A job in hair styling can be very creative, rewarding, and lucrative. But to be a professional hair stylist, you’ll need more than just a knack for styling hair. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a professional hair stylist.
Table of Contents
- 1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
- 2. Complete A Cosmetology Program
- 3. Pass The Cosmetology Licensing Exam
- 4. Find a Job
- 5. Gain The Necessary Hands-on Practice
- 6. Earn Additional Certifications
- 7. Build Up Your Portfolio
- 8. Market Yourself
- 9. Continuing Education
- 10. Stay up-to-date on Trends
- Final Thought
1. Earn a High School Diploma or GED
You’ll need a high school diploma or GED to be eligible for most cosmetology programs. Some programs may have additional requirements, such as a minimum age of 16 or 17.
2. Complete A Cosmetology Program
Most states require hair stylists to be licensed, and the best way to become licensed is by completing a cosmetology program. Cosmetology programs typically take about 12-18 months to complete and cover topics such as hair cutting, coloring, styling, chemistry, facial treatments, and state laws and regulations.
3. Pass The Cosmetology Licensing Exam
To become licensed, you’ll need to pass a written and practical exam. The written exam will test your knowledge of cosmetology theory, and the practical exam will require you to demonstrate your skills in hair styling.
4. Find a Job
Once you’re licensed, you can start working as a hair stylist. You may find employment in a salon, spa, or barbershop, or you may choose to work as a freelance hair stylist.
5. Gain The Necessary Hands-on Practice
While working as a hair stylist, you’ll need to continuously hone your skills and keep up with the latest trends. The best way to do this is to get as much hands-on experience as possible. Attend hair shows and workshops, practice new styles on friends and family members, and read industry publications to stay current on the latest trends.
6. Earn Additional Certifications
If you want to specialize in certain hair treatments or styles, you may want to consider earning additional certifications. For example, you could become certified in hair extensions, facial waxing, or color therapy. There are many different certification programs available, so do some research to find one that’s right for you.
7. Build Up Your Portfolio
As a hair stylist, your portfolio is essential. It’s how you’ll show potential clients your skills and style. To build up your portfolio, start by doing free or discounted styles for friends, family, and anyone else who’s willing to be your model. As you get more experience, you can start charging for your services.
8. Market Yourself
To succeed as a professional hair stylist, you’ll need to market yourself effectively. Start by creating a strong online presence. Make sure your website and social media profiles are up-to-date and showcase your best work. You should also consider investing in some advertising, such as print advertisements or online ads.
9. Continuing Education
To maintain your license, you’ll need to complete continuing education courses on a regular basis. These courses help ensure that you stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques in hair styling.
10. Stay up-to-date on Trends
Hair styles are always changing, so it’s important that you stay up-to-date on the latest trends. A good way to do this is to follow some of the top hair stylists on social media and subscribe to industry publications. This will help ensure that you’re always ahead of the curve when it comes to hair styling.
Final Thought
Becoming a professional hair stylist takes time, effort, and dedication. But if you’re passionate about styling hair and providing clients with exceptional service, it can be a very rewarding career.
