
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.
Kayla Ontko, a Solo Artist at Studio Mint of Phix Salon Suites in Strongsville, Ohio, and a working hairdresser for eight years, has been renting for just one year.






Kayla Ontko, a Solo Artist at Studio Mint of Phix Salon Suites in Strongsville, Ohio, and a working hairdresser for eight years, has been renting for just one year. She graduated from Normandy High School in Parma, Ohio, which has a vocational cosmetology program for 11th and 12th graders. Initially “terrified” to go solo, she now says, “Nothing is more rewarding than having complete freedom to give my clients beautiful and creative trends day after day.”
A true specialist in dimensional color, Ontko employs various colors (she uses Kenra, Joico. Schwarzkopf, Rusk and/or Goldwell, depending on what’s right for the job) and techniques to give almost all her clients a taste of ombre.
Explains Ontko, “I am lucky enough to have clients of all ages who love the artistic range, from loud fashion tones to classic natural ones. This is one of reasons I love the variety of looks you can create with ombre. You can use transitioning formulations that are close to natural Level to achieve soft dimension with light contours, or blend in bright tones for more of a color pop. I don't think ombre will ever go out of style because of its versatility, which makes it appropriate for any one.”
Ontko also enjoys how ombre takes on different looks, depending on how it’s styled. From textured braids to sleek, polished blow-outs, she loves style-shifting, to show her clients all the ways that allow dimensional color and ombre techniques to suit their personal preferences and lifestyles. Most recently, she completed a Vidal Sassoon cutting course in Chicago. You can follow her on Instagram @mintbyko.
Solo Artist wants to see and share YOUR work! Please send your favorite Solo Snaps (a collection or single images of a client makeover) to soloartist@vancepublishing.com and include “Solo Artist Solo Snaps” in the subject line. Please include any info on formula, technique, photo credits, etc., and the best phone number for the SOLO ARTIST Editor to contact you. Also, please submit 2-3 paragraphs about yourself - (this may include your artistic style, specialties and information on your chair & suite).

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.