Enniscorthy Entrepreneur Wins National Hair and Beauty Award

An Enniscorthy entrepreneur is gaining national recognition in the haircare industry, while also highlighting the importance of support for women balancing business and family life.

Keara Howard, founder of The Hair Doctor, recently won Best Irish Brand 2026 at the Passoã Hair and Beauty Awards for her innovative shower filter, designed to combat common hair issues such as hard water damage.

Keara, who also runs Scissor Sisterz salon alongside her sister Tanya, developed the product while juggling the demands of running a business and raising a family. She says that balance is something many women in business continue to navigate.

Speaking on Morning Mix, she praised the support she received from her Local Enterprise Office, particularly in helping women return to work and build sustainable careers.

“The LEO office in Wexford has been absolutely amazing to me and they've supported me. I suppose I'm in an industry that is female-led, I don't see any differences, but the LEO office is great at supporting women to get back into work and do something that's more life-work balanced. Our priority is our kids and then you're wanting to work. The LEO office has pushed me so far.”

She also highlighted opportunities provided through that support, including representing the county at national level.

“We represented County Wexford at the Ploughing Championships there last September. They're just brilliant.”

Keara’s success story reflects not only innovation in the beauty sector, but also the growing impact of female-led businesses in the region. She says continued support for entrepreneurs will be key to ensuring more women can thrive in business without sacrificing family priorities.