What Do I Need to Become a Hair Stylist?
Cosmetology is an occupation that will be in demand, as long as there are clients who want to have their hair styled and their nails polished. Finding a job in this field requires specific classroom and hands-on training. These workers may be self-employed or work for a hair salon. Hair stylists perform services that range from shampooing, highlighting and cutting to a variety of other hair services.
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Education
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Most hairstyling schools and employers require a high school diploma. The hair stylist must complete a training class, offered at most vocational schools or local colleges, before getting a license. The training school should have accreditation from the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Cosmetology courses will include skin care, hair styling techniques and other courses relating to offering hair care services. Cosmetology training classes can take from nine months to a year. Those who desire to become managers or operate their own salon may obtain an associate's degree in cosmetology and take regular training classes to help update them on current practices.
License
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After the hair stylist has completed a training class, she must apply for a license from the state's Board of Cosmetology in the state where the hair stylist wishes to practice. A written exam is a requirement, and it covers practices and techniques learned in cosmetology school. Some states may require hair stylists take an oral exam as well.
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Skills
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Hair stylists should have solid communication skills because interpersonal relationships will improve customer satisfaction and build long-term client relationships. Communication skills are helpful in helping clients understand what type of hair treatments they will receive, and the stylist must communicate with the client in creating hairstyles that are acceptable.
Tools
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A hair stylist should have a dependable set of tools for styling clients' hair. This includes a pair of professional shears, clippers, blow dryer, brushes, combs and curling irons. Curling irons should be a variety of sizes. Many hair stylists also use mannequins to assist them in practicing different styles of hair. Classroom training courses may suggest additional tools, such as curlers and pins, that can assist with styling.
Good health
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Hair stylists must be in good health because their job may require them to work long hours while standing. They also risk exposure to chemicals such as hair dye and relaxers.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit combing hair image by Mat Hayward from Fotolia.com
