Patricia Nikole, globally recognized as @paintedhair, has firmly established herself in the professional beauty industry as a renowned colorist, educator, and digital creator. With her signature "Painted Hair" techniques crafting bold, dimensional and seamlessly blended color, Nikole's artistry and innovative approach have inspired millions of stylists and clients alike. Her extensive digital footprint across social platforms coupled with an unwavering dedication to education has positioned her as a leading voice and mentor for the global hairdressing community.
The latest in her journey finds Nikole returning to Redken as their new Global Artistic Ambassador. This marks a profound full-circle moment for the artist whose foundation in color, education, and community began with the brand as a mainstage artist. As Redken’s Global Artistic Ambassador, Nikole will serve as a creative and educational force for the brand, helping to lead color techniques, trend forecasting, and professional co-creation initiatives. Her invaluable behind-the-chair experience and visionary artistic perspective will be instrumental in developing innovative formulas, cutting-edge services, and comprehensive educational programs designed to elevate and empower stylists worldwide.
“This is an absolute honor, but more importantly, it’s a responsibility,” says Nikole. “I have the pleasure of representing the professional community on a global stage, but it’s not about me alone; it’s about elevating our entire industry. Being part of Redken’s incredible network — a community of passionate, forward-thinking pros — is a privilege. Alongside Redken, our goal is simple: we’re here to help careers grow and make clients glow.”
Check out the below for a recent chat with the newly (re-)minted Redken Global Artist.
Redken: For those new to your career journey, could you share your story and how you became “Painted Hair?”
Patricia Nikole: My story really began behind the chair, working with clients every single day, and falling deeply in love with the incredible power of transformation through color. I found my passion in the daily interactions, seeing how a fresh color could completely transform someone's confidence. Painted Hair came about as a natural extension of that—a way to share my techniques and my personal artistic style with a wider community. It grew from a love of sharing, connecting, and inspiring other stylists to push their own boundaries in color artistry. That sharing, that community, that’s what truly defines Painted Hair.
Over the years, I was fortunate enough to build this amazing community around sharing techniques and artistry, and honestly, that’s exactly what brought me to Redken in the first place. And today, I’m thrilled to say, I’m back at Redken. For me, this feels like a full-circle moment, because this is truly where my journey as an artist began to solidify. Redken profoundly shaped how I think about color, the importance of education, and what it truly means to be part of a vibrant, professional community. Coming back now, it genuinely feels like coming home.
R: What drew you back to Redken at this particular moment?"
PN: Returning to Redken, it feels like a destiny, a natural evolution. Redken was instrumental in shaping my early career and my philosophy as an artist. The brand and I, we've both grown and evolved so much since I was last deeply involved. I’ve refined my techniques, and Redken has continued to innovate and lead. Coming back now is about re-engaging with that foundation, but with all the new experiences and insights I’ve gained. It's about a shared vision for the future of professional hair color.
R: You’re returning as a Redken Global Artist. What does that title, that role, mean to you personally and professionally?
PN: Being a Redken Global Artist now, it means everything to me. It's not just a title; it's a commitment to a legacy, a legacy I’m now proud to help shape for future generations. It signifies a profound connection to a brand that truly champions education and empowers stylists worldwide. Professionally, it’s an incredible platform to share my passion, techniques, and vision on a global scale. Personally, it brings tears to my eyes to think about it, especially with my daughter, seeing her connection to what I do, and knowing I’m part of something bigger than myself. It feels incredibly special, incredibly important.
R: You’re known as a “Pro’s Pro.” Can you elaborate on the importance of education and artistry in our industry, especially considering Redken's reputation for education?
PN: I truly believe that the cornerstone of any successful artist is a dedication to being a “Pro’s Pro”—always learning, always refining, always pushing for more. The beauty industry is constantly evolving, and without ongoing education, you risk falling behind. That’s why the importance of artistry and education cannot be overstated. And let’s be real, Redken isn't just a leader in education; it's the number one in education. The resources, the community, the science—it’s all here to empower us to be our absolute best, to master our craft, and to continuously deliver exceptional results for our clients.
R: Looking ahead, what can we expect from Patricia Nikole’s future with Redken? What does that co-creation, innovation, and trend development look like?
PN: So, what does Patricia Nikole’s future with Redken look like? It’s all about co-creation, innovation, and working closely within the labs and on trend development. I’m here to roll up my sleeves and collaborate with the Redken team to bring new, exciting concepts to life. I envision working on new product developments, contributing to cutting-edge formulations, and helping to predict and shape future hair trends. It’s about leveraging my experience behind the chair and my artistic eye to create tools and techniques that truly serve the stylist."
R: How do you plan to upskill the artist team and support stylists through this innovation, co-creating techniques, and developing trends with Redken?
PN: My goal is to be a direct conduit between the field and the brand. I want to take what I learn from Redken's innovations and translate that into actionable, inspiring education for stylists. This means creating content, hosting workshops, and demonstrating new techniques that incorporate Redken’s latest advancements. It’s about empowering every stylist to feel confident in using these tools to elevate their own artistry and client experience. We'll be developing techniques that are both artistic and practical, always with the aim of helping stylists grow their skills and their business.
R: How are we going to reinforce the mentality that Pros still continue to be #1 at Redken?
PN: By consistently listening, by providing unparalleled education, and by developing products that meet their real-world needs. Redken has always understood that the professional stylist is at the heart of everything. We are going to reinforce, louder than ever, the mentality that Pros still continue to be our #1 at Redken—you are at the heart of everything we do. This means continued investment in high-quality professional-only products, innovative tools, and educational platforms that directly benefit the stylist’s craft and business. It’s about building a partnership where stylists feel valued, supported, and truly empowered.
R: In your expert opinion, what makes Redken formulas different, or 'better than the rest', when compared to other brands in the market?
PN: What truly makes Redken formulas different – better than the rest, in my opinion – is the science behind them. It’s not just about mixing colors; it’s about advanced technology, rigorous research and development, and a deep understanding of hair science. The consistency, the predictability, the way they preserve hair integrity while delivering stunning results – it’s unparalleled. Redken products are designed to perform at the highest professional level, allowing us to confidently create beautiful, healthy-looking hair every time.