Knowing how to execute a technique is one thing.
Understanding why it works and how to adapt it to the person in your chair.
Is what turns a hairstylist into an artist.
On the latest episode of Volume Up by The Tease, award-winning stylist, educator, and salon owner Brandon Bal-Lance discusses the gaps between beauty school and salon life. He also shares how stronger education, mentorship, and authenticity can help the next generation build lasting careers.
Beauty School Is Only the Beginning
Bal-Lance’s own beauty school experience left him feeling boxed in. As someone with ADHD and Asperger’s, he struggled with an education system that did not reflect how he learned.
He was also told he was,
“too overweight,”
“too gay,” and
“too feminine,” to succeed.
Now, education is a huge part of his career. Bal-Lance believes many new professionals enter salons without enough hands-on practice or experience working across different hair textures. The emotional side of the job is often overlooked, too. Leaving new stylists unprepared to set boundaries while supporting clients through difficult moments.
Building Stronger Foundations
At Bal-Lance Salon & Academy, his junior artist program helps bridge those gaps.
The three-to-six-month program begins with foundational skills like shampooing, blow-drying, and texture. Then it moves into precision cutting, color, and lightening. Bal-Lance wants artists to ask why hair moves, reacts, and processes the way it does so they can confidently adjust when a service doesn’t go according to plan.
Support Over Perfection
Bal-Lance also encourages emerging artists to let go of perfection, especially online. One viral post will not build a sustainable career. Showing up authentically and continuing to learn can.
His larger message is that success requires more than technical talent. It takes curiosity, honest feedback, and at least one person willing to say, “Baby, you got it.”
Hear more from Brandon Bal-Lance about beauty education, mentorship, and building a salon career on Volume Up by The Tease, available wherever you pod. Follow @readthetease and @volumeupbythetease for more industry conversations.
