Two-Day Academy Class: Balayage, Blonding & Corrective Color

From hair painting to high-lift mastery — gain real-world confidence in advanced color work.

Day 1: Balayage / Hair Painting

Learn practical, salon-ready balayage techniques and how to customize them for every client.

Class Description:

What’s the real difference between balayage and modern foiling? This class provides a comprehensive introduction to balayage and surface painting techniques, covering who it’s best for, what results to expect, and how to communicate realistic outcomes with your clients. You’ll learn hands-on techniques that are simple, effective, and easy to implement behind the chair.

From brush selection to application tools, from classic full painting to modern "peaks and valleys" patterns, this class breaks down the methods that make balayage both artistic and functional.

Key Segments:

• What Is Balayage?

• Definition, history, and evolution in the salon

  1. How it compares to foiling

• Pros & Cons of Balayage

• When it works beautifully — and when to avoid it

  1. Realistic client expectations and maintenance

• Ideal Hair Types for Balayage

• Texture, density, porosity, and previous color history

• Client Consultation from Photos

• How to identify techniques in inspiration photos

  1. Language to manage expectations

  2. Setting you and your client up for success

• Tools Overview

• Brushes for balayage vs. foil work

  1. Power lighteners for surface painting

  2. Paddles, film, and saturation tools

• Techniques & Application

• “Peaks and Valleys” painting

  1. Full painting vs. weaved or sliced application

  2. Creating dimension through gradation

• Hands-On Segment

• Apply one or more balayage looks on mannequins

  1. Practice clean blending, saturation, and placement

Tools Needed:

• Tail Combs

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Favorite Color Tools (brushes, bowls, paddles, film, etc.)

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

Day 2: All-Over Lightening & Corrective Color

Master global blonding, bleach retouches, and the principles of corrective color and toning.

Class Description:

To be a true blonding expert, you must go beyond foils. This class focuses on global lightening and the essential skills needed to correct or lift previous color. You’ll learn the chemistry of bleach, how it behaves differently on virgin vs. previously colored hair, and how to handle retouches and rebalancing.

We'll also dive into corrective color theory, including bleach washes, color balancing, and how to identify when and how to tone for an even, healthy finish. This class emphasizes hands-on practice, formulation confidence, and real-world application.

Key Segments:

• Bleach Chemistry

• How bleach works on the cortex

  1. Developer strength, timing, and porosity effects

• Global Blonding Applications

• Full-head bleach on virgin hair

  1. Scalp bleach retouches: sectioning, timing, overlap control

• Corrective Color Principles

• When to bleach wash or color balance

  1. Neutralizing unwanted tones post-lift

  2. Understanding bands, uneven lift, and compromised hair

• Client Consultation from Photos

• Identifying corrections and expected results

  1. Key phrases for guest education and consent

• Hands-On Practice:

• Lift swatches for visual learning

  1. Full-head bleach application (mannequin)

  2. Tone and gloss based on observed level and condition

Tools Needed:

• Tail Combs

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Favorite Color Tools (bleach, bowls, brushes, foils if needed)

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

Two-Day Academy Class: Understanding Curls & Cutting

Empower your artistry. Build confidence with texture.

Class Overview:

Curly hair doesn’t need to be intimidating — it should be inspiring. In this two-day hands-on experience, stylists will build a strong foundation in curl theory, learn how to assess curl types and hair behavior, and develop the technical skill and confidence needed to approach curly haircuts with creativity and care.

Led by Stephen Adams of Moxie Hair Salon and Axcelr8 Academy, this course goes beyond basic curl education. You’ll explore both wet and dry cutting methods, work with a variety of curl patterns, and learn styling, product usage, and consultation techniques for curly guests of all textures and densities.

Perfect for:

• New stylists wanting to build a confident curl foundation

• Seasoned stylists seeking to modernize or refresh their curl-cutting approach

• Anyone looking to grow their curly clientele and expand their service offerings

Day 1: Curl Foundations & Wet Cutting Techniques

Understanding, caring for, and shaping curls with intention.

