Meet Samer Hamayel | Hair color & extensions specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Samer Hamayel and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samer, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success as a hair color and extensions specialist is the quality and integrity of my work. In both color and extensions, there is no room for shortcuts. Precision, customization, and attention to detail are everything.

It all starts with a thorough consultation. When working with color and extensions, you must truly understand the guest’s vision, lifestyle, maintenance commitment, and hair history. If you can pinpoint exactly what they want — and educate them on what’s realistic and healthy for their hair — you’ve already succeeded halfway.

The second half is customer experience. This industry is built on trust. My guests trust me with their hair, their confidence, and their image. Creating a space where they feel heard, respected, and cared for is just as important as the technical result.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I moved to the United States in 2001 at 18 years old. English was my second language, and I came from a culture where success meant becoming a doctor or a lawyer — anything but a hairstylist. In my community, men in hairdressing were often judged and labeled. My family was not supportive of my decision, and there were moments when I questioned myself.

I enrolled in college because it was expected, but I felt disconnected. I gave myself two years to figure out my path. Deep down, I always had an instinct for hair — for design, for transformation. My sister-in-law encouraged me to apply to Casal Aveda Institute, and that decision changed my life.

I chose an Aveda school intentionally. Their eco-conscious mission, cruelty-free values, and commitment to not testing on animals aligned with who I am. I wanted to build a career with purpose — not just beauty, but responsibility. As a colorist, product quality matters deeply to me. Aveda’s plant-based formulas are gentle on the hair and scalp while still delivering elevated, professional results. I needed something that felt luxurious, effective, and environmentally responsible for my guests. I fell in love not only with the products, but with the discipline, education, and philosophy behind the brand.

I started as an assistant at Aveda Casals Day Spa and Salon, and I’ll be honest — I struggled at first. Some people didn’t think I would succeed. Some told me I wasn’t good enough. But I worked harder. Being an immigrant taught me resilience. When English is your second language, you learn to listen more carefully. When you feel like you have something to prove, you outwork doubt.

With the mentorship of Tracy Brook, I grew into a stylist who stands firmly behind his work. I discovered my love for color — the science and art of it. The way tone and depth can transform not just hair, but confidence.

In 2014, I took another leap and moved to Los Angeles. Starting over again wasn’t easy, but growth never comes from comfort. There, I met Erin Blume, who expanded my craft by introducing me to extensions and pushing me beyond what I thought I was capable of. I trained in K-tip, I-tip, wefts, and tape-ins, mastering the balance between seamless extensions and precision color.

As my career evolved, I received two awards and eventually stepped into education myself, becoming an Aveda Professional West Coast Region Educator. That milestone meant more to me than recognition — it meant I had grown enough to give back. I was also fortunate to work on several Aveda global photoshoots, along with other professional campaigns, experiences that elevated my artistry and allowed me to contribute to creative work on a larger stage.

This industry has shown me both beauty and ego, inspiration and competition. I’ve experienced doubt, criticism, and moments of insecurity. But I’ve also experienced transformation — not just in hair, but in myself.

The most powerful moment for me is still the same: when a guest looks in the mirror and smiles from ear to ear. That moment — when someone feels seen, confident, and elevated — that is my art.

My journey has taught me humility. No matter how talented or recognized you become, you must remain a student. You must support the next generation. I promised myself I would never let ego replace authenticity.

Today, my brand stands for intentional quality, thorough consultation, sustainability, and transformation. I don’t just create hair — I design confidence.

I currently work at Rua Hair and Spa Salon, where I continue to specialize in customized color and extension services. I warmly welcome new clients who value quality, care, and a personalized experience.

And I am just getting started.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One of my favorite brunch places is The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker. It’s right on Sunset Plaza and it’s such an amazing spot for brunch or lunch — beautiful energy, great food, and always a vibe.

For dinner, I’m a huge fan of Cecconi’s West Hollywood. The atmosphere is elegant but relaxed, the vibe is always right, and the food is consistently incredible.

I’d also tell my friend we have to go roller skating at Moonlight Rollerway for disco night — skate, dance, and just enjoy the music all night. It’s such a fun, nostalgic experience.

Hiking is something I love to do too, especially at Garden of the Gods. It’s famous for its distinctive sandstone rock formations and its history as part of the Iverson Movie Ranch, widely considered one of the most photographed outdoor filming locations in movie and TV history. The views and the energy there are unmatched.

If we’re up for a little drive, Lotusland in Santa Barbara is always a beautiful place to take a friend. The garden design, the rare plants, the creativity in the landscaping — it’s peaceful and inspiring.

And of course, a trip to Venice Beach is always a must. The beach, the boardwalk, the mix of artists and energy — it’s classic California.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I feel incredibly blessed to have had amazing people who inspired me and helped shape the path that brought me to where I am today.

When I first started in the hair industry, I was an assistant at Aveda Casals DE Spa and Salon, where I had the privilege of assisting Tracy Brook. I may have started a little rough, but her patience, care, and belief in me truly groomed me into the stylist I am today — someone who stands behind their work with confidence and integrity. She taught me professionalism, the value of education, and the importance of kindness in this industry.

I’m also deeply grateful for Erin Blume, who has continuously inspired me and pushed me outside of my comfort zone. Erin encouraged me to step into leadership and become an Aveda Professional West Coast Region Educator — a milestone in my career that I’m incredibly proud of. Her support and belief in my potential helped me see possibilities for myself that I may not have seen alone.

I am always thankful for these two remarkable women who helped shape my craft, my mindset, and the professional I’ve become. Their mentorship reminds me that success is never built alone — it’s nurtured through guidance, encouragement, and those who truly believe in you.

Instagram: @chicbysamer

Facebook: Samer Hamayel

Other: TikTok samrahamayelhair

Image Credits
Erin Blume