MENU
SEARCHThe International Salon and Spa Expo (ISSE) brought the acclaimed North American Hairstyling Awards (NAHA) and Beacon to the event for the first-time ever.
Haircolor education with Marco Pelusi at ISSE
Professional Beauty Industry
The International Salon and Spa Expo (ISSE), the largest cash-and-carry professional beauty event on the West Coast, celebrated the 20th anniversary of the show January 26th - January 28, 2019 at the Long Beach Convention Center. Produced by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) trade organization representing the entire beauty industry, this year PBA merged their three biggest shows--ISSE, the North American Hairdressing Awards or NAHA, and Beacon-- for the first time ever.
With over 300 exhibitors in attendance and over 200 complementary and premium haircutting and styling, color, makeup artistry, business, and skin and nail care classes, ISSE introduced guests to new and innovative beauty products providing endless inspiration to boost attendee’s careers and creativity. The show brought together thousands of beauty professionals, influencers, educators, and other leading beauty figures from across the country to experience enriching educational classes, celebrate creativity, and shop the latest and greatest tools, products, and techniques featured on the exhibit floor.
"Now in its 20th year, the International Salon and Spa Expo remains the showcase event for the licensed beauty professiona," says Steve Sleeper, Executive Director of the Professional Beauty Association. "Through the newest and most innovative education, opportunities to connect face to face with brands, and three days of personal connection with peers across the country, ISSE embodies the heart and soul of the professional beauty industry."
Some of ISSE’s top highlights included:
● Awards: Best Booth award series recognized the most innovative and spirited exhibitor booths on the show floor.
● Competitions: The Major League Barber Brawl and Nail Competition were inspiring events for competitors and spectators, alike. Barber Brawl categories included Best Fade with Beard, Original Female Best Fade and Style, and more. The Nail Competition categories included Fantasy Nail Art, Chrome/Stamping among others.
● Live Stage Presentations: Two major draws of this event, the Inspiration Stage and Center Stage, showcased live demonstrations by well known brands including Matrix Remix, Ted Gibson EDU, Mainentrance, Blushes Salon, etc.
● Charitable Activations: PBA included new fundraising opportunities to the show which benefited charities like the Disaster Relief Fund, through a beauty bar, and CUT IT OUT, through a custom braid bar led by Jenny Strebe @confessionsofahairstylist and her influencer (including Larisa Love and Shelley Gregory) friends .
● The HUB by PBA: Headquarters for all things Professional Beauty Association, the Hub featured special interactive photo ops (props included), the PBA Membership booth, Government Affairs station, PBA Insurance Marketplace and the Beauty Cast Network Career Fair.
Launched in 1999 as the International Cosmetology Expo and later renamed in 2001, the International Salon and Spa expo is an international platform for Salon and Spa professionals and businesses bringing creative professionals the latest trends, newest products and live in-person education meant to help build careers and businesses. In 2019, ISSE aims to shift the focus away from product purchase and into innovative education to attract new generations of licensed professionals.
Dominique LyVar, an influential educator and artist, is remembered by those who loved him for his significant impact on the industry and contributions to the community.
Known for his buttery blondes and a technique for highlighting hair with more precision that he called chunking, Brad Johns died on August 27. His friend and fellow colorist, David Stanko, shares thoughts on his talented colleague and close friend.
As technology evolves at an accelerated rate, you want to make sure you have the best in your business toolkit to help you grow sales, motivate your team, communicate with your current and future clientele, and streamline your managerial tasks. The 2026 SALON TODAY Technology Solutions Guide is designed to help you navigate today's growing landscape of salon and spa technology. In this guide, you'll find a curated look at more than 50 of the latest software platforms, digital solutions, and innovative features to help you compare options and identify the best fit for your business.
The Davines Edit reflects the brand’s passion for people and planet.
RÜTE Wash introduces a shower cap designed specifically for crown washing, helping clients with hair extensions cleanse the scalp while protecting the lengths from water.
Premiere San Antonio Presented by SalonCentric returns for its fourth edition August 30-31 at the Henry B. González Convention Center, delivering its biggest and boldest event to date.
One-Day Personal and Professional Development Education Event for Beauty Professionals Set for October 25, 2026, at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue.
A live education series explores the ideas, collaboration, creative decisions and processes behind the winning work.
According to the report, people are moving away from copy-paste trends and toward community, using real experiences to develop a sense of taste and beauty that reflects who they are.
Hairstylists and barbers can showcase their creative and technical vision in two global categories with cash prizes and a chance to represent in Portugal.
The BBR Beauty Show featured a prominent speaker lineup including Lacy Redway, Karrueche Tran, Danessa Myricks, Chelley B., Sabrina Elba, Jessica Harris-Dupart, and more.
The Professional Beauty Association and Pivot Point team up to develop an ongoing study that measures the confidence of salon owners, stylists, school owners, and students.
This shared recognition celebrates the strength of industry collaboration in advancing professional mobility.
In Dubai, a salon visit isn’t an appointment. It’s a weekly routine, and clients can spend $800 to $1,400 a month on it, according to Gaurav Tripathi of MADI International. On October 6-8, 2026, the market behind those numbers opens its doors as Beautyworld Dubai marks its 30th edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together distributors, brands, stylists and salon owners from all over the world.
Sponsored by BeautyWorld Dubai
The Good Patch is a leading wearable wellness patch brand, offering wellness and skincare patches that support everyday needs including energy, sleep, relaxation and more.
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
Ulta Beauty has announced its partnership with Black Beauty Roster to launch the pilot of All Textures Certification (ATC). The new program is aimed at addressing gaps in education within the beauty industry and raising the level of skills and guest satisfaction for all.
