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

Phorest Software has officially concluded the Salon Owners Summit 2026, marking a milestone year for the global professional beauty community. Following the theme “Thrive: The Human Experience, Powered by Technology,” the event saw a record-breaking 750 attendees gather at the Royal Convention Centre in Dublin, surpassing the 2025 attendance by 15% and solidifying the Summit’s reputation as the premier global event for salon, spa and clinic leadership.

The two-day intensive was defined by high-energy networking and the exclusive unveiling of the Phorest AI suite designed to enhance human teams rather than replace them.

Innovation Spotlight: Phorest AI – Enhancing the Human Experience

The 2026 Summit served as the launchpad for Phorest’s most significant technological leap to date: the Phorest AI suite. Built on extensive global research and co-created with salon and clinic owners, this suite is designed to solve three core challenges of the modern beauty business: the need for team enhancement over replacement, the desire for trust and control, and the guest’s expectation for instant gratification. By automating administrative tasks – from summarising complex client histories to managing front-desk enquiries – Phorest AI ensures that teams can show up more prepared, more present, and more connected to every client.

“Our goal has always been to return the gift of time to salon, spa and clinic owners, allowing them to focus on the human connection and the artistry of the client experience,” said Ronan Perceval, CEO of Phorest. “Phorest AI isn’t just a tool; it’s an evolution in partnership. By automating admin, we empower our community to move from surviving the daily grind to truly thriving as creative entrepreneurs.” This year’s Summit was a powerful celebration of community, uniting salon owners, industry leaders, and innovators from across the field. Attendees enjoyed a standout experience filled with meaningful connections, shared learning, and collective growth – all set against a backdrop of inspiration and energy.

A Decade of Dublin: The End of an Era

After ten incredible years of hosting the Summit in Ireland’s capital, Phorest announced a major change of scenery for its next chapter. To accommodate the event’s rapid growth and provide a fresh, immersive experience, the Phorest Summit 2027 will move to Killarney, Co. Kerry.

“The energy in the room this year was electric.” continued Ronan Perceval. “Seeing our community grow this year proves that as our numbers increase, so does our ambition. After ten amazing years in Dublin, it’s time for our next chapter. We are so excited to be moving the Summit to the stunning landscape of Kerry in 2027 – it’s the perfect place to continue this journey of growth together.”

The move to the “Kingdom of Kerry” marks a new era for the Summit, trading the cityscape for the world-renowned beauty of Killarney’s lakeside landscapes.

2027 Dates: January 24th & 25th, 2027

Location: Gleneagle INEC, Killarney, Co. Kerry, Ireland

Don’t miss out on 2027! Secure your spot here – https://www.phorestsummit.com/

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA), the largest and most inclusive trade organization representing the professional beauty industry, has announced an expansion and realignment of its Government Affairs team to strengthen industry advocacy at a pivotal moment for licensed professionals nationwide.

As part of this strategic evolution:

Myra Reddy, currently PBA’s Director of Government Affairs, will be elevated to Vice President of Government Affairs, where she will oversee national policy strategy and legislative engagement, ensuring that the voice of the professional beauty industry is heard and represented in public policy.

Kati Rapoza will advance into a newly defined Director of Advocacy and Industry Mobilization role, expanding her leadership across advocacy campaigns, stakeholder communication, and member engagement.

Leslie Roste, a respected policy and safety expert well known for her impactful work with the Future of the Beauty Industry Coalition (FBIC) to develop and promote the Cosmetology Compact, will join PBA as Director of State Relations. In this role, she will help advance multi-state licensure initiatives, including both the Cosmetology and Esthetics Compacts. Her addition strengthens alignment and continuity across industry-wide government affairs efforts.

PBA CEO Leslie Perry emphasized that these changes reflect a commitment to building a unified, collaborative, and highly resourced advocacy structure.

“Our industry is at an inflection point,” said Perry. “As the Cosmetology and Esthetics Compacts continue to accelerate across the country, it is vital that we show up with one coordinated strategy, one voice, and one strong, aligned team. Elevating Myra and Kati, and welcoming Leslie, ensures PBA is positioned to deliver the leadership, expertise, and momentum needed right now.”

