We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad's 25 Under 50K contest for 2025, sponsored by SalonCentric.
Here, you will get to know Nikki Scandalous (@nikkiscandalous), a hair artist and owner of Scandalous Artistry in Orlando, FL who specializes in vivids, alternative hair, hair tattoos and extensions.
Q&A with Nikki
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Nikki Scandalous (NS): I collect tiny trinkets, and when I’m an old lady, I fully plan to have a tiny town.
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
NS: My story is long, but I think the spark started when I was a housekeeper at a nursing home. I’d get excited every time it was my turn to clean the salon. I didn’t realize it at the time, but everything in my life was slowly guiding me toward this path.
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment or achievement in the industry so far?
NS: Although I’ve won multiple awards and received more recognition than ever these past few years, my proudest accomplishment is creating Scandalous Artistry Salon and building such an incredible team. I never set out to be a salon owner, but now I see how needed this space really is.
BLP: What is your current favorite hair trend?
NS: I’m obsessed that scene hair is back. As an elder scene girl, it’s the coolest thing to give people the kind of hair I used to want but could never truly get. Full circle moment.
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow beauty pros who are looking to grow their following on socials?
NS: Don’t be afraid to be yourself. The more authentically you show up, the more the right people will find you. You don’t have to be what you think you should be. I wish more people would show up that way online.
BLP: What advice would you give to the younger version of yourself just starting out in the industry, looking back on your whole career?
NS: Take care of your body. Overworking yourself and doing long hours isn’t a flex. Burnout is real.
BLP: What is a tip or technique you’ve learned that’s helped you be more efficient or successful in your services or business?
NS: Under-promise and over-deliver. The consultation is everything. I go over every detail, even what to wear. Being super transparent from the start helps set clear expectations, including creating content together. That way I can move faster and turn every service into a full photo and video moment.
BLP: Who is someone you consider a mentor or role model in the industry?
NS: Rebecca Taylor. I have a lot of artists who inspire my work, but Rebecca has impacted me far beyond just color placement. Joining her coaching program was one of the best things I’ve done for my mental health. She helped me refocus and find my way again.
BLP: What is a practice or ritual you have to care for your mental health and set boundaries between your work and personal life?
NS: I used to be terrible at saying no. I’d come in on my days off and stretch myself thin. I’ve gotten better about honoring my schedule and not working outside of it. Also, touching grass. Getting out in nature, grounding myself and even dipping into a cold spring helps me reset and cleanse my soul.
BLP: What do you think needs to change in the industry to help beauty pros continue to grow and thrive?
NS: I understand the push to elevate the industry, but somewhere along the way that turned into everyone dressing, acting and branding the same. You don’t have to look or sound like everyone else to be taken seriously. Clients will still pay top dollar for a creative experience that feels true to who you are.
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
NS: I want to get the salon to a place where it can run without me, so I can travel and collaborate with other artists more often. Creating full photo shoot concepts and doing transformational work is what lights me up. Whether it’s vivid color or blonding, I just want to make art and connect with other creatives while doing it.
