Some call it art, while others know it’s pure skill. We asked six of the top L’Oréal Professionnel hairstylists to give us their insights on elevating their artistry and achieving the best look for their clients
In the eyes of a hairstylist, every person has a story. Every hair is an extension of one’s self and everyone has a different relationship with their hair. For hairstylists, hair is more than just a part of your appearance—it’s also a means to express yourself and connect with others. It’s a passion where they’ve spent time and effort in perfecting their craft. To these artists, it is more than a hair color and haircut—it’s also about making connections and creating an impact in their community.
As L’Oréal Professionnel partners, these top Filipino hairstylists will let you in on the details of how they forged their path into a career in creating crowning glories and how they made an impact in their respective communities.
Hairstylist duo JuRo on becoming respected figures in the industry
A haircut isn’t just given out randomly. Believe it or not, there is a science behind creating the perfect style for each person’s unique face shape, hair type, and personality. To become a pro, training is the most crucial part of a hairstylist’s journey as it provides a solid base to build on a career in the industry.
When hairstylist duo Jude Hipolito and Rose Velasco of JuRo Salon Exclusif realized that they both wanted to pursue a career in hair, they didn’t need to second guess themselves. They were in it for the long haul with Jude becoming an expert at precision cuts and Rose a master in coloring. The tandem with two decades of experience believes that in order to have a long and remarkable career in the industry, one must invest in proper training, know where your interest is in hairdressing, and find a good mentor to develop your skills further.
“You must have a strong desire to overcome all the challenges of this profession, have the discipline needed to last long days and nights doing hair, and have the determination to gain mastery of the techniques and to reach the highest professional level you can attain.”
As L’Oréal Professionnel Philippines ambassadors, imparting their knowledge and skills to fellow Filipino stylists is also on their repertoire through hair shows and face-to-face masterclasses in key cities in the country. “Doing hair is a balance of art and science. Being artistic is not enough; one must learn the science behind hair cutting, textures, and coloring, and vice-versa.”
Recently, the hairstyling partners taught a hands-on face-to-face masterclass on Precision Cutting and French Balayage and French Glossing in Pampanga for fellow Central and North Luzon hairdressers and salon owners. In Cagayan de Oro, they also did a JUROxLOREAL Masterclass and inaugurated the L’Oréal Academie along with TESDA and DOLE officials, L’Oréal Professionnel team from Manila and the Mindanao distributor team.
Alex Carbonell on how he succeeded in establishing his own brand
As one of the pillars of fashion and beauty, a hairstylist’s arsenal of timeless skills allows them to create new looks, update classic styles, and ensure that people look their best at all times. At the heart of their work is a deep understanding of hair, haircare, and how an individual’s unique features can be accentuated with a specific style.
This is the same principle that has guided Alex Carbonell of Studio Fix by Alex Carbonell in his 34-year illustrious career. As a veteran in the hair game, Alex developed a passion for hairstyling as a meticulous client who also loved wearing the latest hair trends. His frequent trips to the salon decades prior were Alex’s form of self-care. As a culmination of these visits, the hair connoisseur in him was inspired to venture into the colorful world of hair artistry with the goal of making a difference in a person’s life that will make them unique, and in most ways, make them feel special about themselves.
Internationally trained in Los Angeles, Minneapolis, and Singapore, the Filipino hairstylist attributes his extensive experience and training to crafting his brand, the Carbonell look, that showcases uniqueness with a luxurious touch. It’s a look that has also been spotted on his celebrity clients like Iya Villania, Jodi Sta. Maria, and Bianca Gonzalez. “[For me] it is about redefining your brand and determining the Carbonell look: paradoxical. It’s trendy but timeless, luxury but commercial, wearable yet high fashion.”
“I never stop innovating because fashion moves fast. The only way to survive [in the industry] is to innovate. Change is always a series of knowledge, passion, and creativity.”
As one of the most sought-after hairstylists in the country, Alex doesn’t rest on his laurels. In fact, the famous hairstylist is always in the mindset of innovating and honing his craft more than ever.
