Carlos Rojas x Matrix SoColor Barista Blends Collection 

Photography: Courtesy of Matrix



Dallas-based colorist Carlos Rojas (@colorbycarlos) just hard-launched his relationship with Matrix—officially debuting as the brand’s new Global Ambassador on Instagram. Now, he’s unveiling his first campaign featuring the recently debuted Matrix SoColor Barista Blends collection.

Here, Rojas spills the tea on why he decided to partner with Matrix, how he got over his fear of switching color lines, and which Matrix squad member is his new wing woman. 

Matrix Called, Carlos Answered 

Rojas wasn’t exactly waiting by the phone, but he was feeling ready to “trade up” his go-to color line when Matrix approached him with the opportunity for a new partnership. “I honestly felt that, after using Matrix’s products, they left the hair in better condition, so that’s what inspired me to continue talking,” he says. “It’s such a big deal to switch [color lines], so I was only going to do it for someone really special.”  

Breakups Are Hard, But SoColor Makes It Easy 

“There’s a fine line between opaque, shoe polish-like coverage and still seeing gray hair in the mirror after a client spends three to four hours in the salon,” says Rojas. Matrix’s SoColor strikes the perfect balance, delivering multidimensional color, unbeatable shine, and 100% gray coverage with true-to-tone results. The pre-bonded formula helps protect the hair’s inner structure, delivering blended color results with high shine and long-lasting results.

The best part? SoColor’s larger three-ounce tube comes with a lower price point than other leading brands, which can help boost your bottom line. Go ahead, give yourself a well-deserved raise or reinvest the savings into your salon. Want to find how much you can bank by making the switch? Head to Matrix’s SoColor Calculator to calculate how much you could be keeping in your pocket each year by making the switch.  

Making the Switch to SoColor 

“My work behind the chair is super important to me and my clients aren’t guinea pigs—they trust me to make the right decision for them,” Rojas explains. If you’re nervous about making the change to SoColor, like Rojas was, he recommends ordering a few shades and experimenting on real hair that gets swept up after a cut.

“The thing that’s brought me success [in my career] is being fearless,” he says. “The moment I want to stay in my comfort zone and start limiting myself, I stop growing artistically and financially.” In short, take the leap, but do it in a way that works best for you. 

Tips for a Smooth SoColor Transition

Need someone to help guide your SoColor transition? The Matrix team and education network are here to make the process as simple and seamless as possible, whether you prefer to shop online or at a SalonCentric store near you. 

Deep Dive Into the World of Matrix 

Education is key when switching to a new color line! Fortunately, Matrix offers expert-led educational resources to boost your confidence and knowledge—like the new YouTube series created by Rojas and fellow Matrix Global Brand Ambassador Sharon Spellman (@sharon.simplyinsane). “Sharon is a real pistol!” says Rojas.

To check out this series and more, head to Matrix’s YouTube and check SalonCentric’s Classes & Events page regularly for the latest in-person and digital education classes

Check Out the Latest Collection: SoColor Barista Blends 

“When you think of chocolate, it’s usually warm. These new shades are more neutral, almost cool—like iced coffee,” says Rojas. “You can customize these colors in a way that keeps clients looking like themselves, but with an added glow.” His go-to shade from the new collection? “N (neutral) spiked with a little bit of M (mocha).” 

Next, discover Matrix’s Low-Key Color Technique, the quiet luxury trend taking over runways and making waves in salons across the industry: Why Low-Key Color Is the Express Service That Pays Off.