**Ariana Madix Shines in Season 8 of Love Island USA with Help from Celebrity Hairstylist Carl Bembridge**
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Ariana Madix has made her exciting return to the host position of Season 8 of *Love Island USA*, bringing her signature style to the sunny shores of Fiji. This marks the third time the reality television star has hosted the popular dating competition series on Peacock, and she has certainly captured attention with her stunning looks, courtesy of renowned hairstylist Carl Bembridge.
Bembridge, whose impressive portfolio includes work with celebrities like Ariana Grande and Nicole Scherzinger, has been collaborating with Madix since her debut in the *Love Island* universe in 2023. Known for her ever-evolving style, Madix is described by Bembridge as a “chameleon” in the beauty and fashion space. Each season presents an opportunity for reinvention, and this year is no exception.
In preparation for filming, Bembridge arrived in Fiji with an astonishing amount of hair products, transporting over 70 pounds of supplies across three suitcases. He quips about security personnel often giving him puzzled looks as they discover the extensive array of hair extensions and tools he carries for the season. This year, he partnered with Bellami to create what he refers to as a “hairdrobe,” or a comprehensive collection of hair options to complement Madix’s wardrobe.
According to Bembridge, the hairstyling process starts well before filming begins. He collaborates closely with Madix’s stylist, Emily Men, who curates her outfits for the series. “Some outfits require elegant, flowing hair, while others allow for more creative hairstyles,” he shared with PEOPLE. For this season, Madix sports a rich chocolate brown hair colour as her base, which serves as a blank canvas for the elaborate styles planned throughout the season.
So far, Madix has been seen flaunting an array of looks, including long mermaid waves with sun-kissed highlights, a chic beachy updo, and a sleek ponytail. Bembridge prides himself on mixing things up by incorporating various coloured extensions to enhance Madix’s natural beauty. “I have clip-ins in various lengths and shades, alongside ponytails and tape extensions to diversify our looks throughout the series,” he explained.
Fiji’s humid climate poses a challenge for hairstyling, but Bembridge has shipped in tools to combat the island’s weather. He employs a cordless straightening iron and utilises Color Wow’s Extra Strength Dream Coat, an anti-frizz treatment, to keep Madix’s hair looking pristine. “Humidity can be a struggle, especially when everything around us gets damp,” he remarked.
Behind the scenes, the atmosphere is light-hearted and enjoyable. Bembridge reflects on how he and Madix, along with her glam squad, have established fun, pre-show rituals during their time together. “After spending this much time together, we’ve become like a family,” he revealed.
He commended Madix for her easy-going nature, which allows his creativity to flourish. Working on *Love Island* extends beyond mere styling; it transforms into a lengthy session of glam, unlike other projects that are more focused and brief. “Being in Fiji gives me a chance to showcase a range of looks within the same period, making us a great duo,” he added.
Expectant viewers have a treat in store as the season develops, and the glam team’s continuous evolution of Madix’s hairstyles promises to keep audiences captivated. Their routine also includes catching up on the show together, making it a collective experience. “We often spend three hours getting ready, and it’s an enjoyable time filled with good energy,” shared Bembridge.
As Season 8 progresses, Ariana Madix’s stunning looks and dynamic partnership with Carl Bembridge are set to be highlighted even further, inviting fans to tune in for all the latest glamour and drama that *Love Island USA* has to offer.