Mia Santiago is a New York-based hairstylist. The Ohio native studied at the Casal Aveda Institute in Youngstown, Ohio before relocating to New York City. There, Santiago began working at the iconic Sally Hershberger salon, where she still cuts and styles hair. Mia’s celebrity clientele includes Mariska Hargitay, Martha Stewart, Dove Cameron, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Christine Hendricks, and Dr. Oz, among others. Santiago has a knack for educating and has been a guest speaker for O, the Oprah magazine numerous times and shared her hair knowledge on various podcasts. She has created editorial stories for Harper’s Bazaar, InStyle, Marie Claire, Glamour, Cosmopolitan, People, WWD and the Wall Street Journal.
Q+A:
How do you determine which prep product to begin with?
I always look at the density and texture of the hair and of course what the client is trying to achieve in their style.
Do you have a favorite go-to?
So many – but Wata Wave Texturizing Spray is my absolute must-have!
How do you think the precious ingredient story plays into speaking to products with clients?
The stories behind each precious rare ingredient show its exclusivity and luxurious quality making it even more desirable.
What makes Shu so appealing to clients and stylists?
A combination of its rare and precious ingredients and the fact that it simply performs so well.
Which two products can you not live without? And why?
Wata Wave Texturizing Spray- It works well in any hair type and makes the hair pop. It’s one of my all-time favorite products – ever. I also love Moya Hold Hair Spray. It has amazing hold and shine and it’s awesome to work with.
featured hair products
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wata-wave-texturizing-spraywata wave texturizing spray Long lasting, flexible hold, texturizing spray leaves a soft, matte hair finish.
Price: $42.00
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nourishing-protective-hair-oilessence absolue nourishing protective hair oil Moisturizing hair oil that adds shine & softness.
Price: $69.00
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moya-hold-hair-spray