Hairdresser

What does a Hairdresser do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A hairdresser primarily works with cutting, coloring, shaping, and caring for hair for clients of various ages and preferences. The profession involves advising on hair care, suggesting hairstyles suited to face shape and style, and using various techniques for coloring, perming, and styling. Hairdressers are often responsible for appointments, cash handling, and keeping the workplace clean and welcoming. The work environment is characterized by social contact, creativity, and sometimes a fast pace, especially on weekends and peak seasons. Many work in salons, but there are also opportunities for self-employment or working at spas, hotels, or within the fashion industry.

Salary Development Over Time

The salary for hairdressers has shown a relatively stable development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,400 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 31 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary reached 31 700 SEK per month, which corresponds to a total increase of about 1% over the period. The modest growth can be explained by continued high competition within the industry, where many work part-time and pricing is often influenced by local market factors. Despite this, demand for hairdressers remains stable, and the profession is considered to have good employment prospects. Salary is also affected by education level, experience, and geographic location, with city salons sometimes offering slightly higher wages than smaller towns.

Hairdresser Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 31 700 SEK/month
• Lowest/Highest salary: Varies depending on experience and workplace
• Hourly wage: 190 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 32 300 SEK, data on men is unavailable
• Regional differences: Present, especially between urban and rural areas

Education and Qualifications

To work as a hairdresser, a high school vocational program with a specialization in hairdressing is usually required, followed by internships and sometimes journeyman exams. Many choose to supplement their education with courses in coloring, cutting techniques, or hair care to increase employability and broaden their skills. Some employers also require specific certifications, and it is common for newly trained hairdressers to start as trainees or apprentices to gain experience before obtaining full licensure.

• High school education: Vocational program, hairdressing specialization (3 years)
• Journeyman's exam: Recommended for professional certification
• Internship/apprenticeship: Usually 1–2 years after education
• Additional courses: Coloring, perming, advanced cutting techniques
• Certifications: May be required by some employers

Common Benefits and Compensation

Hairdressers are often offered benefits such as staff discounts on hair care products, commissions on sales, and sometimes bonus-based salaries. Some workplaces also provide wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further training. Other compensations may include holiday pay, evening or weekend work supplements, and insurance through the employer.

Competition and Challenges

Competition within the hairdressing industry is intense, especially in larger cities where many salons compete for the same customer base. A large number of hairdressers work part-time, which can make it harder to achieve a high and stable income. Additionally, trends and seasonal variations affect demand for certain services, requiring flexibility and adaptability. The recruitment situation nationally is characterized by difficulties in finding experienced hairdressers, even though many work part-time. Those who want to succeed long-term need to continually update their skills and build strong customer relationships to stand out in the competition.

Tips for Aspiring Hairdressers

To succeed as a hairdresser, it is good to combine technical skills with a strong sense of service. A creative flair makes it easier to suggest new hairstyles and adapt to clients' wishes, while attention to detail ensures each treatment is performed professionally. Good communication skills help understand customer needs and build long-term relationships, which are crucial for creating a stable client base. Flexibility is important, as working hours can vary and some periods may involve higher workload. Staying updated on new techniques and trends in hair care increases employability, and a friendly attitude helps create a positive atmosphere in the salon. Last but not least, being proactive and making your own contacts, especially if aiming to start your own salon, is advantageous.

Key Facts About Hairdressers

• Education level: High school (vocational program, hairdressing)
• Typical employment types: Part-time and full-time, often commission-based
• Work environment: Salons, spas, hotels, or own business
• Demand: Stable employment opportunities nationwide
• Special skills: Coloring, cutting techniques, customer service

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a hairdresser can advance to more specialized roles such as color technician, salon manager, or educator within the industry. Some choose to start their own salon or work in hair styling within fashion, theater, or media. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, job opportunities for hairdressers are expected to be plentiful, with stable demand over the next five years. Paradoxically, there is a recruitment challenge: while many work part-time, experienced hairdressers are difficult to find. The number of available jobs remains stable, offering good chances for newly trained professionals to establish themselves, especially if flexible regarding location and working hours.

Frequently Asked Questions about Hairdressers

• What does a Hairdresser earn?
  - The average salary for a hairdresser is 31 700 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and workplace.
• How does one become a hairdresser?
  - The common path is to attend the vocational program at high school, specializing in hairdressing, followed by internships and sometimes journeyman exams.
• Are there jobs for hairdressers?
  - Yes, the job market is considered good with stable demand and 36 available jobs in the profession according to the latest data.
• Is certification required to work as a hairdresser?
  - A journeyman's certificate is recommended, and some employers require certification, especially for advanced services.
• What personal qualities are important for a hairdresser?
  - Customer service skills, creativity, attention to detail, and good communication are central to success in the profession.
• What is the salary development for hairdressers?
  - Salaries have increased by about 1% over the past three years, with a stable but slow development.
• Where do hairdressers most often work?
  - Most work in salons, but some are also employed at spas, hotels, or run their own businesses.