Rising labour costs, the extension of debt warehousing scheme and the increased VAT rate of 13.5 per cent are among the “grave concerns” highlighted in a survey of Irish Hairdressing Federation members.

The research follows recently introduced government policy measures, which IHF president, Lisa Eccles, said has had a “seismic effect on many people’s businesses’ bottom lines”.

“Many members are gravely concerned as to the impact this 1 January legislation has had on cash flow for purchases and wages. Many members are fearful of their future and face having to let staff go or close up completely.”

The biggest burden highlighted in the survey is the newly introduced legislation, chiefly the increasing entitlement to paid sick leave for employees. In the past two years, five additional paid sick days have been added.

The VAT rate of 13.5 per cent – up from nine per cent in September 2023 – continues to cause upset, and the IHF has appealed to government to return it to its lower rate in order for businesses to continue trading. Increased energy costs and a variety of rising product costs that narrow profit margins were also causes for concern. The survey also highlighted members’ commitment to avoiding price increases for its clientele, who are also impacted by the cost of living. 

Examples cited by the IHF – which represents more than 500 salon owners nationwide – included one member with 10 staff in her salon, who was now facing an extra 50 paid sick leave days annually. She would need to find additional staff to cover those days on top of the additional sick leave costs.

Many members also stated how the stress of these policy changes had affected their mental health. “Government needs to urgently take into account the untold stress and trauma they are putting small business owners under,” said Lisa Eccles. “As independent salon owners these increased burdened measures are deeply affecting their mental health”.

Eccles requested an urgent meeting with An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, Government Ministers Michael McGrath TD, Simon Coveney TD, and Neale Richmond TD to highlight the impact of this and future legislation is having.

At a glance:Dyson Supersonic r professional hair dryer

It has a new ergonomic design The Dyson Supersonic r has been designed ergonomically in a ‘r’ curve, and at 325g, weighs less than a can of hairspray. The shape allows stylists to reach where it’s normally difficult, for better control when styling hair, and for better comfort while doing so.

There’s more even heat thanks to new heaters New heater technology is small, light, streamlined and ‘power dense’. Its curved heater in effect ensures the dryer heats the airflow more evenly, with no hotspots. For stylists, this means increased evenness of temperature (including when using the attachments), a higher temperature for styling, and drying hair fast, with no heat damage. It checks the temperature constantly Dyson’s intelligent heat control – seen in its other hair tools, too – means air temperature is measured more than 20 times a second.

This again has an eye on keeping hair healthy, preventing extreme heat damage and protecting hair’s natural shine.

The attachments have sensors… and they’ll remember how you used them There’s a range of attachments that have integrated Radio Frequency Identification sensors. These communicate with the hair dryer, automatically adjusting the motor and the heater to deliver what Dyson engineers have set as the ‘optimal’ airflow and temperature.

As examples, the diffuser is set to low flow and low temperature to reduce frizz and enhance curls without disrupting the curl pattern. In contrast, the rough dry mode uses maximum power heat and flow to minimise drying time but while keeping the airflow controlled. However, stylists can adjust these settings depending on the hair type and style of each client, and it will remember that previous setting the next time that attachment is added. Its filter can go longer between cleans The 3D mesh filter at the bottom of the dryer, designed to capture salon pollutants such as hair and styling sprays, now lasts up to two times longer in-between cleans.

Stylists can join a waitlist here for the new pro-exclusive dryer 

Salon Services has revealed the winners of its first Professional Hair & Beauty Awards.  

Hosted by beauty journalist and entrepreneur, Ateh Jewel, at London’s Century Club, the awards celebrated the industry’s best loved professional products with a crowd that enjoyed cocktails in Salon Services’ own signature pink. Hundreds of thousands of the distributor’s professional customers shared their favourites on the online voting platform, alongside an expert panel who then tested the nominated products.  

