TEXTURE SKILLS EVOLUTION AT ULTA BEAUTY - MODERN SALON

TEXTURE SKILLS: Keep evolving with Ulta Beauty education for all.

Originally published in Modern Salon Spring 2022 Edition

This Moment In Texture

“We are at an apex of education - 70 percent of the world has texture in their hair today,” estimates Pro Team artist Pekela Riley (@pekelariley), who helped strategize overall content and provide cultural insights to frame up texture training for Ulta Beauty stylists.

Riley sees the shift to more texture education as a beacon to inspire diverse artists.

“We want stylists to see a salon world of possibilities where they fit in, where their knowledge is valued and can grow,” Riley explains. “When you make space for artists to really show up for themselves, you are providing a mirror of self-love first for the salon professional., who can then hold up a mirror of self-love for the consumer.”

The goal, Riley says, is for each artist to be able to say equally, to any guest with any hair texture, curl pattern or tone, “You are beautiful, and we are here for you.”

We are laying strong foundation, Riley says. “There is still much work to be done, but seeds have been planted.”

WHAT DOES IT TAKE to succeed with texture today? What builds technical confidence and cultural understanding? Start with the basics and move forward intentionally, with an open mind and heart.

That’s the collective wisdom Pekela Riley, Michelle O’Connor, Takeyra Shipps and Benita Williams, four hair artists and texture experts representing three tiers of Ulta Beauty education and influence:

  1. the award-winning, industry leading Pro Team

  2. the internal Design Team of hands-on ambassadors and rising stars

  3. more than 100 Services District Educators who visit and teach stylists directly

Read more here at Modern Salon Spring 2022 Edition.

Pekela Riley