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FAQs – Pivot Point International

About Pivot Point

Discover who we are, what we stand for, and how to connect with our team for more information.

What is Pivot Point?

Pivot Point International, the driving force behind digital learning and development for hair and beauty education, has been pushing the industry forward for over 60 years. Focusing on unrivaled customer engagement and global impact, PIVOT POINT for ALL has always been the vision. Founded by Leo Passage in 1962, three generations of leadership have committed to upholding his legacy of doing what’s right, making a difference, and never compromising integrity, ethics, and trust.

Pivot Point proudly demonstrates corporate responsibility through its adherence to ethical manufacturing and social accountability standards, as established in the production of its premium mannequins and educational tools. The company’s mission to challenge the status quo and fearlessly aim higher has inspired millions worldwide. Pivot Point’s learner-focused curriculum and educational tools are available on six continents. Founded on imagination, creativity, innovation, passion, and perseverance. Pivot Point… A Drive to Educate.

Learn more about our mission and story.

Who was Pivot Point's founder, Leo Passage?

Leo Passage was the founder of Pivot Point International and a visionary in the beauty education industry. Born in the Netherlands, he immigrated to the United States and established Pivot Point in 1962 with the goal of elevating hair and beauty education to an art and a science. A passionate educator and innovator, Leo developed a comprehensive system of education that blended creativity with technical precision — a philosophy that continues to guide Pivot Point today. His legacy lives on through the global community of professionals inspired by his commitment to lifelong learning, design thinking, and excellence in the beauty industry.

You can learn more about his life and impact in the documentary!

What are your normal business hours?

Our U.S. office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. CT.

Visit our Contact Page, email info@pivot-point.com, or call 847-866-0500 during our regular business hours (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CT).

Can I get onsite training at my organization?

Absolutely! When you have Pivot Point provide education in your school, salon or event, you will not only be exposed to the best practices in delivery, but you’ll also be inspired by the technical ability we are so passionate about. We pride ourselves on creating a fun environment that cultivates motivation and inspiration, all while empowering you with the tools you need to succeed. Learn more by clicking here!

Does Pivot Point have resources that help learners pass their state board licensure exams?

Yes. We offer tools and strategies designed to help learners feel confident and prepared for test day. Explore our offerings:

How can I reach the Pivot Point team if I need help?

With over 1,000 years of collective industry experience, our passion is to exceed your expectations and deliver premium service. Please visit our Contact Page, email info@pivot-point.com, or call 847-866-0500 during our regular business hours (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CT).

Discover more about our dedicated team and how they can offer personalized support.

Already know what you need? Reach out directly using the appropriate email address below.

Digital Learning (LAB Platform)

Get help logging in, exploring eBooks, and understanding how our online learning system works.

How do I log into LAB?

Students attending a school using LAB will receive a welcome email with sign-in instructions. Don’t forget to bookmark the URL for future access.

Need help? Email lab-support@pivot-point.com or call 847-866-0500.

Does Pivot Point offer digital versions of the printed textbooks?

Yes, Pivot Point International offers eBook alternatives to traditional book sets. These digital formats are designed to provide easy access to educational content on various devices, making it convenient for students and educators to study and teach from anywhere via LAB, our online learning platform. LAB includes interactive features that enhance the learning experience, such as videos, quizzes, and other multimedia elements.

Why can’t I purchase a digital seat online?

Access to LAB is available only through schools.

How can I schedule virtual LAB training for myself or my team?

You can easily schedule a virtual LAB training session at a time that works best for you or your staff. Simply visit our Virtual LAB Training Calendar to view available sessions and book your preferred time. Once scheduled, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details you need to join your training.

What accessibility features are included in Pivot Point’s digital content?

Pivot Point designs its educational products with a commitment to accessibility and strives toward alignment with WCAG 2.1 AA principles across our learning resources.

Video & Multimedia

  • All instructional videos include human-reviewed closed captions.
  • Voice-over narration is used to ensure key visual content is verbally described.
  • Transcripts are available upon request.

eBooks & PDFs

  • eBooks and PDFs use structured heading hierarchies to support screen reader navigation.
  • Content is screen reader tested and compatible with common browser text-to-speech functionality.
  • The Pivot Point Books app includes a native text-to-speech feature.
  • Color contrast has been evaluated to meet accessibility standards, with limited exceptions in some legacy content.

