How to Become a Hairstylist: A Career Guide

When your friends need help looking great before they go out on the town, they turn to you. You’re not an experienced hairstylist by any means, but you do know how to cut and style the hair to some degree. You’ve always thought about going to beauty school, but you’ve been worried about what goes into it.

You’re not sure how to become a hairstylist. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to get to the point where you can have your own salon, but it’s doable.

We can help you get started down this exciting career path. Check out this guide to unlock all the secrets of becoming a hairstylist.

Get the Proper Training

Before you can become a certified salon stylist, you’ve got to get your license which often involves going to school. There should be community colleges in your area that offer programs in the field. Depending on what route you go in, your schooling could last anywhere between a few months to a few years.

It takes a while to learn everything you need to know about coloring, styling, sanitation, and shampooing. Some programs also offer classes in skincare, nails, and other areas of beauty.

Obtain Your License

You can’t begin working at a hair salon until you get your license to do so. You’ll qualify to take a licensing exam as soon as you exit school.

The exact specifications vary from state to state. In most cases, you’ll have to apply to take the test with the local board.

Get a Certification

You don’t have to get a certification. We will tell you that showing you’re an expert in an area such as extensions or coloring will make your resume stand out in a crowd.

By taking these extra classes, you’ll also have more experience that you can use to better serve your clientele

Find a Job

Once you get all your certifications and licensing out of the way, you can seek out hairstylist jobs. Of course, the main place where you’re going to apply is salons, but you shouldn’t rule out hospitals, cruise lines, spas, malls, and other less conventional sources of employment.

Your school might have a job placement program. Don’t be afraid to call and ask for details.

Create a Strong Portfolio

When someone’s hair turns out great, ask them if you can snap a picture. This is a good way to create a portfolio that you can carry with you throughout your career.

Make sure you get both the before and after photos to show potential employers the difference you made to a person’s look.