Check Out Crystal Perez’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Perez.

Hi Crystal, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my beauty industry journey 15 years ago at Paul Mitchell The School in Costa Mesa. At first, I planned on becoming an esthetician—and I did! I completed the program, got my license, and began working. But something about hair always pulled me in. That passion brought me back to Paul Mitchell, this time to complete the cosmetology program.

Fresh out of school, I thought I was ready to take on the world. I jumped into the industry as a traveling stylist, working with Cinderella Hairline doing extensions. But reality hit—I needed more experience. So I humbled myself and started assisting at a salon in downtown Covina. That led to assisting in two or three more salons in the area, staying loyal to the same stylist the entire time.

Eventually, I got my chance on the floor. I hustled hard—walking around downtown, handing out cards at restaurants, bars, and local shops. I even offered free blowouts just to get people in my chair. Slowly but surely, I started building a client base. But it wasn’t easy. I was a single mom and had to sell most of my personal belongings just to afford hair color and make ends meet.

Every dollar I made, I reinvested into education. I knew education would always be a major part of my journey—and my success. I moved from salon to salon, from Covina to Claremont and back again, in search of the right mentor and environment to grow. I worked in some well-known salons, but I never quite felt the support I needed—not because of them, but because I realized I was looking for something I had to create myself.

That’s when I knew: I had to open my own salon. I wanted to be the mentor I never had, and create a space where stylists could feel seen, supported, and inspired.

Since opening my salon, I’ve been honored with a One Shot Award, partnered with Wella and The Hair Shop Extensions as an educator, and launched my own independent education classes. I’m incredibly proud of how far I’ve come—but I’m not done. I don’t think I’ve hit my full potential yet.

I still have big dreams: main stages, global platforms, and continuing to sharpen my craft while giving back to the community that helped shape me. I’m grateful for the journey—and excited for what’s still to come.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road wasn’t always smooth. I faced harassment, bullying, and plenty of empty promises about opportunities that never came through. But every experience—good or bad—played a part in shaping who I am today. I’ve learned to embrace both the wins and the challenges.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
From bold, high-contrast blondes to low-maintenance balayage—and all types of extensions—Is my go to. l. Now, I’m also creatively stepping into a new space, focusing more on styling and artistic expression. Through fun photo shoots, collaborating with models, and bringing my work to life in a whole new way.

Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I love how we get to celebrate such a rich mix of cultures, creativity, artist and people—from the food to the art, and everyone’s choice of love. Whether it’s Pride or just everyday expression, LA embraces it all. And the best part? In just 30 to 45 minutes, you can go from downtown to the beach or the mountains. We really have it all.

Contact Info:

• Website: crystalteachhair@gmail.com
• Instagram: @crystalteach

Image Credits
All photos taken by me.
Except the one shot award was taken by my husband, Mike Perez.