
How to Build a Sustainable Beauty Career Without Burning Out
LifeSpa leader Ali Yanez explains why strong mentorship, predictable income, meaningful recognition and the right work environment help beauty professionals build careers that last.
Getting judged? MODERN was at the Goldwell Color Zoom Challenge in Berlin, Germany and I was on a panel of 9 industry experts judging the 75 semi-finalists from around the world.In my 33 years with MODERN I have judged possibly thousands of ...







Getting judged? MODERN was at the Goldwell Color Zoom Challenge in Berlin, Germany and I was on a panel of 9 industry experts judging the 75 semi-finalists from around the world.
In my 33 years with MODERN I have judged possibly thousands of competitions including everything from photo to nail to make up and even Miss Teen New Jersey. It is always an honor to be invited to judge and I take it quite seriously. I want everyone to win!!! But since everyone can't I wanted to give you the insider scoop on doing well.
Goldwell's Color Zoom is unique in that it has a photo and live element, all judged in one day. Fresh from Berlin, I wanted to share my latest top 5 TIPS on winning ANY beauty competition:
FOLLOW THE RULES: In many competitions there are several winning looks. Sometimes the judges have to eliminate a fantastic entry simply because the competitor did not follow the rules (example: using extensions when not allowed, entry arriving late, photoshop, etc.).
KNOW HOW YOU ARE BEING JUDGED: In one competition the judges were charged with checking on the competitors stations to make sure they were kept neat and professional during the competition. If possible, ask to see the scoring sheet to see what is most critical. Wouldn’t it be horrible if you lost points because your model put her coffee cup on your station?
WHO’S JUDGING?: This is key. If the judges are all consumer magazine editors, you may want to reign it in (They don't always understand strong haircolor and shape). If any of the judges are previous winners, check out their work.
GET THE BEST MODEL POSSIBLE: Make sure your model is best for the look you are creating. Although you don’t need a top model, pretty or interesting DOES help. Is height/weight important? Not in a photo competition, but in a live competition where a runway is involved, it seems the tall/thin models have an edge.
PAY ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS: Everything matters. You will get extra positive attention in a hair competition if the make up, nails and fashion work with your finish.
Check out this interview with Mark Leeson, a top artist and competitor, and fellow judge for the Goldwell Color Zoom Challenge. It’s short and filled with great tips. And really…if you are a colorist/stylist and NOT committed to a different color line…you MUST enter this competition. It’s fantastic!!!! For more details about the competition, go to: www.colorzoom.com

LifeSpa leader Ali Yanez explains why strong mentorship, predictable income, meaningful recognition and the right work environment help beauty professionals build careers that last.

Whether a beauty professional chooses a commission salon, booth rental, salon suite or salon ownership, the common thread is having more choices than ever before.

Sport Clips Haircuts will host its inaugural "Level Up Live," a first-of-its-kind virtual event that combines live haircutting education, career inspiration, product knowledge, and employment opportunities for licensed stylists and cosmetology students nationwide.

Orthopedic PT reveals three daily exercises plus ergonomic advice that can help salon professionals avoid the aches and injuries caused by standing, bending and repetitive overhead work.

Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!

Salon suite pioneer Karen Kaminski argues that the next evolution of independent beauty businesses won't be defined by beautiful spaces alone, it will be driven by smarter systems that help professionals spend less time on administrative work and more time serving clients.

At a time when many LGBTQ+ people felt compelled to hide parts of themselves, Carlos Valenzuela found a career in beauty and a community that offered opportunity based on what you could do and how well you could do it.

Whether it's social media, fashion, film, art, or culture, Chaz Dean advises stylists to stay aware of what's inspiring people. Take the elements that make sense for you in these five lessons learned through a life in beauty.

For Jessica Domoney, building a successful career isn't about saying yes to every opportunity, it's about protecting your time, investing in yourself and creating an experience clients won't forget.

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

"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic

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

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

Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.

Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.

From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.

A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.