As March is Women’s history month, we have teamed up with Wahl Professional to spotlight some of
the up-and-coming and influential female barbers who have risen up through this male-dominated
industry to make a name for themselves.
This week’s focus: Barber and Wahl Pro Educator, Munny Thapar.

What inspired you to become a barber, and how did your journey in the industry begin?

“At a very young age, I realized I was drawn to art in every form. Being someone who naturally loved teaching and helping others, I combined my artistic and people skills and
discovered that barbering was my true passion. I became obsessed with learning about fades, blade work, styling, and the barbering culture. To further develop my skills, I started cutting hair for friends and family at home. That quickly led to me enrolling in hair school and working in a barbershop, where I built my confidence and honed my craft.”

As a female barber, did you face any unique challenges when starting out? How did you overcome them?

“There were many challenges that came with being a female barber. Being one of the few women in a male-dominated industry, I had to work twice as hard to prove myself. I put in
long hours, but I was often turned down by clients who doubted my ability to perfect their beards or haircuts. It was tough—knowing barbering was my calling but not being trusted to cut hair. Instead of letting that discourage me, I used it as fuel to master every skill that makes barbering special. I focused on perfecting fades, improving my consultation techniques to assure clients they were in the hands of a professional, and refining my craft to the point
where even bystanders would want a cut. Over time, I built both my confidence and skill set to prove that talent has no gender.”

How do you think the industry is evolving, and what more can be done to support aspiring female barbers?

“The industry is definitely moving in the right direction. With social media, we’re able to showcase our skills and build a brand that extends beyond our city—even reaching a
worldwide audience. More brands, like Wahl, are recognizing that barbering isn’t just for men and that there are many incredibly talented women in the industry as well. That said, there’s still more work to do. I believe mentorship programs, creating more spaces for women in barbering events, and ensuring that barbershops foster inclusive environments would make a world of difference in empowering aspiring female barbers.”

What advice would you give to women who want to break into the barbering industry?

“Shoulders back and chin up. That’s something I’ve told myself ever since I started barbering. I would repeat it before stepping on stage for a barber battle, before walking into the shop, and even before starting a cut. Confidence is everything. Knowing that you are brave, strong, and skilled enough to be great at whatever you do will take you far—not just in barbering, but in life. Surround yourself with
barbers who inspire, encourage, and challenge you. Stay connected in the industry, never stop learning, and always push yourself to improve.”

How has your role with Wahl helped shape your experience in the industry? And how has the brand supported you throughout your career?

“Being a Wahl Professional educator has also helped to propel my career. Being associated with
such a respected brand has opened so many doors, from education opportunities to networking with some of the best barbers in the world. Wahl has been incredibly supportive of my journey, providing top-tier tools and platforms to showcase my work. What I love most about Wahl is that they truly value family, innovation, and inclusivity in barbering. Having their support makes me feel like there are no limits to what I can achieve in
this industry.”

Munny’s go-to Tools

“The Wahl tools that are in my day-to-day arsenal are the Cord/Cordless Magic Clip, Vanquish Hairdryer and Hi-Viz Trimmer. These tools have helped me sharpen my skills and perfect my craft.”

Heiniger UK has launched a new 24-hour turnaround scissor sharpening service following a significant investment in new machinery and staff. Customers will be able to take scissors to any Heiniger approved retailer to request the service. Service manager Shaunie Tottle says: “Service staff have all completed a five-day course to operate a range of new machinery and provide customers with an industry-leading scissor sharpening service. Heiniger UK is now able to
service and sharpen a wide range of scissors in just 24 hours.”

Investments in new state of the art equipment, including a Wolf Industries Twice as Sharp® scissor sharpener and a Hira-To® flat hone scissor sharpener with hook and loop discs. “We are now able to take in scissors of all shapes and sizes to be sharpened. For human or animal groomers who use scissors everyday it is important to ensure the blades are factory sharp and, if the metal is dirty, rusty or folding rather than cutting hair, the scissors are well overdue a service and sharpen,” she says.

The sharpening process requires scissors to be disassembled and cleaned before a new ride is added to both sides using a wet stone.

