How to Become a Hairdresser
Hairdressing requires little academic education but lengthy hands-on training. Most hairdressers complete their training at a cosmetology school and, since job demand for hairdressers is high, quickly obtain hairdressing jobs. They have limitless potential to make money, so long as they work hard at their trade and communicate well with their clients.
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Things You'll Need
- Excellent communication skills education at an accredited cosmetology school an apprenticeship and a state cosmetology license
Instructions
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How to Become a Hairdresser
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Know your state' s requirements for professional hairdressers (those who work at a salon or a beauty shop). All U.S. states require hairdressers to have a cosmetology license. In turn, this license requires you to have a high school diploma or a GED, along with graduation from an accredited cosmetology school.
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Attend a cosmetology school accredited by the National Accrediting Commission Of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). There, you will learn everything from basic hair-cutting to more complex styling and hair-coloring treatments.
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Obtain an apprenticeship position at a salon. This position is often a paid six-month or yearlong position at a salon, where you will be trained by hairdressers. There, you can practice the techniques you're learning from your cosmetology-school textbooks.
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Prepare diligently for your state licensure exam. The cosmetology exam has two components: a written, multiple-choice exam and a performance exam in which you can demonstrate your hair-styling skills to an evaluator. You can study for the exam through books, online study programs or software-based study guides.
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Pass your state licensure exam. The exam usually takes place at a state-assigned testing center. Once you've passed the exam, you will likely become a strong candidate for open positions at many salons.
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Tips & Warnings
Remember that education and training are not the only essentials to becoming a hairdresser. You must be able to listen to your clients so you can give them the exact hairstyle they want. It is also crucial to have a keen grasp of aesthetics. That is, you should know whenever you first meet a new client which hair color and style will best flatter him or her.
