Hairdressing and Beauty

Related Career Sectors
Hairdressing
Looking good and feeling good are now big business, and not just for women. About 90% workers in this sector are women. However, this is likely to change as more men become customers.

To work in this sector you must be interested in learning the practical skills for the job and you must be a ‘people person’. You must enjoy working with all types of people. You must be a good listener, diplomatic and friendly.

You will also need to be clean, well-groomed and interested in the latest styles and products. Some creative flair is necessary for most of the jobs. Many workers in the beauty industry are also interested in complementary health therapies like aromatherapy.

Some of the materials you use, such as hot wax, or the chemicals which colour hair, could hurt you and your customers. You must also be careful and aware of health and safety issues.

Remember that if you ever want to open up your own salon you will need business skills too. A quarter of new businesses set up by young Scots are in the beauty industry!