HJ's British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, has revealed the nominees for Session Hairdresser of the Year 2026. This category celebrates stylists working outside traditional salon settings.
The nominated stylists are Duffy, Peter Burkill, Syd Hayes, Nick Irwin, Tyler Johnston, Guido Palau, Eugene Souleiman, and Anthony Turner. These individuals were selected by industry experts, including members of the British Hairdressing Awards Hall of Fame.
Nominees must now submit a portfolio of eight images from the past year. This collection will showcase the breadth of their creative and technical abilities, reflecting their work beyond the salon floor. The deadline for nomination-only categories is 5pm on Friday, September 11, 2026.
For those looking to enter other categories, the closing date for regional and specialist entries is 5pm on Friday, June 26, 2026. The awards ceremony will take place on Monday, November 23, 2026, at London's JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel.
The announcement highlights a specific niche within the hairdressing industry. While many salon owners focus on client-facing services, this award acknowledges the distinct skill set required for session work. It raises the question of how this high-level, often unseen, creative output influences broader salon trends and technical development.
