On the chair with: Nadia Vassell – Essence

Hairdresser of the stars Nadia VassellThe journey of hair has been nothing in need of incredible. Along the way she has done every part from styling for magazines and doing Rihanna’s hair for music videos and TV appearances, to working with Lil’ Mama on awards shows, Ashanti and plenty of more. Eventually she opened her own hair salon, Nadia Vassell’s Salon.

Her love for hair began as a toddler growing up in her hometown of Jamaica. She would accompany her mother to the hair salon every week. Then she began doing her own thing, starting by braiding the hair of close family friends. Additionally, she spent every Sunday washing and curling hair, which only fueled her passion.

To at the present time, she enjoys changing her own styles to specific different parts of her identity and creativity. “Whether I’m cutting my hair one day or dyeing it a vibrant shade the next,” Vassell says, “my hair choices have always been about expressing myself and capturing what I’m feeling at that moment.” Above all, it’s the bond she’s built together with her clients that keeps her going. “They trust me to execute their ideas perfectly. The satisfaction on people’s faces when they leave my salon chair is incredibly rewarding.”

You can read more about her journey below.

Her favorite hairstyles:

“I love silk presses because they allow me to express my creativity while keeping my clients’ hair healthy and beautiful. Whether it’s creating soft waves, bouncy curls, or a smooth, straight look, I love how versatile and flattering silk presses can be.”

Her current favorite products:

“I love Redken bonding procedure for damaged and dry hair, which we offer as a salon treatment. I also love Nutrafol Hair Vitamins AND every day serum“which, when used usually, have resulted in thicker hair for each my clients and me.”

Her top tip for healthy hair:

“Avoid over-styling and give your hair a break from tight ponytails, tight braids and wigs. Take the time to care for your hair by moisturizing regularly and getting a quarterly trim to keep it healthy and strong.”

A hair myth I would like to bust:

“A common hair myth is that braids and extensions cause hair to grow. In reality, neither of these hairstyles promote hair growth. The truth is that while your hair is in braids or extensions, it is not being brushed, exposed to heat, or manipulated in any way, which helps prevent breakage and allows your hair to maintain its natural growth over time.”

What she learned from her clients:

“One thing I’ve learned from my clients, especially women of color, is their incredible passion and tenacity for their work. Many of them have shared with me the challenges they’ve faced and overcome in their careers. Despite the obstacles and adversity, they’ve shown incredible determination and drive. Their stories inspire me and remind me of the importance of resilience and never giving up, which is truly moving and humbling.”