Haircare Talk With Celebrity Hairstylist, Shirlena Allen
Shirlena Allen is a celebrity hairstylist to Traci Ellis Ross, actress and known for her role as Joan Clayton on Girlfriends and Rainbow Johnson on ABC’S hit sitcom, Black-ish.
Shirlena studied at several institutions for hair care which included Vidal Sasson, Elasta QP, Sebastian Vision, Martin Parsons, Jamison Shaw, and Dudley’s Cosmetology University. Achieving respect amongst the hair care professionals/educators, paying customers, and music industry executives, Shirlena quickly became the most sought-after hairstylist for television, film, recording artists, and world-class athletes.
Hustle and Soul Magazine got an exclusive interview with Shirlena Allen.
Please tell us about yourself and how you began your career as a celebrity hairstylist?
Shirlena: I began my career as a celebrity hairstylist at the age of 13 braiding stars.
I worked with the 80’s sensation group Klimaxx and Roberta Flack.
How did your work with Traci Ellis Ross come about?
Shirlena: I received a call from a friend who was the current department head for Blackish and she informed Me she was submitting my name to personally look after Tracee Ellis Ross. She also mentioned It was absolutely important that I knew how to braid hair or no job.
Let’s talk natural hair. What is your take on Black Women and natural hair?
Shirlena: I am 100 % supportive of Black women wearing natural texture hair.
Sometimes life brings stress and we need to release, let go and cut off the pressure in our own worlds by either cutting off our hair, taking the wig off, and no more tight braids.
“Out with the old in with the New”
What are some of your own favorite hairstyles for yourself and what are some of your specialties when it comes to doing other people’s hair?
Shirlena: I love braids on me!
I like protective styles that keep my hair strands safe.
My specialty is Haircare, cutting, and extensions. I also troubleshoot and make observations on scalp disorders. I also take clients’ lifestyle before finalizing a makeover.
Any hair care tips you have for us women of color during the winter season?
Shirlena: Keep the ends of your hair trimmed. Bantu knot your hair after it’s been curled. Wear uncleaned hair up and away from the face to prevent irritation to the skin.
What else would you like for us to know about you?
Shirlena: I Shirlena Allen formed a Beauty And Wellness Committee at the Anne Douglas Center for Women Reformation. I am an Ambassador for Paff.org, and I launched Mood Oil which was established in 2021.
Keep up to date:
Facebook: shirlenaallen
Twitter: shirlenaallen
TikTok: shirlenaallen1968
