Hairdresser career guide
Hairdressers cut, style, colour and care for clients’ hair in salons, freelance settings or specialist environments.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does a Hairdresser do?
Hairdressers cut, style, colour and care for clients’ hair in salons, freelance settings or specialist environments.
- Hair salon
- Spa
- Client homes
- Film or television studio
- Hair salons
- Hotels and spas
- Film and television productions
- Self-employment
How to become a Hairdresser
Most hairdressers qualify through an apprenticeship or a practical college course followed by supervised salon experience.
A Level 2 or Level 3 qualification in Hairdressing is commonly required.
- Apprenticeship
- College
Skills and progression for Hairdresser
- Customer service
- Creativity
- Attention to detail
- Manual dexterity
- Communication
- Junior Hairdresser
- Hairdresser
- Senior Stylist
- Salon Manager
- Salon Owner
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering