Olivia Garden, a leader in professional and consumer hair care tools, proudly introduces its latest innovation: the OG Barber Shear Collection. Designed with precision, durability and comfort in mind, this collection includes three shear sizes (5.75”, 6.25” and 7”) along with a 6” thinner, catering to the diverse cutting needs of barbers and hairstylists.

Each shear in the OG Barber Shear Collection is engineered with a distinctive matte black titanium coating, reinforced steel alloy and convex blades. These unique features enhance durability and ensure superior hardness and longevity for smooth and effortless cutting performance. Plus, with larger finger holes and two sets of finger ring inserts, the shears provide a customized, ergonomic fit for all hand sizes.

The 6.25” thinner, designed with 30 handcrafted teeth featuring micro-serration, offers seamless blending and texturizing capabilities. An offset handle with specialized thumb curvature keeps the hand relaxed in a natural open position, reducing strain during extended use.

Each OG Barber Shear Collection purchase includes a premium zipper case with essential maintenance tools like the ShearCare™ oil brush, cleaning cloth, finger ring inserts and a tension adjustment tool. Purchase also offers eligibility for the Exclusive Service Program. This program allows barbers and stylists to exchange their used Olivia Garden Barber Shears for a brand-new identical pair, ensuring optimal shear performance over time.

With its superior design, precision craftsmanship and hassle-free maintenance program, this collection is set to become an essential tool for barbers and stylists alike. The OG Barber Shear Collection is available for purchase at www.oliviagarden.com and select Olivia Garden retailers. Be sure to follow the brand on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook for more information.

Excitement! Energy! Education! Community! Growth!

April 5-7, 2025, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

The 102nd America’s Beauty Show 2025 (ABS), held April 5-7, 2025 at the prestigious Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, IL, showcased the beauty industry’s ongoing growth, unity, and innovation. This year’s theme, GROW, was a reflection of the collective spirit of the beauty community, which emphasized professional and personal growth.

With another record-breaking 20,000+ attendees, ABS brought together beauty professionals from across the globe to learn, network, and celebrate the beauty community. The event featured 320 classes, the majority FREE with an ABS ticket. 2025 is a renewal year, and courses offered a diverse range of education from haircare to skincare, barbering, nails, makeup, health and wellness. Over 100 world-class educators shared their global expertise, and 400 exhibitors, including 130 new exhibitors, a Global Nail Competition, and Student Power Hour hosted by Beauty Cast Network.

ABS 2025 highlighted the international nature of the beauty industry, with a strong presence of international exhibitors. The Fruitful Yield Health and Wellness Pavilion showcased 40+ leading brands, offering the latest in wellness products and services, designed to care for those that have dedicated themselves to caring for others.

Evening entertainment added to the excitement, with the famous ABS Global Image Awards. ABS Global Image Awards provided a glamorous celebration of talent and creativity. Winners from around the world were recognized for their submissions and artistry. Live music and dancing with Libido Funk Circus created an unforgettable atmosphere, and the official ABS Sunday Night Party, in collaboration with

Chrystofer Benson’s CBC Productions L.I.V.E. 312, brought a standing-room-only crowd together for an evening of high-energy fun with industry leaders, influencers, and professionals celebrating the best of the community.

“America’s Beauty Show 2025 was a powerful reminder of what’s possible when our beauty community comes together. It was pure joy — experienced by tens of thousands throughout the weekend. I’m so proud of our beauty community, which has made this non-profit event possible for over 102 years. Now more than ever, community is the path to sustainable growth. We all need to take note of the magic that happens when we show up for each other. That’s America’s Beauty Show, and to us, community is everything,”

Commented Frank P. Fulco, Chief Executive Officer of America’s Beauty Show.

ABS 2025 featured stunning presentations by top-tier artists and world class educators, including The Ulta Beauty Pro Team, Tabatha Coffey, Guy Tang, Chrystofer Benson Collective, Sam Villa, Social Art House, Salon Centric, J Ladner, Ted Gibson, Nick Arrojo, A-ROD, Kenny Duncan, Candy Shaw, George Alderete, and many more!

