
ASCP, ISPA and PBA Receive 2026 Power of Associations Award for Esthetics Licensure Compact
This shared recognition celebrates the strength of industry collaboration in advancing professional mobility.
In this interview, Kelly Hopkins shares a bit about her journey and the importance of her new title as a Master of Beauty.

Nick Arrojo on stage with Camille Plourde (2nd place)…. Lea Graves ( 3rd place) … Kelly Hopkins (winner) and Frank Schoeneman
Kelly Hopkins, owner of the 1213 Hair Studio in Richmond, VA, is the winner of the Empire Education Group’s “Become the Next Master of Beauty” competition. In addition to winning a $10,000 cash prize, she will now have the opportunity to perform on stage with Celebrity Stylist Nick Arrojo and his Master Educators at a select Tour of Beauty educational event this year. Hopkins was named by Arrojo and Empire Education Group’s Chairman Frank Schoeneman New York City.
“Picking the winner was difficult," says Nick Arrojo of the 300 entries. "All finalists are phenomenal stylists with amazing creativity and skill. I am thrilled Kelly will be joining us on stage at a Masters of Beauty Tour. She has the experience and the personality needed to inspire other stylists, and that is exactly what she will do on stage with us at Masters of Beauty.”
States Schoeneman, “What an amazing opportunity for Kelly. Not only are we thrilled she is going to present with Nick at our Masters of Beauty Tour, but we are excited to help her grow her career through education. It’s what this contest was all about—elevating the industry and the stylists, like Kelly, who make cosmetology such a meaningful and rewarding career.”
In this Skype interview, Hopkins shares her thoughts about becoming the first MASTER OF BEAUTY.

This shared recognition celebrates the strength of industry collaboration in advancing professional mobility.

In Dubai, a salon visit isn’t an appointment. It’s a weekly routine, and clients can spend $800 to $1,400 a month on it, according to Gaurav Tripathi of MADI International. On October 6-8, 2026, the market behind those numbers opens its doors as Beautyworld Dubai marks its 30th edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together distributors, brands, stylists and salon owners from all over the world.

The Good Patch is a leading wearable wellness patch brand, offering wellness and skincare patches that support everyday needs including energy, sleep, relaxation and more.

Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!

Ulta Beauty has announced its partnership with Black Beauty Roster to launch the pilot of All Textures Certification (ATC). The new program is aimed at addressing gaps in education within the beauty industry and raising the level of skills and guest satisfaction for all.

Mireya Villarreal, founder of From Chair to Boss™, is bringing together beauty industry leaders for a new one-day educational event designed to help salon professionals strengthen the business side of their careers. From Chair to Boss Live! will take place September 28 at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center in Oak Brook, Illinois.

Salon owner, tech founder, and educator Universe Walker will bring her signature workshop, The Art of Dry Cutting, to Brooklyn on July 20, offering stylists a chance to deepen their understanding of shape, movement, texture, and dry cutting.

As part of our ongoing commitment to sharing resources that help beauty professionals stay informed, we thought it was worth introducing our audience to The Chatter and the unique perspective it brings to industry conversations.

Celebrating 60 years in haircare, Dippity-Do is honoring its styling heritage with its Girls with Curls collection, a reimagined Light Hold Gelée inspired by the brand's original 1965 styling gel.

Covet & Mane has expanded its Pro Color System with the launch of Color Boost Drops, completing what the company says is the first professional color system engineered specifically for hair extensions.

The 2026 Beauty Changes Lives Legacy Award has been awarded to Sam Villa for his trailblazing contribution, advocacy and mentorship that has profoundly transformed and elevated the professional beauty industry.

CND is relaunching its SHELLAC system with a new CND Visible Light Lamp, updated packaging, and an expanded shade offering.

Curl Cult founder Janine Jarman, a hairstylist, salon owner, educator, and product creator, is opening a community investment round that gives hairdressers and clients the opportunity to own a stake in the company they helped grow.

The night honored the artists and collections shaping the future of professional beauty during PBA NAHA 2026.

The ultra-lightweight, handle-free dryer is designed to reduce wrist strain while delivering powerful performance behind the chair.

Aura Salonware is proud to announce its 2026 scholarship recipients. This first-time scholarship in partnership with the Professional Beauty Association awarded three different scholarships to support beauty professionals at every point in their professional journey.

SalonCentric has announced its expansion into Alaska, marking the distributor’s presence across all 50 states and bringing additional access to professional beauty products, education and business support to licensed salon professionals in the region.