What Does It Take to Be a Hair Stylist?

Certified and skillful hair stylists are always in demand. The beauty industry is constantly growing, even in hard economic times. To become a hair stylist, one must obtain the required education, skills and certifications. After this time, experience and clients are also needed. One of the greatest skills needed to become a hair stylist is the desire to succeed and the love of styling hair; without those qualities, you may find that you are the wrong fit for the industry.

Education

The first step to becoming a stylist is to obtain the appropriate education from a two-year community college or beauty school. A certificate in cosmetology is usually a one-year program, while an Associate's degree in cosmetology takes two years.

Skills

A hair stylist must have great eye and hand coordination, and he should be very skilled with hair tools and products.

Hair Care

Hair stylists must have--at minimum--a basic understanding of hair care (how hair grows and what causes breakage). Many think that they just have to make hair look pretty, but stylists may find themselves being sued if they use the wrong products on the wrong types of hair.

Certifications and Licensure

A hair stylist must be licensed by her state board to be permitted to style hair. The state board certifications consist of a couple of tests that prove the stylist's knowledge of hair care and techniques.

Continued Education

Staying up on the latest styles and techniques is a very important role for a hair stylist. Clients want to stay with the latest fashion trends, and it is your job to provide them with what they want.