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.

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
• Contains essential oils
• Water soluble for effortless washout

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.

For more information on Boardroom Salon for Men and its franchise opportunity, visit www.boardroomsalon.com/franchise.

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 Elithair found 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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.

SalonCentric Becomes the Premiere Shows’ First-Ever Presenting Sponsor for San Antonio event, Bringing Unparalleled Value to Beauty Professionals

Premiere Beauty Shows, the nation’s leading network of professional beauty events, is proud to announce a strategic partnership with SalonCentric, a premier distributor of salon professional products, as the first-ever presenting sponsor of Premiere San Antonio. This historic collaboration unites two industry leaders to deliver an elevated and transformative experience for beauty professionals in the Southwest.

Premiere San Antonio presented by SalonCentric: August 30-31, 2026

This partnership represents the coming together of two leaders in the beauty industry, each with a proven track record of empowering professionals and driving innovation. Premiere Beauty Shows has long been recognized as the gold standard for professional beauty events, while SalonCentric is celebrated as the go-to distributor for salon professionals, offering access to the most sought-after products and education. Together, these two leaders are redefining what regional beauty events can achieve, creating a platform that inspires, educates, and connects beauty professionals like never before.

A Historic Collaboration to Elevate the Industry
As the first-ever presenting sponsor in Premiere Beauty Shows’ history, SalonCentric’s involvement marks a pivotal moment for the beauty industry. This partnership is not just about hosting an event—it’s about leveraging the combined strength of two industry giants to empower beauty professionals and advance the profession.

SalonCentric’s role as presenting sponsor will amplify the event’s impact, bringing attendees exclusive access to cutting-edge products, world-class education, and immersive experiences that reflect the shared commitment of both organizations to excellence and innovation.

What Happens When Two Powerhouses Join Forces?
The collaboration between Premiere Beauty Shows and SalonCentric promises to deliver an unmatched experience for attendees, including:

●      Unrivaled Expertise: With Premiere Beauty Shows’ legacy of hosting world-class events and SalonCentric’s deep knowledge of professional products and education, attendees will benefit from the combined expertise of two industry leaders.

●      Expanded Opportunities: SalonCentric’s involvement will bring a broader range of brands, educators, and activations to Premiere San Antonio, ensuring beauty professionals have access to the best the industry has to offer.

●      A Shared Vision for Growth: Both organizations are committed to empowering beauty professionals, driving innovation, and fostering meaningful connections that elevate careers and businesses.

A Partnership Built on Leadership and Innovation
Randy Field, Senior Vice President of Premiere Beauty Shows, emphasized the significance of this collaboration:
“This partnership is a true meeting of the minds between two industry powerhouses. Premiere Beauty Shows and SalonCentric share a commitment to excellence, innovation, and supporting beauty professionals. Together, we are creating an event that will set a new standard for regional beauty events and inspire professionals across the Southwest.”

LeAnn Bobitt, SVP of Brand Strategy for SalonCentric, echoed this sentiment:
“SalonCentric and Premiere stand at the forefront of our industry, and our partnership is a powerful testament to our unified vision of empowering beauty professionals. By merging our strengths, we are poised to deliver an exceptional experience that equips beauty professionals with the essential tools, cutting-edge education, and creative inspiration they need to thrive.”

A Must-Attend Event for Beauty Professionals
Premiere San Antonio 2026 will feature more than 100 brands, diverse education sessions spanning hair, barbering, spa & wellness, nails, makeup, and more, as well as show-stopping Main Stage presentations, hands-on workshops, and immersive activations. With SalonCentric as presenting sponsor, the event will deliver an elevated experience that reflects the combined strength and vision of two industry leaders.

Visit Premiere San Antonio presented by SalonCentric

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this transformative event in the heart of Texas. Show passes for Premiere San Antonio Presented By SalonCentric (August 30-31, 2026) will be available March 2026 at premieresanantonioshow.com, and SalonCentric/State RDA retail locations in Texas.

Visit the premieresanantonioshow.com for more information and updates.

From sharp fades to longer, flowing styles and detailed braided work, there was plenty of trend inspiration sported on the red carpet at the Academy Awards from some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Here’s a roundup of some of the best looks of the night. 

