What does a hairdresser do?

What is a Hairdresser?

A hairdresser is someone who specializes in cutting, colouring and styling hair in order to enhance or maintain a person's appearance. Hairdressers are also referred to as hairstylists.

Hairdressing is a reputable and well-established career that is attractive to many because of its high demand and flexibility of operations. A hairdresser can work as an employee of a salon or as an independent contractor. Hairdressers can be either male or female, and are not gender stereotyped, although barbers are still considered to be mostly male. Most hairdressers have a broad range of skills, but some specialize in processes and techniques such as:

• Hair Colouring and Dyes
• Artificial Hair Extensions and Weaves
• Chemical Relaxing and Straightening
• Perms
• Hair Plugs
• Wig Styling
• Braiding

What does a Hairdresser do?

A hairdresser will typically address all things related to the appearance, styling, and grooming of hair on the head. A hairdresser will listen to the client first, and make sure they have a clear understanding and expectation of the desired results. Hairdressers will often refer to photographs and pictures in beauty and style magazines to visualize the look desired by the client. They must continue with their training and education in order to be able to offer clients the latest style or cut.

Many hairdressers take part in hair competitions in order to keep up to date with the latest styles and cuts. These competitions showcase colouring, styling and cutting techniques. Salons encourage hairdressers to partake in competitions, as an award-winning hairdresser will be great publicity for a salon, and the hairdresser will often end up gaining a large client base.

The largest task often performed by hairdressers is the actual cutting of hair. Clients seeking a new look or just requiring a trim will seek out the services of a hairdresser on a regular basis. Hairdressing is also referred to as hair styling and is the process of styling the hair in a desired way to enhance the appearance of the individual. There are many styles that a hairdresser must know in their profession including:

• Curly styles, and knowing the most flattering way to cut curly hair
• Straight styles, and knowing how to cut poker straight hair
• Short styles
• Long styles
• Complicated up-do styles for weddings and formal events

Chemical treatments to hair can change the way hair looks and feels. Hairdressers administer a chemical relaxant to curly hair making it smooth and straight. Chemical perms cause a semi-permanent style such as curls or waves in otherwise straight hair. Colouring and highlighting hair often require patience and knowledge of chemicals to create the perfect colour. Colouring for multiple shades can be quite complicated and tedious for the hairdresser.

A hairdresser also serves as an expert in the area of hair care and often will sell products that they are knowledgeable about and would like to recommend to clients. Some hairdressers go on to develop their own line of professional hair care products. Hairdressers may serve as consultants or editors for beauty and style guides.

A less common area of hairdressing exists in the realm of hair restoration services and products. A hairdresser can be licensed to handle hair plugs and skilled in the art of styling toupees and artificial hair. Wig styling can require special training as well.

What is the workplace of a Hairdresser like?

Typical salons and hair cutting establishments are where most hairdressers are found. These establishments are located in many areas from shopping malls to upscale spas. A hairdresser may work as an employee of the salon or rent the chair space as an independent contractor. Hairdressers may also operate out of their home, vehicle, or even travel to and perform services in the home of the client. A traveling hairdresser may visit hospitals and assisted living facilities generating a steady base of clients.

The entertainment industry is the second largest market for hairdressing. Movies and theatrical performances employ hairdressers on staff to style and transform actors into characters. Other entertainers such as music artists and dancers will also employ hairdressers behind the scenes. Some hairdressers are employed by just one individual and travel with them exclusively to meet their hair related needs.

The fashion industry also employs hairdressers to style model's hair for photography shoots and fashion shows. Photography shoots can take the hairdresser to various onset locations including exotic countries and challenging climates. Hairdressers in the fashion industry are oftentimes faced with time crunches and stressful situations.