Sola Salons, the largest salon studio concept in the country, proudly announces its 2026 Faces of Sola Visionaries, nine beauty and wellness entrepreneurs driving industry change and community impact.

This year’s visionaries include a bridal hairstylist who founded the Sensory Chair Project, a hairstylist and educator who’s been with Sola Salons nearly two decades, and a Google-employee-turned-hairstylist who founded a trauma-informed medical sanctuary that engineers custom, texturally accurate cranial prostheses, ensuring no one has to compromise their cultural identity to heal.

With nearly 100 years of combined industry experience, this year’s diverse class of recipients comes from all walks of life with expertise spanning hair, tattoo, skincare, and more, but they share one common thread: their commitment to excellence both in and outside the salon.

“Every year, this long-standing program gives us the chance to recognize a group of incredible Sola Pros who represent the heart of this community,” said Daryl Hurst, President & COO of Sola Salons. “I love how our professionals always show up with passion, creativity, leadership and a real drive to raise the bar for what it means to build a business independently.”

“This year, we wanted to represent the community of Sola professionals in a more natural and holistic way,” added Tracy Ramos, Sola Director of Pro Community. “Rather than focusing on social media followings, we wanted to showcase people who were engaging in their communities – both within the industry and their local areas. We held video interviews with each applicant, and based our decision on the individuals’ personal stories, and the impact they are making in their communities. That’s why we are calling it the Faces of Sola Visionaries.”

Meet Your 2026 Faces of Sola Visionaries:

• Bridal Hair Abbey Jae | Wilmington, DE
• Barber Alex Sharkey | Cedar Knolls, NJ
• Tattoo Artist Alex Quinn | Warwick, RI
• Color Specialist and Hair Stylist Caroline Kim | Los Angeles, CA
• Esthetician Emily Clark | Chicago, IL
• Hair Stylist Pich Seng | Houston, TX
• Barber Rashleigh Béaton | Euless, TX
• Hair Stylist Rachel Swire | Atlanta, GA
• Hair Stylist and Cranial Prosthesis Victor Scotti, Jr. | Arlington, VA

Each of the 2026 Faces of Sola Visionaries brings a distinct expertise and mastery of their craft, from mentoring and educating the next generation of beauty professionals to leading nonprofit initiatives and driving meaningful change across the industry. This talented team has also participated in some of pop cultures’ biggest moments including the GRAMMYs, New York Fashion Week, the Emmy Awards, Milan Fashion Week and more.

They will have the opportunity to represent Sola Salons at a variety of events, photo shoots and editorial opportunities, while helping inspire the next generation of independent business owners.

“We want people of all walks of life, with all different kinds of stories to be able to picture themselves at Sola, and to picture a future,” Tracy said. “That’s what this is all about, to share those unique stories, and say to the industry, ‘Hey, look at our community of 20,000 professionals and the impact they’re making, not only
within Sola, but in the wider industry.'”

In its 11th year, the Faces of Sola is an annual program that spotlights some of the impressive entrepreneurs who make up the more than 21,000 professionals within the Sola community. The company’s mission is to not only provide spaces for independent professionals, but to support them with the tools, education and technology needed to build thriving businesses. This program gives the Sola community the chance to celebrate the achievements of some of the industry’s brightest. 

To learn more about Sola Salons or how to join the community, visit www.solasalons.com.

Two-day international event brought together elite barbers from 14 countries for education, competition and the debut of new Wahl Vapor CE 

Wahl Professional crowned U.S. competitor Cristian Botello winner of the first-ever Wahl Global Barber Battle following a two-day international event that brought together elite barbers, educators and industry professionals from around the world in Chicago. 

Held May 3 and 4 at the Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture, Wahl Global Stage welcomed competitors from 14 countries to showcase their creativity, technical skill and artistry in front of a live audience during a red-carpet-style championship event. The weekend also featured advanced education sessions, business insights, networking opportunities and the exclusive debut of the new Wahl Vapor CE (Championship Edition) clipper. 

Botello earned the title of Wahl Global Barber of the Year after advancing through head-to-head competitions and representing the United States on the global stage. 

“It’s such an honor to represent the U.S. and accomplish something like this on a global stage,” said Botello. I’ve worked really hard for an opportunity like this, so I’m incredibly grateful.” 

