Meet Tony Tovar | Hair Colorist

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

Hi Tony, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I personally believe you’ve got to risk it to get the biscuit! When I was in cosmetology school, my partner, Abraham introduced me to celebrity vocal coach Stevie Mackey. Stevie loved my platinum blonde hair at the time and asked me to color his hair. I was only about two months into school, so I didn’t feel very confident. Despite the doubts in my head, I said yes, knowing the opportunity was there for a reason. That one decision opened so many doors for me, and I’ve been doing Stevie’s hair for five years now. It taught me that sometimes, saying yes to the unknown can lead to opportunities beyond what you can imagine. That opportunity ultimately led to me earning a spot at one of Los Angeles’ most esteemed salons, Roil Salon.

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 think what I’m most proud of is my ability to create results that feel both natural and enduring. I take the time to study my clients—their skin tones, facial features, hair textures, and lifestyles—so I can enhance their unique beauty with hair that aligns with their personal maintenance preferences. It’s about making them feel like the best version of themselves, effortlessly.

It was not an easy journey. While I definitely think I had some natural talent, this job requires skill. Skill is only developed with practice. That’s why so many salons require people to assist before they start doing their own clients. That is especially true for salons on the west side. Earning a spot at an exclusive salon in Los Angeles is no small feat. You can’t simply walk in and rent a booth straight out of cosmetology school. It takes time—starting at the bottom, honing your craft, doing countless free/discounted services to practice, and ultimately proving that you’re ready to work at the same level as those around you. I’m incredibly grateful that Amanda George gave me the opportunity to grow at Roil Salon. It’s one of Beverly Hills’ OG salons, and sometimes, I still can’t believe my business gets to call it home. It’s a very beautiful space.

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?
Oh, I love this question! If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to show them all the layers of LA—the mix of glamour, creativity, and laid-back vibes that make the city so special. Here’s how I’d plan the perfect week.

Day 1: Welcome to LA!
We’d start with brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker in West Hollywood for the best avocado toast and fresh juices. Afterward, we’d wander around The Grove and The Farmers Market—so classic LA, with great shopping, people-watching, and a bit of nostalgia. In the afternoon, we’d head to Santa Monica Pier, take in the ocean breeze, ride the Ferris wheel, and grab dinner at The Lobster for some amazing seafood and sunset views.

Day 2: Exploring the Artsy Side of LA
We’d start the day with breakfast at Gjusta in Venice (their pastries are insane). Afterward, we’d hit up The Getty Museum—the architecture and views alone are worth the trip. For lunch, I’d take them to Grand Central Market in Downtown LA, where we can sample some of the best tacos, ramen, and even delicious vegan options. We’d spend the afternoon in Arts District, checking out murals and cool galleries. In the evening, I’d grab drinks at Bestia, one of LA’s most iconic spots for craft cocktails and Italian food, and finish the night with late-night snacks at Pizzana.

Day 3: Laid-back Vibes
We’d start with a chilled morning at Malibu Farm for breakfast on the pier with ocean views. After that, it’s all about soaking in the sunshine at Zuma Beach or exploring the stunning coastal trails in Point Dume State Park. Lunch would be at Nobu Malibu (because when in Malibu, right?). We’d end the day with a relaxing dinner at The Tasting Kitchen in Venice—farm-to-table, innovative dishes, and a cozy ambiance.

Day 4: Adventure and Views
We’d wake up early to hike Runyon Canyon for a panoramic view of the city—nothing beats that iconic LA skyline with the Hollywood sign in the distance. After the hike, we’d brunch at République, a spot with fantastic pastries and a European bistro vibe. In the afternoon, I’d take them on a tour of The Getty Villa in Malibu for some cultural history and stunning art. For dinner, we’d hit The Bazaar by José Andrés in Beverly Hills for a fun, over-the-top dining experience.

Day 5: Hidden Gems
We’d start the day with a unique breakfast at Sqirl in Silver Lake, which has some of the best rice bowls and jams around. Then we’d explore the cool shops, cafes, and vintage stores around Echo Park and Silver Lake. After a few hours of wandering, we’d grab lunch at Pizzana (again—it’s that good). In the evening, I’d take them to El Matador Beach for a breathtaking sunset and then enjoy dinner and cocktails at The Sunset Tower Hotel’s rooftop bar, where we’d catch up on life with the LA skyline in the background.

Day 6: The Luxe Experience
For something a little more indulgent, we’d have breakfast at The Beverly Hills Hotel, a perfect spot to soak in old Hollywood vibes. Then, we’d spend the day shopping in Rodeo Drive, browsing luxury boutiques, and people-watching. Afterward, we’d head to Griffith Observatory for sweeping views of the city and the Hollywood sign. Dinner would be at Spago Beverly Hills, where we could enjoy Wolfgang Puck’s famous cuisine. We’d finish the night at The Nice Guy for some cocktails and a taste of LA nightlife.

Day 7: Relax and Reflect
We’d take it easy on the final day, starting with a laid-back breakfast at The Cottage in Santa Monica, followed by a stroll through Venice Beach, soaking in the art, the skatepark, and the eclectic energy. We’d then head to LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) to check out some exhibitions before grabbing lunch at Crossroads Kitchen, a trendy vegan spot. To wrap it up, we’d unwind with a sunset dinner at Catch LA, an upscale spot with amazing seafood and views, before calling it a week of unforgettable memories.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people I’d love to dedicate this to. First, my partner, Abraham who has always believed in me and pushed me to say yes to every opportunity, no matter how scary. Anival Morales, who introduced me to both salons where I was mentored. Sonia Flores and Kristen Good, who were my direct mentors during my time as an assistant. Amanda George, the owner of Roil Salon, who welcomed and encouraged my growth as a hair artist. Most importantly, everyone who has ever trusted me with their hair. That trust is the foundation of everything I do, and it’s something I hold with the utmost respect and gratitude.

Instagram: tonytovar___

Other: email: tonytovar.hair@gmail.com

Image Credits
Forest Cornwell (IG: @sickogbeingfamous)
Brianna Salas