Becoming a Hairstylist: How to Make it in the Beauty Biz as a Pro

Becoming a Hairstylist: How to Make it in the Beauty Biz as a Pro

Becoming a hairstylist is easy. But, making it as a professional in the beauty business requires skill, dedication and hard work. Of course, loving what you do doesn’t hurt either for a lifetime of success.

Whoop, whoop, happy Hump Day hotties, and welcome to Ask the Pro Stylist’s Wednesday’s Q&A. This week’s question comes from a high school senior from California. Liaoi wanted information on becoming a hairstylist.

Hi! I read your article and have 2 questions. How exactly do you start off? I’m in 12th grade, and I know that I want to be hairstylist. How did you manage paying your way through your career?

My first response to Liaoi was to find a cosmetology school, take classes and get licensed. I was fortunate enough to partake in my district’s BOCES program during my junior and senior years of high school. Some areas offer it and others don’t, while some schools provide night classes to become a beautician. There are also tuition alternatives to becoming a hairstylist, and the reader was looking into Paul Mitchell, which is great. I then advised her to always continue education.

However, the second question perplexed me slightly. The world is so different now from when I was first licensed. I was able to work as an assistant two days a week during high school and made great money, enough to buy a brand new car as a senior. I went to college, but continued to work in franchise salons that provided alternative hours.

Salaries from the late 80s and early 90s haven’t changed much for new stylists entering the workforce, but the cost of living has. And most salons won’t hire assistants without a license.

In an Internet world ruled by beauty wannabes it is difficult to dissect the true professionals with those who falsely claim to be. So, here is my advice on becoming a hairstylist, and being able to afford to live.

As soon as you are able, get a job in a salon as an assistant. Find a teaching salon that emphasizes education and training. Your beauty school should be able to recommend salons that are hiring. Work hard, then work harder. Love what you do.

Be seen, pay attention and watch what every stylist and colorist does and how they do it. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Get coffee, smile, be polite and do the most menial tasks. Guests love a friendly attitude, and will compensate with a generous tip when treated pleasantly.

When the owner wants you to get on the floor for a blowout or color application…DO IT! Don’t shy away from showing what you are capable of. Yes, it is intimidating to have all eyes on you, but be CONFIDENT, not COCKY and they will fall in love with you.

Keep a mannequin at home and practice. When she is bald, buy another, and another. Don’t ever stop training and learning what it takes in becoming a hairstylist.

I do hope this helps the query on becoming a hairstylist. Be the best you could be and enjoy the ride. Hairstylists are a fantastic breed of friendly, quirky, fun-loving people that have the distinctive glory of beautifying the world! Welcome aboard!

©Deirdre Haggerty, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this article may be reproduced without prior written permission and consent from the author.