
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 “bigger-is-better” perms commonly associated with the ’80s might conjure up thoughts of tight, poodle curls, large metal rods and off-putting odors. But as perm technology has evolved and become more customizable, perms can be used to control texture, create natural looking waves or add volume to straight hair.

Hair: Robert Santana for Matrix | Photography: Teddy Maki
The “bigger-is-better” perms commonly associated with the ’80s might conjure up thoughts of tight, poodle curls, large metal rods and off-putting odors. But as perm technology has evolved and become more customizable, perms can be used to control texture, create natural looking waves or add volume to straight hair. The old permanent wave machine introduced in the 1920s used a combination of chemicals and electricity to curl the hair. To achieve the desired look of the time, clients sat under the machine for up to six hours while hair was heated to approximately 200 degrees. Advances in chemical technology have made the perm process much easier on hair. Improved solutions boasting built-in conditioners preserve strength and integrity while delivering consistent results. By varying rod size, solution strength and processing time, stylists can give clients a variety of options from big, tight curls to loose waves.
TOOLBOX
Goodbye Spiral, Hello Wave
The new twist in perming is all about adding definition and creating soft texture.



Zotos Quantum Classic Body Matrix's Opti. Effects CHI Ionic Permanent Shine Wave System by Farouk Quantum Classic Body is an acid perm that creates soft, supportive body & supportive waves for a “non-permed” look.Quantum perms are formulated with Equalizer 3™ conditioner to balance porosity for even, predictable wave formation. Matrix’s Opti.Effects has no residual odor and can create coiled, full curls or loose, modern waves.
CHI’s Ionic Permanent Shine Wave System is a gentle, ammonia-free formula that works to maintain optimum moisture levels.



Permanent Wave System by Paul Mitchell Pravana's Beach Waves American Wave by Arrojo Paul Mitchell’s Permanent Wave System offers three formula types for colored, gray and normal to fine hair. Pravana’s Beach Wave is a semipermanent texture infusion tool and service designed to provide a longlasting, soft, natural wave. Beach Wave creates soft, subtle waves that can be worn natural or styled with a curling iron for a more elegant, tighter curl. Using an ionic waving lotion, the American Wave by Arrojo penetrates the hair shaft gently without roughing the cuticle or making it swell, which is what perms used to do.

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.

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.

From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.

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.
Sponsored by Great Clips

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.

Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.

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!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty