From social media-driven trends to specialised beauty services and thriving independent businesses, Jamaica’s beauty industry has transformed significantly over the years. Now, the National Association of Hairdressers and Cosmetologists (NAHC) is marking a major milestone as it prepares to host its 30th Beauty Expo on November 15.
The event will take place at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. under the theme “Advancing Beauty, Empowering Professionals,” bringing together beauty professionals, students, educators, brands, distributors and entrepreneurs for a day of networking, learning and business development.
Founded in 1987, the NAHC has spent decades advocating for professionalism and supporting the development of Jamaica’s beauty sector, which encompasses hairdressers, barbers, nail technicians, lash artists, makeup artists, cosmetologists and other beauty entrepreneurs.
For NAHC president Adethia Brady, the 30th Expo represents more than a celebration of the association’s history. It is also an opportunity to highlight the industry’s growing economic significance and prepare professionals for the opportunities ahead.
“Thirty years represents generations of passion, skill and resilience within Jamaica’s beauty and wellness industry. This Expo honours our journey while highlighting where beauty is going,” Brady said.
She stressed that the sector should be recognised not only for its contribution to personal appearance and wellness, but also for the livelihoods and business opportunities it creates.
“We want professionals to understand that beauty is not just about appearance; it is a monumental economic industry, which creates careers, businesses and opportunities for thousands of Jamaicans,” she noted.
The 2026 Expo will feature product showcases, supplier connections, live demonstrations, educational sessions and business development opportunities. Students and emerging professionals are also expected to benefit from exposure to new career paths and developments influencing the global beauty landscape.
Over the years, the industry has expanded beyond traditional salon services. Social media has changed how practitioners market their services and connect with clients, while international trends and specialised treatments have created new avenues for professionals to build businesses and establish their brands.
Today, many practitioners are also operating as educators, distributors, content creators and entrepreneurs, reflecting the sector’s evolving role in Jamaica’s business landscape.
Brady believes that continued education and adaptability will be essential as professionals navigate these changes and work to maintain high industry standards.
“Our responsibility is to help beauty professionals recognise their value and the potential of this industry. We must keep learning, adapting and raising the standard. The 30th Expo is an opportunity to do exactly that,” she said.
Beyond its business focus, the milestone event will also recognise the generations of practitioners who have helped shape Jamaica’s beauty culture and create opportunities for those entering the profession today.
The NAHC is inviting beauty brands, suppliers, educators and businesses to participate in the Expo and connect with a diverse community of industry professionals.
“We are proud of our history, but even more excited about the future,” Brady added, reaffirming the association’s commitment to helping shape the next chapter of Jamaica’s beauty industry.
As the NAHC celebrates three decades of its Beauty Expo, the November event will serve as an opportunity to reflect on how far the sector has come while encouraging professionals to embrace innovation, strengthen their businesses and recognise the value of their contribution to Jamaica’s economy.
Event details: The NAHC’s 30th Beauty Expo takes place on Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Jamaica Pegasus Hotel in Kingston.