Core Concepts:

• The diversity of curl patterns: wavy, curly, coily, and everything in between

• Porosity, elasticity, and moisture retention

• Product and tool selection by curl type

• Detangling methods, curl prep, and protective styling

• When to cut wet, dry, or combine both methods

Hands-On Focus:

1. Curl Theory & Care

• Curl typing systems (2A–4C)

• Hair structure, shrinkage, density, and strand width

• How porosity impacts product choice, hydration, and color service

• Recommended home care and salon maintenance plans

2. Wet Cutting Techniques

• Creating balanced shape on hydrated curls

• Sectioning for curl preservation

• Avoiding over-removal of weight and length

• Face framing and layering for curl movement and bounce

3. Protective Sets & Styling for Definition

• Setting curls to maintain health and prevent frizz

• Combing, detangling, product application methods

• Leave-in layering and curl-friendly styling brushes

4. Diffusing & Finish Work

• Best practices for diffusing various curl types

• Creating volume vs. elongation

• Styling finishes for photos and consultations

Day 2: Dry Cutting & Advanced Curl Artistry

Elevate your eye. Personalize every curl.

Core Concepts:

• Visual cutting: seeing the shape in the curl

• Understanding curl memory and springback

• Dry vs. damp cutting — when to choose which

• Customizing shapes for personality, lifestyle, and curl behavior

• Building a curl-focused consultation strategy

Hands-On Focus:

1. Dry Cutting Fundamentals

• Creating shape based on how curls live in real life

• Sculpting curl by curl

• Blending without disrupting curl pattern

• Preserving perimeter softness while managing bulk

2. Advanced Curl Shapes

• Round shapes, asymmetric layers, and volume building

• Working with tight coils and high-density hair

• Working with fine curls: when less is more

• Combining razor work (if appropriate) and slide cutting for loosened curls

3. Bangs, Fringes & Face-Framing on Curly Hair

• How to customize curly bangs for multiple curl types

• When and how to cut face-framing dry or damp

• Balancing density with softness around the face

4. Building a Curly Clientele

• How to talk to textured guests with confidence

• What language builds trust

• Creating maintenance plans, pricing structure, and take-home regimens

Hands-On Format (Both Days):

Each segment includes an educator demo of a section, followed by guided hands-on practice on mannequins. Individual feedback is provided throughout the session to refine and build technique.

Tools Needed (Both Days):

• Shears

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Cutting Combs

• Blow Dryer

• Diffuser Attachment

• Styling Brush

• Detangling Brush (e.g., Wet Brush or Denman Brush)

Day 1: Razor Cutting Mastery

Unlock the full potential of the razor: precision, softness, and speed.

Class Description:

Explore the art and science of razor cutting. Often misunderstood as only a tool for shattered, edgy texture, the razor is also a precision instrument capable of creating clean lines, controlled graduation, and seamless layering.

This hands-on class will build a strong foundation in razor technique, safety, tool selection, and the movement behind the cut. You’ll learn how to speed up your cutting process, soften shapes, and add dimension — all while unleashing your creative edge.

This academy class is designed for all levels:

• Perfect for new stylists building foundational skills

• A powerful refresher for seasoned stylists ready to expand their razor work

Key Learning Topics:

• Types of razors:

• Stick razors, comb razors, swing-blade razors

  1. How and when to use each one

• Safety and control:

• How to use the razor and comb together safely

• Hair types suitable for razor work

• Body position, hand control, and finger placement for consistent results

Hands-On Format:

Educator demonstrates each section, followed by student application on mannequins with guided feedback.

Segments Covered:

1. Razor Knowledge & Tool Theory

2. Understanding razor types and their purposes

3. Long Layered Haircut

4. Soft interior movement and flowing shape

5. Graduated Bob

6. Clean lines with razor-softened structure

7. Shaggy Pixie

8. Controlled chaos with precision and play

Tools Needed:

• Razor (preferred type for stylist use)

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Cutting Combs

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

Day 2: Mastering Men’s / Short Haircutting

Modern men’s cutting — from long to clipper work with confidence.

