Leading up to my honeymoon, I was fortunate to visit LRN Beauty for a luxurious hair refresh, complete with a deep conditioning treatment, a bouncy blowout, and a chic style. Following my honeymoon, I was even more fortunate to be granted a Q&A with Lauren Paglionico, the Master Colorist and Founder of LRN Beauty! See her answers below:
First off, congratulations on LRN Beauty’s Editor’s Choice Award win! How does it feel to be recognized as a hidden gem in a city overflowing with salons?
Thank you! It honestly means so much to me. New York is packed with incredible talent, so being recognized as a hidden gem feels really special. LRN has always been about creating a space that feels personal, warm, and inviting—a place where clients feel truly cared for. This kind of recognition reminds me that the intention is resonating, and I’m truly honored.
You’ve worked at iconic institutions like John Barrett and Warren Tricomi. What pushed you to take the leap and open LRN — and how did you shape its distinct vibe?
I had incredible training early in my career, and I feel really grateful for the foundation it gave me. I’m still in touch with one of my color mentors from that time, which means a lot. The luxury salon experience taught me so much, but deep down, I always knew I wanted to create something of my own. LRN Beauty is where uptown meets downtown. It’s chill and welcoming, but backed by the kind of expertise and high-touch service you’d expect from the best salons. I wanted it to feel elevated, never intimidating—like you’re hanging out in your friend’s living room, but you’re getting top-tier service while you’re there.
You’ve said you always knew you wanted to work in hair. What sparked that early passion, and how has it grown into what LRN is today?
I started working at a salon after school when I was 14, and I immediately loved it. I’d always been drawn to fashion and beauty from a young age, but it wasn’t until I was actually in that environment that I realized it could be a real career path for me. Starting so young gave me the chance to work in every area of the salon—from the front desk to the daily upkeep, not just the client-facing roles. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how a salon truly runs, and it definitely helped shape me into the owner I am today. It’s been a full-circle journey, and I’m so proud of what LRN has become.
Your reputation as a blonde color expert is legendary. What do you think sets your color approach apart, and what trends are you currently loving?
Thank you! That really means a lot. I think what sets my approach apart is how thorough I am from the very beginning. Every color starts with an in-depth consultation where we talk about hair history, current color, goals, and lifestyle. I’m always realistic about what’s possible and believe in educating my clients—great color takes time, and it’s a journey we take together. While I stay up to date on trends, I always prioritize finding a shade of blonde that truly works for you. The foundation should be timeless and classic—something that enhances your natural features and suits your individual style.
Right now, I’m really into golden blonde. It’s a look that works on so many people and has that warm, natural vibe that never really goes out of style. It’s been great to see it come back because it just feels effortless and flattering. Bobs are also having a big moment, and honestly, they’re one of my favorite cuts. They’re simple but can be styled in so many ways—whether you want something sleek or a little more relaxed.
While color is clearly your specialty, I appreciated how accommodating you were during my visit, recommending a conditioning treatment, cut, and blowout that made me feel amazing. How do you customize your approach for each client?
Thanks! Healthy hair is always the top priority—not just for me, but for everyone on the team. Being thoughtful and accommodating is part of our blueprint at LRN. We really take the time to listen to what each client needs and wants to achieve. While color is my specialty, I know the right cut, treatment, or blowout can completely elevate the experience. Whether it’s adding a conditioning treatment, trimming to freshen things up, or finishing with a blowout, we customize everything to make sure you leave feeling not only looking good but feeling good too!
What were some elements that were non-negotiable for you when designing the space and culture?
Natural light was number one for me. We’re lucky to have the most beautiful natural light, and the way it shifts throughout the day gives the space a warm, calming energy. I also knew I wanted art and color throughout—it brightens the space and makes it feel fun, inviting, and full of personality. I never wanted LRN to feel like a place where clients are rushed in and out. The goal was to create an environment where people genuinely want to hang out, even after their hair is done. There’s never a rush here, and I think that ease is something people really feel when they walk in.
How do you keep evolving creatively in such a trend-driven industry?
It’s just part of who I am—staying open, evolving, and trying new things has always felt natural to me. Trends change all the time, but most of the time, it’s something we’ve seen before, just coming back in a new way. I actually love that about this industry. It keeps things interesting and fun. I like taking what’s current and finding a way to make it feel fresh but still true to each client.
What’s one color myth you wish clients would stop believing — and what’s your best advice for long-lasting results between visits?
One big myth I wish clients would let go of is the idea that you can go dark—especially with box color—and then easily go light again. It just doesn’t work that way. Lifting dark color, particularly artificial pigment, is a process that takes time, patience, and a lot of care to maintain the health of the hair.
My best advice for long-lasting color between visits is to use quality, professional, color-safe shampoo and conditioner, avoid excessive heat, and always use a heat protectant – even if you aren’t blow-drying your hair. It’s totally normal for your hair to oxidize and shift in tone over time. I always recommend coming in for a gloss every 6–8 weeks to refresh the tone and shine, especially if you have a bit of regrowth but aren’t quite ready for another highlight yet.
How do you balance family life with salon life, and how has motherhood influenced your perspective as a business owner?
What I’ve come to realize is that there’s no such thing as a perfect 50/50 balance, and accepting that has helped me relax and enjoy things more as they come. My personality is to give 120% to everything I do, which can definitely be exhausting, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. I’m also incredibly lucky to have a devoted, hands-on husband who really understands the demands of this industry because, at one time, he worked in it too. He’s thoughtful, supportive, and truly gets what I do, which makes a huge difference in how we navigate family and work life together. Motherhood has taught me to slow down, be present, and take my time—and that’s something I’ve carried into running the business. In a world that moves so fast, especially with social media and technology, it’s a gift to be reminded to slow it down and be in the moment. I think that mindset shapes how we show up for our clients, too.
What’s on the horizon for you and LRN in 2025?
In 2025, I’d love for LRN to grow into more of a beauty retail destination, not just a salon. We’re excited to start carrying ROZ haircare and Tano skincare, and we’re proud to be Tano’s very first NYC store to carry their line. On top of that, we have some fun events planned for the fall that I can’t wait to share. It’s all about creating a space where people can discover and experience great beauty products alongside our signature services.
Learn more about LRN Beauty HERE.
And check out our Reel on my LRN Beauty experience:
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