Brands included Amika, Ulta Beauty, CHI by Farouk Systems, BabylissPro, L3V3L 3, Wahl, Ergo Styling Tools, Hairtools, Oliva Garden, Wet Brush, Framar International, Stylecraft Gamma+, Andis, Wahl, FarmHouse Fresh, CIDESCO Section USA, Repechage, Fruitful Yield, Cuccio, Henkel Corporation, Colortrak, Keratin Complex, and DNA Hairtools.

Save the Date!

Mark your calendars for the next America’s Beauty Show, April 18, 19 & 20, 2025, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, IL.

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing is unveiling their next phase of development, welcoming three new members on to their Executive Board. Under the guidance of CEO, Barry Stephens and President, Ashleigh Hodges, the past few years has seen incredible growth for the Fellowship, celebrating their highest membership to date, opening two new Centres of Excellence, and continuing to provide the industry with
educational opportunities for their members in the shape of Hair & Vision events and the new Creative Xchange localised presentations.

• The new Fellowship Executive Board members are:
• Chris Foster, Head of Technology
• Marnie Williams, Head of Further Education & Centres of Excellence
• Marcus Allen, Head of Business

Chris Foster is an internationally recognised, multi-award-winning barber with a career that spans the worlds of grooming, fashion, education, and digital innovation.
Chris was the first to create a dedicated barbering app for barbering education, breaking new ground in how industry knowledge is shared and scaled. He went on to establish his own academy and develop signature digital products designed to help barbers and hair professionals grow their influence and income. Chris is deeply passionate about bringing the tools and mindset of the digital world—such as
automation and AI—into the hair industry, while always preserving its unique creativity and craftsmanship. Through his company, The Profile Guy Digital Agency, he equips professionals with systems that help attract, convert, and retain clients on autopilot—freeing up time so they can focus on what they love most. Chris Foster joins the Fellowship Executive Board as the Head of Technology. His role will explore how technology is shaping the industry and how to keep the Fellowship’s members informed on all things related to technology.

Marcus Allen is an internationally experienced Salon Management Professional and Educator, offering a proven track record of maximising profits and consistent growth
in high end salons and businesses. Marcus co-created Paramount Business, a platform delivering advanced salon business education across the U.S., Canada, UK,
Ireland, and Australia. Upon returning to the UK, he continued to shape the industry, supporting Urban Retreat before moving to The Refinery, a multi-award-winning
men’s grooming brand. Alongside these ventures, Marcus remained active in London, Milan, and Paris Fashion Weeks over the last five years. His focus on innovation and business transformation led him to become General Manager of
Electric Space, a premium co-working salon, photography studio, cinema, and member’s space, redefining how creative professionals work and collaborate. Marcus Allen joins the Fellowship Executive Board as the Head of Business, where he will facilitate the best practices, innovation, new technology, and business tools to hairdressers, salon owners, and educators – strengthening the industry with a
greater understanding and foundation.

Marnie Williams is the Head of Hair and Beauty at West Suffolk College with over 42 years’ experience in the hairdressing industry – starting out as a stylist in the best
Dublin salons, then working for L’Oreal as a Technical Consultant, ultimately becoming an educator in both the private and public sector. West Suffolk College is a
3 Star Fellowship Centre of Excellence, which was awarded for the achievements of their students and the opporunties that the college has created for their students.
The college was awarded ‘outstanding’ in all 4 area of OFSTED measures, including ‘strong’ for the newest skills category. Marnie has worked alongside The Fellowship
for almost 4 years helping to create the Centre of Excellence project, modelling, piloting, re-working, and developing a programme that will recognise excellent education for 16–19-year-olds leaving school and into industry. Marnie joins the Fellowship Executive Board as the Head of Education and Centres of Excellence, aiming to help bridge the gap between education and employment, whilst giving the
next generation the support and preparation for succeeding in to industry.

