair loss, thinning hair, and scalp health. EXO-GROW is more than a product line—it’s a clinically advanced in-salon treatment and home care range that combines cutting-edge science with restorative self-care. Visit stand 116, meet the team, interact to gain some goodies, and learn the advantages of introducing EXO-GROW™ to your salon.

Floractive Sydney – Stand 71

Floractive specialises in providing nanoplasty solutions with their hero product Wone, which has gained recognition as the leading nanoplasty solution globally. Learn about the renowned Wone solution through their team of expert technicians, who will be on hand to explain the entire application process. Distributed across Australia, there are multiple sales points for easy access to this amazing product.

Foils by Jessica Sain – Stand 65

Launched in 2020, hairdresser and salon owner Jessica Sain created a pop-up hairdressing foil business, manufacturing and wholesaling premium and environmentally friendly pop-up foils. Founded due to limited suppliers, Jessica also discovered that existing foils were shipped to the east coast before being distributed across Australia—adding unnecessary costs. Now shipped directly to both the east and west coasts, this ensures faster and more efficient delivery.

Foxy Blondes – Stand 103

Foxy Blondes has been redefining the hairstyling experience with high-quality, stylish, and reliable foils. Designed by hairdressers, for hairdressers, their products balance functionality and creativity, helping stylists work efficiently while expressing their artistry. From vibrant designs to salon essentials, Foxy Blondes prioritise durability, affordability, and sustainability. Rooted in Australia and embraced worldwide, their community-driven brand thrives on innovation and collaboration; whether you’re working in a bustling salon or a cosy home studio.

Fresha – Stand 97

Fresha is the world’s leading software for hair, beauty, and wellness, trusted by over 120,000 businesses globally. Their all-in-one platform combines seamless booking, integrated payments, and a vibrant marketplace, connecting clients with top salons and spas in their city. Effortless, powerful, and built for growth—Fresha transforms the way businesses thrive.

Gamma+ – Stand 75

Gamma+, an Italian brand of salon quality hair appliances, provides all professionals with the tools they need to ensure their clients’ satisfaction, with trending clippers, trimmers, shavers, dryers and straighteners for barbers and hairdressers. Gamma+ will also have a Spin Pod for you to take videos on, so make sure you come along and share the fun.

SHOP.

Global Scissors – Stand 95

Global Scissors was born 10 years ago after the owner, a barber and member of the hairdressing community for over 30 years, recognised that scissors are one of the most important tools in a stylist’s toolbox. Global Scissors’ passion is to manufacture the best quality and affordable professional hairdressing and barber scissors from the highest quality Japanese metals.

Gold Hair Connection – Stand 117

Australia’s largest hair topper retailer, Gold Har Collection’s crown clip-in hair extension pieces return to Hair Festival with their range of more than 30 different colours, which can also be coloured and styled for any salon client. Simply clip over your client’s crown eliminating regrowth, adding volume or fresh colour or escaping another hair wash day!

Hair Aid – Stand 23

Hair Aid empowers underserved communities through two core initiatives. Hair Aid International Projects: trains individuals in developing countries in basic hair-cutting skills, enabling them to start micro-businesses and improve their living conditions. Hair Aid Community Cuts: coordinates Australian volunteer hairdressers to provide free haircuts to the homeless and vulnerable in parks, churches, and shelters.

Hair and Beauty Kingdom – Stand 127

As an Australian family-owned and operated business, Hair and Beauty Kingdom provides affordable, high-quality hair, beauty and barbering products coupled with a touch of old-school customer service. Their mission is clear and compelling: leverage their experience to provide superior quality products to the hair and beauty industry and to lead the charge in setting the benchmark for fantastic customer service.

Haircare Group – Stand 47 & 50

Haircare Group, the home of professional hair, are back again. Discover exciting new brands across care, styling, hot tools, and ingestible beauty, plus shop their leading iconic brands all in one vibrant space. Join the action with exclusive giveaways, including Knock for Stock (everyone wins) plus your chance to win a full Kaleo kit valued at $1,200. The energy continues at their on-stand stage, with live demos and insider tips from industry icons like Bel Mills, Natalie Anne, Kaine Vakai, and more. Whether you’re looking to be inspired, win big, or explore new trends, don’t miss this activation.

HairCo. – Stand 92

HairCo. Australia is a family-run wholesaler founded by Tony and Connie Alessi in 2005 and now headed up by their sons. Serving the hairdressing, barbering, and beauty trade for over 15 years, the team has over 50 years of collective experience, offering innovation, exclusive brands, and exceptional service. Providing seamless shopping with over 10,000 products, same-day dispatch and click and collect options, HairCo. pride themselves on a legacy of quality and customer commitment.

Hairtalk – Stand 64

Founded in 1985 and available in over 40 countries, Hairtalk revolutionised how hair extensions were applied and worn, with the tape-in extension. In 2005, the introduction of the Hairtalk Adhesive System created faster, affordable and non-damaging extensions that can be safely applied and removed. Adding volume, length and colour, salon professionals have creative freedom with this high-quality and innovative products range.

Heiniger X VITAMAN plus SMASH IT & SHAKE IT – Stand 122

As a quality-orientated professional, you understand the importance of outstanding cutting results. Heiniger’s precise, powerful, and quiet machines are not only efficient, reducing haircut time, but also deliver a more comfortable experience for both you and your clients. Global leaders in men’s skin and hair care since 1999, VITAMAN is a range of natural grooming essentials made in Australia, which help barbers and hairdressers to empower men to look and feel great. Meet SMASH IT and the new launch SHAKE IT! There are no other products like these two.

Joiken – Stand 58

Joiken are showcasing the latest in Head Spa salon equipment. From the advanced THE ONE salon chair and basin to Head Spa chairs, steamers, scalp therapy systems, and ergonomic setups, this presents a new opportunity to elevate your salon. Whether you’re upgrading your current space or exploring the Head Spa trend for the first time, our expert team will guide you through the latest solutions tailored for today’s modern salons.

K18 by OzDare – Stand 68

Using the power of nature and human biology, K18 unlocks new solutions to challenges in haircare – while delivering a healthy canvas for hair expression. K18 creates purposeful products that are simple, effective and biocompatible. At the K18 stand, you’ll find the full K18 range, including K18 AirWash™ and K18 AstroLift™. Discover the benefits that K18REPAIR™ can deliver to your clients and your salon, get involved with live demonstrations and register for a K18 Education Session.

Kalugahair – Stand 99

For the past 15 years Kalugahair has been perfecting the art of hair extensions. With a focus on quality and purity, hair is sourced from single donors, ensuring each strand meets the highest standards. A commitment to craftsmanship allows them to offer products that are as natural as your clients’ own hair.

KYK Hair Care – Stand 98

Multi award-winning innovators in luxury hair solutions, KYK Hair Care designs are for all hair types, crafting transformative and professional-grade products trusted by celebrities and stylists globally. Founded by a renowned celebrity hairstylist, KYK merges extensive research and development with premium ingredients to deliver nourished hair, lasting volume and effortless style.

Lavish Cosmetics – Stand 11

Lavish Cosmetics is redefining beauty with innovative, chemical-free products designed for effortless daily routines. Enhancing natural beauty through high-performance formulas that nourish, strengthen, and elevate your clients’ self-care experience. From perfecting brows, boosting lash growth, or achieving instantly fuller hair, Lavish Cosmetics provides easy-to-use solutions for a luminous, confident look. Beauty should be effortless—and with Lavish, it is.

Look Good Feel Better – Stand 12

Look Good Feel Better is a free national cancer support program that launched Style for Cancer; a new initiative created as a direct request from style, beauty, and grooming professionals. The initiative will raise vital funds for the charity whilst educating and providing the industry with knowledge and resources, empowering them to confidently support their clients as they navigate cancer diagnosis and treatment.

Manda by BLC Cosmetics – Stand 91

Meet Cecilie Maria Torvik, the founder of Manda of Scandinavia who has two decades of experience in the hair care industry, Cecilie crafted Manda to deliver nourishing rituals for those pursuing healthy, strong hair. Explore Manda’s impressive range of bathroom rituals and take advantage of exclusive event promotions and special offers. For expert advice connect with their team for personalised recommendations to enhance your salon’s offerings.

Matsui Hair – Stand 29

With over 20 years in the industry, Matsui delivers premium scissors, foils, and clippers known for their precision, durability, and performance. Glampalm leads the way in heat styling with innovative tools designed to protect the integrity of the hair while delivering beautiful results. Matsui offers a complete toolkit for stylists who care about quality and craft. Visit stand 29 to experience the difference, see live demos, and take advantage of exclusive expo offers.

Mayo International – Stand 76

For over 40 years, Mayo International, an Australian made, owned and operated product manufacturer, has revolutionised hair care with innovation and passion plus prioritising professionals with premium products that elevate artistry. GENETIX is a naturally derived, vegan-friendly hair care and styling collection that combines science and style to deliver high-performance results. Trusted by industry experts, the GENETIX clean, effective formulas promote hair health, strength, and vitality while championing sustainability.

Microtexx – Stand 106

Microtexx is a personalised Australian-owned and made family haircare brand, designed to be an alternative solution to mass produced hair care ranges. With concentrated ingredients for longevity of use, your salon clients will enjoy and just like skin, their hair needs some love too!

milk_shake – Stand 60

Making their Hair Festival debut, milk_shake will launch their new styling line, Lifestyling, and have the milk_shake global education team to showcase the performance and diversity of the milk_shake professional portfolio. Headlining their education is milk_shake Global Ambassador and British Hairdressing Hall of Fame recipient; Andrew Smith.

Nano Kare – Stand 62

Featuring live transformations, the Nano Kare team of expert consultants will showcase their best-selling, formaldehyde-free Nanoplasty, designed to deliver smooth, healthy, frizz-free results. Trusted by salons across Australia, New Zealand, plus the U.S.A, Nano Kare is more than a product , it’s a movement in modern hair care. Discover how to introduce Nanoplasty into your salon, and explore professional Starter Kits, training, and distributor opportunities.

Natural Look X Artav Australia – Stand 38

The Natural Look range is the result of over 65 years of expertise, innovation, and passion created by Arturo Taverna, founder of Artav Australia. Proudly Australian-made, Natural Look products are developed in-house by a team of hair and beauty professionals, using cruelty-free, sustainable practices. With a portfolio of over 1,000 salon-quality products across six trusted brands, Natural Look offers complete solutions tailored to the needs of modern salons that include advanced haircare to essential salon hygiene.

organic SUKU – Stand 63

organic SUKU is reshaping the future of textured hair care by empowering stylists to master their craft while growing their businesses and unlocking new realms of creativity. Through TEXTURE RE.IMAGINED, their artist-led coil and curl education, learn the tools to elevate existing techniques and tailor them to the unique needs of coily, curly, and wavy hair. organic SUKU is dedicated to bold, polished, and versatile looks that align with Australia’s ever-evolving beauty landscape.

Osaka Scissors – Stand 54

For over 40 years, Osaka Scissors has been a leader in the hairdressing scissors industry. Based primarily in France and together with their partner Passion Scissors in the UK, they manufacture and supply hairdressers and barbers with quality scissors across Europe, South America, Japan and now Australia. Combined with a strong focus using quality Japanese steel, Osaka Scissors delivers premium and dependable cutting tools that suit all cutting styles and price points.

Phorest Salon Software – Stand 105

Phorest Salon Software powers over 9,000 hair and beauty salons in the UK, Ireland, Germany, Australia, Finland, the USA and Canada and the platform processes 7 million appointments a month for hair and beauty consumers. Their system touches every point of the salon experience – from the in-salon software appointment calendar and CRM with a fully integrated marketing suite to staff apps to payments and online bookings.

Pinkchic Hair Care – Stand 110

PinkChic Hair Care is an Australian brand founded by Brazilian professionals , a cosmetic chemist and a qualified Australian hairdresser, blending science, salon expertise, and real results. Liss Brazil Nanoplasty, is a safe, one-step straightening system that delivers up to 100 per cent straight hair on all hair types. It’s formaldehyde-free and free from harsh chemicals. Fully compliant with Australian cosmetic regulations (TGA & AICIS), Liss Brazil isn’t just a treatment — it’s the next generation of professional straightening.

