The Mane Stage

Compete for Cash!

Prizes Starting at $2000

Grand Prize

Cash Prize + Featured in Hype Hair Magazine

The winner of the AAIM Beauty Innovators Hair Competition will receive a cash prize valued at a minimum of $2,000, a stunning crown symbolizing their achievement, a coveted feature in Hype Hair Magazine, putting their artistry in the spotlight, along with unmatched industry recognition, visibility among top professionals and brands, and ultimate bragging rights (of course)!

application process

The AAIM Beauty Innovators Hair Competition is calling all creatives to take the stage, showcase their artistry, and compete for the CROWN. This year’s theme, “Bloom”, is all about growth, transformation, and stepping into your full potential with bold, show-stopping style.

This isn’t just a competition—it’s a movement. We’re looking for hairstylists who can merge art and innovation, bringing concepts to life that are worthy of the main stage. The journey begins here, but the spotlight at the AAIM Beauty Innovators Summit & Hair Competition awaits only the best.

If you are not selected to advance, don’t worry—your $50 application fee can be applied toward the purchase of a ticket to attend the AAIM Beauty Innovators Summit & Hair Competition.

Applications close January 28, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST

Prep

Initial Application

Think you’ve got what it takes? Submit your application, along with a photo or video of your most creative “Bloom”-inspired look.

image credit: Instagram.com/rriotstudio

Prime

Voting Round

Only 50 stylists will make it to this round. We’ll host your submissions online, and it’s time to rally your community because their votes will decide who moves on.

image credit: instagram.com/DarrinBaldridge

Style

Top 10

The top 10 competitors from the Voting Round will show out in an exclusive exhibition judged by top-tier industry pros.

image credit: instagram.com/omiwoods

Set

The Finals

The top 3 finalists will take center stage at the Summit for a live runway showdown. This is where legends are made.

inage credit: instagram.com/aggie_hair

Are You Ready?

This is more than a prize—it’s your moment to shine, inspire, and solidify your legacy in the beauty industry. Are you ready to claim your crown? Let's Bloom!

Apply Now

Hair Competition FAQs

1. Who can apply for the competition?
The competition is open to hairstylists who are at least 18 years old. Applicants aged 16 or 17 may apply with written consent from a parent or legal guardian. Please upload written statement with your submission.

2. What is the theme of the competition?
This year’s theme is "Bloom", celebrating growth, creativity, and transformation. Your submission should reflect this theme in your design and concept.

3. What is the application fee, and is it refundable?
The application fee is $50 and is non-refundable. However, if you are not selected to advance, your application fee can be applied toward the purchase of a ticket to attend the AAIM Beauty Innovators Summit & Hair Competition.

4. What are the submission requirements?
Applicants must submit a high-quality photo or video (no longer than 2 minutes) of their hair creation along with a brief description explaining how it aligns with the theme "Bloom."

5. How will participants be selected?
From all applications, 50 applicants will be chosen to advance to the Voting Round based on creativity, skill, and alignment with the theme.

6. How does the Voting Round work?
The submissions of the top 50 applicants will be showcased on our website, where the public can vote for their favorites. The top 10 competitors will advance to the Semi-Finals.

7. What happens in the Semi-Finals?
The Semi-Finals will be an exhibition round judged by industry professionals. The top 3 competitors will then move on to the Finals at the AAIM Beauty Innovators Summit & Hair Competition. Semi-finals will take place in the Washington, DC Metropolitain area. Travel and accommodations are the responsibility of the contestant.

8. What is expected of finalists?
Finalists must present polished, professional, and “show-worthy” work. They will be required to:

Provide professional makeup for their models at their own expense.
Participate in all scheduled rehearsals.
Adhere to the theme “Bloom” throughout their creations.

9. What are the prizes?

Grand Prize: A minimum cash prize of $2,000, AAIM Crown, and a feature in Hype Hair Magazine.
2nd Place: A cash prize and recognition during the Finals.
3rd Place: A cash prize and recognition during the Finals.
People’s Choice Award: Recognition as the public’s favorite during the Voting Round.

10. When will I know if I am selected?
Selected applicants will be notified via email. Please ensure your contact information is accurate and up-to-date.

11. What if I have questions or need assistance with my application?
For any questions or assistance, please contact us at hello@aaimbeautysummit.com. We’re here to help!

12. Can I participate even if I don’t advance?
Absolutely! We encourage you to attend the Summit to network, learn, and celebrate the beauty industry. Your $50 application fee can be applied toward your ticket purchase.

13. What is the deadline for applications?
Applications must be submitted by 1/28/2025 at 11:59 PM EST. Late submissions will not be considered.

14. Is the competition open to international applicants?
The competition is open to applicants within the United States. International applicants may contact us for special consideration or additional requirements.

15. What is the competition timeline?

Applications close on 1/28/2025
Voting Round: 02/05/2025 through 03/31/2025
Semi-Finals: Tentatively, May 31, 2025
Finals: October 2025 at the AAIM Beauty Innovators Summit & Hair Competition.