How to Be Wig Stylist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Sep 3, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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Hair wigs have become increasingly popular over the past few years as a means of quickly and easily changing one's look. As a result, the demand for wig stylists has grown significantly. A wig stylist is an expert in cutting, trimming, and styling wigs in order to create the desired look.

They must have an eye for detail and have the ability to work with various types of hair, such as synthetic and human hair wigs. With their specialized knowledge and skill, wig stylists can create custom looks and styles that fit each individual customer's needs. Furthermore, they can provide advice on care and maintenance of wigs to ensure that wearers maintain their desired look for longer.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Professional Cosmetology License. In order to become a wig stylist, you will need to obtain a professional cosmetology license, which is required in most states. This typically requires attending a state-approved cosmetology school and passing an exam.
Take Wig Styling Courses. Many cosmetology schools offer courses in wig styling or you may be able to find independent classes in your area. These courses will teach you how to properly measure and fit wigs, as well as how to customize and style them.
Practice. Once youve learned the basics of wig styling, it is important to practice as much as possible. This will help you develop your skills and become more confident in your abilities. You may want to practice on friends or family members who dont mind being your guinea pigs.
Build Your Portfolio. Take photos of your work and compile them into a portfolio that you can show prospective clients. This will help you land jobs and build your reputation as a wig stylist.
Network. Networking is a great way to find new clients and build relationships with other professionals in the beauty industry. Attend networking events, join local beauty organizations, and ask for referrals from existing clientele.
Market Yourself. Market yourself as a wig stylist by creating a website, posting flyers, and using social media to promote your services. You may also want to consider offering discounts or special deals for new clients.

The key to staying ahead and competent as a wig stylist is to constantly stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques. By subscribing to beauty-focused magazines and blogs, attending workshops and classes, and networking with other professionals in the industry, wig stylists can ensure they are knowledgeable about the latest hair trends and styles. This knowledge can then be used to create unique and creative looks for clients, which will help them stand out from their competition and stay ahead in the field.

Furthermore, creating relationships with other industry professionals can help wig stylists stay connected and informed about upcoming trends or events, as well as provide them with a support system. With dedication and hard work, wig stylists can stay competent and remain competitive in the industry.

You may want to check Wig Designer, Hair Braiding Artist, and Hair Extensions Specialist for alternative.

Job Description

Consult with clients regarding their desired hairstyle and hair care needs
Cut and shape hair using scissors, razors, clippers, and other styling tools
Analyze clients hair type, face shape, and other factors to determine best styling options
Create custom looks to accommodate individual preferences
Style and color hair using various techniques such as highlights, lowlights, color blocking, foiling, and balayage
Apply conditioners and treatments to enhance the quality of the hair
Recommend hair care products and styling techniques to clients
Provide maintenance services such as trims and touch-ups
Keep records of client information and preferences
Maintain cleanliness of work station and sanitize tools and equipment

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of different types of hair, including characteristics, textures, and styling needs.
Ability to assess clients hair and recommend suitable wig styles and colors.
Proficiency in using professional hair styling tools such as curling irons, flat irons, and blow dryers.
Knowledge of wig construction and maintenance techniques.
Ability to customize wigs to suit individual clients needs and preferences.
Creativity and imagination in creating stylish and fashionable looks.
Strong interpersonal skills to build rapport with clients and make them feel comfortable.
Patience and attention to detail when styling wigs.
Ability to stay up-to-date with the latest wig trends and technologies.
Knowledge of wig-care products and techniques.

Being a successful wig stylist requires a number of important skills. Attention to detail is essential, as wig styling requires precision and accuracy. Creative vision is also essential, as wig styling requires the ability to recognize and create unique styles.

strong communication skills are essential, as wig stylists must be able to clearly communicate with clients in order to understand their needs. Time management is also crucial, as wig styling requires the ability to work efficiently and meet deadlines. Finally, wig stylists must be knowledgeable about hair care products and techniques in order to provide the best service to their clients.

All of these skills are essential for a wig stylist to have in order to be successful in their career.

