Joi Gayles

I have had a lifelong love affair with hair and have been passionate about the links between hair, health and nature.

My experiences include many facets of the beauty industry (a salon owner, master stylist, educator, platform artist and a natural healer by nature.

From the beginning, I was fascinated with the chemistry of hair products.  Through the years, I studied chemicals used in hair care, aromatherapy and herbs.  Each head of hair and scalp has its own characteristics and nuances  that need to be approached accordingly.

During my years of practice with a multicultural clientele my holistic concept developed with the understanding that ~

•  Hair goes through changes during a lifetime

•  When you accept the characteristics of your hair, and 'make peace with what you have', a balance can come about

•  When you address the whole body with a healthful attitude, your hair shows off your efforts.

Natural remedies for hair and scalp based on Herbal Infusions and Aromatherapy are the foundation of my practice.

I enjoy bringing a fresh perspective to hair care,

 'simple, natural and multicultural'

using a delicate balance of beauty, nature and science

I create unique experiences for each Hair Therapy session.

My journey through the world of beauty has had many stops,  and taken me several places around the globe -gathering experience, education and appreciation for cultural differences.

"Beauty is in the eye of the beholder but lives within each of us".

I started my career at Lytle's Redwood Empire Beauty college in 1983, where I was fortunate to study wtih Ed and Kathy Lytle. During my education I was allowed to learn, explore, question and grow as much as I could.  I then went on to get my cosmetology instructor's license and taught at the beauty college for many years.

From there I became an educator & platform artist for KMS.  I traveled the states teaching my peers hair color and styling techniques.  In 1988 myself and 2 partners started Sausalito Signatures, Soon after, I was sole owner where for the next 26 years I created a community that was multicultural and  focused on education, health, beauty and fun.

Entertaining provided a way of promotion and uniting people.  Signatures became known within the community as a place where hair, fashion shows,  great live music and  local artists met.  Teaching provided opportunities for me to experience different learning styles and methods of communicating, which has enhanced my relationships with clients.

From there Studio Joi was born and  now resides in Mill Valley, CA  combining the experiences and knowledge focusing on Hair Therapy.