Icons of the Future

India’s hair and beauty industry is at the cusp of a revolution. A young brigade is getting ready to conquer newer heights and achieve bigger milestones. Rooted in technical education, inspired by their own passion, techand social media-savvy and proficient in soft skills, the GenNext in beauty is raring to go. As the young guns are getting ready to hold the reins and drive the industry to a brighter future, they are ably supported by the veterans, educators and entrepreneurs, both from India and abroad.

The modern world has opened up myriad avenues in the beauty sector wherein a young mind can thrive and create a career. Kanishka Ramchandani looks at the different paths that a talented and trained beauty professional can take to establish themselves in the industry. To exemplify the dynamic opportunities available, she also features a few accomplished artists who are creating waves in their niche with their talent and smart work.

As consumer preferences evolve and demand for personalised services grows, aspiring beauty professionals can explore a variety of specialised career paths. Read on to know more:

Hairdressing: Beyond the Basics

Hairdressing is no longer limited to basic cuts and trims. Today, it encompasses niches like styling, colouring and even trichology. With the rise of eco-conscious clients, knowledge of sustainable and organic products can also set a stylist apart. Enrolling in a reputed academy for technical training and understanding global trends is essential for excelling in this field.

Makeup Artistry: Painting Confidence

Becoming a makeup artist opens doors to diverse opportunities. Bridal makeup remains one of the most lucrative niches in India. Professionals interested in creativity can also delve into prosthetic and special effects (SFX) makeup. Developing a robust portfolio and networking within the industry are key to success.

Nail Artist: Precision and Creativity

Nail artistry is gaining momentum as clients look for detailed, high-quality nail designs. This career path involves mastering techniques like acrylics, gel extensions and nail art painting. Certification courses and practice with the latest tools and products are critical for building a reputation in this niche.

Spa Therapist: Holistic Wellness

From aromatherapy to reflexology, spa therapists work with clients to improve their physical and mental well-being. A strong understanding of anatomy, coupled with hands-on training in various massage techniques, is vital for this role. Spa therapists can also specialise in wellness tourism, an emerging trend in India.

Skin Expert: The Science of Beauty

Skin experts or aestheticians focus on providing skincare treatments like facials, chemical peels and laser therapies. With a growing demand for non-invasive treatments and customised skincare regimens, this career offers immense potential. Staying updated on active ingredients and partnering with dermatologists can elevate one’s expertise.

Brand Trainer / Beauty Advisor

Many beauty brands require trainers to educate professionals on their products or beauty advisors to guide customers. A career as a brand trainer combines technical expertise with interpersonal skills, as trainers often conduct workshops or online tutorials. Beauty advisors help customers select products tailored to their needs, often working in retail environments or luxury stores.

Academy Educator

For seasoned professionals with a passion for teaching, becoming an academy educator is a rewarding path. Educators shape the next generation of beauty experts by sharing their knowledge and experience.

Building your Foundation

No matter the path you choose, education and continuous learning are crucial. Aspiring beauty professionals should invest in accredited courses and seek mentorship from industry veterans. Attending beauty expos, networking events and competitions can also provide exposure and open up opportunities. Additionally, building a strong online presence through social media platforms can help showcase your work and attract potential clients.

Ramandeep Khare, Salon Manager, Marie Claire Paris Salon

The Journey: AAfter my 12th exams, my family wanted me go to Australia or England for higher studies. Because of Covid I was unable to go. I decided to do something different and enrolled in a cosmetology course at Orane International. I then focussed on hairdressing, makeup designing and management skills. After completing the course, I applied for a job at Marie Claire in Indore and got selected as a junior hairdressers and assistant manager.

The Highpoint: When I was appointed the Salon Manager at Marie Claire Paris Salon Indore.

The Challenges: Facing challenges is where the real journey starts and overcoming them is where nourishment of your personality happens. Immediately after completing my course, I got a job in a local parlour as a junior beautician at R1500 per month. Surviving with this much amount in a PG living in Indore was definitely a challenging task for me.

The Vision: I’m excited about where my career is heading. I plan to continue developing my skills in management. I also want to spread my knowledge and expertise to nurture new talent as a salon educator. My long-term dream is to open my own salon abroad.

The Mentors: Ritu Agarwal, Director, Orane International, Indore; Kartavya Yadav, Owner, Marie Claire Salon, Indore; and U V Ghai, Makeup Educator.

Aman Kumar Rai, Stylist, LOOKS Salon

The Journey: The journey of a hairdresser in the salon industry is both creative and challenging, requiring passion, skill and dedication. Shadowing experienced hairdressers has honed my skills and helped me learn the dynamics of the trade.

Mastering advanced techniques, staying updated with trends and investing in continued education has helped me stay relevant and address my clients’ needs efficiently. Success in the industry often hinges on building strong, loyal client relationships through excellent service and communication. I look forward to now specialising as a hair colourist.

The Highpoint: Establishing a strong, loyal client base is a significant accomplishment. It reflects the quality of my work and my connect with my clients. Giving my best to my customers is and always will be my biggest achievement.

