JACK HOWARD at SALON INTERNATIONAL

We caught up with Jack Howard about his upcoming Salon Live session, in association with L'Oréal Professional UK, the massive shift around grey hair, and why the ultimate business breakthrough starts long before you pick up a tint brush

What can visitors expect from your Masterclass this year?

As always with my education, it is going to be strictly salon-focused for people working behind the chair. The core focus this year is grey blending and French blending – how I see it, how I approach it, and how to make it highly profitable. It is an incredibly strong format designed to give stylists practical, real-world tools. We aren’t trying to reinvent the colour wheel here; we are just modifying it to ensure your day-to-day salon work runs smoothly.

Who is this Masterclass designed for, and what will attendees gain from it?

This session is for everyone from the busy colourist to the salon owner. I am bringing my dual perspective of working behind the chair and running a team. We will be diving into pricing strategies, obviously, but also the specific language required for communicating this broad reset of hair colour services to your clients. The big takeaway, however, will be the consultation. We are going to break down how to nail it and win every single time.

What are the biggest colour trends you are seeing right now?

The standout trend right now is the massive shift in the consumer’s mindset regarding grey blending. Clients are no longer looking for blanket, high-maintenance coverage; they want sophistication and longevity. This entire presentation is about creating new ways to look at hair colour, allowing you to solve a client’s frustrations and problems before they even have to ask.

You are known for creating beautiful, wearable colour. What are the key principles you always come back to?

Taste level isn’t something we talk about enough in the industry, but for me, I have always been consumer-focused. I believe in beautiful, believable hair colour. It is the type of colour that has a nuance and a softness that works instinctively with the person sitting in my chair. Although that sounds simple, it really isn’t. It requires you to be entirely present and completely avoid relying on what worked last time. Every client is a puzzle, and it is my job to put the pieces together.

What advice would you give to colourists looking to elevate their work and build confidence?

The best advice I can give is to invest heavily in that initial consultation. Truly listen. See that person in your chair with fresh eyes every single time, rather than falling into comfortable habits. Let them speak of all their hopes and dreams before you start with any physical work. Once you understand their lifestyle and expectations, make a plan.