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Bushy Beards Make a Comeback for 2026: Hair Surgeon Shares 5 Ways to Improve Yours

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.

Glasgow Welcomes Garçon – Born to Become 

 A destination salon in the heart of Glasgow’s Merchant City. Offering a completely personalised approach to hair and beauty for the individual. A place to relax and leave rejuvenated. 

Formerly known as NineteenTwenty salon, Grant Carr has opened up the business and his apprentice, Ray Murdoch, has joined the business as co-owner. This new partnership marks the start of a new era and Garçon is born. Talking about the change Grant explains “Together we had already been re-directing the business for a more combined wellbeing approach over the last 12 months and the new name and look encapsulates and defines the buzz we have created.” 

Ray added “The meaning behind the new name reflects our inner drive and curiosity to become something greater; masters of our craft. Having worked so closely with Grant for the last ten years, I am equally as passionate about the future of Garçon.” 

The team welcomed clients and Glasgow’s finest to their exclusive opening event on 5th March at the flagship salon and an afterparty at their neighbour and exclusive kloud with RendezVous bringing the party vibes. 

Working with leading haircare brands including Aveda and L’Oreal, the highly skilled team offer a range of hair and beauty services. Combining additional services such as sports therapy and aesthetics for busy clients, building a feel-good routine into their lifestyle and wellbeing. 


 Follow @garcon.glasgow 

NHBF Welcomes Government Investment in Youth Employment and Apprenticeships

The National Hair & Beauty Federation (NHBF) welcomes the Government’s announcement of a £900 million expansion of the Youth Guarantee and wide-ranging reforms to the apprenticeship system changes that should prove positive for the hair, beauty, barbering and aesthetics sector across the UK.

Announced on 16th March 2026, the package represents the most significant reshaping of youth employment and skills policy in recent years. For a sector that has long championed entry-level employment, on-the-job learning, and entrepreneurship, the NHBF believes these reforms could help unlock substantial new talent for businesses, if implemented effectively. 

Youth Guarantee and Jobs Incentives

The expansion of the Jobs Guarantee Scheme to include 22 to 24 year olds is particularly welcome news. Hair & beauty businesses, the majority of which are small or micro-enterprises, frequently say the cost and risk of taking on young staff is a barrier to recruitment. New hiring incentives for employers recruiting young people on Universal Credit who are at risk of long-term unemployment could make a real difference for salon, barbershop and clinic owners willing to invest in the next generation.

Caroline Larissey, Chief Executive of the NHBF, commented:

“Hair & beauty is one of the most powerful vehicles we have for getting young people into skilled, fulfilling work. We welcome any policy that lowers the barrier for businesses to say yes to a young person who is ready to learn. The expanded Youth Guarantee, combined with incentives for smaller employers, is a step in the right direction and we look forward to working with Government to ensure our sector can access every benefit available.”

Hair & Beauty has a workforce which is more than 85% female, so any support given to the sector benefits a population who have been historically underserved by the Government.

Apprenticeship Reform: What It Means for Hair and Beauty

The Growth and Skills Levy reforms bring both opportunity and challenge for the sector. From April 2026, the Government will introduce further incentives for non-levy paying employers, which accounts for the vast majority of hair & beauty businesses, who recruit 16 to 24 year old apprentices. This is a direct response to longstanding calls from the NHBF and the sector for a system that works for small employers.

More than 80% of hair & beauty businesses employ fewer than five people, and 95% employ fewer than ten.

However, the latest State of the Sector Survey report from the NHBF shows that 69% of businesses said it was more difficult to find staff than 12 months earlier, so there’s a clear need for Government support.

Key changes relevant to hair & beauty employers include:

  • Additional financial incentives for non-levy* employers hiring 16–24 year old apprentices, launching from April 2026. (*those with an annual wage bill of less than £3 million – so the majority of the sector).
  • Foundation Apprenticeships expanding into hospitality and retail sectors from April 2026 — sectors that share the workforce pipeline with hair and beauty and offer comparable entry-level pathways.
  • A new Level 2 Administrative Assistant Apprenticeship aimed at 16–24 year olds, available for starts from 1st August 2026, creating additional opportunities for young career starters in salon and clinic support roles (such as receptionist)
  • Streamlining of the apprenticeship offer, reducing over 700 standards to focus funding on young people and critical skills. Hair and beauty apprenticeship standards are not among those being withdrawn.
  • Apprenticeship Units launching from April 2026, allowing employers to use levy funding for flexible workforce training for the first time. The initial seven units focus on engineering and digital sectors, but the NHBF will engage with Skills England on future units relevant to hair and beauty.

