At Lakmé Salon, education is positioned as infrastructure rather than support. Through Lakmé Academy powered by Aptech, the brand aims to build a workforce that is technically sound and operationally ready. The emphasis is not just on classroom training but on real-world exposure through mandatory internships within salon environments. This integration ensures alignment between theory and on-floor execution.
“Training and education will be the single biggest force shaping the future of India’s beauty industry,” says Vipul Chatturvedi, CEO, Lakmé Lever. As consumer awareness deepens, service consistency, hygiene standards and consultation capability are becoming nonnegotiable. Technical execution alone is insufficient; professionalism and credibility must accompany it.
IDENTIFYING THE SKILL GAPS
Chatturvedi, who has spent over two decades at Lakmé Lever, acknowledges that while India has a large talent pool, several gaps persist. Foundational technique and service consistency require strengthening, particularly in precision-led services such as advanced haircutting, colouring, and skin treatments. Consultation skills also need reinforcement. Professionals must transition from service execution to personalised problem-solving.
“Continuous upskilling remains critical. With evolving technologies, ingredient science, and global trends influencing consumer preferences, professionals must stay current to remain relevant,” he says. Lakmé Academy’s response includes structured modules, hands-on practice and trend-led training aligned with platforms such as Lakmé Fashion Week. The “Runway Excellence Everyday” curriculum ensures fashion-inspired techniques translate effectively into salon services.
ALIGNING EDUCATION WITH INDUSTRY EVOLUTION
Lakmé Lever’s education model reflects shifts in consumer demand. Advanced skin treatments, contemporary nail artistry, specialised bridal services, and male grooming are integrated into the curriculum. Unisex salon formats and rising male grooming demand are addressed through dedicated barbering modules.
Technology integration is another focus. AI-backed diagnostic tools, structured personality development, and consultation training prepare professionals for a digitised salon ecosystem. Sustainability is also embedded, with eco-conscious practices incorporated into training modules.
Structured certification plays a central role. In a competitive industry, certification functions as quality assurance, validating technical capability and hygiene compliance. It differentiates trained professionals and opens access to stronger career pathways and earning potential.
TRAINING
and
EDUCATION
will be the single
BIGGEST FORCE
shaping the
FUTURE
of India’s
BEAUTY INDUSTRY
.
- Vipul Chatturvedi
THE IMPERATIVE OF CONTINUOUS UPSKILLING
“Continuous upskilling is no longer optional,” Chatturvedi notes. Clients today seek science-backed treatments and ingredient transparency. Professionals must understand scalp health, skin physiology, and treatment mechanisms to deliver credible solutions.
Upskilling also influences revenue. Advanced colour techniques, specialised skin services, and ingredient expertise enable premium pricing and higher retention. Equally important is adherence to safety and regulatory standards as treatments become more sophisticated. Beyond technical expertise, digital fluency and personal branding have emerged as essential competencies.
Social media visibility and online consultation skills now intersect with service delivery.
DIGITAL LEARNING AND ACCESSIBILITY
Digital platforms are reshaping training outcomes. Virtual demonstrations, interactive modules, and updated content enhance theoretical understanding and product knowledge. While hands-on practice remains irreplaceable, digital learning accelerates knowledge acquisition and trend alignment.
Lakmé Academy, powered by Aptech, operates across 150+ centres in 62+ cities, including Tier 2 and Tier 3 markets. This geographic reach addresses accessibility gaps in professional education. A structured placement cell connects graduates to salon, spa, and wellness opportunities, linking education directly to employability.
MEASURING IMPACT
Training effectiveness is evaluated through service confidence, consultation capability, client satisfaction, and repeat business metrics. Over time, career progression, skill specialisation, and earnings growth serve as indicators of educational impact within the network.
CHATTURVEDI OFFERS CLEAR GUIDANCE TO YOUNG ENTRANTS:
• Prioritise foundational technique before trend chasing
• Commit to continuous learning and certification
• Develop consultation and communication skills
• Understand product science and safety standards
• Build discipline and professional credibility As India’s beauty sector matures, the leadership narrative is shifting from expansion to standardisation. Vipul Chatturvedi’s perspective reinforces a central thesis: the industry’s next decade will be defined not by scale alone, but by the depth of its training ecosystem. Structured education, measurable certification, and continuous upskilling will determine who leads and who follows.
LAKMÉ ACADEMY AT A GLANCE
• 150+ centres across 62+ cities
• Structured certification programs
• Mandatory salon internships
• Curriculum aligned with fashion-led trends
• Placement support for graduates