From January 30 through February 1, Federico students were given the incredible opportunity to attend the International Salon and Spa Expo in Long Beach, California. With a full itinerary, Federico students spent the weekend learning about all of the latest salon and spa services and techniques. They attended demonstrations, presentations, and classes over the course of the three days that contributed to both their school credit hours and their development as beauty professionals.

Among the newest services available in salons and spas across the country is Brazilian Keratin Treatments. This special service is a non-chemical treatment that smoothes and straightens any type of hair, and the results can last up to four months. By attending on-site seminars, Federico students became certified in Brazilian Keratin Treatments. In addition, students also became certified in Hair Lock extensions, through the company Bella Donna Milan. The extensions certification program taught our students everything they will need to know about applying, removing, cutting, and styling extensions. Adding both of these to the repertoire of services they will be able to offer to future clients gives our students an edge over the competition.

To enhance their knowledge of cutting, coloring, and styling, students attended several demonstrations by beauty industry leaders. Martin Parson, one of the top long hair stylists in the world, demonstrated knotting, lacing, and folding techniques that showed students more creative ways to style longer hair. The Color by Design class presented by John Simpson showcased creative hair coloring techniques, using light and dark contrast, as well as opaque versus transparent styling. Simpson was the NAHA colorist of the year.

ISSE is about more than just learning the latest techniques and services though. Students are also given an in-depth look into the business side of the beauty industry. Presented by the Professional Beauty Association, the Beacon track of education is normally only available to a very select group of beauty students who participate in a yearly conference. But, a special appearance of the Beacon program at ISSE gave more students the chance to participate. Through presentation by some of the leaders in the industry, Federico students learned about the business of running a salon or spa, and working as a beauty professional.

Students also had a chance to meet with several beauty industry celebrities during their time in Long Beach. Tabitha Coffey, an original cast member of the Bravo show “Shear Genius” was there. Now the host of her own Bravo show, “Tabitha’s Salon Takeover”, Coffey discussed successful salon design, giving students another look into the business side of beauty. Students also had a chance to meet with current “Shear Genius” cast member Faatemah Ampey. Ampey was the emcee of ISSE, and NAHA’s Fashion Forward Stylist of the Year.

Of course, one of the highlights for all of our students was the chance to model for a wide variety of demonstrations. Federico students participated in demonstrations on waxing, airbrush tanning, extensions, hair bling, nail art, and more!