Important Information fo Levy Funding Employers (ie those paying over £3 million in wages)

While welcoming the investment, the NHBF draws the sector’s attention to changes that will affect how levy funds are managed from August 2026:

  • The expiry period for new levy funds will reduce from 24 months to 12 months (applying only to funds entering accounts from 1st August 2026).
  • The 10% monthly top-up on levy accounts will be removed for new funds from 1 August 2026.
  • The employer co-investment rate, once levy funds are exhausted, will change from 95%/5% to 75%/25% from August 2026 for new apprentices. Existing apprentices on programme retain the 95% government contribution.

The NHBF strongly encourages levy-paying members to review their current apprenticeship plans in light of these changes and to seek guidance before August 2026.

NHBF Response and Next Steps

The NHBF will be monitoring implementation closely and engaging with Skills England and the Department for Education to ensure that hair, beauty, barbering and aesthetics businesses are able to access the full range of support available. 

We will publish guidance for members and the wider sector as further details emerge, including on funding rates for Apprenticeship Units (expected April 2026) and on training provider conditions (confirmed 30thMarch 2026).

Members with questions about how these changes affect their business are encouraged to contact the NHBF membership team or visit nhbf.co.uk for the latest guidance.

Premiere Beauty Shows and SalonCentric Announce Strategic Partnership for Premiere San Antonio 2026

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.

Defining Men’s Hair Cuts and Styles from the 2026 Academy Awards 

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.

Courtesy of Temeka Jackson (@customtnails1)
  1. 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. 
Courtesy of Aika Flores (@by.aikaflores) on Instagram
  1. 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.

Courtesy of Candice Birns (@hairbycandicebirns) on Instagram
  1.  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

Courtesy of Candice Birns (@hairbycandicebirns) on Instagram
  1. 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 OilBeard Conditioner and Trimmer SE as well as Toppik Hair Building Fibers and Fiberhold Spray for a fuller, camera-ready finish to his grooming. 

Courtesy of Tasha Reiko Brown (@tashareikobrown) on Instagram
  1. 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. 

Courtesy of Christine Nelli (@nellichristine) on Instagram
  1. 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. 

Courtesy of Christine Nelli (@nellichristine) on Instagram
  1. 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.

Courtesy of @wendiandnicole on Instagram
  1. 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. 

Courtesy of Kara Yoshimoto Bua (@karayoshimotobua) on Instagram
  1. 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 HanzoOribe, and STMNT Grooming

Courtesy of Penkse Media via Getty Images
  1. 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. 

Courtesy of Coco Ullrich (@cocoullrich) on Instagram

Mr. Barbers Opens Sawbridgeworth Location

BarberEVO chatted with Josh Porter to learn more about the process for bringing his Mr Barbers Sawbridgeworth location from a dream to a reality.

Josh Porter has worked at Mr. Barbers for about seven years. He started at the Bishop’s Stortford shop, learning the business, standards, and services the UK barbershop franchise is known for. Now, with the help of the owner Karl Foster, he’s opening his own location in his hometown of Sawbridgeworth. “I’ve lived here all my life, so opening a shop in the town means a lot to me:” Josh reflects. 

BarberEVO chatted with Josh to learn more about the process for bringing his location from a dream to a reality. 

Josh told us that he’s always wanted to open his own shop, doing so with Mr. Barbers is an added bonus. 

“It’s a brand I’ve been part of for years and really believe in,” he reflects: “Karl and the team have been really supportive throughout the whole process. From planning the shop to getting everything ready for opening, they’ve helped guide me and made the whole experience much smoother.” 

During the process for the build out, Josh made sure to make his location feel like home while still preserving the Mr. Barber’s brand identity. 

“Being involved in the process meant I could add some of my own ideas while still keeping the clean, professional look people expect from a Mr. Barbers’ shop:” he explained. 

The location had its grand opening at the beginning of the month. Josh described the shop as “modern, clean and welcoming,” adding: “The aim was to create a space where customers feel comfortable as soon as they walk through the door.” 