Pure Brazilian – Stand 100

Pure Brazilian’s smoothing system is renowned for its exceptional performance and multifaceted benefits. The formula imbues hair with a luminous shine while fortifying the cuticle, resulting in strengthened strands that are resistant to frizz and breakage. Hair health is enhanced from the treatment, which acts as a shield against heat damage from styling tools, preventing split ends and promoting healthy growth. Pure Brazilian offers a comprehensive solution for salon professionals and clients alike.

Professional Use – Stand 2

Professional Use distributes an exclusive range of premium hair care and styling tools. Discover Mizutani Scissors, handcrafted in Japan since 1921, centuries-old craftsmanship with premium materials for purposeful design. Y.S.Park Professional offers brushes, combs, and accessories crafted by hairdressers for hairdressers, using top-tier Japanese craftsmanship. With over 45 years of expertise, Balmain Paris Hair Couture brings catwalkinspired hair to life, blending heritage with innovation.

SHOP.

Rogue Beauty & Maria Nila – Stand 18

Welcome to the world of Maria Nila. Discover a factory pop up as represented globally in activations. Maria Nila’s lounge area, salon space and retail space with experiential opportunities will assist you to understand what it means to be Swedish, B Corp Certified, vegan and a climate compensated brand.

Salon Cosmetics X Color Trak & Danger Jones – Stand 1

Salon Cosmetics is proud to bring two passionate and artistic focused professional hair brands to Australia and Hair Festival! DANGER JONES was founded by David and Alexis Thurston and in under a year has become a haven for artists searching for their very own colour asylum. COLORTRAK offers the largest variety of professional hair tools for equally inspired artists who demand innovative and exciting colour tools to propel their art.

Sarah K Australia – Stand 108

Sarah K was founded over 10 years ago and is dedicated to offering innovative, high-quality hair care products, such as Nanoplasty, a new hair technology, classified as the “New Keratin Generation System” or “New Hair Straightening System”. Developed to straighten and return the hair to become healthy, soft and glossy.

Seamless1 – Stand 34

Seamless1, a respected figure in the hair industry, is recognised for its dedication to innovation and top quality. Founded in Australia and expanding globally, their diverse range includes hair care essentials, extensions, styling tools, bleaching products, and accessories. Embraced by international stylists, Seamless1 are trusted worldwide for their reliability and effectiveness.

Short Back and Sidewalks – Stand 147

Short Back & Sidewalks creates positive connections with people experiencing homelessness and poverty through the power of a free haircut, during monthly haircutting services in Perth, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and regional WA. “We are building a stronger and more inclusive community through our volunteers who are some of Australia’s best hairdressers and barbers. Our goal for 2025 is to give 15,000 haircuts,” the organisation said.

Shortcuts – Stand 74

Shortcuts Salon Software is a premium business management solution for salons, spas, clinics, and barbershops. Recently celebrating their 30th birthday, they have helped thousands of businesses run their salons successfully by simplify appointment scheduling, client management, marketing, stock management, point of sale, and reporting. Features include a touch-screen appointment book, automated SMS confirmations, online booking, online payments and easy reporting tools, all designed to enhance client engagement.

Smartpay – Stand 73

Smartpay has saved Aussie and Kiwi businesses, including salons, millions of dollars by helping them simplify their payment solutions. With Smartpay Zero Cost™ EFTPOS, add a small surcharge to the payment and you’ll save on EFTPOS fees and keep costs low for your customers. Take the hassle out of managing your cash flow with no EFTPOS bill and no more end-of-month admin. Want bill certainty? Simply opt for their Simple Flat Rate solution.

Sonder Academy & Blak Haircare – Barber HUB – Stand 113

Sonder Academy offers one-on-one group training and online education. Their face to face extensive courses includes Clipper

and Scissor Workshops empowering barbers and hairdressers with the confidence they need to upskill. Australian made Blak Haircare was created by long term friends, business partners and men’s hair stylists, Ji Ratnagopal and Samuel Raffaele, owners of Sonders Academy. Sam and Ji felt compelled to create a product brand that catered for all the styling needs they faced everyday inside their salons.

Stellar – Stand 94

Located in the heart of Hair Festival, visit Stellar® and be part of the culture that brings back healthy hair through the latest technology in hair styling tools. See why people are hooked on the Stellar® tools and finally get the answer on how to make your clients’ hair shine again. Stellar® offers free education and tools that have Healing Mineral™ Therapy, are ultra lightweight and use advanced technology.

Superior Hair Extensions – Stand 42

Celebrating their 20th anniversary Superior Hair Extensions are one of the most established brands in hair extension manufacturing. With a multi-million-dollar e-commerce store selling products around the world, their factory-to-consumer model allows for custom-branded hair extensions with no minimum order requirement. They cater to unique salon needs and individual preferences.

Sustainable Salons – Stand 13

Sustainable Salons is a unique social enterprise that specialises in collecting up to 95 per cent of the salon bin and redirecting all material for reuse, recycling and repurposing solutions. The program offers rewards for a salon’s recycling efforts with useful items and savings for the business, while 100 per cent of the recycling proceeds are donated to charitable organisations to help feed those in need.

The G5ive Haircare – Stand 102

Backed by cutting-edge research and a team of haircare experts, The G5ive Haircare brings you innovative and bespoke formulations by harnessing the power of premium ingredients to create transformative products to cater to diverse hair types, textures, and styling preferences. Whether your clients are looking to embrace their curls, achieve sleek, straight strands or add volume and bounce, The G5ive Haircare has a solution crafted for your salon.

THICKIN By Gold Hair Collections – Stand 148

THICKIN hair fibres is a 100 per cent natural hair enhancement breakthrough for men and women providing salon clients with a fuller hair look that lasts all day and night, through wind, rain and sweat. Suitable for covering hair loss and alopecia, thinning hair, regrowth and grey hair, the technology is made of natural fibres from plants. THICKIN is safe even for sensitive scalps and bonds to hair more securely. It comes in ten different colours.

TNS Trading – Stand 61

TNS is proudly an Australian-owned manufacturer of professional hair tools, dedicated to helping the industry achieve the best salon results with ease. With advanced technology, superior performance and user-friendly designs, their experienced and well-trained staff will explain and demonstrate the full range, including their high-performance hair dryer, award-winning automatic curler, the latest technology hot brush, and their brand-new addition, the Super Styler.

SHOP.

Victory Export Import – Stand 24

Victory Export Import is a manufacturing and distribution company with a focus on supplying stain proof capes and aprons for the hair and barber industry. As an export import company, you can order products from around the world and they delivery your order door to door.

Wahl – Stand 33

WAHL is a worldwide brand that was born over 100 years ago in America by Leo Wahl. Leo invented the first electromagnetic clipper and also invented personal massage products that were first used in barber shops in America. The company remains family-owned. Wahl strives to stay innovative and provide the world with quality personal grooming, self-care, pet grooming, and professional barber/stylist products that stand the test of time.

Winamor – Stand 22

Designed by hairdressers, for hairdressers, the Winamor Perfect Pass was born from the real-world struggles of performing keratin treatments in the salon solving the critical issue of accurate pass tracking. Understanding the need for a more innovative and reliable tool, a truly professional hair straightener is designed for the demands of modern hair treatments.

Business HUB Exhibitors

AAAF (Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation) – Stand 132

Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation Inc. (AAAF) was founded in 2010 with the purpose of improving the lives of people living with Alopecia Areata by building awareness to fund research into a cure or treatment for this scalp issue. The AAAF helps reduce financial and emotional stress and enables children, young adults, adults and their support networks to develop their strengths, skills and confidence.

Australian Cancer Research Foundation (ACRF) Brave Shave Booth – BH 139

ACRF’s Brave Shave is a bold fundraising campaign, inspiring Australians to shave, cut, or colour their hair in support of the countless brave Australian who face cancer every day. Calling on hair professionals to become a Brave Shave salon and help back lifesaving cancer research. Support clients navigating cancer, hair changes and loss. Empower clients with a bold shave, fresh cut, or vibrant colour for a cause.

Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) – BH 133

The Australian Hairdressing Council (AHC) supports you with practical tools, guidance, and community in an ever-evolving business landscape. From navigating HR and staffing to staying on top of industry changes. Meet the AHC team, ask questions, share your story, and discover how being part of the AHC can help you grow, manage challenges, feel more connected, and make running your business just that little bit easier.

Cathy Davys Hair Design & Education – BH 135

Cathy Davys Hair Design & Education was established with the sincere intention to support fellow hairdressers. Cathy firmly believes in the significance of a solid foundation as the starting point of any successful work, and just like architecture, hair design requires a strong foundation, otherwise the entire

structure collapses. Recently debuted the Etching Razor, an exceptional instrument that sets a new standard for precision and detail in your hair cuts.

Ethical Brand – BH 140

Clever Curl is Australia’s leading specialised line of hair products carefully formulated to enhance and embrace naturally curly hair. Clever Curl’s aim is to advance the way the professional hair care industry looks at naturally textured hair, promoting inclusivity and diversity across communities. Clever Curl offers an array of professional education classes from introductory to advanced, to help their industry on their journey into expanding your curl knowledge. Educate. Collaborate. Inspire.

Expo4Barbers – BH 137

Expo4Barbers is where the barbering industry comes alive! This high-energy event brings together passionate professionals from across the country for education, creativity, and connection. Expect cutting-edge demos, inspiring education sessions, epic barber battles, and a buzzing expo floor packed with the latest tools, gear, and brands. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, Expo4Barbers is your go-to hub to learn, level up, and link up with the best in the game.

Flagsalon – BH 138

Worried that your salon is emptier than you’d like? Flagsalon specialises in affordable, effective digital marketing tailored just for hair salons. With proven strategies leverage Google and local SEO to make your salon the go-to destination. Visit Flagsalon at Hair Festival 2025 for exclusive show specials and discover how they can help your salon thrive!

Guild Insurance – BH 131

Started in 1963 by Alan A Russell OBE, Guild Insurance is dedicated to protecting the livelihoods of hairdressers Australiawide. Understanding the unique challenges the industry faces, insurance policies are styled specifically with hairdressing professionals and business owners in mind. Coverage evolves with your needs. You’re well protected when it comes to doing what you do best.

Iconic Coaching – BH 134

Iconic Coaching has worked with over two-thousand business owners since its inception in 2017. The brainchild of Caitlyn Muir, Australian entrepreneur, founder and businesswoman for over fifteen years, Iconic Coaching is a mentoring business offering live, online and in-person education, coaching, courses, guides, reads, retreats and leadership services to the emerging or established business owner who is stagnant or stuck.

Vish – BH 136

Designed by salon owners, for salon owners, Vish is the ultimate solution for salons seeking seamless colour management. The revolutionary app, combined with a smart Bluetooth scale, ensures accurate formula tracking, inventory management, and colour profit intelligence. Integrated with top salon software companies, Vish keeps information at your fingertips wherever you are.

LEARN.

REALtalk Business Forum

Sunday 29 June 2025

9:00am - 1:30pm

Location:

Pyrmont Theatre

If you’re keen to improve your knowledge on branding, the REALtalk Business Forum 2025 will focus on building a resilient brand in every aspect of your business. From branding your salon to building your own personal brand, brand recognition is what sets you apart.

Scan to book your tickets.

