Curiosity Has Kept Me Going for 25 Years in This Industry, Says Hair Expert Rochelle Chhabra

Last Updated:September 23, 2025, 18:19 IST

Rochelle Chhabra shares insights from her 25-year journey in the hair, beauty industry, highlighting curiosity, humility, and the balance between fundamentals and evolving trends

In the ever-evolving world of beauty and haircare, staying relevant requires not just technical expertise, but also curiosity, humility, and the ability to adapt. Few embody this balance better than Rochelle Chhabra, Head of Streax Professional, who has spent more than 25 years shaping trends, mentoring professionals, and driving innovation in the industry.

Curiosity and Passion

Reflecting on her journey from R&D to leadership and education, Chhabra credits her curiosity as the cornerstone of her career. “I’ve always been a very curious person. Whether it was during my time in R&D or today as a leader, I constantly ask what’s new, what’s trending, and what’s needed by professionals and clients alike? That habit of questioning keeps me evolving.”

Alongside curiosity, she emphasizes passion: “Whatever I do, I do it wholeheartedly. If you truly immerse yourself into understanding a concept or creating a product, it always pays off.”

Beyond Skills: Why Relationships and Humility Matter

Having trained over 100,000 stylists worldwide, Chhabra believes that success in this creative industry isn’t only about mastering techniques. “Of course, creativity is essential,” she explains, “but equally important is the relationship a stylist builds with their client. A good stylist is like a doctor—someone you trust completely to prescribe what’s best for you. That trust is powerful.”

She warns, however, that fame can sometimes lead to arrogance. “Humility is vital. No matter how successful you are, gratitude and respect for your craft and clients must remain. This industry is built on relationships, and clients can sense when that connection is lost.”

Balancing Timeless Fundamentals with Constant Change

Hair and beauty trends are notorious for shifting quickly, but for Chhabra, the secret lies in balancing innovation with fundamentals. “We have a strong research team that studies global trends. With social media and digital exposure, people today are aware of international styles instantly. So, we bring those inspirations in, but always adapt them for Indian hair and consumer needs.”

She also highlights the rise of professional education as a turning point. “Earlier, many salon owners inherited the business from family, but today, hair and beauty are seen as legitimate career choices. Students are entering with passion and ambition, which is why education and awareness are more important than ever.”

Walking the Talk

Chhabra admits she often serves as the brand’s first test subject. “Every product we launch, I try it on myself first. From bold hair colors to treatments, I want to ensure the result is something I’d confidently recommend. My team laughs at me for constantly changing styles, but it gives me conviction.”

Empowerment Over Expansion

Interestingly, despite leading one of India’s most recognized professional brands, Chhabra has no interest in running her own salon. “My forte is in empowering salons and stylists, not competing with them. I’d rather focus my energy on educating professionals and giving them the right tools than managing a salon myself. That’s what Streax Professional stands for empowerment.”

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