The 2025 AOBC Awards
Categories

Participants must select the competition category that best matches their area of expertise, ensuring the work submitted aligns with the specific techniques, standards, and outcomes expected for that category.

Permanent Makeup Tattoo

Nanostroke:

Eyebrow Tattoo Nano Stroke competition entries are expected to demonstrate exceptional precision, control, and artistry in creating ultra-fine, hair-like strokes that mimic the natural growth pattern of real eyebrow hairs. Judges look for clean, crisp lines with consistent depth, direction, and spacing, as well as a natural gradient effect that complements the client's facial structure and skin tone. Mastery of pigment saturation, symmetry, and overall design harmony is essential to achieving a realistic, refined, and long-lasting result that defines excellence in nano brow artistry.

Microblading:

Microblading competition entries are expected to exhibit refined technique and artistic precision in creating fine, hair-like strokes that replicate the natural flow and density of real eyebrows. Judges assess the consistency of stroke direction, depth, and spacing, along with smooth pigment implantation and a soft, natural gradient. Entries should demonstrate a deep understanding of facial symmetry, brow mapping, and pigment selection to achieve realistic, well-balanced brows that harmonize with the client's features and skin tone.

Ombre:

Ombre Brows competition entries are expected to showcase expert shading technique and smooth pigment transitions that create a soft, gradient effect—from a lighter, airy front to a more defined and saturated tail. Judges look for even saturation, clean edges, flawless pixelation, and a symmetrical shape that complements the client’s bone structure. The ideal ombre brow displays balance, depth, and artistry, resulting in a polished, powdery finish that mimics the look of softly filled-in makeup while maintaining a natural appearance.

Combination:

Combination Brows competition entries are expected to seamlessly blend the precision of hair-like strokes with the softness of shading to create natural yet defined eyebrows. Judges assess the harmony between crisp microbladed or nano strokes—typically placed at the front or throughout the brow—and smooth, gradient shading that adds depth and fullness. Excellence in this category requires flawless pigment implantation, stroke clarity, symmetry, and a balanced transition between techniques, resulting in a multidimensional brow that enhances the client’s natural features with both realism and structure.

Soft Pixel:

Soft Pixel Brows competition entries are expected to demonstrate refined machine shading techniques that produce a delicate, airy finish using pixelated dots rather than solid fills. Judges look for even pigment distribution, consistent pixel spacing, smooth gradients, and clean edges, all while maintaining natural symmetry and brow shape. The result should be a soft, powdery look with a light-to-dark transition that enhances the brow without appearing heavy or overly saturated—showcasing both technical control and artistic subtlety.

Eyelash Extension

Classic:

Classic Style eyelash extension competition entries are expected to demonstrate refined technique, precise 1:1 lash application, and perfect symmetry. The focus is on enhancing natural beauty with seamless attachment, uniform direction, and consistent lash length and curl, resulting in a clean, elegant, and timeless look that showcases the artist’s control and precision."

2D Volume:

2D Volume eyelash extension competition entries are expected to highlight skilled fan creation with two ultra-fine lashes per natural lash, demonstrating precision, balance, and smooth application. The look should emphasize light volume with clean symmetry, seamless attachment, and a soft, fluffy finish that enhances the natural lash line while maintaining elegance and control.

3D Volume:

3D Volume eyelash extension competition entries are expected to showcase expert craftsmanship in creating symmetrical, lightweight fans with three ultra-fine lashes per natural lash. Judging focuses on consistent fan width, smooth bases, flawless application, and perfect symmetry, resulting in a fuller yet still airy and refined lash look that enhances the eyes with elegance and precision.

4-6D Volume:

4–6D Volume eyelash extension competition entries are expected to demonstrate advanced volume techniques through the creation of perfectly balanced fans using 4 to 6 ultra-fine lashes per natural lash. Judges will evaluate the precision of fan symmetry, seamless base attachment, and consistent density throughout the lash line. The final look should be dark, fluffy, and voluminous, while maintaining a lightweight, clean, and elegant finish that reflects expert control and artistry.