REALtalk Speakers

8.30am – 9.00am

9.00am – 9.05am

9.05am – 9.50am

Coffee and registration

Welcome by Cameron Pine (emcee)

Redefine Your Brand Story

• James Needham - Co-Founder + Joint Strategy Director | Untangld

9.50am – 10.25am How to Build (and Accelerate) a Personal Brand That Works for You

• Tamara Reid - Founder | Inside Industry

10.25am – 10.55am Panel 1: Successful Salon Branding Insights

• Oscar Cullinan – Founder | Oscar Oscar Salons, WILDE.hair, HMP BT, & BeardDye

• Emily Ciardiello – Chief of Everything Officer and Creative Director | Foil Me

• Ali Holmes – Director and Principal Stylist | Wild Life SOGO

• Mary Alamine - Co-Owner, Creative Director and Educator | Royals Hair

10.55am – 11.10am Morning Tea

11.10am – 11.55am Bringing Brands to Life Within Social Media

• James Fitzgerald - Executive Director of Programming – SMK

11.55am – 12.25pm CPR Hair Branding and The Holistic Salon

• Tabatha Coffey – TV Personality, Global Educator, Salon Coach and Public Figure

• Cas Donnelly – CEO, Creator of CPR Colour | CPR Hair

• Natalie Chadwick – Entrepeneur, Creative Director | CPR Hair

• Nicole Lamers – CPR National Colour Ambassador

12.25pm – 12.55pm Panel 2: Successful Salon Branding Insights

• Tracey Hughes – General Manager | Dermapenworld, EXO-GROW

• Mackenzie Hayward – Founder | The Attaché Line

• Nathan Yazbek – Director | Salon Yazbek

• Nicole Ranatawake - Founder | Salon Purpose

12.55pm – 1.30pm Interactive Planning Session

• James Needham - Co-Founder + Joint Strategy Director | Untangld 1.30pm Recap and end of REALtalk

1.30pm – 2.00pm Buffet Lunch – Outside Pyrmont Theatre

Up to date program can be found at www.hairfestival.com.au/realtalk

REALtalk Speakers

James

Needham

Co-founder

+

Brand and Research Director

Untangld

James is the Co-founder of Untangld, an international strategy studio that’s redefining how ambitious businesses win. With over two decades of global experience helping shape some of the world’s most iconic and effective brands leading complex brand strategy and research projects for the likes of ANZ, Core Plus Studios, Vida Glow and Intrepid Global Travel.

Tamara Reid

Founder

Inside Industry

With 18 years of extensive experience in the professional hair and beauty industry, Tamara’s career journey encompasses a diverse range of expertise, including education, sales, brand marketing, and strategic partnerships for franchise groups, as well as beauty distribution and software brands. Tamara has a proven track record of developing and executing successful strategies that have significantly boosted brand visibility and revenue. Her ability to forge and nurture relationships has been instrumental in driving business growth and establishing revenue scalability.

James Fitzgerald, Managing Director, SMK

SMK is a global EdTech business specialising in marketing capability transformation, offering both continuous and one-off, discrete learning experiences for brand, government, notfor-profit and agency clients.

As Executive Director of Programming, James is responsible for devising and developing all blue chip and corporate education programs. James has taught over 15,000 senior business decision-makers from leading brands, organisations and agencies, including NAB, ABC, Apple, Ralph Lauren, Tourism Australia, Air NZ, Sky TV and many more.

Tabatha Coffey

TV Personality, Global Educator, Salon Coach and Public Figure

In the world of salon and personal development, Tabatha Coffey is a name that commands attention. Tabatha’s career trajectory is a testament to her evolution and influence.

Cas Donnelly CEO, Creator of CPR Colour

CPR Hair

Cass Donnelly is the CEO of CPR Hair, a family-run company founded by his father, John Donnelly, in 1963 as Australia’s first haircare manufacturer. Cass has a business degree from Bond University and a deep passion for the Australian hairdressing industry,

Natalie Chadwick

Entrepeneur, Creative Director, CPR Hair

Natalie blends innovation, education, and sustainability to transform the salon industry. Natalie has been instrumental in forging partnerships with Stellar, Sustainable Salons, and Hair 3Rs, ensuring salons have access to premium, eco-conscious solutions.

Nicole Lamer National Colour Ambassador

CPR Hair

With over 20 years of expertise in colour innovation and education, Nicole Lamers stands at the forefront of Australian hairdressing. As Creative Director of Revampd Hair Studio and a multi-award-winning stylist, she has mastered the art of precision colour, bespoke artistry, and trend-forward techniques. Now, as CPR Hair’s National Colour Ambassador, she leads the development of advanced colour education and highperformance formulations.

REALtalk Panellists

PANEL 1 - Successful Salon Branding Insights

Oscar Cullinan Founder, Oscar Oscar Salons, WILDE.hair, HMP BT & BeardDye

Emily Ciardiello Chief of Everything Officer and Creative Director, Foil me

Ali Holmes Director and Principal Stylist, Wild Life SOGO

Mary Alamine Co-Owner, Creative Director and Educator, Royals Hair

PANEL 2 - Successful Salon Branding Insights

Tracey Hughes General Manager, Dermapenworld, EXO-GROW

Mackenzie Hayward Founder, The Attaché Line

Nathan Yazbek Director, Salon Yazbek

Nicole Ranatawake Founder, Salon Purpose

LEARN.

Festival Education Sessions

Sunday 29 June 2025 | 9:00am - 5.30pm

Monday 30 June 2025 | 8:30am - 3.00pm

Location: Pyrmont Theatre, Rooms C2,2 & C2.3 plus C2.5 & C2.6

Hair Festival Education 2025 showcases the best professional education in the industry over two days. With over 70 educators from across the globe and our backyard, you’ll leave the Hair Festival Education Sessions with a laundry list of inspiration and hacks on salon business, colour artistry, cut and style, hair extension ideas and so much more. See who’s scheduled and start planning your heavenly hair weekend now.

*program subject to change

Educators

Scan to book your tickets.

LEARN.

Day 1 | Sunday 29 June, 2025

PYRMONT THEATRE

9.00am –1.30pm

*REALtalk Business Forum

2.00pm –3.00pm

Danger Jones: Bigger, Bolder and Brighter!

Your Educators: International educators Alexis Thurston, Chrissy Danielle and Tia Lambourn, along with talented local Australian artists

Presented by Salon Cosmetics & Danger Jones

3.30pm – 4.30pm

Urbana

Your Educators: Andrew Smith (UK) & Gianluca Grechi (IT) Presented by Milk_Shake

ROOM C2.2+C2.3

9.00am – 10.00am

Inch by Inch

Your Educator: Sarah Emilia Presented by Seamless1

10.30am – 11.30am

Editorial: Hair Mastery with Moroccanoil’s

Exclusive LIVE Editorial Photo Shoot

Education Session

Your Educators: Richi Grisillo, Chinney Yeap, Michael Beel and Jordan Hone in a photoshoot with Andrew O'Toole Presented by Moroccanoil

12.00pm – 1.00pm

BKT Mastery

Your Educator: Leticia Prado Presented by BKT Beauty

1.30pm – 2.30pm

Assorted Creams

Your Educators: Holly Breen, Ellie Bolton, Jules Gauci and Taren Conway. Presented by De Lorenzo

3.00pm – 4.00pm

ILLUME – Celebrating 50 Years of Joico

Your Educators: Katy Reeve, Carolyn Gahan, Andrew Cobeldick, Mikelah-Jayde Riley, Kerrie Di Mattia & Duncan Richards

Presented by Joico

ROOM C2.5+C2.6

9.00am – 10.00am

The Profit Booster: How to increase your profits by doing less

Your Educator: Sonia Tomas Presented by The Salon DR 10.30am – 11.30am

Becoming The Independent Entrepreneur: How to level up your money and mindset

Your Educator: Angela Rose Presented by Indie Hair Academy

12.00pm – 1.00pm

*Unfiltered & Unapologetic*

Your Educator: Caitlyn Muir Presented by Iconic Coaching 1.30pm – 2.30pm

Million Dollar Hair Extension Methods

Your Educators: Shakira Jade, Lori-Anne Hall, & Tenyka Rowe Presented by Hair Candy Australia

3.00pm – 4.00pm

GLOW UP

Your Educators: Tabatha Coffey, Kaine Vakai and Nicole Lamers. Presented by CPR Hair 4.30pm – 5.30pm

AIRTOUCH Method: The Future of Seamless Blondes

Your Educator: Alisher Karabaev Presented by Alisher

Day 2 | Monday 30 June, 2025

PYRMONT THEATRE

10.30am – 11.30am

Wake Up, Hair! Alfredo Lewis Reveals the Power of PTT-6®

Your Educator: Alfredo Lewis

Presented by Calecim with Ozdare

12.00pm – 1.30pm

Reuzel: Showcase with Leen & Bertus

Your Educators: Leen & Bertus

Presented by Hairco

2.00pm – 3.00pm

The Nafta Bunch

Your Educators: Gina Yates, Pete Koziell, Matt Tronson, Steph Meyer, Ben Kane, Tom White & Pete Walstab

Presented by Excellent Edges

*Program subject to change

ROOM C2.2+C2.3

9.30am – 10.30am

Mystery Education Session to be announced. Check out the Hair Festival website.

11.00am – 12.00pm

Cutting through the Clutter of Building You as a Brand

Your Educators: Jordan Tabakman & Teegan Dyson Presented by Inspire Brands

12.30pm – 1.30pm

Texture Re.Imagined

Your Educator: Chrissy Zemura Presented by Organic SUKU 2.00pm – 3.00pm

Mystery Education Session to be announced. Check out the Hair Festival website.

ROOM C2.5+C2.6

8.30am – 10.30am

A Movement Beyond Hair - FREE SESSION

Your Educators: Mariana Ibrahim, Cheryelle King, Jake Putan Presented by The Hoilistic Shift

11.00am – 12.00pm

Creative Clipper Cutting: The Modern Mullet

Your Educator: Kevin Nguyen Presented by Wahl 12.30pm – 1.30pm

Mystery Education Session to be announced. Check out the Hair Festival website.

2.00pm – 3.00pm

The Evolved Hairdresser

Your Educator: Mariana Ibrahim Presented by House of Metamorphosis

COMPETE.

Live Hair Festival Competitions

Monday 30 June 2025 | 11.00am

Location: THE STAGE & BUSINESS CONNECT Stage, Festival HUB, Hall 1, Level 2

Show off your skills and gain industry wide recognition!

Dreaming of being crowned the 2025 Hair Festival Champion?

By entering multiple competitions you gain extra points which leads you to secure your spot at the top and be awarded:

Hair Festival Stylist Champion 2025

Hair Festival Barber Champion 2025

Emerging Talent (Apprentice/Students) Champion 2025

Prize Money

With thanks to O&M

1st Place – $300

2nd Pace – $200

3rd Place – $100

All competitors will receive an O&M gift upon registering.

Competition Sponsor

Scan for full details

CONNECT.

MYSTIQUE

Sunday 29 June 2025 | 7.00pm – Late Campbell’s Stores, The Rocks

Scan to book your tickets.

Wonderland is back for a night that celebrates power, mystery and the art of the individual. It is the hairdressing industry’s biggest party and contains immersive brand experiences, photo opportunities, multiple bars with free drinks and a fantasy of food options. There is no other party in the industry like Wonderland. Join us for this unforgettable night of gold, glamour and a touch of Mystique where Wonderland lives up to its name as the only way to celebrate the Hair Festival weekend – a full weekend in hair with the most diverse education offering in the industry.

*Festival Wonderland is a licensed event with alcohol service, therefore, attendance is for over 18’s only. Proof of ID will be requested on entry.

Two powerful products

Shortcuts Aire

For Independent Hairdressers, Barbers, and Beauty Professionals

Lightweight, mobile-friendly, and easy-to-use software

Perfect for solo operators or small teams on the go

Shortcuts Fusion

For Salon Owners and Multi-Site Operators SHORTCUTSAIRE.COM/STARTFORFREE

Robust, fully-featured software for growing teams and businesses

Advanced reporting, rostering, marketing, and more

Sign up for free and get started today Book a personalised demo today

TICKETS.

How to book

Hair Festival promises to be an action-packed weekend of fun for the entire hairdressing industry. Don’t miss out. Get your tickets today!

Types

Festival HUB Registration Shop until you drop with FREE access to the Hair Festival HUB.

Ticket includes access to; Festival HUB, RealTalk Business Forum, All Education Sessions and Festival Wonderland.

Festival Wonderland Party Inclusive of food and beverage.

*Festival Wonderland is a licensed event with alcohol service, therefore, attendance is for over 18’s only. Proof of ID will be requested on entry.

Scan to book your tickets.

BOND RESTORE SYSTEM PRO.

FESTIVAL BOUND

Dateline Imports will return to Hair Festival for 2025, with hero brands Malibu C and BaBylissPRO, as well as Silver Bullet, StyleCraft by Silver Bullet, Parlux, iQ Perfetto and Framar, all front and centre on THE STAGE and Festival Hub.

Dateline Imports is bringing its dynamic suite of brands - Malibu C and BaBylissPRO, Silver Bullet, StyleCraft by Silver Bullet, Parlux, Mizumi, iQ Perfetto and Framar – to Hair Festival 2025 with a significant impact. Taking place at The ICC, Sydney, on June 29 and 30, be prepared for two full days of inspiring insights, looks and innovations from these leading brands.