As the winner of the first-ever competition, Botello will now travel to Los Angeles to participate in Wahl Future Makers, the brand’s creative platform focused on mentorship, education and elevating the next generation of talent. 

“I’m most excited about being surrounded by so much talent,” said Botello. “I’m always striving to learn, and I’m looking forward to growing alongside the team.” 

Botello also encouraged aspiring barbers to continue building relationships and investing in themselves throughout their careers. 

“My advice is to network as much as possible, attend events, shake hands and continue believing in yourself,” said Botello. “You never know when an opportunity to compete on a global stage might come your way.” 

Beyond the competition, Global Stage also highlighted the evolving future of barbering culture, from content creation and branding to entrepreneurship, artistry and global collaboration. 

“The energy in the room was unmatched by any industry event I’ve seen in a long time,” said Missy Jacobs, Education Leader for North America at Wahl. “We had attendees from all over the world and at every stage of their careers, from students to seasoned artists and educators, all connected by the same passion for creativity, growth and the industry itself.” 

Jacobs said one of the biggest takeaways from the weekend was the trust artists continue to place in Wahl tools at the highest levels of performance, whether competing on stage, creating content under pressure or working behind the scenes in real-time environments where consistency, precision, and reliability matter most. She also noted the growing influence of individuality and global culture throughout the industry, both on stage and behind the scenes at the event. 

In addition to the competition, attendees had the opportunity to experience the debut of the Vapor CE, a limited-edition professional clipper inspired by the energy of global competition and designed for precision, control and performance. Limited quantities of the new tool were made available for purchase at the event. 

As the UK’s leading and most sustainable premium professional scissor brand, Leaf Scissors is delighted to announce the launch of the NEW Kit Roll by Leaf!

Designed for hairdressers and barbers who take pride in their craft and how they carry it, this ultra stylish Kit Roll holds multiple scissors with dedicated comb storage to keep your full setup organized, protected, and ready for work!

Available in two stunning colors — the quintessentially Leaf ‘Forest Green’ or ‘Midnight’ clean black — Kit Roll by Leaf is durable and stylish with a structured design that features a secure fastener and convenient hand strap. Clean, minimal and built to last, this Kit Roll has a premium feel that reflects the same thinking behind Leaf tools — simple, functional, and crafted to elevate your everyday.

Whether you’re behind the chair, working on set, creating content, or on the move, Kit Roll by Leaf keeps your tools exactly where they should be. No more digging through your bag. No more loose tools. No more compromise!

Online now at just £39.99, Kit Roll by Leaf is also available through Leaf’s nationwide distributor network.

EXO-GROW by DermapenWorld has officially concluded its highly anticipated RE:GEN Roadshow: The Future of Skin & Hair, leaving a powerful mark across the United States following an electrifying multi-city tour that united the professional hair, beauty, barbering, aesthetics and medical industries like never before.

Spanning key cities including Chicago, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Dallas and Miami, the RE:GEN Roadshow delivered a series of sold-out events, drawing close to 1,000 salon and clinic professionals nationwide. Hosted in stunning venues and designed as immersive evening experiences, each stop combined cutting-edge education, elevated networking and an undeniable sense of industry momentum. This was more than a roadshow — it was a statement: the future of hair and skin is regenerative, and the industry is moving forward together.

A Stage of Global Industry Powerhouses

Leading the tour was global industry icon Tracey Hughes, Hall of Fame Hairstylist and Global General Manager for EXO-GROW, delivering a compelling vision for the future of scalp health, hair restoration and professional evolution.

She was joined by an exceptional lineup of global experts and industry leaders, including:

• Corri Marshall: Co-Founder of DermapenWorld and product innovator
• Andrew Hansford: Trichologist and global educator in aesthetics & hair restoration
• Eden Sassoon: Celebrity TV star and daughter of Vidal Sassoon
• Candy Shaw: Renowned hair educator and industry disruptor
• Leysa Carrillo: Textured hair expert and digital influencer
• Bonnie Conte: Business strategist and salon growth expert
• John Simpson: Industry educator and visionary
• Christopher Dove: Editorial stylist and creative force
• Dr. Gregory Zengo: Medical regeneration expert
• Rita Perna Allor: Hair loss education specialist
• Jenna Jeffries: Clinical aesthetics trainer
• Zachary Goldberg: Customer experience specialist

Where Industries Collaborate

One of the defining strengths of the RE:GEN Roadshow was its ability to bring together every corner of the professional industry under one roof. Hairdressers, barbers, aesthetic practitioners, clinic owners and medical professionals came together as one unified community breaking down traditional silos and opening the door to new collaboration, new revenue streams and a more holistic approach to client care.

