Hair Stylist and Barber Careers
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Hairstylists and Barbers shampoo, cut, and style hair. They often provide other services as well, including hair coloring, manicures, permanent waves, skin treatments, and facial shaving.
Some hair stylists look upon the service they provide as a form of artistic expression, using hair styles and colors to bring out and enhance their clients' best features. Hair stylists and barbers are typically "people" people, and since barbershops and beauty salons are usually key players in preparations for weddings and other festive celebrations, they often take on a "neighborhood cafe" personality.
Licensing
To work as a hair stylist, you must be licensed by your state. Requirements vary from state to state, but typically you must pass a written test and demonstrate basic hair care skills. Vocational schools offer 9- to 24-month hairstyling training programs.
Salary
About half of personal appearance workers are self-employed. Some hairstylists and barbers own their own businesses. Others may lease a chair from a business owner. A significant portion of hairstylists work part-time. The median salaries (including tips and commissions) in 2004 were $19,800 for hairstylists and $21,200 for barbers.
Licensing Requirements
You can find cosmetology career licensing requirements for U.S. states at BeautyTech.com.
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Sources:
- Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2006-2007 Edition; Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.
- BeautyTech: Beauty Professionals Internet Networking