Master Barber

Master Barber Careers

Barbering is a popular type of cosmetology career. Barbers focus on haircutting, and grooming, primarily for men, with an emphasis on precision and speed. Master barbers are barbers at the top of their game. They have the licensing, certification, and experience to prove that their barbering skills are exceptional. Master barbers offer their clients the following: Maximum speed and precision A wider range of cuts and grooming techniques Advanced knowledge in related services such as hair coloring and waving Professional interpersonal communication skills

Master Barber Career Overview

Most master barbers operate their own barbershops or work in beauty salons. They pride themselves on building up a loyal clientele. Being a savvy businessperson is important. The most successful barbers are just as knowledgeable about finances and marketing strategies as they are about razors and shears.

Many master barbers enter local and even national competitions to increase their notoriety. If you're interesting in pursuing a career as a master barber, you'll want to stay current by taking courses and attending seminars throughout your career. New products are always being introduced and new techniques are always emerging. You might begin barbering as an apprentice, but after years of experience, you may be ready to accept apprentices of your own!

Master Barber Requirements

Master barbers must begin by receiving basic training, either through barber school, cosmetology school, or an apprenticeship program—depending on the state requirements. The cosmetology school option offers the greatest breadth of opportunity. Here you can choose from many cosmetologist careers , such as nail technician or colorist, rather than focusing strictly on barbering.

However, if you're sure that barbering is the career for you, an accredited barber school or barbering apprenticeship program may get you there faster with more relevant hands-on experience. Just be sure to research the criteria and licensure requirements of your state. In some states, only cosmetologist licenses are available. A degree from a cosmetology school is required, and there is no separate licensing program for barbers.

The requirements for a master barber license also vary state to state. You may be required to work under the supervision of an experienced master barber for up to two years before you can take the exam to become a master barber yourself. Other states may require you to complete formal training and be licensed and work as a barber for a certain period of time before applying for a master barber license.

A specific master barber license may not be available in your state, but you can still become a barber and pursue advanced training or certification to call yourself a master barber. The key is to be able to demonstrate that your skills meet the highest standards of the barbering profession. Be patient, set goals, and strive for excellence in your barbering profession.

Return to the Beauty Career Center home page.

Looking for Barber Schools or Beauty Schools?

Try our Spa, Massage & Beauty Schools page. There you will find a comprehensive list of schools which offer program descriptions. You can also request information from the schools that interest you most.

Sources:
BeautySchooled.info, 2009
AllExperts.com, 2008