 Ella Bella Bow’s Hair and Make-up scooped the Inspiration and Influencer Award, while The Little Princess Trust Award was given to Hair Story, with Jungle Hair and Beauty highly commended. 

And the hair winners are: 

Best Repair for Damaged Hair 
Wella Professionals Ultimate Repair  

Best Scalp Product 
L’Oréal Professionnel Serie Expert Scalp Advanced Anti-Dandruff Dermo Clarifier Shampoo 

Best Curl Range  
L’Oréal Professionnel Paris Serie Expert Curl Expression  

Best for Colour Protection
Wella Professionals Invigo Color Brilliance Mask 

Best Range for Blondes 
Redken Color Extend Blondage  

Best Purple Shampoo
Osmo Super Silver No Yellow Shampoo 

Best Overall Haircare Range
Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate

Best Affordable Haircare
Osmo Deep Moisture Range 

Best Styling Product
L’Oréal Professionnel Tecni.Art Pli Shaper  

 Best All in One Multitasker 
Revlon Professional Uniqone Original Hair Treatment 

 Best Heat Protector 
Wella Professionals Eimi Thermal Image Heat Protection Spray 

Best Smoothing & Shine Product 
Paul Mitchell Super Skinny Serum 

Best Permanent Hair Colour
Wella Professionals Koleston Perfect Permanent Hair Colour 

Best Fashion Hair Colour
Crazy Color Semi Permanent Hair Colour Cream 

 Best in Affordable Hair Colour 
XP100 Intense Radiance Hair Colour 

Best Express Colour 
Wella Professionals Shinefinity Zero Lift Glaze 

Best Hair Dryer   
Diva Veloce 3800 Pro Hair Dryer 

Best Straightener
ghd Original 

Best Curling Tool 
ghd Curve Soft Tong 32mm 

 Best Clipper, Trimmer & Shaver  
Wahl 5 Star Magic Clip Cordless Hair Clipper Kit 

Best Scissor
Jaguar Pre Style Ergo Scissors 6.0″ 

Best Vegan Haircare 
Olaplex Haircare  

Best Vegan Colour 
Wella Professionals Koleston Perfect Hair Colour 

Best in Haircare Innovation  
Redken Acidic Bonding Concentrate  

Best in Styling Tool Innovation  
ghd Duet Style 2-In-1 Hot Air Styler 

Inspiration & Influencer Award    
Ella Bella Bow’s 

Little Princess Trust Award             
Hair Story 

Finalists for the programme gathered at the Westrow Academy on Monday 12 February to compete for a place on this year’s team. A year-long mentorship programme, directed by Revlon’s global ambassador, Mark Leeson, gives aspiring stylists the chance to supercharge their skill set. Opportunities include photo shoots, shows and demonstrations, as well as the chance to attend colour and cutting courses and social media workshops. 

Judges Richard Darby from Mark Leeson, Emma Simmons from Salon 54, Steven Smart from Smart:EST 73 and Marney Lian from Gritt watched on as 18 finalists demonstrated their cutting and colouring skills in two heats. The day’s challenge was to recreate the photographic looks the finalists had submitted as part of their entry on the competition floor.

The Visionaries Team for 2024 is…

• Sophie Cookson: Gray’s Salon, Leeds
• Taylor Borthwick: Myka, Bathgate
• Stephanie Dwyer: Teresa Weller Hair Art, Dorking
• Hollie Varney: Salon Couture, Chatham

Commenting on the quality of the finalists, Mark Leeson said: “This was an awe-inspiring group of individuals. Calm under pressure but impressively creative, they came up with some seriously promising work. Being part of the Visionaries is an unmissable chance to push outside your comfort zone and experience things you’d never have believed were possible. I’m fired up for the year ahead. Our previous finalists have all gone on to flourish so let’s see what 2024 has in store for our next talented quartet.”

