4 Essential Ways to Become a Better Hair Colorist Whether you're new to the industry or remember when everyone wanted Kelly Clarkson's chunky highlights, becoming even more adept at hair coloring is a must. Not only is color one of the biggest moneymakers in the salon, but when applied expertly, it builds client retention and loyalty. 1 Continuous learning (and relearning) If there's one thing to be said about the hair industry, it's that it's continually evolving. That means you need to evolve too. Be sure to seek out top educators who can help you break out of creative ruts and stay relevant. In fact, Hb Fest has more than 30 top-tier educators you can learn from! Learn cut, color, extensions, style and more—all at the gorgeous JW Marriott in Palm Desert, September 13-15, 2025. Just sayin'! 2 Learn the Whys behind the formulas Move beyond copying or memorizing formulas and foil placement. Understanding the science behind color will help you customize, troubleshoot and elevate your results and reputation. Foiling Masterclass with Tabitha Dueñas : Learn when—and why—to use vertical, diagonal, horizontal placement. Color Correction with Confidence with Cassandra McGlaughlin : Advanced color theory, chemistry and technique. 3 Master the art of the consultation Whether your client is a ride-or-die or brand-new, asking, "So what are we going to do today?" is NOT a consultation! Find out the hair's chemical history, including relaxers, keratin treatments, past color—clients may not understand that rinse they put on their hair was color, but bleach don't lie. Review inspo images together. Ask your client to describe—in detail—what they like or dislike about their inspo photos. These tactics will help you manage expectations and effectively communicate costs. 4 Document and reflect on your work Consider starting a formula journal or digital portfolio. By taking notes and photos of what worked (and what didn't), every client becomes a learning opportunity. Over time, patterns will emerge, and your ability to make smarter, better and faster decisions will grow. Ready to Master Your Craft? Discover world-class education and take your skills to the next level Explore Education