Corey Passage, Author at Pivot Point International

Dear Friends, 

Beauty, barber, and wellness schools—you can help us make a lasting impact! 

Beauty Changes Lives is the leading provider of industry scholarships, awarding over $500,000 annually to students. These scholarships empower the next generation of beauty, barber, and wellness professionals, helping them turn their passion into a fulfilling career. 

We need your support to make this mission possible! 

Through their One Day. One Ticket. campaign, Beauty Changes Lives is asking schools like yours to donate $500 (or more) to help us meet our goal and continue transforming lives through education and opportunity.  As a proud founder of Beauty Changes Lives, I am asking for your support.

Why Join Us? 

Make an Impact: Your contribution directly supports beauty school students and industry professionals in need.

Special Thank You Gift: Be among the first 10 schools to donate $500 and receive FREE T-shirts for your instructors (while supplies last).

Ready to Help? 

Click HERE to make your donation today. 

If you have any questions or need further information, please reach out to Beth Wesgaites at beth@beautychangeslives.org. 

Your support fuels the transformative work of Beauty Changes Lives, the leading 501(c)(3) foundation in the beauty industry. Through scholarships, mentorships, grants, and unwavering support, we are shaping the future of our industry and ensuring it remains a first-choice career. 

Thank you for supporting the students, instructors, and professionals who make our industry exceptional. 

A portion of funds raised through One Day. One Ticket. will provide crucial aid to colleagues and friends impacted by recent natural disasters across the country. 

Warm regards,

Robert Passage
Chairman and CEO
Pivot Point International, Inc.

PIVOT POINT INTERNATIONAL, INC. | 8725 West Higgins Road | Suite 700 | Chicago, IL 60631 | 847-866-0500

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Pivot Point Launches Wellness Initiative: The Foundation of a Flourishing Career

At Pivot Point, we recognize that mental, physical and emotional wellness is at the heart of empowering beauty professionals and schools to thrive. In the beauty industry, professionals uplift clients by enhancing their confidence and well-being, creating profound connections. Yet, the emotional and physical demands of this rewarding work can be significant.

That’s why we’ve launched this initiative to make wellness a core pillar of our mission. As part of this commitment, Pivot Point is proud to announce the launch of a dedicated “wellness marketplace.” This hub of valuable information and resources is designed specifically for beauty industry professionals.

Original Research to Address Beauty Industry Wellness Challenges

To ensure our wellness initiatives address real needs, we conducted two groundbreaking research studies. One focused on the wellness needs of beauty school students and instructors. The other explored the challenges faced by industry professionals. These studies provide crucial insights into the key obstacles impacting our community’s well-being.

Wellness Research: Professionals

This white paper, in partnership with The Tease, highlights a need to prioritize wellness for beauty professionals as part of our broader industry efforts to support a thriving workforce. While this report represents an initial exploration, it provides a foundation for further study and action, ensuring that beauty professionals have the tools and support they need to succeed.

DOWNLOAD NOW

Wellness Research: Schools

This white paper, based on recent research conducted by Pivot Point International, explores the wellness challenges within beauty schools today. By examining the experiences of both students and their instructors, the research highlights barriers to student engagement, graduation and instructor retention, while identifying strategies and tools to address them.

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Strategic Partnerships

Pivot Point is collaborating with renowned organizations and thought leaders to deliver innovative wellness solutions:

The Vitality Project: In partnership with Elizabeth Faye, we’ve launched a groundbreaking wellness education catalog tailored specifically for beauty schools. This initiative brings essential wellness education to the classroom, empowering future professionals with tools to thrive.
Shear Haven Collaboration: Our partnership with Shear Haven has created a domestic violence awareness guidebook. This empowering resource equips beauty professionals with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference in the lives of their clients and communities.

Pivot Point Curriculum

Within our Fundamentals education, we aim to create a strong wellness foundation for lasting success.

Fundamentals Curriculum Series: Pivot Point’s Fundamentals curriculum series includes lessons on mental health, wellness and communication. These topics are now a central part of the beauty education experience, ensuring that wellness is woven into the fabric of our professional training.

Additional Resources

Resource Links: The wellness marketplace includes links to other organizations and professionals dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of beauty professionals.