For their first assignment, the four Visionaries will be treated to a two-day colour and cutting course at the Revlon Academy in Leeds. “The Visionaries programme offers opportunities like no other. We have an incredible year lined up, all geared around giving this skilled team the tools, knowledge amd confidence to elevate their careers,” says Matt Horder, general manager of Revlon Professional UK & Ireland. “We’re excited to see this year’s lucky four absolutely shine!”

The hairdressing industry is always shifting, and it’s no different for freelance stylists. Here, Sheila Abrahams, (pictured above), founder of the Freelance Hairdressers Association, spotlights the pain points for freelancers right now and offers words of advice and support.Mislabelling freelancers

In the realm of hairdressing, many professionals prefer to be recognised as freelancers or independents rather than “home hairdressers.” Some of us travel to clients’ homes due to various reasons, because they have medical conditions, transportation limitations, are professionals who work from home, or are busy mums and dads who are strapped for time. Other stylists have transformed spaces like rooms, garages, or garden studios into fabulous salons. Freelancers might rent space, use pods or chairs, or even work under major brands and colour houses. Despite this diversity, some still label us as home hairdressers, even though renowned salon names also operate as freelancers for brands. The key distinction is that we don’t employ staff.Brands moving to the high street

Recent discussions centre on brands moving to the high street. We aim to keep our members positive and focused. If you retail products within your business, it’s important not to worry about external developments. Concentrate on honing your skills and knowledge with the trusted brands you use and guide your clients with the best haircare solutions. While clients may seek bargains, they often lack product knowledge and guidance, which can lead to less-than-ideal outcomes.Business independence and disguised employment

It’s crucial to educate our members that their business within a salon or barbershop must remain entirely separate from the umbrella they operate under. Regardless of whether you’re self-employed, a sole trader, or a limited company, you manage your booking system, handle bills via your own till system or card machine and provide your products and equipment. Your prices, hours, and vacation plans should not be dictated by others. If you need legal advice, the FHA offers a legal advice line to assist you.Navigating Covid concerns

COVID-19 has once again become a pressing topic in our community. Questions arise about skin testing after experiencing Covid or receiving the Covid jab, and whether it’s appropriate to request mask-wearing from clients. Given the limited Covid regulations, our advice is to follow your instincts. If you wish to wear a mask, do so. If clients have received a Covid injection, adhere to previous rules of skin testing before applying colour. Given the increasing reports of reactions post-Covid or vaccinations, erring on the side of caution is advisable.Handling booking fees and deposits

An ongoing concern revolves around booking fees or deposits due to the increasing incidence of no-shows and last-minute cancellations. We advise our members to ensure transparency. If you opt to charge a booking fee, it should be clearly communicated in writing and enforced for cancellations within a 24/48-hour window. This policy can be included on your website, in appointment confirmation emails, or text messages, ensuring that clients understand the terms and have a copy for reference in case of earnings loss.The percentage of freelancers in the industry is on the rise, coinciding with more salons unfortunately closing their doors. Social media abounds with newcomers seeking guidance on insurance, groups, and education. The FHA offers bespoke insurance tailored to our ever-growing industry and unparalleled opportunities to collaborate with top brands in colour and styling. We provide hands-on training, bursaries, zoom education, local meetups, and a supportive community through our staff room chat room. While freelancers may work independently, we stand together, offering technical advice and guidance. Our goal is to mentor new freelancers and provide insights into establishing their businesses.

The NHBF has been informed that while there will be a development in technical qualifications against relevant hairdressing standards at Level 3 this area will not be reformed until at least 2027. In the meantime, the Department for Education will continue to fund existing qualifications, which means that learners can continue to be enrolled on to existing provision.  

Caroline Larissey, NHBF chief executive, said: “Following several meetings, where we outlined the concerns of our Members, we are pleased that the Minister has listened and taken on board our recommendations to support our sector, by focusing on a Beauty T Level and no longer introducing a combined Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy T Level.”  

“Employers from hair salons and barbershops will always prefer that a prospective employee should enter the sector via a “job ready” route or qualification, such as an apprenticeship or through an equivalent college-based Level 2 qualification.” 

