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Hair Stylist

Overview, Education, Careers Types, Skills, Career Path, Resources

Hair stylists create unique looks for clients. They shampoo, cut, color, and style hair, while staying updated on trends.

Average Salary

₹2,50,000

Growth

medium

Satisfaction

high

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Educational Requirements

Education Requirements for Becoming a Hair Stylist

To become a successful hair stylist in India, a combination of formal education, specialized training, and practical experience is typically required. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Formal Education:
    • A high school diploma (10+2) is generally the minimum educational requirement.
  • Certification Courses:
    • Many aspiring hair stylists opt for certification courses from reputable beauty schools or academies. These courses provide comprehensive training in various aspects of hair styling.
  • Key Skills Covered in Courses:
    • Hair cutting techniques
    • Hair coloring and highlighting
    • Chemical treatments (perms, relaxers, etc.)
    • Hair styling and finishing
    • Basic salon management and hygiene
  • Advanced Training:
    • Some stylists choose to pursue advanced diplomas or degrees in cosmetology for more in-depth knowledge and skills.
  • On-the-Job Training:
    • Apprenticeships or assistant positions in salons are invaluable for gaining practical experience and learning from seasoned professionals.
  • Continuous Learning:
    • The field of hair styling is constantly evolving, so continuous learning through workshops, seminars, and online resources is essential to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques.

Having a strong foundation in these areas will significantly enhance your prospects in the competitive world of hair styling.

Study Path
Top Colleges

While there aren't specific 'hair styling colleges' in the traditional sense in India, numerous beauty schools and academies offer comprehensive hair styling courses. Here are some of the top options:

  • VLCC Institute:
    • VLCC is a well-known brand with multiple institutes across India, offering a range of cosmetology and hair styling courses.
  • Lakmé Academy:
    • Lakmé Academy is another popular choice, providing professional training in hair styling and beauty.
  • Jawed Habib Hair and Beauty Academy:
    • Jawed Habib's academy is renowned for its focus on practical training and industry-relevant skills.
  • Shahnaz Husain Beauty Academy:
    • Shahnaz Husain's academy offers courses that blend traditional Ayurvedic principles with modern techniques.
  • Pearl Academy:
    • Pearl Academy offers diploma programs in fashion and media make-up, which include hair styling components.
  • Local Beauty Schools:
    • Many cities and towns have local beauty schools that offer certified hair styling courses.

When choosing an institute, consider factors like the course curriculum, faculty expertise, infrastructure, and placement assistance to make an informed decision.

Fees

The fees for hair styling courses in India can vary widely depending on the type of institute, course duration, and the level of training offered. Here's a general overview:

  • Government Institutes:
    • Government-run Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) or polytechnics may offer cosmetology or hair styling courses at subsidized fees, typically ranging from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000 per year.
  • Private Institutes:
    • Private beauty schools and academies usually charge higher fees, ranging from ₹30,000 to ₹1,50,000 for a comprehensive hair styling course.
  • Diploma vs. Certification:
    • Diploma courses, which are more extensive, tend to be more expensive than short-term certification courses.
  • Advanced Courses:
    • Specialized or advanced courses focusing on specific techniques (e.g., advanced hair coloring) can cost between ₹20,000 to ₹50,000.
  • Additional Costs:
    • Keep in mind that you may also need to factor in additional costs for study materials, equipment, and tools.
  • Return on Investment:
    • While the initial investment may seem significant, a good hair styling course can lead to a rewarding career with a high earning potential.
Related Exams

While there aren't specific national-level entrance exams to become a hair stylist in India, the path typically involves enrolling in cosmetology or hair styling courses offered by various institutes. Here's a detailed look:

  • Entrance Exams for Cosmetology Courses:
    • Some reputed cosmetology schools or institutes might conduct their own entrance exams or interviews to assess candidates' aptitude and interest.
  • Coursework and Curriculum:
    • These courses cover a range of topics, including hair cutting, coloring, styling, chemical treatments, and salon management.
  • Certification:
    • Upon completion of the course, you'll receive a certification that validates your skills and knowledge.
  • Skills-Based Assessment:
    • Instead of traditional exams, many institutes focus on practical assessments where you demonstrate your hair styling skills.
  • Importance of Portfolio:
    • Building a strong portfolio of your work is crucial for showcasing your abilities to potential employers or clients.
  • Continuous Learning:
    • Staying updated with the latest trends and techniques through workshops and seminars is essential for career growth.
Exam NameExam Date
Related Courses
Pros And Cons

Pros

  • Creative expression and artistic freedom
  • Opportunity to make people feel good
  • Flexible work hours and self-employment options
  • Potential for high income with experience
  • Constantly evolving industry with new trends
  • Building lasting relationships with clients
  • Opportunity to own your own salon
  • Travel opportunities for workshops and events

Cons

  • Long hours on your feet
  • Exposure to chemicals and hair products
  • Dealing with difficult or demanding clients
  • Competition in the industry
  • Income can be variable, especially initially
  • Need to constantly update skills and knowledge