For over a century, Wahl Professional has stood as the pinnacle of excellence in barbering, styling and grooming tools, leading the industry with innovation and quality. Today, the brand proudly debuts its ‘Make it With Wahl‘ platform, celebrating the global evolution of the Wahl Professional brand to empower the next generation of future makers.  

“When my great-grandfather, Leo Wahl, invented the first electric clipper, he could hardly imagine the profound influence and impact that he would later have on the culture and craftsmanship of countless professionals who would go on to forge successful careers, build communities, and foster connections, all with a Wahl tool in hand,” said Lance Wahl, Global SVP of Sales & Marketing for Wahl Professional. “Through education and the provision of high-quality products, our family-brand has remained steadfast in our commitment to empowering more professionals to realize their dreams. The possibilities are endless when you ‘Make it With Wahl’ and this is our open invitation to all professionals, at any stage of their career, to become part of the Wahl family.” 

The ‘Make it with Wahl‘ campaign is not just a launch; it’s the genesis of a broader platform, to showcase the fervor and connection shared between industry professionals and Wahl. Since its inception, Wahl Professional has become more than just a provider of exceptional products. The brand has played a pivotal role in cultivating a vibrant barbering community, empowered artists to achieve their dreams, and catalyzed transformation in countless lives, both in and beyond the barber chair. The introduction of ‘Make it with Wahl‘ underscores that with a Wahl tool, anything becomes achievable. 

At the core of Wahl Professional’s brand evolution lies a deep-seated belief in the power of connection in every haircut created. It is grounded in the understanding that hair isn’t just hair—it’s a conduit that links us to ourselves and the world around us. ‘Make it with Wahl’ is the brand’s commitment to ushering in another century of trusted excellence, equipping professionals with the tools to accomplish remarkable feats, shape culture, change lives, and foster meaningful careers. 

“Our brand evolution embodies humility, intentionality, and a deep understanding of people’s needs,” stated Garrett McGuire, Global Brand Director. “It ignites connections, fosters growth, fearlessly propels individuals forward, and fuels the future of professionals worldwide.” 

Wahl Professional invites all industry professionals to embark on this transformative journey—a journey defined by quality, passion, and the enduring bonds forged through Wahl.  

For more information on Wahl Professional and the ‘Make it With Wahl’ platform, please visit www.WahlPro.com.  

Set to take the male grooming world by storm, Uppercut Deluxe have released the brand-new product in their latest range, Control Cream.

With its barely-there hold, Control Cream is ideal for frizz control, curl control and everything in between. From straight to curly hair, this lightweight styling cream is designed to smooth down frizz or enhance curls in natural styles.

Control Cream adds a nice, light hold. To be used every day to give structure and shape, whilst controlling frizz. The all-rounder for guys who want that light enhancement and a healthy, natural finish.

If you don’t want to take our words for it, listen to the reviews from a selection of experts:

Steve Purcell | Uppercut Deluxe Founder: “I felt there was a hole in the men’s grooming market for guys who just want a lightweight styling cream. Something that gives the hair structure and shape without bogging it down. Not too much control, and not too little. Something that was just right.”

Tim Hutton | Hutto’s Barbershop, Australia: “Control Cream is great for the guys that want the no-fuss look while still maintaining an all-natural hold that carries them throughout the day.”

Queen Rockabilly | Tough Tiger Barbershop, Canada: “My clients who need volume LOVE this product! Helps the hair look fuller and thicker.”

Ben Boyer | Le Coupeur, France: “It’s the product my customers have been asking for, plugging a gap in the styling world.”

Asada Yoshiharu | Barbers Point, Japan: “It’s great for frizz reduction. Taking the edge off of unruly hair, yet an ideal curl enhancer to makes curls pop without weighing them down like traditional leave-in moisturisers.”

Jimmy Morrison | Jimmy’s Barbershop, Australia: “Control Cream is the Swiss Army Knife of styling. You need volume? It has it! You want texture? It’s for you! Feeling frizzy? Say no more. Need hold, yet want the look of no product in your hair then Control Cream is for you.”

Mike Conti | Pugsly’s Barbershop, USA: “It brings a new, refreshing approach to styling curls. Control Cream goes to the next level when you add some heat from the blow dryer. This simple action activates the formula and makes styling fun.”

Uppercut Deluxe Control Cream is available from uk.uppercutdeluxe.com, retailing at £15.

Denman Creative Holly Rudge takes BarberEVO readers through her process for moving clients throughout their hair journey.

As a professional stylist you are the very best person to guide your customers through their hair journey, so what’s the best way to keep them on track and out of a rut? Denman Creative and independent hair stylist Holly Rudge shares her experience and top tips.

Questions, questions, questions.

