Los Angeles–based hairstylist Larry Sims credits being from the West Side of Chicago as the reason that he’s “inspired by styles that move the culture in my community.” Sims — whose résumé includes working with Janet Jackson and Lupita Nyong’o and co-founding the Flawless hair-care brand with his bestie and client, Gabrielle Union — says, “I’m able to pull from those inspirations and create styles for celebrities in an elevated way.”
His career began not in the salon but in the studio, starting as a professional dancer at just 16 years old. After touring in South Africa, Europe, and more, he moved to Los Angeles and booked gigs with Missy Elliott, Dreamgirls, and Stomp the Yard. “Being exposed to the different facets of the industry and how hairstylists weren’t only in salons sparked a magnetic interest in pursuing a career in beauty,” he says. After booking a dance gig with Jessica Simpson and meeting her hairstylist, Ken Pavés, he worked with Victoria Beckham. “That job changed my life,” Sims says. “People definitely paid attention and started calling during the bob era.”
Ultimately, Sims switched gears, heading to cosmetology school at 27. “It’s the Harvard of hair schools,” he says of Chicago’s Pivot Point International. “I love being able to transform how people see themselves. It’s self-confidence reimagined.”
Below, Sims shares his morning beauty routine, what rest means to him, and so much more.
A.M. Routine
I start my day by reading spiritual quotes, affirmations, and meditation. I make sure to hydrate with my alkaline water. The time I start varies based on if I have to work. I’m usually up by 7 a.m. to feed my two dogs, Noni and Brixton, regardless. I wash my face with Nivea Facial Scrub for men. It’s a gentle daily exfoliation that leaves my skin with an amazing glow. I then shave my head with Harry’s Foaming Shave Gel. It smells amazing and is super moisturizing. I use my Gillette 5 Blade Razor on my head for a clean and smooth shave. Next, I shower with my Goop Natural Bristle Body Brush to remove dead skin cells. It also provides great blood circulation. My go-to body wash is Native Sandalwood & Shea Butter — it smells sexy and moisturizes my skin. After showering, I hit my eyes with Bausch + Lomb Lumify Eye Drops to immediately get rid of red eyes.
Next, I moisturize my face and head with Neutrogena Hydro Boost Water Gel. It leaves both my face and head really hydrated. I add three drops of Black Currant Oil to my face from the Things We Do, as it gives my face a beautiful vibrancy. I then moisturize my body with a combo of Royale Body Butter and Baby Oil Gel. It gives my skin a luminous glow with tones of moisture. Next up is picking out a ’fit and applying my secret oil-and-fragrance combo.
P.M. Routine
When you look and feel your best, you can conquer the world. Self-care and rest sets you up for success in all aspects of life, in my opinion. Detaching myself from all devices and relaxing at home with my dogs is the perfect remedy for rest. I’m in the business of service where I’m constantly depositing into people. You have to replenish your mind, body, and soul to be able to continue to give yourself.
On Movement
As a former dancer, my body craves intense cardio and movement. I love taking spin, high-circuit, and boxing classes. They alleviate stress and tension, are great for your skin and body, and release endorphins that are calming. They create a great balance in everyday life.
On the Beauty Items He’s Noticed a Difference From:
Manicures and pedicures are a must. Steaming is mandatory. Sitting in steam not only is great for your skin but also for detoxing your body. And then, of course, my eye drops have to come at all times. I’m no good if I can’t see.
