At the Hair Design Centre, we’re always looking for the best products to support our students and clients. That’s why we’re excited to announce that we are now bringing in Quannessence Skincare—an exceptional, holistic brand that is proudly Canadian and rooted in the Maritimes.

Why Quannessence?

Quannessence Skincare, based in Prince Edward Island, is dedicated to creating high-quality, science-backed formulations using natural and holistic ingredients. This brand aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing top-tier education and services in esthetics, ensuring our students learn with products that reflect the highest industry standards.

Holistic Beauty with Local Roots

What sets Quannessence apart is its focus on holistic skincare—blending the power of nature with advanced skincare science. Their products are formulated to nourish, heal, and restore skin health, promoting balance from within. By incorporating high-quality botanicals and marine-based ingredients from the Maritimes, they celebrate the natural beauty of our region while delivering outstanding results.

A New Standard for Skincare Education

As we step into 2025, we’re taking a moment to reflect on the incredible journey that 2024 has been for the Hair Design Centre. From student successes to exciting community collaborations, it’s been a year filled with growth, creativity, and achievement.

Celebrating Student Success

Our students continued to shine throughout 2024, demonstrating exceptional talent and dedication. Whether it was mastering advanced hair and esthetic techniques, exploring the art of makeup, or embracing the creativity of nail artistry, our classrooms were buzzing with energy and innovation.

We’re especially proud of the Class of 2024 graduates, who have launched their careers in the beauty industry with confidence. Their accomplishments remind us why we do what we do: to empower individuals to turn their passions into fulfilling careers.

Hands-On Experiences: Showcasing Talent and Making a Difference

At the Hair Design Centre, our students don’t just learn; they thrive. In 2024, they embraced opportunities to participate in events that challenged their skills, celebrated their artistry, and allowed them to make a meaningful impact.

• Shave for the Brave: Our students joined Young Adult Cancer Canada’s largest fundraiser, offering haircuts to participants who either shaved their heads with no guard or donated at least 12 inches of hair. This heartfelt event raised funds and support for young adults dealing with cancer, demonstrating the power of community and compassion.
• Independent Living Nova Scotia Partnership: Through our collaboration with Independent Living Nova Scotia (ILNS), students provided free haircuts and styles to individuals preparing to enter the workforce. By helping people look and feel their best, our students empowered individuals on their journey toward employment and independence.
• A Different Stage of Mind: Partnering with the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia, our students provided hairstyling and makeup for performers in this inspiring concert series. Artists shared their mental health stories through music, raising awareness for a vital cause and reminding us of the connection between beauty and confidence.
• Pump Couture Fashion Show: For the second year, our students supported Diabetes Canada’s inclusive runway event, styling hair and makeup for models living with diabetes. One of our own students even strutted the runway, showcasing not just their skills but their spirit of inclusivity and empowerment.
• NSCAD Fashion Show: This collaboration with NSCAD University celebrated creativity in every form. Our students brought student designers’ visions to life, styling hair and makeup for models in a fast-paced, fashion-forward environment. It was a fusion of beauty and artistry that highlighted the potential of collaborative innovation.
• Smile and Shine Pageant: A highlight of the year, our students provided hair and makeup services for this uplifting event, which celebrates individuality and confidence. We’re looking forward to continuing our partnership with Smile and Shine in the future.

At the Hair Design Centre, we are proud to have passionate and talented instructors who inspire our students every day. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce Kerry, one of our incredible nail artistry instructors. With years of experience, an innovative teaching style, and a love for creativity, Kerry’s journey in the beauty industry is nothing short of inspiring. Read on to learn more about her story and insights in this Q&A.

At the Hair Design Centre, we are proud to show our appreciation for the sacrifices made by Canadian military members and their families. As a gesture of gratitude, we are excited to announce a 10% tuition discount for all new or returning students who are family members of Canadian military personnel.

This offer is available to those who present a valid CFOne card as proof of their connection to the military community. Whether you're starting your journey in the beauty industry or continuing your education, we want to support your goals and success.

We understand the unique challenges that military families face, and we hope this discount helps make your education more accessible. We invite you to join our community of passionate students and professionals as you pursue a rewarding career in the beauty industry.

How to Apply: Present your CFOne card during enrollment to redeem this offer. Our admissions team will be happy to assist with any questions you may have.

Thank you to all the brave men and women in the Canadian Armed Forces, and to their families, for your dedication and service. We look forward to welcoming you to the Hair Design Centre!

Are you passionate about beauty, skincare, and helping others feel their best? Have you ever considered a career in medical esthetics but aren’t sure where to start? If you’re ready to dive into an exciting and rewarding profession, our Esthetics Program could be the perfect first step on your journey to becoming a medical esthetician.

Why Start with an Esthetics Program?

Medical esthetics is a growing field that blends beauty, science, and health. It includes advanced skincare treatments, laser therapy, cosmetic injectables, and more. However, before you can specialize in medical esthetics, it’s essential to build a strong foundation in traditional esthetics.