This convergence signals a clear shift: the future belongs to salon professionals who understand the full ecosystem of skin, scalp and the science of hair loss. True collaboration was further amplified through industry partners including Ergo Styling Tools, Showpony Hair Extensions, Phorest Software, FASTFOILS, and DP Derm, all aligning alongside EXO-GROW to support the movement.

Education That Lands

Attendees didn’t just show up they walked away transformed. Across every city, feedback echoed the same sentiment: next-level education, real clinical insight, and immediately actionable strategies.

Key takeaways included:

• Practical, client-ready solutions for thinning hair and hair loss
• A deeper understanding of scalp-first hair growth and regenerative science
• New pathways to business growth within the rapidly expanding hair restoration category
• Clear insight into Exosome technology and its performance-driven results
• Elevated consultation techniques rooted in empathy and client psychology

Beyond the education, the experience delivered on every level with high-energy rooms, great food and drinks, meaningful networking, and a genuine sense of belonging. From curated goodie bags valued at over $300 to vibrant, connection-driven environments, every detail was designed to leave a lasting impression.

A Movement, Not a Moment

“This was never just about education — it was about shifting the mindset of an entire industry,” said Tracey Hughes. “We’ve brought science, business and creativity together in a way that empowers salon professionals to think differently, act differently, and ultimately deliver better results for their clients.”

What’s Next

Following successful tours across Australia, the UK and now the USA, the momentum behind EXO-GROW continues to accelerate globally. Now available in 107 countries, EXO-GROW is rapidly gaining traction for one simple reason: results.

This is performance-driven technology delivering visible, confidence-restoring outcomes fuelling strong adoption across clinics and salons, repeat purchase behavior and powerful word-of-mouth growth.

With demand continuing to build, DermapenWorld is set to expand its education platform further and continuing to lead the global conversation around hair loss, scalp health and regenerative treatment innovation.

Moroccanoil is expanding into the men’s grooming space with the launch of its new Sculpting Pomade, now available on Moroccanoil.com.

While the brand has long-resonated across a unisex audience, this move reflects a broader shift in male consumer behavior, with men becoming more engaged and intentional about grooming. The Sculpting Pomade was developed to meet demand for products that deliver structure and definition with flexible, touchable hold. The water-based formula is lightweight, reworkable, and can be easily washed out, aligning with what both stylists and consumers are prioritizing today.

Positioned as part of Moroccanoil’s broader styling portfolio, the launch takes an inclusive approach while creating a clear entry point for male consumers. It also marks a strategic step in using styling to drive discovery, reach new audiences, and build long-term engagement within a growing category.

Moroccanoil Sculpting Pomade 

Sculpting Pomade is a classic, water-based formula infused with nourishing argan oil to deliver strong, all-day hold with a sleek, high-shine finish. Designed to create polished, timeless styles. from voluminous modern mullets and sharp side parts to trending slicked-backs on short or long hair — it provides structure without stiffness. The flexible, residue-free formula washes out effortlessly, and over 90% of consumers surveyed agree it rinses clean while maintaining lasting hold*.  Fragranced with the signature Moroccanoil scent, including a blend of spicy amber and sweet florals.

Madison College will launch a new fast-track barbering program this fall, offering students an affordable path into a growing industry.

Enrollment is now open for the Barber Technical Diploma program, which begins Aug. 31.

Students can complete the full-time program in two semesters, gaining classroom learning and hands-on training in local barbershops and salons.

Demand for barbers continues to grow. According to Lightcast labor market data, barbering jobs in the Madison College district are projected to increase by 10.1% between 2025 and 2030, outpacing the national growth rate of 6.7%.

“Barbering is a booming industry in Wisconsin with many opportunities for new graduates,” said Jeff “JP” Patterson, Madison College Barber Program Director and barbershop owner. “A barbering career is promising for individuals ready to learn and put in the time to master the trade.”

