A stylist uses a comb and scissors to trim hair in a bright, modern studio with minimalist decor and soft lighting.

Hairdresser

Cut, style, and colour hair for clients in a salon or as a freelancer.

This UK hairdresser career guide covers what the role involves day to day, typical salary at each stage, the usual entry route, the skills employers expect, and related careers worth comparing.

Quick facts

Starting salary
£18,000 - £22,000
Mid-career salary
£25,000 - £35,000
Senior salary
£40,000 - £60,000+ (chair rental / salon owner)
Work environment
Salon, mobile, or freelance
Time to entry
2 - 3 years
Degree required
Not required (NVQ Level 2/3)
Category
Sales, Retail and Customer Service

What a Hairdresser does

Cut, style, and colour hair for clients in a salon or as a freelancer.

  • Colourist - Specialise in hair colour - balayage, highlights, corrections.
  • Barber - Specialise in cutting and grooming, often men's hair and beards.

How to become a Hairdresser

  1. Look up Hairdresser roles on LinkedIn or Indeed and read 5 real job ads
  2. Talk to someone already working as a Hairdresser - even a 15-minute call helps
  3. Find one beginner course or qualification used by people in this role
  4. Build one small piece of evidence you've explored this (project, shadowing, short course)
  5. Apply to one entry-level role or related opportunity within the next month

Key skills

  • Cutting
  • Colouring
  • Customer care
  • Stamina