Feast Your Eyes: NAHA’s 2026 Finalists Have Dropped

Once again, the finalists for the 2026 North American Hairstyling Awards are reimagining what’s possible — delivering bold vision, next-level artistry, and flawless execution in collections that push boundaries and stop the scroll.

Now in its 37th year and presented for the first time by JCPenney, the Professional Beauty Association’s signature competition is judged by an elite panel of hairdressing and makeup experts, with submissions evaluated on technical mastery, creative cohesion, and originality.

This year the competition has introduced a new category, International Collection of the Year.

Below, meet the 2026 finalists across all 15 categories, featuring a sneak peek of select looks from each. You can explore every entry in full on the NAHA Gallery — tap the category name to see the full collections.

Winners will be revealed May 31, 2026 live at Premiere Orlando. 

Avant Garde

Barber of the Year

Editorial Stylist of the Year

Educator of the Year

Haircolor

Haircutting

Hairstylist of the Year

Inspiring Salon of the Year

International Collection (New in 2026)

Makeup Artist 

Master Hairstylist 

Student Hairstylist 

Styling & Finishing

Team of the Year

• 1CPR:  Jamie Wiley, Joel Torres, Nanette Guild, Vinnie Morey, Dayna Gamba
• Chrystofer Benson Collective: Chrystofer Benson, Hannah Benson, Lacye Geitgey, Karine Bélanger, Chris Jimenez, Erin Hensley
• Team INdustry: David Vendittelli, Marilyn Vendittelli, Natasha Gerschon
• The Upper Hand: Hannah Waters, Soleil Rocha, Jordan Dudley, Zoe O’Day
• Ulta Beauty: Gilad Goldstein, Michelle O’Connor, Galyna Poczciwinski, Sean Godard, Beto Sanchez, Janelle Eyre

Texture