“We’re delighted to have three new exceptionally talented individuals joining the Fellowship Executive Board. Chris Foster, Marnie Williams and Marcus Allen will bring their expertise and knowledge to the Executive Board to help nurture and develop the skills and talent of Fellowship Members… This Year, the Fellowship’s Executive Board will continue to encourage the growth of those who are new to the industry and those who have worked in the industry for
many years. The Fellowship will be collaborating and bringing the industry together from all over the UK – with a focus on inspiring, educating, and encouraging salon stylists, salon owners, freelance stylists, and barbers”,

Ashleigh Hodges, President of the
Fellowship.

“As the Fellowship moves towards its 80th Anniversary, and the industry continues to shift on its axis, we are delighted to have three new dynamic members joining us on the
Executive Board. The plans we are putting in place today will benefit the whole industry of the future, both creatively and commercially. These new positions will help us gather and analyse business critical data, as well as attracting “Best in
Class” Business, Technology and Education Partners for the direct benefit of our members and the wider hairdressing community”.

The Fellowship for British Hairdressing’s CEO, Barry Stephens,

The winners of the 2025 America’s Beauty Show (ABS) Global Image Awards were announced on Saturday, April 5, 2025, during an electrifying evening at America’s Beauty Show. 

The celebration, held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, brought together salon professionals, beauty industry leaders, and artists for a night filled with excitement and recognition.

The ABS Global Image Awards honor creativity, artistry, and dedication in the beauty industry, recognizing both emerging and seasoned professionals for their talent and innovative work. The competition features multiple categories, showcasing a broad range of beauty disciplines, including hairdressing, makeup artistry, and salon team collaborations. This year’s competition saw a significant increase in participation from international artists, underlining the global reach and impact of the event.

Proudly announcing the 2025 ABS Global Image Awards Winners:

• Barber – Professional: Salvador Oliver – Spain

• Creative Color – Professional: Chrystofer Benson – USA

• Full Concept – Professional: Anthony Negron – USA

• Haircutting – Professional: David Barron – USA

• Team Collaboration – Professional: Rafael Bueno & Manuel Mon – Spain

• Texture Expert – Professional: Lukas Press – USA

• Leo Passage Gold Trophy Award: Chrystofer Benson

The ABS Global Image Awards celebrate more than just talent—they are a reflection of the community spirit that defines America’s Beauty Show. The event was hosted following the Cosmetologists Chicago President’s Party at 6:00PM CST. The evening was filled with live music by Libido Funk Circus and a high-energy celebration that brought beauty professionals together to honor their peers. The event is the signature celebration for America’s Beauty Show.

Each category’s winner received a prestigious award from America’s Beauty Show. The Leo Passage Gold Trophy Award, in honor of the late Pivot Point International founder and Cosmetologists Chicago member, Leo Passage, was also presented to an extraordinary artist who exemplified the highest standard of artistry.

“The ABS Global Image Awards continue to grow each year, elevating artists and professionals from around the world,” said Jessi Marshall, VP of Events and Education. “We are thrilled to celebrate the incredible talent, creativity, and passion that our finalists and winners have contributed to the beauty industry. This event is a true reflection of the growth and collaboration that define our community.”

The ABS Global Image Awards were anonymously judged by an esteemed panel of industry experts, media, educators, and elite artists. More information regarding the 2025 ABS Global Image Awards, visit americasbeautyshow.com and follow ABS on social media.

Two Captain Fawcett products have been announced as Finalists in the Pure Beauty Global Awards 2025. Huzzah!
Both Captain Fawcett’s ‘Booze & Baccy’ Eau De ParfumSignature Series with Ricki Hall and Captain Fawcett’s ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder have been chosen in the Best Fragrance and Best Hair Prep or Styling Product categories respectively. Winners will be selected by world-leading professionals on the Pure Beauty Global Awards international judging panel.
The Pure Beauty Global Awards Winners 2025 will be announced on 8th May 2025 at an exclusive gala event in central London. Captain Fawcett founder, Richard Finney MBE, said-

“To have not one but two products named as Finalists by the renowned Pure Beauty Global Awards team is an incredible achievement for our small but truly mighty team. Following last year’s UK success in both Hair and Fragrance categories, reaching the same heights on the global stage is beyond exciting. Competing against major players, it is hugely rewarding to see Captain Fawcett consistently demonstrate that products made with true craftsmanship and global appeal can stand shoulder to shoulder with the biggest names in the industry. The entire Captain Fawcett crew is absolutely thrilled!”

