How to become a barber—the complete guide

If you've ever thought about a career as a barber, but you're still trying to figure out how to get there, then this one's for you. Around 7,000 people started a hairdressing or barbering apprenticeship in England in 2021-22, according to NHBF, and there are almost 16,000 barbershops in the UK. It’s an industry that continues to grow each year.

Here’s a complete guide to everything you need to know about becoming a barber.

What does a barber do?

Barbers are trained professionals who specialise in grooming and maintaining hair, facial hair, and overall personal appearance for men. Their services typically include a range of haircut and grooming services, and they often work in barber shops or salons. Here are some of the primary tasks and services that barbers perform:

Haircuts—offering a variety of haircut styles to their clients, ranging from traditional shortcuts to modern and trendy styles. They use scissors, clippers and razors to trim and shape hair according to the client's preferences

Beard trimming and shaping—barbers are skilled in trimming, shaping and maintaining facial hair, including beards, moustaches and sideburns. They use razors and clippers to create clean lines and desired styles

Shaving—some barbers offer traditional straight razor shaves. This service often includes hot towel treatments and can provide a close and smooth shave

Hair design and styling—barbers may also offer hair design and styling services, which involve creating intricate patterns or designs in the hair using clippers or razors

Scalp and hair treatments—some barbers provide scalp massages and treatments to promote hair health. These treatments may include the application of hair oils, conditioners, or other hair care products

Hair colouring—barbers can apply hair colour or highlights to achieve desired looks, including covering grey hair or creating bold colour choices

Wig fitting and styling—fitting hair pieces, extensions, and styling wigs to be worn for everyday and special occasions

Facial grooming—in addition to beard trimming, barbers may provide facial grooming services such as eyebrow shaping, nose hair trimming and ear hair removal

Consultations—barbers often consult with clients to understand their preferences, recommend suitable hairstyles and provide advice on hair and grooming maintenance

As a barber you'll also be responsible for customer service and client engagement, keeping your salon clean, diary management and product recommendations. You'll also be expected to be aware of industry trends.

Advantages of a barbering career

Being a barber can be a rewarding career with several advantages. While the profession requires skill, dedication and hard work, it also offers a range of benefits. 

Barbers have the opportunity to express their creativity through hairstyling and grooming. They can create unique and personalised looks for their clients, which can be highly satisfying for those with artistic inclinations.

The demand for barbers remains relatively stable, as people will always need haircuts and grooming services. Even during economic downturns, the need for personal grooming continues. Experienced barbers with a loyal client base can earn a good income, and tips can be a significant part of their earnings. The ability to increase income through commissions and added services is also possible.

Barbers often have flexible work hours, allowing them to balance work with personal life. Many barbers have the option to set their own schedules, especially if they own their barbershops. Some barbers can work independently by renting a chair or owning their own barbershop. This independence can give them control over their business and creative choices.

Building long-term relationships with clients is a significant advantage of being a barber. Barbers often form strong connections with their clients, creating a sense of community and trust. Barbers have the opportunity to engage in conversations with clients daily. This social interaction can be fulfilling and allows them to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

Barbers can advance their careers by expanding their skills, gaining experience, and becoming salon or barbershop managers or owners. They can also specialise in areas such as hair design, colour, or grooming techniques. Compared to some professions, becoming a barber typically requires a shorter and less costly education or training period, making it accessible to those interested in the field.

Many barbers find great satisfaction in helping clients look and feel their best. Their positive impact on their clients' self-esteem and confidence can be deeply rewarding. Becoming a skilled barber often involves personal growth and self-improvement. Barbers develop patience, communication skills and the ability to adapt to diverse client needs.

Disadvantages of being a barber

Becoming a barber can be a rewarding career, but like any profession, it comes with its own set of disadvantages and challenges. 

Barbering is physically demanding work. You'll be on your feet for long hours, leading to fatigue and discomfort. You'll also use your hands extensively, which can be taxing on your wrists and fingers.

Many barbers work evenings, weekends and holidays to accommodate their clients' schedules. This can lead to an irregular work schedule and may impact work-life balance. Income in the barbering profession can be inconsistent, especially when starting out. Earnings may depend on the number of clients you have and their tipping habits. Slow periods can also affect your income.

The barbering industry can be highly competitive, especially in densely populated areas. Building a loyal clientele and standing out from competitors can be difficult.

Client No-Shows: Clients may occasionally fail to show up for appointments or cancel at the last minute, resulting in lost income and wasted time. Barbers may encounter difficult or demanding clients, which can be stressful. Managing client expectations and maintaining professionalism is crucial.

Many barbers work as independent contractors or self-employed individuals, often lacking traditional employee benefits like health insurance, retirement plans and paid time off. Depending on location, barbering businesses may experience seasonal fluctuations in demand. Summers and holidays, for example, can be busier than other times of the year.

Barbers are at risk of accidental injuries, such as cuts or burns, when using sharp tools and hot styling equipment.

How to become a barber

Becoming a barber involves completing specific education and training requirements, obtaining barber insurance and gaining practical experience. You must be at least 16 years old to begin training as a barber in the UK. Here are the steps to take:

1. Start by researching the specific requirements for becoming a licensed barber in your area. Barbering licensing requirements vary, so it's important to understand the regulations.
2. There are no specific educational qualifications required to become a barber in the UK. However, having a good understanding of basic maths and English is beneficial for communication with clients. Look for a reputable barbering course or program offered by a vocational college
3.  or private training provider. Ensure that the course is accredited and recognised by industry bodies.
4. Enrol in a barbering training program that covers the essential skills and knowledge needed to become a barber. These programs typically include both theory and practical training in haircutting, styling, shaving, sanitation and customer service. Many barbers in the UK choose to obtain a Level 2 or Level 3 barbering qualification, such as a Level 2 NVQ Diploma in Barbering or a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Barbering. These qualifications are recognised by employers and clients.
5. During your training, you'll gain practical experience by working on mannequins, fellow students, or real clients under the supervision of experienced instructors. Practical experience is crucial for developing your skills.
6. Complete training hours and pass assessments associated with your course to ensure the time and effort you've invested are worthwhile.

Depending on the region in the UK where you plan to work, you may need to pass a practical licensing exam or assessment conducted by the local council or other relevant. After completing your training, assessments and any required licensing exams, you can apply for a barber licence through your local council. Be prepared to submit the necessary documentation, including proof of training and assessment results.

Once you obtain your barber licence, you can start working as a qualified barber. You can choose to work in an existing barbershop, become self-employed, or even open your own barbershop.

Consider continuing education to stay updated on industry trends, techniques and regulations. Attend workshops and seminars to expand your skills and knowledge. Joining professional barbering associations in the UK can provide networking opportunities and access to resources to help you grow in your career.

Customer service, barbering skills and marketing your services are key to success as a barber. You can even look at opening your shop and employing a team in future - the world's your oyster in this exciting industry!

Specialist barber insurance through Ripe

Now that you know how to become a barber, you may want to get specialist insurance once you qualify to protect your business. 

Specialist barber insurance arranged by Ripe includes up to £10m Public and Products Liability cover and up to £5m Treatment Risk cover as standard. You can also add cover for your equipment up to the value of £250k, so you don’t have to replace it out of your own pocket if it’s damaged or stolen. 

Discover more about how we can help here, or get an instant online quote today.