Special international guest stars will offer free education sessions on dedicated stages that will take over the Festival Hub. A Dateline Imports stage, showcasing BaBylissPRO and StyleCraft by Silver Bullet educators, as well as a separate, specialised Malibu C stage, will keep the education rolling all weekend long.

In the education sessions, BaBylissPRO’s international and Australian educators will inspire with a blockbuster line-up. Headlined by BaBylissPRO Global Ambassador, Paul Percival, hailing from the UK, Paul will lead the 2025 Australian BaBylissPRO Education Team in showcasing the brand’s technology and his renowned approach to hair, where his modern looks are defined by their clean lines, soft texture, and natural movement, with creative twists. Paul boasts a celebrity clientele, editorial expertise and over 25 years of experience, as a leading session stylist and the founder of Percy & Reed salon in Central London. His work for celebrities such as the Spice Girls, Bjork, Kylie Minogue, Ellie Goulding and Calvin Harris, not to mention at global Fashion

behind scalp health, vibrant colour results and how to effectively tackle hair loss.

Weeks and on high profile film sets, makes him a sought-after talent.

Joining Paul for his first live appearance in Australia, both on THE STAGE and the Dateline Imports stage all weekend, members of the National Education Team will also share their business talents and barbering expertise.

For Malibu C, American boardcertified hair colourist, certified clinical trichologist and global educator for the brand, Missy Peterson, will educate on the Malibu C stage, as well as THE STAGE, which is the main source of bite-sized education in the Festival Hub. Missy will present an education session titled ‘Combat Hair Loss and Restore Vibrancy: The Science of Corrective Haircare and Colour’, where she will teach the science

Sam Squires, the StyleCraft by Silver Bullet Australian Ambassador and an esteemed barber, educator, and entrepreneur, will also present on the Dateline Imports main stage throughout the event. Originally from Wales, Sam is based on the Gold Coast and is the founder of the multi-location Backbone Barbershop Group. He also educates with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to develop industry standards with a particular focus on advanced fade techniques, beard grooming, scissor cutting and taper fade techniques.

“Delivering the foundations I believe make a great barber while not over complicating the approach,” Sam said.

In the free Festival Hub, Dateline Imports will also launch a myriad of new products, with key launches especially from BaBylissPRO. The all-new Nightfall Collection offers dusky hues across the powerful technology of the BaBylissPRO Nightfall Nano Titanium Optima 3000 Hair Straightener, Nightfall Nano Titanium Extended Barrel Curling Iron, Nightfall FXONE Trimmer and Foil Shaver Duo and Nightfall FXONE Lo-ProFX Clipper and Trimmer Duo.

The brand will also launch the Nano Titanium Light Ionic High-Speed Dryer, which weighs less than 450g as an ultralightweight, effective salon tool, available in Matte Black, Neon Green and Blush Pink. A digital BLDC motor and nine LED heat and speed settings pack power and versatility in a small frame and unique T-shaped design. A concentrator nozzle, extra-deep contoured diffuser and straightening comb attachments add to this technology.

Don’t miss Dateline Imports at Hair Festival 2025 as a central component in hairdressing’s bona fide, dedicated weekend!

For more information visit www.datelineimports.com.au

Missy Peterson

BaBylissPRO’s Educators

SUSTAINABILITY

GAME CHANGERS

We celebrate Sustainable Salons’ ten year milestone by looking back at the many ways they’ve changed the industry – and the world.

Surmounting to what is now a decade of impact, in 2015, hairdresser Paul Frasca and environmentalist Ewelina Soroko set out to revolutionise salon sustainability. Their audit of salon waste across Australia revealed that over three million kilograms of materials were being sent to landfill annually.

A decade later, Sustainable Salons is a profit-for-purpose organisation that has diverted more than two million kilograms of waste from landfill, creating a blueprint for a circular salon economy. This discovery sparked a movement that can modestly be summarised in ten key innovations in ten years.

HAIR BOOMS

Sustainable Salons began by tackling one of the most surprising waste streams - hair. By collaborating with universities and local governments, they developed hair booms, stockings filled with hair to adsorb oil in spills on land and in sea. The booms have since been rolled out in oil spill clean-ups, including the 2021 Kirkalocka oil spill, and now support councils around the country in maintaining cleaner waterways.

Over 114,264 kilograms of hair and pet fur has been collected and repurposed, proving that even the smallest clippings can make a big environmental difference.

SOILZ ALIVE

Born from a desire to explore biological uses for hair waste, Sustainable Salons collaborated with former hairdresser Jackie Yong to create Soilz Alive, the world’s first hair-powered soil treatment. Developed with support from agricultural researchers, this treatment enhances biodiversity and supports regenerative farming practices. It’s now available to Sustainable Salons members to purchase and retail to their clients.

HAIR TO GRAPHITE

Sustainable Salons partnered with Dr Amandeep Singh Pannu at Charles Sturt University to investigate the carbon potential of hair, discovering a process that converts hair into graphite, a material used in lithium-ion batteries. This paves the way for hair waste to become part of the solution to powering electric vehicles and smart devices.

HAIR BRICKS

Sustainable Salons is now venturing into the built environment, with the creation of the world’s first carbon-negative brick made using human hair.

Developed through extensive prototyping in collaboration with ecodesigners and material scientists, these Hair Bricks use hair’s natural insulating properties to create a strong, sustainable building material.

CLOSED-LOOP PLASTIC PRODUCT LINES

Early on, Sustainable Salons noticed the sheer volume of hard plastics entering salon bins. Working with local manufacturers, they established a process to sort, pelletise and remould plastics into new retail items.

Today, these include combs, sunglasses, plant pots, and more products available to members in ready-to-retail kits via the Member Store. It’s a full-circle model: waste becomes product, product becomes profit. Over 579,449 kilograms of plastics have been kept in circulation, reducing virgin plastic use and helping members share their sustainability story with clients.

SOFT PLASTICS TO PLASTOIL

Soft plastics, traditionally considered nonrecyclable, presented a major challenge. Sustainable Salons is now working with an organisation to turn soft plastics into PlastOil—a clean, reusable industrial oil. This process was developed over several years in partnership with resource recovery experts.

METALS TO MEALS

With aluminium in high demand (and an infinitely recyclable product!) Sustainable Salons saw an opportunity to transform metal recycling into good for the community. They built partnerships with recyclers and food rescue charities OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest, creating a profit-for-purpose pipeline. Collected metals are sold to recyclers, and every cent goes towards meals for those in need. Over 421,970 meals have been donated across Australia and New Zealand.

SUPPORTED EMPLOYEES

From the early days of operations, Sustainable Salons began working with

organisations to provide people with a disability with employment at their resource recovery depots. Today, this initiative has grown into a cornerstone of their operations, championing inclusive employment across Australia and New Zealand.

In partnership with social enterprises and disability support organisations, they’ve designed roles that provide structure, training, and community, with 80,460 hours of meaningful work created.

PONYTAIL DONATIONS

From the beginning, Sustainable Salons wanted to ensure donated ponytails were ethically sourced and consistently supplied to those in need. They established a certified collection process and built relationships with wigmakers and charities. Collected ponytails are now used to make medical wigs for people with conditions like cancer and alopecia, restoring dignity and confidence. 288,176 ponytails have been collected—enough to produce around 10,000 wigs.

THE SALON DIRECTORY

To support the financial sustainability of its members, Sustainable Salons launched the Salon Directory, a client-facing platform designed to connect ecoconscious consumers with like-minded salons. Developed internally with user experience in mind, the platform not only builds business visibility but also quantifies a salon’s impact for marketing and promotion.

With 467,027 visits and 65,733 bookings since launching the platform, it’s helping salons grow their business while advancing the sustainability movement. For more information visit www.sustainablesalons.org

MEET CALECIM® ADVANCED HAIR SYSTEM

THE SIX WEEK HAIR SOLUTION

I’ve been using CALECIM® Advanced Hair System on my clients and they’ve seen truly, incredible results, with noticeable improvement in six to eight weeks. The proprietary ingredient is the powerhouse PTT-6® that features stem cell growth factors and exosomes to improve thinning hair or excessive shedding. The hair serum gives my clients a product that improves the quality of their lives and sets the foundation for gorgeous hair.”

increase in the number of individual hairs on the scalp

ALFREDO LEWIS

HEADCASE 2025

A new era of Headcase Hair presents an update to their Potts Point design and a revolutionary new cutting service, which both epitomise luxury, writes Shannon Guss.

The all-new redesign of Headcase Hair, Potts Point, has made its debut, led by renowned hairdressers John Pulitano as Creative Director and Vincent Nobile as Colour Director, while adding to the multi-decade legacy of Headcase Hair.

The salon franchise operates out of both Potts Point and the flagship location in Paddington, and the new aesthetic only connects the spaces further.

“Our new space embodies rich, luxurious freshness while maintaining a connection to our flagship store,” John shared. “We’ve created a distinct identity and personality that sets this location apart while upholding our reputation as industry leaders not just in hair artistry, but in interior design as well. We want guests to enter with a sense of pride, experiencing a space that defies cookie-cutter salon aesthetics. As dictators of fashion and purveyors of excellence, our interiors reflect our commitment to leadership and innovation.”

Reflecting the deep heritage in the hair industry, this redesign means both spaces have been upgraded in the last few years, with the Paddington salon having opened in 1997 and the Potts Point space following in 2021. This history is pivotal to the Headcase Hair DNA, as is a focus on luxury and artistry.

“We want to communicate our longstanding presence as hair artisans through interiors that masterfully blend

historical elements with forward-thinking design. The ambiance mirrors that of a designer label boutique— we are the ‘Gucci of Hair’,” John said. “Every element within our space reflects beauty and authentic luxury. There are no reproductions or imitations; everything is genuine and of the highest quality. This philosophy directly parallels our approach to hair artistry— creating high-end results without shortcuts.”

“We’ve cultivated an atmosphere where clients feel elevated and surrounded by beauty at every turn. From carefully selected wall colours to exquisite flooring, premium stone finishes, and brass accents—every detail contributes to an immersive experience where luxury seamlessly meets holistic well-being,” he added.

John worked hand in hand with the designer, Belle Trovato Design, in a collaboration that reflected the salon’s passion for colour and design. The colour palette that defines both spaces is anchored by a signature milky pink-mocha wall tone, which balances the space and flatters every hair and skin tone with a neutral base.

John also personally designed several signature elements including custom cutting chairs and a feature, handcrafted chandelier that is a focal point of the space. Terazzo flooring, sunset rose marble benchtops, Farrow & Ball wallpaper, Japanese mosaic tiles in the hero reception desk, custom woodwork and glasswork and bespoke mirrors handcrafted by a brass artisan are other key details that finish the space.

“These personally designed pieces embody our commitment to originality and reflect the same artistic sensibility we bring to hair artistry,” John said. “Our design features reflect our ethos as artisans who deeply appreciate craftsmanship. Every

surface is bespoke and has been carefully crafted by skilled artisans. This collection of meticulously crafted elements creates a cohesive environment that transcends typical salon design, offering clients an exceptional, luxury experience that matches the high calibre of our hair services.”

In a big year for Headcase Hair, John has also introduced an all-new hair cutting technique, centred on layers, versatility and texture, and priced as a luxury salon service at $750, as available at both salon locations.

The hair cutting technique could be compared to Vidal Sassoon’s defining hairdressing concepts in the 1960s, but importantly draws on John’s esteemed expertise, and the way he views and cuts hair to personalise, individualise and suit the cut to each client. John has worked over decades with leading global designers and magazines, with extensive editorial and runway credits, which informs his aesthetic perspective.

“My aesthetic has always been lived-in luxury,” John explained. “With my extensive background in fashion and editorial hair, I’ve always loved hair that looked lived-in from the get-go. I found that conventional methods weren’t giving me the results I wanted. Conventional cutting was too clean, and razor cutting was too harsh. I wanted to create looks that paid homage to the classic cuts but needed to be cooler, more understated, yet rich, expensive, and fashion-forward. They needed to make a statement. They needed to move and flow as clients shook their heads.”

This approach has been a major facet of John’s storied hairdressing career and one he’s now finally defining as a service. It’s also one that clients, and recently beauty media, have lauded.

