South African- born hairstylist, make-up artist and salon owner of Hollywood Hair 2, Yentl Snyman grew up surrounded by creativity and a passion for beauty. While Yentl inherited her love and talent for hair styling and make-up from her stylist mother Rennie Fensham, she has since established herself independently and has become a stylist and salon owner in her own right. Yentl divides her time between her salon, Hollywood Hair 2 in Sai Kung, and Hollywood Hair @ Glow Spa in Central; both of which have become household names among South Africans in Hong Kong.

Where in South Africa were you born?

I was born in a town called Rustenburg in the North West province of South Africa.

What brought you to Hong Kong?

My dad was recruited through a fitness agency and my mom and I tagged along for the adventure.

How long have you lived here?

I have been in and out of Hong Kong over the years. I came to Hong Kong in 2004 for the first time and stayed for two and a half years before moving back to South Africa. The second time around I’ve been back since 2010.

What pays the bills in Hong Kong?

I’m a hair and make-up stylist at two of Hong Kong’s top salons. I am also a Keratin Bond and Tape Extension specialist (service available at the Central salon). I also facilitate hair and make-up training in the industry.

What work did you do before coming to Hong Kong?

I did exactly the same back in South Africa. I had my own salon. Hair and make-up is my passion and a gift!

What would your dream job be if you weren’t a hair stylist and make-up artist?

I would definitely want to be a vet. Being surrounded by animals 24/7 is my idea of a dream career.

What is your favourite part of your job?

There are loads, but the fact that I get paid to play with people’s hair all day is definitely right up there. I would do it for free if I didn’t have bills to pay. Lol! I also love it when a client messages me the next day or week, or even a month or six after I’ve seen them saying that it’s been the best haircut or colour they’ve had. That makes me super happy!

What is your favourite thing about Hong Kong?

All the opportunities and possibilities (and of course the amazing variety of food).

What do you miss most about South Africa?

My friends and family.

What is your favourite place in South Africa?

The Pilanesberg National Park and Game Reserve.

What is your favourite South African expression / saying?

I have too many, but “jy weet mos” is definitely one of my favourites.

What iconic hairstyle or cut do you love most?

I love the ‘Meg Ryan Shag’. This wash-and-wear haircut helped make hairstylist Sally Hershberger a household name.

In all your years in the industry, what is one hair or make-up trend that you just don’t understand?

Very thin plucked / tweezed / drawn on eyebrows is definitely a pet peeve of mine.

Who would ever have thought that you would be able to get your hair done in Hong Kong by a South African hairstylist while chatting about home over a comforting cup of Rooibos tea? Us South African ladies in Hong Kong (especially the blondes), are truly lucky to have such a passionate and talented hairstylist in Hong Kong!

 

Yentl can be contacted for appointments at:

Hollywood Hair 2 (211 G/F Wong Chuk Wan Village Tai Mong Tsai Road, Sai Kung)

Phone: 6903 7710

Email: hh2@hollywoodhair.com.hk

and

Hollywood Hair @ Glow Salon (Parker House, 9/F, 72 Queen’s Road Central, Central)

Phone: 2525 5198