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You’ve probably noticed—we love collaborating with stylists who share Number 4 High Performance Hair Care’s motto: we take hair care seriously, but never ourselves too seriously. That’s why we are thrilled to team up with one of the most creative among them, Kat Nacario.
Kat isn’t just a stylist. As a global Number 4 Artist, she’s traveled the world sharing her expertise. Originally from the East Bay, her journey took her through Boston and New York for advanced training before she returned to California to open Front Row Salon in 2020. With more than two decades of experience, Kat is celebrated for her mastery of Sahag Dry Cutting and her playful, adventurous approach to color, making her career as inspiring as it is creative.
We recently sat down with Kat to chat about her styling secrets, favorite Number 4 products, and life beyond the salon, and here’s what she told us.
Q: Is there a motto or quote that has inspired you throughout your career?
A: ‘The world is your oyster.’ The world has so much to teach us if you just watch, listen, and explore. That’s half the reason I love hairdressing! I’ve learned so much from my clients over the years through their experiences and stories, everyone has a phenomenal story to tell if you take the time to listen.
Hairdressing has also taken me across the U.S. and abroad, giving me the chance to learn from different cultures in different languages. What I’ve discovered is that hairdressing is the same in every language…it’s such a visual, tactile art that sometimes words aren’t even necessary. Whenever I travel somewhere new, I always make it a point to step into a local salon to see how stylists THERE work. It’s endlessly inspiring and always sparks new ideas.
Q: What’s your #1 tip for keeping hair salon-fresh between visits?
A: Use Number 4, of course! And follow your stylist’s care instructions; they should give you a routine tailored just for you. If they haven’t, don’t hesitate to ask. Sometimes we forget to explain exactly what we use and how, but those details make all the difference in keeping hair healthy and fresh.
Q: Do you have a go-to styling tip or trick with Number 4 products?
A: Play! What I love about Number 4 is that there are no rules. Layer products, mix them, try them in unexpected ways. I even like using Mighty Hair Spray on damp hair sometimes. If it doesn’t work, rinse and start again. Every stylist and every head of hair is different, that’s what makes it fun.
Q: What are your top five Number 4 favorites?
A: My top five? Daily Clarifying Shampoo, Reconstructing Hair Masque, Styling Foam, Sugar Texturizing Spray, and Mighty Hair Spray.
- Daily Clarifying Shampoo is my reset. I only wash 2–3 times a week, and it removes buildup without stripping my color. Plus, it’s my favorite fragrance in the line.
- Reconstructing Hair Masque is instant magic. No overnight wait or spending 15 minutes to rinse, takes only 3–5 minutes. It repairs my hair after lightening and keeps it healthy.
- Styling Foam is my root booster. My hair has a slight wave, and I’ve always wanted more curl and volume. This gives me lift without the crunch.
- Sugar Texturizing Spray is all about soft, touchable texture. I scrunch it into damp hair from mid-lengths to ends, but sometimes I also use it on dry hair for a quick refresh on day two or three. If I need extra hold, I’ll layer it with Support Solution for a glossy, textured finish.
- And Mighty Hair Spray… it’s simply the best hairspray I’ve ever used. I honestly couldn’t live without it.
Q: Autumn calls for an updated hair routine. Which product do you rely on most during this season?
A: After summer, Number 4 Reconstructing Hair Masque is my savior. Sun, salt water, and hotel shampoos can really take a toll. Going into fall, most clients need extra care. This masque delivers the perfect balance of protein and moisture, plus it strengthens, hydrates, and can repair almost anything.
Q: What’s your best piece of advice for someone wanting to change their look?
A: Go for it! Life’s too short to hold back. If you don’t like it, change it again. And remember, it’s just hair. Look for pictures of people with a similar face shape and hair type and keep your expectations realistic. Stylists can work magic, but hair grows back, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
Q: What is your idea of self-care outside of hair care?
A: Traveling. I love learning about other people, and I think the best way to do that is to travel, have experiences, and enjoy everything the world has to offer. You don’t have to go far either! A new restaurant, neighborhood, or event can be just as inspiring.
Q: Favorite food and guilty-pleasure snack?
A: My favorite foods are Ethiopian and Filipino cuisine. I grew up going to a beautiful Ethiopian restaurant, and my grandmother cooked the best Filipino food, so both are pure comfort for me. Guilty pleasure? Making a soufflé Japanese cheesecake and eating half of it in one sitting!