Coloured:

Coloured Style eyelash extension competition entries are expected to creatively incorporate colored lashes while maintaining precision, symmetry, and flawless application. Artists should demonstrate skillful use of color theory, blending, and placement to enhance eye shape and design. Whether used for subtle accents or bold, vibrant effects, the color must be intentional, balanced, and cohesive, resulting in a striking yet harmonious lash look that showcases both technical expertise and artistic flair.

Creative:

Creative Style eyelash extension competition entries are expected to push the boundaries of traditional lash artistry through bold, imaginative design, meticulous application, and flawless symmetry. Artists are encouraged to experiment with dramatic lengths, unique curls, vibrant colours, and embellishments such as crystals, feathers, or graphic shapes to create visually stunning, avant-garde lash looks that tell a story and captivate the eye.

Russian:

Russian Style eyelash extension competition entries are expected to demonstrate exceptional volume, flawless fan creation, precise application, and perfect symmetry, showcasing artistic use of lash layering, curl, and density to create bold, dramatic, yet elegant looks that define the essence of Russian lash artistry.

Hybrid:

Hybrid Style eyelash extension competition entries are expected to showcase a creative blend of classic and volume techniques, with precise application, harmonious symmetry, and artistic use of varied lengths, curls, and textures to create a multidimensional, soft-yet-striking lash look that reflects both subtle elegance and bold flair.

Nails

Artistic Painting:

Nail artistic painting competition entries are expected to demonstrate exceptional creativity, precision, and control through miniature, hand-painted designs. Judges look for balanced composition, clean lines, innovative themes, and skilled use of color and detail. Each nail should contribute to a cohesive visual story, showcasing artistic flair and technical mastery that push the boundaries of traditional nail art.

French manicure:

French Style nail artistic painting competition entries are expected to embody elegance, precision, and refined technique. Judges focus on the flawless execution of classic French elements—such as crisp smile lines, balanced proportions, and seamless transitions between the nail bed and tip. Whether traditional or modernized with subtle artistic twists, entries should maintain the clean, sophisticated aesthetic that defines French style while showcasing control, symmetry, and a polished finish.

Manicure with nail polish:

Manicure with nail polish competition entries are expected to demonstrate flawless nail preparation, precise polish application, and overall hand aesthetics. Judges assess clean cuticle work, even nail shaping, and smooth, streak-free polish with consistent color coverage and a glossy, chip-free finish. Entries should reflect attention to detail, proper technique, and a professional standard of cleanliness and refinement that highlights the beauty of natural nails enhanced with polish.

Manicure with gel polish:

Manicure with gel polish competition entries are expected to demonstrate expert nail preparation, flawless gel application, and a high-gloss, long-lasting finish. Judges assess the precision of cuticle work, even nail shaping, and smooth, streak-free color coverage with clean edges and consistent thickness. The overall look should reflect professionalism, attention to detail, and durability, showcasing both technical control and aesthetic elegance in every aspect of the manicure.

Mix Media:

Manicure with nail polish competition entries are expected to demonstrate flawless nail preparation, precise polish application, and overall hand aesthetics. Judges assess clean cuticle work, even nail shaping, and smooth, streak-free polish with consistent color coverage and a glossy, chip-free finish. Entries should reflect attention to detail, proper technique, and a professional standard of cleanliness and refinement that highlights the beauty of natural nails enhanced with polish.

Nail Modelling:

Nail Modelling competition entries are expected to demonstrate advanced technical skill in sculpting flawless nail extensions with perfect structure, symmetry, and surface smoothness. Judges evaluate the consistency of shape and length across all nails, precision in apex placement, C-curve, and cuticle area finish. The final result should showcase both functionality and beauty, highlighting control, cleanliness, and artistic excellence in form and finish—whether in classic shapes like square and almond or extreme shapes such as stiletto and edge.

Brow Styling

Eyebrow lamination:

Eyebrow lamination competition entries are expected to demonstrate precision, control, and a deep understanding of brow styling through the restructuring of brow hairs to achieve a fuller, lifted, and symmetrical appearance. Judges evaluate clean application technique, proper hair direction, brow mapping accuracy, and an overall polished finish. The ideal result should enhance the natural brow shape while maintaining a soft, natural texture—showcasing the artist's skill in creating balanced, well-groomed brows that suit the model’s facial features.

