Salons and colourists from across the UK and Ireland have been named as semi-finalists in the L’Oréal Colour Trophy, as the world’s longest-running live hairdressing competition marks its 70th anniversary.
Taking place across eight regional locations throughout April, the semi-finals will see finalists compete live in front of industry judges and audiences, with those progressing to the national final announced on the night.
L’Oréal Colour Trophy Award semi-finalists have been selected from across Northern Ireland, Scotland, North Eastern, North Western, Western, Eastern, Southern and London regions, showcasing the breadth of emerging and established colour talent across the UK and Ireland.
L’Oréal Colour Trophy STAR Award semi-finalists have also been announced, recognising the next generation of rising talent within the industry.
Charlotte Mensah, Hair Lounge & L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 Judge, said: “I’m looking for that superstar who’s pushing boundaries, who’s forward thinking, who’s going to show us the best colour out there right now.”
Angie Dromgoole, Zeba Hairdressing, L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 Judge, said: “Lots of excitement out there, so I think we’re going to see some bigger looks, something different.”
Dylan Bradshaw, Dylan Bradshaw Dublin, L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 Judge, said: “A lot of people were trying new things, which for me is the most exciting part.”
Rob Eaton, Owner of Russell Eaton Hair Salons, L’Oréal Professionnel Hair Artist & L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 judge, said: “The L’Oréal Colour Trophy has been celebrating the best colourists in the UK and Ireland for 70 years. It has been part of my life and career for nearly three decades, from watching as a teenager to winning, and now returning as a judge in its 70th year.
It’s always been about more than just beautiful hair. It’s about craft, creativity and community, and giving the next generation the chance to push the boundaries.”
Cos Sakkas, TONI&GUY Global Creative Director & L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 judge, said: “Judging the L’Oréal Colour Trophy is really special. You’ve got the young, up-and-coming stars of the industry. They’re all putting their passion and inspiration on the line for industry leaders to judge.”
On the night, guests will experience a live artistic and educational showcase led by industry icon Robert Eaton of Russell Eaton Hair, alongside model presentations from the regional semi-finalists, and the announcement of the stylists progressing to the national final.
The regional heats form part of a nationwide tour marking the L’Oréal Colour Trophy’s 70th anniversary, and its return to regional stages for the first time since 2019. This year’s programme spans eight cities across the UK and Northern Ireland, including Belfast, Glasgow, Leeds, Manchester, Bristol, St Albans, Brighton and London, before a national final brings the country’s top colourists together to compete for the overall title.
For more information on L’Oréal Colour Trophy 2026 and to follow talent through the competition, visit https://www.lorealcolourtrophy.com/