BEAUTY TALKS
How did you overcome the initial challenges of entering the industry?
JO: One of the challenges that I faced when I first entered the industry is people not believing in my capabilities just because I’m new and just starting my career. To overcome this, I just continued doing what I love and growing as a hairstylist to prove to them that I am more than what they think I am.
CR: I’m a very shy person. I’m not much of a talker especially when I’m in a crowd of strangers. So, I had to overcome my anxiety so I can work and communicate with a team of creatives to make the look the best it could be. I also surround myself with people that I vibe with and that helps me a lot in expressing my artistic style.
DM: Lack of experience made me think twice if I should still pursue hairstyling. Good thing there are a lot of tutorials available online that helped me improve my work. I also learned first-hand from experienced hairstylists.
Tell us your favorite look and is there any hairstyle you would like to do for a specific muse in the future?
JO: The most memorable ones are Rei Germar’s performance look in YouTube Fan Fest, and my favorite middle part, highbun that I’ve done to Ry Velasco and Rei Germar for their Louis Vuitton shoot.
If given the chance, I want to work with Anne Curtis or Marian Rivera in the future. I feel like my style suits them very well.
CR: Our team was once tasked to showcase our interpretation of Filipino folklore in a very high-fashion and modern style.
My dream celebrity that I hope to work with is Bella Poarch because I love her personality and her unconventional style.
DM: Our editorial feature for the 30th Anniversary issue of MEGA Magazine where I transformed a mullet haircut into a ’70s shaggy tight curls is one of my favorites.
If given the chance to do Winnie Harlow’s hair, I will be the happiest hairstylist ever. I imagine doing a blown-out big-hair look that will bounce softly when she does her catwalk.
What about the beauty industry do you like the best and are there any beauty movements that you would like to see more of?
JO: I always love how the industry challenges me to create looks that have never been seen, and that I get to work with people with the same level of passion. I am also looking forward to seeing the beauty industry be more diverse and people embracing more of their natural beauty.
CR: I hope that the industry will give more chances to young artists so that we can continue expressing our artistry.
DM: I am currently happy with what I am witnessing now. Seeing photos and videos that promote gender sensitivity, body positivity, and inclusivity.
Can you share with us your go-to products and vital tricks to make hair look beautiful?
JO: All of my clients know that I use a toothbrush to keep the hair clean and to tame all of the baby hairs. For products, I can’t do hair without the Living Proof hairspray. It’s not crunchy, it smells good, and it will make the hairstyle last. I also love the brands Bumble and Bumble, Olaplex, and Ouai.
DL: Using heat from a blower and iron is part of the preparatory process of any look, but it can be damaging to the hair. So, during the preparation process, I always use a good heat protectant and a leave-in conditioner.
What is your most crucial piece of advice to other aspiring hairstylists?
JO: My advice to them is to keep doing what they love and to keep the passion always burning. Skills can be learned but the dedication that it takes for this craft is hard.
CR: Stay grounded, protect your energy, and vibrate higher.
DM: Aside from talent, I believe that work ethic is the most significant part of being a creative. Three things that I always keep in my mind are to respect your mentors, build a good relationship with the people in the industry, and keep yourself grounded.