The blades are then worked on a variety of grit settings before being polished and buffed. “We feel the smoothness of the blade to establish if the burr has gone and put it back on the machine if not,” she says.

Finished scissors are tested on single ply paper and on dolls with wet hair to establish if the desired cutting edge has been achieved through the sharpening process. “This is an intricate process but one that we can carry out in just 24 hours because of the skills our team have and the machinery we have invested in. For safety, comfort and efficiency, all scissors should be kept at their best which is why we are offering this service to all users in the UK,” she concludes.

Dense Hair Experts, the award-winning leader in personalised hair loss treatments, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Stephanie Mason as its new Global Business Consultant. With a stellar track record in business strategy and brand development, Mason will spearhead Dense’s expansion into global distribution, professional salon growth, and cutting-edge educational initiatives.

Stephanie joins at a pivotal moment for Dense, which has already made waves in the haircare industry, trusted by A-list celebrities, elite athletes, and thousands of men and women worldwide. Fresh from winning Gold at Europe’s Transform Awards in the health and wellness category, as well as being named Best Medical-Led Hair Loss Solutions Provider UK 2024, Dense is cementing its position as the market leader in clinically backed, results-driven hair growth solutions.

Expanding Global Reach & Female-Focused Hair Solutions

In her new role, Stephanie will focus on strengthening Dense’s international distribution network, ensuring accessibility to its bespoke, prescription-grade hair loss treatments across global markets. She will also lead Dense’s strategic move into professional salons, giving hairstylists and trichologists the tools to integrate Dense treatments seamlessly into their services.

One of Stephanie’s key priorities will be revolutionising female hair loss care. While Dense has already transformed male hair restoration, she will bring her expertise to address the growing and often-overlooked crisis of female hair thinning and loss. Through targeted consumer and professional outreach, Mason aims to bridge the gap between salon-quality treatments and effective at-home care, ensuring that women struggling with hair loss have access to real, science-backed solutions.

Elevating Education & Industry Expertise

Stephanie will also oversee the development of an advanced education platform, designed to train haircare professionals in Dense’s high-performance, personalised treatment plans. This initiative will equip stylists, dermatologists, and trichologists with the knowledge to deliver unparalleled results, reinforcing Dense’s position as the global leader in medical-led hair restoration.

A Word from the Leadership

“We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Stephanie to the Dense family,” said Ash Hashmi, Co-founder of Dense Hair Experts. “Her expertise in business strategy and brand development is exactly what we need as we take Dense to new heights. With Stephanie’s leadership, we’re confident in our ability to expand our global footprint and continue to set new standards in personalised haircare.”

Stephanie expressed her enthusiasm about joining Dense at such an exciting juncture:

“Dense’s commitment to high-performance, scientifically backed hair growth solutions is truly inspiring. The brand is redefining what it means to treat hair loss with precision and effectiveness, and I am excited to drive its expansion and impact across the globe.”

Why Dense? A Science-Backed, Award-Winning Brand

Dense Hair Experts is not just another haircare brand—it’s a movement. Backed by industry-leading dermatologists and trichologists, Dense’s bespoke hair growth solutions use pharmaceutical-grade actives, botanical and biotechnological extracts, and cutting-edge formulation techniques. Its clinically backed, pill-free approach has already helped over 20,000 men and women regain their hair confidence, and with Mason on board, the future looks even brighter.

For more information on Dense’s award-winning treatments, visit www.densehairexperts.com.

Follow us on Instagram:

📍 @densehairexperts

📍 @stephaniemason

Hundreds of hairdressers took to the streets for the Salon Owners and Employers action day that took place on March 17th in central London.

The peaceful protest was organised by the British Hair Consortium whereby the industry pulled together to show its support for tax reform. Hairdressing and beauty salon owners gathered at London’s Parliament Square, in a bid to request that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will throw the sector an economic lifeline. It is hoped that the ‘Save Our Salons’ rally will get the attention of Government.

A recent report commissioned by the British Hair Consortium and carried out by CBI Economics, highlighted how an unbalanced tax system is decimating the hair and beauty industry – and showed that unless things change, there will be no new apprenticeships by 2027 and a 93% fall in employment by 2030. This would leave very few in employment, creating a sector largely devoid of the employment rights that come with being an employee.

