Become a hair color expert: tips.

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Becoming a hair color expert requires basic cosmetology training, passing a licensing exam, and advanced training in hair color formulations and application techniques. Hair color specialists have a high demand and typically earn between $42,000 and $46,000. They have a working knowledge of hair color chemistry and are skilled in performing special application techniques. Most color clients come in for touch-up appointments every four to six weeks, resulting in a regular clientele. Hair color specialists can build their business through word-of-mouth publicity and applying for salon jobs.

To become a hair color expert, you typically must complete basic cosmetology training or an apprenticeship and pass the appropriate licensing exam. Hair color specialists who receive advanced training in hair color formulations and application techniques are generally in high demand. Cosmetology training typically includes instruction in chemistry and hair color theory. Students also receive hands-on experience in customer consultation as well as color formulation and application. Often times, an individual chooses to become a hair color expert when they begin working as a licensed cosmetologist.

While cosmetologists learn the basics of hair color in school, most say they learned most of their professional coloring on the job. Skill as a colorist usually comes about through trial and error and seeking advice from more experienced colorists. Many hair color specialists periodically choose to take advanced courses in new hair color products and techniques. These courses may be offered by hair color manufacturers and beauty supply wholesalers.

Knowledge of hair color chemistry helps hair color specialists more accurately predict how a given hair color formula will react with a client’s natural hair color and condition. They have a working knowledge of available hair color types including permanent, demi-permanent and temporary. Hair color specialists are also skilled at performing special application techniques such as highlighting with strips or applying more than one color for special effects. Additional skills include applying highlights, low highlights, and color correction. They can also cover up gray hair or work with difficult hair tones like red.

Someone who chooses to become a hair color expert typically has a high volume of color clients. Most color clients come in for color touch-up appointments every four to six weeks, as hair grows at a rate of half an inch (about 1.27 cm) per month. As a result, a hair color specialist usually has a regular clientele that they see at least once a month.

Hair color experts typically earn between $42,000 and $46,000. Skill is a growing service performed by cosmetologists, and hair color specialists can tap into creative potential and even experiment with more shocking colors or color combinations on certain clients. A stylist who wants to become an expert in hair color may be able to build business through the word-of-mouth publicity that clients can provide. Applying for salon jobs that need this service can also help.




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