Now that the location is open to customers, Josh is excited to be a part of the local community: “It’s great to see familiar faces coming into the shop and meeting new customers as well.” 

Going forward, Josh is looking forward to building a strong team and continuing to grow his location.

You can learn more about Mr Barbers and its locations by visiting its website. 

Novo Cabelo announces winner of inaugural awards

Novo Cabelo has announced Steven Goldsworthy as the winner of its first ever Stylist of the Year Award, unveiled during a live online ceremony hosted by founder Rob Wood.

The award marks a significant moment for the company, celebrating not only technical excellence in hair systems, but also the compassion, consultation standards and ongoing client care that sit at the heart of the Novo Cabelo philosophy.

Steven, a trained trichologist, was recognised for his ethical approach to hair loss solutions and his commitment to supporting clients throughout every stage of their journey.

Steven said: “As a Trichologist, my role in hair loss has always been to identify the underlying cause, advise on preventative measures, and, in extreme cases, refer clients for a hair transplant. However, transplantation is not always the right solution, and I felt strongly that there was a gap in care where many clients were being left without a suitable alternative.

After months of research, I discovered Novo Cabelo, which at the time was a relatively new company. I followed their work closely, watched their social platforms, and eventually reached out to undertake their training. Once we began offering hair systems, the response was overwhelming. We were inundated with enquiries and quickly built a large, loyal client base.

Hair systems are not for everyone, and we are always completely upfront about the costs and ongoing maintenance. I often compare the decision to Botox versus a facelift: one is temporary but still a significant investment, while the other is permanent, surgical, very expensive and irreversible.

Winning this award is a wonderful tribute to my amazing system clients and, most importantly, gives future clients confidence that they are in safe, experienced hands, receiving both an exceptional service and a high quality solution.”

Hosted online by Novo Cabelo founder Rob Wood, the event brought together stylists from across the network to recognise excellence in a sector that has historically lacked structured education and ongoing professional support.

Rob Wood said: “This award is about far more than hair. It is about restoring confidence, identity and dignity for people who have experienced hair loss. Steven represents everything 

Novo Cabelo stands for: integrity, care, innovation and a deep understanding of the emotional journey our clients are on.

When we launched Novo Cabelo, our mission was to raise standards within the hair system industry and remove any stigma around wearing hair. That starts with education, aftercare and supporting our stylists so they can support their clients properly. Steven embodies that standard.”

Since launching its training programme, Novo Cabelo has focused on transforming the perception of hair systems within the wider hair industry. By prioritising in depth consultation processes, structured aftercare, scalp health and system safe product development, the company has built a reputation for innovation rooted in client wellbeing.

The introduction of the Stylist of the Year Award signals the brand’s ongoing commitment to recognising professionals who deliver not only outstanding transformations, but also long term care and transparency.

As Novo Cabelo continues its expansion across the UK and into Europe, the annual awards are set to become a cornerstone moment in celebrating the stylists who are reshaping the future of modern hair replacement.

Men’s Spring Hair Trends for 2026

Spring is in the air and that means as well as refreshing your wardrobe, your hair deserves a seasonal upgrade too. This spring, men’s hair trends are all about blending timeless styles with bold, modern touches. From effortless texture to statement cuts, this spring is the perfect time to change up your look. 

Curtain Fringes

Curtain fringes are making a serious comeback this spring, offering the perfect mix of retro flair and modern edge. Characterised by their slightly off-centre parting, the hair flows and frames the face, working well for those with straight or slightly wavy hair. What makes curtain fringes so appealing is their versatility. They can be worn sleek and polished or tousled and textured. With the right cut and styling, a curtain fringe can add movement and dimension to your hair, making it a must-try for spring. 

Mod Cut

Defined by its sharp lines, cropped sides and slightly longer top sections, the mod cut steps back into the spotlight this spring. It’s sharp and structured silhouette demands attention without shouting for it. The beauty of the mod cut lies in its adaptability, slicking it back exudes confidence and polish, whereas a textured, tousled mod adds personality and edge. This spring is all about versatility and men’s styles that are both timeless and fresh.

