A person who wants to become a hair colorist should first train as a general hair stylist before deciding to specialize in hair coloring. This is usually accomplished by enrolling in a cosmetology school and completing a hair styling program. An applicant looking for a school in the United States (US) should look for one that has been accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS), an independent accrediting commission well respected by the beauty industry. Such NACCAS-accredited schools are more likely to provide high-quality programs that prepare students to become licensed hairstylists upon graduation.
Anyone interested in becoming a hair colorist should have a basic understanding of hair styling, which can be obtained by graduating from such an institution. A hair stylist could then seek employment at a salon or other similar establishment and pursue a specialty in hair coloring. Any stylist should try to work with hair coloring as much as possible in order to become a hair colorist. The stylist might offer to color the hair of friends or do hair coloring at the salon for other stylists, allowing them to focus on cutting hair while the stylist specializes in hair color.
If a stylist succeeds in becoming a hair colorist, one disadvantage to consider is that by entering a specialized field, the stylist may find it more difficult to find work. Anyone interested in becoming a hair colorist in the United States should contact The American Board of Certified Haircolorists (ABCH). Anyone who wants to work in the specialized field of hair color will benefit from being certified through the ABCH because it will bring a certified hair colorist into a group with professional contacts and an understanding of the industry.
While membership in the ABCH is not required to work as a hair colorist, it can help you stand out from the crowd by allowing you to use the title “Board Certified Haircolorist.” While there are other ways to become a hair colorist, such as through an apprenticeship with a friend or family member who is already in the industry, the direct approach of licensing through the NACCAS and certification through the ABCH will likely provide a person with more opportunities in the long run. In addition to the steps outlined above, anyone interested in becoming a hair colorist should seek out someone who is already working in the field and ask for any advice or suggestions.