Hairdressing is a fast-paced industry. Hairdressers are always in demand, as there is always hair that needs to be cut! And no two days on the hairdresser job will ever be the same.
From cutting and colouring to managing and operating a salon, hairdressers have to be talented multi-taskers. That’s why when it comes to hairdressing, learning the theory behind the job is just as important as practice.
Hairdressing is largely considered to be about practical skill. However, it’s no use holding a pair of scissors in your hands if you don’t know the correct techniques to use in order to give the client their desired haircut and style.
What is involved in the theory when learning to be a hairdresser?
When it comes to learning hairdressing and later becoming a successful hairdresser, theory is everything. This is because the theoretical components of this profession provide the foundation for aspiring hairdressers to build upon.
Theory in the hairdressing industry encompasses everything from preparing a client for salon services and co-ordinating salon services, to cutting hair and diagnosing possible hair and scalp conditions.
However, working with clients isn’t the only thing that future hairdressers need to learn. It’s also important to be skilled in maintaining a clean and efficient workplace, and proper ways to communicate while in the workplace.
Hairdressers in training should also be able to navigate appointments and client schedules. On top of this, being able to sell products and services is also a must.
By covering such vast topics, hairdressing theory ensures that all hairdressers enter the workplace as well-rounded and highly skilled individuals. Because at the end of the day, skilled and efficient people make the best workers.
Why is the theory so important?
The importance of theory in the hairdressing industry shouldn’t be understated. In fact, theory forms the basis of every skill. In some industries, it may be ok to learn on the job. However, when you are dealing with someone else’s hair, every decision should be made correctly.
Having the skills and the confidence to style, cut and colour someone’s hair comes from having sound knowledge of techniques and processes. Once someone has this skill, they will be more confident and therefore more likely to give each and every client the haircut of their dreams.
What qualifications do you need to be a hairdresser?
In many Australian states, a hairdresser must be qualified and registered in order to work in or run a practice. With this in mind, there are a number of courses available for those looking to gain a qualification.
Certificate in Hairdressing
Completing this certificate ensures that aspiring hairdressers will be capable of taking initiative and having sound judgement. Those who take the course will also gain personal responsibility and be able to work semi-independently when performing hairdressing tasks.
Cert II in Hairdressing
This certificate teaches students the skills they will need to practice as a hairdresser. If students want to work at a salon, this qualification, along with the Certificate in Hairdressing may be all that’s required- depending on the state you will be working in.
Cert III in Hairdressing
This certificate enables participants to gain the technical and supervisory skills that are required in order to be a professional hairdresser. Completing this certificate positions individuals as potential employees with a solid skillset.
Cert IV / Advanced Certificate in Hairdressing
This certificate is designed for those aspiring to be a salon manager or owner. It is designed to build on the knowledge and skills of previous certificates. Resulting in individuals who are self-motivated and able to apply a range of techniques for running their salon.
State requirements
When it comes to the requirements for being a qualified hairdresser, each state is different. For example, New South Wales, South Australia, and Tasmania require that salons be operated by a registered hairdresser.
In Victoria, anyone can operate a salon. However, if they want to hire an apprentice, then they must be qualified. While in the Northern Territory, the ACT and Queensland, there are no operating restrictions other than the rule that apprentices or trainees must be supervised.
Choosing a career as a hairdresser
Hairdressing is one of the most exciting industries in the world. No day two days or two haircuts will be the same. As clients continue to evolve their looks, hairdressers will also be able to evolve their portfolio and skillset.
However, despite the inevitability of change, the one thing that will stay the same is the need for hairdressers to be sound when it comes to the theory behind their skill. If not, clients will leave with lopsided haircuts or even scalp irritations.
This fast-growing industry demands the best from its employees. Hairdressers only get one chance with their clients. By being highly skilled and well trained, fabulous haircuts will be the rule, rather than the exception.