The government says it is taking steps to raise standards and funding for apprenticeships to ensure high quality training provision, working with hair employers to potentially improve assessment for the Level 2 Hair Professional apprenticeship, which, together with the funding uplift, aims to increase quality and completion rates. 

There was a 57 per cent funding uplift for the Level 2 Hairdressing Professional standard (from £7,000 to £11,000) last year, with a 28 per cent funding uplift for the Level 2 Barbering apprenticeship (from £7,000 to £9,000).  

Alongside this, it is also working with employers via the Hair Professional Apprenticeship Steering group, supported by the NHBF, to review the Level 3 Advanced and Creative Hair Professional Occupational Standard and apprenticeship. This review will ensure that the apprenticeship continues to meet employer needs, and supports progression from Level 2, ensuring hair professionals can build lasting careers in the sector. 

The update follows the Secretary of State for Education’s announcement in March 2023 of the decision to delay the delivery of the Hairdressing, Barbering and Beauty Therapy (HBBT) T Level to September 2024. It had originally been slated to start in September 2023.

Mislabelling freelancers

In the realm of hairdressing, many professionals prefer to be recognised as freelancers or independents rather than “home hairdressers.” Some of us travel to clients’ homes due to various reasons, because they have medical conditions, transportation limitations, are professionals who work from home, or are busy mums and dads who are strapped for time. Other stylists have transformed spaces like rooms, garages, or garden studios into fabulous salons. Freelancers might rent space, use pods or chairs, or even work under major brands and colour houses. Despite this diversity, some still label us as home hairdressers, even though renowned salon names also operate as freelancers for brands. The key distinction is that we don’t employ staff.

Brands moving to the high street

Recent discussions centre on brands moving to the high street. We aim to keep our members positive and focused. If you retail products within your business, it’s important not to worry about external developments. Concentrate on honing your skills and knowledge with the trusted brands you use and guide your clients with the best haircare solutions. While clients may seek bargains, they often lack product knowledge and guidance, which can lead to less-than-ideal outcomes.

Business independence and disguised employment

It’s crucial to educate our members that their business within a salon or barbershop must remain entirely separate from the umbrella they operate under. Regardless of whether you’re self-employed, a sole trader, or a limited company, you manage your booking system, handle bills via your own till system or card machine and provide your products and equipment. Your prices, hours, and vacation plans should not be dictated by others. If you need legal advice, the FHA offers a legal advice line to assist you.

Navigating Covid concerns

COVID-19 has once again become a pressing topic in our community. Questions arise about skin testing after experiencing Covid or receiving the Covid jab, and whether it’s appropriate to request mask-wearing from clients. Given the limited Covid regulations, our advice is to follow your instincts. If you wish to wear a mask, do so. If clients have received a Covid injection, adhere to previous rules of skin testing before applying colour. Given the increasing reports of reactions post-Covid or vaccinations, erring on the side of caution is advisable.

Handling booking fees and deposits

An ongoing concern revolves around booking fees or deposits due to the increasing incidence of no-shows and last-minute cancellations. We advise our members to ensure transparency. If you opt to charge a booking fee, it should be clearly communicated in writing and enforced for cancellations within a 24/48-hour window. This policy can be included on your website, in appointment confirmation emails, or text messages, ensuring that clients understand the terms and have a copy for reference in case of earnings loss.The percentage of freelancers in the industry is on the rise, coinciding with more salons unfortunately closing their doors. Social media abounds with newcomers seeking guidance on insurance, groups, and education. The FHA offers bespoke insurance tailored to our ever-growing industry and unparalleled opportunities to collaborate with top brands in colour and styling. We provide hands-on training, bursaries, zoom education, local meetups, and a supportive community through our staff room chat room. While freelancers may work independently, we stand together, offering technical advice and guidance. Our goal is to mentor new freelancers and provide insights into establishing their businesses.