
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.
Faatemah Ampey, 2010 Shear Genius contestant, talks about how she feels about her own textured, curly hair.

arrojo-cropped145
FAATEMAH AMPEY
2010 Shear Genius contestant, winner of NAHA 2009 in “Fashion Forward” category and blogger for modernsalon.com
Describe your hair:
“Currently natural, meaning no chemical straightener. Fine, but coarse and curly.”
How did you feel about your hair growing up and how has that changed since you became involved in the beauty industry?

faatemah-current145
Faatemah Ampey's curly hair as a kid
“My hair was always a mess! My mother often braided my hair or pressed it with a hot comb. But this didn’t affect my self esteem -- it’s hard to find a childhood picture of me not smiling. My messy hair may be the biggest reason I joined the beauty industry!”
What are the most important and interesting developments in hair texture today?
“Texture re-emerging as a trend is important. Stylists who are eager to stay in touch with fashion realize they need to learn new techniques for curly hair. No more triangular bobs for the curly girl! Companies have created better products customized to complement curly hair. Interesting? The ability to create texture where there was “none.” Angelo Seminara's work consistently inspires me.”
What type of products/tools and what amount of time do you spend on your hair on “curly” days and on “straight” days?
“I achieve my look by doing what I call a "water perm." Hair is shampooed and conditioned. Next, I apply Aveda's Phomollient, then section hair and set with various sizes of perm rods. Dry under hooded dryer, then finger-comb. I really like big hair that looks like it's been lived in a bit.
“To maintain my look, I use Aestelance Balm leave-in conditioner and Aveda's Brilliant Spray-On Shine. I also use Bumble & Bumble Hair powder to amp it up. This set requires weekly maintenance and some extensions for more glam!”
Other comments/observations on curly/textured hair?
“I really think it's important for women to embrace their hair texture regardless of what it may be. Trends are only to be used as guidelines. There's nothing sexier than defining your own style!”
More curly profiles:
![]() alison-curly145 | ![]() kevin-murphy-current145 | ![]() ouidad-current145 | ![]() lorraine-massey2-145 |
![]() decosta-current145 | ![]() faatemah-current | ![]() faatemah-kid |
*This article is related to the Texture! Guide. Click here to return to Texture!

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.