Salon International 2024, with headline sponsor Treatwell, which takes place from 12 -14 October 2024 at ExCeL London, is thrilled to announce an exceptional line-up of competitions designed to challenge, inspire and showcase the brightest talent in the hairdressing industry. From rising stars in barbering to seasoned professionals in extension artistry, this year’s event promises a spectacular display of creativity and skill, with exciting prizes and career-defining opportunities for winners. Here’s a glimpse of what’s in store:

This prestigious competition offers hair professionals the chance to demonstrate their technical prowess and creative flair in the application of hair extensions. With categories for both Commercial and Creative looks, entrants will need to submit three images (before, during, and after the extension process) to enter. After a rigorous anonymous judging process, finalists will be invited to the live awards ceremony on the HJ Stage at Salon International.  The grand prize? A two-person trip to Rome to tour the Great Lengths production facility, complete with two nights' accommodation, a celebratory dinner, and more! Plus, a £200 cash prize awaits, giving the winners extra spending flexibility. The winners will be announced on the HJ Stage at 17:15 on Sunday, 13 October.

The future of barbering is in the spotlight with the Raw Talent Barbering Competition, dedicated to nurturing students and apprentices. In collaboration with Mike Taylor Education, this competition offers aspiring barbers a platform to showcase their abilities and make a name for themselves within the industry. The initial round involves photographic entries, but the finalists will battle it out live at Salon International. With three categories to enter - Student, Graduate and Postgraduate - the competition is open to those currently pursuing, or recently graduated from, formally accredited Level 2 or 3 qualifications. The winners not only receive the title of Raw Talent Barbering Winner 2024, but also a trophy, a product bundle from top brands like Andis, Denman and American Crew together with an exclusive feature in Modern Barber Magazine. The winners of the Graduate and Postgraduate categories will be announced at 17:30 on Sunday 13, October on the HJ Academy Stage, while the Student category winner will be revealed at 16:30 on Monday, 14 October on the HJ Academy Stage.

The winners of the Concept Hair Learner of the Year competitions will battle it out for the Best of the Best title on Monday, 14th October at Salon International. Recreating a runway look using the expertise demonstrated in their specialist category, students will compete live at Salon International before the winner is announced at 3pm on the HJ Stage.

SNAP! is back and better than ever, offering a unique opportunity for hairdressers of all skill levels to compete on a global stage by submitting just one unedited image of their work. Whether you specialise in barbering, bridal styles, vibrant colour work, or avant-garde creations, there’s a category for everyone. The competition’s six categories - Barbering, Bridal, Colour, Commercial, Creative and Texture - each celebrate a distinct aspect of hair artistry.  The top 10 images in each category will be displayed at Salon International, with winners announced live on Monday, 14 October. Trophies, a feature in Hairdressers Journal International, the chance to work on the HJ Academy Stage at Salon International 2025 and a ticket to the British Hairdressing Awards 2024 sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional are all up for grabs!

For those under 30 who have yet to enter the British Hairdressing Awards, sponsored by Schwarzkopf Professional, the #BHABursary offers a career-changing opportunity. In partnership with Schwarzkopf Professional, this initiative supports emerging talent by giving them the chance to enter a Regional or Newcomer category at the 2025 Awards. The winning entry will receive a professional photoshoot and two tickets to this year’s Awards, the most glamorous night in British hairdressing.  To enter, simply submit a video of yourself in front of the bursary wall at Salon International, along with a picture of your best work. This could be the start of something truly extraordinary!

Salon International 2024 is the ultimate event for anyone passionate about the future of hairdressing. Book your ticket now for an unforgettable weekend of inspiration, education and electrifying competitions.

Be the first to access exclusive updates by registering for Salon International today:  Salon International 2024 and stay tuned to @Salon_Int and @HairdressersJournal on social media for the latest news.