5 Things Inspiring Hairstylist Drew Noreen

One of the best parts of this industry is getting to cross paths with so many kind-hearted and extraordinarily talented people. Scottsdale, AZ-based hairstylist and colorist Drew Noreen (@drewjonobeauty) is just one of those individuals. I met Noreen for the first time this year at a trade show, where he styled my hair in gorgeous waves while also sharing his passion for the industry. Since then, each time we’ve crossed paths I’ve made sure to take the time to sit in his chair. Now, he’s taking the time to share with our audience what inspires him as an educator and stylist. 

Drew Noreen and the Nicky Clarke team at Cosmoprof Miami in January 2024.Courtesy of Drew Noreen1. My Peers 

One of the biggest reasons I ever started doing hair was because of my peers. Initially, I was a receptionist at a salon; watching and observing the power of beauty day in and day out. Eventually, this evolved into my stepping in as an assistant for little things like shampoos... and one day a blowdry! Fast forward almost SEVENTEEN years, I still value my peers more than anything. We help each other learn, they challenge me to be better, offer a hug when I need it, inspire me and support me. They are family and being behind the chair without them wouldn’t be the same.'

2. Transformation 

Transformation. What a word. What a power. And yes; I do mean power. Whether it be a simple root touch up or the absolute extreme of black to blonde, a stunning bob or flowing layers and even a simple blowout or extensions can transform how or clients feel about AND perceive themselves. OH! And don’t forget makeup! Seeing a client’s face light up and the ear to ear smile they get at the end of a service makes everything worth it. I know our work is not always easy and it’s not always perfect. We have to recognize that every “head” is different and these transformations are a team effort and can often be an emotional journey and sometimes have their challenges as well. Believe in yourself and the process! A blonde to copper hair transformation by Drew Noreen.Courtesy of Drew Noreen

3. Education 

Where would we be without it!? NONE of us would be doing hair, makeup, nails, facials, (you name it) if it weren’t for education. I genuinely believe that the learning process never stops. From our first day in beauty school to our current day, RIGHT NOW, we are always growing our skills. This is where your peers are a great resource! I have learned SO MUCH from just observing and asking questions of those I work with. Then, there is in-salon education that can be provided from a co-worker or a product line. Don’t forget about educators and brands who travel to your area and teach classes open to all stylists. Of course, if you really wanna knock your education socks off, head to one of the major trade shows like Cosmoprof North America or ABS! You can find a class on anything you want and more, just use your resources!

Drew Noreen styling Associate Managing Editor Gabby Bach's hair with the Nicky Clarke InfraRed PRO Titanium Straightener at America's Beauty Show 2024.Courtesy of Drew Noreen4. Innovation

A big motivator for me personally, is innovation. Tools, products, technology... it’s always changing and evolving. This, I think, is one of the coolest parts about our industry and being behind the chair. I love trying new gadgets that might make my job easier or my client’s hair healthier. Client’s love to see new things too! This makes it exciting for them to come in because we are their connection to all things beauty. They really do look to us to provide them with information on the latest and greatest. I recently got a new blowdryer and flat iron that I was raving about and my client’s couldn’t get enough of. Now like 20 of them are all using the same tools and couldn’t be happier!

5. “The Beyond” 

I call this “The Beyond” because this is the part where you move, literally, beyond the chair. This industry offers SO MANY avenues for career growth, and it starts behind the chair. Use your connections, talk to your salon owner, peers and product reps about opportunities outside of the salon. You can work with top stylists at hair shows and NYFW. You could be an educator or rep for your favorite brand. Get involved with local fashion designers and model agencies to do hair and makeup for photo shoots. Contribute to articles for beauty magazines and websites. Enter into award shows like NAHA. The list is endless of what you can accomplish in the beauty industry if you just look “beyond."