Pivot Point’s commitment to wellness is more than a program—it is a foundation for creating a thriving beauty industry. By prioritizing wellness, we aim to build confident, compassionate professionals who transform lives and elevate their craft. Please click here to discover more about why WELLNESS MATTERS at Pivot Point International.

This new wellness pillar joins our Diversity and Inclusion, Sustainability Pledge, Textured Hair Support and Ethical Standards pillars as a foundation for Pivot Point’s mission to lead, inspire and support the beauty industry.

For more information, please contact:

Steve Reiss
Strategic Marketing & Business Insights – Pivot Point International, Inc.
sreiss@pivot-point.com
https://www.pivot-point.com/

About Pivot Point Research

We understand industry relationships and trends, ensuring your research objectives are met with actionable, real-world insights.

Whether your research is for internal intelligence or to support sales and marketing, we can help you explore all your research options. Knowing that quick turnaround is often a consideration, our industry relationships and experience help us provide you with the most time-effective solution.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH YOU!

Research – Pivot Point International

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Curls Run the World

by Pivot Point Product Experience Senior Manager, Jason Russell

Every time I start a curly hair seminar—and trust me, I’ve hosted hundreds—I love to set the tone with a simple question inspired by Beyoncé: “Who runs the world?” Of course, the crowd enthusiastically shouts back, “GIRLS!” But then, with a smile, I flip the script: “No, CURLS!”

Teaching wavy, curly, and coily hair styling is an art that demands not only great wet styling products but also an exceptional mannequin product. And when it comes to curly hair workshops, having multiple mannequins that represent the full spectrum of hair textures is a game-changer. That’s where Pivot Point steps in.

Pivot Point offers a diverse range of mannequins designed to mirror every type of client’s hair—from straight and wavy to curly, very curly, and coily. These mannequins are perfect for mastering protective styles like braiding, twists, and knots. But what truly sets them apart is their versatility; they’re also excellent for heat styling and chemical services, including blow drying, silk-pressing, diffusing, and relaxing.

Why Pivot Point Mannequins Are a Must-Have for Texture Workshops

One question I get asked often is, “What makes Pivot Point mannequins the best choice for curly hair training?” For me, the answer is simple: these mannequins mimic real-life curls to perfection. Here’s why:

100% Human Hair: The mannequins are crafted with human hair, so the curls behave exactly like those of a real client. The curl pattern begins right at the scalp, offering an authentic experience for stylists.
Chemical-Free Curling Process: Pivot Point uses a unique curling process that’s completely free of chemicals. This allows me to experiment with mild relaxing formulas, whether Thio or Hydroxide, without compromising the integrity of the mannequin hair.

Durability and Ethics: Two Key Factors for Curly Hair

Another reason I swear by Pivot Point mannequins is their durability. Whether I’m performing heat services, chemical treatments, or intricate styles, these mannequins hold up remarkably well, maintaining their integrity through repeated use. It’s a win-win!

Equally important to me is ethical production. I’m proud to align with Pivot Point’s commitment to ethical manufacturing practices. It’s comforting to know that the mannequins I use in my workshops are created with respect for both people and the planet.

Meet My Trusty Curly Hair Workshop “Clients”

Maya, Janet, Elijah, Michelle, Amber, and Cameron—these are just a few of my loyal “clients.” They’re always ready for anything I throw their way, from braids to blowouts. And while they may not say much, I know they love their hair every time!

When it comes to texture education, having the right tools makes all the difference. And with Pivot Point’s curly mannequins, I know I’m setting my students up for success while honoring the beauty of every curl, wave, and coil.

LEARN MORE ABOUT JASON RUSSELL

Special Offer: Experience the Authenticity of Pivot Point’s Curly Hair Mannequins

Take your expertise to the next level with mannequins designed to perfect your skills on all hair types.

Crafted with 100% human hair and a chemical-free curling process, these mannequins offer an authentic experience for protective styles like braiding, twists and knots, heat styling and chemical services.

For a limited time, enjoy up to 30% off our textured hair mannequins—perfect for all experience levels. This exclusive sale runs from February 1 – 28, 2025, or while supplies last.

Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your skills with Pivot Point’s must-have mannequins.

👉 Shop the Sale Now

Textured Hair Resources

California Now Requires Textured Hair Training in Beauty Schools

PBA’s Texture Education Collective

Textured Hair Research

Texture Starts Here

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Elevate Makeup Education with MuseBeauty.Pro on LAB

Are you searching for top-tier resources to enhance your beauty school’s makeup curriculum? Look no further than MuseBeauty.Pro, now available through LAB! This exciting partnership delivers cutting-edge makeup education designed to prepare students for success in the professional beauty industry, ensuring your school stands out to prospective students and keeps your current learners engaged.

Why Choose MuseBeauty.Pro?

MuseBeauty.Pro is renowned for its dedication to empowering schools, educators, and learners with:

Professional-Grade Makeup Kits: Tailored to suit every budget and curriculum.
Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering everything from foundational techniques to advanced artistry and airbrush skills.
Exclusive Industry Insights: Featuring interviews with makeup icons and ongoing mentorship opportunities.

Comprehensive Makeup Lessons for Every Learner

MuseBeauty.Pro’s program is built to provide exceptional value to beauty schools and their students. Highlights include:

11 Core Lessons on essential topics like “Perfecting the Complexion,” “The Balanced Eye,” and “Contour: Shape & Highlight.”
6 Supplemental Lessons covering advanced skills, such as color theory and the history of makeup artistry.
Airbrush Training Modules with detailed lessons on techniques, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

Each lesson provides engaging resources for students, featuring slide decks, detailed plans, hands-on activities, and professional-grade tools.

A Commitment to Diversity and Excellence

MuseBeauty.Pro celebrates artistry for all, offering tools and techniques that cater to every skin tone, style, and genre—from bridal beauty to editorial fashion. Their kits feature cruelty-free, vegan products from elite brands like ESUM Cosmetics and KETT Cosmetics, ensuring quality and ethical standards.

Ready to Amplify Your Makeup Curriculum?

Request more information here to learn more about MuseBeauty.Pro!

Enhance Beauty School Curriculums with Content Partners

Interested in learning more about our Supplementary Content available on LAB? Click here to see our entire Content Partner library, complete with catalogs that include business skills, money management, social media marketing, product knowledge and advanced beauty education. Enhance your student’s learning experience with additional education from industry experts!

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Make sustainability easy with the Cap Series Mannequin Recovery Program, designed to support both your school’s sustainability journey and our latest product innovation.

We’ve partnered with Green Circle Salons to create a simple, efficient recycling solution for our Cap Series—a line that’s revolutionizing the way students learn with mannequins.

The Cap Series is more than just a mannequin; it’s a lifelong learning tool. By eliminating traditional foam and using interchangeable caps with different hair lengths, textures, and colors, one reusable headform offers endless versatility. This setup means less waste, fewer discarded materials and a powerful eco-friendly alternative to traditional mannequins. It’s a blend of quality and environmental responsibility.

With our latest recycling program, you don’t have to worry about managing mannequin waste. Green Circle Salons will handle the recycling for you, so you can easily send back used hair caps and support your own sustainability goals without hassle.

How The Program Works

Once enrolled in the program, simply log into Green Circle Salon’s online portal to request a recycling box. This box will be shipped directly to you, complete with recycling labels and prepaid shipping. Just fill it with your used caps, seal it up and send it back. It’s that simple—easy, convenient and hassle-free!

What The Program Includes

Get all the tools, training, and support you need to make eco-conscious practices a natural part of your school.

Welcome Kit: All materials and supplies to get started.
Staff Training: Comprehensive training for a smooth integration.
Digital Marketing Toolkit: Showcase your sustainability efforts to your community and prospective students.
Custom Online Portal: Manage the program, track shipments and access resources with ease.
Pre-Labeled, Carbon-Neutral Shipping: Sustainable, hassle-free shipping for all cap returns.
Community: Join the Green Circle Salons network and connect with schools dedicated to eco-conscious practices.