With the Spring Forecast on the horizon, the British Hair Consortium – which represents 50,000 UK hairdressing professionals – says the Government must urgently halve the VAT salons pay on labour costs to 10% to help them overcome the existential crisis they’re facing.

Toby Dicker from The British Hair Consortium said: “We won’t stand down and let our industry die. The support shown by our industry was incredible and I hope that we have gained the attention that we need to show Government that we need a lifeline. We need VAT reform and we’re not going to stop shouting for this to happen.”

National media and news channels attended the protest, streaming the story globally, in what was deemed as a highly successful protest.

For more information on The British Hair Consortium go to https://www.bhc.org.uk/

@britishhairconsortium #saveoursalons

Get ready for an unmissable experience on the green as the fourth annual HBSA & Hair & Beauty Charity Golf Day heads to the stunning
Championship Cheshire Course at Carden Park on Tuesday 3 June, 2025. With breath-taking views of the Welsh hills and the Cheshire countryside, and a course designed to challenge all skill levels, this year’s event
promises to be more exciting than ever.
Golfers can look forward to a thrilling round, and a spectacular 18th-hole finish, cheered on by industry friends from the Clubhouse Balcony. The day wraps up with a drinks reception, awards, a three-course dinner, and evening entertainment —all while raising funds for a great cause.

Best of all, despite the upgraded Championship course experience, prices remain the same as in previous years: £150 per player or £600 for a 4-ball team, including breakfast, golf, and dinner. Non-golfers are also invited to join the evening festivities for just £49 per person.

President Jayne Lewis-Orr said: “Our annual Golf Day is a highlight in our fundraising
calendar, and always promises to be a fun and competitive day, with money raised going
towards the work done by the Hair & Beauty Charity! We welcome players back to Carden
Park – and new players to come and join us.”
If you can’t make it why not show your support through the multiple sponsorship
opportunities available, including the four annual awards (£350 each) and 18 golf holes
(£100 per hole.)

Don’t miss out – secure your place today and swing into action for charity!
For more details and to book, visit https://hairandbeautycharity.org/shop/p/golf-day
For media information contact ruth@redmanemedia.com

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) is thrilled to announce a major evolution of its highly anticipated Top 100 Influencer Index. Now in its fifth year, due to overwhelming demand and the incredible talent within the sector, the awards will now be divided into two distinct categories: the Top 50 Hair Influencer Index and the Top 50 Beauty Influencer Index.

As the NHBF Top 100 Influencer Index continue to grow, this separation ensures a greater focus on the achievements of professionals across both sectors, giving more recognition to the creators, educators, and trendsetters shaping the sector.

The NHBF Top 100 Influencer Index opens for entries today (Monday 10th March) and is open to all hair and beauty professionals working in the sector who meet the below criteria:

• A professional currently working in the hairdressing, barbering, beauty, spa, nails or aesthetics industries.
• Applicants should have an applicable qualification in the industry they are working in from a regulated awarding organisation, or equivalent continual experience working in the industry (5 years+).

You can nominate as many people as you wish, including yourself, and we encourage you to post it on social media too using #NHBFTop100Influencers. #NHBFTop50HairInfluencers #NHBFTop50BeautyInfluencers

Nominate your Top 100 Influencers here.

The nomination process is simple:

• Enter your name and the name of the person you’re nominating.
• Enter their social media handles (Instagram, TikTok & YouTube).
• Tick the category you are nominating in i.e. Hair or Beauty.
• Confirm that you/they meet the nomination criteria.

Once the nominations close, a Top 250 longlist will be compiled. This will then be independently evaluated based on the following metrics/criteria:

• Followers – the number of people following you/the nominees.
• Engagement – the number of mentions, shares, links, and impressions of your/the nominees’ posts.
• Reach – how many people have seen your/the nominees’ posts.

NHBF Chief Executive, Caroline Larissey said:
“The demand for the NHBF Top 100 Influencer Awards has been absolutely phenomenal. Splitting the awards into two categories allows us to truly showcase the incredible talent and influence across both the hair and beauty sector. We will be unveiling the venues for each final shortly.”