“Clients kept coming in, saying how many compliments they were getting about their hair, done or undone,” he shared. “This is definitely a legacy I’d love to leave to the industry because it’s going to be exciting to share a completely new way of doing thing. This

The most important part of this haircut is being with me and having my expertise. It’s like being at a chef’s table,”

JOHN PULITANO

technique will change the industry by giving classic styles—from pixie cuts to bobs, graduated bobs, shags, and long layers—a modern edge and futuristic feel. They are contemporary works of art with an attitude.”

Beyond the approach itself, the service is predicated on John’s skill and expertise, with an involved consultation becoming a feature of the service, next to an extensive treatment or “hair facial” that further puts the focus on hair health and quality. Clients are educated on scalp and hair health and work with John to find a cut that ideally suits their needs. The service follows to the hair design and hair cut, then a blow dry, before John also offers styling tips and product recommendations.

“The most important part of this haircut is being with me and having my expertise. It’s like being at a chef’s table,” John shared. “I’ll ask a few key questions and then take you on a journey, considering your looks, style, height, body shape, and face shape. In this scenario, I’m the expert.”

“A haircut is a key aspect of your appearance,” he added. “The power of a great haircut is a form of selfexpression and empowerment—it’s an investment in your confidence and professional image. It’s not just a luxury; it’s an investment.”

The cut is designed to last up to three months, maximising the client’s natural hair thickness, as elevating hair density and condition is a key priority in this service. The fresh cuts draw from modern shapes and aesthetics, in what John describes as “reimagining classic cuts with a modern edge”. Each look is tailored to the client, who is also given the confidence and education to easily recreate it at home, in what John hopes will innovate in the future of the hair industry at large.

“It’s the hair everyone dreams of no matter their age. This technique elevates your look no matter your age, making you feel sexy, confident, and empowered, it’s wearable art” he said. “This technique changes the way hair sits, giving it a futuristic feel and attitude.” For more information visit www.headcasehair.com.au

SALON PROFILE

VISION BLONDE

Melbourne’s Vision Blonde presents the next significant phase of Chetan Mongia’s prolific career, from New Zealand, to Australia and global achievements, writes  Shannon Guss

Step inside Vision Blonde. The South Melbourne salon has been under the operation of Chetan Mongia as of the last 12 months, building on his 15 years of industry experience as a former salon owner of New Zealand salons – Laboratorie and Barba in Auckland – and showcasing all the opportunities possible with his cross country move.

Chetan is a Wella Top Artist and quickly made his Aussie mark by winning the AHFA title of Victorian Hairdresser of the Year in 2024. With these talents, the salon’s bespoke colour work, especially in blondes, precision cutting and tailored services for each client set the salon apart. Chetan prides himself and the salon on its fashion forward haircuts, lived-in balayage, precision foiling, seamless brondes and beautiful shapes as salon features.

“Our approach is all about personalisation – no cookie-cutter techniques, just carefully crafted hair that suits the individual,” Chetan shared. “We also place a huge emphasis on client education, ensuring each guest leaves

not just with great hair, but with the knowledge to maintain it. Plus, the salon experience itself is elevated but never intimidating—think quiet luxury with a relaxed, welcoming vibe that is all about craft. Every colour and cut includes a consultation and treatment because healthy hair is non-negotiable.”

Chetan’s inimitable expertise steers the ship, as an editorial artist, runway stylist and educator who’s familiar across settings such as New York Fashion Week, London and Croatia. Chetan has worked with industry luminaries, allowing him to build both his craft and a well-rounded perspective on the industry.

“My journey has been about more than just hair; it’s about leadership, team building, and pushing creative boundaries,” he shared. “I’ve had the privilege of training and mentoring stylists, helping them refine their craft and develop their own unique artistic voice. Now, with Vision Blonde, I’m bringing all of that experience into a space that champions innovation, skill, and an elevated client experience. The goal has always been to create a salon that not only

delivers exceptional hair but also inspires both clients and stylists alike.”

Importantly, Chetan was also nominated for this year’s International Hair Awards in the category of Best International Women’s Collection, as honoured for his Vogue-inspired BLONDE collection, which explores a collection of blonde hues in an editorial setting as a tribute to the timeless beauty of blondes.

The salon itself boasts a modern, minimal, high-end and comfortable design, with hero features such as natural light, to perfect the colour looks, and a seamless flow in the layout of the space. Clients enjoy an intuitive experience in moving from consultation to colour, cutting, and styling.

“Every detail is considered to enhance both the client experience and the way our team works,” Chetan confirmed. “Beyond aesthetics, the design is deeply rooted in Vision Blonde’s culture. We’ve created a space that fosters collaboration, creativity, and a strong team dynamic. Our open, welcoming environment encourages stylists to share knowledge and work together, ensuring that every client benefits from our collective expertise. The design also supports a premium yet relaxed atmosphere, reflecting our belief in quiet luxury – where high-end service meets genuine connection.”

Wella Professionals, in their colour and treatment technology, is a major partnership for the salon, with the Wella Color Touch service, an ammonia and mineral oil free with metal purifier for vibrant colour results, and the Wella Illumina Color multidimensional colour option, as hero services. The brand’s Color Melt service and Glass Hair colour service are other features. This extends Chetan’s role as a Wella Top Artist, and Chetan credits the technology for its ability to create bespoke, high-performance and healthy results.

“As an educator and platform artist with Wella, I have the privilege of sharing knowledge with fellow professionals, inspiring creativity, and pushing the boundaries of artistry in our industry,” he said. “I strongly believe that true growth comes from empowering people while staying authentic to who they are—because a brand’s personality is shaped by the artists behind it. I’m also proud to be part of the Wella Next Gen Artistic Team, where I collaborate with like-minded creatives, exploring new ideas and shaping the future of hairdressing.”

For more information

Building a salon label based on good value, service and suiting the needs of its community, DIIORIO Salon has embarked on a journey to continue to influence the next generation of hairstylists while creating a luxury experience for clients in Sydney’s west.

“Off the back of significant salon growth the original renovation was pre-planned before the lockdown arrived, having the extra time enabled me to execute the redesign and restructure of our brand and salon with that little more attention to detail. The new location however was a completely new all-in experience to lift the standard of our salon beyond what previous renovations allowed,” salon owner Daniel Di Iorio said of the new shopping centre location, explaining the extra effort he’s put into the salon as a whole.

Since this time Daniel and his team have been busy developing business model changes to suit our ever- changing industry landscape. Beyond this, a new website, imagery and branding has all been part of the picture.

“As we celebrate ten years of success, one core principle has consistently guided our journey, and that’s value. In an industry where expectations vary, offering true value remains our focus. This includes not only delivering exceptional results but also investing in the future of our craft and our staff,” Daniel said.

“We are committed to educating and mentoring young talent, providing the skills and guidance needed to shape the next generation. By fostering an environment of continuous learning, we ensure the future of our industry remains in capable hands, driven by creativity, expertise, and a shared passion for excellence in and out of our salon.”

For Daniel and the team, everything begins with trust. Their purpose is built on the understanding that clear, open

10 YEARS OF DIIORIO

With a complete salon renovation in 2021 amidst lockdowns before moving to a completely new location in 2023, DIIORIO Salon has reached a significant milestone in their journey from small suburban salon to Western Sydney’s luxury hair destination, writes Cameron Pine.

communication is the key to setting realistic expectations and delivering exceptional results. The salon’s milestone ten years of experience is complemented by a team of passionate professionals, each contributing their skills to ensure they not only meet but exceed those expectations.

“Over the past ten years, these values have shaped our reputation. We’ve built lasting relationships with our clients and brand partners, creating a dynamic and enjoyable work environment that continues to inspire creativity and collaboration,” Daniel said.

“While the foundation of our success lies in trust, expertise, and passion, the greatest value we offer is something that sets us apart; a safe space for feedback. In a competitive industry, it’s impossible to be everyone’s hairdresser, but we believe it’s essential to welcome feedback—both positive and constructive.”

Through DIIORIO’s follow-up process, they ensure every voice is heard, providing the opportunity to address concerns and enhance the client experience, while opening discussions with all team members. This commitment to open communication nurtures strong, long-term relationships and allows DIIORIO to continuously improve and build on their ten-year legacy.

“As we celebrate ten years, we remain dedicated to offering value in every aspect of our business – it’s what has driven our success and will continue to guide us as we move forward into the next decade.”

With an ongoing partnership with L’Oréal Professionnel and leading brands in the market, DIIORIO continues to push the boundaries of experience and quality with new ten year decals, assets and promotions to celebrate their milestone in business and continually growing team.

For more information visit www.diioriohair.com

A.H SURRY HILLS

A.H Salons have found a new home in Surry Hills, with the third space under the A.H banner taking over the iconic former EdwardsAndCo Crown St. locale, writes Shannon Guss.

Anew chapter in the A.H Salon brand has debuted in Sydney, with A.H Surry Hills officially opening its doors under this new banner in March. The space takes over what was originally EdwardsAndCo Crown Street, with the team and the salon’s expert talent on hand to usher this salon into its new phase.

“We really loved the EdwardsAndCo brand but feel the time is right to bring all three salons under the A.H Salon name which has an impeccable reputation in our industry,” shared A.H Salon founder CJ Morello. “We have a fantastic mix of youth and experience working in our salons, including multi-award winning and globally recognised stylists. The existing Crown Street team are already phenomenal at what they do, which we have seen firsthand since we took over the salon last October. They are really excited about the name change and from what we’ve heard from clients they are as well.”

The third A.H Salon location adds to existing spaces in Newtown and Rozelle with warmth, creativity, community and philanthropy at the centre of this ever-ascending juggernaut. After taking over this Surry Hills location in late 2024, this year has marked its official inclusion into the A.H family, expanding the salon brand immensely in the process.

“Our spaces are quite large, with our most intimate space in Rozelle having ten stations, our Newtown salon with 16 stations and now Surry Hills with 22 stations, as well as two colour tables seating an additional 20 guests,” CJ explained. “We have up to 2000 guests through our collective doors each month, so for now we want to ensure that we deliver to each of them a unique experience that is theirs and theirs alone.”

The 430 square metre Surry Hills space is the ideal home for the seamless, lived-in colour, bold transformations and famous blow dries that A.H is known for. Some aesthetic refreshes and different partnerships also add to the new brand identity.

“We’ve brightened the space up a bit more and put the A.H touch on the space to really emphasise the stunning natural light and vaulted ceilings that the space possesses,” CJ shared. “One of the major changes we’ve made is that we recently changed the colour brand that the team use over to Redken colour, which is what we use in all our A.H Salons. We’ve also kept most of the luxury haircare retail brands on our shelves, as well as adding Kérastase to the family.”

Further updates and activities are in the pipeline. The salon started with a launch month from their official March opening that saw every client with an in-salon appointment receive a welcome pack worth about $100.

“So many of our guests have been incredibly loyal and generous to us since we took over the salon in October last year and we want to return the favour, as well as welcome new clients who might be walking through our doors for the first time,” CJ said.

Joining the A.H family means being welcomed into a community-minded, philanthropic salon brand. The salon recently conducted the Come Together charity event in support of Giant Steps, an Autism focused school in Putney. Artists such as Natalie Anne, Renya Xydis,

Karl Dawson, Remi Jeffers, Sharlene Lee, Jessica Del Borello, Jaye Edwards, Sharon Blain, Nicole Kae, Madison Voloshin, Sarah Emilia and Jules Tognini presented and hosted, with brands such as L’Oréal Group, Seamless1, KEVIN.MURPHY, Ozdare, Haircare Group, MUK, O&M and Wella supporting the event, showing their immense community relationships and impact. This impact extends to the massive team, workforce and salon community that ensures A.H thrives.

“Seven years ago we started with a team of seven people in one location. Fast forward to today and we’re lucky enough to have a team of 60 people across three stunning locations,” CJ said. “There are many different aspects that have helped us grow over the years. Our relentless focus on customer service would definitely be one of those, as well as our ongoing commitment to recruiting stylists who understand the unique hair needs of our guests.”

