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Entries are now open for the industry's most prestigious creative competition, marking the return of Nail Professional of the Year while celebrating the artistry that defines professional beauty.
August 4, 2026
Credit:
Professional Beauty Association
2 min to read
The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) has announced that entries are officially open for PBA NAHA 2027, inviting licensed professionals to submit their work for the industry's most prestigious creative awards competition.
For nearly four decades, PBA NAHA has recognized the artists whose creativity, technical excellence, and innovation continue to shape the professional beauty industry. Each year, PBA NAHA honors collections that challenge convention, demonstrate exceptional technical mastery, and help define the future of professional beauty.
Returning for the first time since 2020, Nail Professional of the Year honors the exceptional artistry, technical execution, and versatility of professional nail artists. The category recognizes collections showcasing salon-style nails, nail extensions, and avant-garde nail artistry, reflecting the creativity, precision, and innovation that define professional nail design. Its return reflects PBA NAHA's continued commitment to recognizing excellence across every discipline of professional beauty.
PBA NAHA also introduces a refined logo that more accurately reflects the breadth of artistry celebrated through the competition. While honoring nearly four decades of history, the updated logo expands beyond its historic association with hair to better represent the artists recognized today across hair, barbering, makeup, and nails.
"Every year, PBA NAHA reminds us that creativity is one of the most powerful forces shaping our industry," said Leslie Perry, CEO of the Professional Beauty Association. "These artists don't just create beautiful work. They challenge techniques, influence trends, and inspire what's possible for the profession. As PBA NAHA continues to evolve alongside the industry, we're proud to recognize all the extraordinary talent that makes professional beauty so dynamic."
Entries will be accepted through October 13, 2026, for Non-Members. PBA Members receive an exclusive extended deadline through November 12, 2026, providing additional time to complete and submit their collections.
Artists are invited to submit the collections that best represent their creativity, technical skill, and unique artistic vision across PBA NAHA's award categories. Finalists will be announced at Premiere Anaheim on February 7, 2027, before the industry's most accomplished artists gather to celebrate the winners live at PBA NAHA 2027 on June 6, 2027, alongside Premiere Orlando.
Originally posted on Modern Salon
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