The British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, have introduced a new Wales Hairdresser of the Year category, marking a significant moment for the Welsh hair industry.
Previously part of the Wales and South West category, Welsh stylists will now have a dedicated platform to showcase their work and compete against other hairdressers from across the country. The category will cover entrants from Anglesey, Cardiganshire, Carmarthenshire, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Monmouthshire, Pembrokeshire and Powys, celebrating the creativity from salons throughout Wales.
The addition forms part of a wider set of updates to the awards and reflects the continued growth and influence of Welsh hairdressers within the UK industry.
Welsh Hairdressers Welcome the New Category
For many in the Welsh hairdressing community, the new category represents long-awaited recognition for the region. Michelle Summers Davies of Michelle Davies Hair and Wales and South West Hairdresser of the Year finalist 2025, 2024 and 2023 welcomed the announcement. “My initial reaction to the news that there is a new Wales Hairdresser of the Year category was that it’s absolutely brilliant! Wales may be a small country, but the standard of hairdressing here is incredibly high. Creating a dedicated category recognises the strength of the Welsh industry and gives artists the platform they deserve to showcase their work on their own stage. It’s extremely important that this category has been introduced. Welsh hairdressers are producing world-class work, but we’re often competing within much bigger regions. Having a Wales category shines a light on the talent, creativity and individuality coming out of our country. It gives Welsh artists something to really aim for and celebrates the identity of our industry here.”
Ken Picton, South West and Wales Hairdresser of the Year 2023, has shared: "I think the move to a standalone Wales Hairdresser of the Year category in the British Hairdressing Awards is a fantastic move. It gives a much clearer identity for people who actually work within Wales. I’m so pleased that Wales gets its own clear identity as a region – along with Northern Ireland and Scotland or London, for instance. I think you'll see a lot more people enter now that are based in Wales. I’m excited!"
And for the industry as a whole, that can only be a good thing."
How to Enter the British Hairdressing Awards 2026
To be in with the chance of becoming a winner of your region or specialist category at the British Hairdressing Awards, simply click to enter and select the category you wish to submit to. Follow the instructions provided and make sure to read the rules and regulations for your chosen category carefully. Entries must be submitted before the closing date of 26 June 2026.
Why Enter the British Hairdressing Awards?
The British Hairdressing Awards are widely regarded as one of the most prestigious competitions in the industry. Beyond the accolades, they offer a platform to elevate your profile across the UK, boost your salon’s reputation, attract new clients and celebrate creativity with industry peers. For many entrants, the experience is about more than winning. Taking part provides an opportunity to push creative boundaries, showcase technical skill and contribute to the future of the industry. The awards continue to inspire the next generation of hair professionals while celebrating the artistry and innovation that define British hairdressing.