Our Esthetics Program provides just that: a comprehensive education in skincare, makeup artistry, nail care, body treatments, and more. You’ll not only learn about the science behind skin health but also gain hands-on experience in professional-grade treatments like facials, peels, and waxing. This foundational knowledge is key to moving into the advanced techniques used in medical esthetics.

Gain Hands-On Experience

One of the major benefits of enrolling in our esthetics program is the hands-on training you’ll receive. You’ll work with real clients under the guidance of experienced instructors, allowing you to build confidence and competence in a professional setting. These experiences will help you refine your skills and prepare for more advanced treatments in the medical esthetics world.

At Hair Design Centre (HDC), we’ve always strived to be a leader in cosmetology education, and we’re thrilled to share some exciting news! We’ve recently been recognized as one of the best beauty and cosmetology schools in Canada by CourseCompare, a premier online resource for educational rankings and reviews. This accolade is a testament to our unwavering commitment to providing top-notch education and empowering our students to succeed in the beauty industry.

A Legacy of Excellence

For years, HDC has been a beacon of excellence in the beauty industry, offering a diverse range of programs that cater to aspiring hairstylists, estheticians, makeup artists, and more. Our curriculum is designed to combine creativity with hands-on training, ensuring that our graduates are not only skilled professionals but also innovative artists who can thrive in a competitive industry.

Why We Stand Out

So, what makes Hair Design Centre one of the best? Here are a few reasons:

• Comprehensive Programs: Our programs cover everything from the basics to advanced techniques, providing students with a well-rounded education. Whether you’re interested in hair design, esthetics, nail artistry, lash technology or makeup artistry, we’ve got you covered.

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Are you ready to step into the vibrant world of cosmetology and unleash your creativity? Look no further than The Hair Design Centre! We're thrilled to announce our upcoming Career Day:

May 28, 2024

9:30 am to 4:30 pm

HDC 278 Lacewood Dr. Halifax

Why Attend?

Whether you're a current student, a recent graduate, or someone intrigued by the allure of cosmetology, this event is designed with you in mind. Here's why you won't want to miss it:

1. Explore Diverse Career Paths: Cosmetology is a multifaceted industry. Whether you're passionate about hair styling, makeup artistry, esthetics, or salon management, there's a niche for you. Discover which path resonates with your interests and aspirations.

2. Connect with Industry Professionals: Rub elbows with seasoned professionals who are shaping the landscape of the cosmetology world. This is your chance to forge connections, glean insights from their experiences, and tap into valuable advice that could steer your career in the right direction.

3. Seize Career Opportunities: Ready to turn your passion for beauty into a fulfilling career? Career Day is your gateway to exploring job openings and internships offered by leading salons and spas. Take the first step towards realizing your professional goals by connecting with potential employers.

As you embark on your journey into the captivating world of beauty, I want to extend a warm welcome and share some insights to inspire and guide you along the way. Whether you’re drawn to the artistry of eyelashes or the creativity of artificial nails, know that you are stepping into a field that celebrates individuality, creativity, and self-expression.

Embrace Creativity:

As future professionals in the beauty industry, you have the unique opportunity to unleash your creativity and transform the canvas of eyelashes and nails into works of art. Experiment with different styles, techniques, and trends to develop your signature aesthetic and showcase your talent. Allow your imagination to soar and let your creativity be your guide as you embark on this exciting journey.

Prioritize Education:

In a field as dynamic and ever-evolving as beauty, continuous education is key to staying informed about the latest trends, techniques, and products. Invest in your education by enrolling in reputable training programs, attending workshops, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals. Embrace every learning opportunity as a chance to refine your skills and expand your knowledge base.

Which is Right for You?

The world of beauty and personal care is large, presenting a multitude of career options to anyone who is passionate about helping others look and feel their best. If you're considering a beauty education in Halifax, the Hair Design Centre is a prominent institution that offers comprehensive programs in both hair and esthetics. But how do you decide between the two? Let’s dive deep into the differences and nuances of each program to help guide your decision.

Hair Program Highlights

1. Cutting and Coloring: The hair program dives deeply into both fundamental and advanced cutting and coloring techniques. This includes trendy coloring methods like foiling and balayage.

2. Men’s Hair: An intriguing aspect of the program is its focus on men's hairstyling. You'll explore the world of modern barbering, mastering everything from fades to pompadours.

3. Chemical Services and Treatments: Delve into chemical treatments like perming and relaxing, as well as haircare best practices to ensure healthy tresses.

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Hair color can be one of the most transformative beauty services available. It has the power to change your look, enhance facial features and natural coloring, and is the ultimate confidence boost. However, when it comes to coloring one’s hair, there are lots of common questions we hear. Let’s address some of the most common inquiries and emphasize the significance of consulting a professional, well-trained hairstylist.

1. What's the difference between permanent and semi-permanent hair color?

Permanent Hair Color: This type of color alters the natural hair pigment and requires growth or a color-corrective service to be removed. It can cover gray hair efficiently and offers long-lasting results. It’s perfect for those looking for a major change or to cover up grays.

Semi and Demi-Permanent Hair Color: This color sits on the hair's outer layer and gradually fades with washes. It’s great for first-timers, those looking to experiment with different shades, or someone wanting a low-commitment change.

2. Can I go from jet black to platinum blonde in one session?

Realistically, such a drastic change requires multiple sessions to maintain hair health and achieve the desired tone. Pushing the hair to lighten dramatically in one session can lead to severe damage and breakage. This is a perfect example of where professional guidance is crucial.

Beauty may be more than skin deep, but the health and appearance of the skin can profoundly affect a person's self-esteem and confidence. That's where estheticians come into play, and for those aiming high in this field, especially with a medical/clinical inclination, the Esthetics Program at the Hair Design Centre in Halifax is the place to start.

The HDC Halifax aesthetics program is 1500 hours over the course of 10 months. The program begins in a traditional classroom setting and transitions into our on-site, fully functional spa for practical, hands-on esthetics training. Esthetics students are trained in the fundamentals of facial services, hair removal, makeup techniques, nail services and enhancements, and then progress to infection control, anatomy, chemistry and skin sciences. Our program is so robust that 9 out of 10 graduates secure employment in the industry within a month of graduating.

The Pathway to Medical/Clinical Esthetics

Medical estheticians are the elite members of the beauty industry, collaborating with dermatologists and plastic surgeons, providing skin treatments before and after surgical procedures, and giving specialized treatments to patients with skin problems. The Esthetics Program at Hair Design Centre not only sets the foundation for those looking to venture into the medical side of esthetics but also equips students with comprehensive skills for various beauty treatments.

At Hair Design Centre Halifax, we believe that a cosmetology career is a perfect choice for anyone who is passionate about beauty, creativity, and helping people feel good about themselves. Our programs offer comprehensive training that prepare our students for success in the cosmetology industry. Let's explore some of the reasons why you should choose a career in cosmetology and how our cosmetology school can help you achieve your goals.

Flexibility

A career in cosmetology offers flexibility that is unparalleled in other industries. This flexibility makes it an ideal career choice for those who desire a work-life balance. Many cosmetologists work part-time, allowing them to balance their personal and professional lives effectively and spend more time with their families. Additionally, cosmetologists can work varied hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the schedules of their clients and their own schedule.

Job Satisfaction

As a cosmetologist, you have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of your clients. This means that a career in cosmetology can be incredibly rewarding, both personally and professionally. You help boost your clients’ confidence and self-esteem by enhancing their physical appearance. This can be especially rewarding when working with clients who are going through difficult times, such as cancer patients, who may have lost their hair due to chemotherapy.

The Hair Design Centre gives students the opportunity to learn practical skills from a team of great educators. The skills you learn here will be applied on real clients to give a real salon experience.

Our team of educators come from extensive experience in the field of esthetics and are always willing to lend a helping hand when you need it. The love and passion for the health and beauty industry we share is what motivates us to go above and beyond to give you, as students the same drive and passion for a wonderful career ahead.

Like anything starting a new chapter in your life can be both terrifying and exciting. Learning new skills and putting them to test can be intimidating, that’s why the Hair Design Centre is structured so students can build their confidence in the classroom through theory, safety procedures, and working with each other before hitting the floor and working with clients.

That being said, after your 10 weeks in the classroom, it’s time to hit the floor! On the floor you will receive much experience on actual clients. Although, we have a lovely clientele who enjoy coming in to allow you, as students to learn, we recommend inviting your friends and family in for services to help with the first-time jitters. At HDC we also have a business-building program in place so students can learn the importance of creating and maintaining a clientele. On the spa floor you will have the chance to perform all aspects of esthetics on clients before you head out into the world to do what you love to do!

BEFORE BEGINNING CLASSES

1. Send in high school or post-secondary transcript. Transcripts can be mailed, faxed, emailed or dropped off in person.

2. Pay your registration fee to secure your seat. Registration for Hair Design and Esthetics is $300.00. Registration for Makeup Artistry and Lash Technician is $140.00. This amount is deducted from the total tuition and is non-refundable. While there is no due date for the registration fee, seats are reserved on a first come first serve basis. Given that we fill up with each intake, it is strongly encouraged to pay your registration fee as soon as possible.

3. Secure funding. Please refer to HDC Student Loan Quick Guide for assistance if needed.

4. Make arrangements in your personal life for your new journey. Examples: adjust work schedules, research child care options, familiarize yourself with public transit, etc.

5. Ensure payments are received on or before the first day of class.

6. Apply for the HDC Bursary Program.

7. School supplies. All that is required is a 3” binder, paper, pens and highlighters. All other necessary equipment is included in your student kit.