1. Ryan Coogler’s Music-Inspired Braids by Tyzanna B and Jalon Webster

Director and Writer of “Sinners,” Ryan Coogler celebrated the film’s musical motifs with an intricate braided look that included a treble clef and Blue’s guitar. 

This gorgeous style was created by braider Tyzanna B. Coogler also sported a fresh cut courtesy of celebrity barber Jalon Webster.

2. Hudson Williams’ Voluminous, Wet Look by Aika Flores 

“Heated Rivalry” star Hudson Williams is one of the next break-out stars, so naturally his look for the Academy Awards needed to be larger than life. 

Celebrity groomer Aika Flores opted for an effortless wet look framed by wispy bangs. She brought the style to life using Dyson’s Supersonic r. 

Get the Look: 

• Flores started on damp hair, using the Dyson Supersonic r with the diffuser attachment to gently dry the hair while keeping the natural movement intact. The diffuser keeps the airflow soft, which helps maintain that natural texture without blowing the style apart.
• Then, she used her hands to bend and guide the hair into shape as it dried, setting the direction so it fell exactly where she wanted. 

3. Connor Storrie’s Mod Cut by Candice Birns

We can’t talk about Hudson Williams without also mentioning Connor Storrie. 

To pair with his striking sheer Saint Laurent top and faux muff, hairdresser and groomer Candice Birns styled Storrie in a mod cut with curly fringe.

4.  Chase Stokes’ Buzz Cut and Full Beard by Candice Birns 

“Outer Banks” star Chase Stokes looked sharp on the red carpet, wearing a velvet, burgundy tuxedo jacket. 

To pair with his lux look, Stokes sported a buzz cut and grown out beard. To create the look, Birns used products from STMNT Grooming Goods. 

5. Michael B. Jordan’s Fade and Beard by Tasha Reiko Brown

Best Actor winner for “Sinners,” Michael B. Jordan wore custom Louis Vuitton to the Academy Awards. 

Complementing his tailored look, celebrity groomer Tasha Reiko Brown used Bevel Beard Oil, Beard Conditioner and Trimmer SE as well as Toppik Hair Building Fibers and Fiberhold Spray for a fuller, camera-ready finish to his grooming. 

6. Ethan Hawke’s Modern Day Mullet by Christine Nelli 

While wearing Prada, Ethan Hawke rocked a swept-back modern day mullet and beard styled by celebrity men’s groomer Christine Nelli. 

7. Lewis Pullman’s Lightly Wavy Cut by Christine Nelli 

Styled in Saint Laurent, Lewis Pullman presented at the Academy Awards alongside his father Bill Pullman. 

For his grooming, Nelli gave Lewis a medium-length cut that blends perfectly into his soft, natural stubble. 

8. Jacob Elordi’s Texturized Mullet by Amy Komorowski

Best Supporting Actor nominee for “Frankenstein,” Jacob Elordi wore a Bottega Veneta suit to the Academy Awards. 

The classic style complimented his wispy, texturized mullet from celebrity male groomer Amy Komorowski.

9. Leonardo DiCaprio’s Polished Side Part by Kara Yoshimoto Bua

Nominated for Best Actor for “One Battle After Another,” Leonardo DiCaprio sported a classic Dior tuxedo and bow-tie. To pair with the look, men’s groomer Kara Yoshimoto Bua styled his hair in a swept-back side-part. He also rocked a mustache. 

10. Kieran Culkin’s Lived-In Texturized Cut by Rachel Burney

Presenting the award for Best Supporting Actor, Kieran Culkin returned to the Academy Awards in a brown Paul Smith suit jacket with a brooch. 

For his grooming, hairstylist and groomer Rachel Burney gave him a wispy, lived-in cut using products and tools from Hanzo, Oribe, and STMNT Grooming. 

11. Pedro Pascal’s Fresh Face and Voluminous Side-Part by Coco Ullrich

Pedro Pascal turned heads in custom Chanel on the Academy Awards red carpet, but most notably he debuted a fresh face. While facial hair seemed to be a common trend for the night, Pascal’s clean look made him look debonair. 

To keep him looking classy, men’s groomer Coco Ullrich styled his hair in a voluminous, swept back slide part. 

