The main difference between hairdresser and stylist is that hairdressers work on shampooing, cutting and colouring hair while hairstylists work on styles – curls, perm, updos, etc.
However, in general, both the terms hairdresser and hairstylist refer to the same occupation that involves cutting or styling hair in order to change or maintain a person’s image. But, some high-end salons employ both hairdressers and hairstylists. Generally, hairdressers and hair stylists provide a range of hair care services, including shampooing, cutting, colouring, styling, and blow-drying. Although barbers are usually male, hairdressers and hair stylists can be male or female. They can work as employees of a salon or work independently.
Key Areas Covered
1. Who is a Hairdresser
– Definition, Duties, Skills
2. Who is a Hair Stylist
– Definition
3. Similarities Between Hairdresser and Stylist
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Hairdresser and Stylist
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
Hairdresser, Hairstylist, Stylist
Who is a Hairdresser
Hairdressers are trained professionals skilled in cutting, processing, and styling hair. When you go to a hairdresser, he or she will first have a good conversation about what kind of cut and look you want. They will advise you on different haircuts that will look better with your face shape and hair type. They may also recommend you products and services that will help you. Some of the services hairdressers offer include washing, shampooing, cutting, colouring, curling, straightening, and treating hair. Hairdressers usually stay up to date on the latest trends in hair cuts and styles.
To become a hairdresser, you need a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. You also need to complete a beauty or cosmetology program at a good school. Hairdressers work in a variety of settings – spas, salons, fashion shoots, film sets, etc. As they advance in their profession, they may want to specialize in a certain area like hair colour or perm. Some hairdressers achieve advancement in their career by opening or managing a salon or becoming a cosmetology instructor.
In addition to hairdressing skills, hairdressers need some other skills including creativity, good communication skills, friendly manner, good teamwork skills, attention to detail, cleanliness and good personal grooming.
Who is a Hair Stylist
In general, a hairstylist is just another name for a hairdresser. Moreover, the word hairstylist is more popular than a hairdresser, which is a bit out of fashion. However, some high-end salons employ both hairdressers and hairstylists. In such places, hairdressers work on shampooing, cutting and colouring hair while hairstylists work on styles – curls, perm, updos, etc. Hairstylists will help you decide the look you want and help you to create a perfect hairdo for special occasions.
Sometimes, we use the word stylist to refer to hairstylist. However, a stylist can refer to several professions: fashion stylists, beauty stylists, etc. A fashion stylist is a designer of fashionable styles of clothing. The word stylist can also refer to a writer or speaker who is renowned for matters of style.
Similarities Between Hairdresser and Stylist
- Both hairdressers and hairstylists refer to an occupation that involves cutting or styling hair in order to change or maintain a person’s image.
- The services they offer include washing, shampooing, cutting, colouring, curling, straightening, and treating hair.
- In addition to hairdressing/ hairstyling skills, they need skills and abilities such as creativity, good communication skills, attention to detail, cleanliness and good personal grooming.
Difference Between Hairdresser and Stylist
In general, there is no difference between hairdresser and stylist. These two words are synonyms and are interchangeable. However, some hair professionals make a distinction between these two terms. In this sense, hairdressers work on shampooing, cutting and colouring hair while hairstylists work on styles – curls, perm, updos, etc.
Conclusion
There is no difference between hairdresser and stylist. These two words are synonyms and are interchangeable. Both words refer to an occupation that involves cutting or styling hair in order to change or maintain a person’s image. In addition to good hairdressing skills, a hairstylist/ hairdresser should have excellent creative skills, communication skills, teamworking skills, and attention to detail.
Reference:
1. “What Does a Hairdresser Do?” ‐ CareerExplorer, Available here.
2. “What Does a Hair Stylist Do?” Khan Academy, Available here.
Image Courtesy:
1. “hairdresser, hair, maintenance, salon, woman, cutting, fashion, beauty, portrait, beautiful” (CC0) via Pxfuel.com
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