Gordon Logan, Chairman and Founder of SportClips and President of FBIC, added: “Over the past three years, I have worked closely with Myra and Kati many long hours on the tip tax credit, and they were tireless in their efforts to push it through. Their expanded roles are very well deserved. Leslie has been instrumental in developing the Cosmetology Compact on behalf of FBIC, and the success to date is due in large part to her efforts. Her move to PBA is well-timed so that she can continue to coordinate compacts for both Cosmetology and Esthetics. Our industry is stronger than ever thanks to the leadership of all three of these ladies.”

The new Government Affairs structure will allow PBA to streamline legislative strategy, increase state-level engagement, strengthen mobilization efforts, and bring clarity and coordination to advocacy around the Compacts and other critical issues affecting licensed professionals.

Roste formally joined PBA on January 2, 2026.

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) Unveils the 2026 PBA North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) Finalists

The PBA revealed the Finalists for the 37^th Annual NAHA, presented by JCPenney. Widely regarded as the most prestigious honors in North American professional beauty, NAHA celebrates the artists whose work sets the creative, technical, and cultural standard for the industry.

The 2026 PBA NAHA Finalists represent an extraordinary range of creative vision, technical mastery, and innovation. Across hair, makeup, education, and team-based artistry, these artists have pushed beyond trend to create work that is bold, intentional, and unmistakably forward-looking.

Each Finalist earned their place through months of conceptual development, technical refinement, and creative execution. Submissions were judged anonymously by a panel of industry-leading experts and evaluated on technical excellence, cohesion, originality, and artistic impact.

To be named a PBA NAHA Finalist is to be recognized among the most accomplished professionals in the industry. These artists create work that not only reflects where beauty is today, but signals where it’s going next.

The 2026 PBA NAHA Finalists are:

Avant Garde:
Breanne Gershon,@glam.breanne – nominated for two categories
Chrystofer Benson, @cbensonhair – nominated for two categories + Team category
Erika Fung, @erikafunghair
James Valiant, @jamesvaliant
Michael Pollsinelli, @michael.polsinelli

Barber of the Year:
AROD, @Arod23pr
Carlos Estrella, @Los_cut_it
Carlos Pagan, @Drasticartbarbering
Chris Jimenez, @c.jimenez24
Papiblendzz (Henry Rodriguez), @Papiblendzz

Editorial Stylist of the Year:
Brendnetta Ashley, @edgybgirl
Jamie Wiley, @jamiewileyeditorial – + Team category nomination
Josie Vilayvanh, @josievilay
Maggie Semaan, @maggiesemaan
Ruth Roche, @ruthroche – nominated for two categories

Educator of the Year:
Ashlee Norman, @ashleenormahair
Naeemah LaFond, @naeemahlafond
Nina Tulio, @ninatulio
Sonya Dove, @Thesonyadove
Stephen Moody, @hairmoody

Haircolor:
Breanne Gershon,@glam.breanne – nominated for two categories
Brooke LeMasters, @brookelemastershair
David Vendittelli, @davidvendittelli + Team category nomination
Gilad Goldstein, @myguiltycrown + Team category nomination
Sean Godard, @seangodard + Team category nomination

Haircutting:
Evie Johnson, @contactevie
Genia Church, @GeniaChurch – nominated for two categories
Isabelle Lachance, @isabelle.lachance.oblic
Marylle Koken, @kokentheharlot
Tippi Shorter, @tippishorter – nominated for two categories

Hairstylist of the Year:
Brayden Pelletier, @justbhair – nominated for two categories
Julie Vriesinga, @julievriesinga
Michelle Oliver, @michelleoliverhair
Robin LeChance, @robin_la_chance
Vanessa Whitmarsh, @vwhitmarshhair

Inspiring Salon of the Year:
Bliss Salon and Spa, @BlissSalonAndSpa2020
Genesis Salon and Spa, @genesis_salonandspa
kit. Fort Thomas, @kitfortthomassalon
Matthew Morris Salon, @matthewmorrissalon
Salon Raybon, @salonraybon

