We are spotlighting the winners of Beauty Launchpad’s 25 Under 50K contest, sponsored by Platinum Seamless.
Get to know Alyssia Dotson (@maneseamstress). She is a hairstylist, global educator and owner of Shear Peace Hair Salon in Plano, TX.
Q&A:
Beauty Launchpad (BLP): What is a fun fact about you?
Alyssia Dotson (AD): I’m an extroverted introvert, and coffee can make me fall asleep faster than melatonin!
BLP: How did you get your start in the industry?
AD: Hair truly found me, rather than the other way around. Coming from a family deeply rooted in nursing and medical professions, I was initially on a path toward psychology. However, in high school, I chose cosmetology as an elective, thinking it would be a useful skill to have during college. This decision ignited a creative spark in me that I couldn't ignore. I joined an apprenticeship with Toni & Guy, and my path was set. I decided to also become an educator because I wanted to fill a gap and represent hairstylists who view hair as a versatile fabric, transcending racial boundaries and fostering creativity. This perspective has been the driving force in my journey as a stylist. Now, more than 20 years later, I continue to evolve and grow in this ever-changing field!
BLP: What is your proudest accomplishment?
AD: Oh gosh, I would have to say this moment right now is pretty surreal!
BLP: What is your current favorite hair trend?
AD: A nice textured bob! But honestly, I’m loving that hair is so much more nuanced and there is movement happening within a shape. Whether it’s a bob or a shag, hair isn’t just an added piece to an outfit. It’s driving the look and sets the whole vibe. It’s giving individuality, and I’m so here for it!
BLP: What is a tip you have for your fellow stylists who are looking to grow their following on socials? 
AD: Share and add value by being your amazing self! Remember that it's not all about likes and followers. I often have to remind myself of this, too. Instead, focus on building genuine connections and enhancing your business through your social media. Follower count should never matter – it's who’s following you that should matter. By concentrating on what you want to attract — whether it's a particular clientele, brand collabs or showcasing your unique style — the rest will start to fall into place naturally. The followers will come to you, love!
BLP: What advice would you give to the younger version of yourself just starting out in the industry, looking back on your whole career?
AD: Don’t try to change yourself or be what you think people want to see because you rob the world of the gift of you. Be yourself, for yourself. Embrace your quirks, your flaws, your strengths and your passions. Authenticity is far more important than a polished image, and in this industry, being a relational person through and through is where true strength lies.
BLP: What is a valuable hair tip that you want to share with your fellow stylists (whether it’s a business tip or something related to styling/working with hair)?
AD: Whether on set or behind the chair, remember that we are a relationship based industry. It’s not just about fabulous hair, it’s about making the person that wears that fabulous hair feel like they’re fabulous as well. Whether it's a working mom of 3 or a model who is walking in her first show, making sure they look good and feel empowered to love and care for their hair is just part of being a stylist.
BLP: What inspires your work?
AD: I know it may sound cliche, but I’m inspired by hair itself. I’ve found that educating myself in all hair types, textures and even cultures have been the best tool when working in this industry.
BLP: What is something that keeps you passionate and motivated in the industry each day?
AD: Its ever-changing nature – not just in techniques but in its evolving mindset. I'm inspired by the shift towards community over competition, which brings us back to why we love this industry. The energy within this community is like a heartbeat, driving creativity and inspiration. Being surrounded by passionate individuals keeps me motivated and constantly inspired.
BLP: What changes would you like to see the industry make in order to grow/change/evolve/be better than it was before?
AD: Continue to empower and uplift by having conversations and creating safe spaces for all stylists to grow, evolve and be empowered to create beautiful hair on ANYONE that sits in their chair. It’s about seeing hair through the lens of it being a fabric, which is how I educate. Looking at hair through this lens creates relatability and community. It also is the gateway to understanding cultures. The same way that we enjoy different foods and appreciate the culture through them should be the same way we take in hair – not through the lens of race but through seeing and caring for hair like fabric. It’s a game changer!
BLP: What is a career goal you have for yourself?
AD: To keep growing and making a real difference in the beauty industry and beyond. After so many years in this field, I want to inspire stylists and clients everywhere, building a community that’s passionate about what we do. My work goes beyond just styling hair — I want to share my experiences and knowledge to show how our craft can truly transform lives. By staying connected and grounded, I aim to create a lasting impact that encourages creativity and empowers others.