Rob Weston, owner of LEVEL 7 BARBER has been announced as OSMO’s new brand ambassador.

With over 12 years of experience in the barbering industry, Rob Weston’s journey began at LAFHAB (Leeds Academy for Hairdressing & Barbering) in Leeds City Centre. After qualifying, he honed his craft in a busy walk-in barbershop, quickly building a loyal clientele that followed him as he moved to the next town. His
ambition led him to convert part of a hair salon into a dedicated barbershop, where he spent two years establishing his name before returning to the heart of Leeds.

Rob gained valuable experience at Boris & Co, refining his skills in a fast-paced city
environment under Michael Tominay. He later expanded his expertise at King Coby’s and 13 Barbers, working alongside a close-knit team. After three years, fatherhood led him back to a local setting at Boris & Co in Mirfield before he set out on his own venture.

In June 2023, Rob opened Level 7 Barbers in a fully renovated space, creating a
modern, thriving barbershop that remains fully booked. His expertise spans both
barbering and hairdressing, incorporating elements of precision cutting, longer
styles, and colouring into his hybrid approach.

Beyond the shop, Rob has shared his knowledge through stage work with Great British Barber Bash and as a coach for Learn to Cut, an online platform mentoring aspiring barbers to refine their skills and elevate their pricing. He also runs his own independent education courses, helping others unlock their potential.
Rob’s passion for creativity extends to photography and videography, complementing his social media presence.

Always eager to evolve, he continually invests in education and professional development.
Rob’s role as an OSMO ambassador will see him working closely with the brand to create content, attend industry events, and participate in brand shoots… including a
very exciting one, which is yet to be revealed!
“Rob’s expertise in barbering resonates with our passion towards the barbering industry. We’re excited to be working closely with Rob and seeing how his creative
skills help to build the OSMO brand and products to a wider barbering audience,” explains OSMO Senior Brand Manager, Sinéad McLaughlin.

www.osmo.uk.com
Instagram: @osmouk_official / @osmoikon / @_robweston/@level7barbers

BarberEVO UK Issue 52 is OUT NOW! 

This edition takes you right back to the heart of the barbering world – with Hayden Cassidy and her creative collaborators gracing our cover in a shoot that celebrates everything this industry stands for: collaboration, creativity, and the ultimate cool-kid vibes. 

ICON OF THE EDITION & BARBER ABROAD – 
This issue, we sit down with two global heavyweights: DL Master Barber and Fraser Forsey. From across the pond to down under, discover their journeys, their legacies, and what keeps them at the top. Plus, meet the team at Bros X CO as they share their experience in the Brosh Ambassadorship competition. 

TEXTURE – 
Texture takes centre stage as we chat to Franklyn Nnambdi about his rise in the industry, his views on texture, and life in the celebrity spotlight. We also spotlight Tariq Howes’ work on Ex the Barber for BaBylissPRO, before checking in with columnist Mark Maciver. Then, dive into a texture-focused conversation with Craig Fabio, who takes us behind the scenes of the Denman commercial shoot. And to round things off? We get In the Chair with Oliver Hill. 

CREATIVE – 
Our Creative section kicks off with the BaBylissPRO photoshoot and an in-depth chat with Ky Wilson on keeping creativity alive with the brand. We explore more creative energy with American Crew and Gamma+, before returning to our cover star Hayden Cassidy for the inside story on her game-changing, collaboration-fuelled shoot. And we’re not done yet – there’s plenty more inspiration from Cool Blades, OSMO, and Wahl. 

INTERIORS – 
Step inside our Barbershop of the Edition: Dean Gleeson Hair, a Japandi-style haven featuring stunning Takara Belmont chairs. We then discuss Additional Services with Stockholm by Ruger, and we take a trip to Spain to check out HAIR CVLTURE

BUSINESS – 
This issue’s business pages are packed with insight: from going Behind the Brand with the NHBF, to catching up with Morgan’s about their exciting new market in Japan. We also talk tech and trends with Barry Stephens. 

From global icons and industry-leading events to cutting-edge creativity, BarberEVO UK Issue 52 is your ultimate guide to what’s shaping barbering now – and what’s next. Dive in today! 