The program reflects the college’s commitment to workforce development by partnering with local employers to create training that matches job needs.

“We are excited to grow this program and support students as they pursue meaningful, in-demand careers in barbering,” said Madison College Provost Dr. Beth Giles. 

Students in the 26-credit program will learn hair cutting and styling techniques, shaving and beard design, skincare and chemical services. The curriculum also emphasizes business and time management skills essential for success in the industry.

Tuition for the one-year program is $4,422 plus additional costs, lower than many private programs. Financial aid is also available for eligible students.

Madison College is one of three technical schools in the state that offer a full-time barbering program. In addition to the diploma, Madison College also offers a two-year earn while you learn barber apprenticeship program.

The Barber Technical Diploma Program meets Wisconsin licensure requirements following the state’s separation of barbering and cosmetology licensing, helping expand professional opportunities for graduates.

Graduates who earn licensure can pursue careers as barbers, grooming specialists, stylists and shaving experts, with opportunities to advance into business ownership, management, and other specialized services.

The application deadline is Aug. 15, 2026.

Learn more about Madison College’s new Barber Technical Diploma program.

Industry leader, educator, and advocate Rodrick Samuels has been officially appointed to the Michigan Board of Barber Examiners by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. His term will run through September 30, 2029, representing licensed barbers across the state of Michigan.

Samuels, Co-Founder and Director of Education at Hair Lab Detroit Barber School, brings a nationally recognized voice in barber education, workforce development, and industry standards to the Board. His appointment reflects a continued commitment to strengthening licensure, advancing educational quality, and protecting the integrity of the barbering profession.

“This isn’t just a seat at the table—it’s a responsibility to elevate the standard,” said Samuels. “Barbering changed my life, and I’m committed to ensuring the next generation of professionals enters this industry prepared, licensed, and built to lead.”

With over a decade of experience shaping barber education, Samuels has been at the forefront of modernizing curriculum, advocating for student success, and bridging the gap between classroom training and real-world application. Under his leadership, Hair Lab Detroit has become known for its culture-driven approach, producing highly skilled, business-minded professionals.

Samuels is also a Professional Beauty Association (PBA) Educator of the Year, a former American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) Board Member, and an active contributor to national conversations surrounding licensure and education standards.

His appointment comes at a pivotal time for the industry, as states nationwide evaluate regulatory frameworks, workforce readiness, and pathways into licensed professions.

“We have to protect what we’ve built while evolving how we educate,” Samuels added. “This role allows me to advocate not just for barbers, but for the future of the entire industry.”

As a member of the Michigan Board of Barber Examiners, Samuels will help oversee licensing standards, examinations, and regulatory policies that impact thousands of professionals statewide.

The latest issue of BarberEVO is OUT NOW!

Grab your copy here or subscribe for the full year here.

This edition is a true celebration of versatility – not just in technique, but in mindset. Barbering has never been a one-lane industry, and the features in this issue highlight just how dynamic the modern barber has become.

BarberEVO issue 49 is out now!  

On the Cover: Rolda  

At the heart of this issue, we’re honored to feature Rolda on the cover – an iconic brand that has made waves across multiple generations. Their journey is a powerful reminder of how legacy, innovation and global vision can come together to shape not just a brand, but an entire movement within barbering.  

In the Chair with El Bori Barber  

We also sit down In the Chair with El Bori Barber, whose story, skill and perspective capture the passion that continues to drive the craft forward. It’s voices like his that keep the culture authentic while inspiring the next wave of talent.  

Traditional V Modern  

Our Traditional v Modern feature explores the ever-evolving spectrum of barbering – from old-school barbershops rooted in heritage to contemporary spaces redefining education, experience and identity. It’s a conversation that sits at the core of where our industry is right now.  

Interiors  

The theme of Traditional carries on into our Interiors feature with an in-depth look at the Gentleman’s Den Barbershop in California. We also look at how Collin’s chairs have become an international sensation in the oldest barbering business around the world, and we touch base in London to see how OS Lifestyle approach sustainability.  

Business  

In our Business feature, we also take a closer look at sustainability, highlighting barbershops and practices that are making conscious efforts to reduce their environmental impact – an increasingly important topic for the future of our industry.  

And for those looking to grow their business, we dive into marketing automation and how streamlining your strategy can create more consistency, efficiency and impact.  