Cherry Reyes on how she furthered her career through extensive international training
From the average person who gets their hair cut and colored, to the celebrities who rely on the professional services of a stylist for every step of their career, there are plenty of people who are looking for skilled hairstylists to work with. When it comes to becoming a bonafide hairstylist, training is the difference between just styling hair and actually making a difference in people’s lives. Just like Cherry Reyes, creative and managing director of Toni&Guy Philippines, training is an absolute must for anyone who’s determined about going pro in the league of hair.
“Constant training is a must for any serious hairstylist because it keeps one updated, not only with the current trends but more importantly, with the latest techniques. Like most things today, these things evolve over time.”
The renowned stylist, who has over 20 years of experience in the industry also encourages thriving hair artists to explore opportunities in training abroad. Through yearly intensive training in London, Cherry has adapted the Toni&Guy methodology, a cutting system with different partings and sectionings that is unique to the brand. “It’s not only about memorizing the techniques of a particular cut or style but the rationale behind why you’re doing it. This is crucial so you can discern what haircut or technique would be suitable for the client. After all, it’s not one haircut for all just because it’s the trend.”
Joseph Aballe on how pursuing his passions led him to be successful
Hairstyling is a passion. It’s not just a job. It’s also an expression of who you are. It’s a way to express your creativity and show off your personality, and it’s a profession that can take you anywhere in the world. This was always the case for Joseph Aballe, owner of Joseph & Company Salon, especially in his teenage years—to become a professional hairstylist and salon owner.
Hailing from the island of Masbate, his journey into the industry started when he was just in high school. “I really wanted to be a star. I found out for myself early on that I have a passion for doing hair. I was already cutting hair when I was in high school in my province,” shares Joseph on his humble beginnings.
“I wanted to help other people. If they have a passion for hair, I will give my hundred percent to train them. I love sharing the knowledge and skill that I have developed through the years. I want to help the hair industry grow.”
Right after high school, the then-newbie stylist landed a job in a salon in Manila. Despite not getting the job he wanted at first, his persistence led him to train with Franck Provost in 2002 and was eventually promoted to senior stylist at Fabio Salsa in 2004. His feat at both French salons led him to train in their Paris home bases. Joseph also took part in comprehensive training and workshops at the L’Oréal Academies in Vietnam and Thailand. With such extensive training, the top stylist always puts emphasis on elevating his skills and encouraging the same in his protégés.
Jo Tobato on how he built his clientele into becoming a sought-after hairstylist
As a profession, hairstyling requires you to relate to your client’s needs and have an in-depth knowledge of the products and techniques you are using on them. The best way to do this is by having a full understanding of what your client wants before you begin working with them. The more information you have about their desires and expectations, the better you’ll be able to serve them.
For Jo Tobato, creative director of AZTA Urban Salon, this is a skill and service that he has thoroughly developed in his 20 years in the industry. As someone who finds fulfillment in seeing the smiles on his clients’ faces, he acknowledges that there’s an unspoken barrier to achieving their hair goals due to people who might feel intimidated by the atmosphere of a salon. For him, it’s integral to a hairstylist’s job to get to know the client first—from their history to their preferences.
“I believe I am responsible for breaking that wall because I believe that I have to gain their trust and assure them that they’re in good hands. One of my aims, when I meet a client, is that I have to make them laugh. If I make them laugh, that’s when I know I’ve built rapport with them. That’s how you gain trust and eventually their loyalty.”
Aside from undergoing training, the AZTA Urban Salon creative director also believes in keeping up with the trends on social media to relate better with his clients. “I’m very eager in following stylists from all over the world. That’s where I also get trends and how I can update myself. I’m very active on TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, as there are many trends that emerge from those platforms, too.”
“Every training, I always share with my juniors that client consultation should be your top priority. It’s an important part of giving service.”
For hairstylists, the value of one’s hair in their life isn’t just about the physical aspect of it, but also the emotional facet that a transformative change in a hairstyle can bring to someone. This detail alone is why L’Oréal Professionnel remains committed to providing the resources and support that will help any stylist to elevate their skill set and achieve their full potential. By working with talented and budding hairstylists, the global professional hair brand further strengthens its mission to provide the best products and services, a strong community, and fuel the passion among its growing team of hairstylists wherever they may be in the world.
Pursue your hairstyling passion by partnering with L’Oréal Professionnel. Visit the L’Oréal Access website to update your skills even at home. Follow L’Oréal Professionnel on Instagram and Facebook.
