The hairstylist is the never-ending student, in fact, most creative careers are. That’s why, in fields that are as artistic as hair coloring, guidance and education are gifts that satiate a curiosity to try new things and learn how to paint new trends for your most fashion-forward clients.
Now intersect that need with the social technology that dominates our world today. This has resulted in a digital explosion of apps, each unique in its own way and serving different purposes. Most important to note: these are apps designed by the leaders in haircolor products and serve you, by helping hairdressers best utilize their products and education to improve any client’s color.
We spoke to some of the most relevant haircolor industry leaders on the apps aimed exclusively at colorists, and how each can help aid in the art of hair color!
JOICOLOR SYSTEM APP >>>
Joico launched its one-of-a-kind mobile app a year ago –making learning and achieving healthy hair-color easier and more accessible no matter where you are– and with its latest update, pros get the JOI of education boosted yet again, for an easier, faster user experience!
The mobile app, which has already been in play in the U.S and Canada since its launch, has since rolled out in other international markets like Australia and New Zealand, and is targeted to make its debut in Europe later this year – with Latin America (including Brazil) to follow. With over 21,000 downloads and 1,300 average sessions per week! (as of the end of 2016) engagement on this professional’s app is winning over users with its blend of at-your-fingertips info, videos and downloadable education, mixed with its brand of Joi-ful fun.
The Joico JoiColor System App offers users the ability to explore all of Joico’s color lines and learn the ins and outs of each line. From technical product information on what each line is tailored for, to educational content developed to make sure colorists achieve their desired look, using just the right product and technique. Not only can professionals learn the basics of each line through the app so they can decide which best suites their needs, they also have access to all the latest hair-color video tutorials and step-by-step color techniques under the LEARN button.
The JoiColor System App is available on the Apple Store and Google Play. Search “JoiColor” and look for the Joico “J” icon. For more information, visit joico.com
PAUL MITCHELL PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUCAM MAKEUP >>>
Paul Mitchell is kicked-off a partnership with YouCam Makeup that allows consumers the opportunity to virtually try-on a vast assortment of shades from their professional hair color range. Paul Mitchell is the first hair care brand to be featured on the leading beauty app, and the use of consumer-facing, virtual makeover technology is a first for the brand as well.
“Hair color isn’t ‘one-size fits all,’ and we’re thrilled to ease the intimidation that can sometimes come with a potential hair color change,” said Michaeline DeJoria, Vice Chairman at John Paul Mitchell Systems. “Our salon partners are so important to us, and in addition to consumers, we view this as an invaluable tool for Paul Mitchell hair stylists, helping to drive sales of hair color services,” added DeJoria.
YouCam Makeup users will have the opportunity to “try-on” a wide selection of Paul Mitchell Professional Hair Color shades, and then locate a salon nearby to bring the desired shade to life. Utilizing YouCam Makeup’s precise instant hair mapping technology and unmatched natural color layering, the app delivers true-to-life hair color, helping users visualize hair color transformations before committing to a color change—whether used for fun at home, or with a stylist during a consultation.
Paul Mitchell Professional Hair Color is now available for “try-on” with the YouCam Makeup app; YouCam Makeup is available for free in the Apple Store and through Google Play.
SCHWARZKOPF PROFESSIONAL HOUSE OF COLOR APP >>>
Schwarzkopf Professional introduced three easy-to-use, mobile applications that set a new standard for day-to-day salon support. As digital tools are playing an increasingly important role in daytoday salon business; visionary partner Schwarzkopf Professional provides colorists and hair stylists with innovative solutions to help them integrate mobile devices and iPads into their working day.
The innovative applications, which were created by hairdressers, for hairdressers; will change the way that they look at their salon business. The apps will enable hairdressers from all over the world to have access to detailed client consultations, customized color formulations, and 360 degree education in the palm of their hand.