International Collection of the Year (*NEW IN 2026):
Carlos Valiente, Spain @carlosvaliente.bycv
Danilo Giangreco, United Kingdom @danilogiangreco_hair
Emma Simmons, United Kingdom @emmasimmonshair
Gianluca Grechi, Italy @gianlucagrechi
Tom Yek, Malaysia @tomyek_decrypt

Makeup Artist of the Year:
Angela Balbon, @mzbartistry
David Maderich, @davidmaderich
Ebony Ivey, @theiveyleaguebeautycollective
Kisha Augustine, @kishaaugustine
Patricia Bailes, @Pbailesmua

Master Hairstylist of the Year:
Allen Ruiz, @allenruizstyle
Anna Pacitto, @anna_pacitto_pure
Cassie Carey, @cassiecarey.hair
David Barron, @barronslondonsalon
Nicole Pede, @nmpede

Student Hairstylist of the Year:
Derek Robinson, no social handle provided
Elin Lien, @elinthebeautician
Madison Jessop, @twixystyling
Mai Nguyen, @maimai.hair22
PJ Hayes, @pj.cosmo

Styling and Finishing:
Brayden Pelletier, @justbhair – nominated for two categories
Carlos Alvarez, @carlos_alvarez_hair
Galyna Poczciwinski, @ufirami
Laura Gunter, @lauragunterbeauty
Ruth Roche, @ruthroche – nominated for two categories

Team of the Year:
1CPR
Jamie Wiley, Joel Torres, Nanette Guild, Vinnie Morey, Dayna Gamba
@jamiewileyeditorial, @joeltorresstyle, @nanette_guild, @theproperorangecounty, @dgcuts

Chrystofer Benson Collective
Chrystofer Benson, Hannah Benson, Lacye Geitgey, Karine Belanger, Chris Jimenez, Erin Hensley            
@haircbc_pro

Team INdustry
David Vendittelli, Marilyn Vendittelli, Natasha Gerschon
@davidvendittelli, @marilynvendittellihair, @styledbybloss

The Upper Hand
Hannah Waters, Soleil Rocha, Jordan Dudley, Zoe O’Day
@theupperhandriveroaks

Ulta Beauty
Gilad Goldstein, Michelle O’Connor, Galyna Poczciwinski, Sean Godard, Beto Sanchez, Janelle Eyre
@myguiltycrown, @michelleoconnorbeauty, @ufirami, @seangodard, @betoloveshair, @jeyre.hair

Texture:
Chrystofer Benson, @cbensonhair – nominated for two categories + Team category
Genia Church, @GeniaChurch – nominated for two categories
Jaimee Harris Smith, @Hairbyjsmith
Jamie Wiley, @jamiewileyeditorial – nominated for two categories
Tippi Shorter, @tippishorter – nominated for two categories

Winners will be revealed during the 37th Annual North American Hairstyling Awards, presented by JCPenney, on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at the Chapin Theater in Orlando, Florida, held alongside Premiere Orlando. The live awards ceremony will bring together leading artists, educators, brands, and industry voices for an evening celebrating excellence at the highest level of professional beauty.

“PBA NAHA honors more than beautiful work. It honors the courage to lead creatively,” said Leslie Perry, CEO of the Professional Beauty Association. “This year’s Finalists demonstrate what happens when mastery, vision, and purpose intersect. Their work challenges convention, raises the bar for our industry, and inspires what’s possible next.”

DermapenWorld has announced the launch of the RE:GEN Roadshow: The Future of Skin & Hair — a nationwide education and networking event that will tour six major U.S. cities this March.

Bringing together global industry leaders in hairdressing, aesthetics and medical science, the RE:GEN Roadshow is designed to empower salon and clinic professionals with the latest breakthroughs in scalp health, fine and thinning hair solutions, and regenerative science-based treatments. The Roadshow offers attendees access to world-class education to elevate client results and business growth.

Attendees will experience a vibrant evening of community, learning, inspiration and connection, with complimentary canapés and drinks plus a Goodie Bag valued at over $300.

