We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Derrick Clark. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Derrick below.

Derrick, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about when you first realized that you wanted to pursue a creative path professionally.

I was always playing in peoples hair as a child. When the opportunity came for me to go to hair school while in high school my mom signed me up! I was able to get a hair license right out of high school! Best decision ever!

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Ive been a hairstylist and colorist with 20 years in the beauty industry. My journey began early — I attended hair school while still in high school — and I’ve been deeply passionate about the art and science of hair ever since. Over the years, I’ve built a career that blends creativity, precision, and education, and I’m proud to now work with Wella, a brand that shares my commitment to innovation and professional excellence.

My specialty lies in customized, dimensional color and precision cutting for textured hair, though I love working with all hair types. What truly sets me apart is my approach to crafting creative, tailored color regimens that honor the unique texture and integrity of each client’s hair. For me, it’s not just about achieving a beautiful end result—it’s about creating a plan that helps clients maintain healthy, vibrant hair long after they leave the chair.

One of my greatest strengths is tenacity—I never shy away from a challenge. Whether it’s transforming a client’s look, troubleshooting a complex color correction, or educating others on best practices for textured hair, I tackle every project with focus and passion.

At heart, I’m an educator. I find immense satisfaction in helping people see themselves in a new way—whether that’s a client seeing their beauty through fresh eyes or another stylist gaining confidence in their craft. My goal is to empower, inspire, and help people embrace their individuality through color, shape, and texture.

Ultimately, I want people to know that my work is about more than hair—it’s about transformation, self-expression, and connection.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

I had to unlearn not putting myself first in this industry. It’s so easy to want to help and pour into people because this is such a people centered profession that I would neglect my own needs. I now take my mental heath days and rest days seriously. Because I’ve learned that I can’t pour from an empty cup.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

When the pandemic hit I had to pivot from behind the chair to now having to make custom wigs that I could ship internationally which helped me to stay afloat and build a brand new clientele.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.dereqchair.com
• Instagram: @dereqc

Image Credits

Credit @dereqc

@wellahairusa