For more information about the Green Circle Salons and Pivot Point Mannequin Recycling Program for schools, please contact:

Mark Budihas
Head of Schools & Academies – Green Circle Salons
mbudihas@greencirclesalons.com
https://greencirclesalons.com//

About Pivot Point International:

Pivot Point International has been a leader in beauty education for over 60 years and is committed to developing innovative solutions that elevate the beauty industry while promoting sustainability and creativity.

Pivot Point also manufactures eco-friendly Cap Series mannequins, offering increased portability, reduced storage space and minimized landfill waste. Their Sustainability Pledge serves as the guiding star toward a greener future.

About Green Circle Salons:

Green Circle Salons helps salons, spas, and schools become more sustainable by increasing revenue, attracting clients, and saving money—all through ethical, simple-to-implement practices that significantly reduce beauty waste. They recover and recycle up to 95% of beauty waste, including hair, foils, and color, to create a greener industry.

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Drop Everything—Our Holiday Savings Are Here!

The holiday season is here, and so is our annual 50% Off Price Drop Event! Enjoy discounts of up to 50% off on select hair (mannequins & swatches), tools, and education designed to provide you with diverse opportunities to practice your skills. From cutting and coloring to styling and other chemical services, our unbeatable prices will set you up for a season filled with creativity. Click on the hyperlinks below for direct access to these discounts!

SHORT ON TIME?

*Download a complete list of all the products on sale!

Download List

Drop into our sale today and unwrap the exciting possibilities that await you this holiday season! Remember, the clock is ticking, and these savings won’t last.

*Not all products in the downloadable PDF are listed on our website for the Pivot Point 50% Off Price Drop Sale. Contact us at info@pivot-point.com or call 847-866-0500 to place a discounted order on those products. Or reach out directly to your dedicated Client Success representative for assistance.

Expires on December 31, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. CT. Prices are subject to change without notice. Offers good only in the United States. Sezzle: On orders over $75. Subject to approval.

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Chicago, IL—10/13/2024—Pivot Point International, a leader in beauty education and innovation, offers a series of comprehensive guides designed to empower beauty and wellness professionals. These guidebooks provide the knowledge and tools needed to create more inclusive, responsible, and supportive environments.

In collaboration with key industry partners, Pivot Point has developed these resources to help professionals navigate important social issues. Our goal is to make a meaningful impact within their salons, businesses, and communities. The guides offer insights, best practices, and actionable steps on key topics such as diversity, equity and inclusion, sustainability, and domestic violence awareness. Each guide is designed to help address these important issues effectively.

The newly released social awareness and inclusivity guides include:

DEI-B Industry Reference Guide: This guide offers best practices for fostering Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI-B) in the beauty industry. The tool provides actionable strategies to promote inclusivity in the workplace and beyond.

DEI-B Industry Reference Glossary of Terms: The glossary delves deeper and defines commonly—and some uncommonly—encountered words and phrases concerning Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEI-B) and the beauty industry.

Green Beauty Community Guidebook: Developed in partnership with the Green Beauty Community, a resource dedicated to sustainability in the beauty industry. The guide offers guidance on eco-friendly practices, responsible product choices, and ways to reduce environmental impact in salon operations.

Shear Haven Domestic Violence Awareness Guidebook: Developed in partnership with Shear Haven, this guide raises awareness of domestic violence and equips beauty professionals with the knowledge and resources to recognize and support individuals who may be experiencing abuse.

Pivot Point International Offers Industry Guides to Foster Social Awareness and Inclusivity

“At Pivot Point, we believe in empowering beauty professionals not only through education in their craft but also through a deeper understanding of social issues that impact their clients, businesses and communities,” said Robert Passage, CEO of Pivot Point International. “These guides are part of our commitment to fostering a more inclusive, responsible, and supportive beauty industry.”

These guides are now available to beauty and wellness professionals through Pivot Point’s platforms. By providing these resources, Pivot Point continues to lead the industry in promoting social awareness and positive change.

Click here for more information and to access these guides.

About Pivot Point International

Pivot Point International is a global leader in beauty education, providing innovative solutions and educational tools for over 60 years. Pivot Point is committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and social responsibility. They empower beauty professionals to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in the industry.

