Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Kang.
Hi Julia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve been drawn to hair, makeup, and fashion. It’s always been more than just a passion—it’s a part of who I am. But growing up, my parents didn’t quite see it that way. They dreamed of me becoming a doctor or a lawyer, so I enrolled in community college to follow the path they wanted. I made it through one quarter before realizing I just couldn’t picture myself sitting at a desk, working in corporate, and feeling unfulfilled.
At 21, I took a leap of faith. I booked a one-way flight to New York City and enrolled at the Aveda Institute. That decision changed my life. It was the start of my beauty journey, and it helped shape the stylist—and the woman—I’ve become today.
Thinking back on all the long hours, hard work, and growth I’ve experienced over the years, I feel nothing but pride. I love what I do. I love connecting with people, hearing their stories, and using my hands to create something that makes them light up. There’s nothing like that moment when a client looks in the mirror and smiles—that spark of confidence is everything to me.
Over time, many of my clients have become more like friends. The relationships I’ve built through this business are something I truly cherish. When someone walks into my salon, I want them to feel like they’re at home. And when they leave, I want them to walk out with the most beautiful hair—and a feeling of being seen and cared for.
I’ve come a long way from that 21-year-old who flew to New York with nothing but a dream—but this is just the beginning. I still have so much I want to create, build, and give back to the industry that gave me purpose.
At the end of the day, it’s more than just hair—it’s about creating a space where people feel seen, heard, and beautiful. That’s what I strive for every time someone walks through my door, and it’s what keeps me inspired to keep growing, both as a stylist and as a person.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not. The journey has had its fair share of bumps, but every struggle taught me something valuable. In the beginning, the hardest part was going against what my parents wanted for me. Choosing a creative path over a traditional one meant I had to believe in myself when not many others did.
Moving to New York with no support system and starting over in a new city was scary. I was balancing school, working odd jobs, and just trying to survive. There were times I barely had enough money for food, let alone beauty supplies—but I kept pushing.
Even after graduating, building a clientele and earning respect in this industry wasn’t easy. I’ve faced burnout, self-doubt, and moments where I questioned if I made the right choice. But every challenge helped me grow stronger, more skilled, and more connected to my purpose.
Today, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. Every struggle was a step toward the life and career I always dreamed of—and I wouldn’t change a thing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a licensed cosmetologist and independent hairstylist with a focus on creating effortlessly beautiful, healthy hair. I specialize in lived-in color, dimensional blonding, and textured cuts that are customized for each individual. Whether it’s a full transformation or a subtle refresh, I always aim to enhance my clients’ natural beauty while keeping the health of their hair a top priority.
What I’m probably best known for is the experience I provide. It’s not just about getting your hair done—it’s about how you feel during and after. I take my time, I listen, and I really pay attention to the details. I want every client to feel relaxed, understood, and beautiful when they leave my chair.
What sets me apart is that I don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. I treat every head of hair and every person with intention and care. I’m also constantly learning and evolving—whether it’s through continued education, trying new techniques, or learning from my clients themselves.
I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built through this work. I’ve had clients follow me through different salons, cities, and stages of life. Some of them have become like family. That trust means everything to me—and it’s the reason I do what I do.
What matters most to you?
What matters most to me is making people feel seen, valued, and beautiful—inside and out. Hair is the medium I use, but connection is the heart of everything I do. There’s something powerful about helping someone feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. It’s more than just a service—it’s care, trust, and sometimes even healing.
I’ve had clients sit in my chair going through big life changes—breakups, pregnancies, loss, new beginnings—and to be a small part of those moments means the world to me. That kind of trust and intimacy is sacred, and I don’t take it lightly.
Why? Because I know what it feels like to not be seen, to feel out of place, or to be chasing something that doesn’t align with your heart. So creating a space where someone feels understood and walks out standing a little taller—that’s everything to me.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://salonlofts.com/julia_kang
- Instagram: Jooshair22
- Other: https://salonlofts.com/julia_kang/schedule
