Hairdresser

Introduction

Hairdressers condition, blow-dry, cut, style, perm and colour hair. They may also advise customers about hair products on sale in the salon, and carry out reception duties and deal with money. Some hairdressers are self- employed.

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Work Activities

Hairdressers working in salons talk to their clients to find how they want their hair. They also suggest suitable treatments. Hairdressing may involve shampooing, conditioning, cutting, styling, blow-drying and setting hair. Hairdressers may also perm, colour and bleach hair, or diagnose problems with the hair and scalp.

Men's hairdressers also trim beards and moustaches. Some specialist hairdressers fit wigs. Hairdressers also advise customers about products on sale in the salon and may work at reception. Hairdressers, especially trainees, sweep the floor and make sure towels and supplies are ready for use.

In a small salon, hairdressers may do all the tasks on their own. In larger salons, where there are several members of staff, a trainee or a junior may assist the hairdressers.

Hairdressers should be aware of new trends in hairdressing, new techniques and treatments. Qualified hairdressers are responsible for their own clients. They try to establish a good relationship with clients in order to keep their business. They need to know the various techniques for cutting, perming or colouring. Different products are used, some of which contain chemicals. Hairdressers need to know the effect that these can have on the clients' hair.

Hairdressers working in television and theatre normally have experience in make-up as well.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

As a hairdresser you need to be friendly, polite and able to talk to customers easily. You should work quickly and well with your hands, doing detailed work. A creative, artistic sense and an eye for colour and form is needed, along with an interest in fashion. You should be smart and well groomed.

You need to be fit and able to stand for long periods. The use of treatments that contain chemicals may affect you, if you have sensitive skin. In some cases the treatments can cause problems for people with allergies.

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Pay and Opportunities

Pay rates for hairdressers vary depending on experience and location - the higher earnings are more possible in large urban areas.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Qualified hairdressers earn in the range of £11,500 - £15,000 a year, rising to £17,000 - £20,000. Higher earners can make around £25,000 a year.

Hairdressers work up to 42-hours a week, which normally includes Saturday working. Late finishes on one or two evenings a week may also be required. Opportunities for part-time work are usually available.

Most hairdressers work in salons, which may be one-person businesses or employ several people. Other employers are department stores, luxury hotels, health farms, hospitals and cruise ships.

Some become self-employed, either by becoming a freelance hairdresser - visiting clients in their homes - or by renting a chair in a large salon as a self-employed hairdresser.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have gained relevant skills and abilities as a hairdressers' assistant in a salon.

Colleges will usually consider applications from candidates who don't meet their usual entry requirements. You should check the admissions policy of individual colleges.

There are refresher courses for those returning to hairdressing work.

Modern Apprenticeships, leading to SVQ level 2, may be available in some areas.

• 34% of hairdressers are self-employed.
• 47% work part-time.
• 2% have flexible hours.
• 1% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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