MENU
SEARCHSince 2009, Sebastian Professional has been conducting the “What’s Next Awards” competition to give stylists in North America a creative outlet that delivers national coverage and peer attention. The competition was so successful that in 2011 it became the global “What’s Next Challenge,” inviting stylists and beauty junkies—non-stylist artists who are hair obsessed— from all over the world to participate.
WHAT: Since 2009, Sebastian Professional has been conducting the “What’s Next Awards” competition to give stylists in North America a creative outlet that delivers national coverage and peer attention. The competition was so successful that in 2011 it became the global “What’s Next Challenge,” inviting stylists and beauty junkies—non-stylist artists who are hair obsessed— from all over the world to participate.
WHEN AND WHERE: Winners were introduced April 15 in Berlin during a special competition, celebration and Nightshade Masquerade Ball attended by hundreds of stylists, contest finalists and judges. Judges included Sebastian Global Artistic Directors Shay Dempsey, Michael Polsinelli and Ed Moelands, along with Sebastian Professional Visionary and accessory designer, Kerin Rose.
WHO: Stylist Zheng Fei from Shanghai, China, was named the 2012 What’s Next Challenge winner for his “Stardust” style after he and nine other finalists recreated their hair looks on stage for the Sebastian Professional judging panel. Entries were originally submitted online as photo images based on a theme of Cosmic Infinities, inspired by a futuristic Sebastian collection fueled by Potion 9 and Potion 9 Lite.
NEXT: For the 2012/13 cycle, the Sebastian What’s Next Awards will return to its roots as an exclusively North American competition. The competition is slated to be part of a major Sebastian education, inspiration and advocacy tour across the continent starting this fall, and will likely wrap with a live event in Los Angeles in Spring 2013. The winner will earn a chance to style backstage at New York Fashion Week with the Sebastian Design Team.
MORE DETAILS: Watch for updates on sebastianprofessional.com, facebook.com/sebastianpro and twitter@sebastianpro.
A reimagined Press Conference and Official Show Launch will feature the artistry and creative direction of the Chrystofer Benson Artist Team, an exclusive first look at America’s Beauty Show 2027, and an invitation to EXPERIENCE the PULSE - The Heartbeat of the Professional Beauty Industry.
Maya Smith, CEO, Founder and Creative Director of haircare brand The Doux, sits down with Nicole to chat about the brand's new Roblox game, My Salon Empire, inspired by salon entrepreneurship and celebrating all hair textures.
This global competition celebrates the artistry, energy, and creative PULSE of the professional beauty community.
Sofia Vergara, Lucy Hale, Alison Brie, John Salley, Brian Austin Green and more honored the best achievements in Science Behind Beauty, Health & Wellness at this glittering event.
Stress was the factor respondents blamed most often when their skin worsened, cited by 54%, followed by diet at 37% and hormones at 35%.
This year’s awards centered around the Monochromatic trend, which is rooted in minimalism and intentional by design.
Haircare brand The Doux has launched “My Salon Empire,” a free-to-play salon management game on Roblox, helping the next generation celebrate the diversity of textured hair and explore salon entrepreneurship.
The show reported 30% attendance growth. It felt that way. This event for the southwest professional beauty community had heart, spice, and something for everyone.
Wella artists presented the Monochromatic trend movement, introduced new Pure Perfection color and Sebastian styling innovations, while the Wella team created interactive fun throughout Wella Studio in Los Angeles.
Dominique LyVar, an influential educator and artist, is remembered by those who loved him for his significant impact on the industry and contributions to the community.
Known for his buttery blondes and a technique for highlighting hair with more precision that he called chunking, Brad Johns died on August 27. His friend and fellow colorist, David Stanko, shares thoughts on his talented colleague and close friend.
As technology evolves at an accelerated rate, you want to make sure you have the best in your business toolkit to help you grow sales, motivate your team, communicate with your current and future clientele, and streamline your managerial tasks. The 2026 SALON TODAY Technology Solutions Guide is designed to help you navigate today's growing landscape of salon and spa technology. In this guide, you'll find a curated look at more than 50 of the latest software platforms, digital solutions, and innovative features to help you compare options and identify the best fit for your business.
The Davines Edit reflects the brand’s passion for people and planet.
RÜTE Wash introduces a shower cap designed specifically for crown washing, helping clients with hair extensions cleanse the scalp while protecting the lengths from water.
Premiere San Antonio Presented by SalonCentric returns for its fourth edition August 30-31 at the Henry B. González Convention Center, delivering its biggest and boldest event to date.
One-Day Personal and Professional Development Education Event for Beauty Professionals Set for October 25, 2026, at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue.
According to the report, people are moving away from copy-paste trends and toward community, using real experiences to develop a sense of taste and beauty that reflects who they are.
