Cosmetology Career Paths > Hairstylist Career Information

A career as a hairstylist offers the opportunity to combine creativity, technical skills, and a passion for helping people look and feel their best. Hairstylists work with clients to create everything from everyday haircuts and color treatments to styles for special occasions. Many begin their careers offering a range of services before choosing to specialize in areas such as hair coloring, extensions, or bridal styling.

Duties & Responsibilities

Hairstylists provide a variety of hair care and styling services based on their clients’ needs, preferences, and hair types. Along with creating personalized looks, they help clients maintain healthy hair and recommend products and treatments.

Common hairstylist responsibilities include:

• Cutting, trimming, and shaping hair
• Applying hair color, highlights, and other color treatments
• Performing chemical texture services
• Shampooing, conditioning, and treating hair
• Creating hairstyles for everyday wear and special occasions
• Consulting with clients about their hair goals
• Maintaining clean tools, equipment, and workstations
• Recommending hair care products and styling techniques

Depending on their training and state licensing requirements, hairstylists with a cosmetology license may also offer additional beauty services, including basic skincare, waxing, and nail care.

Hairstylist Salary & Earning Potential

A hairstyling career offers opportunities to increase your earnings as you develop your skills, gain experience, and build a loyal client base. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists was $17.21 in May 2025.

Earnings vary depending on experience, location, services offered, and employment arrangements. Some hairstylists earn hourly wages or commissions, while others work independently and set their own service prices. Specializing in services such as hair coloring, extensions, or bridal styling may also create opportunities to grow your income. Tips can contribute to earnings, and are included in BLS wage estimates.

Hairstylist Education & Licensing Requirements

Becoming a hairstylist typically involves completing a state-approved cosmetology or hairdressing program and obtaining the appropriate professional license. Cosmetology students receive training in haircutting, coloring, chemical treatments, hairstyling, sanitation, and other essential beauty services.

Required training hours and licensing examinations vary by state. Students should review their state’s requirements before enrolling in a program.

Essential Hairstylist Skills

Successful hairstylists combine creativity and technical knowledge with strong communication and customer service skills. Understanding different hair types, staying current with industry trends, and listening to client preferences can help hairstylists build lasting relationships.

Important skills include:

• Multi-Tasking
• Personable
• Great Guest Service
• Outgoing
• Great Listener
• Excitement for the Industry

Where Do Hairstylists Work?

Hairstylists can work in a variety of settings depending on their interests, experience, and career goals. Many begin their careers in full-service salons, while others pursue opportunities in spas, resorts, or specialized styling businesses.

Common work environments include:

• Hair salons and beauty studios
• Spas and resorts
• Private salon suites
• Bridal and special event styling
• Cruise ships and hospitality settings
• Independent or mobile styling businesses, where permitted

Experienced hairstylists may also pursue careers in salon management, beauty education, or product sales.

Hairstylist Work Schedule

Hairstylists can pursue full-time or part-time opportunities, with schedules that may include daytime, evening, and weekend appointments. Many stylists work evenings and weekends to accommodate their clients and establish a consistent client base.

Those who operate independent businesses or rent salon suites may have greater control over their schedules. However, managing appointments, client relationships, and daily business responsibilities also requires time and organization.

How To Get Started as a Hair Stylist

A hairstyling career begins with the right education and hands-on training. Empire Beauty School’s cosmetology program helps students develop skills in haircutting, coloring, hairstyling, and other beauty services while preparing them to pursue professional licensure.

Ready to turn your passion for hairstyling into a career? Request information about Empire Beauty School’s cosmetology program and take the first step toward your future in the beauty industry.