Anavel Barajas, Color Educator with MOROCCANOIL, is a true artist, and that’s why we’ve selected her as our February Educator of the Month!

Anavel Barajas, Color Educator with MOROCCANOIL, has brought her artistic passion to clients for 13 years. She is excited to bring that passion and her love for learning to the industry as an educator.

How’d you get your start in education?

My heart has always been in watching people grow and finding their purpose in life. It only takes one person to believe in you and make a difference, so when my distributor rep asked if I’d consider becoming an educator, I applied; I wanted to be that person for someone else.

What’s your favorite product from MOROCCANOIL?

I have two go-to products that I use on all my clients: First, the original MOROCCANOIL TREATMENT—it is such a great styling tool and treatment. The best part is that it improves shine by 118%.

Second is the ALL IN ONE LEAVE-IN CONDITIONER. It gives hair everything it needs—hydration, nourishment, heat protection—and leaves hair feeling soft.

What's the newest, freshest approach you're bringing to education?

I try to remind stylists of their value as an artist and the importance of learning and creative passion. This can all get lost when you start looking at your work as a job and not as an art.

What are the common problems faced by stylists today?

I see many stylists feeling badly about themselves because they compare themselves and their work to other stylists, especially with social media.

Stylists need to remember that they are artists. Our work comes from our heart and is not something others can replicate. When you remind yourself of this, you can see that there is no reason for comparison; your work is your art, and you are sharing that with your clients.

If I start feeling doubt creeping in, I just remind myself of a quote by the painter Van Gogh: “There is nothing more truly artistic than to love people.“So the opportunity to bring my art to people in a way that benefits them keeps me going.

What do you want stylists to know about education?

I once heard a quote that has always stuck with me:

“The capacity to learn is a gift. The ability to learn is a skill. The willingness to learn is a choice.”

Education is a choice to grow and evolve and become the next best version of yourself, both for yourself and those sitting in your chair.

What are your educator goals?

I just love people and the ability to change their lives through my art. So I want to bring that fire and passion to the industry.

Who’s your biggest mentor?

My Regional Manager, Andrea, and Diana, my Distributor Rep. They both have been so supportive of me—they believed in me and encouraged me to become an educator, and I’m so grateful for it.

Where do you find your inspiration? (for teaching, for behind the chair, for personal life)

I find inspiration in my faith. I am so thankful that I get the opportunity to meet new people and use my gift to better their lives every day.

What is the most rewarding part about educating?

For me, it’s knowing that you were a part of someone’s growth.

What is your favorite cutting or coloring technique?

I specialize in blondes—I can do balayage with my eyes closed, but as an artist, I feel most creative and alive when I’m doing fantasy colors.

What is a word of advice that you have for new stylists?

Always persevere: Don’t give up. When things get tough, remember why you started.

Any advice for seasoned stylists?

You don’t have to do it all, and that’s okay. Focus on finding your passion and your purpose and sticking with that. When you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.

How do you like to spend your days off? (hobbies/interests)

I like to relax and recharge; I find a good book and get a pedicure.

Favorite pick-me-up in the middle of a busy salon day? (snack, coffee, music, meditation, etc.)

I have to say, I love Hot Cheetos, but nothing is more refreshing than stepping into my office to take a minute and breathe, pray, and reset.