Hairdresser/Barber

Tasks & duties

Hairdressers/barbers may do some or all of the following:

• consult with clients about the style or cut they want
• cut and blow-wave clients' hair
• sell haircare products
• treat and recommend products for hair and scalp problems
• clean and sanitise the equipment and the work area
• help train other hairdressers/barbers
• run their own businesses
• do the banking and other bookkeeping tasks

Hairdressers:

• wash, colour or highlight hair
• perm and/or set hair
• style hair into dreadlocks, braids or hair extensions
• style hair for events, such as weddings and balls
• may enter competitions

Barbers:

• shave and trim beards and moustaches

Skills & knowledge

Hairdresser/barbers need to have:

• skill in different hairdressing methods, including cutting, styling, perming and colouring techniques
• knowledge of past and current hairstyles and trends
• an understanding of hair and skin types, and how they react with different types of chemicals such as colouring products
• knowledge of health and hygiene regulations
• creative and artistic skills
• communication skills for building up a rapport with clients and inspiring confidence
• good time management skills
• basic maths skills

Hairdressers/barbers who run their own business need to have bookkeeping and management skills.

Entry requirements

To become a hairdresser you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Hairdressing (Practice).

To become a barber you need to complete an apprenticeship and gain a National Certificate in Barbering. Barbers may go on to complete the National Certificate in Hairdressing (Barbering Practice).

Secondary education

A minimum of three years of secondary education is needed to start a hairdressing apprenticeship. Useful subjects include art and design. The National Certificate in Salon Support may be started at secondary school.

Training on the job

Hairdressers/barbers may attend workshops to learn about new techniques and products, and keep up to date with new styles. They may also train for hair competitions.

National Certificates in Salon Support and Salon Management are also available.

Useful experience

Experience in hairdressing or work as a hairdresser's/barber's assistant is useful, as is any work involving contact with people.

Related courses

Hairdressing

For more information, please refer to Career Services.