“No two A.H Salons are the same. Each location has its own personality and its own vibe – even the logos vary from location to location! This is by design so that each space is tailored to the local culture of each suburb. Our salons are run by locals for locals, as the biggest reason for our success has been our teams, from our managers all the way to our apprentices. They all care so much about our clients and it’s inspiring to see them work their magic each and every day. We have guests who travel from all over Sydney to visit us and regularly tell us we need more A.H Salons, so we’ll see what the future holds!”

For more information visit www.a-h-salon.com

NATURAL LEGACY

We look back at a history of Natural Look Australia – from its Adelaide roots to a global impact.

Dedicated to professional hairdressers, Natural Look Australia is celebrating a storied history born from its Adelaide inception with care, luxury and integrity at its core.

Natural Look Australia is the hero brand of Artav Australia, which was built in the 1950s by Arturo Taverna, a renowned South Australian hairdresser and beautician, building on his 30 salons in the state and harnessing his knowledge of both clients and hairdressers to curate the brand. Arturo set out to make locally-made, salon-quality products, drawn from decades of professional hairdressing

experiences, and Natural Look Australia emerged in the 1970s from this dream.

The Natural Look ethos is centred around combining professional performance with naturalbased formulations, as based on the belief that products should simply work well, feel good and be made with ingredients you can trust. As such, the Natural Look range is fully formulated with Pro-Vitamins, botanical extracts, and essential oils, with scalp care, skincare and hair care all vital tenets.

These salon-tested formulas have found global acclaim from these local beginnings, and the brand is now distributed in over 20 countries worldwide, as loved by both clients and professional hairdressers. The brand remains fully and proudly Australian made and family owned, and all manufacturing and systems at its head office are still situated in Adelaide, South Australia.

The brand’s leadership has now moved to the next generation in this long family legacy, with its founding values always at its core. The range looks forward to its next successes with attention to detail, a deep commitment to the professional hair and beauty community and national pride and sustainable values as its guide.

An Aussie success story built on professionalism, experience and strong brand values, we can’t wait to see what’s next for Natural Look Australia. For more information visit www.naturallook.com.au

The RE:GEN Roadshow –The Future of Hair & Skin

You’re invited to an unmissable evening of innovation, expertise & connection.

Network with industry peers, immerse yourself in our vibrant community, and enjoy delicious canapés and drinks—all while gaining invaluable knowledge from global experts.

Join an inspiring panel discussion featuring world-class specialists as they share cutting-edge insights, groundbreaking solutions, and emotional perspectives on the journey of hair loss.

Meet the World-renowned International Experts

Tracey Hughes – Hall of Fame hairstylist, International Keynote Speaker, and Global General Manager for EXO-GROW.

Dr Andrew Christie – World-leading microneedling expert. Award-winning educator, author, and specialist in clinical aesthetics and regenerative treatments.

Andrew Hansford – Key Opinion Leader in aesthetics education globally. Doctor, trichologist, and expert in hair restoration.

Corri Marshall – Director of Cosmeceuticals for DermapenWorld. An authority in microneedling, clinical aesthetics, and cosmetic chemistry.

Local Specialists – Successful aestheticians and hairstylists share real-world success stories and invaluable business strategies.

Tickets Now Available

Sydney: Tuesday, 5 August

Brisbane: Wednesday, 6 August

Gold Coast: Thursday, 7 August

Melbourne: Monday, 11 August

Adelaide: Tuesday, 12 August

Perth: Wednesday, 13 August

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your expertise, transform your approach to hair and skin care, and leave feeling inspired, empowered, and ready to lead in the industry.

Scan to Book Tickets Now

CONFIDENCE THAT BUILDS CLIENTS!

It’s time to rethink hair health and solutions for clients with fine or thinning hair. In today’s competitive landscape, salons must go beyond the basics to stand out and exceed client expectations in terms of customisation and prescriptive service. Tracey Hughes explains why EXO-GROW looms as the future of scalp and hair wellness.

EXO-GROW™ Collection by DermapenWorld™ offers clients a unique, results-driven treatment experience, specially formulated to target hair loss, thinning hair, and scalp health. EXO-GROW is more than a product line—it’s an advanced in-salon treatment and home care range that combines cutting-edge science with restorative self-care.

ADVANCED SCIENCE FOR NOTICEABLE RESULTS

At the heart of EXO-GROW is innovative Exosome technology – microscopic, cell-derived messengers that drive regeneration and cell communication. These powerful carriers penetrate deep into the scalp, stimulating dormant follicles, enhancing scalp renewal, and creating the ideal conditions for healthy, stronger hair growth. Unlike conventional treatments, Exosomes work at a cellular level to support long-lasting, visible results.

EXO-GROW utilizes HLA-G COMPLEXA™ exosomes, which are double-lipid-coated structures containing over 3,300

Hair Confidence

Starts with the Scalp

Unlike other products that focus on the hair strands, EXO‑GROW nourishes the scalp and regenerates the follicles for real, visible results.

signalling proteins. This technology enhances cellular rejuvenation, improves scalp health, and supports hair follicle regeneration.

RESTORATIVE SELF-CARE RITUAL

The in-salon experience is a luxurious, multi-step ritual that nourishes the scalp and calms the senses. It begins with the EXO-GROW SCALP MASK™, paired with a soothing massage to stimulate microcirculation and relieve stress—the ultimate anti-inflammatory detox!

Next, the EXO-GROW SHAMPOO™ helps prevent follicle shrinkage by boosting antioxidants and revitalising the scalp. The EXO-GROW CONDITIONER™ then nourishes the scalp and follicles while protecting and smoothing damaged cuticles.

The treatment is completed with the EXO-GROW HAIR TONIC™, a potent Exosome-rich formula that stimulates follicles, supports a healthy hair cycle, and promotes fuller, thicker hair from the roots up. This advanced bio-formula includes the

world’s only immune-tolerant Exosome substances, meaning its effectiveness increases with each use.

Each of the three steps are formulated with a unique blend of peptides, growth factors, amino acids, coenzymes, ceramides, vitamins, minerals, and hyaluronic acid. These ingredients work synergistically to nourish the scalp, reduce inflammation, and improve hair thickness.

CLIENT DEMAND FOR THINNING HAIR SOLVED

Though EXO-GROW is a niche, supplementary collection, it fits seamlessly into your existing treatment and retail offerings. It’s not just about replacing your favourite products but enhancing them with a targeted, in-demand solution for thinning hair and scalp health.

For salon professionals, offering EXOGROW is a smart, highly profitable service. Treatments require minimal investment and deliver maximum impact—elevating your salon’s value and reinforcing your role as a leader in holistic, results-focused hair care.

Why Clients Love EXO‑GROW

RESULTS AND CONFIDENCE THEY’LL WANT TO MAINTAIN

At a time when well-being is everything, EXO-GROW gives clients more than just great hair—it helps them regain their confidence. With noticeable, lasting results, clients will not only love the experience—they’ll want to maintain it.

EXO-GROW is the modern armour for salon professionals ready to offer more than traditional haircare. Add it to your treatment menu and watch your clients’ confidence—and your revenue—grow.

Overall from the salon chair to the consumer experience, Dermapen EXO-GROW is praised for its scientific formulation, ease of use, and effectiveness in promoting hair growth and improving scalp health.

“We’re seeing more and more clients coming in worried about hair loss — it’s a really personal issue and it can hit confidence hard,” shared Helen Owens, Owner of Tigerlamb Salons. At Tigerlamb, we’ve always believed in going beyond the surface to help people feel their best, and that’s why I’m so passionate about finding real solutions. EXO-GROW by DermapenWorld has honestly blown me away. It’s smart, it works, and it will give our clients real results. We’re proud to be at the forefront of this evolving area, offering our clients hope, results, and a pathway back to feeling like themselves again. Being able to offer something that makes such a difference is exactly why I love what we do.”

www.dermapenworld.com

B Thicker, Stronger Hair: Enhance hair density and reduce hair fall.

B Clinically Proven Results: Keep clients returning with a product that works.

B Soothing Ritual: Offer an in‑salon experience that calms the senses.

B Conscious Formulas: Enjoy toxin‑free, dermatologist tested, and cruelty‑free products.

Add EXO ‑ GROW to your treatment menu and help clients reclaim their confidence with healthier, thicker hair.

INHAIR

THE LATEST SALON ARRIVALS

1. K18

AstroLift Reparative Volume Spray www.ozdare.com

2. CALECIM PROFESSIONAL Advanced Hair System www.ozdare.com

3. MILK_SHAKE Lifestyling Liquid Styler. and Shaping Foam. 1300 110 032

4. DAVINES Oi Soufflé world.davines.com

5. BIOSILK

Silk Therapy Miracle 17 Leave-In Conditioner 1300 241 258

6. NAK Blowout Smooth Mish www.nakhair.com.au

7. ELEVEN AUSTRALIA SMOOTH ME NOW Flyway Hair Balm www.ozdare.com

8. REF Stockholm Rough Wax 505 03 9583 1575

9. ALFAPARF MILANO PROFESSIONAL Semi di Lino Style&Care Thermal Protector www.alfaparfmilanopro.com

17

11 3 6 9 14 16

10. OLAPLEX

No.0.5 Scalp Longevity Treatment 1300 437 436

12 13 18

11. TRICHOVEDIC Luxury Glossing Serum www.trichovedic.com.au

12. AVEDA Miraculous Oil www.aveda.com.au

13. MUK HAIRCARE Treat Plus+ Bond Restoring Mask 1300 768 264

14. MR SMITH. Scalp Cleanse www.mr-smith.com.au

15. ALURAM

High Shine Glossing Treatment 02 9666 3611

16. DERMAPENWORLD EXO-GROW Scalp Mask www.dermapenworld.com

17. KERASILK

Smoothing Blow Dry Cream, Texturizing Cream and Ultimate Hold Hairspray www.kerasilk.com

18. O&M

C-SPRAY Dry Conditioner Spray 1300 724 635

19. EEKOLOKS® Mane Control Mousse, Deter‘n’Detangle Leave-In and Rock‘n’Repel Hairspray www.eekoloks.com

CHILDREN’S HAIRCARE RE-WRITTEN

Eekoloks haircare has garnered a reputation as an excellent choice for children due to its gentle, plant-based formulations designed specifically for young, delicate scalps and hair types. The brand prioritises safety, effectiveness, and fun, making haircare routines more enjoyable for both kids and parents while providing a professional choice in a market driven by cheap synthetic products and marketing.

Founded by Ana Saad during COVID-19 lockdowns, the emerging brand is more than just another product business—it’s a mission born out of love for her children and a vision to fill a crucial gap in the haircare market for professional quality products for children. Today, eekoloks® is reshaping how parents care for their kids’ hair while prioritising natural, sustainable solutions.

As a mother of three boys, Ana sought to create a brand that would cater to the unique needs of young children while aligning with her values of sustainability and health. This need became even more personal when her son Joshua, who has sensitive skin, struggled with reactions to conventional haircare products. Determined to find a solution that was both gentle and effective, Ana set out to create a line of products that would cater to the unique needs of children like Joshua. Her vision was to develop haircare that was free from harmful chemicals, safe for

sensitive skin, and also highly effective. Jayden and Joshua have been instrumental in the brand’s growth, making eekoloks® a true family effort. Jayden contributes to the creative content creation and eCommerce logistics, while Joshua proudly serves as the brand ambassador, sharing his personal story and connection to the products. Together, the family embodies the spirit of eekoloks®, making it a brand with authenticity and heart.

FILLING A CRITICAL GAP IN THE SALON MARKET

Every six to eight weeks, nearly two million primary school-aged children in Australia visit salons and barbers for haircuts and styling. Yet, until eekoloks® emerged, there was a glaring absence of haircare products designed specifically for kids—products that are not only effective but also natural, gentle, and safe. Despite this demand, 95 per cent of hair salons in Australia do not offer haircare products specifically formulated for children, leaving a significant gap in the market that eekoloks® is determined to fill.

The eekoloks® range includes detanglers, hairsprays, mousses, styling brushes, and the first plant-based styling powder on the market. All products are crafted with 100 per cent natural and organic ingredients, featuring Australian native tea tree oil for its cleansing and antibacterial properties.

WHY EEKOLOKS IS IDEAL FOR KIDS

Eekoloks products are crafted using 100 per cent naturally derived ingredients, free from harsh chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and sulphates. This approach ensures that children’s hair and scalps are treated with care, avoiding potential irritants.

