
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.
Two surveys show both clients and stylists are cozying up to curl products, services and education.

Nearly 2 out of 5 textured hair clients are quite happy with their curly hair. However, many love their curly hair some days, while it drives them crazy on others--indicating they still haven't found their perfect hair care products. Source: Getty Images
Texture is evolving into less of a trend and more of a lifestyle. It’s come to this: Women with naturally straight hair are the least likely of anyone to say they “wouldn’t change a thing” about their hair, according to a 2013 study of consumers conducted by Texture Media, Inc. But that doesn’t diminish how challenging textured hair can be. More than half of women with textured hair indicated on the survey that some days they’re happy with their hair, but other days their hair drives them crazy.
A separate study of hairdressers, conducted by MODERN SALON Media, offers hope that the number of textured clients’ happy hair days may soon increase: 80 percent of responding hairdressers expressed interest in receiving advanced education “specific to cutting, curling or styling curly hair.”
Already, 65 percent of stylists indicated that they consider themselves curl experts or specialists, and practically all survey respondents—98 percent—said they recommend special products to curly clients and regularly provide clients with advice on how to style their curly hair. Respondents identified their curlies as about one-third of all clientele.
Both surveys indicate that texture is a growing market. The consumer study concludes that “acceptance of natural texture is at an all-time high.” In fact, the tighter their curl, the more likely respondents were to wear their hair natural and to believe in the texture movement. Stylists are well-aware of this trend, with 90 percent of the stylist survey respondents predicting that “the ability to cut, curl and style curly hair” will be either somewhat or very important to growing their business and revenue in the future.
Nearly 40 percent of responding stylists reported that clients with naturally curly hair spend more than straight-haired clients; 44 percent said curly clients purchase more products than straight-haired clients.
Nearly 2 out of 5 textured hair clients are quite happy with their curly hair. However, many love their curly hair some days, while it drives them crazy on others--indicating they still haven't found their perfect hair care products.

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.

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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!
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