I start with an open question, always. ‘What can I do for you today?’ The responses are SO varied, but they always reveal their past hair story which allows me to start a new one. Just letting the client talk is so important. There’s usually a story about how they got in this position with their hair, perhaps they’ve had the same stylist for years who no longer listens or perhaps they are just struggling to find anyone who does what they want. I ask people to forget about any preconceptions they have and simply tell me what their dream hair would be. Then we work back from there until we find a style I’m confident we can achieve, and they will be able to maintain. 

Keep the journey moving but be gentle.

Often clients are tired of their style but have no idea what to do next. It’s my job to help them move through that journey. I ask them to start by making a Pinterest board or save photos of celebrities/people they know with hair they like. Usually, the client doesn’t realise that all of those styles will have a similar vibe…a fringe shape or layer pattern. 

I then go through various (sometimes extreme) options to gauge a response. Sometimes just having the conversation about options is enough as people want to know that you’ve thought about them and shared your ideas and opinions. I’m always suggesting new ways to switch up a hairstyle. Even if a client just wants a tidy up, I ask if there was anything they found annoying about the previous cut. People are more likely to feel confident about being potentially negative if you turn it into constructive conversation! If the response is a yes, then I’m ready with new ideas to help! I’ve had occasions where I’ve made suggestions in the consultation which have been rejected but after a nice relaxing shampoo where a person is left with their own thoughts they come back and request my suggestion after all. You just need to build that trust and not be too pushy. 

Counsel carefully…

If a customer asks for a drastic and dramatic change in their look. I try to establish what has brought on the need for change and how long a person has been planning to do it. You can tell a lot by the confidence someone has and the preparation before the appointment, if they’ve saved images and know their own hair or have had similar in the past then I’m happy to proceed. However, if I can sense any hesitancy, I dig a little deeper and perhaps try to convince a more softly, softly approach. 

…but don’t hold back.

Give your opinion! I’ve worked with stylists who are afraid to give their opinion for fear of getting blamed if the outcome isn’t well received. Be brave and trust yourself to give advice. As stylists we know what works and what doesn’t, so trust your knowledge!

V’s Barbershops, synonymous with the authentic barbershop experience since their establishment in 1999, are proud to announce the addition of prestigious UK grooming brand Captain Fawcett Ltd to their repertoire.

Captain Fawcett Ltd is a Manufacturer and Purveyor of a simply delectable range of ‘First Class Gentlemen’s Grooming Requisites’. The multi-award-winning product ranges are proudly ‘Made in the UK’ and favored by top-tier barbers and hair stylists throughout the world.

Founded by Jim Valenzuela (Mr V) in homage to cherished boyhood memories at Nick’s Barbershop, V’s Barbershops are acclaimed across the US for their time-honored sense of community and impeccable service.

Now, bolstering their mutual commitment to quality and tradition, V’s Barbershops introduce Captain Fawcett, renowned for heritage, craftsmanship and commitment to excellence. This partnership marks a significant milestone for both brands, as they continue to redefine the barbershop experience, fostering memorable moments for men and their sons across the nation.

Mr. V (Jim Valenzuela) said: “Partnering with Captain Fawcett to be their exclusive US retail launchpad is an exciting moment for V’s Barbershop. Their uncompromising quality, refined aesthetic, and elite reputation make them a standout in the men’s grooming space.

“This is something the American market hasn’t seen before, and we’re honored to be the ones to introduce it.”

Richie Finney, founder of Captain Fawcett, said: “I am absolutely delighted our brand has found its first American home with V’s Barbershop, marking what promises to be the beginning of an inspiring partnership.

“Mr V shares my own love for the cherished traditions of classic barbershops, places where time slows down, stories unfold and memories are not just made, but woven into the very fabric of our lives, honoring the timeless bonds uniting us across generations.”

Inspired by the many aromatic oils collected upon his voyages around the globe, Captain Fawcett offers a comprehensive range of contemporary male-specific products, infused with elegant fragrance and perfect for scent layering.

Masterminded at a magnificent Gentleman’s Emporium in King’s Lynn, Norfolk, UK, Captain Fawcett pays tribute to the ageless spirit of adventure which lives on in the hearts and minds of gentlemen everywhere.

Captain Fawcett is a key Brand Partner of The Fellowship for British Hairdressing’s ‘Project MEN’, providing products to global industry experts as they mentor the new generation of barbers and hairdressers at prestigious events throughout the year.

Leading barbering tool manufacturer and professional education, Andis® Company, has just unveiled its new limited-edition Galaxy colourway.

Meant to capture the infinite possibilities when working with Andis® tools, the sleek, iridescent look of this new collection captures the hearts of professionals whose sights are set on the stars.

Featuring some of Andis® Company’s most popular tools, the Galaxy collection includes the cord/cordless Slimline Pro Trimmer and the Envy Li Adjustable Blade Clipper, which are available individually and as a combo kit.

“Fans of the Envy Li Clipper and Slimline Pro Trimmer will love this exciting new colourway!” said Angie Perino, Andis’ Global Education Manager. “These popular tools are lightweight, cordless and comfortable for professional all-day use, but pack the power and precision to create any style.”

The Slimline Pro Trimmer features a balanced, ergonomic shape for outlining, designing and dry shaving. Sleek and lightweight, the cord/cordless design allows for greater flexibility with zero downtime. Built with a powerful motor for increased speed and power, the lithium-ion battery delivers up to 2 hours of runtime. Equipped with a close-cutting, precision T-blade, the Galaxy edition Slimline Pro Trimmer embodies utility and style.

The Envy Li Clipper is also a mainstay for professionals worldwide due to its taper blade that adjusts from size 000 to size 1 – perfect for creating fade and taper styles.

Exceptionally versatile, the Envy Li features a high-speed, rotary motor but is extremely lightweight and balanced for comfort behind the chair. This clipper is also equipped with a lithium-ion battery, delivering over 2 hours of nonstop runtime. The cord/cordless Envy Li shines in its new Galaxy colourway.

The limited-edition Galaxy tools feature a 1-year warranty and are available at authorised Andis® dealers and andis.com. In the UK, this stunning colourway can be purchased here.

To learn more about Andis Company, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.

Norfolk-based gentleman’s grooming Captain Fawcett has announced that their new product has been awarded as a ‘Men’s Grooming Products & Accessories’ Finalist at Cosmoprof Bologna.

The global lifestyle brand has been acclaimed for its  ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder. The Cosmoprof & Cosmopack Awards in partnership with BEAUTYSTREAMS celebrate excellence in the global cosmetics industry and with over 700 entries, from across the globe, the contest is extremely competitive, with just 3 finalists per category. 

Products are independently judged on category criteria including Innovation, Creativity, Packaging & Design, Product Benefits, Ethics and User Experience.

Captain Fawcett’s new ‘Expedition Reserve’ Matt Styling and Volumising Hair Powder is the latest addition to the highly acclaimed ‘Hair Couture’ collection, created for both professional barbershops, salons, and luxury styling at home.

Captain Fawcett founder Richie Finney was delighted to join fellow global industry leaders at the The Grande Soirée Cosmoprof & Cosmopack Awards Ceremony in Bologna, Italy on Friday 22 March. 

He attended the glittering occasion with Valentino Bergamini, CEO and Founder of Captain Fawcett’s highly esteemed Italian distributor Bottega della Barba Srl. 

Richie said: “It is a huge honour for Captain Fawcett to be recognised as being amongst world leaders in the beauty and grooming industry. Being named as a Finalist amid such impressive competition from all across the world is testament to the ambition and hard work of the whole team, not least our simply magnificent distributors who do so much to support the Captain Fawcett brand in their home territories. 

“Captain Fawcett thanks all colleagues and friends for each playing their hugely appreciated parts as we continue to forge ahead in 2024!”

In this industry, Eric Way Lovemore needs no introduction following his stellar career in the hair world. Now, the world-class barber has added another accolade to his belt: Artero’s UK and Northern Ireland Brand Manager.

On top of this new role, he will continue his work as the UK ambassador and global educator role for Artero. Telling us about his new venture, Eric said: “As the Brand Manager, I will grow the brand within my countries, introducing Artero to distributors, academies, barbershop, hairdressing salons, and end users. Artero has laid its foundations securely in the marketplace but now it’s time for the brand to start resonating with everyone and experience this well priced, high quality diverse product range that Artero has to offer.

“Now it will be easier for the brand to have a face in the country for buyers to easily communicate with and for me to bring more opportunities to the brand which is far easier than Artero in Spain trying to do it.”

He added: “When I was introduced to Artero three years ago, I immediately fell in love with the ethos of the brand and the quality of all the products. I realised that the brand was at its infant stages in the UK and Northern Ireland but was a brand that had been established for more than a hundred years and is still run by the same family from the very beginning.

“I wanted to be part of the brands journey and felt that with my passion for the industry I could grow with the brand and help being part of its unprecedented success globally.”

Generation Barber is set to return to Bournemouth on May 20th, 2024. Following the success of the 2023 show, Generation Barber will return bigger and better than before.

Aimed specifically for barbering students, Generation Barber, sponsored by Denman International brings together barbers, students and educators from across the UK for a day filled with education, inspiration and networking.

With education from leading barbering educators and influencers including the Great British Barbering Academy Team, Afro Hair Champion Grim Barber, Andis UK Education Team Lead, Baldy, and the organiser himself, Mike Taylor, this year’s schedule has it all.

