Photography: Courtesy of Lazhane Hightower/@hairbynay247
When it comes to blending natural haircare with holistic health, SalonCentric #ItTakesAPro Team Artist Lazhane Hightower (@hairbynay247) is in a league of her own. This Florida-based cosmetologist, holistic trichologist, and educator has dedicated her career to transforming natural haircare—starting at the root. With a deep understanding of scalp health and a passion for education, Hightower goes beyond styling to help clients achieve healthy hair from the inside out. “I’m not just about quick fixes,” she says. “I want to guide people on a journey to lasting hair health and confidence.”
Hightower’s expertise, dedication, and charisma have earned her a loyal following of over 347K people on Instagram and 399K on TikTok. Whether she’s collaborating with top brands or breaking down the science of hair on social media, her mission remains the same: to empower people with the knowledge they need to transform their hair.
Ahead, learn more about this beauty powerhouse, including her go-to products, how she balances creativity with business, and the question she gets asked most as a holistic trichologist.
SalonCentric: What’s one fun fact that people might not know about you?
Lazhane Hightower: I’m the oldest grandchild out of 16 granddaughters and three grandsons. I also have a 5-year-old daughter and I love checking off bucket list adventures. One of my most unforgettable experiences was traveling to Alaska, where I walked across a frozen river and climbed a frozen waterfall. It was such a surreal and humbling experience.
SC: What is trichology and how does it set you apart in your profession?
LH: Trichology is the study of hair and scalp. This sets me apart as I offer not only hairstyling but a comprehensive experience, educating clients on what they may be experiencing and what the next steps should be on their healthy hair journey.
SC: Did you always want to pursue a career as a holistic trichologist and cosmetologist? Is there a specific moment that solidified this path for you?
LH: I’ve always loved hair but my journey into holistic trichology really started when I noticed that almost all of my clients were dealing with some form of hair loss. It was affecting not just their confidence but also their overall hair health and how their hairstyles turned out. That’s when I realized that styling alone wasn’t enough. I wanted to help people actually heal and restore their hair—not just make it look good for the moment.
SC: How has incorporating holistic trichology changed the way you approach your craft? Has it had a big impact on your artistry?
LH: It has completely changed the way I see haircare. Now, I focus on everything from scalp health to lifestyle, diet, and stress because it all plays a role in hair growth. Instead of just treating the symptoms, I help my clients figure out what’s actually causing their hair concerns so that we can work toward real, lasting solutions. It’s so rewarding to see the transformation, however, I always remind my clients that it takes teamwork. I can guide them in the right direction but they have to be willing to do their part as well.
SC: If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring three hair products or tools, what would you bring?
LH: First, I’d bring a spray bottle with water because moisture is key, especially in the sun. Second, I’d pack amika Hydro Rush Intense Moisture Leave-In Conditioner to keep my hair hydrated and protected. And lastly, I’d bring a hooded dryer with a cool mist setting to lock in moisture and prevent my hair from drying out.
Photography: Courtesy of Lazhane Hightower/@hairbynay247
SC: What does a perfect day off look like for you, and how do you recharge your creativity and avoid burnout?
LH: A perfect day off starts with sleeping in and a slow morning with a good brunch, a nail appointment, and a massage. I love solo spa days and spending time outdoors, whether it’s walking around Winter Park or just soaking up some fresh air. I also like to take the time to catch up on little things, create content, and check in on my socials. When I really need to recharge, I step away from hair completely. Reading, traveling, and listening to music always help me reset and come back feeling inspired.
SC: Which shampoo and conditioner are you using most on your clients right now?
LH: Right now, I’m using amika’s Hydro Rush line and Matrix’s Instacure line the most. Hydro Rush is amazing for clients who struggle with dryness because it provides deep hydration without making the hair feel heavy. Matrix’s Instacure range is great for strengthening and restoring weak or damaged hair. Together, they create the perfect balance of moisture and repair, which is exactly what most of my clients need.
SC: As a holistic trichologist, what’s the question you get asked most by your clients?
LH: The number one question I get asked is, “Why is my hair thinning and will it grow back?” Most people don’t realize that hair loss isn’t just a scalp issue. It’s often connected to diet, stress, hormones, and even underlying health conditions. I always tell my clients that addressing hair loss means looking at the bigger picture. I encourage them to check in with their doctor, dermatologist, or dietitian because hair health starts from within.
Photography: Courtesy of Lazhane Hightower/@hairbynay247
SC: If someone was describing your impact on the industry 10 years from now, what would you want them to say?
LH: I’d love for people to say that I helped change the way we care for natural hair by bringing together beauty and holistic health. I want clients with textured hair to know that high-quality professional products aren’t just for naturally straight hair.
We don’t have to rely on drugstore brands when there are salon products that work just as well, if not better, for curly and coily hair. I also want to be remembered for educating and empowering both clients and stylists so that they can truly heal hair, not just style it. More than anything, I want people to say that I made them feel confident, seen, and cared for.
SC: What’s your top “in” and “out” for 2025 when it comes to natural hair trends?
LH: Scalp care is definitely in. More people are realizing that healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, so treatments like scalp detoxes, customized oil treatments, and customized regimens will be a big focus. Over-manipulation and excessive product layering are out. Hair thrives when we keep it simple and intentional with high-quality products that actually work instead of just piling on a bunch of stuff without clarifying.
SC: What’s your current favorite service for clients struggling with scalp issues and/or hair thinning?
LH: My go-to service is the Scalp Detox & Restoration Treatment. It includes a deep cleanse to remove buildup, a relaxing scalp massage to increase blood flow, and micro-mist hydration to encourage hair growth. Keeping the scalp clean is so important because product buildup and clogged follicles can suffocate hair strands, leading to shedding, irritation, and slow growth. This service helps reset the scalp so hair can grow in a healthy environment. It’s a game-changer for anyone dealing with dandruff, inflammation, or early signs of thinning.
SC: What’s next for you? Are you working on anything exciting personally or professionally at the moment?
LH: Yes! I’m expanding my brand with HBN Studios, where I’ll be mentoring and training stylists in holistic haircare and scalp health. I’m also developing customized scalp care treatments so that my clients can maintain healthy hair at home. Personally, I’m focused on finding more balance in my life so I can continue growing without burning out.
I'll also be speaking on a panel at Premiere Orlando this year, supporting the next generation of beauty pros, which is an exciting full-circle moment for me. The panel is called “The Starting Line: Choosing Your Path” (sponsored by My Salon Suite), and I’ll be sharing my journey, how I found my niche, and what entrepreneurship really looks like. Big things are definitely coming in 2025 and beyond!
From her science-led approach to her passion for educating and empowering others, Lazhane Hightower is redefining what it means to achieve holistic hair health from the inside out.
Keep up with her on social media @hairbynay247 for updates on upcoming in-person classes and exclusive, hands-on training opportunities to learn advanced techniques, gain expert insights, and build the confidence to elevate your craft.