Spring is reset season, and your scalp is first in line. Months of heavier winter haircare products can leave buildup behind, while rising humidity and unpredictable weather can throw everything off balance, leading to flakiness, itchiness and irritation. Fatboy, a leader in short hair care and high-performance styling, created its award-winning Honey Putty to tackle scalp concerns head-on. Designed as a dual-purpose styling putty and leave-in scalp treatment, Honey Putty calms irritation while delivering flexible hold, natural matte definition and touchable texture. It’s the one product you will want within arm’s reach all season long.

Honey Putty (2.6oz. / $21) was born from founder Tyson Kennedy’s vision to combine styling and scalp care into a single step. No layering. No complicated routines. Just high-performance styling with real scalp benefits. Lightweight and non-greasy, the formula is built for short to medium styles and safe for color-treated hair, delivering a sexy matte finish, natural texture, and soft, workable hold while helping address dryness, itchiness, and flaking and supporting healthier-looking hair over time.

Made with clean, key scalp care ingredients, Honey Putty draws inspiration from Tyson Kennedy’s New Zealand roots, featuring powerful natural extracts sourced from the region. Manuka Honey works as a natural humectant with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help calm irritation, reduce buildup and support a balanced scalp. Kiwi Extract delivers vitamin C to support collagen production and elasticity, while its naturally occurring iron, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids help soothe flakes and defend against environmental stress. Paw Paw (papaya) adds vitamins A, C and E to soften strands, smooth frizz and protect against heat damage. Together, these ingredients not only bring the scalp back into balance but keep it there.

To use Honey Putty, warm a pea-size amount between your palms, work through dry or damp hair to shape and style, then massage the remainder into the scalp and leave it in. One simple step that simplifies your routine while nourishing the hair and scalp with each use. Consider this your spring reset. Hair stays sharp. Scalp stays balanced all season long.

To learn more about Fatboy and to purchase Honey Putty, visit www.fatboyhair.com/

When your tools work as hard as you do, upgrading isn’t about chasing the newest release — it’s about choosing equipment that keeps pace with your craft. The Recon™ Clipper and Recon™ Trimmer have quickly proven themselves behind the chair, earning a place in daily rotations thanks to their balance of power, control, and customization.

If your current setup is starting to feel limiting, Recon™ delivers the performance upgrade your station has been waiting for.

Power That Performs, All Day

At the core of both tools is vector motor technology, designed to maintain speed and torque even under heavy load.

• Recon™ Clipper: A 9,000 SPM motor delivers smooth bulk removal, confident fades, and seamless blending — even through dense hair.
• Recon™ Trimmer: An 8,500 SPM motor offers sharp detailing, clean lineups, and precise bald work without drag or hesitation.

The result is consistent cutting performance from your first client to your last.

Precision You Can Feel

Control matters — especially during fades, tapers, and finishing work.

• Adjustable Phaze blade on the clipper: Choose click or no-click lever control for personalized cutting.
• DLC-coated T-blade on the trimmer: Reduces friction for smooth, snag-free lines and is zero-gap capable for crisp detailing.

Both tools feature compact metal housings that reduce vibration and hand fatigue, helping you stay steady during long sessions.

Built to Match Your Style and Workflow

Recon™ doesn’t just perform — it fits your station.

• Interchangeable housings: Customize the look of both tools with black chrome, gold, or matte black covers.
• Premium charging stands: Quick-release stands keep your tools powered, accessible, and your station clutter-free.
• USB-C charging: Fast, convenient recharging that works with modern setups.

With long cordless runtimes — up to 4 hours on the clipper and 2 hours on the trimmer — interruptions stay off your schedule.

A Smart Upgrade for Serious Professionals

Whether you’re refining fades, sharpening lineups, or powering through packed days, the Recon™ Clipper and Trimmer elevate both performance and presentation. They’re not about hype — they’re about reliability, control, and confidence behind the chair.

If your current tools are holding you back, upgrading to Recon™ isn’t just a refresh — it’s an investment in your craft.

Upgrade your lineup. Cut with confidence. Recon™ is ready when you are.

Shop Now USA // Shop Now UK & Ireland