The range includes products like the Rock‘n’Repel™ Hairspray, which incorporates natural ingredients known

for their ability to promote healthy hair growth, strength, and hydration. While not a medical treatment, these products provide an extra layer of defense to reduce the risk of head lice infestation.

The Deter‘n’Detangle™ Leave-In Spray is particularly popular among parents. It helps to easily remove knots and tangles, making brushing less stressful for both children and parents. The formula is designed to be gentle on young hair, leaving it smooth and manageable.

Eekoloks also offers products like the Mane Control™ Mousse and Rizz‘m’Up™ Styling Powder, which provide light hold and texture without the use of harsh chemicals. These products allow children to express their personal style in a safe and fun way.

AWARDED

In less than a year, eekoloks® has achieved accolades such as the 2024 NAPPA (National Parenting Product Awards), Organic Beauty Awards, and Vegan Choice Awards, and more recently the 2025 Sustainability Award and Beauty Shortlist Award. eekoloks® has proven its ability to deliver high-quality, cruelty-free and trustworthy products that resonate with parents and professionals alike.

With upcoming products like the Salt‘n’Play Texture Spray and Fightin’ Fohawk Styling Cream, eekoloks® is set to redefine how parents approach their children’s haircare routines in both Australia and international markets. For more information visit www.eekoloks.com

HUNTER

DESCRIBE YOUR SALON IN THREE WORDS. Good vibes, hidden oasis and great hair – but that’s more than three words!

WHAT IS THE FIRST THING THAT MOTIVATES YOU MOST MORNINGS?

Honestly its Fresha - our salon software. I check to see how hectic the salon schedule is. Then coffee comes to mind! At the moment, I’m an iced long black guy.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE SALON’S AESTHETIC?

During these beautiful autumn months, our floor-to-ceiling sliding doors open onto a private deck, creating a beautiful indoor-outdoor vibe that our clients and staff love. Think polished concrete floors, exposed brick, custom mirrors, MCM lounges, and an incredible architectural copper exterior. I would say our salon’s aesthetic is a mix of industrial and soft natural finishes making it feel like a home away from home.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE WORK THAT WALKS OUT OF YOUR SALON?

Effortless and tailored to each client. Whether it’s bold and edgy or soft and natural, our goal is to do hair that looks amazing and that makes you feel great!

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE OF IN HAIRDRESSING?

I’d love to see more creativity in hair styling, utilising our client’s natural textures, and experimenting with unique styles and unconventional cuts to highlight their individuality. I believe the industry is actually embracing a more artistic approach to styling now and I’m loving it!

Our Shark Beauty tools have been a game changer in this department, their hot tools have no heat damage so they allow you to get creative and create bold styles that don’t compromise hair health.

WHERE DO YOU FIND THE MOST INSPIRATION?

The next generation of hairdressers! Seeing their excitement

while learning and growing is insanely rewarding. Some of my young ones are no doubt going to add a big impact on our industry and they make me want to keep doing what I do.

WHAT IS ONE THING YOU DO FOR YOUR TEAM THAT YOU THINK IS IMPORTANT?

Education! I can’t say it enough. Every hairdresser, regardless of experience, should always be upskilling.

WHAT DO YOU WISH YOU COULD DO MORE OF?

Travel! I’d love to do more overseas fashion weeks, but being a family man has kept me grounded—literally. My boys are getting older now so, hopefully, I’ll be jet-setting again soon. I’d love to take them with me one day and I have an inkling one might even be following in my footsteps!

WHAT WAYS DO YOU KEEP YOUR TEAM ENGAGED?

We do a lot of hands-on education. It brings the team together, we have fun and everyone feels really inspired and motivated. I also work extremely hard every day and really do lead by example.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL CLIENTELE?

I believe I have the best clients! For me, personally, I see my clients as friends who I get to catch up with every few weeks. My clients are why I love my salon so much.

HOW DO YOU GROW WITHOUT LOSING THE CULTURE OF YOUR SALON?

We have tried to stay true to our values—prioritising a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere where clients feel at home. As we grow, we try to make sure to hire like-minded people who align with our culture, ensuring that no matter how big we get, the vibe stays the same. My team at the moment are incredible, I am so lucky to work with each and every one of them.

HOW IS IT DIFFERENT FROM OTHER SALONS IN THE AREA?

Beyond the unique aesthetic, it’s the atmosphere we’ve created. Willomina is welcoming, relaxed, yet still professional. We are all about good vibes and great hair, without the pretentiousness.

Founder of Willomina Salon CHRIS

HAYLEY CLOSE

Founder of The Velvet Hair Lounge

IF YOU COULD DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE IN THREE WORDS WHAT WOULD THEY BE?

Tomboy, minimal, androgynous yet slightly opulent. I appreciate uniqueness over trends.

WHAT MOTIVATED YOU TO OPEN YOUR OWN BUSINESS AND PURCHASE YOUR OWN PREMISES?

Definitely job security for my family and the ability to have a healthy work life balance. Knowing that I’ll never have a rental increase again or have to worry about finding a new commercial space – I’m here to stay!

WHAT HAIR INSPIRES CURRENTLY?

I’m all about those low maintenance lived in coloursaccentuating the natural waves and tones within the hair. Then establishing a cut and style that complements the individual’s features and best assets.

WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE MORE OF IN HAIRDRESSING?

Back to the basics! Less is more, then elevated! Working smarter rather than harder to optimise as much extra salon timing as possible.

HOW WOULD YOUR DESCRIBE YOUR SALON’S AESTHETIC?

Intimate, with a subtle edge and black, black, black! Classic and simple with a touch of deep green for some sophistication.

WHERE DO YOU GAIN INSPIRATION OUTSIDE OF HAIR?

Music, fashion and friends! Learning more about myself along the way is my own source of inspiration to evolve and grow as a person. Comfortability creates confidence. I’ve felt a huge growth within my work, more so recently in the past five years, due to being comfortable with my abilities.

IF YOU COULD DO MORE OF SOMETHING WHAT WOULD IT BE?

Travel, which seems to be the ultimate goal for everyone these days. I am happy and content within my own love bubble of life. I finally feel grounded within my career to take time as I need to R&R!

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL TO ONE COUNTRY AND WORK FOR A MONTH WHERE WOULD IT BE?

The list is somewhat endless, as there are so many opportunities now for travel to unique places. I would have to say Japan! I’m fascinated by the Japanese hair industry and fashion and I’d love to experience the culture amongst the trip and their quirky sense of style.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR IDEAL CLIENTELE?

I adore my regular four to six weekly clients. I associate with these people more than my own friends and family. I appreciate the intimacy, rapport and the unwavering loyalty I share with these clients.

WHAT IS ON YOUR CURRENT PLAYLIST?

Oddly enough, Tina Arena is taking the forefront in the salon this month. No complaints might I add - Y2K forever!

WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF YOU WEREN’T DOING HAIR?

The endless possibilities! I did idealise the thoughts of becoming a paramedic. However, by the time I had entertained the idea, I was already so deep in the hairdressing game that I knew I could financially push myself to a higher level, which is the end goal for me! Early retirement here I come!

HOW HAVE YOU SEEN HAIR COLOURING AND SERVICES CHANGE IN THE LAST FEW YEARS?

I feel as though we’ve certainly had to level up as an industry. We’re expected to show up on so many more levels now from client service to content, compared to my apprenticeship days. It’s like a barista, photographer, marketing expert all in one! Plus maintaining your hair skills. I don’t feel as though there’s been much of a change within colouring and general services, people want lived-in low maintenance hair that suits their style but what has changes is the level of expectation with the overall experience.

WHAT IS YOUR MOST POPULAR SERVICE RIGHT NOW?

Currently I’d say the lived in blondes that are light and creamy, as well as soft blush and copper tones.

LAUNCH ALERT

Gamma+ have announced two bold launches to be unveiled at Hair Festival 2025, with the X-Hybrid Cordless Straightener and Air ConoR attachment ushering in their next phase of technology, alongside inspiring event education thanks to lead educator Jordan Tabakman.

Gamma+ will have a major presence at Hair Festival 2025, over June 29 and 30 at The ICC, Sydney. Alongside other national and global brands, educators and industry leaders, the brand will reveal new dynamic launches in the free Festival Hub and inspire on stage in the Education Sessions rooms. At the Festival Hub, Gamma+ will be launching two new tools to the industry to elevate styling and barbering. First, the new, innovative X-Hybrid

guiding attendees on how to grow their profile in a crowded market, while also showing off global barbering trends.

On Monday, June 30, Jordan and assistant Teegan Dyson will present ‘Cutting Through The Clutter of Building You as a Brand’, with a creative look and learn and lessons on personal branding, business development, team building and tips and tricks in operating a successful salon. The presentation will offer an interactive Q&A so attendees gain personal and specific insights from Jordan.

Jordan is the owner of four salons across the The Barber Club Australia, as well as international spaces through The Barber Club Bali and The Barber Club India, alongside his role as the Australian, New Zealand and Indian lead educator for Gamma+. Jordan is renowned as a stage show presenter showcasing live haircut education and techniques around the world and sharing the learnings from his successful entrepreneurship. At Hair Festival he will share his blueprint for this success and so much more.

Don’t miss these inspiring launches and insights in the hairdressing and barber space, joining a myriad of unmissable highlights at Hair Festival 2025.

See you then!

For more information visit www.gammaplus.com.au

Jordan Tabakman

INBEAUTY

DEEP INTO THE FOREST

Building on the distinct scent of Apex Roja is the new APEX EAU INTENSE, a fragrance inspired by those who wish to stand out and feel a deeper connection to the world around them. A dynamic medley akin to an olfactive adventure into a verdant rainforest, this illuminating Chypré, as a heady sandalwood base, is like stepping under the olfactory canopy of the rainforest. At the very highest leaves, a unique cholorphyl accord intertwines with sage, bergamot and mint. www.libertineparfumerie.com.au

FIRM THINGS UP

Joining La Mer’s most recent launches and building on the brand’s ‘miracle broth™’ status with a targeted solution in a unique gel-like serum formulation is ‘the lifting firming serum’. This targeted treatment is proven to help sculpt the upper and lower areas of the face to visibly transform skin across six key structural zones for a multi-dimensional, lifted appearance. Powered using the visible youth-regenerating Miracle Broth and a Restructuring Ferment, it boosts skin density for a more voluminous look with 92 per cent saying they appeared younger instantly. With 50 years of skincare science on your side, inspired by an arsenal of sea minerals and packaged in a new silver-look bottle, it’s science meets quintessential La Mer. www.cremedelamer.com.au

SIMPLE BUT NOT BASIC

SYMBIOSIS

BEAUTY NEWS

VITAMIN C ALTERNATIVE

Utilising plant-derived cell repair, Vanessa Megan Skincare’s Metamorphosis Re-Gen Cell Repair Oil contains Bakuchiol, a plant derived active with collagen to stimulate, brighten and power the skin with anti-microbial properties that promise to be the world’s best plant alternative to retinol. Addressing hyperpigmentation and skin elasticity from the first drop, a combination of bakuchiol, vitamins A, E, P, K, zinc and omega-3-6-9 works like a multi-vitamin shot to the skin to deeply nourish, protect and help reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Ideal for night-time and overnight repair, this potent formulation packs a serious punch in every single drop – with noticeable results seen the same day.

www.vanessamegan.com

New to market is an affordably simple but not basic beauty brand from the experts at INSKIN Cosmedics and Marie Cocciolone – the only Australian woman to create three cosmeceutical beauty brands. Affording more consumers access to skincare that suits all skin concerns or any bathroom aesthetic, INSKIN.CO offers a comprehensive range of cosmedical skincare products, formulated to provide accessible, evidence-based solutions for radiant, healthy skin all with all products having an RRP of $55, exclusive of the starter kits, which are valued at RRP $135. Affordability and effectiveness is the name of the game, within an ethos of minimal beauty and scientific solutions. “My goal is to give professional skin clinics a buffet of active ingredients that are clinically proven and will cover every patient’s budget and skin needs,” Maria shared. www.inskinco.com

Containing Astaxanthin derived from multiple microorganisms that claims to be 500 times more potent than vitamin C, 560 times more potent than Green Tea, 800 times more powerful than Coenzyme Q10, 3000 times mightier than resveratrol, and a staggering 6000 times stronger than Vitamin C, Assence Night Crème by Cutise has an army working in its favour as created by a compounding pharmacist. The product also contains Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate (HPR) – a hybrid of both retinol and retinoic acid that hydrates the skin and improves elasticity. It’s also less irritating on the skin than traditional retinol and Vitamin C so you can achieve the radiant glow often associated with high strength vitamin A, minus the downtime. www.cutise.com.au

7PM TILL LATE >> THE STAR EVENT CENTRE GALA AWARDS NIGHT:

SPONSORED BY

SUPPORTED BY

INCLUDING ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE 2025 HOT SHOTS TEAM SPONSORED BY

proudly supporting

CELEBRATING THE BEST OF AUSTRALIAN & NEW ZEALAND HAIR CREATIVES

SALON SAFETY

Bizcover looks at minimising risks and client expectations in 2025.

