Andrea Alarcon is a talented stylist at Kut Haus Salon in Claremont, California, but she is also an international educator, an Oligo Pro ambassador and most importantly a strong proponent of the transformative power of hair.
Courtesy of Andrea Alarco
We love seeing the beautiful color creations that Andrea Alarcon (@a.hairpower) brings to life, so we knew we had to reach out to her to find out where she draws her inspiration. Alarcon is a talented stylist at Kut Haus Salon in Claremont, California, but she is also an international educator, an Oligo Pro ambassador and most importantly a strong proponent of the transformative power of hair. Read on to see how she draws inspiration from nature, her tenacious mom and her colleagues.
1. My Mom
My mother, Andrea Manriquez, has always been my biggest inspiration. Witnessing her journey to the USA as an immigrant, single parent with 3 children, limited resources and unfamiliar surroundings, she has demonstrated resilience, tenacity and a strong work ethic that left a lasting impression on me. Despite the challenges she faced, I watched as she built a new life for me and my siblings. Her ability to overcome obstacles and succeed in a foreign land inspire me to follow my own dreams in the beauty industry, knowing that with dedication and hard work, I too can make a difference in people’s lives through the art of hairstyling.
2. The Beauty Of Nature
The beauty and harmony found in nature have influenced and fueled my passion for hairstyling. The intricate patterns found in the delicate petals of a flower, the graceful flow of a river and the vibrant hues of a sunset all speak to me in a language of beauty and creativity. I am constantly in awe of nature's ability to create effortlessly stunning combinations of colors, shapes and textures. Taking long walks, hiking and spending alone time in nature help reshape my creativity. I find joy in transforming hair into works of art that enhance one’s natural beauty and bring out their unique features.
3. The Transformative Power of Hair
At 16, I enrolled in cosmetology school through ROP, a program designed to provide high school students with quality career education and hands-on experience. Seeking to make myself feel better and enhance my own sense of confidence, I found myself in the perfect place. I was allowed to express myself in many different ways that filled me with empowerment. As I experimented with different styles and techniques, I found that the act of creating beauty with my own hands was not only therapeutic but incredibly fulfilling. In the process, I realized that my true joy came from seeing the smiles on other’s faces when they looked in the mirror and felt truly beautiful. It was at that moment, I knew hairstyling was not just a passion but a calling—to uplift, empower and make others feel their best through the transformative power of hair. A hairpower was born.
4. My Salon Colleagues
Working at Kut Haus Salon surrounded by a diverse group of talented hair artists with unique styles and techniques has been an endless well of inspiration for me. Each hair artist brings their own flair, creativity and individuality to the table, creating a vibrant tapestry of diverse ideas and approaches to hairstyling. Each artist’s perspective and expertise offer a wealth of knowledge and influence that propels me to expand my creativity and develop my own signature hairstyles and techniques. I am truly grateful for the welcoming and supportive environment at the salon, where each member of the team connects with one another and is willing to help at all times.
5. Diverse Cultures and Traditions
One of the most enriching sources of inspiration comes from studying different cultures and traditions from all over the world. I find it truly fascinating to see them unfold and change over time. The diversity of hair expressions across different cultures is a testament to the rich tapestry of human creativity and self-expression. Each cultural approach to hair care and styling serves as a window into the values, beliefs and individuality of the people who practice them. In this way, hair becomes not just a physical adornment but a profound and meaningful reflection of cultural identity and heritage, showcasing the beauty and diversity of human expression.
