MENU
SEARCHKatlin Starks (@hairbykatlin), a master stylist and co-owner of M&K Studio Salon in Albuquerque, NM, shares the details for this gorgeous makeover that we found on her Instagram page. "My client had virgin hair except for the old brassy ...
Katlin Starks (@hairbykatlin), a master stylist and co-owner of M&K Studio Salon in Albuquerque, NM, shares the details for this gorgeous makeover that we found on her Instagram page. "My client had virgin hair except for the old brassy ombré on her ends," says Starks. "She is a natural level 4. Her hair was very dry, and she had not had a haircut in over 6 months. I started by smoothing out her hair with my round brush then went in with a dry cut. I cut about 3 inches off her length and cleaned up her layers. I then texturized her hair and took a little bit of bulk out since it was so thick and I wanted it to lay nicely for her soon to be ombré."
COLOR HOW TO:
FORMULA:
A- 1 1/2 scoops Wella Freelights with 20 vol developer (back sections).
B- 1 scoop Wella Freelights with 30 vol developer (front sections).
C- Matrix ColorSync - 2oz 6N + 1oz 8P + 1oz 8V (toner).
APPLICATION:
Step 1: Separate into 3 sections, 2 front and one in the back. Angle partings in a downward triangle in the back using Formula A. Free hand paint the higher sections, creating 3 feathered balayage highlights. Paint in between, foiling each section as you go. Then paint a low V on each side within foils. Continue throughout the back applying color in this manner.
Step 2: In the front sections angle upward toward the face, using the same pattern as the back, high-low using Formula B. For the front, paint higher around the 3 main points of the face to frame the face when curled, pulled back or straight.
Step 3: Process for 40 minutes, lifting to level 8. (Note: Check foils every 10 minutes to ensure even lift and to maintain the integrity of the hair.) Rinse and shampoo. Towel dry.
Step 4: Tone with Formula C for 10 minutes at the bowl. Rinse with cool water and condition the ends. (Note: Advise client to not wash her hair for 24 hours to let the toner set in the hair.)
Step 5: Blow dry the hair 80% then add Aquage Silkening Oil Treatment serum mixed with BioMega Behave smoothing balm for a polished blow out.
In an industry with so many options and opportunities, we asked artists what made them niche down and select a specialty. Amelia Fugitt (@ameliahairmakeup) says choosing to focus on transformations has transformed her career.
In this content series, we're focusing on artists who found a niche that really speaks to them and work for their career. Henry "Tribes" Amoloja (@theweightedcape), is based in Dallas, TX, and practices sensory-friendly barbering.
In an industry with so many options and opportunities, we asked artists what made them niche down and choose a specialty. Texas-based artist Kimberly Michelle has always loved focusing on healthy hair and scalp, and headspa rituals was a natural evolution.
In an industry with so many options and opportunities, we asked these artists what made them niche down and choose a specialty. See Caidy Brasure's perspective on specializing in editorial and special occasion styling.
In an industry with so many options and opportunities, we asked these artists what made them niche down and choose a specialty. See Shonda Harvey-Gayle's perspective on specializing in extensions.
In an industry with so many options and opportunities, we asked these artists what made them niche down and choose a specialty. See Stacey Ciceron's perspective on specializing in natural texture.
Get to know Jerwin Carlos, a fun-loving hairstylist and a member of Ulta Beauty's Artist Collective.
Check out these beautiful holiday and winter nails, created by the talented nail artists of our MODERN SALON 100 of 2025. Top-tier inspiration!
As we prepared this year’s MODERN SALON 100, our annual recognition of standout artists, we invited salon owners to nominate rising stars on their teams. The response was tremendous, filled with heartfelt praise for talented professionals.
Meet Jill Buck, a dynamic celebrity hairstylist, Davines North America Color Ambassador, and devoted mom whose creative flair extends seamlessly from the salon to the screen.
It's our 10th year of recognizing the most passionate and inspiring gamechangers in our industry! See who made this year's list.
Get to know Ulta Beauty Design Team member and Elite Stylist Beto Sanchez!
Alli Webb, the beauty entrepreneur and founder of Drybar, is back with a new haircare line inspired by lessons learned, and an embrace of her natural texture. After some difficult years, Webb decided to stop trying to control things and instead, find the magic in the mess.
Laura Gunter is a respected hairstylist, educator, and creative force based in Marietta, Georgia. With more than a decade of experience, she’s built a dynamic career that bridges artistry, mentorship, and industry leadership.
Eyre features deep, midnight hair color hues with metallic accents and her models are framed by darkness and caught in shadow, emphasizing their powerful presence.
Happy Women's History Month! Here's a woman who's making history in our industry today: Carolyn Aronson of leading haircare brand It's A 10.
From rethinking traditional assistant and apprenticeship programs to helping stylists avoid burnout and build community, this interview with Vee Vargas, a finalist for the NAHA Inspiring Salon of the Year, will inspire you.
