For this look, keep the taper low and tight while leaving extra weight through the front hairline to create a crisp, structured line-up. The clean blend around the sides and neckline keeps the cut sharp, while the fuller textured top allows the natural curls to remain the focal point. Leaving more length through the fringe area helps enhance the overall shape, frame the face, and gives the cut a more modern, fashion-led finish.
The key to this style is working with the client’s natural texture rather than trying to over-style it. The curls should look controlled, defined and soft with natural movement throughout the top. Keeping the taper low prevents the fade from overpowering the shape and creates a better balance between the tight sides and the textured length on top.
For styling, use a moisturising curl cream to hydrate and define the curl pattern, then finish with a small amount of matte paste for added texture and hold without creating shine. Apply the products through damp hair, focusing the curl cream through the mid-lengths and ends before lightly distributing the matte paste through the top for separation and control.
Diffuse on a low heat and low speed setting to maintain curl definition and minimise frizz. Avoid overworking the hair while drying, as separating the curls too much can create unwanted volume and take away from the clean, defined finish of the cut.
The finished result is a sharp, wearable style that combines clean barbering details with natural texture — modern, versatile and effortless for clients wanting a fresh but low-maintenance look.
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.”
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Dark Stag proudly unveils the all-new Pro Curl Cream. Designed for professional barbers to enhance and define all types of curls and waves. Deliver hydration, control, and flexibility without weight. Perfect to finish curls or waves with definition, or for a softer matte finish, break up hair with fingers after use.
Infused with a soothing blend of Sage, Violet Leaf, and Patchouli, and enriched with high-quality essential oils, Pro Curl Cream brings professional-grade performance and refinement to curls and waves, whatever the style.
Key Features
Enhances and controls curls and waves
Hydrates and defines without weight
Achieve a defined or softer matte finish, using different styling techniques
Soothing Sage, Violet Leaf, and Patchouli fragrance
Boardroom Salon, a leading men’s grooming and styling destination, announced the appointment of Matt Weiss as Vice President of Franchise Operations. This strategic leadership addition reinforces the brand’s commitment to thoughtful expansion, operational excellence and franchisee success.
In his new role, Weiss will drive development efforts, lead franchisee support operations — including training, franchise meetings and franchisee relationship management — and implement company-wide initiatives in close collaboration with operations.
The appointment reflects Boardroom’s continued focus on building a network with the foundation needed for long-term growth. As the brand expands, Weiss will help advance the systems, support and operational alignment that enable franchisees to succeed and deliver a consistent, elevated client experience.
Deep Franchise Experience
Weiss brings more than a decade of experience in franchising, multi-unit operations and franchise development across consumer service brands.He has worked on both sides of the franchise model, giving him firsthand understanding of the operational and leadership realities franchise owners navigate.
Weiss served as director of franchise development at Level 5 Capital, and he has previously supported emerging and growth-stage brands such as Diesel Barbershop, Three Degrees and Heyday. In addition, he has been a Massage Envy franchisee for over ten years. He earned his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and holds a graduate certificate in product management.
“Matt’s appointment is the result of a relationship and a level of trust that has been building since Boardroom first began exploring franchising,” said Jeff Helfgott, CEO of Boardroom Salon for Men. “He came highly recommended for his firsthand experience on both sides of the franchise relationship, and several of his ideas have already helped shape key initiatives as we continue building a solid foundation for growth. Matt brings practical insight, a strong work ethic and a collaborative mindset that will be invaluable in supporting growth across the system.”
Grounded in Operations
Weiss is spending his first week in Boardroom’s Dallas market, working in salons and beginning to build relationships with the local team. Working in salons is an expectation for all new hires at Boardroom as away to learn the business firsthand, and the company’s salon support team also returns to salons throughout the year to stay connected to the operational experience.
“Boardroom’s approach to franchising is what drew me to the brand,” said Weiss. “The company is clearly investing in the people, processes and infrastructure needed to scale intentionally and create a rewarding experience for franchise partners. I look forward to partnering with the team to help build on that foundation as the company grows.”
Now well into 2026, Boardroom Salon is building on the operational focus and steady franchise momentum it generated in 2025. Led by Helfgott, a multi-unit operator with more than a decade of experience scaling private equity-backed experiential brands and an Army combat veteran, the brand remains focused on execution and consistency, strengthening system-wide stability and franchisee confidence as it expands.
Leading hair surgeon Dr. Abdulaziz Balwi provides expert tips for healthy and full facial growth.
Facial hair trends evolve just as quickly as men’s hairstyles, and for 2026, the big, bushy beard is making a strong comeback. Jacob Elordi certainly turned heads with Heathcliff’s full-coverage beard in “Wuthering Heights”, which was released in February. While styles may shift over time, facial hair in one form or another remains a timeless staple of men’s grooming.
A recent survey conducted by Elithairfound that 37% of 2,000 respondents said their facial hair is likely to affect their self-confidence.The impact is even more pronounced among younger men, with 60% of those aged 18–25 reporting that their facial hair is likely to influence how confident they feel.
The same survey also found strong interest in beard restoration procedures among younger generations. Around 25% of Gen Z respondents (aged 18–28) said they would consider beard restoration surgery, closely followed by millennials at 24%.
To help those struggling to grow a full beard, Dr. Abdulaziz Balwi, hair surgeon at leading hair transplant clinic Elithair, explains what causes patchy facial hair and shares five ways to encourage stronger, fuller growth.
What Causes Patchy Beards? Dr. Balwi Explains.
Hypogonadism is one of the main causesof patchy facial hair. This condition reduces testosterone levels, which are essential for masculine development and facial hair growth. Clinically low testosterone levels can indicate testicular failure or an issue in the part of the brain that signals testosterone production, both of which can result in uneven or sparse facial hair growth.
If you’re under 25 and struggling with a patchy beard, it’s also possible that your facial hair simply hasn’t reached its full growth potential yet. Hormonal fluctuations continue to occur for several years after puberty, which can naturally affect beard density and coverage.
Another cause can be the autoimmune condition Alopecia Areata, which sometimes affects facial hair as Alopecia Areata Barbae. Presentation is often sudden, with one or several smooth circular patches. A dermatologist can confirm the diagnosis and determine appropriate treatment, which may include intralesional or topical corticosteroids and other therapies based on severity.
5 Ways to Improve Beard Fullness
Beard Oils: Natural oils and essential oils are effective at conditioning your beard hair, which nourishes the strands and makes your beard look thicker. Oils such as castor oil and black cumin oil provide deep moisture to the strands.
Microneedling: Studies suggest that microneedling, which creates controlled micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen, may boost the effectiveness of scalp treatments such as minoxidil or PRP. In principle, microneedling could stimulate thicker, more even beard growth; however, few studies have specifically evaluated its effects on facial hair.
Beard Brushes: Using a boar bristle beard hairbrush as part of your beard care routine elongates your hair, especially when it’s used with a beard balm. This makes your facial hair appear fuller.
Vitamins and Minerals: A diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals such as biotin, zinc, and vitamin D can significantly support healthier hair growth, including beard hair. Biotin strengthens keratin, improving hair thickness and resilience. Zinc helps repair hair tissue and supports follicle health, while vitamin D stimulates new follicles, promoting growth in patchy areas.
A Beard Transplant: For a long-term solution, it may be worth considering a beard transplant to achieve an even, patch-free look. To do this, hairs from the back of your head are carefully, individually extracted using the FUE technique. Then, those hair grafts are inserted into the areas with thinning hair in order to tackle patchiness.
