Hair Braiding Schools in Texas

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

How to Become a Hair Braider in Texas

If you're interested in continuing a long tradition of hair styling that requires creativity and flexibility, it's time to look into hair braiding! Hair braiding is one of the fastest growing specialties in cosmetology, since people are realizing how convenient and long-lasting braids can be. This specialty may even help you get started in your career more quickly than a traditional cosmetology license. If you want to speak with beauty schools in Texas that offer hair braiding programs near you, simply use our free directory today to request more info!

Education Details

As a hair braider, you may have to pull fairly tightly on the scalp to ensure a secure, durable braid. That's why you need to know all about the scalp! Your curriculum may include skin types, common scalp disorders, and proper scalp care before and after braiding. On the practical side of your training, you'll likely learn how to wash the scalp and keep it healthy between braiding sessions. Braiding practice may be the most important part of your training. Being able to deliver high-quality braids to your clients is likely the fastest way to grow your business and reputation. Customers may request many types of braids, so a school that teaches lots of types of hair braiding in Texas may be a good choice. Braiding styles that are often taught include single braids, cornrows, Senegalese twists, knots, and hair locking. You might also learn how to use extensions in your hair braiding. Although you may start out by watching your instructor, you can expect to spend most of your time getting hands-on experience.

Texas Hair Braiding Careers

While the job outlook and salary potential can be great for hair braiders, you must first meet licensing requirements set out by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. Natural hair braiders must complete 35 hours of training in sanitation, hygiene, and braiding. You can then apply for your license; no examination is required in this specialty. The average salary for a Texas cosmetology worker is $22,100 per year, according to O*Net. The reported range of salaries goes from $16,600 to $43,700 per year (O*Net, 2013). As you become more established in your community and build a solid client base, your earning potential may increase. Texas also offers beauty specialists a promising job outlook. In the years between 2010 and 2020, O*Net predicts a 21% increase in job openings for cosmetologists. This exciting growth rate is 8% higher than the national average (O*Net, 2010).

Hair braiding has exploded in popularity in Texas, leading to a new license and a variety of hair braiding certification programs. What does this mean for you as a hair braider? It means that people are finding out about this great hair styling technique and looking for someone that can offer these services. Part of your career is centered around patient education. Those who have never gone to a hair braider before may ask you about what you can do with their hair, how they need to take care of their hair after braiding, and what styles are available to them. As a hair braider, you should be able to market your services. Isis Brantley, one of the most well-known hair braiders in Texas, built her career with braiding videos and in-person marketing techniques. Your schedule can change from day to day in this specialty, so you should be able to adjust your work schedule to suit clients' needs. Like other cosmetology specialists, braiders often work evenings and weekends in addition to traditional work hours. In the early part of your career, you may work longer hours. Your hours may decrease slightly as you work more quickly and efficiently. This can give you the freedom to run your business as you choose.

Contact the Texas State Board of Cosmetology