The hairdressing industry in the United Kingdom offers a wealth of opportunities for both new and experienced professionals. As a key part of the beauty and personal care industry, hairdressers play a critical role in helping people look and feel their best. From salons in bustling cities to private appointments, the demand for skilled hairdressers is strong across the UK.
Whether you are just starting your career or looking for a change, hairdressing offers a flexible, creative, and rewarding career. This article provides a detailed guide to understanding hairdresser jobs in the UK, including the qualifications you’ll need, the salary expectations, potential career paths, and tips on how to succeed in the industry.
Why Choose Hairdressing as a Career?
Hairdressing is a profession that combines creativity, technical skill, and customer service. It’s a rewarding job for those who enjoy interacting with people and have a passion for fashion, beauty, and hairstyling. Here are a few reasons why you might want to consider becoming a hairdresser:
- Creativity: As a hairdresser, you have the opportunity to be creative with your designs and haircuts. Each day presents a new challenge, whether it’s creating a stunning new hairstyle for a client or experimenting with different techniques.
- Flexibility: Hairdressers often have the flexibility to work full-time, part-time, or on a freelance basis. Many hairdressers can choose their hours, allowing them to balance work with their personal life.
- Constant Demand: Everyone needs a haircut, so the demand for skilled hairdressers remains consistent. The UK’s thriving beauty industry ensures that there are always job opportunities for trained hair professionals.
- Career Growth: There are various paths for career advancement in the hairdressing industry, from becoming a senior stylist to opening your own salon. Many hairdressers go on to become salon owners or teach future generations of professionals.
Types of Hairdressing Jobs in the UK
The UK offers a variety of hairdressing roles, each requiring different skills and offering different work environments. Here are some of the most common types of hairdressing jobs in the country:
1. Salon Hairdresser
Salon hairdressers work in a traditional salon environment where they provide a range of hair services to clients. These services typically include cutting, coloring, and styling hair, as well as offering advice on hair care products.
- Job Description: A salon hairdresser’s job involves meeting with clients to discuss their needs, offering styling suggestions, cutting and coloring hair, and using different techniques and tools to achieve the desired look. Some salons may also offer additional services like hair extensions, perms, or treatments.
- Work Environment: Salon hairdressers often work in busy environments, where they interact with a variety of clients. Many salons also offer additional services such as nail care or massage, so hairdressers may work alongside other beauty professionals.
- Salary: The average salary for a salon hairdresser in the UK is typically between £18,000 and £26,000 per year. However, experienced stylists working in high-end salons or offering specialized services can earn higher salaries.
2. Freelance Hairdresser
Freelance hairdressers are self-employed professionals who work independently, often on a flexible basis. They may visit clients in their homes, work at special events like weddings, or rent a chair at a salon.
- Job Description: Freelance hairdressers have the flexibility to set their own schedule and take on clients based on their availability. They provide the same services as a salon hairdresser, but with the added benefit of being able to work from different locations. Freelancers may specialize in specific services, such as bridal hair or cutting-edge styles.
- Work Environment: Freelance hairdressers are independent workers who often travel to meet clients. They may set up their own home-based salon or rent space in existing salons. Some also work on-site at events, such as weddings, fashion shows, or photo shoots.
- Salary: As freelancers, hairdressers have more control over their earnings, but they are also responsible for managing their own taxes, marketing, and business operations. Earnings can vary greatly depending on the number of clients and the type of services offered, but many freelancers earn between £25,000 and £45,000 annually.
3. Barber
Barbers specialize in cutting and grooming men’s hair. This includes trimming beards, styling haircuts, and offering services like hot towel shaves and beard grooming. The barbering industry in the UK has grown significantly in recent years, with a rise in popularity of men’s grooming services.
- Job Description: A barber’s role is similar to that of a hairdresser, but with a focus on male clients. Barbers cut, trim, and style hair, and may also offer beard and mustache grooming services. They work with clippers, razors, and scissors to create the desired look.
- Work Environment: Barbers work in traditional barbershops, which may have a classic or modern style. The environment is often more laid-back compared to salons, and barbers usually work with male clients exclusively.