Class Description:

Creating strong, masculine silhouettes and short shapes with versatility can feel intimidating — especially when transitioning from longer styles. This in-depth, hands-on class takes you through that full journey: from long hair and mop-top styles to precision clipper and scissor work.

Using mannequins, you'll learn how to refine structure, use razors for soft transitions, and master both scissor-over-comb and clipper-over-comb techniques. Whether your goal is to grow your male clientele or get more comfortable with shorter haircuts in general, this class builds both technique and confidence.

Great for all skill levels, including:

• Stylists new to short hair and men's cuts

• Experienced stylists looking to expand their clipper and crop techniques

Course Breakdown:

Lecture (30 minutes)

• Understanding masculine vs. androgynous shapes

• Commercial vs. editorial looks

• Working with texture, density, and head shape

Segment 1: Long to Short (1 Hour)

• Razor work on longer hair

• Creating shape and transition from mop-top to cropped

Segment 2: Square Crop + Variations (1 Hour)

• Modern square shapes

• Demo and hands-on: how one shape can evolve into multiple finishes

Segment 3: Scissor + Clipper Work (1.5 Hours)

• Scissor-over-comb vs. clipper-over-comb

• Blending and refining techniques

• Adjusting tools and tension for texture and hair type

Hands-On Format:

Educator demonstrates each cut in sections. Trainees then practice the same section on their mannequins with real-time coaching.

Tools Needed:

• Razor

• Scissors

• Cutting Combs

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

Day 1: Proficient Layering

Elevate your layering skills with precision and creativity.

Class Description:

Take your layering to the next level with this advanced hands-on class focused on three versatile, commercial-ready haircuts. Learn to execute round layers through the trending Butterfly Cut, explore the nuances between a Shag and a Mullet, and finish strong with the modern, textured Layered Bob (Bixie).

Each haircut will feature a unique fringe variation (face frame, curtain, or short/textured), helping you customize cuts to suit different guests. You'll also build confidence in your finishing and texturizing techniques — including slide cutting, visual cutting, and debulking — ensuring you leave ready to deliver fresh, fashion-forward shapes behind the chair.

This class is designed for all skill levels:

• Perfect for new stylists seeking structure and confidence

• Valuable refresher for seasoned pros looking to modernize their layering game

Segments Covered:

1. Wet Cutting (Demo + Hands-On)

• Commercial Long Layers (Butterfly Cut)

• Round layering for movement and softness

• Shag and/or Mullet

• Learn the key differences in shape, weight, and styling

• Layered Bob (Bixie)

• Combining structure with texture for short-to-mid hair

2. Fringes & Face Framing

• Curtain Fringe

• Short & Textured Bangs

• Soft, customized Face Framing

3. Texturizing Techniques

• Understanding the difference: Debulking vs. Texturizing

• Slide Cutting

• Point Cutting

• Visual/Freehand Cutting

4. Blow Drying & Styling

• Flat wrapping

• Round brushing for shape and finish

Hands-On Structure:

• Educator demonstrates each section

• Students replicate section on mannequins with guided feedback

Tools Needed:

• Razor

• Shears

• Cutting Combs

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

• Round Brush

Day 2: Dry Haircutting

Master dry cutting for precision, texture, and salon success.

Class Description:

Dry haircutting continues to gain popularity for its precision, customization, and visual flow. In this class, you’ll discover when and why to cut hair dry — based on hair type, desired outcome, and styling habits. We'll address common questions like:

• When is dry cutting best?

• Can you cut on dirty or curly hair?

• How does prep impact results?

You’ll also learn to use razors, texturizing shears, and other tools effectively for softening, de-bulking, and adding movement — so you can confidently offer modern, dimensional looks and make more money behind the chair.

This class is designed for all levels, from entry-level stylists to experienced professionals wanting to refine their dry cutting approach.

