Hair Braider Career Overview
Opportunities for skilled hair braiders continue to grow in the United States. People will pay good money for an expert hair braiding that enhances their appearance and makes them feel good about themselves. With training and certification, you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career as a hair braider, whether you focus exclusively on this art or add your new skill to the repertoire of offerings at your salon or spa.
You’ll learn to work with the unique hair texture of African-Americans, as they make up the majority of hair braiding clients. During your training, try to work with as many different hair lengths and textures as possible. This develops your fine motor skills. Hair braiding is an intricate art that requires careful work. You’ll also want to be comfortable with standing for a prolonged period of time because it can take several hours to complete new braids for an entire head of hair. Communication skills are also important so you can understand and fulfill the customer’s wishes.
All states require barbers, hairdressers, and cosmetologists to be licensed, including hair braiders. To qualify for a license, you’ll need to complete a state-approved cosmetology program. A high school diploma or equivalent is also required by many employers.
How Much Do Hair Braiders Make?
Hair braiders make good money, with the national average from ZipRecruiter sitting at $34,713, and the range between $20,000-$52,500. A hair braiding session can cost anywhere from $100 to $300 depending on the look the client desires. Even if you work with only two clients a day you can see this is an opportunity to make a nice income.
This is also a growth industry. Employment of hairstylists, a group that includes hair braiders, is projected to grow 8 percent through 2028, faster than the average for all occupations. Population growth will lead to greater demand for hair care services, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Resources to help in starting or expanding your Hair Braider career:
- Hair Braider Associations
- Hair Braider School and Certification
- Hair Braider Social Groups
- Hair Braider Licensing
