Career Definition for a Hairstylist
Hairstylists work with customers to give them haircuts, style their hair, apply hair coloring and provide scalp treatments. Hairstylists are trained to perform manicures, pedicures and eyebrow shaping. Hairstylists give hair highlights and lowlights, advise clients about hair care techniques and help to sell salon products to clients. Hairstylists can enjoy careers in the entertainment industry, at salons, spas and cosmetology schools, or as freelance stylists.
| Education | Associate's degree in cosmetology |
| Job Skills | Communication and listening skills, marketing and sales ability, adaptability |
| Median Salary (2021)* | $29,670 |
| Job Outlook (2021-2031)* | 11% growth |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Education Requirements
Hairstylists usually need a high school diploma or GED to apply to cosmetology school and typically graduate in 9 months to a year with an associate's degree in cosmetology. Most states require hairstylists to be licensed. In some states, a license is a one-time exam or application, while others require continuing education credits or periodic re-certification. Hairstylists typically take courses like shampooing, coloring, hair care, hair design and styling. Hairstylists continue their education throughout their careers to stay current with technology and hairstyling trends.
Required Skills
Hairstylists need to be good listeners to fulfill the needs of the client. Sales skills are helpful as well because salons often make a profit from the hair care products they sell. The ability to adapt to changing situations is important due to the variety of clients and their needs. Business and marketing skills are vital for hairstylists interested in opening their own salon or barbershop.
Employment and Salary Outlook
Hairstylists were expected to see increase jobs of 11% from 2021-2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS predicted that the rising demand for advanced hair treatments should fuel the growth of these positions. Full-time hairstylists, hairdressers and cosmetologists earned a median yearly wage of $29,670 in 2021, according to the BLS, but many hairstylists are self-employed or work part-time, so actual wages can vary widely.
Alternate Career Options
Similar career options within this field include:
Skincare Specialist
These specialists complete esthetician or cosmetology programs and then pass state licensure exams to fulfill most state's requirements. Skincare specialists evaluate clients' skin, discuss treatments, remove unwanted facial hair, teach makeup techniques and recommend skincare products. In 2021, a median annual salary of $37,300 was reported by the BLS, and faster-than-average job growth of 17% was expected during the 2021-2031, decade.
Manicurist and Pedicurist
Through completion of a cosmetology or nail technician program and earning state licensure required in most states, these professionals clean and shape clients' toenails and fingernails. Faster-than-average employment growth of 22% was projected by the BLS for 2021-2031. A median wage of $29,210 per year was reported for 2021.