Career Guide: Hairstylist

A hairstylist is someone who shampoos, cuts, colors and styles men and women’s hair. He is also trained to discuss scalp and hair issues, cut and style wigs, and remove unwanted hair.

Nearly all hairstylists are qualified to cut, style, color and perm men and women’s hair. There are some specialty services, such as Keratin treatments and Brazilian blowouts, that some hairstylists may not be certified to perform. A small percentage of hairstylists work the glamorous job of styling hair for movie stars and models.

Most hairstylists work out of a salon or barber shop. A sizable percentage of stylists own their own businesses, either working out of their homes or renting space from salons or spas. A cosmetology license is needed to work as a hairstylist, and the requirements for that license can vary greatly depending on the state and local laws. There are some stylists that do nails and skincare as well. Hairdressing is a reputable and well-established career that is attractive to many because of its high demand and flexibility of operations. A hairdresser can work as an employee of a salon or as an independent contractor. Hairdressers can be either male or female, and are not gender stereotyped, although barbers are still considered to be mostly male.

About the Guide

This Career Guide provides guidance to people facing a variety of career challenges. These challenges may include dealing with redundancy, seeking a new job, changing careers, returning to work after a career break, building new skills, personal and professional development, going for promotion, and setting up a business. The common aim of the career guide, whatever the particular situation of the individual being guided, is normally to help that individual gain control of their career and, to some extent, their life. This comprehensive resource has been developed to provide you with a road map for your particular area of interest to shape the career as a hairstylist or hairdresser. Whether you are looking for that entry-level position, growing in your respective field, or making a career transition, the means to accomplish your goals are within this resource. The Career Guide looks at what a hairstylist or hairdresser is, the roles and responsibilities they carry out and the essential qualities needed to succeed.