- Salary: A barber’s salary in the UK typically ranges from £18,000 to £28,000 annually, with the potential to earn more based on experience, location, and client base.
4. Mobile Hairdresser
Mobile hairdressers are similar to freelance hairdressers but specifically cater to clients in their homes. This job offers the flexibility of traveling to clients’ locations and providing hair services in a private setting.
- Job Description: A mobile hairdresser offers the same range of services as a salon-based stylist but in the client’s home. They may also specialize in bridal hair, elderly clients, or people with special needs who are unable to visit a salon.
- Work Environment: Mobile hairdressers are self-employed, so they work from their own home or travel to clients. They may need to carry a range of hairdressing tools and products with them.
- Salary: Earnings vary based on location and the number of clients, but a mobile hairdresser can typically earn between £20,000 and £35,000 annually, depending on their client base.
5. Salon Manager/Owner
As a salon manager or owner, hairdressers take on a leadership role in a salon environment. This involves overseeing other stylists, managing client relationships, and handling the business operations of the salon.
- Job Description: Salon managers are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the salon. This includes overseeing staff, ensuring that the salon runs efficiently, managing schedules, and maintaining customer satisfaction. In the case of salon owners, they also handle the business side of things, including marketing, financial management, and client acquisition.
- Work Environment: This is a managerial role, so it involves a lot of administrative work and client interaction. Salon owners often work in a fast-paced environment and may employ multiple hairdressers, receptionists, and assistants.
- Salary: The salary for a salon manager or owner varies greatly depending on the location, size of the business, and client base. On average, salon managers in the UK earn between £22,000 and £40,000 annually, while salon owners can earn more based on the success of their business.
Qualifications and Skills Needed for Hairdresser Jobs
To work as a hairdresser in the UK, certain qualifications and skills are necessary. Here’s an overview:
1. Qualifications
- NVQ Level 2 and 3 in Hairdressing: These are the primary qualifications for hairdressers in the UK. NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) Level 2 is for beginners, and Level 3 is for advanced stylists who want to specialize.
- Apprenticeships: Many hairdressers start their careers through apprenticeships, where they receive on-the-job training while working toward an NVQ qualification.
- Specialist Courses: If you want to specialize in areas like coloring, bridal hair, or barbering, additional courses are available to help you gain the skills needed.
2. Skills
- Customer Service: Hairdressers must be able to communicate effectively with clients to understand their needs and provide great service.
- Creativity: Being able to design and execute hairstyles that fit each client’s preferences requires a strong sense of creativity.
- Technical Ability: Mastery of hair cutting, styling, and coloring techniques is essential.
- Attention to Detail: Precision is important in hairdressing, especially when cutting and coloring hair.
Salary and Career Outlook for Hairdressers in the UK
Hairdressers in the UK earn a variety of salaries depending on their role, experience, and location. For entry-level positions, salaries typically start around £18,000 to £22,000 annually, with experienced hairdressers earning £25,000 to £30,000 per year. Specialized roles, such as salon managers or high-end stylists, can see salaries ranging from £35,000 to £50,000 per year.
The demand for hairdressers remains strong, especially in major cities, where people are constantly seeking new styles and trends. With the beauty industry growing, career advancement opportunities are plentiful, whether you want to become a salon manager, open your own salon, or specialize in a niche like bridal hair or coloring.
How to Get Started as a Hairdresser in the UK
- Get Qualified: The first step to becoming a hairdresser is to complete the necessary training, such as an NVQ Level 2 or 3 in Hairdressing.
- Gain Experience: Many hairdressers start by working in salons as assistants, learning the ropes before progressing to a full stylist role.
- Build a Portfolio: Whether you’re freelance or working in a salon, it’s important to build a portfolio of your work to showcase your skills to potential clients or employers.
- Keep Learning: Hairdressing trends are always changing, so it’s important to stay up to date with new styles, tools, and techniques.
Conclusion
Hairdressing is a creative and rewarding career with numerous job opportunities in the UK. Whether you’re interested in working in a salon, becoming a freelance hairdresser, or opening your own business, there are many paths to success in this industry. With the right qualifications and a passion for helping people look their best, you can build a fulfilling career that offers both personal satisfaction and professional growth.
