Mastering the art of hairstyling requires more than just skill, it takes passion, care, and a deep understanding of the craft. Kurstyn Jolly, a licensed master cosmetologist, is making waves in the beauty industry with her passion and expertise. Originally from Troy, Alabama, Kurstyn shares that she always knew she wanted to do hair. She’s been doing hair since she was 12 years old, a skill that came naturally to her as she grew up with sisters. However, her journey wasn’t a straight path. She initially attended traditional college majoring in computer science, but quickly realized it wasn’t for her. This realization led her to pursue cosmetology instead where she learned the fundamentals needed to pass the state board. She acknowledges that while cosmetology school provided her with essential training, the true growth and expertise came from immersing herself in the industry and refining her craft through hands- on experience. Interestingly, while excelling in the beauty industry, Kurstyn is currently finishing her degree in cybersecurity.
Like many other Black hairstylists, Kurstyn faced challenges early in her career. She recalls being taught from a predominantly white- centered curriculum, where techniques and products didn’t always translate to Black hair care. Navigating this gap, she worked extremely hard to carve out her niche and build a clientele that aligned with her skills. Though she is multi- talented when it comes to hair, she knew she had to refine her focus to truly establish her brand and attract the right clients. Currently, Kurstyn is loving the resurgence of 90s hairstyles, particularly how this generation is putting its own modern-day spin on the classic looks. “It’s very similar styles, but with a fresh twist,” she explains.
In December of last year, Kurstyn joined Mimbbo during its soft launch and has remained connected to the platform ever since. With a loyal clientele primarily consisting of longtime customers and older women, she’s excited to see how the app helps expand her reach. She believes Mimbbo is fostering a strong community of beauty entrepreneurs and is eager to see how it evolves. As a member of the platform, she’s ready to bring her expertise and creativity to new clients. Based in Atlanta, Kurstyn currently offers traveling cosmetology services. You can find her professionally on social media under @jollygirlcurls.
One of the most common mistakes Kurstyn sees in the beauty industry is people prioritizing trends over the health of their natural hair. She also emphasizes that cheaper doesn’t always mean better and quality should never be compromised. While she strives to keep her services affordable, Kurstyn values the hard work and skill that go into her craft. To her, getting your hair done isn’t just about the final look; its about the entire experience. She also highlights the importance of education in cosmetology, noting that professionals undergo rigorous training to properly care for one’s hair.
For Kurstyn, the most rewarding part of her job is witnessing the joy on her clients’ faces when they see the finished look. It’s more than just hairstyling, it’s about building relationships and creating special moments. She recalls one particularly emotional experience where a client booked an appointment and at the end, revealed she was getting her hair done because she was burying her son the next day. Though deeply saddened by her client’s loss, Kurstyn was grateful to have provided a moment of comfort, joy, and laughter during a difficult time. These client relationships mean everything to Kurstyn, and she truly loves every aspect of what she does.
For those who struggle to embrace and love their natural hair, Kurstyn wishes she could personally sit down with every little Black girl and remind them of the power and beauty that’s held in their roots. “There’s so much deep- rooted history in our hair, it’s truly a superpower,” she shares. She reflects on the significance of styles such as cornrows, which were once used as maps to guide enslaved people to freedom. “No Black girl should grow up not loving her hair,” she says. “Our hair tells a story, and that story should always be celebrated.”
Kurstyn’s dream within the next few years is to establish and open her own cosmetology school, the first in Georgia with an all- Black curriculum. She envisions it as more than just a place to learn hair care, she wants to create a space that uplifts and empowers the Black community. She also wants to include an on- site daycare, ensuring that single parents who want to pursue their education won’t have to choose between their children and their dreams.
If Kurstyn could describe cosmetology in one sentence, it would be “Creating a community, culture and space for people to feel seen and valued.” She is passionate about breaking barriers in the industry and making beauty and self- care accessible to everyone. She wants to ensure that every aspiring hairstylist has the opportunity to learn in an environment that truly represents them. With her talent, vision, and heart for others, Kurstyn Jolly is truly redefining the beauty industry.
Photo Credit: Kurstyn Jolly
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