Marie Rainsford has become a trailblazing figure in the barbering world, rising quickly through the ranks with a dedication to her craft and a passion for education. From her early beginnings cutting men’s hair at home to becoming a lead educator at The OP45 Barberschool, Marie’s mission is clear: to shape the future of barbering by empowering others – and never stay stagnant.

Marie Rainsford is the name on everyone’s lips in the barbering world, and for good reason. With a career that has exploded over the past six years, this Irish-born barber has carved out a niche in a traditionally male-dominated industry. But what makes Marie more than just a skilled barber is her profound passion for education. A passion so deep, in fact, that it has transformed her career, from solely being behind the chair to a leading educator on the international stage. And her mission? To empower the next generation of barbers with the tools and mindset needed to succeed.

Curiosity and Courage

Whilst Marie’s journey into the hair world began in salons, where she worked as a stylist for 10 years – she was seemingly always cutting men’s hair… but in a rather unexpected place.

“I was always cutting men’s hair in my mum’s home growing up,” she recalled. “I probably shouldn’t have been doing it at that age, but it just felt right. That was my introduction to barbering.”

Whilst her early start in the craft of barbering wasn’t enough to sway her from starting off in salons, her passion for male grooming always remained – simmering beneath the surface, and waiting for the right moment to emerge. That moment came when she took a chance on a barbering job in Australia.

“It was a new barbershop opening up, and I thought, ‘Why not give it a go?’ I was already cutting men’s hair on my days off, so I thought, let’s see where this takes me!”

Since, she has never looked back. What began as a trial run turned into a full-fledged career in barbering, one that quickly took off when she made the decision to immerse herself fully in the craft, and move back to Limerick, Ireland.

Whilst it may seem that Marie’s rise in the industry has been rapid – with just six years of professional barbering to her name – Marie doesn’t attribute it to luck.

“I’ve been in the industry for 16 years now,” she emphasized. “It’s not just barbering; it’s years of hairdressing too. And really, it’s about never wanting to be stagnant. Honestly, stagnancy is my biggest fear. I constantly strive to get better, and that’s what drives me.”

Drive with a Purpose

For Marie, barbering isn’t just about cutting hair. It’s about nurturing growth in others.

“I really think my purpose in life is to be an educator. I love helping people become better versions of themselves, and showing them a simpler way of cutting hair that can genuinely change their whole career. Education, for me, is really about showing that there is a better way to understand and perform your craft,” she told me.

Marie’s role as lead educator for The OP45 Barberschool, where she champions the D.F.S cutting formula, is a testament to this. The D.F.S formula, according to Marie, is a game changer in the industry – and she noted, it was certainly a game-changer for her.

She said: “It’s an extremely simple formula for cutting hair, but we also work a lot on psychology and mindset. This industry is very much holistic, and I feel it’s time that we really recognise this. You need to know who you are and how you like to work, in order to make the formula work for you. The DSS formula is going to change the barbering industry, honestly. For me, it aligned me with the right people and gave me a deeper understanding of the craft.”

It’s clear that education is at the core of everything Marie does. Whether she’s on stage, in a classroom, or behind the chair, she’s sharing her knowledge and helping to elevate others. Her tours to colleges across the UK are part of this mission, and she’s dedicated to ensuring students are fully prepared for the real-world demands of a barbering career.

“Being in college, it often doesn’t prepare students for the real-life work in the barbershop. They’re there for two years, and then sent out into a strenuous career. I want students to leave our schools ready to be on the shop floor, gaining confidence and making a living – and that comes with a lot more than just practice cutting,” she said. “When you look at any other career path, there are often four-year courses, with follow-ups of internships and many more learning opportunities. Barbering should be taken as seriously as any other craft, and it’s up to us to make sure students are equipped for success. It’s about getting them to capitalise and nourish their potential.”

The Heart of Service

Marie’s commitment to education doesn’t stop at her students – it extends to her clients in the chair, too. For her, barbering is more than just delivering a good cut; it’s about delivering an exceptional service.

