Hairstylist resume

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Key skills for a hairstylist resume

Terms that job ads ask for and ATS filters look for. Only include the ones you master.

  • Haircuts
  • Hair coloring
  • Balayage and highlights
  • Blowouts and styling
  • Updos
  • Chemical treatments
  • Consultations
  • Client retention
  • Product sales
  • Sanitation

Tips for your hairstylist resume

  1. Put your state cosmetology or barber license near the top.
  2. List your specialties: cuts, color, balayage, extensions, curly hair or barbering.
  3. Add your book of clients or repeat client rate.
  4. Mention product sales and service upsells.
  5. Link your Instagram or portfolio with your work.
  6. Include advanced education and brand training.

Hairstylist resume summary examples

Adapt these examples with your real details: years of experience, industry, tools and certifications.

Experienced

Licensed hairstylist with 8 years of experience in a busy salon, specializing in color and balayage. I have a book of 250 regular clients, a 75% rebooking rate and I lead the salon in retail product sales. Advanced color certification from a professional brand.

Entry-level

Recently licensed cosmetologist with salon training in cuts, color and styling, and experience as a salon assistant shampooing and blow-drying. Portfolio of my work on Instagram. Looking for my first stylist chair.

Other job titles

Search for them too and use the one in the job ad on your resume.

  • Hair stylist
  • Cosmetologist
  • Barber
  • Colorist
  • Salon stylist
  • Hairdresser (UK)

How to write a hairstylist resume step by step

  1. Write a short summary

    Three or four lines with your license, experience, specialties and client base.

  2. Detail your experience

    In “Experience”, add the salon, services and results such as rebooking or sales.

  3. Add licenses and certifications

    In “Certificates”, list your state license and advanced education.

  4. Show your work

    In “Projects”, link your portfolio or social media with your work.

  5. Tailor your resume to the job ad and download it

    Paste the job ad into Beatjob: the AI improves the wording with the keywords your experience backs up. Then download the PDF.

More resume examples

Frequently asked questions about a hairstylist resume

Do hairstylists need a license?

Yes. All states require barbers, hairstylists and cosmetologists to be licensed. They usually complete a state-approved program and pass a state licensing exam.

What does the licensing exam include?

A written test and, in some states, a practical test of styling skills or an oral exam. Some states require continuing education for license renewal.

What should an entry-level hairstylist resume include?

Your license, school training, salon assistant experience and a portfolio of your work.

Sources

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Hairstylist resume: examples and tips | Beatjob