How to check if a hairdresser is qualified

If you're looking for a new hairdresser, but you want to be sure that they know what they're doing and if they can safely work on your hair, then you'll want to check that your hairdresser is qualified to perform their services.

Here's our guide on how to check if a hairdresser is qualified. Remember, if everything is above board, your hairdresser should have no issue with you asking questions about their services and experience.

Why going to an unqualified hairdresser can be bad news

At best, going to an unqualified hairdresser could leave you with a hairstyle that's not really what you asked for. At worst, they could cause harm or injury to you. Hairdressing is a career path that takes training, experience and knowledge—a hairdresser works with chemicals and tools directly on your skin and hair, so you want to know that they know what they're doing.

Qualified hairdressers undergo formal training that includes learning various cutting, styling and colouring techniques. They're knowledgeable about different hair types, textures and suitable treatments. Unqualified individuals may lack this fundamental training, leading to accidental injuries or hair damage.

Unqualified individuals may use low-quality or inappropriate products, leading to poor results and potential damage to your hair. They may also not recognise and address hair and scalp conditions that a qualified hairdresser would know about, leaving your hair and scalp open to damage or issues.

Professional salons adhere to strict hygiene standards to ensure the well-being of clients. Unqualified individuals may not follow proper sanitation practices, putting clients at risk of infections or other health issues.

You might not have a great experience or get the right results with an unqualified hairdresser, and if they do make a mistake, they might need more experience and expertise to correct it.

To avoid these potential problems, choosing a qualified and reputable hairdresser who has completed formal training and holds recognised certifications is advisable. Check for qualifications, reviews and recommendations before choosing a new hairdresser.

What qualifications does a hairdresser need?

In the UK, hairdressers usually need to undergo formal training and obtain recognised qualifications to practise professionally. There are also additional barbering qualifications and extra training that they may also undertake. The qualifications required for a hairdresser in the UK can vary, but the most common and widely recognised qualifications include:

NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) Level 2 in Hairdressing

This is a foundational qualification for hairdressers and covers basic skills and knowledge in hairdressing. It includes practical training in cutting, styling and colouring hair. It also covers things like health and safety, so someone with this qualification should be able to work safely on your hair.

NVQ Level 3 in Hairdressing

Building upon NVQ Level 2, this qualification is more advanced and includes training in complex cutting and colouring techniques. It also covers salon management and business-related skills. If you're going for a more complicated style or treatment, look for a hairdresser with the equivalent of level 3.

City & Guilds Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing

Like NVQ qualifications, City & Guilds diplomas are widely recognised in the hairdressing industry. Level 2 covers foundational skills, while Level 3 involves advanced techniques and salon management, similar to NVQs.

VTCT Level 2 and Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing

VTCT is another awarding body that provides qualifications for the hairdressing sector. Level 2 focuses on basic skills, and Level 3 involves more advanced techniques and management aspects.

Apprenticeship and Advanced Apprenticeship in Hairdressing

Some people enter the industry through apprenticeships, where they work in a salon while receiving on-the-job training. Apprenticeships often lead to qualifications such as NVQ Level 2 and Level 3. An Advanced Apprenticeship in Hairdressing is an extension of the basic apprenticeship. It leads to more advanced qualifications, providing a broader skill set and preparing individuals for roles with greater responsibility.

Qualified hairdressers may also do ongoing training to stay updated with the latest trends, techniques and industry developments. This could involve attending workshops, courses, or industry events - they'll usually have certificates and a portfolio to show that they've done these, so you can be assured that they know what they're doing.

How to check if your hairdresser is qualified

To ensure that a hairdresser is qualified, it's a case of doing a little bit of research and asking some questions.

Ask the hairdresser about their qualifications and certifications - they might be displayed in the salon. Look for qualifications from recognised awarding bodies, such as City & Guilds or VTCT. If you really want to be sure, you can check with an awarding body or check if your hairdresser is a member of a professional association like the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA) or the National Hairdressers' Federation (NHF).

Visiting the hair salon can also help you to work out whether it's reputable or not. Many hairdressers offer a consultation service where you can check out how knowledgeable they are and how comfortable you feel about their qualifications. You can ask about any other training they've done. It's also worth checking that they have hair and beauty insurance in place, as this can help you identify a reputable hairdresser.

Look for online reviews and testimonials from clients who have visited the salon, or ask people you know for recommendations in your area. Positive reviews can be an indicator of a skilled and qualified hairdresser.

If you feel that a hairdresser you're speaking to isn't qualified, don't be afraid to book elsewhere. It's a personal service, and you need to feel comfortable and that you're in safe hands at the salon.