Iles Formula Hair Talk with Tara Neh from Archer Salon, San Francisco

“May I be the one responsible for your good hair days” -  say's Tara Neh. On visiting Tara's salon website we are greeted with these lovely welcoming words, which already give us a feeling of her passion towards hair.


Tara has been working at many prestigious salons throughout her career, advancing her artistic training from masters such as Vidal Sassoon, Yosh, Toni &Guy. Today she can be found at Archer Salon in San Francisco and is also a part of the Iles Formula team, and can be seen on the Nieman Marcus floor attending to Iles Formula special events …. Come meet Tara and our founder Wendy Iles in San Francisco at Nieman's on 6 and 7th December.

Check out more of her works on Instagram @beautybytaraneh
and https://www.archersalon.com/artists#/taraneh

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

Quick color corrections expectations causing too many over-processed hairs.

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

Modern Psychology suggests we do better when we feel better in all areas of life and I know how good hair days can make a difference in anyone's day including myself.

I love being able to have learned the skill sets to help others to look and feel their best in such a fun and creative way.

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

Passion. I got the first professional haircut that I absolutely loved the experience from the moment I stepped into the high-end salon.

As a young immigrant while in college, a psychology major after having tried nursing school and blacking out a few times at the sight of blood, I wasn’t quite sure if I'm on the right path. I also had a huge interest in the fashion & beauty industry. My mother thought I'm very good at connecting with people. So I decided to give it a try and the rest was history!

I can confidently say a few decades later of following my bliss per se has awarded me a fun job doing what I love doing with so much independence, a great lifestyle, allowed me to travel the world on my time, meeting and making an endless list of amazing people and much more yet to come. I am truly grateful.

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

A psychologist or maybe a writer! Nah I've been told a good Chef! I really don't know!

IF: What is your greatest strength?

A good listener. It really comes handy since everyone wants to be heard and it makes my work much easier too.

IF: Your favorite hairdressing tools?

Mason Pearson + Dyson + Iles Formula Finishing Serum

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

I was invited to a hair seminar by a good client who works at Neiman Marcus, around the block from work. I am always open to education and new luxury hair products. I fell in love with the line and Wendy as well. Finally, a luxury line that delivers what’s promising and SIMPLE. Also inspiring to know that it was made by a boss lady :) So it was an instant connection.

I like the Trio pack because it's the most effective by setting the foundation for the results I need for anything I am doing however if in a crunch the Iles Formula Finishing Serum is a must.

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

Very short time frames in a fashion show, wedding or a late client as it improves my presence to focus on my vision more but during it I know I’m holding my breath!

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

When I was in beauty school we had to learn everything and I burnt my Mom’s hair! I was devastated even though she was happy with a short pixie haircut because she was an angel and I’d never touched another perm since! In a way, I know it all worked out since I prefer to not be around heavy chemicals in general.

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

JLo’s hair probably being the most iconic mix of talents done to her hair but I may enjoy Ellen Degeneres/ or Jimmy Kimmel so I can laugh the whole time. Honestly, I don’t know and the true answer is anyone in my chair completes me!

IF: Where do you pull hair inspiration from?

A bunch of sources such as social media along with clients' features, it's different every time on what makes one feel their best whilst showcasing their best features. Again also listening and making sure it's wearable, in their comfort zone while guiding it towards your vision and always improve and enhance the existing beauty.

IF: Your advice to young hairdressers starting out?

Become a better version of yourself every day, stay humble and deliver excellent service. Always remember no matter what you do in life ultimately keep your skills polished and be ready to serve…. & most importantly enjoy the journey with much laughter.

~ Tara Neh