Henna:

Henna Eyebrow competition entries are expected to demonstrate precise brow mapping, clean application, and expert tinting technique using henna. Judges assess the sharpness of shape, even color saturation on both hair and skin, and a well-blended ombré effect from bulb to tail. The final result should enhance the natural brow while maintaining symmetry, crisp lines, and a stain that flatters the client’s skin tone—showcasing both artistry and technical control in achieving defined yet natural-looking brows

Eyelash lamination:

Eyelash Lamination competition entries are expected to demonstrate precise technique, lash health preservation, and a beautifully lifted, natural curl that enhances the eye's appearance. Judges evaluate lash separation, consistent curl direction, root lift, and overall symmetry. The final result should showcase clean, well-nourished lashes with a smooth, glossy finish—reflecting expert product application, correct rod sizing, and attention to detail in creating a wide-eyed, elegant effect without the need for extensions.

Makeup

Smoky Eyes:

Smokey Eyes Makeup competition entries are expected to demonstrate flawless blending, depth, and precision in creating a gradient eye look that transitions seamlessly from dark to light tones. Judges assess symmetry, intensity control, color harmony, and a clean finish around the eyes. The final result should showcase dramatic dimension, smooth transitions, and enhanced eye shape—highlighting the artist’s skill in achieving a bold yet sophisticated smokey effect with both creativity and technical mastery.

Wedding Makeup:

Wedding Makeup competition entries are expected to embody elegance, harmony, and long-lasting perfection suitable for one of the most important days in a client’s life. Judges evaluate flawless skin preparation, seamless foundation blending, soft contouring, and a radiant finish. Eye makeup should enhance the bride’s natural beauty, with balanced use of color, lash application, and brow definition. The overall look must be cohesive, timeless, and camera-ready—highlighting the artist’s ability to create a romantic, refined, and durable bridal look that complements both the individual features and the wedding style.

Art Makeup:

Art Makeup competition entries are expected to showcase creativity, innovation, and technical mastery through bold, imaginative designs that transcend conventional beauty standards. Judges assess the originality of the concept, precision of execution, symmetry, and the harmonious integration of colors, textures, and materials. Entries may incorporate elements such as face painting, graphic lines, rhinestones, body art, or theatrical themes. The final result should tell a visual story, evoke emotion, and demonstrate the artist's ability to transform the face into a living canvas of expressive, avant-garde artistry.

Beautician

The Best Facial Spa Therapist:

The Best Facial Spa Therapist competition entries are expected to demonstrate exceptional technique, precision, and a deep understanding of skin care principles. Judges assess consistency of treatment, product knowledge, hygiene standards, client comfort, and visible skin results. The final outcome should showcase enhanced skin health, relaxation, and rejuvenation—highlighting the therapist’s expertise in delivering a luxurious, effective facial experience with both professionalism and advanced technical skill.

Top Skin Specialist:

Top Skin Specialist competition entries are expected to demonstrate advanced expertise in skin analysis, treatment precision, and a comprehensive understanding of skin health. Judges assess accuracy of diagnosis, treatment customization, product knowledge, hygiene protocols, and measurable skin improvements. The final result should showcase healthier, balanced, and visibly improved skin—highlighting the specialist’s ability to deliver results-driven care with professionalism, innovation, and technical mastery.

Best Anti-aging Expert:

Best Anti-Aging Expert competition entries are expected to demonstrate advanced knowledge of skin aging, precision in treatment techniques, and a results-driven approach to skin rejuvenation. Judges assess accuracy of skin analysis, effectiveness of anti-aging protocols, product and technology expertise, safety and hygiene standards, and visible improvements in skin firmness, texture, and radiance. The final outcome should showcase youthful, revitalized skin—highlighting the expert’s ability to deliver transformative anti-aging results with innovation, professionalism, and technical mastery.

Excellence in Facial Therapy:

Excellence in Facial Therapy entries are expected to demonstrate outstanding proficiency in facial techniques, precise skin analysis, and a comprehensive understanding of skin health. Judges assess treatment consistency, customization to individual skin needs, product knowledge, hygiene standards, client comfort, and visible skin improvements. The final result should showcase balanced, radiant, and revitalized skin—highlighting the therapist’s ability to deliver exceptional facial treatments with professionalism, care, and technical mastery.

The 2025 AOBC Awards Categories