A Transformative Event for the Professional Industry

The roadshow will host approximately close to 1000 salon and clinic professionals nationally, with 100+ attendees per city, across Chicago, Atlanta, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Miami and Dallas, uniting:

• Hairstylists & barbers
• Beauty & aesthetic clinic owners
• Medical aesthetics practitioners
• Trichologists
• Business leaders

Global Experts Headline the Stage

The event is led by internationally respected industry icon:

Tracey Hughes, Global General Manager for EXO-GROW and Hall of Fame Hairstylist.

Guest speakers include:

Andrew Hansford (London, UK) — Medical expert, Trichologist and Global Educator in hair restoration

Corri Marshall (Sydney, Australia) — Co-Founder of Dermapenworld and product innovator

Additional leading Doctors and influential Hairstylists appearing in all cities

World-Leading Innovation Behind the Movement

DermapenWorld is the #1 microneedling company worldwide, operating in 107 countries, supported in the U.S. through distribution partner DP Derm, a key leader in medical aesthetics. With a long-established authority in regenerative skin science, DermapenWorld now expands its expertise into the hair restoration and hairdressing sector through EXO-GROW, bringing new advanced solutions to salon professionals across the country.

Industry Partnerships

The RE:GEN Roadshow is supported by leading industry collaborators including: Ergo Styling Tools, DP Derm and Phorest Salon Software.

Why Attend

“This is more than an event — it’s a movement advancing the future of professional practice and salon haircare. We’re bringing together the latest scientific breakthroughs, real-world education and community to help professionals transform the way they approach skin and hair health,” says Tracey Hughes, Global General Manager, EXO-GROW.

Attendees will walk away with:

• Practical hair loss and scalp restoration education.
• Access to new science-driven innovations shaping the future of the industry.
• Knowledge into new revenue streams to drive tprofitability and how to stay ahead of a rapidly growing multi-billion-dollar hair loss category.
• A deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological impact of hair loss, helping you to better support your clients with empathy and professional care.
• Networking with top experts and peers across hairdressing, beauty, aesthetics and medical fields.

Event Dates

• Chicago March 22
• Atlanta March 23
• Los Angeles March 29
• Dallas March 30
• Miami March 31
• All events 5-9pm

Tickets

Tickets are available now.
Register here: https://hubs.ly/Q03XzJbJ0

America’s Beauty Show returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, April 18-20, 2026, marking its 103rd year as North America’s largest nonprofit beauty event. Built for licensed professionals who take craft seriously, ABS blends advanced education, on-floor discovery, and industry connection under the 2026 theme, THRIVE, with a renewed emphasis on community and professional momentum.

Competitions expand in 2026. Barbers, this is your weekend to sharpen your edge and show what sets your work apart. America’s Beauty Show 2026 brings elevated barber education, pro tools, and serious on-floor discovery to Rosemont, built for artists who care about precision, performance, and modern grooming.

Make time for the BARBER COMPETITION hosted by Chicago’s own Headquarters Barbers on Sunday, April 19, from 2:00 – 5:00pmCST, happening live on the Barbershop Stage. Expect high-level talent and strong technique. Whether you compete or watch, you will leave with fresh inspiration, new approaches you can take straight to the chair, and a deeper connection to your barber community. Enter today.

ENTER THE ABS BARBER COMPETITION HOSTED BY HEADQUARTERS BARBERS

Come see A-Rod, Brea J, Byrd Mena, Ivan Zoot, John Mosley, Jesse Elite, Los Cut It, Tyler Kelbert and more. Expect techniques you can translate directly to the chair, plus forward-looking perspective on what clients are asking for next.

On the show floor, brands span pro hair, tools, and grooming, including BaBylissPRO, L3V3L 3, Andis, Wahl, Stylecraft | Gamma+, Johnny B. Hair Care, Headquarters Barbers, Barber Evo and additional exhibitors alongside major beauty and wellness names. It is a concentrated opportunity to test, compare, and shop with intent, whether you are refining a luxury service menu or upgrading your station essentials.

To enter the Competition, ABS Show Tickets, CC membership, and the Advanced Program Show Guide are now available at AmericasBeautyShow.com.

For more details, visit americasbeautyshow.com and follow on social media.