
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.
This "Groovy" look is brought to life by mixing CND Additives with Brisa Gel to create a bright, tie-dye effect. This is a super easy technique that anyone can do. Create bold statements or try with softened tones for more subtle design.

Step 2
This "Groovy" look is brought to life by mixing CND Additives with Brisa Gel to create a bright, tie-dye effect. This is a super easy technique that anyone can do.
With multiple design possibilities, you can create your own customized signature colors and textures. Additive colors come three different categories: Pigments (Yellow, Bright Red, Black, Medium Green), Pigment Effects (Cerulean Blue, Haute Pink, Antique Bronze, Violet Pearl, Titanium Pearl) and Effects (Pink Gold Sparkle, Green Gold Sparkle and Spectrum Shimmer).
"Additives give nail professionals endless choices to artistically dazzle their clients—both figuratively and literally,” says CND co-founder, Jan Arnold.
Try it!
STEP 1: Prep the natural nail and apply a CND Clear Tip. Apply a Brisa Clear Gel enhancement and finish with the 180 side of the Blizzard File.
STEP 2: Apply two layers of Pure White Brisa Paint over the entire nail. Cure each layer for two minutes in the CND UV Lamp.
STEP 3: Mix Additives Brisa Gloss and Brisa Pure White Paint in a mixing tray to create the designs colors. Gently stir together using a spatula or an orangewood stick until thoroughly mixed. Use a slow, steady motion to avoid creating bubbles. To maintain the integrity of the enhancement, never mix more than 30 percent Additives to any gel blend.
Bright Yellow: 3 parts Brisa Gloss, 1 part Brisa Paint Pure White
Electric Blue: 3 parts Brisa Gloss, 1/2 part Brisa Paint Pure White, 1 part Additives Cerulean Blue
STEP 4: Use the Gel Flat Oval brush with a light touch and apply the Electric Blue gel to the enhancement. Float the gel from side-to-side to create the design. Add small details to the sides of the nail. Lock for 10 seconds in the CND UV Lamp.
STEP 5: Thoroughly clean the brush. Apply the Hot Pink gel with the same side-to-side floating technique, overlapping a portion of the blue. Add small details to the sides of the nail. Lock for 10 seconds in the CND UV Lamp.
STEP 6: Thoroughly clean the brush. Finish the color blend with the Bright Yellow gel, overlapping a portion of the pink. Add small details to the sides of the nail. Cure the design for two minutes in the CND UV Lamp.

Step 2

Step 3

Step 4

Step 4

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