Hair Coloring Artist, Mobile Hair Stylist, and Hair Product Educator are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have styling wigs?
How comfortable are you working with human and synthetic hair?
What techniques do you use to style wigs to ensure they look natural?
Do you have any experience in custom wig-making?
How do you stay up-to-date on new trends and styling techniques for wigs?
How would you handle a customer who is unhappy with the way their wig looks?
Describe a difficult problem you faced while styling a wig and how you solved it.
What steps do you take to ensure a wig is properly fitted to a customer?
How do you handle customer questions and concerns about wig maintenance?
How do you handle pressure or difficult situations when styling wigs?

Common Tools in Industry

Hair Straightener . Used to smooth and straighten hair. (eg: GHD Platinum Styler)
Curling Iron . Used to create curls and waves in the hair. (eg: Hot Tools Professional Curling Iron)
Hair Dryer . A device used to blow warm or hot air onto wet or damp hair, speeding up the drying process. (eg: Dyson Supersonic Hair Dryer)
Clips and Bobby Pins . Used to secure sections of hair while styling. (eg: Goody Ouchless Hair Clips)
Rat Tail Comb . Used to part and section the hair. (eg: Diane Rat Tail Comb)
Brush . Used to detangle and smooth the hair. (eg: Spornette Little Wonder Brush)
Hair Extensions . Used to add length and volume to the hair. (eg: Luxy Hair Clip-in Hair Extensions)
Hair Products . Products used to add texture, hold, and shine to the hair. (eg: Aveda Control Paste)
Wig Cap . Used to secure a wig onto the head. (eg: Revlon Wig Cap)
Wig Stand . Used to hold a wig while styling or drying it. (eg: Wig Stand and Styrofoam Head)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Cosmetology Association (NCA)
Professional Beauty Association (PBA)
International Wig Association (IWA)
American Board of Certified Haircolorists (ABCH)
American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS)
National Hairdressers and Cosmetologists Association (NHC)
International Association of Trichologists (IAT)
International Academy of Beauty Arts and Sciences (IABAS)
Wig and Hairpiece Manufacturers Association (WHMA)
International Hairdressers & Beauticians Association (IHBA)

We also have Hair Stylist Educator, Mobile Hair Colourist, and Wig Maker and Fitter jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Hair Cutting. The process of using scissors or clippers to trim the hair.
Hair Coloring. The process of applying color to the hair in order to alter its tone and/or shade.
Hair Styling. The process of using tools and techniques to create a desired look on the hair.
Hair Extensions. The process of adding artificial or natural hair to the existing hair in order to increase its length and volume.
Hair Coloring Techniques. Different methods used for changing the color of the hair, including highlights, balayage, ombre, and more.
Hair Treatments. Various treatments used to improve the condition of the hair, such as deep conditioning, protein treatments, and hot oil treatments.
Hair Products. Different products used for styling and maintaining the hair, such as shampoos, conditioners, mousses, gels, and hairspray.
Updos. A hairstyle where the hair is styled in an updo or bun at the back or on the top of the head.
Blowouts. The process of styling the hair using a blow dryer and/or round brush.
Braiding. The process of weaving strands of hair together to form a braid.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications should a Wig Stylist possess?

A Wig Stylist should possess a basic understanding of hairstyling techniques and knowledge of wig construction and maintenance. They should also have experience working with a variety of hairpieces and wigs, as well as a good eye for detail.

How much does a Wig Stylist typically charge per session?

The cost of a wig styling session can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the style and the type of hairpiece. Generally, wig stylists charge between $50-$150 per hour.

What tools and materials are used by a Wig Stylist?

Wig stylists typically use various tools such as combs, scissors, curling irons, flat irons, hair dryers, and styling products. They may also use tools such as wig blocks, styling wands, wig stands, and wig caps.

What type of hairpieces does a Wig Stylist typically work with?

Wig stylists typically work with a variety of hairpieces including human hair wigs, synthetic wigs, and toupees. They may also work with hair extensions and integration pieces.

What is the typical turnaround time for a Wig Styling service?

The turnaround time for a wig styling service can vary depending on the complexity of the style and the type of hairpiece. Generally, it takes between 1-3 hours to finish a wig styling session.

Web Resources

Just For You Wig Salon | SIU School of Medicine - siumed.edu www.siumed.edu
Wigs and Hair Stylist Career Education and Professional oneillcareerhub.indiana.edu
Just For You Wig Salon | SIU School of Medicine - siumed.edu www.siumed.edu