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Kayla Ontko, a Solo Artist at Studio Mint of Phix Salon Suites in Strongsville, Ohio, and a working hairdresser for eight years, has been renting for just one year. She graduated from Normandy High School in Parma, Ohio, which has a vocational cosmetology program for 11th and 12th graders. Initially “terrified” to go solo, she now says, “Nothing is more rewarding than having complete freedom to give my clients beautiful and creative trends day after day.”

A true specialist in dimensional color, Ontko employs various colors (she uses Kenra, Joico. Schwarzkopf, Rusk and/or Goldwell, depending on what’s right for the job) and techniques to give almost all her clients a taste of ombre.

Explains Ontko, “I am lucky enough to have clients of all ages who love the artistic range, from loud fashion tones to classic natural ones. This is one of reasons I love the variety of looks you can create with ombre. You can use transitioning formulations that are close to natural Level to achieve soft dimension with light contours, or blend in bright tones for more of a color pop. I don't think ombre will ever go out of style because of its versatility, which makes it appropriate for any one.”

Ontko also enjoys how ombre takes on different looks, depending on how it’s styled. From textured braids to sleek, polished blow-outs, she loves style-shifting, to show her clients all the ways that allow dimensional color and ombre techniques to suit their personal preferences and lifestyles. Most recently, she completed a Vidal Sassoon cutting course in Chicago. You can follow her on Instagram @mintbyko.

Solo Artist wants to see and share YOUR work! Please send your favorite Solo Snaps (a collection or single images of a client makeover) to soloartist@vancepublishing.com and include “Solo Artist Solo Snaps” in the subject line. Please include any info on formula, technique, photo credits, etc., and the best phone number for the SOLO ARTIST Editor to contact you. Also, please submit 2-3 paragraphs about yourself - (this may include your artistic style, specialties and information on your chair & suite).

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