Segments Covered:

1. Dry Cutting Theory

• When to cut dry vs. wet

• Ideal hair types and textures

• Prepping for dry cuts

• Pros/cons of cutting curly, straight, or unwashed hair

• Tool selection: razors, softening scissors, and texturizers

2. Hands-On Haircuts (Demo + Practice)

• Haircut 1: Long Layers with Face Framing

• Refine movement and contour in dry hair

• Haircut 2: Modern Blunt Bob with Texture

• Polish the perimeter and add softness through internal layering

• Haircut 3: Bixie and/or Pixie Cut

• Precision shaping with personalized texture and weight balance

Hands-On Structure:

• Educator demonstrates each section

• Students replicate section on mannequins with personalized coaching

Tools Needed:

• Shears

• Texturizing Scissors

• Cutting Combs

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

Day 1: Understanding Hair Color Chemistry

Build the foundation. Trust the science. Formulate with confidence.

Class Description:

No more guessing. This foundational course provides an in-depth look at the chemistry behind hair color, lighteners, toners, and the hair itself. Understanding pH, alkalizers, peroxide, and dye molecules helps stylists master formulation, protect hair integrity, and improve client results.

We’ll explore how color actually works — not just in theory, but hands-on — including swatching and pH testing. Learn how to get better blondes, make smarter lightening decisions, and stop relying on hope and habit.

Knowledge is power — and healthy hair is the result.

Segments Covered:

1. Hair & Color Chemistry

• The structure of the hair strand

• pH scale and how it relates to hair

• Chemical composition of color products

• Role of alkalizers, peroxide (H₂O₂), and dye molecules

• “Fluff & Stuff”: other ingredients and what they really do

2. Understanding Color Types

• Differences between temporary, semi, demi, and permanent color

• How alkalizers define the category of color

• How different lines behave on the hair

3. Swatching Lab #1

• Compare how each type of color behaves

• Hands-on swatch test using a variety of color tools

• Identify differences between lines, tones, and pH

4. Bleaching & Lighteners

• Types of lighteners and their purposes

• Understanding developers: energy, speed, and control

• Why "low and slow" protects the hair

• The myth of the 45-minute lift window

5. Toning Fundamentals

• Determine level of lift before toning

• Ideal levels for using toners (usually level 9–10)

• Difference between toning vs. deposit-only color

6. Swatching Lab #2

• Formulate toners

• Test pH of bleach and toner

• Swatch results and compare outcome

Tools Needed:

None required – all materials provided in class.

Day 2: Understanding Hair Color Formulation

Formulate with clarity. Recommend with confidence.

Class Description:

Building on the chemistry from Day 1, this class is all about formulation. Understand the relationship between color theory, natural levels, underlying pigments, and desired results. Eliminate guesswork and take control of your formulations by learning how to calculate tone, lift, and coverage — whether going lighter, darker, or covering gray.

Hands-on swatching reinforces theory with real-world visuals, so stylists walk away with a practical, repeatable approach to formulation.

Segments Covered:

1. Chemistry Recap (20 minutes)

• Quick refresh of key concepts from Day 1

• How chemistry informs formulation decisions

2. Formulation Theory

• Color wheel fundamentals

• Neutralizing unwanted tones

• Creating natural and custom tones

• Color math: how to cancel or enhance tones

3. Understanding Levels & Lift

• Level discovery techniques (using black & white photos)

• How texture and porosity affect level and lift

• Understanding underlying pigment and dominant pigment

• Gray coverage: how to calculate % and respond appropriately

4. Formulation Process (Permanent Color)

• Identify:

• Natural level

  1. Target level

  2. Target tone

  3. Underlying pigment

  4. Texture & porosity

  5. % of gray

• Apply color math to build correct formulations

5. Going Darker

• When filling is required (3+ levels darker)

• When it’s not (1–2 levels)

• Re-pigmentation strategies (not always red!)

6. Going Lighter

• Understanding limits of permanent color (up to 4 levels)

• High-lift color: when and how to use it

• How texture affects the amount of lift

7. Toning Recap

• Reassess lifted level before toning

• Use of toners at level 9–10

• When to use deposit-only color

• Swatching for tone correction and matching

Swatching Lab:

• Create and test multiple formulations

• Apply toners and observe results

• Compare developer strength, processing times, and tone results

Tools Needed:

None required – all materials provided in class.

