How to Become a Hairdresser Quickly in 2024: The Ultimate Guide

Becoming a hairdresser can be an exciting and rewarding career path, and it’s possible to fast-track the process with the right approach. In this article, we’ll break down the steps you can take to become a hairdresser quickly and efficiently in 2024. Whether you're just starting out or looking to change careers, this guide will help you on your journey to working as a licensed hair professional in no time.

What You Do Daily as a Hairdresser

Before diving into the training process, it’s essential to understand the daily responsibilities of a hairdresser. Beyond just cutting and styling hair, you are responsible for delivering a positive customer experience and staying on top of the latest trends. Here’s what a typical day as a hairdresser might look like:

• Consulting with clients: Discussing their style preferences for cuts, colors, and treatments.
• Using professional tools: Mastering equipment like scissors, clippers, and styling tools with precision.
• Chemical treatments: Applying hair dyes and other chemicals while ensuring safety and minimizing damage.
• Maintaining a clean workspace: Keeping your station tidy and sanitized between clients.
• Customer comfort: Ensuring that clients feel relaxed and cared for during their visit.
• Staying updated on trends: Continuously learning about new techniques, styles, and products in the industry.

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What Skills Do You Need?

To succeed as a hairdresser, technical ability is crucial, but so are interpersonal skills and time management. Here are some of the most important skills you'll need:

• Communication: You must listen to clients carefully and offer professional advice.
• Time Management: Speed without compromising quality is key. Efficiently managing time allows you to increase your client load and revenue.
• Attention to Detail: Precision in cutting, coloring, and styling is essential to achieve great results.
• Creativity: Hairstyling is an art. Each client is an opportunity to showcase your creativity.
• Patience: Some treatments take time, and building your client base won’t happen overnight. Patience pays off in this field.

If you naturally possess these skills, you’ll find yourself well-equipped to start your journey. If not, don’t worry—many of these can be developed during your training.

Step 1: Enroll in a Professional Hairdressing Program

The first and most crucial step to becoming a hairdresser is to enroll in a recognized training program. These courses are designed to provide both practical and theoretical knowledge in cutting, coloring, styling, and other hairdressing techniques.

United States
In the U.S., you’ll need to complete a cosmetology program accredited by your state's cosmetology board. These programs typically last between 9 to 12 months, depending on the course intensity and schedule.

• Curriculum: Haircutting, coloring, styling, safety and sanitation, customer service, and salon management.
• Cost: Programs can range from $5,000 to $20,000 depending on the school and location.
• Accelerated options: Some schools offer fast-track courses, allowing you to finish in 9 months.

United Kingdom
In the U.K., hairdressing programs are divided into several levels:

• NVQ Level 2 Hairdressing: The most basic certification, focusing on core skills such as cutting, shampooing, and scalp treatments. You can often complete this in 12 months.
• NVQ Level 3 Hairdressing: This advanced qualification takes an additional year and allows you to offer more specialized services. Most salons prefer stylists with Level 3 qualifications.
• NVQ Level 4 Hairdressing: For those aiming to manage or own a salon, this course provides management and leadership training. It typically requires one more year of study.

Other Countries
Different countries have different licensing and certification requirements. Always check the specific legal requirements where you live.

Step 2: Get Licensed

Once you've completed your training, the next step is to get licensed. In the U.S., every state requires hairdressers to pass a state licensing exam, which includes written, oral, and practical components. Be prepared to demonstrate your skills under real-world conditions.

• State-specific requirements: Some states may have additional requirements, such as separate licenses for hair braiding or coloring.
• Maintaining your license: Continuing education is required in most places to keep your license up to date.

In the U.K., after completing an NVQ, you won’t need a specific license, but certification is crucial for securing a job at most salons.

Step 3: Build Experience Through Apprenticeships

Even though you may be qualified on paper, real-world experience is essential to becoming proficient. Many aspiring hairdressers opt to take apprenticeships or work as assistants at salons.

• Shadowing experienced stylists: You’ll learn more advanced techniques and tricks of the trade that aren't covered in school.
• Building speed and confidence: Working with real clients will help you build the necessary speed and confidence to excel.
• Networking opportunities: Apprenticeships offer excellent opportunities for building relationships in the industry.

How to Become a Hairdresser Fast

For those looking to fast-track their way to becoming a hairdresser, here are some key tips:

• Choose Accelerated Programs: Look for cosmetology schools that offer intensive courses that can be completed in less time.
• Stay Focused: Create a distraction-free study and practice environment to help you learn faster. Limit interruptions and dedicate time daily to practice.
• Practice Deliberately: Start small and practice core skills like cutting, brushing, and styling deliberately. Focus on one technique at a time and slowly increase the difficulty level.
• Seek Feedback: Find a mentor or coach who can provide feedback on your performance. Outside assessments can help you refine your skills faster.
• Stay Motivated: Remind yourself why you’re doing this. Whether it’s for personal fulfillment, financial stability, or to pursue a passion, staying motivated will help you maintain the discipline to finish quickly.
• Use Online Resources: There are plenty of free and paid tutorials available online that can help you practice specific techniques in your free time.

Step 4: Stay Updated on Hair Trends and Techniques

The world of hairdressing is always evolving. To stay competitive and successful, keep learning new techniques, experimenting with products, and staying informed about industry trends. Attend hairdressing workshops, trade shows, and seminars to keep yourself up to date.

• Subscribe to industry publications: Magazines and blogs dedicated to hairstyling can help you stay informed about new trends.
• Follow influencers and experts: Social media platforms are a great way to learn about the latest products and techniques from the best in the business.

Conclusion

Becoming a hairdresser quickly is possible if you stay focused and motivated. With the right training, licensing, and experience, you can fast-track your way into a fulfilling career. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to joining the ranks of professional hairdressers in no time!

Remember, the key is to stay disciplined and committed to learning. You’re not just cutting hair—you’re building a career, making connections, and expressing creativity. Want to impress others and break the ice faster during your training? Get yourself a funny hairdresser t-shirt, travel mug, or notebook to stand out and show your passion for the craft. It’s a great way to connect with others and have a little fun while you learn!