Captain Fawcett’s ‘Booze & Baccy’ Signature Series Eau De Parfum with Ricki Hall

“The ‘Booze & Baccy’ Signature Series with Ricki Hall was Captain Fawcett’s first collaboration and it has been a phenomenal success. Over ten years, sales have consistently climbed, with the Eau De Parfum in ever-increasing demand. ‘Booze & Baccy’ was crafted to exceptional standards as a tribute to Ricki’s Dad. As such, it’s a story bridging generations, blending contemporary sophistication with a rich, lived-in nostalgia. It celebrates the hard-working, big-hearted men of the 70s and 80s who knew how to graft and still turn up looking sharp. Everyday heroes, one and all!”

Richie Finney

Captain Fawcett’s ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder Captain Fawcett’s ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder is part of the acclaimed ‘Hair Couture’ styling range, created for use in salons, barbershops and also at home.

“Captain Fawcett’s ‘Hair Couture’ range is tested, used and recommended by professionals across the world. Hair Powder is a versatile ‘must-have’ product, but often it has a neutral aroma. Captain Fawcett’s version is imbued with the delectable ‘Expedition Reserve’ fragrance making it just the ticket for refreshing hair on no-shampoo days and scent-layering with companion products in the ‘Expedition Reserve’ range. As such it offers to the contemporary gentleman both convenience and an outstanding sensory experience to boot.”

Richie Finney

The Pure Beauty Global Awards announcement comes following a bumper start to the year with the Captain Fawcett brand picking up prestigious awards month on month, including an MBE for company founder Richie Finney. Watch this space for more news soon!

For more information on Captain Fawcett, please visit www.captainfawcett.com

John Paul Mitchell Systems (JPMS) is expanding
their network of professional artists with the launch of their new Pro Partners program, an ongoing collaboration with prominent influencer hairdressers known for their passion and advocacy of JPMS products.

These skilled professionals will contribute to JPMS’s
educational curriculum and digital strategies, showcasing their artistry in haircutting, styling, and color. Utilizing platforms from social reels to live events, JPMS Pro Partners will share their expertise and exclusive content with fellow hairdressers and beauty enthusiasts while announcing new launches, highlighting favorite products, and providing insider tips and inspiration.

The program will kick off with three well-known hairdresser influencers: Janae Miller (@janaeraquelmiller), Lisa Giles (@lifeoflisag), and Wesley Palmer (@wesdoeshair).

More partners will be added to the roster as the program evolves.

“We are excited to launch the Pro Partners program and continue fostering meaningful collaborations with leading influencers in the hairdressing community. By teaming up with such passionate and skilled professionals, we aim to not only showcase the exceptional quality and versatility of JPMS products but also to empower hairdressers everywhere with top-tier education and inspiration.”

Tania Kingsrud, Executive Vice President of Global Marketing at John Paul Mitchell Systems.

The Pro Partners program will focus on ongoing content creation, complementing the existing Creator Club, which collaborates with a diverse group of hairdressers to produce specific, short-term content for new launches and activations. Together, these programs will broaden the awareness of JPMS brands among hairdressers and beauty aficionados while drawing attention to the high performance of JPMS products.

The new pro influencers join a distinguished team of hairdressers and educators led by Artistic Director of Professional Hair Color Colin Caruso (@colincaruso), celebrity stylist and Artistic Director Paula Peralta (@thepaulaperalta), NAHA Award winner and Artistic
Director Stephen Moody (@hairmoody) and 2x Emmy Award-winning Editorial Director Noogie Thai (@noogiethai). Additionally, newly appointed JPMS Artistic Ambassadors, Orlando Rodriguez (@theorlandosalon), Heather Walter (@heatherjwalter), and Chelsea Shields (@abstracthairartistry) will also play a pivotal role in driving artistry, innovation and education with the professional community.

