Bored Panda contacted Jack Martin again to learn more about himself and his work as a hair colorist. Martin told us that the inspiration to become a hairstylist came from personal experience. "When I was 6 or 7 years old, I used to go with my mother to her hairdresser, sit and watch, and that was the first spark of inspiration. I witnessed the positive impact hairstyling can have on people’s self-esteem and confidence.

Overall, the decision to become a hairstylist was always driven by a genuine passion for hair, a desire to make a positive impact on others, and a love for the creative and dynamic nature of the profession."

Martin shared that his very first transformation involving gray hair was eight years ago, and the story is truly inspiring. It had an impact on both his life and his client's. "Eight years ago, a client approached me with black boxed color and two inches of white roots, asking if I could match her black boxed color to her white roots. Initially, I thought she was insane, but her determination and confidence in me inspired me to challenge myself. I agreed under a few conditions: first, that she wouldn't hold it against me if I fried her hair; second, that she'd be open to a pixie cut if things went wrong; and third, that she'd allow me a full day without rushing, as hair requires time. She accepted all the conditions, and after eight hours, she had beautiful, healthy white hair that perfectly matched her roots. We were both over the moon with the results, and she could now enjoy her early retirement and outdoor activities without feeling embarrassed about her two-toned hair color."

Choosing to embrace your natural gray hair can be a great decision, letting you be true to yourself and highlight your distinct beauty. If you're a bit unsure about going gray, here are some tips from Martin to help you make the decision with confidence:

• Educate yourself: "Learn about the process of going gray, how it might affect your hair texture, and the different ways you can care for and style gray hair. Understanding the journey can help alleviate any concerns or misconceptions you may have."
• Seek inspiration: "Look for role models and inspiration among women and men who have embraced their gray hair. There are many celebrities, influencers, and everyday individuals who proudly rock their gray locks. Seeing others confidently embrace their gray can help you envision how you might look and feel with your natural hair color."
• Experiment with temporary solutions: "If you’re unsure about fully committing to gray hair, consider trying temporary solutions first. This could involve using temporary gray dyes or color sprays to get a sense of how you might look. It’s a low-risk way to explore the idea and gain more confidence in your decision."
• Consult with a professional stylist: "Book a consultation with a stylist who specializes in gray hair. They can assess your hair color, texture, and personal style to provide recommendations that suit you. A skilled stylist can also guide you through the transition process, offer styling tips, and suggest flattering haircuts that enhance your natural gray."
• Embrace the process: "Transitioning to gray hair is a journey that requires patience and time. It’s common for hair to go through different stages and hues during the transition. Embrace the process and be open to the unique beauty that comes with it. Remember, it’s a journey of self-discovery and acceptance."
• Focus on overall self-care: "Taking care of your hair, skin, and overall well-being can boost your confidence throughout the transition. Maintain a consistent hair care routine, use products specifically designed for gray hair, and nourish your body with a healthy diet and exercise. Feeling good about yourself holistically will reflect positively on your decision to embrace your gray hair."
• Surround yourself with support: "Seek support from friends, family, or online communities who share your journey or have already embraced their gray hair. Surrounding yourself with positive influences and like-minded individuals can provide encouragement, advice, and a sense of belonging."

"Remember, the decision to embrace your natural gray hair is personal and should be based on what makes you feel most comfortable and confident. Embrace the uniqueness of your gray hair and celebrate the beauty that comes with aging gracefully."

Martin shared that there are several reasons that make him passionate about the work he does as a hair colorist:

• Creativity: "Hair coloring is an art form that allows for creative expression. I have the opportunity to transform someone’s appearance and enhance their natural beauty through the use of color. I can experiment with different shades, techniques, and trends to create unique and personalized looks for my clients."
• Helping others feel confident: "Changing one’s hair color can have a significant impact on their self-esteem and confidence. I have the ability to help my clients feel more confident and empowered by creating a look that aligns with their personality and style. Seeing the positive impact my work has on my clients’ lives can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience."
• Continuous learning and growth: "The field of hair coloring is constantly evolving, with new techniques, products, and trends emerging regularly. I have the opportunity to engage in continuous learning and attend seminars, workshops, and industry events to stay updated with the latest developments in the field. This ongoing learning process can be intellectually stimulating and keep me passionate about my craft."
• Building relationships: "I often develop strong relationships with my clients. I get to know my clients’ preferences, personalities, and lifestyles, which allows me to provide personalized recommendations and create customized looks. The trust and connection built with clients over time can be incredibly rewarding and make the profession more fulfilling."
• Transforming lives: "As a hair colorist I have the power to transform someone’s appearance and, in turn, impact their lives. A new hair color can boost someone’s confidence, improve their mood, and even change the way they perceive themselves. Knowing that my work can make a positive difference in someone’s life can be a significant source of passion and motivation."