In this episode, Hayley Mears chats with UK-based stylist, educator, and salon owner Luke Benson, who joins the podcast fresh off a 24-hour flight to Australia for Keune’s 30th anniversary event. Despite jet lag and timezone chaos, Luke dives into a high-energy, no-holds-barred conversation about the state of the hair industry, both in the UK and globally.

With over 21 years in hairdressing, Luke has carved out a unique path—bridging the worlds of salon ownership, editorial styling, education, and celebrity grooming. A former London Hairdresser of the Year, Luke has built a career that spans award stages, international platforms, and red carpets.

Luke opens up about how a bleach mishap in his teens sparked his interest in the salon space, eventually leading him to train under Terry Calvert at Clipso. From there, his career included time at HOB and stints across high-end salons in London, before launching into session styling full-time. His resume includes work with Billie Eilish, Liam Payne, Joe Jonas, Zayn Malik, and Michelle Keegan, along with editorials for Vogue, GQ, Vanity Fair, Elle, and brands like Dior, Paul Smith, Harrods, and Hugo Boss.

He also discusses:

• The reality of being a Global Ambassador for Keune, prepping nine models for a major show in Sydney.
• The pressure (and joy) of building a salon brand while still managing red carpet work and education.
• His views on freelance models and the VAT system hitting UK salons hard.
• Why he’s focused on employing his staff instead of going hybrid—and what that means for the culture of his salon.
• Navigating AI in the industry—when it’s a tool for growth vs. when it’s a shortcut.
• The generational shift in education: why classic cutting might be missing from today’s trend-focused training.
• Using Instagram as a hiring and booking tool, and how marketing defines your client base before they walk in the door.

Known for his beauty-focused yet fashion-forward style, Luke balances technical excellence with sharp creative direction. He shares what it’s like to go from hairdressing royalty to "starting again" in the editorial world—where his awards meant little and results meant everything.

As he continues to grow “Brand Luke,” his goal is to build something sustainable—not just for himself, but for the next generation of stylists. With an eye on mentorship, education, and elevating the perception of hairdressing as a career, this episode is a goldmine for anyone in the industry looking to grow creatively and commercially.

🎧 Listen now to hear:

• How Luke transitioned from apprentice to editorial powerhouse
• The economics of owning a salon in the UK right now
• His advice for young hairdressers in a social-first world
• Where he thinks the future of the industry is heading

🔗 Connect with Luke:

• Instagram:
  • @lukebensonsalon
  • @lukebensoncreative
  • @keunehaircosmetics
• Website: https://www.lukebensonsalon.com/