A great salon experience starts long before the first snip of the scissors. Beyond great customer service and an inviting environment, the everyday things you do to create a safe and professional salon can help to build trust, reduce risk and see your clients returning regularly.

Here’s how you can reduce risks and hazards in your salon while still creating a welcoming space for clients and planning for the unexpected.

PRIORITISING HYGIENE AND CLEANLINESS

Living in a post-COVID world means that many people are still highly conscious of hygiene standards. Therefore, general hygiene and cleanliness are not just about aesthetics – they’re essential to your salon’s perceived professionalism and client trust.

Maintaining high hygiene standards helps to protect your team and your clients from infection risks while also building client trust. Always sanitising tools between use, regularly cleaning high-touch surfaces and using disposable items where appropriate can help to make sure you’re complying with local health regulations and keeping clients and staff safe.

MINIMISING TRIP HAZARDS

Salons are busy environments where cords, tools and foot traffic can lead to accidents.

Make sure you take a proactive approach to fall and trip hazards in your salon by securing electrical cords and keeping floors dry and free of hair and clutter. Any should always be cleaned immediately. Anti-slip mats can also be a smart investment, especially in high-risk areas like around wash basins.

MITIGATING PROFESSIONAL ERRORS

Even the most experienced stylists can have an off day. While mistakes are rare in a well-run salon, it’s still important to be prepared for unexpected mishaps.

Clear communication and thorough consultations can help prevent misunderstandings and manage client expectations. Take detailed notes, ask the right questions, and get client sign-off for more complex treatments. Encourage your team to be upfront if something goes awry so it can be handled quickly and professionally. This can help you to minimise any reputational damage while also ensuring client safety.

DESIGNING AN EFFICIENT AND INVITING FLOOR PLAN

A well-designed salon isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it should also make sense. The layout of your salon can boost productivity, enhance the client experience and, importantly, reduce the risk of accidents.

The reception area should be clearly defined and easy to locate from the salon’s entrance. The flow from reception to the waiting area to workstations should be smooth and logical. This can help to minimise unnecessary foot traffic and keep high-traffic areas clear.

ACCESSIBILITY FOR STAFF

Think about your team’s daily movements and the way they

interact with each other. Can they move freely between stations without dodging furniture or cables? Are products and tools easily accessible without crossing busy areas?

ACCESSIBILITY FOR CLIENTS

Not every client has the same mobility requirements, and your layout should reflect that. Making your salon accessible is thoughtful and consideration and also makes good business sense.

Encourage your team to be upfront if something goes awry so it can be handled quickly and professionally. This can help you to minimise any reputational damage while also ensuring client safety.”

Consider installing a ramp at the entrance, widening walkways to accommodate mobility aids, and ensuring that treatment areas and waiting zones are easy to access. If your salon has a bathroom, make sure it’s equipped with grab rails, adequate turning space and non-slip flooring.

SAVVY STORAGE

A clutter-free salon is a productive salon. Smart storage solutions can keep your space tidy, efficient and visually appealing. Built-in shelving, under-station drawers, and vertical storage can help you maximise space without sacrificing style.

PLANNING FOR THE UNEXPECTED

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, accidents still happen. Even if you’ve designed the perfect floor layout and assessed every area for possible hazards, things can still go wrong. This is where business insurance may be able to help you, keeping your salon up and running when the unexpected happens.

Public Liability insurance is designed to covers legal fees and compensation costs if a customer, member of the public, or a supplier claims against you for injury or damage to their property as a result of your alleged negligent business activity. This could be something as simple as a client slipping in a puddle of water or tripping on an uneven tile.

Professional Indemnity insurance can be an important form of protection for businesses that provide specialist services or professional advice. It is designed to respond to claims against your business for losses as a result of actual or alleged negligent acts or omissions in the provision of your professional service or advice.

Business Insurance is a tailored insurance packageotherwise known as a BizPack - designed to provide cover for your business contents, stock, tools and commercial premises when an insured event occurs, such as fire, storm, theft or even accidental damage. You can customise it to suit your salon’s unique needs, like including cover for portable equipment, glass and for loss of revenue due to business interruption in specified circumstances.

Business insurance doesn’t have to be a long and complicated process. BizCover makes it easy for you to get instant cover online from some of Australia’s leading insurance providers in minutes.

Visit www.bizcover.com.au or call 1300 805 821 to compare quick and easy business insurance quotes.

THE KEY

KPIs provide a clear and measurable way to track the success and progress of not just your business, but your entire team toward their goals. Angel Barham takes a look at a few reasons why KPIs are crucial.

BOOST YOUR SALON’S SUCCESS WITH EFFECTIVE KPIS

Is your salon, spa or clinic reaching its full potential? Understanding and using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) is the secret weapon your business needs to grow.

KPIs are the crucial indicators to your business’s performance. They track the most important aspects of your operations, helping you stay on course for growth, profitability and customer satisfaction.

WHY KPIS ARE IMPORTANT

Without clear metrics, it’s easy to fall into a routine of just ‘getting by’ without knowing if you're truly progressing and growing your salon.

I recommend adding some time into your daily or weekly admin process to check on some performance metrics. For a salon or spa, the top three metrics you should look at are your client retention rate, client average spend, and retail sales. These three metrics help get an overview of your operations and identify any problem areas, such as if people visit but never return, or don’t purchase retail products to maintain their hair health at home. Don’t be afraid to share these metrics with your team, it gives them a clear, actionable goal to focus on.

HOW TO KEEP YOUR TEAM MOTIVATED

The problem many people have is getting their team motivated to reach the targets you set for them – and the biggest reason why is because the number you set isn’t realistic.

Once you’ve decided which KPIs to focus on, use your salon software to run reports on past performance, and set targets that push your team slightly beyond their comfort zones. However, if goals are too far out of reach, they can cause frustration and disengagement. It’s all about finding that sweet spot where goals are challenging yet attainable. Make sure you regularly check-in with your team to see their progress, and don’t forget to celebrate when they reach it – this will ensure your staff feel valued and

supported. Your salon software should automatically track your team's progress toward their goals, making it easy to check-in on performance with a few clicks.

THE IMPORTANCE OF TRACKING KPIS

External factors like seasonal demand, promotions, or shifting client preferences can all impact your salon's performance, and it’s important to keep that in mind as you track your performance throughout the year. By consistently tracking what you’ve set as your target, you can spot potential issues early on and take proactive steps to address them before they become bigger problems.

I recommend you use your salon software to compare the salon’s performance to the same period in 2024. For example, if you notice a dip in retail sales this month but saw a similar trend at the same time last year, it could simply be due to seasonality and not something to be too concerned about. Recognising these patterns helps you avoid unnecessary worry and make more informed decisions. Your salon software should be able to analyse historical data, enabling you to track year-on-year trends and identify recurring patterns, so you can make better, data-driven decisions moving forward.

By identifying the right KPIs, setting attainable targets, and using salon software to track progress, you’ll create a motivated, high-performing team that is always working towards your salon’s goals, which means more in the pocket for everyone.

Angel Barham is a marketing expert at Kitomba Salon and Spa Software. To learn more about how Kitomba’s target and reporting features can help your business thrive in 2025, visit www.kitomba.com or call 1800 161 101.

THE FREELANCE REVOLUTION

The Australian hairdressing landscape is undergoing a notable evolution, with more stylists than ever breaking away from traditional salon employment to embrace freelance independence, Shortcuts takes a look at this trend and what it means for our new dawn of independence in hair.

A significant portion of Australian hairdressers now operate as Sole Traders, with the trend showing no signs of slowing down. This transformation has been brewing for years but accelerated after the pandemic and there’s a number of reasons why.

What was once viewed as a distant future for our industry has rapidly become our present reality, with the pandemic acting as both a disruption and catalyst for change.

THE DRAW OF INDEPENDENCE

For many stylists, the appeal of going freelance is crystal clear, autonomy and flexibility are the driving forces. This shift isn’t just about changing workplaces; it’s about reimagining career possibilities.

“I started freelancing before buying my business,” shared Sara Teixeira, owner of Senso Hair in Drummoyne, who works independently from Indi Sky and has been in the hair industry for over 32 years. “Over the years, my business has evolved, and today, I work independently.”

There are many benefits that keep Aussie stylists making the leap. Going freelance means complete creative control over your column and specialisation, as well as flexibility with working hours to accommodate life’s evolving demands and the freedom to build a clientele that appreciates your unique specialty. It also offers the ability to set your own prices without salon markup pressures and reduced overhead through salon suites, rent-a-chair models, mobile salons or home salons.

THE BUSINESS REALITY CHECK

The transition to indie styling isn’t all creative freedom and flexible hours. Many new rent-a-chair operators find themselves unprepared for the business responsibilities that come with independence.

Common stumbling blocks for Australian independents include:

• Tax obligations and financial management: Handling ABNs, BAS statements, and ensuring proper financial planning requires discipline and organisation.

• Insurance responsibilities: Professional indemnity and public liability insurance become your responsibility, with specific requirements for operating in shared spaces.

• Work/life boundaries: Even with more flexibility, solo operators need to establish clear boundaries to prevent burnout or a loss of creativity.

• Finding new clients: It is great to have a clientele, but if you need to start from scratch.

DIGITAL TOOLS RESHAPING FREELANCE PRACTICE

The Australian freelance stylist movement has been

empowered by locally-developed tech solutions that level the playing field between independent operators and established salons.

“Shortcuts Aire has become such an essential part of that process, supporting me as a solo operator,” Sara said. For today’s independent stylist, digital tools provide essential capabilities, such as:

• Mobility and flexibility: “Having the flexibility to use Shortcuts Aire across multiple devices has been a gamechanger. I can access my schedule anytime, anywhere, which helps me stay on top of bookings without being tied to the salon all day,” Sara said.

• Client management systems: Digital platforms that keep comprehensive client history, formulation records, and appointment details.

• Marketing tools tailored for individuals: Sara notes her system “has amazing business and marketing features, online booking, and SMS capabilities”.

• Time management features: “The ability to split time blocks has made my scheduling much smoother. It lets me allocate the right amount of time for each service, which helps me stay organised and allows me to work on more than one client at a time,” explained Sara.

THE POWER OF FREELANCE SUPPORT NETWORKS

While going independent offers freedom, it doesn’t mean you have to do everything alone. The emerging salon suite models across Australia provide both workspace solutions and professional communities.

This collaborative approach redefines professional support for freelancers:

• Shared resources: Many independents find cost efficiencies by sharing equipment and even combining buying power.

• Specialised software solutions: Tools specifically designed for solo operators that Sara describes as “affordable, accessible, and extremely reliable”.

• Professional associations: Industry groups increasingly offer sole trader support and resources, including the AHC.

• Mentorship networks: Connections with experienced freelancers who can guide newcomers through the transition.

THE INDUSTRY REIMAGINED

As one industry insider observed, the business model of Australian hairdressing is being rebuilt through this freelance revolution. Traditional salons are adapting by offering more flexible arrangements or more benefits, while industry suppliers are creating systems specifically for independent operators.

For stylists considering the leap, success comes down to recognising that you’re not just a hairdresser anymore, you’re a business owner who does hair. This mindset shift is crucial. To sign up head to www.shortcutsaire.com/startforfree and start running your business with confidence.

STEP INTO A NEW ERA OF PERFORMANCE. INTRODUCING THE SMART PERMANENT HAIR COLOUR POWERED BY SKINCARE

ERA OF HIGH-PERFORMING, MODERN COLOUR.