Iles Formula Hair Talk Featuring Kelsey Gustovich From Chris McMillan Salon

This week don't miss our Iles Formula Hair Talk Featuring Kelsey Gustovich From Chris McMillan Salon. Having  trained with some of the top hair dressers in LA, such as,  Chris McMillan, Dominick Serna, and Chris Appleton, she  was able to start paving her own way in Los  Angeles. With 8 years of experience, specializing in cut and styling, Kelsey is a hairstylist at the Chris McMillan Salon in Beverly Hills. Her contagious smile and upbeat energy rubs off on every client she styles. When she's not in the salon you can catch her on set of an editorial, getting clients Red Carpet ready, or in NYC, Denver, and Cleveland where she also makes guest appearances taking haircut clients. Kelsey's  love and passion for hair only pushes her to do more and excites her for whats to come in the future. Read what Kelsey has to share below.

Instagram @kelseygusto

IF:  Tell us what you think is the biggest challenge in hairdressing today?

I think the biggest challenge in hairdressing today is keeping up with social media. Although it's fun at times and a great way to get your work out there, it's a lot of pressure to keep up with it.

IF:  What’s the most enjoyable part of your job?

The most enjoyable part of my job is making people feel beautiful. Whether you are changing someones look or they are just coming in to get a blow out before a special occasion, to see your clients face light up and feel more confident is a beautiful thing. I feel so blessed to have a career that I believe, sometimes changes lives.

IF:  Why did you choose the path of hairdressing and was it easy to fall into this work?

Ever since I was a little girl I have always been obsessed with hair. I was the go to hair stylist in my small town in Ohio before I was even licensed! After I got licensed I knew I needed to move so that I could fullfill all my dreams. Then, after beauty school I moved to LA at 19 to make those dreams a reality!

IF:  If you had not made the decision to be a hairdresser what would you have been?

If I had not made the decision to be a hairdresser I would most likely be in the health and wellness field. I’ve always been a very healthy person. To get my mind off of hair sometimes, I enjoy looking up healthy recipes or work out videos.

IF:  What is your greatest strength?

My greatest strength is changing someones look. I’m not afraid to take someone with super long hair to a pixie. I love change. Especially when I have a client sit down in my chair and they are ready for a new look, my mind starts filling up with ideas!

IF:  Your favorite hairdressing tools?

My favorite hairdressing tool would be my parlux blow dryer and Ibza round brushes! Couldn’t live without them!


IF:  Tell us about your relationship with Iles Formula. How you discovered us and which formula is your favorite?

I am OBSESSED with Iles! I discovered Iles through Chris McMillan. I remember when he was sent their shampoo, conditioner and finishing serum, that was all I would hear him recommending his clients. I soon dove into their products and have been so happy ever since!

IF:  What was the most challenging job you ever had?

One of my most challenging jobs was when I first moved to LA. It was my first ever assisting job. I was assisting a stylist who worked on set and in salon. The first day on the job we had three different set jobs to get to. I was so nervous and was so new to LA. It was a crazy hectic day running around LA from one job to the next, making sure I did my best. At the end of the day I remember sitting in my car when I got home and thought “woah, I did it!”

IF:  What was your worst hair moment and why.... privately or on set/stage or in the salon?

One of my worst hair moments, was when I was in a hair show that I had thought I was doing hair for. When I showed up, I actually was one of the models. I ended up going along with being one of the models (worst decision ever) I had extensions all knotted in my hair and teasing! I had the worst time getting everything out of my hair!

IF:  If you could style anyone’s hair, who would it be and why?

Oh man, if I could style anyone's hair it would be Cindy Crawford. I’ve always adored her, especially her gorgeous hair!

IF:  Where do you pull hair inspiration from?

I pull a lot of my hair inspiration through magazines or Pinterest.

IF:  Your advice to young hairdressers starting out?

My advice to a young hairdresser starting out is challenge yourself, be humble, be the hardest worker, and have a positive attitude. I feel if you are truly passionate with whatever you do, you will always be successful!