“Service is massive,” she said. “I charge a higher price point, but I can do that because I put in the effort to make my clients feel 100%. Every client gets a full consultation, product recommendations, scalp analysis, and a thorough styling lesson. A lot of barbers focus on doing a great fade, but it’s so important to look after the person in the chair. It’s about the entire service – including the aftercare. I mean, we’re a service industry, after all.”

Marie’s attention to detail and commitment to customer care is one of the many things that make her stand out in the crowded barbering industry. She offers a genderless pricing structure, making her services accessible and inclusive for everyone.

“Whether you have short hair, long hair, or something in between, I’ll take care of it. This approach has really worked for me! Chiefly, because it’s really opened up my clientele. I get a lot of older women coming to me for cool pixie cuts, not your typical ‘old lady’ style,” she explained. “I think it’s important to meet people where they are and give them what they want, not what society expects.”

Inspiring the Future Generation

As a female in an industry still dominated by men, Marie is breaking boundaries. But she was quick to downplay the gender divide.

“I think, whilst the industry is changing – it’s still important for barbers to realise, that gender isn’t relevant. I’m great at barbering! That’s that. I don’t see myself as a ‘female barber,’ I’m just a barber. I don’t put myself in any box. But, I still hope I can inspire other women to get into the industry because it’s such a great career with so many avenues to explore,” she said.

Before our conversation came to a close, and just as her next client was set to arrive, I asked Marie one last question. What’s your greatest piece of advice for aspiring barbers? In short, she told me: Stay open, stay curious, and never stop learning – adding: “You’re not going to be good at everything, and that’s okay. Focus on what you’re good at and get great at that.”

In a world where barbering is constantly evolving, Marie Rainsford is at the forefront, shaping the future of the craft with her scissors, her heart, and her desire to uplift others. With her unwavering dedication to growth and learning, it’s clear that this is just the beginning for Marie. The barbering world better keep watching – because Marie Rainsford is only just getting started.

The first Labour Budget since taking office was presented today, 30 October 2024, by the first female Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, in the Commons. 

Responding to the Budget statement, Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the National Hair & Beauty Federation said:

‘We asked the government for support for employers to counteract rising wages so we’re pleased that they have listened and responded with a rise in the Employment Allowance which will benefit some sector businesses, despite the rises to employers National Insurance contributions.

However, with 16%+ rises in the youth wage rates there was nothing on interim support for businesses training young people. The only ‘youth guarantee’ for our sector will be that small and micro employers won’t be able to afford to take on apprentices. This makes it even more vital that Skills England is responsive to the needs of our sector and the new Growth & Skills levy channels major support to incentivise small and micro businesses training apprentices.

We will engage constructively with the consultation around business rates reform and the decision to keep at least some support through a 40% Retail business rates discount and freeze of the small business multiplier is welcome and important in the interim. The government was silent on VAT but we will continue to push for reform which is the sector’s number one issue

While the Employment Allowance increase offers some breathing room, the dramatic rise in apprentice wages threatens to disrupt the traditional pathway into our Sector. Without targeted intervention, we risk creating a skills gap that could take years to bridge. The government’s approach to retail business rates shows they’re listening, but more comprehensive support is needed to ensure the sustainability of apprenticeships in hair and beauty.”

The summary of the Budget:

• Wage rates; 6.7% increase in National Living Wage, 16.3% increase in 18-20 rate, single adult rate ‘over time’
• Freeze on fuel duty in 2025 for another year
• Employers National Insurance contributions (NICs) increased by 1.2% to 15% from April 2025
• Reduce NICs threshold from £9,000 to £5,000  
• Increase Employment Allowance from £5,000 to £10,500
• Business rates: 40% relief for Retail and hospitality in 2025/26 and small business multiplier freeze
• Cap on corporation tax for the duration of this parliament
• National Insurance thresholds: No extension to freeze on personal tax thresholds from 2028-29; will rise in line with inflation in the future
• Largest real-term funding increase since devolution; £3.4 bn to Scotland through the Barnett formula, £1.7 bn to Welsh government and £1. 5bn to Northern Ireland in 2025/26
• £1.3 billion investment into connectivity in regional transport

The full details of the Budget can be found here.