Photography: Courtesy of Rachel Thompson (@byrachellauren)
Meet SalonCentric #ItTakesAPro Team Artist Rachel Thompson (@byrachellauren), a luxury braider, educator, and creator based in Houston, Texas. Known for her mastery of braiding techniques (especially her flawless knotless and stitch braiding techniques), Thompson has built a loyal clientele and a thriving online presence, with over 400K combined followers across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Her engaging content and personalized approach to protective styling have made her a standout voice in the braiding community and a highly sought-after educator.
Thompson's genuine commitment to her clients and students is at the heart of everything she does—from the top-notch products and tools she chooses to the tension-free techniques she teaches in her classes. Whether she’s working one-on-one with clients in her gorgeous studio or inspiring up-and-coming braiders through education, she brings a calming, intentional energy to every part of her craft—expertly blending creativity, precision, and personalized haircare.
Here, we caught up with Thompson to learn more about her journey behind the chair, the go-to products she can’t live without, and what’s next in her ever-evolving career.
Photography: Courtesy of Rachel Thompson (@byrachellauren)
SalonCentric: What’s one fun fact that people might not know about you?
Rachel Thompson: My mom was the first person to teach me how to braid, and there really hasn't been a time in my life where I stopped braiding ever since.
SC: Did you always want to be a hairstylist?
RT: Since I was a young child, I always loved braiding, but I didn't plan to make it my career until later on.
SC: What's one piece of advice or tip you've received that's impacted the way you approach your craft?
RT: Probably just to be myself, be genuine, and you'll attract the right clients for you.
SC: If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring three hair products or tools, what would you bring?
RT: I know you said hair products, but I’d definitely bring sunscreen! I’d also bring Briogeo Don’t Despair, Repair! Deep Conditioning Mask, an antioxidant-rich formula with rosehip oil, B-vitamins, and algae extract that restores essential moisture and hydration to dry, brittle, colored, or over-processed hair.
SC: What does a perfect "day off" look like for you, and how do you recharge your creativity and avoid burnout?
RT: My perfect day would start with a workout, followed by a walk at the park with my boyfriend and my Doberman, Saint, lunch at my favorite restaurant, followed by a massage. Then, I’d head to one of my favorite coffee shops for matcha and a creative/planning session without time constraints. To finish the day, I’d probably have dinner and be in bed by 9 pm! Days like this help me recharge and prevent burnout.
Photography: Courtesy of Rachel Thompson (@byrachellauren)
SC: What's the best and worst haircut, color, or style you've ever had?
RT: My worst haircut was just before I started 7th grade. It was some sort of layered lob. I hated it so much I cried, and I still have evidence of it from school picture day. I never let that one go.
SC: What's one technique or skill that you think every stylist should master, and why?
RT: It would be great if everyone knew how to stitch braid or install a knotless braid with minimal tension.
SC: Do you have any favorite songs or playlists that help get you through long days at the salon?
RT: No songs in particular, but we listen to a lot of Tems and Cleo Sol at the moment.
SC: What's your top "in" and "out" for 2025 when it comes to hair trends?
RT: I don't really have any, because what I generally don't like can look amazing on a particular client.
SC: What's next for you? Are you working on anything exciting personally or professionally at the moment?
RT: In the short term, I'm working on putting my latest class out on YouTube. Generally, I'm always thinking of ways to better my content and allow myself more time for creativity.
Want to discover more stylist tips and beauty industry advice from Rachel? Follow her on Instagram and TikTok @byrachellauren, and don't forget to keep an eye out for upcoming classes and events.