The Vision: I want to be an educator and teach aspiring stylists. Being invited to teach at beauty schools, host workshops or perform as a platform artist at global events solidifies a hairdresser’s reputation as an industry expert. I aspire for a continued career with high-profile clients, styling for major events, and collaborations for fashion shows and photo shoots.

The Mentor: Amir Khan, Creative Director, LOOKS Salon

Jitendra Rohidas Chaudhari, Senior Pedicurist and Nail Artist, Enrich

The Journey: I come from a small village Shirsale in Maharashtra. Seven years ago, I moved to Mumbai and started working in a small grocery shop. Luckily, I met Dr Rekha Chaudhari. She guided me to attend a nail art course in Nandurbar. After completing the course, with Dr Chaudhari’s help I got placement at Enrich. For three years, I worked as a nail artist, then upgraded myself to become a senior pedicurist. I have been with Enrich for the past seven years now.

The Highpoint: I was able to buy my own house in Panvel in 2022. It was the biggest achievement of my life and it was possible only because of my job at Enrich.

The Challenges: Since I am from a small village, the major challenge I faced was the language barrier. Initially I didn’t understand English at all, but gradually I learned. At first, I was unable to convince the clients for services but slowly I gained confidence and my communication skills improved.

The Vision: I see myself as a trainer in 10 years’ time. The Mentor: Dr Rekha Chaudhari

Vicky Panchal, Independent Makeup Artist and Educator

The Journey: For me, the journey in this industry has been a challenge as there is a lot of competition. Although I have kept my art versatile by doing makeup in every genre i.e. editorial, fashion and runway, bridal makeup has kept me going in this competitive scenario.

The Highpoint: My key achievements include working at Lakme Fashion Week, and at Femina Miss India 2024 and with celebrities. However, my biggest achievement is yet to come. I hope to bring a big change in the industry through education.

The Vision: To be amongst the top five makeup educators in India The Mentors: Celebrity makeup artists Raphael Oliver, Mickey Contractor, Painted by Spencer and Samer Khouzami.

Solemn Panguinao Head trainer, T&T Professional

The Journey: I started my profession at Tip&Toe Salon as a nail technician in 2012. I’m so glad that I’ve chosen the right path. I love my job! I get to meet different people and gain new experiences in life.

The Milestone: Doing the nails of Katy Perry in October 2018 for her Hawaii Tour in Mumbai

The Vision: I want to learn more and improve my technical and leadership skills. I want to become well-known in my field and make my company one of the most successful in India’s beauty industry.

The Challenge: Staying far away from my parents in a rented place – I had to face many ups and downs. But I overcame these with confidence, patience, perseverance and passion.

The Mentor: Wonluishon Ragui (Shon), National Head Trainer, LYN

Vineeta Anant Salvi, Hairstylist, Hairmechanixx Salon

The Journey: Hailing from a middle class background, I started as an assistant four years ago. I worked my way up to be a stylist at one of the top salons in the city. I’ve learnt so much and had an opportunity to work with such amazing clients.

The Highpoint: My biggest achievement has been winning the prestigious ‘Stylist of the Year’ award at the Indian Beauty Awards. It was an incredible feeling to be recognized for my work and to know that all my hard work and dedication had paid off.

The Challenges: Staying up-to-date with latest trends and techniques. The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and it can be difficult to keep up. Another challenge I’ve faced is managing my time effectively and balancing my work and personal life. However, I’ve learned to prioritise my tasks and make time for the things that are important to me.

The Vision: I see myself representing my own brand as a lady barber in the next 10 years.

The Mentors: Montie Thankie, Director, Siddhesh Acharekar and Shabnam, Creative Directors, Hairmechannix Salons, and my mom who is a great example of beauty with brains and confidence.

Wendy Christine D’silva Creative Director, Savio John Pereira Salon

The Journey: It’s been great so far! I’m grateful for the tremendous opportunities and exposure from my boss Savio. I have worked with famous personalities, got trained on good product brands and have been part of interesting workshops.

The Challenge: It was a challenge a few years ago to achieve specific technical results due to the unavailability of certain products but currently we have some great products in the market to work with.

For me, every day is a challenge! I’m always anxious to see the end result of my work, considering we have so many different faces and complexions to work with. But the ultimate satisfaction is when I bring a smile to them.

The Highpoint: Worked on ad films for brands such as Big Switch, Emotional Atyachaar, Samsung and Godrej. I’ve done hair and makeup for celebrities like Randeep Hooda, Cricketer Bhuvaneshwar Kumar and Dinesh Karthik, and F1 drivers Paul di Resta and Adrian Sutil, Jonita Gandhi, Gauri Pradhan, RJ Erica, Sharman Joshi. I’ve also worked with brands like Diesel, Steve Madden, Paul Shark, Quiksilver and Timberland. Other highlights include performing on the stage of Salon India, creating collections with Team SJP, working backstage at Times Fashion Week and TIGI Influencer Campaign.

The Mentors: Adhuna Bhabani, Founder, and Shefali Shetty, Ex-Director, BBlunt Salons; Yaimi Tungshang, Creative Director, SJP Salons; and of course, Savio John Pereira. He helped me get over my stage fright and made me adept at male styling.