Colorado Hair Braiding Schools and Requirements

Although you once needed a full cosmetology license to be a hair braider in Colorado, as of 2018, you don't need a license or formal training to practice. The state removed this requirement for those becoming hair braiders under the assumption that many learned the art through family and friends—these skills are frequently passed down from generation to generation.

Browse our directory of hair braiding schools in Colorado, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair braiding licensing requirements and job outlook.

What Can Hair Braiders in Colorado Do?

Hair braiders in Colorado can perform services that use tension but not scissors, dye, chemicals, or other hair-altering products. Your hair braiding services, which you can do by hand or with a mechanical device, could include:

• Braiding
• Extending
• Locking
• Twisting
• Weaving
• Wrapping

You should get a Colorado cosmetology or hairstylist license to cut, dye, or perform other hair treatments.

Colorado Cosmetology vs. Hairstylist Licenses for Hair Braiders

Both cosmetology and hairstylist licenses in Colorado let hair braiders perform more extensive services like hair cutting and dyeing. However, there are some differences between the two, namely in what they allow you to do and how long they take to complete.

If you want to extend your hair braiding services to include other aspects of hair design and nothing else, you should consider a hairstyling license. This lets you cut, dye, style, and otherwise treat hair but not do nails or work on skin. You must attend hair school for about one year.

READ MORE: Learn More About Hair School in Colorado

But if you want to do a bit of everything, including nail and skin treatments, a cosmetology license will be better for you.

READ MORE: Learn More About Cosmetology School in Colorado

How Much Do Colorado Hair Braiders Earn?

ZipRecruiter reports that Colorado hair braiders earned an average of $35,434 annually as of December 2023. The site also found that self-employed braiders in the state made much more at $45,580.

ZipRecruiter updates its salaries frequently, using job listings as the primary reference. While this means you can get a nearly real-time idea of the possible pay, the details are also largely limited to companies that have listed jobs. The best way to figure out how much you could earn more precisely is to talk to other hair braiders with your chosen specialties and type of employment.

Contact the Colorado State Board of Cosmetology