
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.
Fresh off the showfloor at the International Salon and Spa Expo in Long Beach, California, I'm feeling excited, I'm feeling eager to visit more booths, and I'm feeling even more passionate! This industry is always changing and there is always something new to learn and it makes every booth an educational experience!









Fresh off the showfloor at the International Salon and Spa Expo in Long Beach, California, I'm feeling excited, I'm feeling eager to visit more booths, and I'm feeling even more passionate! This industry is always changing and there is always something new to learn and it makes every booth an educational experience!
The nail booths are, as always, packed with shoppers ready to snatch up this season's latest hot shades. Last year, it was all about Crackle, Shatter and UV-cured polishes. Now, it's all about the spring colors--pops of teals, yellows, greens and pinks.
Platform artists have taken over the stages, fresh with new tips and tricks to achieve the perfect texture using a combination of styling products and thermal tools. They use flatirons to create bouncy curls, and curling irons to create sleek waves.
Feathers are still a big hit with the crowds--but the feather extension craze seems to have died down a bit, perhaps due to supply and demand, but feather accessories have made an appearance in headbands, earrings, and now even seen on prints for blow dryers and tote bags.
It seems "organic" continues to be a big industry buzz word--new product formulations to wow health-conscious clients and professionals have been cropping up and gaining a lot of attention.
It's been an exciting day and I'll be sure to report back on what we discover during the three days at ISSE. Stay tuned!

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!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty