
Pro Beauty Pulse: A Monthly View of Industry Confidence
The Professional Beauty Association and Pivot Point team up to develop an ongoing study that measures the confidence of salon owners, stylists, school owners, and students.
In 2007, Sophia Navarro launched Lash CO in Houston, TX, the “test kitchen” and proving ground for Novalash lash extension. Lash CO lash salon sets the pace for the Novalash Signature Salons around the world and has proven that lashes are recession-proof.
In 2007, Sophia Navarro launched Lash CO in Houston, TX, the “test kitchen” and proving ground for Novalash lash extension. Lash CO lash salon sets the pace for the Novalash Signature Salons around the world and has proven that lashes are recession-proof.
“We grew so quickly,” says Navarro. “We started with two extensionists—me and one other—and within two months, we had four. Now we are sharing rooms and have expanded because we have nine extensionists. If I was to do it all over again, I would get a larger space, at least ten rooms, but we didn’t know we would do so well, so quickly.”
During the past few years, unlike other businesses that were hit by a struggling economy, Lash CO and lash applications continued strong.
"During the recession, we did very well. It never hit us," says Navarro. "What I heard from clients is that they might have let go of their maid or their daily Starbucks but they wouldn’t let go of their lashes. And I see lash salons opening up everywhere. Within a two mile radius of us, there are five. “
Navarro travels and trains Novalash artists around the world and helps to open the Novalash Signature Salons. Interested professionals also travel to Houston for on-location trainings.
"In the last month, I trained women from Jamaica and from Canada, from Europe, from Mexico, from South America. I’ve been to Turkey, to Italy, to Dubai. I invented the technique so I want to make sure it is carried out properly and I really want people to see why it is such a great service."
LUCKY SEVEN REASONS TO LEARN NOVALASHES
1. "I’ve seen a lot of people who got tired of standing all the time who wanted to change their position and use their body –and their talents--in a different way. Working with Novalashes allow for that."
2. The earning potential. "You do a full set and then you lock them in every month instead of the every two months more usual with a haircut. In New York, they are charging $450/full set."
3. The start-up cost is very low. "The cost of your product evens out to approximately $5.00 per client.. And you are making between $150-$450 per client."
4. You can make your own schedule.
5. You can create a mobile service if that is best for you.
6. "With our adhesive, the Platinum Bond, you can get the lashes wet right away unlike others where you have to wait from 24-48 hours. And you know they will last up to 4 weeks."
7. Everything you would normally do, you can still do with Novalashes except use makeup remover. "You can shower, go swimming, you can use the same makeup, even a lash growth serum. You don’t have to change your life. The lashes just enhance it."

The Professional Beauty Association and Pivot Point team up to develop an ongoing study that measures the confidence of salon owners, stylists, school owners, and students.

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.