For more information, please contact:

Steve Reiss
Strategic Marketing & Business Insights – Pivot Point International, Inc.
sreiss@pivot-point.com
https://www.pivot-point.com/

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Green Circle Salons & Pivot Point International Announce Mannequin Recycling Program for Schools at the AACS Annual Conference

HOUSTON, TX—10/25/2024—Pivot Point International, a global leader in beauty education, has partnered with Green Circle Salons to launch the beauty industry’s first-ever mannequin recycling initiative. This groundbreaking program, introduced at the 2024 AACS Annual Conference, features a recycling program for Pivot Point’s eco-friendly Cap Series mannequins.

The program reinforces Pivot Point and Green Circle Salons’ commitment to the school community, sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Pivot Point Cap Series Mannequin Recycling for Schools Program:

Empowering schools to champion sustainability through simple recycling solutions and meaningful connections.

Welcome Kit – Includes all necessary program materials and supplies
Staff Training – Comprehensive education to ensure seamless implementation
Digital Marketing Toolkit – Schools can easily promote their commitment to sustainability to their community and prospective students
Custom Online Portal – Streamline program management, track shipments, and access program resources
Pre-Labeled, Carbon-Neutral Shipping – All shipments are prepped and ready for sustainable delivery
Community – Join the Green Circle Salons community and connect with like-minded professionals committed to eco-conscious practices
Membership – Free Green Circle Salons membership (valued at $350)
Cap Series Collection Supplies:
- Special Cap Collection and transport box
- Recycling labels and prepaid shipping

In addition to this new program, Green Circle Salons offers a broader program that includes sustainability certification and supports overall sustainability efforts, becoming the one-stop shop for every beauty school’s recycling needs.

Green Circle Salons Certified Recycling and Sustainable Education Program:

Equip your school with the tools and knowledge to lead the beauty industry toward a cleaner, greener future.

Recover More Waste – Recycle up to 95% of beauty school waste, including traditionally hard-to-recycle items like hair clippings, foils, excess color, aerosol cans, color tubes, and Cap Series mannequins, while also becoming carbon-neutral
Digital Resource Library – Access to a digital resource library of content for both students and staff
Certification – Student and educator sustainability education certification
Customizable Program Setup:
- Collection bins and recycle labels for each waste stream (e.g., color, foils, hair, etc.)
- Larger transport boxes for easy shipping
- Prepaid carbon-neutral shipping

For more information about the Green Circle Salons and Pivot Point Mannequin Recycling Program for schools, please contact:

Mark Budihas
Head of Schools & Academies – Green Circle Salons
mbudihas@greencirclesalons.com
https://greencirclesalons.com//

About Pivot Point International:

About Green Circle Salons:

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LABX LIVE: Let’s Recap Pivot Point’s In-Person Learning Event for Beauty Schools

Hosted by Pivot Point in Rosemont, IL, the inaugural LABX LIVE event brought together over 80 educators, school owners, and directors for an inspiring weekend packed with learning and meaningful connections. The highlight? A first look at Pivot Point’s newest educational release—Fundamentals: Cosmetology 2nd Edition

The excitement kicked off with a lively Welcome Reception. Attendees mingled with fellow beauty industry professionals and Pivot Point team members. The energy was electric, setting the perfect tone for the full day of learning ahead. The main event opened with inspiring words from Paul Suttles, Pivot Point’s Sr. Director of Education Experience, and Sabine Held Perez, Vice President of Education.

“We wanted to reconnect with our incredible network of schools and remind them we’re here to support them every step of the way,” Paul shared.

Next up, Daniel Record, one of Pivot Point’s newest team members, delivered an engaging keynote on the importance of balancing educational technology and pedagogy for effective learning outcomes. Drawing from his published work, Daniel highlighted how a deep understanding of how these two tools work together can make all the difference in educational delivery. “I really enjoyed networking with the Pivot Point team and other schools. The session on pedagogy was engaging and informative,” shared one attendee.

The real star of the day? Fundamentals: Cosmetology 2nd Edition!

