The moment you’ve all been waiting for has arrived – entries for the British Hairdressing Awards 2026, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, are now open – and we’ve made some changes to the rules and regulations.
The British Hairdressing Awards are recognised globally as the ultimate accolade in hairdressing. Since their launch over 40 years ago, the awards recognise the most credible names in the hairdressing industry as finalists, nominees, and winners.
Whether you’re a seasoned salon owner, avant garde visionary, colour wizard, or a rising star, this is your chance to showcase your work on a national stage and join the ranks of the hairdressing industry’s most respected names.
Looking for inspiration? Check out last year's finalists collections
Key Dates to Remember
When: The British Hairdressing Awards 2026 will be held on Monday 23 November 2026
Where: JW Grosvenor House Hotel, London
Entry Deadline: Entries close 26 June 2026
What’s New for 2026 – Key Changes to Rules and Regulations
This year, we’ve made some changes to the entry rules and regulations…
The Number of Images to Submit
The number of images you submit for the first round is 4 images. If you are announced as a finalist, you will be required to submit a further 2 images in the second round. The total number of images to be submitted per entry is 6 images for all regional categories and specialist categories, apart from the following categories:
- Trend Image of the Year – 1 image
- Schwarzkopf Professional British Colour Technician of the Year – 8 images
- Session Hairdresser of the Year – 8 images
- British Hairdresser of the Year – 8 images
Afro Hairdresser of the Year
You must demonstrate how you offer and practice Afro/Textured hair services in a commercial environment. You must now supply one of the following:
- A copy (image or screenshot) of your service menu/offering displaying Afro/Textured hair services
- Your Instagram page displaying clients with Afro/Textured hair
- Three reviews or testimonials from clients with Afro/Textured hair within the last 12 months of the entry deadline
Wales & South West Hairdresser of the Year
The Wales & South West Hairdresser of the Year category has now been separated into two categories:
South Western Hairdresser of the Year – City of Bristol, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset, Wiltshire
Wales Hairdresser of the Year – Anglesey, Cardiganshire, Carmarthenshire, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Monmouthshire, Pembrokeshire, Powys
Trend Image of the Year
Images entered into Trend Image of the Year cannot be entered into any other category and you can only submit one entry into Trend Image of the Year.
How to Enter the British Hairdressing Awards 2026
To be in with the chance of becoming a winner of your region or specialist category, simply click here, and select the category you wish to enter. Follow the instructions on how to enter and ensure to read the rules and regulations of the category you’re entering. Be sure to get your entries submitted before the closing date of 26 June 2026 for your chance to win.
Why Enter the British Hairdressing Awards 2026?
The British Hairdressing Awards are more than just accolades. They’re a platform to elevate your profile across the UK, boost your salon’s reputation, attract more clients, celebrate creativity with industry peers, and inspire the next generation of hair professionals. Entering gives you the opportunity to showcase your talent. For many, it’s not about winning – it’s about pushing yourself creatively and building your reputation. The British Hairdressing Awards provide a platform to shine and leave a lasting legacy in the world of hairdressing.
What Categories Are There?
Regional Categories
- Eastern Hairdresser of the Year
- International Collection of the Year
- London Hairdresser of the Year
- Midlands Hairdresser of the Year
- North Eastern Hairdresser of the Year
- Northern Ireland Hairdresser of the Year
- North Western Hairdresser of the Year
- Scottish Hairdresser of the Year
- Southern Hairdresser of the Year
- South Western Hairdresser of the Year
- Wales Hairdresser of the Year
Specialist Categories
- Afro Hairdresser of the Year
- Artistic Team of the Year
- Avant Garde Hairdresser of the Year
- Men’s Hairdresser of the Year
- Newcomer of the Year
- Schwarzkopf Professional British Colour Technician of the Year
- Trend Image of the Year
What are you waiting for? Enter now!
