In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th through October 15th), SalonCentric is shining a spotlight on some of the incredibly talented, inspiring, and beauty-blazing Hispanic-Latinx artists within our community. Today, we’re thrilled to be speaking with Michele Aquino (@thehairgurunyc), a multitalented stylist, Latina entrepreneur, and recipient of this year’s L’Oréal USA Inclusive Beauty Fund.
Ahead, Michele shares her success story, including how her identity influences her artistry and what inspires her each day at her salon suite (The Hair Guru NYC) in New York City.
Michele Aquino describes herself as a proud Dominican-American woman who draws on her heritage and creativity to provide personalized, holistic haircare experiences. Raised by two hardworking Dominican immigrants in New York City, she says that her parent’s sacrifices and dedication growing up inspired her to open a unique Dominican head spa for her community.
Today, Michele’s multiservice salon suite serves as a sanctuary for people of color with textured hair. She combines ancient techniques from around the world, like Ayurvedic oiling practices, with a Caribbean infusion. Michele specializes in styling all hair textures, offering customized haircuts, dimensional color, and stunning bridal and red carpet looks. She says her goal is to nurture scalp health and hair vitality using clean, vegan products.
Instagram/@thehairgurunyc
SalonCentric: Did you always want to be a stylist?
Michele Aquino: I grew up in my aunt’s salon on 231st Street and Broadway—a traditional Dominican salon where the women of the neighborhood would gather, not just for a wash and set, but to catch up on gossip, dissect the latest telenovelas, and share the highs and lows of life.
There was a magic to that space. It always seemed like, with every wash, the clients left feeling lighter; as if their worries were left behind with the roller pins. I spent countless childhood summers there and I like to believe that’s where the artist in me was born. Whether I was playing under the hooded dryers or spinning in the salon chairs, it’s where my love for hair and community was nurtured.
I’ve always been fascinated by the beauty and complexity of textured hair, and the cultural significance it holds, especially in the Latino and African-American communities. My journey into haircare was inspired by those roots, and by the desire to create a space like my aunt’s—a sanctuary where women of color feel seen, cherished, and celebrated for their natural beauty. I didn’t always know I’d become a stylist, but I’ve always known that I wanted to provide care, nourishment, and a sense of belonging, specifically for those with textured hair.
SC: Where does your motivation come from today?
MA: My motivation comes from the heart of my culture and the incredible women who surround me. My parents are my greatest inspiration, embodying resilience, dedication, and an unwavering work ethic that pushes me to strive for my highest potential. My sister’s wisdom and guidance are my constant anchor, always reminding me to trust in my vision and believe in my greatness.
And my husband—he’s my mirror, reflecting back to me the brilliance and strength I sometimes forget. Without my village, I wouldn’t be who I am today. They are my constant motivation, and for that, I’m eternally grateful. I channel their energy into everything I create, driven by a passion to celebrate the beauty of textured hair and provide treatments that genuinely heal and restore. Seeing the joy and confidence in my clients after they leave my salon is the fuel that keeps me innovating and merging traditional haircare with modern techniques.
Instagram/@thehairgurunyc
SC: If you could trade lives for a day with any stylist, who would it be?
MA: If I could trade lives with any stylist for a day, it would definitely be Jawara, the Senior Beauty Editor-at-Large of i-D Magazine. His journey from a hair assistant in Brooklyn mirrors my own beginnings as an assistant in downtown Manhattan, and I am deeply inspired by his relentless passion for hair. His influence in the beauty industry is undeniable—Jawara has worked with global brands, designed hair for high-fashion editorials, and styled A-list celebrities. His work seamlessly blends cultural identity with innovation and his ability to push boundaries while staying true to his roots is something I greatly admire.
SC: What's one hair product you can’t live without?
MA: One hair product I absolutely couldn’t live without is Maria Nila’s Head & Hair Heal Masque. It’s my go-to for deeply nourishing the scalp and hair in no time. In just a few minutes, this treatment soothes the scalp and leaves hair feeling incredibly soft and shiny. It features calming aloe vera and vitamin E, plus several active ingredients (like the antioxidant piroctone olamine) that help deliver long-lasting hydration and instant relief for dry scalps. I also love that it leaves your hair smelling amazing, with a light floral scent of white jasmine, galbanum, and linden blossom.
SC: What’s one hair secret you think everybody should know?
MA: I believe that the secret to truly radiant-looking hair starts from within. A well-balanced, healthy lifestyle isn’t only important for promoting glowing skin, but it can also help your hair look and feel its best. Additionally, I believe that the foundation of great hair is a healthy scalp. Regardless of hair texture or type, the scalp's well-being can directly impact the appearance and quality of your hair. Prioritizing scalp care through nourishing oil treatments, gentle exfoliation, and deeply hydrating masks can help promote healthy-looking hair that thrives. When the scalp is healthy, your hair can flourish naturally and beautifully.
Next Up: Artist Spotlight: Jazmin Villegas
Header image credit: Instagram/@thehairgurunyc
