After finishing his training at Washington, D.C's prestigious Graham Webb Academy and working at one of the city's top salons, Scott King packed his bags and moved to Los Angeles in 2012 to further his career. Years later, he's living the life he'd always dreamt of—working on editorial shoots, music videos and red carpet events, and styling stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Becky G and Bailee Madison—but that's not to say it came easy. Read on to hear what King wishes he knew back then, his favorite products and the one moment he's exceptionally proud of from his career thus far.
If you could tell your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
To not compare my career with others’; everyone has their own path and everything happens for a reason. Also, to be nice and respectful, always. You don’t want to be known as someone who is great at what they do for a living but a mean or rude person.
Name three hair products you can’t live without.
I can’t live without Virtue 6-in-1 styler before a blow-dry, Oribe Dry Texture Spray to give the hair that perfect undone finish, and Elnett Hairspray because it holds a style and you can brush it out without flakiness.
What is one highlight from you’re career that you’re most proud of?
I've always dreamt of working at a Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, and this past year I did the hair for Kelsea Ballerini, who performed with the Chainsmokers during the show. I had to pinch myself a few times just being there—I couldn't believe I was finally doing it.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received?
I can’t think of one specifically, but I love when I receive messages from people saying they look up to me and my career. Also, it's a great feeling to receive praise for my work from other hairstylists I look up to. It's further proof that there is enough room for everyone in this industry, regardless of how competitive it may seem at times.
Who do you follow on Instagram?
@lisarinna —her stories are iconic
@dannypellegrino —I love anything Bravo and pop culture-related
@allanface—he’s a super-talented makeup artist and friend of mine and his energy is contagious
@kristin_ess —her feed is stunning and I love seeing her hairline at Target have so much success