Enhancements Currently in Development

  • New eBooks with enhanced accessibility features, including:
  • Text-to-speech with voice and playback speed controls
  • Font selection options
  • Alternative text for images and illustrations
  • Mobile-responsive design and simplified layouts to reduce cognitive load
  • Ongoing improvements to Study Slides, including:
    • Voice narration
    • Closed captioning support

Alternative Formats

Pivot Point will provide alternative formats to support your institution’s individual learner needs.


Accessibility is an ongoing priority. We continue to enhance our processes and product development practices to better serve all learners.

For specific accessibility questions or accommodation requests, please contact us at www.pivot-point.com/contact/.

Mannequins & Hair Media

Learn what makes our mannequins world-class, how to care for them, and why ethical craftsmanship matters.

Why do Pivot Point mannequins cost more than other brands?

Pivot Point mannequins are hand-crafted with love by talented artisans who spend OVER 8 HOURS implanting hair, strand by strand, creating natural growth patterns and densities—all to make sure you have the best and most realistic educational experience possible.

Pivot Point mannequins are also ethically manufactured in SA8000-certified facilities that:

  • Guard against forced and child labor
  • Provide workers with a healthy and safe working environment
  • Respect the right of workers to join unions
  • Practice zero-tolerance for discrimination
How do Pivot Point’s mannequin systems support ESG and sustainability goals?

Pivot Point is the pioneer of innovative Slip-On and Cap Series mannequin systems—sustainable, inclusive, and highly efficient—dating back to the 1970s for Slip-Ons and 2005 for the Cap Series. For decades, we’ve been your committed partner in advancing educational excellence while supporting ESG and broader sustainability goals.

By linking product innovation with social responsibility and instructional quality, Pivot Point helps strengthen our industry’s narrative of forward-thinking creativity and meaningful progress.

Learn more about our sustainability pledge.

What are Slip-On and Cap Series mannequins?

These are our sustainable alternative options to traditional foam mannequins. They are eco-friendly products that include our Slip-On and Cap Series mannequin categories, offering reusable bases with 100% human hair attachments.

Cap Series is a space-saving, detachable hair training tool. It’s available in a wide range of lengths and textures, mimicking hair specifications from most of your favorite Original Series mannequins. Cap Series utilizes ABS-recyclable material, eliminating the use of traditional mannequins and reducing waste in landfills. 

Slip-On Series is an affordable, space-saving, foam-free solution. With the same premium quality, 100% human hair you’ve come to expect from us, but in an easy-to-use slip-on design. 

Mannequins 101: Which Series Is Your Perfect Match?

What’s the difference between the Original and Premium Series mannequins?

Original Series mannequins feature small or medium-sized heads. The small head sizes are great for timely services at workshop events and advanced educational training. The medium head sizes mimic a realistic and lifelike experience that is perfect for practicing at home and in school.

Premium Series mannequins feature the largest head size and highest densities, making them ideal for showcasing your work and participating in competitions.

Mannequins 101: Which Series Is Your Perfect Match?

How should I care for my mannequin’s hair?

Treat mannequin hair as you would your client’s—gently and with care. Please review our Care & Maintenance guide, complete with videos, before use.

Why is Pivot Point hair your best choice?

As a privately owned family company, the core of Pivot Point’s business is its people. We are committed to our employees’ well-being. We want to ensure that manufacturers with whom we partner share our values and ethical standards for their employees.

Pivot Point proactively requested SA8000® certification from our contracted hair-manufacturing factory to ensure the quality of goods matches the well-being of the artisans who create them. The SA8000 certification affords our partners the confidence that our educational hair goods are produced in sanctioned conditions.

SA8000® certification solidifies a commitment to human rights by guarding against the use of child and forced labor, discrimination and unfair disciplinary practices, working hours and compensation.

How are Pivot Point hair lengths measured?

We measure hair at a 90-degree angle from both the front and nape, providing a true and consistent measurement. Click here to learn more!

What is your warranty policy on hair goods?

The Pivot Point hair medium is warranted to the original purchaser for a period of one year from the original date of purchase, under normal use and service against defective material or workmanship. Under normal use, some hair loss is to be expected and would not be considered defective. Learn more about our 1-year product warranty and 30-day return policies.

Why should I avoid cheap mannequins?

