Russell Mayes
Russell has definitely earned his OG Hair Nerd status from being there for us since the beginning. He has always been willing to help a Hair Nerd in need and is armed and ready with his camera for any behind the scenes shenanigans we have in our back pocket. Russell is at the top of our list of favorite educators and if you don’t know Russell… you should
Tell us about the moment you knew that one day you would be a hair stylist?
I was sitting in my fathers salon, as I usually did after class, when I was in high school. I would watch him and the other stylists work and try to figure out what they were doing. Then one day, I met this punk rock girl and, trying to be smooth, I thought I’d woo her buy telling her I wanted to cut her hair. So, in the salon we went and after attempting the most difficult thing I’ve ever done (actually cut hair) I was hooked. The challenge is what got me first but also the freedom to be my own person and dress how I wanted and work as much as I wanted. My success was directly dependent on what I did not limited to someone telling me how much I’d make hourly.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Unemployed and living in my mothers basement :). Actually, I see myself being more balanced in my work life and personal life. I’ve spent so much time immersed in the craft of hair that I’ve forgotten to take care of my personal life. So I’m working on finding that balance. In 5 years I should have it. Hopefully! Hard when I love what I do.
What’s one thing you would have told yourself on the first day of cosmetology school knowing what you know now?
Lighten up and give yourself time to totally suck in the beginning. Hair requires experience, practice and repetition to be good at it so in the beginning I’d see hair that inspired me and when I attempted to do them I was always disappointed with the results and would beat myself up. That disappointment is part of the journey and everyone has to walk it so embrace the suck.
Something most people don’t know about you.
I have dreams where I see the future. Happened twice. Yes, I’m serious.
If you could only use one product for the rest of your life, what would it be for you? For Clients?
Shuga Leave In aerosol conditioner. It’s brilliant especially on dry hair after you’ve e round brushed it. I never do hair without it.
Where do you go to clear your mind?
Japan. I just got back and it was a life changing experience. That will forever be my go to when I need to get away. Another place is Brazilian Jiu Jitsu class. Sounds funny but when you spar someone your mind is free from all distractions and everything. It’s like moving meditation.
Educating stylists can be challenging. How do you feel educating the Hair Nerds of the world has rewarded you the most?
When you share what you do with someone else it makes you better as a stylist. It forces you to think deeper into the technique and understand it thoroughly. And that’s reward enough to make me want to share.
I knew I was a Hair Nerd when…
I realized every vacation always centered around a hair show.
Want to Nerd Stalk Russell?
@RussellMayes