Andrew Barton has never been one to play it safe. Known for his game-changing creativity, bold ideas and the way he’s shaped British hairdressing, he’s marking 40 years in the industry. We hope you’re not expecting a nostalgic trip down memory lane… Andrew’s not slowing down; he’s powering forward.
This milestone isn’t about looking back, it’s about what comes next. Still brimming with passion and fresh ideas, he’s pushing the boundaries of what hairdressing can be, sparking new collaborations, and mentoring the next generation of hair professionals.
“Every project I take on is fueled by what I’ve learned, but it’s never about repeating the past. My experience doesn’t hold me back – it pushes me forward. It gives me the confidence to try new things, to explore new formats, and to help others do the same,” says Andrew. “The more I’ve achieved, the more I want to give back. Supporting the next generation is one of the most important things I can do as a hairdresser today.”
From his iconic role as the resident hair expert on 10 Years Younger to winning accolades such as British Hairdresser of the Year and British Hair Icon, Andrew’s reputation is built not only on skill but on his ability to continuously evolve. His work bridges fashion, beauty, art, and culture – always with an eye on what’s possible, not just what’s been done before.
A man on many roles
Among his many current roles, Andrew is:
· UK Cut & Style Artist for Keune, helping shape the brand’s education and event programmes.
· Creative Director at Racoon International, where he leads innovation across hair extension artistry and education.
· Group Brand Lead at Bloom Salons, working across locations in Aberdeen, Glasgow, and The House of Keune by Bloom in London – where he also works with clients, including celebrity names.
A lifelong champion of education, Andrew is also the founder of ABLE (Andrew Barton London Education), a scholarship programme delivered exclusively in further education colleges to give student hairdressers a deeper, industry-level training experience.
“I got tired of hearing people in the industry complain about college training without doing anything to fix it. So, I decided to stop talking and start doing. ABLE is about bridging that gap and helping students get the skills and confidence they need to thrive.” He says.
In 2025, Andrew also co-launched Split Ends with Andrew & Olga, a YouTube and podcast series that shares behind-the-scenes salon stories with celebrity guests, while offering real insight into the heart of the industry.
Andrew’s titles
His commitment to social change is just as enduring as his creative output. He proudly serves as:
· Ambassador for England for the Fellowship for British Hairdressing
· Honorary Ambassador for the Hair & Barber Council
· Wig Industry Ambassador for the Hairdressing & Beauty Suppliers Association (HBSA)
· Patron of The British Association of Adoption & Fostering
· Hairdresser Ambassador for The Little Princess Trust
· Ambassador for Kidscape, the UK’s anti-bullying charity
· Patron of Project Eileen, a ground-breaking schools programme helping young people navigate grief and loss
Awarded an Honorary Doctor of Arts by Southampton Solent University – the first of its kind awarded to a hairdresser – Andrew Barton remains one of the most passionate, influential, and progressive voices in the industry.
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