About the JPMS Pro Partners:

Janae Miller – @janaeraquelmiller, Houston, TX. Specialty: Blonding & balayage on textured
hair.

Janae Miller is a blonding expert with over a decade of experience specializing in blondes and balayage on textured hair. With a keen eye for detail and a deep
understanding of hair chemistry, she creates seamless, dimensional blondes while prioritizing hair health and integrity. Having serviced over 3,000 clients, Janae has
refined her techniques to deliver customized blonding transformations that enhance natural beauty. Her expertise extends to corrective color, high-lift blonding, and advanced balayage techniques, ensuring each client achieves their ideal shade with long-lasting results. Her work has gained widespread recognition, with her techniques frequently shared and admired across social media.

Lisa Giles – @lifeoflisag, Orange County, CA. Specialty: Color corrections.

Lisa Giles is a self-made hairstylist turned CEO with 13 years of experience, fiercely committed to empowering stylists to build their own success from the ground up—just as she did. Through her experience as a professional educator and leading stylist teams
at Fashion Week, Lisa recognized the need for a new way to train stylists. This led her to create Straight Out of Cosmo, the first educational app for hairstylists. In addition to her entrepreneurial ventures, Lisa is a color correction expert, with expertise in cutting, styling and treatments that bring unmatched creativity and precision to every client.

Wesley Palmer – @wesdoeshair, Houston, TX. Specialty: Cutting & Color.

With over 15 years behind the chair and 12 years as an educator, Wesley Palmer has built a career traveling the world as an international educator, leading transformative classes and captivating audiences at the industry’s most prestigious events. Trained at the renowned Paul Mitchell Academy, Wesley’s expertise spans color, cutting, and advanced techniques, making him a versatile and sought-after force in the industry. He has held key artistic and leadership roles with top global hair brands, driving innovation and elevating professional education.

About John Paul Mitchell Systems:
John Paul Mitchell Systems, a top manufacturer of professional hair care products, has been serving the professional beauty industry for 45 years. The company produces salon-quality hair care, hair color and styling tools through a family of brands including Paul Mitchell, Paul Mitchell Tools, Paul Mitchell Professional Hair Color, Neuro, Tea Tree, Awapuhi Wild Ginger, and MITCH. JPMS has a strong commitment to giving back, supporting a wide range of philanthropic causes both domestically and internationally.

For more information, visit us at paulmitchell.com | @paulmitchellpro | @paulmitchell.

22-23 June 2025 – O2 Victoria Warehouse, Manchester

HairCon, the ultimate festival of hair and barbering, returns to Manchester’s iconic O2 Victoria Warehouse on 22-23 June 2025 with a stellar main stage lineup featuring the biggest names in the industry. This year’s stage will come alive with visionary presentations, live demonstrations, and creative collaborations from some of the most innovative minds in hairdressing and barbering. Secure your tickets today to ignite your career, inspire your teams and elevate your hair game at HairCon this June.

An Unmissable Main Stage Experience

The HairCon main stage will be electrified by a powerhouse lineup of global hairdressing icons, barbering titans and an unrivalled collective of brands. The Trevor Sorbie Creative Team will mark a legendary return to the stage in a special collaboration with Keune. Alfaparf Milano Professional with Paul Stafford and the Sanrizz Artistic Team will showcase ‘Evolution’ bringing together two iconic brands dedicated to the pure craft of hairdressing. Sassoon Academy, led by Creative Director Mark Hayes, will break down the revolutionary Vidal Sassoon approach, revealing the complete creative process behind their iconic cuts.

Wella Professional joins forces with James Earnshaw to bring an inspiring fusion of cut, colour, and style, igniting creativity for stylists everywhere. Wahl takes the spotlight with expert-led barbering and men’s grooming innovation, while Revlon Professional’s Artistic Team presents BOLD: UNLIMITED – pushing hair artistry beyond its limits. Danger Jones makes its UK stage debut with a fearless, high-energy colour show, while Blue Tit Education, in collaboration with Leaf Scissors, unveils their unseen 2025 collection ‘Dusk,’ celebrating individuality and London’s underground fashion scene.

