Entries are now open for the 2027 Americas Beauty Show (ABS) by Cosmetologist Chicago Global Image Awards, inviting beauty professionals from around the world to put their artistry on a global stage.
Each year, ABS brings its show's theme to life; 2026 centered around "THRIVE," a theme all about growing stronger and bolder in your craft. At the heart of the 2027 Show is PULSE - the artistry, energy and community that move professional beauty forward.
The Global Image Awards brings PULSE to life, recognizing and celebrating creativity, vision, and technique within the industry.
Global Image Award Categories
Creative Color
A celebration of innovative color, technical precision, dimension and a distinctive artistic point of view.
2026 Winner: Brayden Pelletier | @justbhair
Haircutting
Advanced cutting techniques and innovative design come together in a category where the cut commands attention.
2026 Winner: David Barron | @david.barron.5
Texture Expert
Celebrating the knowledge, versatility and creativity behind working with curls, coils, waves, kinks and natural or created texture.
2026 Winner: Chrystofer Benson | @cbensonhair
Classic Color
Exceptional color doesn’t have to shout to make an impact. Dimensional brunettes, seamless balayage, lived-in blondes, rich reds and beautiful, salon-ready color take center stage.
2026 Winner: Sandie Tucker | @thehairphoenix
Full Concept
Don’t just create a look. Create a world. Hair, color, cut, wardrobe, makeup, nails and styling come together to tell one complete creative story.
2026 Winner: Michelle O’Conner | @michelleoconnorbeauty
Barbering
Where craft meets culture. Precision cutting, fading, clipping, grooming and beard shaping showcase the technical mastery and individuality of modern barbering.
2026 Winner: Carlos Estrella | @loscutit
Motion AI
In 15 seconds, artists bring transformation, technique, process and the final reveal to life through motion.
2026 Winner: Carlos Estrella | @loscutit
Winners of the global competition will be honored at the ABS Global Image Awards on Sunday, April 4, 2027, during America’s Beauty Show. Winners will also receive international recognition, extending the reach of their artistry well beyond the ABS stage.