For the first time, Generation Barber will also include demonstrations from barbers who started their own businesses in their 20’s. Dubbed the ‘Young Guns’, this performance is the perfect opportunity to inspire the new generation of barbers into thinking not only about their practical skills but also the whole package of what it takes to be a successful barber.

Alongside the incredible line-up, Generation Barber also allows students and barbers to get up close and personal with leading professionals in the Help and Advice Centres, situated in the main hall throughout the day. From advice on how to maintain your clippers to help on how to get that crispy fade, if you have any specific questions that need a more 1:2:1 response, the educators will be there throughout the day to help.

Due to the huge success from last year the Student Competition will also be returning. This is an incredible opportunity for learners currently working towards a formally accredited level 2 or 3 qualification to have a platform to showcase their skills.

There are two categories to choose from; either Classic or Creative, and the first round is judged by photographic entry. Get through to the final and you will see your work showcased around the Generation Barber Hall and on the big screen on stage. However, there can only be one lucky winner from each category who will go on to win a selection of goodies from Generation Barber Student Competition sponsor, Denman International and show supporter, Andis.

Award-winning barber, Yasemin Hassan has announced the launch of Talking Textures. A groundbreaking exhibition which set to illuminate London’s Ugly Duck Venue with its launch on April 12th, 2024. Curated by Yasemin Hassan and captured through the lens of photographer Yeliz Zaifoglu, the photo series dives deep into the intricate relationship between beauty, cultural identity, and the resilient nature of hair, especially within the Southwest Asian & North African (SWANA) communities.

Talking Textures is more than just an exhibition; it’s a movement. Spanning across a series of 26 compelling photographs, a poignant short video, and an engaging panel discussion, the project aims to celebrate, educate, and redefine the cultural significance of textured hair. This initiative seeks to bring to light the challenges, beauty rituals, and the profound connection between hair and cultural identity in SWANA regions.

Yasemin Hassan, an award-winning hairdresser, has emerged as a pivotal figure for individuals with textured hair in London, particularly within the SWANA community. Her extensive experience on high-end fashion shoots and London Fashion Week 2023, coupled with personal conversations within her community, inspired the creation of Talking Textures. Yasemin’s mission is to decolonize perceptions of hair and address the underrepresentation of SWANA identities in the hair industry.

Working closely with Dania Arafeh, founder of 3EIB – a SWANA fashion platform reclaiming the Arabic word 3Eib, meaning ‘shame’ – this project is a reaction to the underlying shame that SWANA individuals often experience from others within their own cultures, as well as what we are taught in the mainstream media about beauty.

The exhibition runs from 12th April at Ugly Duck London, 49 Tanner St, London SE1 3PL.

For more information please visit www.instagram.com/talking_textures_

A study undertaken by RICS last year showed that 4 in 10 men in the UK won’t speak to their families, friends or health professionals if they are struggling with mental health, and shockingly, 75% of suicides in the UK are male.

Local business owner Christie Turner, owner of CT Barbering, has firsthand experience of the impact of untreated men’s mental health issues, having witnessed several male friends and family members’ struggle. Through the therapeutic nature of her conversations with clients, that can range from humorous and uplifting to deep and meaningful, she’s been able to help them through some difficult and challenging times and this motivated her to go further in addressing the stigma surrounding men’s mental wellbeing.

Drawing from her diverse experience in various barber shops, Christie recognises how the traditional barber environment can affect men’s mental health due to the societal attitudes towards male self-care and masculinity. She believes that nurturing the link between looking good and feeling good can make a positive difference.

With over a decade of experience, the business owner appreciates the significant role barbers play as regular touch points in men’s lives, offering a support system outside of family, friends and healthcare providers. Due to the close contact service and regularity of appointments (males in the UK visit a barber every 2.5 weeks on averageiv) she believes this is what helps to build that unique connection.

Utilising mental health mirror decals that encourage men to open up, a friendly and welcoming atmosphere and a range of wellness services including stress-relieving facials tailored to male skin types, the barber and qualified facialist hopes to identify early signs of struggle among her clients, offering them crucial support within the community.

Christie said: ‘The statistics around men’s mental health are devastating and highlight the urgent need for support. As a barber, I’m uniquely positioned in the community and have an opportunity to support them. I aspire to create an environment where men feel safe to express their feelings and share what’s going on in their lives, while promoting the importance of self-care through a range of accessible grooming and wellness services. The mental health support available through the NHS isn’t enough to tackle the epidemic of male suicide rates so I’m taking action to support as many men in my community as I can. Hopefully I can inspire others to do the same.’

You can find Christie at My T Sharp on Newnham Avenue or via her Instagram.