BEST IN CLASS!

The Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2024 crowned winners in 14 categories, as the industry came together for a night of celebrating success

The Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2024 took place at the InterContinental Dublin on 10 November, with the event honouring the talent within the industry in Ireland.

Winners were crowned in 14 categories, as more than 350 professionals come together for a glittering ceremony to celebrate the best in the business.

Now in their third year, the Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards are different from other awards in Ireland because they are judged by the industry, for the industry. The winners are chosen by a panel of judges, who are selected for their expertise, therefore the competition is judged fairly and independently.

“We had some of the best in beauty, hair, spa and aesthetics in the room, and it was so good to celebrate with people who care about their profession,” said Mark Moloney, managing director of the Professional Beauty Group. “It was truly an inspirational evening.”

The deserving winners of the Beauty, Hair & Spa Awards 2024 impressed the judges with their skills, creativity, dedication and client care. Over the following pages, we’ve profiled each one to find out what makes them so special.

Hair Salon of the Year

Winner: YGH

Founded in 2006 by Jenny Byrne, YGH has three branches in Duleek and Stamullen in Co Meath, and Drogheda, Co Louth. In 2022, the Drogheda salon relocated when Byrne purchased a derelict three-story building in the centre of the town. Originally a malt whisky grain store belonging to Jameson Irish whiskey, she oversaw the restoration of all the floors to highlight the history of the building and its unique features. The move led to a 60% increase in work stations, and further expansion of the team.

YGH prioritises customer satisfaction, with all staff going the extra mile to ensure that each client receives personalised attention, and leaves feeling confident and gorgeous. Stylists consistently aim to deliver high-quality services, tailored to meet the unique preferences and needs of each individual.

Ongoing staff training initiatives include regular workshops and seminars with industry experts; organising staff to participate in certification programmes to enhance their skills and gain recognised credentials; and on-the-job training, whereby new hires are paired with experienced staff members who provide guidance. Management also works with each team member to map out a clear career path, offering opportunities for advancement within the salon. Anyone interested in a management role can avail of leadership and business training.

“This award means the world to me. I’m so grateful to my team. This is why we do what we do, and it just proves that it’s worth going the extra mile.”

Hair Salon Team of the Year

Winner: Amica Eco Hairdressing

This is Amica Eco Hairdressing’s second time winning Hair Salon Team of the Year, having also taken home the trophy in 2023. The eco-friendly business is owned by Greg and Alison Clarke, who believe that their salon’s success is due to the dedication of all team members, as they consistently exceed goals set by management, embracing continuous education and the latest hairdressing techniques to stay at the forefront of the industry.

There are 13 team members, with over 60% being with the salon for more than a decade. Personal growth is encouraged, which helps to cultivate a team that is constantly evolving and pushing boundaries. Everyone plays a part in helping to foster a culture of support, both for each other and for clients, as they create a welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and encouraged.

The team actively engages with the local community, participating in charitable initiatives such as its annual Christmas Pyjama Day as part of its commitment to making a difference. It also provides hair services to ill clients who can't visit the salon, offering care and support during challenging times.

“To win this award for the second time is the best feeling in the world! We are all very proud to be recognised in our industry.”

Business Director of the Year

Winner: Ross Tracy, Facial Rejuve Clinic

Ross Tracy co-founded Facial Rejuve Clinic with his wife Dr Altona Myers, and has used his experience in brand development to bring a strategic vision to the business, which has two locations in Dublin and Killarney, Co Kerry.

As managing director, Tracy handles all operational aspects outside of clinical care, including finance, marketing and HR. With a focus on efficiency and excellence, he has streamlined operations and fuelled growth. His responsibilities include budgeting, monitoring financial performance, and implementing efficient processes to enhance clinic operations and client satisfaction.

He continually drives innovation by introducing new services and technologies. This involves researching and integrating advanced aesthetic treatments and equipment to ensure the clinic remains at the forefront of the industry. The introduction of new services has attracted a diverse and loyal clientele, and the company achieved a 90% year-on-year revenue increase in 2023.

