
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.
Stylist Christine McMillen was in for a surprise when she posted a before-and-after of client Peachie. The NYC-based stylist works at Pembley and has been updating Peachie's short 'do for a while now, but this look caught our eye for ...

Before and after (photo credit: Instagram @christine.mcmillen)
Stylist Christine McMillen was in for a surprise when she posted a before-and-after of client Peachie. The NYC-based stylist works at Pembley and has been updating Peachie's short 'do for a while now, but this look caught our eye for its dramatic transformation.
Peachie's hair was cool and beautiful before; it suited her very well. This is a case, however, when sometimes it isn't broke and you still fix it—because the upgrade McMillen made to her client's hair was next-level gorgeous. The two took inspiration from a lavender hair picture and translated it for the short style.
After garnering more than 15,000 likes on @modernsalon's Instagram page, McMillen says, "Since this color has gotten so much love, thought I'd share the formula." We're glad she did!
Hair is first pre-lightened to a level 8.
Toner: Redken Shades EQ 1 oz 09B : .25 oz 07V
Formula 1:Wella Instamatic Smokey Amethyst and Muted Mauve all over.
"This plus our precious toner gave the perfect muted purple base to put something brighter over top," McMillen says.
Formula 2:Evo Fabuloso Pro Conditioner with Violet and Red, plusJoicoMagenta and Amethyst Purple mixed in "for a little more kick."
Pro tip: Olaplex #1 was used in everything except lightener. McMillen started a level 3 and didn't want to slow the lightening process.
Finish: 15 minutes Olaplex #2 treatment.

Top left: Inspiration color. Top mid: Wella Instamatic Smokey Amethyst and Muted Mauve. Top right: Evo Fabuloso Pro Conditioner Violet and Red, Joico Magenta and Amethyst.

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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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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