As always, this issue is about informing, inspiring and pushing boundaries.

InkShopGuard, an insurance provider specializing in coverage for tattoo artists and studio owners, has expanded its offerings to include insurance for barbers and barbershops nationwide. We spoke to Nate Szana, Vice President of Specialty Programs at InkShopGuard, about the latest expansion.  

Running a successful barbershop takes more than talent behind the chair. From managing staff and booth renters to maintaining equipment and serving clients safely, today’s shop owners face a wide range of business responsibilities — and insurance plays a major role in protecting everything they’ve built.

According to Nate, insurance needs can vary significantly depending on how a shop is structured. Some barbershops require every independent barber to carry their own policy and list the shop owner as an additional insured. While that setup can work, it often creates extra administrative work and leaves room for coverage gaps if policies lapse or certificates are not kept up to date.

For many growing shops, a single policy that includes independent barbers can be a more practical solution. This approach simplifies management, creates more consistent protection across the business, and can often lower the overall cost per barber — especially when insurance expenses are incorporated into booth rent.

The benefits become even more important for owners operating multiple locations. Having consistent coverage across several shops can make it easier to scale while still allowing flexibility for different staffing models, services, and day-to-day operations at each location. Instead of juggling separate policies and requirements, owners can focus on growing the business with confidence that their coverage is aligned across the board.

“Insurance should be viewed as part of a barber’s professional toolkit, alongside training, equipment, and branding,” Nate explained. “When it’s treated as a checkbox expense, it often fails the moment something goes wrong. When it’s treated as a business tool, it can help protect income, reputation, and long-term growth.”

At the end of the day, the right insurance coverage allows barbers and shop owners to focus on what matters most: delivering great service and building lasting relationships with clients. One unexpected accident, injury, or claim does not have to derail years of hard work when the proper protection is already in place.

Ready to protect your shop, your team, and your future? Learn more about coverage options here: https://go.inkshopguard.com/l/1008742/2026-01-20/544kjy

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) has hailed its Respect Live event as a major success, bringing together salon owners, educators, industry leaders, stakeholders and media to explore the latest findings from its State of the Sector survey, and crucially, what happens next. Held as a key moment in the industry calendar, Respect Live created a powerful platform for open discussion around the current challenges, opportunities and future direction of the UK hair and beauty sector. 

Sector Taking Stock- and Taking Action

At the heart of the event was the unveiling of the latest State of the Sector results, offering a clear, data-led picture of where the industry stands today. From business sustainability and workforce challenges to education and growth, the findings sparked honest and solutions-focused conversations across the room. 

Crucially, these quarterly survey results are not only vital to the industry, they are also requested by government, making them an important tool in informing policy and decision-making at the highest level. By taking part, businesses directly contribute to shaping how the sector is understood, supported and represented nationally. 

A standout panel of respected voices shared real-world insight and practical perspectives, including Emma Curd of Mattaki Scissors, Darran Gould, founder/director Gould Barbers; Charles Whiston of CW Whiston salon; Christopher Moody, educator and salon owner: Wendy Cummins, chair of Hair Professional Apprenticeship Steering Group and salon owner; Diane Hey, Founder & CEO, Armonia Training Academy: Lesley Wilks, aesthetician and NHBF consultant; Christian Vincent of Worknest and Meg Piper, session stylist and owner of Solstice Hair. 

Together, they explored not only the realities facing businesses today, but also the collective responsibility, and opportunity, to shape a stronger, more resilient future. 

The event made clear that meaningful representation starts with listening. The NHBF exists to champion its members, ensuring their challenges, priorities and ambitions are heard where it matters most. The strength and impact of that representation is directly shaped by the voices within the industry. 

The NHBF stated: “The more our members engage, share their views, and take part in decisions, the stronger and more accurate our representation becomes whether that’s influencing government, shaping support, or driving the future direction of the sectors.” 

With over 84 years of expertise representing the UK’s hair and beauty sector, the NHBF has built its reputation on one enduring principle: that the strongest voice for this sector is a collective one. That commitment to listening, representing and supporting members remains as central today as it has ever been.

 The forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM, Monday 6 July 2026) and Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM, 18 May 2026) will ensure members’ voices remain at the core of the NHBF and inform the organisation’s future direction.