Building a strong, collaborative team has been a priority for Tracy, who fosters a positive work environment that encourages professional growth and high standards of client care. He believes that this focus on team development has been key to Facial Rejuve’s success and reputation.

“This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of myself and my team. I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead in such an inspiring industry.”

Colour Technician of the Year

Winner: Danny Malone, MACC Hair Belfast

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Danny Malone’s winning Ethereal Elegance Collection features a seamless blend of artistic flair and technical mastery, showcasing looks that flow effortlessly, capturing the imagination with their dynamic energy. Drawing inspiration from the interplay of light and shadow, every look is designed to catch the eye and spark a sense of wonder.

“This recognition fills my heart with gratitude, and I want to extend my deepest thanks to everyone who has supported me on this incredible journey.”

Educator of the Year

Winner: Lorna Melay, Bronwyn Conroy Beauty School

With an award in education and training, Lorna Melay is also a qualified make-up artist, nail technician, beauty specialist, advanced aesthetician and reiki master. She is constantly upskilling with workshops and courses to maintain the highest standard of knowledge for her students.

Melay began her teaching career in 2020 during the Covid pandemic. Her goal from the start was to cater for students’ different learning styles and needs, as she believes that traditional teaching methods do not always suit everyone. She has adapted her methods and uses a variety of techniques such as visual aids, group discussions and hands-on activities to help her students understand both theory and practice.

She believes that education is not just about getting good grades, it’s about helping students develop a love of learning, which will stay with them for a lifetime. She is passionate about helping them to learn, grow and achieve things they never thought possible. As an educator, she strives to be a teacher, mentor, role model and support system for her students, and she values the opportunity to inspire, connect and make a positive impact on their lives.

“I am so grateful to win this award. It further motivates me to continue to grow in the industry and make a positive impact in the classroom”

Irish Hairdresser of the Year

Winner: Simon Houston, Houston Hair

Simon Houston’s winning Pink Paradox collection is a celebration of innovative style, capturing a fresh and cohesive vision that skillfully blends contradictions, pushing the boundaries of contemporary beauty.

“It is an honour to be recognised at this level among so many talented hairstylists. I am so grateful to my team, family, and friends for their support.”

Make-up Artist of the Year

Winner: Olena Huliaieva, Mavka

As a make-up artist for the past three years, Olena Huliaieva strives to create tailored, transformative and confidence-boosting looks for her clients. By prioritising open communication and truly understanding their desires, she aims to ensure that each make-up application reflects their individuality and preferences. Her dedication to continuous learning and staying updated with trends allows her to offer diverse and innovative techniques, so that her clients receive the most contemporary and personalised service.

Collaborating with photographers and models has been an essential part of Huliaieva’s career journey. She believes that working closely with photographers has helped her to contribute to creative and impactful visual storytelling, ensuring that make-up is harmoniously integrated into the overall aesthetic of a photo shoot. Through these collaborations, she has gained insights into the art of make-up application in different photographic settings, from editorial to commercial, enhancing her skills and versatility in the process.

Her desire to actively support the make-up industry has seen her participate in industry events, panels and partnerships with fellow make-up artists and beauty professionals. By communicating and engaging with industry peers, she has worked to foster growth, diversity and innovation in the sector, promoting the importance of embracing and meeting the needs of a wide range of skin tones, ethnicities and cultures.

“I will carry this award with pride and it will motivate me to achieve more. I believe there are plenty more brilliant wins ahead of me!”

Aesthetic Clinic of the Year

Winner: Dr Emma Clinics

Dr Emma Clinics is owned by Dr Emma Cunningham, who won Aesthetic Practitioner of the Year at the Beauty, Hair &Spa Awards 2022. With three locations in Dublin, and in Newry and Slieve Donard Resort &Spa in Co Down, the business takes a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.