Day 1: Fundamental Haircutting (Workshop)

Class Description:

Haircutting is built on three foundational shapes and three core techniques. In this academy workshop, stylists will learn how to choose the right shape and technique based on desired outcomes, hair type, and guest goals. We’ll break down how finger angle, hand positioning, and body mechanics directly influence the final result — and how small adjustments can dramatically shift the shape, weight, and movement of a haircut.

This class is ideal for all experience levels:

• New stylists just out of school or early in their career

• Seasoned professionals looking to refine and refresh their foundational skills

Core Learning Objectives:

• Understand the “how, why, and when” behind haircutting theory

• Explore the relationship between shape, technique, and suitability

• Refine sectioning based on haircut shape

• Practice proper body positioning, hand control, and finger angle for each technique

• Build confidence through real-time guidance and hands-on repetition

Format:

Hands-On Workshop — Each haircut includes a live demonstration of one section by the educator, followed by guided mannequin work by participants.

Class Segments:

1. Haircutting Theory

• Overview of the three core haircutting techniques

• Foundational shapes: round, square, and triangular

• Suitability and decision-making for face shape, density, and texture

2. Haircut 1: Long Layers with Face Framing

• Vertical sectioning and 90° elevation

• Internal layering for movement

• Customized face-framing technique

3. Haircut 2: Modern Blunt Bob with Texture

• Clean perimeter cutting

• Internal texturizing for softness and edge

• Dry detailing for movement and personalization

4. Haircut 3: Classic Graduated Bob

• Diagonal back sectioning

• Precision finger angles for weight build-up

• Understanding graduation and structure

Tools Needed:

• Shears

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Cutting Combs

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

Day 2: BOB, BOBS, AND MORE BOBS

Mastering the Most Versatile Haircut in the Industry

Class Description:

The bob haircut is a timeless classic — foundational, versatile, and essential for every stylist to master. Whether it’s sleek and blunt, soft and graduated, or edgy and disconnected, the bob serves as a blueprint for strong technical haircutting. This class explores the nuance between a bob with graduation and a graduated bob, clarifying common misconceptions and giving stylists the confidence to execute a wide range of shapes without falling into the dreaded “Karen cut” territory.

This academy workshop is designed for all skill levels:

• A must for new stylists building core skills

• An excellent refresher for experienced stylists looking to refine bob techniques and modernize their approach

Class Focus Areas:

Focus 1: What Is a Bob?

• History, evolution, and relevance of the bob in today’s salon world

• Understanding classic vs. modern bob variations

• The language of bobs: blunt, graduated, stacked, disconnected

Focus 2: Precision Technique

• The importance of:

• Body position for balance and symmetry

  1. Hand and arm position for cutting line control

  2. Finger angle for weight distribution

Class Format:

Hands-On Workshop

• The educator demonstrates each section on a mannequin

• Trainees replicate each section with personalized coaching and feedback

Segments Covered:

1. Bob Knowledge

2. What defines a bob?

   1. Why bobs matter in every stylist’s skill set

   2. A brief history of the bob and its impact on fashion

3. Bob with Graduation

4. Subtle internal buildup for softness and shape

   1. Ideal for clients who want movement without hard lines

5. Graduated Bob (French Bob)

6. Strong stacked shape with visible weight and structure

   1. Elevation, diagonal sections, and precision finger angle

7. Short Box Bob with Disconnection

8. Bold, editorial-inspired silhouette

   1. Combining clean perimeters with internal disconnection

Tools Needed:

• Shears

• 10 Sectioning Clips

• Cutting Combs

• Blow Dryer

• Styling Brush

Axcler8Academy: Design a Haircut and Color along with a Photoshoot

You have honed your skills and are now ready to apply your knowledge on a live model. For this course, you will need to bring a model with you. Together, we will go from inspiration to sketching a diagram, working on a mannequin, and then to executing the actual cut and color on your model. You can choose any style you like. Afterward, we will photograph your model, creating an image that you and your model can utilize for your social media, website, marketing, or any other purpose.

https://www.beautycertifiededucation.org/education-store/april-27-28-design-and-photograph-your-haircut-color