Cheap mannequins may seem like a cost-saving option, but they often create more problems than they solve. Low-quality hair typically won’t absorb color properly, leading to inconsistent or unrealistic results. Many are blended with synthetic fibers, which can dull professional shears faster and even melt when exposed to heat tools.

They also introduce bad habits into your training. Issues like backward hair implantation, incorrect density, and unnatural distribution mean you’re not practicing on something that reflects real client hair, making it harder to translate your skills behind the chair.

There are also hidden costs. Many professionals end up buying separate “mannequin shears” just to protect their primary tools, which defeats the purpose of trying to save money in the first place.

Finally, ultra-low-cost mannequins often lack transparency in how they’re made. Choosing higher-quality options from brands aligned with ethical standards—such as SA8000—helps ensure better working conditions, responsible sourcing, and a product you can trust that wasn’t created using forced labor.

Investing in a quality mannequin protects your tools, improves your results, and ultimately supports your growth as a professional.

Online Store & Account Management

Manage your online account, update details, and make the most of your shopping experience with Pivot Point.

What happened to my old website account?

Accounts from the previous website were not carried over, and users must create a new account to re-register. The switch from our old website to this new website took place on 8/17/21. By registering, you can save your payment methods and shipping details for a faster checkout experience. You will also be able to create wishlists, manage stock notifications, and view your order history. If you’d like to view your order history from the previous website, please contact us at info@pivot-point.com or call 847-866-0500 so that our Customer Support team can provide you with a transcript of your past activity.

Additionally, opting in during registration enables us to deliver Pivot Point-related news, special promotions, coupon codes, and product updates directly to your inbox, keeping you up-to-date with the latest company developments.

How do I reset my password?

On the My Account page under Login, click the link that says “Forgot password?” and follow the reset prompts. Enter your username or email address to receive a link to create a new password via email. If you can’t find the email, please check your junk/spam folders. Non-existing accounts will not receive a password reset email.

NOTE: Online accounts created on our previous website were not transferred, and users must register. If you’d like to view your order history from the previous website, please contact us at info@pivot-point.com or call 847-866-0500 so that our Customer Support team can provide you with a transcript of your past activity.

What are the benefits of creating an account?

You can order 24/7 online and receive special offers from Pivot Point! You can also:

  • View order history
  • Save payment methods
  • Manage shipping and billing addresses
  • Add items to your Wishlist
  • Manage stock notifications
  • Edit password and account details
  • Check out quicker!
Can I pick up my order at your warehouse?

We are not currently offering pick-up for online retail customers. If you are a Salon or Distributor account, please contact your sales representative to arrange for warehouse pickup or freight deliveries. NO WALK-INS, PLEASE

What is the $15 minimum purchase threshold?

The $15 minimum purchase threshold means your order subtotal must be at least $15 before taxes, shipping, or additional fees are applied. If your cart total is below $15, you’ll need to add more items before checking out.

This minimum rule helps offset shipping and fulfillment costs—especially for lower-priced items, which can be cost-prohibitive to ship on their own. It also allows us to offer a wider range of products, including smaller and more conveniently sized packages.

Orders, Shipping & Returns

Understand how online orders are processed, shipped, and handled—including our return policy.

How long does it take to process an order?

Orders placed by noon CT on any business day will typically ship out the same day (weather permitting). However, warehouse processing time can be up to 48 business hours. If you need your order by a specific date, please call us at 847-866-0500 to place your order over the phone.

Student kit orders require up to 5 business days to be built before they can be shipped.

Learn more in our Shipping & Returns policy.

How can I track my order?

You will receive a UPS tracking number from us when your order ships. Go to UPS Tracking and enter that tracking number to see the status of your order.

To calculate shipping time to your location, please click on the link above. Under the SHIP FROM: ZIP Code field, be sure to enter 60007. Under the SHIP TO: ZIP Code field, be sure to enter the ZIP code for the address you are shipping to. Click Update and review the best shipping method for your needs.

Note: Orders placed after 12:00 p.m. CT will not be processed until the next business day.

Learn more in our Shipping & Returns policy.

What are your shipping rates and delivery schedule?

The UPS Ground shipping rates are based on the dollar value of the items in your order. When choosing UPS Ground, we offer a flat rate of $9.95 for all web orders up to $199.99. Web orders over $200.00 qualify for free standard ground delivery. This offer is exclusive to online shopping only.

