Barbers and hairstylists both provide hair services to help clients maintain or transform their looks. However, these two professions are not exactly the same, and understanding their differences may help you decide which path to pursue in trade school. Here's what to know about these two careers. 

Barber

Similarly to hairstylists, barbers cut, color, perm, and style hair. However, barbers generally work with short hair and beards, making their services popular among men. Additionally, they often specialize in traditional cuts and styles, utilizing clippers, scissors, and straight razors to help clients achieve a specific look. 

Barbers typically also provide razor shaves to remove hair from the face. This necessitates training in honing and stropping, which you can get at a barber school. Honing refers to smoothing out the blade after polishing and sharpening it; stropping is the process of straightening and aligning the teeth at the edge of the blade. These are techniques that can promote safety and ensure a close, accurate shave. 

To become a barber, you'll need a certificate, diploma, or associate's degree in barbering from a state-approved trade school. You'll also need to complete a certain number of training hours as part of your program. Though not necessarily required, pursuing an apprenticeship once you graduate can allow you to get hands-on experience and start building a client base. You'll also need to pass an exam administered by the Nebraska Board of Barber Examiners to earn your license and start practicing independently. 

Hairstylist 

Hairstylists offer cuts, colors, perms, and styles to clients with a variety of hair types and lengths. Their client base typically consists of both women and men. Stylists usually provide traditional styles and more contemporary cuts, depending on the requests of their clients, using tools such as scissors, heat styling irons, and hair dyes.

Hairstylists must attend cosmetology school and complete a specific number of training hours as mandated by the state board. After getting your certificate from an approved trade school, you'll need to apply for a Cosmetologist and Esthetician License and pass the state board exam before practicing in the field. 

Since cosmetology programs typically include instruction in skin care and nail arts, hairstylists frequently offer facials, makeup application, manicures, and pedicures as part of their services.

Whether you want to become a barber or hairstylist, enroll in College of Hair Design. This trade school offers programs in barber arts, cosmetology, and esthetics to students in Lincoln, NE. Call (402) 474-4244 to sign up for classes and ask about financial aid to cover the cost of tuition. Visit the website to learn more about how they can help you pursue your dream career.