Jason Schneidman, celebrity hair stylist and Dove Men+Care Hair Expert, is what you might call a hair legend in Hollywood. As someone who’s been working in the industry for 20 plus years (and now at one of LA’s most prestigious salons), it’s not surprising that the laid-back surfer found his way to clients like Hugh Jackman and Rob Lowe. Here’s what he has to say about his favorite products, new trends and how he goofs around with his clientele.
When did you realize that you wanted to work as a men’s stylist? Was there an “ah-ha” moment?
Ever since I was a kid really. I always did haircuts for my friends when we were surfing and hanging out and it was fun. After high school I tried a bunch of different professions and my parents encouraged me to go to hair trade school. After that I worked a little, but when I turned 30 I realized it was time to get serious and I moved back to L.A. I coincidentally met Chris McMillan, who was well known at the time for doing Jennifer Aniston’s hair, so I approached him…the rest is history. I’ve had a passion and desire to be creative my whole life and hair was my outlet.
What are your top three grooming products and why?
First, I’d say the men’s groomer brush, which is great for creating all different types of styles on men. I use it to create the pompadour, which is a favorite of Bruno Mars. I also really like the Dove Men+Care Styling Paste, it’s a great mold-able paste that can easily transform looks for guys and leaves a matte finish, which I think is great for shorter hair. The last one I’d have to say is dry shampoo, I don’t think anyone should wash their hair every day because it just leaves it flat and lifeless, but then guys can use dry shampoo and it will give guys a clean look and add volume, which is great for styling later.
You’ve worked with a ton of male celebrities. Do you have any funny stories working with them?
I honestly love everyone I work with, from Rob Lowe to James Corden, they are all really great guys and we just like to have fun on set. James makes me laugh all day. I’d say working on photo shoots has put me in some pretty interesting situations where I have to work fast to make sure we get the look.
Who’s your “hair idol” and why?
I love Steve McQueen’s look. I think he is classic Hollywood, and that’s timeless – his look is still fashionable today.
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned working as a stylist for more than 20 years?
I think just rolling with it; I’m pretty easy-going and over the years I’ve learnt how to do haircuts pretty quickly, and the guys are always so easy to work with. I really developed my greatest skills with men. Men like consistency and I can give that.
Where do you think men’s hair will go next, as far as trends?
I think the 90s are coming back – slick hair with a little bit more length. Fashion builds itself so it will be longer hair with a modern twist.