L’Oréal Professionnel delivers industry pioneers and award-winners the likes of Frazer Wallace, who will craft an unforgettable performance for his inaugural solo show. A guru in the world of Afro and textured hair, Naomi Brooks will elevate these techniques to create showstopping styles. The Fellowship for British Hairdressing will bring their talented project teams to the stage showcasing the next generation of talent. Josh Lamonaca and Darrel Starkey push the boundaries of Men’s hairdressing in a dynamic showcase of cutting and colouring mastery. With more names still to be revealed, the Main Stage at HairCon presents an unforgettable experience for the hair and barbering professional – bold, boundary-breaking, and unmissable.

The Ultimate Industry Gathering

HairCon 2025 isn’t just a trade show – it’s a movement. From captivating stage performances to hands-on learning opportunities, immersive brand experiences, and exclusive networking events, the weekend will be the epicentre of education, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you’re a seasoned stylist, a budding barber, or a salon owner looking for the latest innovations, this is the must-attend event of the year.

Partnered by

Tickets Now Available

Don’t miss your chance to witness the future of hairdressing and barbering unfold live on stage. Secure your tickets now at www.haircon.co.uk and be part of the most exciting event in the industry.

Tickets also include a one month FREE trial of the Hilton Club membership!

Visit HairCon.co.uk and follow @Hairconshow on social for teasers, schedule announcements, and the latest news in the build up to the event in June.

Helping Medspas & Clinics Save Up To 90% on Documentation Time.

Phorest, the all-in-one software for med spas, aesthetic clinics, and professional hair and beauty businesses, is enhancing the way med spas and aesthetic clinics document client visits with Phorest Dot Phrasing. This new feature enables practitioners to create fast, consistent and
accurate client notes, reducing administrative workload and freeing up valuable time for client care.

For medspas and aesthetic clinics, proper documentation isn’t just a necessity. It is critical for safety, compliance, and professionalism. Yet, finding time to record detailed notes without disrupting the flow of client care is a constant challenge. Órla Phelan, Global Director of Medspa Operations at Phorest, says:

“We designed Phorest’s Dot Phrasing functionality to solve a real challenge for medspas balancing high-quality client care with efficient documentation. By automating repetitive notetaking, this feature ensures practitioners spend less time typing and more time focused on their clients, which we know is
always their top priority.”

With Phorest Dot Phrasing, practitioners can insert pre-set text snippets with just a few keystrokes, eliminating the need to type out commonly used phrases and treatment details
manually. This not only speeds up notetaking but reduces errors and ensures consistency across records. Dot Phrasing has been found to cut documentation time by up to 90%, allowing practitioners to be more present during consultations and focus on delivering exceptional client
experience.

As Phorest continues to expand its capabilities for medspas and clinics, this launch marks another step forward in its commitment to the sector. Thanks to ongoing collaboration with industry professionals, Phorest has developed a growing suite of features tailored specifically to the needs of medical aesthetics businesses, ensuring they have the tools and peace of mind from a smoother workflow while maintaining the highest standards for their clients.

Come experience LOCAL INDUSTRY VIVID EXPERIENCE CHICAGO – the official afterparty of AMERICA’S BEAUTY SHOW: L.I.V.E.312

Come join the EVO team, as well as the Chrystofer Benson Collective, at Joe’s Live for an immersive night of music, creativity, artistry, and major BRAND GIVEAWAYS.

Get ready to experience an unforgettable evening filled with live performances from talented artists from local chicago artists to some of the top artists in our industry.

Entry is FREE for all attendees of ABS, but make sure to REGISTER HERE to secure your spot. The room will fill up fast! Door open at 6:00pm

Following last year’s incredible line up of industry icons and local talent, the 2025 line up for L.I.V.E312 has finally been announced, and it is going to be a night to beat! Featuring names such as Jacob Khan, John Mosely, Yakuza Barber, Jamie Digrazia, and many more!