Dr Emma believes there is is no quick-fix or one-treatment-fits-all solution. Each client is treated on an individualised basis, with every aspect of their life considered, including lifestyle, diet and environmental factors, before an appropriate treatment plan is created. The team of medics work closely together, signposting clients to relevant clinical services to ensure that they are receiving the utmost care. They also ensure clients are educated in any treatments they wish to undergo, and will also refuse to perform some treatments, if they believe this is in the client’s best interests.

Providing exceptional client service is a fundamental focus at Dr Emma Clinics. From the initial recruitment process, staff are encouraged to be caring and compassionate as these are considered to be the building blocks for helping a client to feel both seen and heard. Protocols are implemented to ensure that from the initial point of contact, the client is dealt with efficiently and effectively. The business has invested in staff training, as well as in its CRM system, to ensure that it has everything needed to deliver a top-tier service.

“This recognition goes far beyond the title; it’s a reflection of the passion and dedication we’ve poured into every moment and every treatment.”

Nail Salon of the Year

Winner: Culture Club Beauty

Founded by Jessie O’Brien in 2018, Culture Club Beauty also won Nail Salon of the Year at the Beauty, Hair &Spa Awards 2023. From acrylic extensions and BIAB, to gel polish and deluxe pedicures, it offers a wide range of nail treatments to suit all requests.

The salon’s philosophy is centered around providing a happy, welcoming and personalised experience for each client, to always exceed their expectations. It prioritises not only the physical transformation, but also the mental and emotional wellbeing of its clients. This is achieved through a combination of skilled professionals, top-quality products, and a warm and friendly environment. High standards are maintained at all times – from the nail prep to the end result, every nail treatment is done with meticulous attention to detail.

The salon is also committed to putting sustainability to the fore; it uses cruelty-free products and aims to minimise its environmental impact. In addition, it has a focus on inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that everyone feels valued and respected. Dedicated to providing the best beauty experience, it always aims to create a safe space where clients can feel pampered, empowered and inspired.

“I couldn’t be more proud to win this award for the second time. It wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and commitment of each and every one of my team.”

Aesthetic Practitioner of the Year

Winner: Dr Ninnette De Klerk, Ailesbury Clinic

Dr Ninnette De Klerk qualified as a doctor in South Africa in 2006. She owned an aesthetics clinic there for some time, before she moved to Dublin with her family in 2021. She began working in the Ailesbury Clinic in 2023, and has since expanded the range of offerings there to include more energy-based treatments, skin boosters, more brands of toxins and dermal fillers, weight loss consultations, and body treatments. She has also helped to introduce new technology to the clinic and to upgrade existing equipment. She completed a professional diploma in dermatology in May 2024 and now offers dermatology consultations, including mole scans and skin lesion removal.

As an aesthetic practitioner, her goal when treating clients is to achieve the most natural outcome. She specialises in setting up a personalised treatment plan for every client, using a wide variety of options, including energy-based devices, biostimulators, collagen induction treatments, injectables and threads. An important part of her consultation process is to discuss possible treatments and outcomes with the client, and to manage their expectations. She prides herself on being able to make an assessment and decide what treatments are needed to balance or correct any concerns a client has in the most natural way, and without overtly changing their own features.

“This award is a shared achievement with Ailesbury Clinic, as their talent, teamwork and dedication drive me to be my very best.”

Beauty Salon of the Year

Winner: Ómra Beauty

Ómra Beauty is owned by Rachael Foley, who won Therapist of the Year both in 2023 and 2024. The Dublin salon strives to deliver unparalleled beauty, body and holistic therapies in a serene and tranquil setting. The salon’s design is inspired by nature, with earthy tones, rock salt lamps and essential oils helping to create a peaceful setting. Its mission is to provide professional treatments in a friendly, welcoming and relaxed environment, which is underpinned by respect and compassion. As well as being a salon, Foley and her team pride themselves on being a sanctuary where true beauty, inside and out, is celebrated.

