After learning his trade at the Vidal Sassoon Academy in Britain, the former Happy Valley resident returned home to complete his apprenticeship. 'After three years back in Hong Kong I saw an opportunity to open my own salon when rental prices dropped because of Sars. We had to close after two years because the rent doubled, but it was a valuable experience.'

Being informed, and creative with designs are the keys to keeping clients satisfied, said Yuen who, as top stylist, manages the chain's only Beijing establishment in the Shangri-La Hotel. 'Beijing people like to change their style regularly which is different from Hong Kong where people are more conservative,' he said. 'On their first visit clients will ask for suggestions. I usually ask a few questions: what's your job, how do you do your hair at home, what products do you use. We try to learn about their situation.'

Men have more requests, he added. 'Once a client asked me to make him look like Mao Zedong, but his hair wasn't suitable for that. I told him, but I think he idolised Mao and insisted I do it.'

Beijing nightlife and a network of Hong Kong friends in the industry have persuaded Yuen, a part-time club DJ, that the mainland is where he will remain. Earning a Hong Kong salary and accommodation five minutes from the hotel are the rewards.

'My father is a restaurant manager but has always encouraged me as he said it is a trade in which you can find work anywhere in the world. Shanghai appeals to me, but this is the capital and I intend to develop my career here. It's possible to find well paid work as a stylist, especially if you have trained in Hong Kong where the techniques are advanced and more sensitive to fashions. But you need Putonghua and English language skills.'