@jacobaaron / Instagram
“In The Chair” spotlights the incredible hairstylists and makeup artists in our community who are giving us major inspiration. Each week, they discuss their personal beauty and career journeys, what they’ve learned from their clients, and their top glam tips.
Growing up in Chicago, hair was woven into hairstylist Jacob Aaron’s life from a young age. “I was naturally drawn to people who had a strong sense of style and individuality, and hair was always a huge part of that expression,” he tells ESSENCE about the big personalities around him. But, over time, “it became less about just making hair look good and more about creating a feeling or helping someone feel like the best version of themselves.”
Describing his relationship with hair as “organic,” his foundation as a stylist was built by learning, experimenting, and trusting his eye. “Texture, shape, movement, messy undone hair—all of that always stood out to me,” Aaron says. But, it wasn’t until he realized just how much creativity existed in beauty and editorial did he start taking hairdressing seriously. “It clicked that hairstyling could be art, storytelling, fashion, and connection all at once,” he recalls.
Solange Knowles for Pin-Up Magazine via Kobe Wagstaff
From messing with his friends’ hair and being “weirdly particular” about how it fell into their face to adoring styles that weren’t overly “done,” Aaron naturally felt at home with celebrities like Tracee Ellis Ross, Ayo Edebiri, and Ravyn Lenae. And, of course, the beloved curator Solange. “I love building trust with clients and creating an environment where people feel relaxed and confident,” he says. For Solange, that meant feeling relaxed enough to style her hair—then let him buzz it all off. “There’s something really rewarding about creating a full visual story together.”
Ahead, Jacob Aaron tells ESSENCE all about his favorite hairstyles, debunking hair myths, and what he’s learned along the way.
@solangeknowles / Instagram
His Favorite Hair Products:
I’m really into products that enhance texture and movement without making the hair feel heavy. I love anything that keeps hair touchable and natural-looking.
For clients, I gravitate toward lightweight texture sprays, nourishing oils, and products that support healthy hair over time instead of masking damage. I’m not into overly stiff or overstyled hair — I like hair that still feels alive.
On myself, honestly, low-maintenance is key. Good shampoo, hydration, and products that work with the hair instead of fighting it.
His Favorite Hairstyles:
Definitely lived-in, textured hair. I love styles that feel effortless, soft, sexy, and a little imperfect. Hair moves differently when it’s not overworked, and I think that’s what makes it beautiful. I also love creating looks that bring out someone’s individuality instead of making everyone look the same. The goal is always to enhance, not overpower.
His Top Tip for Healthy Hair:
Consistency over trends. Healthy hair starts with taking care of your scalp, protecting the hair from too much heat, staying hydrated, and using products that actually support the hair long term. Also — less is sometimes more. Hair doesn’t always need ten products and a million steps.
Ayo Edebiri for Paper Magazine
A Hair Myth He’d Like to Debunk:
That “perfect” hair means every strand has to be in place. Some of the most beautiful hair has movement, texture, and a little imperfection to it. I think people are moving away from overly polished beauty standards, and I love that.
Ayo Edebiri for S Moda
What He’s Learned From His Clients:
Probably how much trust people place in you without even realizing it. Clients come into your chair carrying stress, insecurity, excitement, heartbreak — all kinds of emotions. It reminds me that this job is bigger than beauty sometimes. I’ve learned that making someone feel seen or comfortable can genuinely shift their whole day.
How He Makes His Clients Feel:
I always remind people that confidence shows before anything else does. Hair should support who you already are—it shouldn’t feel like a mask. And, honestly, when someone feels comfortable being themselves, that’s always when they look the best.
LOS ANGELES, CA – MARCH 15: Quen Blackwell attends 2026 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Hosted By Mark Guiducci Arrivals at LACMA on March 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, CA. (Photo by David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images)
The Deeper Meaning Behind His Work:
People open up to hairstylists a lot. There’s a level of trust and care involved in what we do. Sometimes clients just need a space where they can relax, feel heard, laugh, vent, or reconnect with themselves a little bit. I think creating that kind of energy for people is really important, and I don’t take it lightly.
Tracee Ellis Ross for Ebony Power 100