Modern Salon
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Solo Snaps by Kayla Ontko: Ombre for All

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.

October 15, 2015
Solo Snaps by Kayla Ontko: Ombre for All
Solo Snaps by Kayla Ontko: Ombre for All
Solo Snaps by Kayla Ontko: Ombre for All
Solo Snaps by Kayla Ontko: Ombre for All
Solo Snaps by Kayla Ontko: Ombre for All
Solo Snaps by Kayla Ontko: Ombre for All
1/6
2 min to read


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.

Ad Loading...

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).

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

More Career

Ad Loading...
Michelle Bowden works on a hair piece on a mannequin
Career|Articles|Apr 15, 2026

How Michelle Bowden Had a Breakout Year (and How Other Stylists Can, Too)

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.

Ad Loading...
Career|Articles|Jan 9, 2026

Beautiful Careers Happen Here

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

Ad Loading...