Arkansas Hair Schools and Requirements

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

How to Become a Hair Designer in Arkansas

To become a hairstylist to clean, dry, and style hair in Arkansas, you must register with the state. But you need a cosmetology license if you want to do more than those procedures.

What Can Arkansas Hairstylists Do?

As Arkansas hairstylists don't need to attend hair school, they may only wash, clean, dry, comb or brush, and style hair. They can't cut, dye, or use chemicals. You need a full Arkansas cosmetology license to perform more comprehensive hair services, including cutting, dyeing, and chemical straightening.

Where Can I Work as a Hairstylist in Arkansas?

Arkansas hairstylists can work in beauty shops, hotels and resorts, and in a freelance or mobile capacity. Freelancers and mobile stylists often provide hairdos for special events like weddings. However, folks who work in that capacity likely need a business license, which is separate from hairstylist registration.

If you work in a shop with other beauty pros, you may need to work only when a registered cosmetologist is also on duty.

How Do I Become a Hairstylist in Arkansas?

You must choose between a hairstylist registration and a cosmetologist license to work on hair in Arkansas.

Arkansas hairstylist registration involves registering with the state health department and paying a $10 fee. You may also need to get a business license.

If you opt for the cosmetology route, you must take 1,200 hours of classes and pass exams. Classes cover hair, nails, makeup, and more.

READ MORE: Learn More About Arkansas Cosmetology School

You could always decide to work as a registered hairstylist first then earn your cosmetology license later. This route would let you see if you like the field and allow you to build a client base.

Can Arkansas Hairstylists Engage in Natural Hair Braiding?

No. You need a hair braiding registration to work as a hair braider in Arkansas, which has a few different requirements. But you can, of course, have both a hairstyling and hair braiding license!

READ MORE: Learn More About Arkansas Hair Braiding School

Hairdressing Salary in Arkansas

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Arkansas hairstylists, hairdressers, and cosmetologists average $28,510 per year ($13.71 per hour) as of 2022. O*Net finds that the highest-paid hair pros work in the Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers area at $23,760 to $42,030 annually. Fort Smith and Hot Springs follow in terms of pay, with a similar lowest pay but a much smaller highest amount.

These amounts don't include Arkansas' freelance hairstylists, which many hair professionals are. Talk to other stylists in your area to determine what you can reasonably expect to earn.

Contact the Arkansas State Board of Cosmetology