With over 17 years of experience behind the chair, Guslene Bubak has built a reputation for excellence in haircare, scalp health, and client service. As the owner of The Salon Suite in Brooklyn, New York, and the founder of the non-profit Terre Rouge Project, she has dedicated her career to not only helping clients look and feel their best but also making a meaningful impact in the community.
In this interview, Guslene shares her insights on textured hair, her favorite techniques, and what Black hair means to her. Her story is a testament to the power of following your passion and uplifting others along the way.
What inspired you to join the beauty industry?
“I’ve always been drawn to the beauty industry because it’s about more than just making people look good—it’s about helping them feel good from the inside out. My passion grew deeper when I realized how many people struggle with scalp issues like dandruff, oiliness, and irritation, and how few stylists have the tools or knowledge to address these concerns properly. My goal is to ensure that clients leave not only with great hair but also with healthier, happier scalps.”
What are your top 3 must-have clean beauty products in the salon?
“I’m very particular about the products I use, especially when it comes to scalp health. Here are my top three must-haves for their effectiveness and clean formulations:
Oway Purifying Hair Bath for Dandruff (Oily and Dry Scalps): I love Oway’s line of purifying shampoos. The Sebum Balancing Hair Bath is perfect for oily scalps, balancing oil production without stripping the scalp. For clients dealing with dandruff, the Purifying Hair Bath for Dandruff is highly effective, whether their scalp is dry or oily. It helps clarify the scalp while maintaining moisture balance.
ARETÉ Micro-Exfoliating Scalp Treatment Mask: This is my go-to product for exfoliating the scalp before a Japanese Head Spa service. I mix it with soothing herbs to create a deeply exfoliating experience that prepares the scalp for treatment. It’s excellent for removing dead skin cells, unclogging hair follicles, and promoting circulation.
Vichy DERCOS: This is my go-to for clients with scalp conditions like psoriasis or dermatitis. It’s a proven solution for reducing inflammation and soothing irritated scalps.
I love combining these innovative products with proven techniques to provide my clients with the best results.”
What are your favorite techniques?
“One of my signature services is the Rejuvascalp System Treatment, a deep cleansing experience for the scalp—think of it as a facial, but for your scalp. What sets this treatment apart is its ability to specifically target scalp disorders like psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and itchiness. I customize each treatment by combining medical expertise with herbal remedies to promote long-term scalp health, leaving the scalp balanced, rejuvenated, and set for healthier hair growth.
By integrating advanced technology and therapeutic techniques like the Japanese Head Spa, this treatment offers both immediate relief and long-lasting benefits.”
What is your advice for aspiring stylists?
“To aspiring stylists, I’d say stay curious and never stop learning. There’s so much more to hair care than just styling—it’s vital to understand the foundation of scalp health, as many hair issues are linked to scalp conditions. Whether you’re working with oily scalps, dandruff, or dryness, addressing the root cause is key.
Take the time to educate yourself through certifications, hands-on practice, or mentorship from experienced professionals. The products and techniques you choose will significantly impact your client’s hair health, so don’t be afraid to experiment and try new treatments.
Lastly, always listen to your clients. Each person’s scalp and hair are unique, and personalized care is essential to building lasting relationships and achieving the best results.”
What does Black hair represent to you, beyond beauty?
“Black hair is more than a style it’s a symbol of identity, resilience, and cultural heritage. It tells a story of who we are and where we come from, carrying the weight of our ancestors’ struggles and triumphs. Beyond beauty, Black hair is a form of self-expression and empowerment. It represents freedom, the freedom to wear it natural, styled, braided, or however we choose, without apology. For me, working with Black hair is a privilege because it allows me to honor that legacy while helping clients embrace the full spectrum of their beauty.”
How do you use your platform to uplift and educate your community?
“I use my platform to shine a light on the importance of scalp health, especially within the Black community, where hair care is deeply intertwined with our culture and identity. Through my work with the RejuvaScalp System, I aim to educate stylists and clients about the connection between scalp health and hair growth. I also teach fellow stylists how to recognize and treat scalp disorders that disproportionately affect our community, such as seborrheic dermatitis. By sharing knowledge and providing tools, I empower others to prioritize scalp health while celebrating the beauty and uniqueness of Black hair.”
What advice would you give to other Black stylists looking to grow their business or clientele?
“Focus on a niche where you can become an expert—whether it’s natural hair, scalp care, or styling. Invest in education, build genuine connections with clients, and prioritize creating a space where people feel valued and cared for. Expertise combined with trust will grow your business.”
How does your work empower and uplift your clients?
“My work empowers clients by restoring confidence and promoting a deeper understanding of their scalp and hair. Many clients come to me feeling frustrated or ashamed about scalp conditions or hair loss, but through education and effective treatments, I help them see that these issues are treatable. By addressing the root causes of their concerns and providing tailored solutions, I show them that they can reclaim control of their hair and scalp health. It’s about more than hair it’s about helping them feel beautiful, confident, and whole from the inside out.”
What’s one message you’d like to share about Black hair for Black History Month?
“Black hair is a crown it’s a testament to our history, creativity, and resilience. For too long, our hair has been policed, misunderstood, and stigmatized, but it’s also been a source of power and pride. Black hair is versatile, dynamic, and unapologetically bold. For Black History Month, I want to remind everyone to celebrate the beauty of Black hair in all its forms and to honor the artistry and traditions passed down through generations. Let’s continue to embrace our hair with pride and teach the next generation to do the same. Our hair is not just beautiful it’s revolutionary.”
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