
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.
Jason Backe (@jasonbacke) knew exactly what he had to do when his client said during the consultation, "I'm ready for a change. I don't think people notice me." Backe, co-owner of the Ted Gibson Salons and brand ambassador for ...

Jason Backe (@jasonbacke) knew exactly what he had to do when his client said during the consultation, "I'm ready for a change. I don't think people notice me." Backe, co-owner of the Ted Gibson Salons and brand ambassador for L'Oreal Professionel, grabbed his red and got busy. Here he shares the how-to in his own words:
"For Caitlin's previously colored, level-4 hair, I needed to do a double process to get the vibrancy and intensity I was looking for," Backe says. "I started with the Multi Techniques Lightening Powder from L'oreal Pro Blond Studio with 40 volume on the mids and ends and 20 volume at the scalp. After that lifted to a level 7, I used Dia Light 7.40 with 15 volume to support the base color (fill). I dried the hair. On her new growth area, I used #INOA 6.64 in equal parts with 6n and 20 volume. On the mids and ends, I used INOA Carmilane 6.64 with 30 volume. I processed for 35 minutes, shampooed and glossed with Dia Light 5.66 and 15 volume."
Adds Backe, "Girl, they notice you now!"

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