DESIGNING A NEW ERA

In an age marked by unprecedented individuality, the art of hairstyling has emerged as a powerful medium for self-discovery and reinvention. Neha Bhalchandra, Hair Artist and Director, YLG Salon, discusses her mantras with Priyanka Parshurami.

“Creative,” was the prompt answer we got when Neha Bhalchandra was asked to describe herself in one word. With a Bachelors in Design degree from Srishti Institute, followed by a Masters in Management from Warwick Business School, UK, Bhalchandra pursued her hairdressing dream by finishing her ARTH Diploma from the L’Oreal Academy, Mumbai, and CIBTAC Diploma from YLG Institute. For the last two years, she has been an active part of the hair and beauty industry through her creative work at YLG Salon.

WHAT INSPIRED YOUR CAREER IN HAIRDRESSING: PERSONAL PASSION OR FAMILY BUSINESS?

A bit of both! I have always felt drawn to the family business. As I began exploring, I found myself naturally gravitating towards hair, and instantly fell in love with everything about it!

AT WHAT AGE DID YOU WORK ON YOUR FIRST CLIENT?

I was 25, and I did classic square layers with highlights and a global colour.

DO YOU PREFER WORKING BEHIND THE CHAIR OR BEING AT YOUR DESK?

Without a doubt, behind the chair! I eagerly anticipate the days I get to be on the salon floor.

HOW HAVE YOU MODERNISED YLG SALON TO MEET CURRENT INDUSTRY STANDARDS?

I have immense respect for the foundation my parents have built. As a young Gen Z professional, I’m striving to curate experiences and products that cater to the evolving audience.

AS AN ARTIST ASSOCIATED WITH BRANDS, WHAT FACTORS DO YOU CONSIDER WHEN PARTNERING WITH THEM?

I believe the team I work with, the product quality and the brand’s ability to meet customer expectations are what attract me to a brand.

WHAT ARE THE MUST-HAVE QUALITIES OF A HAIRDRESSER?

The hunger to learn new things every day and maintain a beginner’s spirit, along with physical fitness and patience, are essential.

HOW DO YOU STAY UPDATED WITH THE LATEST TRENDS AND TECHNIQUES IN HAIRDRESSING?

Beauty shows/exhibitions like Professional Beauty and others are my go-to ways to stay in the loop. I also look up to artists from partner brands, and of course, I would be lying if I did not say social media!

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE SETS YOU APART FROM OTHER HAIR ARTISTS IN THE INDUSTRY?

I believe everyone brings their own specialty and something new to the table. For me, I think my degree in design and inherent love for creative thinking is what sets me apart.

WHAT DO YOU ENVISION FOR YOUR FUTURE IN THE INDIAN HAIRDRESSING INDUSTRY?

To act as a sponge, absorbing and learning as much as I possibly can! I would love to leave my mark on the industry in any way possible. I strongly believe that education drives our industry. If I can create a niche for myself, whether by leading the way in education or enhancing the experience for my own customers, I would be grateful to have been a part of it.