If expedited shipping is selected, the cost is determined by your location and the shipping method you choose. Refer to the UPS Shipping Map for more information on transit times. You can also contact the Customer Experience Team at 847-866-0500 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, for more information.

Learn more in our Shipping & Returns policy.

Do these rates apply outside the contiguous U.S.?

Unfortunately, the online shipping options are for the contiguous U.S. 48 states only and do not apply to Alaska, Hawaii or Puerto Rico.

Call 847-866-0500 or email us at info@pivot-point.com for shipping rates to Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and expedited orders exceeding $2,500.

Learn more in our Shipping & Returns policy.

Do you offer expedited or rush shipping?

Yes. If you need your order by a specific date, you can choose from several expedited UPS shipping options during checkout:

  • Next-Day Air
  • 2-Day Air
  • 3-Day Select

For expedited orders over $2,500, please call 847-866-0500 or contact us directly to arrange rush delivery.

Please note that UPS does not guarantee delivery dates for expedited shipments. If you need your order by a certain day, plan accordingly.

Orders placed after 12:00 p.m. CT will be processed and shipped on the next business day.

Learn more in our Shipping & Returns policy.

How do I return or exchange an item?

Contact our Customer Experience Team at 847-866-0500 or via email at info@pivot-point.com from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT, Monday through Friday, to obtain a return authorization number. Click here to review our return policy details.

Student kit orders require up to 5 business days to be built before they can be shipped.

Learn more in our Shipping & Returns policy.

Can I be notified when a product is back in stock?

Yes! You can now subscribe to a waitlist that will send an automated email to your inbox when a specific product is restocked.

To do so, go to a product page that is currently out of stock and scroll to the section that says, “Want to be notified when this product is back in stock?” and click on the Notify Me button.

If you are already logged in, your account email will be used to sign up. If you are not logged in, you will need to enter an email address first.

How can I place an order from outside the U.S.?

Pivot Point supplies the hair and beauty industry with premium products globally—on six continents. Access our International Lookup Form or view our Global Distributor Network.

Payments, Discounts & Promotions

Explore flexible payment options and ways to save on your favorite Pivot Point products when shopping with us.

What online payment methods do you accept?

We strive to make buying from Pivot Point fast, easy and secure! So when it comes time to pay for your purchase, you can choose from any of the following payment options:

  • Debit or Credit Card
    • Visa
    • MasterCard
    • American Express
    • Discover
  • PayPal
  • Pay Later
    • PayPal Credit
    • Pay in 4
  • Venmo
  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Sezzle
    • On orders over $75
    • AmEx not accepted
What is Sezzle (Buy Now, Pay Later)?

Split your entire online purchase into 4 interest-free payments, over 6 weeks, with no impact on your credit (on orders over $75). Consumers’ Sezzle limits vary, and they can view their spending limit by enrolling in the Sezzle program.

NOTE: American Express credit cards are not supported with Sezzle.

Do you offer online discounts?

We offer 10% off your first-time order when you subscribe to our email list. Or 10% off when existing customers submit a product review. Click here to discover more discounts!

Check back periodically to see our featured Mannequin of the Month, bi-monthly clearance sales, discounted bundles, holiday promotions, and more special offers, updated regularly.

How do I use coupon codes?

You must add the item to your shopping cart before entering the coupon code during the checkout process in order to redeem the offer.

Only one coupon code can be used per order. Coupons cannot be used in conjunction with other coupon codes. Coupons do not apply to items already on sale.

NOTE: Items cannot be added after the order has been placed. Only coupon codes issued by Pivot Point are valid on the Pivot Point online shop.

Do you offer affiliate programs?

Yes, we offer several ways to partner with us. For more information, please contact info@pivot-point.com or sign up for our online affiliate program.

Still need help?

Visit our Contact Page, email info@pivot-point.com, or call 847-866-0500 during our regular business hours (Mon–Fri, 8:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CT).

Answers for questions

If you have any questions about one of our products or services, we have the answers. Let us know what’s on your mind and we’ll get right back to you. *Required

GET IN TOUCH

Reach out anytime. We're here to help.

info@pivot-point.com
8725 W. Higgins Road, Suite 700
Chicago, IL 60631
847-866-0500
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