Donato Sardella/Getty ImagesWhen The New York Times coined hairstylist Jen Atkin "the most influential hairstylist in the world," she was "so shocked and so honored."
But we weren't shocked. No. And we bet her laundry list of celebrity clients (including Khloe Kardashian (along with every other member of the Kardashian/Jenner fam), Chrissy Teigen and Jessica Alba) weren't shocked either.
The woman has single-handedly taken the hair world by storm starting with the birth of her website Mane Addicts, which offers up expert hair advice and tutorials as well as a real look at what happens behind the scenes (and so much more), and now her brand-new hair-care line.
With a motto like "life is hard, looking good should be easy," it's clear OUAI (pronounced "way") Haircare "gets us." We could dive deeper into the subject, but we'll just let Jen take it from here.
What was the main goal behind creating a relatable product line for consumers (who aren't necessarily hair experts)—that's also incredibly easy to use?
My main goal with OUAI was to make favorite celebrity looks realistic and achievable for the modern woman. Hair care has become so complicated, which makes it hard to achieve your favorite styles at home. I wanted to create a line that was beautiful, straightforward and easy to use—something you can easily pop in your purse or gym bag and take on the go.
What else can users expect from the brand?
The website has an easy to navigate subscription model. It has a simple interface that suggests the right products for your unique hair type and an expansive video section with easy to follow hair tutorials where real girls do the styles on themselves. I'm also about to launch my range of supplements that address the three major hair issues most of us face: dry hair, thinning hair and oily scalps. When used in combination with my hair care products, we can address beauty from the inside and out!
The one product everyone should own?
The OUAI Texturizing Hair Spray. If hairspray and dry shampoo had a baby, this would be it. It's the perfect styling aid for all hair types, adding texture, hold, and volume. Plus it leaves you with a dry, matte finish.
What hair products are underrated?
The right shampoo and conditioner. People have no idea what a difference this makes in the overall appearance of your hair and how it can change the texture for the better.
What's an easy-to-do hairstyle that can instantly elevate any look?
Always opt for a sleek look. It's hard to mess up straight hair. Use OUAI Hair Oil to add lots of shine and make sure the ends are really clean. (It also helps to have a great haircut and color. That way, you don't have to style it for it to look good.)
The one hair trend you can't stand?
Cheesy, spiral curls.
What's the best advice you've ever been given?
Serge Normant said not to be threatened by your peers, but be inspired by them. I truly believe there's enough work for all of us to go around. We should support and encourage each other.
What advice would you give to an aspiring young professional?
Work hard. Success doesn't come if you're not willing to work for it!
Who's your favorite Kardashian to style?
I can't choose! They all have such unique, individual styles so it's always fun and amazing to get the opportunity to work with all of them.
What's the coolest celeb look you've ever created?
Working with Gwen Stefani on the cover of Vogue was a major "pinch me" moment for me and my career. She was my high school icon, and Vogue is a dream! I will always remember that shoot."
Was there ever a celeb look you regretted?
Definitely not. We have to learn from all our experiences.
Dead or alive, whose hair would you want to style?
Sade. I just think she's the coolest.