R. Leigh Beauty & Media

01/26/2026

Mindset Mondays

What makes you feel most confident behind the chair?

Is it strong consultations?
Clean, organized sections?
A flawless finish you’re proud of?

For new stylists especially, confidence isn’t about knowing everything, it’s about mastering a few fundamentals that ground you behind the chair.

What’s the one thing that helps you feel steady and capable when a client sits down?

01/22/2026

One of the biggest gaps in cosmetology education isn’t talent.

It’s judgment and decision-making.

I’m rethinking how hair is taught in school, especially when it comes to textured hair.

Here’s why…

For over two decades, I’ve worked behind the chair, educated clients, collaborated with brands, and watched generations of stylists come out of cosmetology school with the same question in their eyes:

01/19/2026

Speed vs. Precision

Which are you focusing on right now, speed or precision?

Both matter, but not at the same time.

When doing highlights for the first time with bleach I quickly learned how important timing was.

However, compromising accuracy for speed is never the way to go, and will lead to disappointed clients, lost pay with redos, and a tarnished reputation.

1. In your down time in the drill yourself with your mannequin and use a timer for a more predictable time window.

2. Set up your station/work with everything you need before your client arrives, not wasting your time running around gathering supplies.

3. Focus on your accuracy, method and repitition. Speed will come.

Follow me to stay connected.

01/17/2026

Today is Vidal Sassoon’s birthday, the Father of the Modern Haircut.

When I was 5 years into my career behind the chair I saved up and invested $1500 😳 into taking Vidal Sassoon’s ABC Cutting class. It was a 5 day class that changed my life.

I saw cutting hair from a new perspective and it elevated my skills and confidence as a stylist.

Thank you Mr. Sassoon for your contributions.

P. S. If you are a stylist, watch Vidal Sassoon The Movie it’s a documentary about his life and start as a hairstylist.

01/16/2026

Behind-the-Chair Lesson 💭

What’s one thing the salon taught you that beauty school didn’t?

Could be about clients, timing, confidence, or technique, drop it below 👇🏽
Your experience might help someone else in this group.

I share real-life behind-the-chair lessons and guidance for newer stylists, stay tuned for more!

Follow along if you want continued support 🤍

I’m a hairstylist with 20+ years in the beauty industry, and a Brand Manager for a leading textured hair brand. Here I break down hair care in a simple, honest way. So stop guessing and start seeing results.

01/13/2026

Allow me to re-introduce myself.

I’m Robbie Hardges, a beauty industry professional with 20+ years of experience spanning behind the chair, brand management, product development, experiential marketing and education. My career has always lived at the intersection of culture, community, and innovation, with a deep focus on serving Black women and multicultural consumers.

I’ve worn many hats: stylist, educator, brand builder, and connector. Whether I’m developing products, shaping brand stories, or mentoring emerging beauty professionals, my goal is always the same, to create solutions that actually work in real life, not just on a mood board.

Right now, I’m especially passionate about:
• Bridging the gap between salons and at-home care
• Helping new and early-career stylists build skill and confidence
• Building community-driven brands that respect the culture they serve

If you’re in beauty, brand, education, or just love thoughtful conversations around where our industry is headed.

I’d love to connect.

Let’s build something meaningful ✨

01/12/2026

Protein Treatments for Natural Hair: Do You Really Need One?

Breakage, weak strands, or hair that won’t hold a style can often point to a protein imbalance.

As a professional hairstylist with over 20 years of hands-on experience, I see this most often in high-porosity natural hair and hair that’s been heat styled, colored, or worn in protective styles.

What protein treatments do:
They strengthen the hair by filling in weak areas along the cuticle, improving tensile strength and reducing breakage.

How often to use one:
No more than once a month. Too much protein can make hair dry and brittle.

Signs your hair needs protein:
• Feels mushy when wet
• Snaps easily during detangling
• Feels weak even when moisturized

Protein vs. keratin treatments:
Keratin is a protein, but keratin treatments are intense, in-salon services designed to smooth the hair. At-home protein treatments focus on repair and reinforcement, not altering curl pattern.

Choosing the right protein treatment:
• Look for plant-based proteins for regular use
• Always read directions
• Make sure protein deficiency is actually the issue; misdiagnosis causes damage fast.

The bottom line:
There’s no “best” protein treatment, only what your hair needs right now. Consistency and balance matter, and when in doubt, a professional consultation can save your hair.

Save this post if you’re focused on healthier natural hair.

01/10/2026

You’re Not Behind…

If you feel like everyone else is “better” or “ahead,” this is your reminder that skill takes reps, not perfection.

Drop a 💛 if you’re committed to improving your craft this year.

What skills do you want to hone?

01/09/2026

Hey beauty professionals ✨
Whether you’re in school, freshly licensed, assisting, or already behind the chair—drop a quick check-in below.

Tell us:
• Where you’re located
• Your license status (student, new grad, stylist, barber, etc.)
• One thing you want to get better at right now

This community is about growth, support, and sharpening real skills. Let’s get to know who’s in the room 🤍

👇🏽 Check in below!

10/24/2024

Attention all:

I need some help! FAME Center - Forston Arts and Music Education in the culturally rich South Loop area of Chicago.

I have gotten to know Sheila Fortson over the last few years as a client. I am consistently inspired by her drive to see her vision to fruition. Her dedication to education and the arts is unmatched.

Sheila has stepped out in faith to purchase the whole building of where she is currently leasing her space. This would be huge stride for the arts community, the city, and our youth!

She needs an to reach her monetary goal by October 30th.

Watch the video below, then donate. If you can’t donate, please share and get this to as many feeds as possible.

Take a tour of the future home of The South Loop Center for the Arts located at 1319 - 1347 South State Street, Chicago, IL 60605.