
Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
The new androgynous, under layered short cuts with polish are trending from photo shoots to celebrities. See which of your favorite celebs have been spotted with the trend.











The new androgynous, under layered short cuts with polish are trending from photo shoots to celebrities. Think classic 1930’s male silhouettes with shorter sides and longer tops, as seen on HBO’s Boardwalk Empire. The cut can be anything from a short punk rock razor cut, to a traditional pixie cut to a full on buzz cut from a barber shop. The main feature is that it is a short hair cut, and sexually ambiguous, and it can be worn messy and spiky or sleek and chic.
“I typically approach cutting a short under layer cut with a razor because it allows me to create a more pliable edge, which gives nice structure and soft movement, but the integrity of fine lifted hair can be compromised with a razor, so I recommend using a blending shear for high lift, fine haired blondes.” —Sam Villa, Redken Education Artistic Director.
“When giving a client the androgynous hair cut, it is important to maintain a softer hairline as well as softer sideburns than when giving this cut to men. Add more texture in the cut, using a variety of texturizing blades and continue to use women’s products when styling.” —Naz Kupelian, RUSK International Creative Team Member
“Like most trends, everything is cyclical and what goes around always comes around again. It was a great look on Twiggy in the ‘60s, also on Annie Lennox in the ‘80s. We've been seeing a big resurgence of ‘punk’ style in fashion both on the runways and in magazines lately. Historically, when women have cut their hair short, it has often been a declaration of personal style. With the lines between male and female gender roles being so blurred these days, a lot of women are embracing this trend of short hair and having a lot of fun with it.” —Brian Magallones, René Furterer Celebrity Stylist
“Keeping up with a shorter style doesn’t have to be a chore. Strategic styles and cutting techniques can make a huge difference in how the hair looks 4, 5 or even 6 weeks later. Styling products play a massive role as short cuts begin to transform from week to week. Hollywood starlets are redefining the typical feminine ideal with sharper looks that make a statement but still have that classic feminine beauty.” —Lissette Cruz, Pravana Artistic Educator

MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.

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Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.

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This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.

Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
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Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.

These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.

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Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.

In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.

Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.

Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
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