Frosted Tips

Frosted tips are bringing a playful, eye-catching twist to men’s hairstyles this spring. Its lighter ends contrast with your natural hair, adding dimension and personality without needing a complete style overhaul. This style is perfect for those who want to experiment with colour, while keeping their cut simple. Frosted tips can be subtle for a modern, refined look or more pronounced for a statement-making, nostalgic vibe. This spring, frosted tips prove that even small pops of colour can make a big difference.

Coloured Buzz Cut

The coloured buzz cut is taking men’s hair to a new level this spring, combining minimalism with bold self-expression. It’s short, uniform length makes it low maintenance, but by adding a pop of colour, it is instantly transformed into a bold, statement look. This style is perfect for those looking for an effortless style that is unforgettable, offering a contrast between simplicity and creativity. With the dyed buzz cut, spring has become the season to experiment fearlessly, proving that even shorter styles can have maximum impact.

Meet the Founders and Creators Redefining the Beauty Industry

The beauty and barbering world is changing fast. The most influential professionals are no longer just stylists or barbers. They’re founders, educators, creators and brand builders with global audiences.

Fresha, the world’s leading beauty and wellness booking platform, is bringing some of those voices together through the expansion of its global Brand Ambassador programme, welcoming a new generation of industry talent helping redefine what success in beauty looks like.

From multi-location salon owners and global educators to founders of grooming brands and academies, the newest ambassadors represent a wave of professionals building businesses that extend far beyond the chair.

Collectively, the new cohort reaches more than 200 million people online each month, reflecting the growing cultural influence of beauty professionals who have become creators, entrepreneurs and industry leaders in their own right.

Meet the operators shaping the next era of beauty

Leading the expansion is Josh Lamonaca, co-founder of MENSPIRE and one of the most recognisable figures in modern barbering. A British Men’s Hairdresser of the Year and now Fresha’s Head of Hair Education, Lamonaca has helped turn barbering into a global education movement.

“We’re at a turning point,” Lamonaca said. “The next generation of leaders won’t just be known for their craft, but for how intelligently they build and scale their businesses.”

Joining him is Chloe Ferry, founder of The Beauté Lounge, who brings major cultural visibility alongside the experience of building a consumer beauty brand from the ground up.

The ambassador network also welcomes:

Thaddeus Jayaseelan, founder of barbering academy Gradient and a rising voice in education-led barbering

Andrea Amighetti, a respected multi-location salon owner and educator operating across Europe

Alexi Michael, founder of the global barber education platform Learn to Cut

Jordan Tabakman, an Australian entrepreneur operating businesses across multiple markets

Kochi Faraj, founder of Kochi Dubai and haircare brand Kochi Haircare

Yadiel Alberto Rodriguez (A-Rod), co-founder of international grooming brand L3VEL3

Across salons, academies, product brands and social platforms, these operators represent the modern blueprint for success in the industry.

“As an entrepreneur, alignment matters,” said Thaddeus Jayaseelan. “Fresha represents simplicity, structure and growth, and helps barbers unlock their business potential without costly mistakes.”

Where creativity meets infrastructure

The beauty industry has always been driven by talent. What’s changing is how that talent builds and scales businesses.

Today’s professionals are managing global audiences, launching product lines, opening multiple locations and running education platforms alongside their day-to-day work. Technology is increasingly what enables that growth.

Through Fresha’s platform, ambassadors use integrated booking, payments, reporting and marketplace tools to manage operations and understand customer behaviour as their brands expand.

“At scale, talent alone isn’t enough. Structure is everything,” said Andrea Amighetti.
“Fresha gives our business the visibility needed to grow across multiple locations without compromising quality.”

A global community of beauty leaders

The newest ambassadors join an established group of partners already helping shape the programme, including Sam Bentham (Rascals Barbershop)Mark Maciver (SliderCuts)Hester Wernert-Rijn (Mogeen)Lydia Wolfe, and Jack Mead.

Together they represent a growing global community of professionals pushing the industry forward, combining creativity, entrepreneurship and influence.

“Fresha is rapidly transforming the United States and Canada,” said Alexi Michael. “It’s becoming the system of choice across the industry because the product continues to evolve and support businesses month after month.”

With more than 140,000 partner businesses worldwideFresha continues to invest in the professionals shaping the next chapter of the selfcare economy.

FATBOY’S HONEY PUTTY BRINGS SCALP CARE INTO YOUR HAIR STYLING ROUTINE THIS SPRING

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/