Hairstylist
Cut, style, color, and treat hair while providing consultations on hair care and styling techniques.
About Hairstylist
Hairstylists cut, style, color, and treat hair while providing consultations on hair care and styling techniques. They analyze hair and scalp conditions, recommend treatments, and perform chemical services including coloring, perming, and straightening.
Work Environment
Hairstylists work in salons, spas, and barber shops. They stand for extended periods and work closely with clients. The work involves exposure to chemicals from coloring and perming products and requires excellent interpersonal skills.
Physical Demands
- Standing for entire shifts
- Repetitive hand and arm motions
- Exposure to chemical products
- Fine motor skills for cutting and styling
- Close client interaction throughout the day
Designated Provinces & Territories
Red Seal Exam Structure
The Hairstylist Red Seal exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering 6 major work activity areas.
Total Questions
Multiple choice
5–15%
Knowledge & Recall
60–70%
Procedural Application
20–30%
Critical Thinking
Skills for Success
The essential skills required to succeed in this trade, as defined by the Red Seal program.
Reading
Read technical manuals, code books, specifications, and safety documentation related to hairstyling.
Document Use
Interpret blueprints, schematics, drawings, and technical documents used in hairstyling.
Writing
Complete work orders, reports, inspection records, and other documentation for hairstyling.
Oral Communication
Communicate with clients, colleagues, supervisors, and other trades to coordinate hairstyling work.
Numeracy
Perform measurements, calculations, and estimates required for hairstyling tasks.
Thinking
Apply problem-solving and critical thinking skills to diagnose issues and plan hairstyling work.
Working with Others
Collaborate with team members, apprentices, and other trades on hairstyling projects.
Digital Technology
Use digital tools, diagnostic software, and computer-based systems relevant to hairstyling.
Continuous Learning
Stay current with evolving codes, technologies, and best practices in hairstyling.
Career Advancement
Hairstylists can advance to salon manager, platform artist, educator, or salon owner. Some specialize in color correction, editorial work, or film and television hair styling.
Specializations
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