The L.I.V.E.312 lineup is HERE! Check out some of our incredible artists taking the stage.
The full lineup:
@angiesapanaro
@beautyby_sabs
@c.jimenez24
@cathartic_vanity
@chan.made_
@chelcutz
@cherrythebarber_
@chico.the_barber1
@corey_nt99
@coryhoffmanhair
@drasticartbarbering
@erinhensleycolor
@Esthersbraids
@gretacoston
@hair.and.nina
@hairbylacyeg
@irapopesage
@itsmrjladner
@jacobhkhan
@benmicahwhite
@jamiedigrazia
@justbhair
@karinestyliste
@los_cut_it
@loso_rivera
@mandaziegelman
@mannyblesshands
@mattholderpro
@milkyfadez
@negrito_the_barber
@nujackofallfades
@papiblendzz
@popular_nobody
@presleypoe
@rogermolinahair
@rolandoaqui
@squirrel_cutz94
@styledbymitzy
@successaddict
@tara.tonsorial
@taylormade_46
@thebeautyvvitch
@therealjoeyblades
@twincutz_ceo
@willyhyde
@yakuzabarber

As March is Women’s history month, we have teamed up with Wahl Professional to spotlight some of
the up-and-coming and influential female barbers who have risen up through this male-dominated
industry to make a name for themselves.
This week’s focus: Barber and Wahl Pro Educator, Munny Thapar.

What inspired you to become a barber, and how did your journey in the industry begin?

“At a very young age, I realized I was drawn to art in every form. Being someone who naturally loved teaching and helping others, I combined my artistic and people skills and
discovered that barbering was my true passion. I became obsessed with learning about fades, blade work, styling, and the barbering culture. To further develop my skills, I started cutting hair for friends and family at home. That quickly led to me enrolling in hair school and working in a barbershop, where I built my confidence and honed my craft.”

As a female barber, did you face any unique challenges when starting out? How did you overcome them?

“There were many challenges that came with being a female barber. Being one of the few women in a male-dominated industry, I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. I put in
long hours, but I was often turned down by clients who doubted my ability to perfect their beards or haircuts. It was tough—knowing barbering was my calling but not being trusted to cut hair. Instead of letting that discourage me, I used it as fuel to master every skill that makes barbering special. I focused on perfecting fades, improving my consultation techniques to assure clients they were in the hands of a professional, and refining my craft to the point
where even bystanders would want a cut. Over time, I built both my confidence and skill set to prove that talent has no gender.”

How do you think the industry is evolving, and what more can be done to support aspiring female barbers?

“The industry is definitely moving in the right direction. With social media, we’re able to showcase our skills and build a brand that extends beyond our city—even reaching a
worldwide audience. More brands, like Wahl, are recognizing that barbering isn’t just for men and that there are many incredibly talented women in the industry as well. That said, there’s still more work to do. I believe mentorship programs, creating more spaces for women in barbering events, and ensuring that barbershops foster inclusive environments would make a world of difference in empowering aspiring female barbers.”

What advice would you give to women who want to break into the barbering industry?

“Shoulders back and chin up. That’s something I’ve told myself ever since I started barbering. I would repeat it before stepping on stage for a barber battle, before walking into the shop, and even before starting a cut. Confidence is everything. Knowing that you are brave, strong, and skilled enough to be great at whatever you do will take you far—not just in barbering, but in life. Surround yourself with
barbers who inspire, encourage, and challenge you. Stay connected in the industry, never stop learning, and always push yourself to improve.”

How has your role with Wahl helped shape your experience in the industry? And how has the brand supported you throughout your career?

“Being a Wahl Professional educator has also helped to propel my career. Being associated with
such a respected brand has opened so many doors, from education opportunities to networking with some of the best barbers in the world. Wahl has been incredibly supportive of my journey, providing top-tier tools and platforms to showcase my work. What I love most about Wahl is that they truly value family, innovation, and inclusivity in barbering. Having their support makes me feel like there are no limits to what I can achieve in
this industry.”

Munny’s go-to Tools

“The Wahl tools that are in my day-to-day arsenal are the Cord/Cordless Magic Clip, Vanquish Hairdryer and Hi-Viz Trimmer. These tools have helped me sharpen my skills and perfect my craft.”