Christina Albamonte from Keune, is Premier Beauty's November Educator of the Month!
How’d you get your start in education?
I always wanted to be both a hairstylist and a teacher when I was younger and then found out I could have the best of both worlds! I went back to school about 6 years into being behind the chair for my Cosmetology Educator’s license and began the education portion of my career teaching at a beauty school. I then became our salon educator and have now been with Keune for the last 3 years.
What’s your favorite product from Keune?
Our Red Infinity color series has been my favorite since the beginning of using this brand! My haircolor is always so fresh and vibrant and I will continue to be a walking billboard for the Keune reds!
What is your favorite formula?
I’m loving this new trend of copper golds and copper reds. Their red and copper colors are what first made me fall in love with Keune as a chemical redhead. I have been using A LOT of 6.43, 7.43, 7.44 and 8.34 lately and especially now going into fall and it gives me such a beautiful result. I have used them as either an all over color or a few of them combined to give incredible dimension for the client.
What do you love about coloring with Keune?
I love the consistency of our brand and the shine it gives to the hair. It truly does what it’s meant to do and I can always depend on it to yield the best and most beautiful results, keeping those clients coming back for more.
What's the newest, freshest approach you're bringing to education?
Relatability. I hope students and attendees of my classes can see me as someone who is approachable and open to talk about not only the technical aspects of a class but also as a fellow stylist behind the chair. No one understands us like we do ourselves. I try to give real life scenarios or situations that I have personally experienced as a stylist. While I may be the one leading the class, they also see me as someone who is down in the trenches with them, too.
What do most classes have questions on?
What my favorite formulations are in the salon, when to use which Keune lighteners and how to utilize mix tones..
What are your favorite styling products from Keune?
Root volumizer, Thickening cream and our newest to the family, the Lumi Coat Supreme Cream! These are my go-tos to give me the lift, texture and protection my hair needs after I wash it. And of course, Dry Shampoo for the other 5 days of the week when I need a refresh!
What are your educator goals?
My main goal is to never become stagnant or complacent. Those butterflies in my stomach before each class lets me know that I’m still humbled, grateful and excited to not only be sharing this information but still making sure I’m giving attendees my best self. I want to continue to be a leader who stays up to date with trends and grounded in my knowledge of Keune.
Who’s your biggest mentor?
My friend and fellow Keune educator, Kara Kalamatas. We started our careers at the same salon many years ago and are now co workers again at Blush Salon and with Keune! I’ve told her that she’s never getting rid of me now!! She has encouraged my journey from day 1 of starting beauty school to introducing me to the Keune brand, to present day- always answering my many questions and giving facilitator advice now as an educator. She has been a big support in my career and an even better friend in my life.
Where you do find your inspiration?
I find inspiration through going to a variety of classes whether it be for color, cut and style or business. I always feel like the refresh button has been pushed after either going to a class or teaching one because I take something away every time. So on those rough days at work when I feel like I'm going through the motions, I have a catalog of inspiration from educators I’ve learned from or from attendees in my classes who have allowed me to see things from a different perspective.
What is the most rewarding part about educating?
Seeing the light bulb go off in a learner's head. To actually see that “Ah Ha!” moment has been my most favorite and most rewarding part of my career from a student just starting out in school to veteran stylists keeping up with the latest trends.
What is your favorite cutting or coloring technique?
Short haircuts have always been my favorite. There are so many versatile ways to cut them and style them and can be worn on such a wide range of ages and personal styles. From the classic pixie or smooth bob to a textured, disconnected or asymmetrical cut, I love to dissect how the cut is done and personalize it for each client.
What is a word of advice that you have for new stylists?
Keep going, keep learning! This business can take a lot out of you physically and mentally. In the beginning, you may not be making as much money as you’d like, but stick it out and allow your love for the craft to lead the way on days you want to give up. Our industry is constantly changing and evolving and education keeps you on the frontline of what's coming next which will help build a loyal and lasting clientele.
How do you like to spend your days off?
Spending time with my husband and loving on our dog, Ernie. Hanging out with family and friends and watching football. We’re expecting our baby girl soon so I’ve been spending my days off relaxing as much as I can now!
Favorite pick-me-up in the middle of a busy salon day?
A Starbucks iced coffee with an extra shot gives me the nice midday jolt I need!
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