Jamie Nabielic, the lead education developer on the project, led an exciting deep dive into the new enhancements of Fundamentals: Cosmetology 2nd Edition. Attendees were buzzing as they learned about the innovative updates, including:

New Hair Additions Workshops
Balayage Workshops
Keratin Treatments Theory and Workshop
Eyebrow and Eyelash Services
Gel Polish & Dip Powder
Infection Control & Safety Updates

In the afternoon, attendees got hands-on. Some explored Pivot Point’s LAB Admin tools, while others immersed themselves in practical workshops on Nails, Sculpting/Cutting, and Hair Additions—experiencing the new curriculum in action.

“The hands-on was very helpful. Applying it to the lessons and performing the hands-on together was a good experience,” noted another attendee.

And to top it all off? A Chicago boat tour! Despite the rain (and a little thunder and lightning), attendees soaked up the stunning architecture from the comfort of the boat’s covered deck, cocktails in hand.

It was three days of networking, learning and fun!

“Everyone from Pivot Point was motivational, inspirational, and helpful. It was so nice to be able to put faces and personalities with names,” one attendee remarked.

The weekend concluded with attendees buzzing with excitement and inspiration. As they departed, educators and school leaders expressed their enthusiasm for implementing the new knowledge and resources. LABX LIVE not only showcased Pivot Point’s commitment to advancing beauty education but also strengthened the bonds within its educator community. With new connections formed and fresh ideas in hand, attendees left feeling energized and ready to bring the next level of innovation into their classrooms. The success of this inaugural event has set a high bar! And attendees are already looking forward to what’s in store for future LABX LIVE gatherings.

Hope you enjoyed the LABX LIVE: Recap. Stay tuned for more upcoming LABX LIVE events—you won’t want to miss it!

Interested in staying in the loop? Click here to be the first to know when registration opens!

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Pivot Point has proudly partnered with Shear Haven by offering this Domestic Violence Awareness Guidebook. Domestic violence affects millions across the U.S., with many victims enduring abuse in silence. Cosmetologists often hold a unique position of trust with their clients. This makes them more likely to recognize signs of abuse that may otherwise go unnoticed.

In Illinois, where both Pivot Point and America’s Beauty Show (ABS) are based, domestic violence awareness training is mandatory for cosmetologists. Understanding the critical role beauty professionals can play in supporting victims. This guidebook offers essential tools to help cosmetologists identify and respond to abuse. It also includes valuable information on certification, additional resources, legislation, and advocacy opportunities.

Through this collaboration with Shear Haven, our goal is to empower beauty professionals to make a lasting impact on their client’s lives and help create safer communities for everyone.

Click here to download the Shear Haven Domestic Violence Awareness Guidebook.

About Pivot Point International

Pivot Point International is a global leader in beauty education, providing innovative solutions and educational tools for over 60 years. They are committed to sustainability, inclusivity, and social responsibility. Pivot Point empowers beauty professionals to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in the industry. Click here to access and download a series of comprehensive guides designed to empower beauty and wellness professionals.

About Shear Haven

Shear Haven is an initiative of YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, co-founded by Nashville-based salon owner and stylist Susanne Shepherd Post. A survivor of domestic violence, Susanne is committed to educating the community on the signs of abuse and the resources available to help victims. This domestic violence awareness education program equips stylists with the knowledge and tools to recognize the signs of domestic violence, successfully navigate conversations with clients who may be in danger, and pass along resources that can help them get to safety.

About America’s Beauty Show by Cosmetologists Chicago

For over 100 years, Cosmetologists Chicago® (CC), a non-profit organization owned by licensed beauty professionals for beauty professionals, has upheld a legacy of service to beauty professionals since 1912. Cosmetologists Chicago is an association representing diverse salon professionals. This community includes licensed cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, barbers, salon owners, and cosmetology students. The organization offers support and opportunities for these professionals to collaborate with their peers. It also helps them advance their careers through in-person and on-demand education.

Proudly, Cosmetologists Chicago produces America’s Beauty Show, the largest non-profit event for licensed beauty professionals. America’s Beauty Show offers a platform for professionals to learn, connect, and discover the latest trends, products, and techniques in the beauty, barbering, esthetics, nails, and education sectors. America’s Beauty Show is dedicated to advancing the beauty industry by providing exceptional education and networking opportunities.

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Pivot Point

Author: Corey Passage

Robert Passage Promotes One Day. One Ticket.