The House of Color application is rounded off with creative inspirations taken from the highly acclaimed semiannual ESSENTIAL LOOKS collection. Stunning images featuring the latest trends inspired by catwalk looks worldwide offer a vivid insight into Schwarzkopf Professional’s creative visions. The ESSENTIAL LOOKS elements that are implemented within the application, make the tool an invaluable resource and reference guide for coloration services in the hairdresser business.
The House of Color mobile applications from Schwarzkopf Professional are available on iPad, iPhone and Android devices.
REDKEN STYLE STATION >>>
The Redken Style Station application has been enhanced to further build the customer experience and loyalty through professional recommendation and ongoing relationships between colorist and client. Style Station application features: more than 6000+ hair color formulas for the perfect formula for every client, every time; Select your client’s starting level, percentage of gray and target end result for inspiration and suggestions—even get Shades EQ refresh formulas.
The Redken Lookbook also features even more must-see looks, complete with step- by-step instructions customizable for every client. Provide a service using it as a consultation tool based on the Redken principles of the Art of Consultation to guide salon professionals in their conversation with clients, from maintenance to creating special event looks. Even more practical yet! A timer with multiple alarm tones that can be set for several clients at once, helping keep clients on schedule and prevent over-processing
“At Redken we are always looking into new ways to enhance communication and build relationships between the stylist and client,” says Nitasha Lavsi, Assistant Vice President of Integrated Marketing Communications at Redken. “With the latest application features developed to support the launch of new Root Fusion, we are able to help open up the dialogue and move these important relationships out of the salon chair.”
New to Style Station, colorists are now able to create a Root Fusion Reminder sending the calendar notification directly to clients. The application allows the colorist to select the timeframe –two, three or four weeks following their service or given date in the future– for their client’s Root Fusion application based on their last color appointment, as well as send client reminders to book regularly-scheduled professional color appointments to keep grey hairs at bay. Notifications sent to clients through the app will include an iCal reminder and a how-to video outlining the steps to Root Fusion’s at-home application.
The Redken Style Station mobile phone application is currently available through the iTunes App Store and the Android Marketplace.
Click. Watch. Learn. 24/7. For more information, visit RedkenPro.com
MYMATRIXFAMILY.COM >>>
MyMatrixFamily.com has been one of the most visited sites for beauty professionals—a place for education, information, inspiration and connection. Desktop, laptop, tablet, mobile—MatrixProfessional.com goes wherever a Matrix professional goes. Knowledge Based Online Certification Program. Simple, accessible, concise and accessible anywhere!
It’s easier than ever to create profiles—professionals can register through Facebook, Google or Twitter. And networking is a definite plus. Professionals can connect with their favorite Matrix artists and educators. This expanded section includes the ability to engage with education team members on their social media platforms. More complete than ever before, hairdressers can browse their favorites, and search by brand, name, category or even best-rated. Now it’s possible to select and tag topics, bringing the best of the web to this professional site.
Visitors can also view video how-tos for each product. What’s more, the review section enables each hairdresser to share feedback and tips with their fellow artists and engage with the professional community and with a SalonCentric account, you can now buy your Matrix products online. Education-minded professionals can check out classes and events in their areas, and truly engange with educators face to face, all with the App/Website/platform.
KEVIN.MURPHY COLOR.ME >>>
The app is a great resource for colorists to utilize in salon to aid in color formulation as well as to access key information about the COLOR.ME brand including usage guidelines, product portfolio, recommended color finishing regimen and more!
The COLOR.ME app also allows colorists to add and store client information and share before/after pictures directly to social media. The custom color area ensures that pros never again forget their own custom creations and can keep and share them in case they need to refer to it in the future!
GOLDWELL EDUCATION PLUS APP >>>
The Goldwell Education Plus App is the ultimate digital resource for stylists. Featuring Goldwell’s unique 3D technology which enables stylists to navigate color placement on looks from every collection. In addition, the app features comprehensive sections on Hair Science and a Seminar Finder where stylists can find Goldwell seminars in their country. The Goldwell Education Plus App is everything that a progressive stylist needs – in the palm of their hand.