As an inclusive and safe space, initiatives at Ómra Beauty include offering discreet support for domestic abuse victims. It also specialises in oncology aesthetics, providing nurturing treatments for cancer patients at a time when they need it most, and supports cancer charities through various volunteering initiatives. The business as a whole is very much engaged with the local community and strives to give back as much as possible.

All staff regularly upskill and retrain to stay up to date with the latest beauty trends and innovations. This commitment allows the team to share valuable knowledge with clients, empowering them to participate in their own self-care regimes.

“This incredible recognition puts our salon on the map, and we are dedicated to raising our standards every day.”

Beauty Salon or Spa Team of the Year

Winner: Easanna Wellness & Spa

This is Easanna Wellness &Spa’s second time winning Beauty Salon or Spa Team of Year, having scooped the prize in 2023 as well. The team is made up of unique, skilled individuals who come together to support one another and their clients. Each member brings something special to the overall dynamic. For instance, Roza brings a blend of wisdom and wit to every client interaction, while Shauna keeps everything organised and running smoothly. Meanwhile, Niki has a talent for making every client feel like they’ve just walked off a movie set, Ciara has a massage technique that can melt away the toughest of knots and Analiza is the go-to for any wellness query.

Striving to work seamlessly as a unit, they focus on learning together, rather than competing with one another. They pride themselves on delivering excellent service, with a blend of professionalism, humour, humanity and warmth.

The team’s commitment to positive energy is not just a part of the service, it’s the core of who they are. They believe that when they are happy and supportive, it reflects in the experience they provide. They are always ready to make every day a bit brighter for colleagues and clients – one laugh, one service and one positive interaction at a time.

“This recognition is a reflection of the dedication, effort and harmony every team member brings to making our space so special.”

Spa of the Year

Winner: Aqua Sana Forest Spa, Longford Forest

Winner of Spa of the Year for the second consecutive year, Aqua Sana Forest Spa, Longford Forest has four spa zones with 21 experiences, including saunas, steam rooms, sensory showers, relaxation rooms, reflexology footbaths, waterbeds, an outdoor pool, hot tubs and an express beauty area.

With an extensive menu that includes brands such as Elemis, it also offers the Heart of Ireland treatment, which is a unique experience designed by the team of therapists. Utilising Voya products, it is inspired by ancient Irish heritage and combines the power of touch, the healing properties of quartz crystal, and the detoxifying and hydrating benefits of wild Atlantic seaweed. In addition, it runs a number of wellbeing sessions to empower guests to practise self-care at home. These include Discovery Sessions to introduce new products to guests, and Sleep Sessions to lay the foundations for practising mindfulness.

Aqua Sana Forest Spa believes its staff are critical to its success, and it aims to equip them with the skills to deliver a memorable service at all times. Its bespoke training programme and service journey are designed to empower everyone to consistently achieve the highest standards of care.

“To be recognised for such a prestigious award is a testament to the team, and I’m extremely proud of their achievements.”

Therapist of the Year

Winner: Rachael Foley, Ómra Beauty

Winner of Therapist of the Year for the second year in a row, Rachael Foley is the owner of Ómra Beauty in Dublin, which she opened 11 years ago. With qualifications in beauty, body and holistic therapies, she recently completed her first year of a business degree at UCD.

It was her love of working with people, fascination with everything beautyrelated and background in science that drew her to the industry. Putting her heart and soul into her work, she always strives for the best results for her clients, going above and beyond to ensure every single one leaves her salon feeling pampered, valued and beautiful. She believes that being a therapist is about more than having the technical skills; it involves being an educator, counsellor, confidant, advisor, team member and more.

Foley sees every day as an opportunity to make a positive impact, and to continue to grow in a field that she is passionate about. To maintain the highest level of treatments in her salon, she continually upskills and does refresher courses, and attends industry events to network and stay ahead of the curve.

“This honour humbles me, and I remain committed to growing, giving my best and creating exceptional experiences for every client.”