4 answers
Tatiyana
Student
Memphis, Tennessee
5
Questions
Asked
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What is something I will need to know about being a hairstylist?
I'm Tatiyana and I am a 10th grader. I already know the basics of hair and how to braid hair. I don't know how to braid to the scalp just yet. So could some of you all give me a few tips on how to do that. Also some things I would need to know. #cosmetology #anyone #general #experience
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4 answers
Natasha Bastien
Consulting
64
Answers
Rockville, Maryland
Updated
Natasha’s Answer
Consider whether there are opportunities for apprenticeship/internships in your area.
One website compiled a list of the best hair salons in Memphis, TN. With permission from your parents and guidance from a teacher or career counselor, research each one of these studios. Make a short list of the locations that might be productive to contact (call at the start or end of normal business hours) - find out whether the owners of the salons have apprenticeships or would consider launching such programs in partnership with your school or local student groups.
18 Best Hair Salons in Memphis
expertise.com/tn/memphis/hair-salons
It is also noted here that one the owners obtained her "cosmetology license from the Hair Design School". Find whether that school has resources to learn from. Definitely talk with some hairstylists about which online resources and relevant links that they would recommend to students and learners.
One website compiled a list of the best hair salons in Memphis, TN. With permission from your parents and guidance from a teacher or career counselor, research each one of these studios. Make a short list of the locations that might be productive to contact (call at the start or end of normal business hours) - find out whether the owners of the salons have apprenticeships or would consider launching such programs in partnership with your school or local student groups.
18 Best Hair Salons in Memphis
expertise.com/tn/memphis/hair-salons
It is also noted here that one the owners obtained her "cosmetology license from the Hair Design School". Find whether that school has resources to learn from. Definitely talk with some hairstylists about which online resources and relevant links that they would recommend to students and learners.
Estelle Archer
Gynecologist
1322
Answers
United States
Updated
Estelle’s Answer
I agree with the recommendation to get a part time job in a salon. Additionally, many hair stylists are small business owners. You will need to learn how to keep meticulous accounts and will need to be very organized with your calendar.
Keith Adkins
Vice President Marketing
10
Answers
Lansing, Michigan
Updated
Keith’s Answer
I think the response you received regarding an apprenticeship is an excellent suggestion. I also want to make sure that you understand that being a hairstylist is not only about doing hair. You will also be a business person, if you work for someone else or own your own salon you will have to run a business. If you work for someone else you normally pay a chair fee to have access to the salon, you are not normally considered an employee of the salon due to legal requirements of being an employee. If you have this arrangement you will need to schedule (adjust as necessary) and track your income for IRS reporting purposes. This is a great profession but it doesn't stop with just making someone look good.
Marini Jones, M.B.A.
Medicare Pharmacy Supervisor
24
Answers
Updated
Marini’s Answer
To learn how to braid hair to the scalp - try YouTube. There are a lot of videos demonstrating how to braid hair in different styles. A mannequin head is also helpful to practice.
To reiterate the suggestion above - find someone who will mentor you and teach you basic techniques. Ask a lot of questions and practice. Learn everything you can about the business/industry.
Search Cosmetology schools. Choose the best school that will help you achieve your desired goals and enroll for official training and preparation to become licensed.
When you're ready to work in a salon, you will want to research locations that are best for you. Please note that there are a few different ways salons are run:
- Some owners charge you booth rent. You're basically paying for a chair to use in their salon. You are responsible to purchase the products you choose to use.
- Some salon owners will charge you a percentage of what you charge your customers. For example, if a service costs $75 - the owner will receive $22.50 (30%). The owner receives money for each customer's service. The salon owner usually provides the products for this structure.
- Some salons hire stylists. So, you will earn a per hour wage.
This is something you will want to think about as you work your way through cosmetology school. This can also be something you discuss with a mentor.
Just remember -- practice, practice, practice. Good luck!
To reiterate the suggestion above - find someone who will mentor you and teach you basic techniques. Ask a lot of questions and practice. Learn everything you can about the business/industry.
Search Cosmetology schools. Choose the best school that will help you achieve your desired goals and enroll for official training and preparation to become licensed.
When you're ready to work in a salon, you will want to research locations that are best for you. Please note that there are a few different ways salons are run:
- Some owners charge you booth rent. You're basically paying for a chair to use in their salon. You are responsible to purchase the products you choose to use.
- Some salon owners will charge you a percentage of what you charge your customers. For example, if a service costs $75 - the owner will receive $22.50 (30%). The owner receives money for each customer's service. The salon owner usually provides the products for this structure.
- Some salons hire stylists. So, you will earn a per hour wage.
This is something you will want to think about as you work your way through cosmetology school. This can also be something you discuss with a mentor.
Just remember -- practice, practice, practice. Good luck!