Indiana Hair School and Requirements

To be a hairstylist in Indiana, you need a cosmetology or a barbering license, depending on which treatments you want to provide. Both options teach a lot about hair styling and treatments, but their primary services are a little different.

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

Which Is the Best Indiana Hair School Option for Me?

In Indiana, cosmetology and barbering licenses are the two options for budding hairstylists. The big difference between them is barbers predominantly work on short hair, while cosmetologists can work on all lengths. Cosmetologists are also trained in treatments other than just hair.

Specifically, cosmetologists in Indiana are trained in nails, skincare, and hair. The bulk of the program is dedicated to haircare, though. Of their 1,500 required hours of education, cosmetologists-in-training spend at least 1,105 on hair styling, cutting, coloring, and more hair-related topics. Most Indiana hair schools don't teach about hair braiding, as it's not a licensed field. If you want to offer braids and other natural styles, look for schools that offer that as additional programming.

Barbers also spend 1,500 hours in training, with 1,000 hours dedicated to all sorts of hair treatments. They also learn to work on hair pieces and facial hair. You don't just have to see male clients as a barber-they see people of all genders!

At the end of the day, do you want to focus on short or long hair? Do you want to work on facial hair, or would you rather do nails and makeup? This should inform your decision about which program and career to pursue.

READ MORE: Learn About Cosmetology School in Indiana

READ MORE: Learn About Barber School in Indiana

Indiana Hairdresser Salary

As of 2022, Indiana cosmetologists and hair professionals earned an average of about $31,100 annually. Barbers average just $100 less. However, these amounts don't factor in self-employed barbers or hairstylists, so it's best to talk to others in that position to determine your possible pay. It's also important to remember that location, type of workplace, and years of experience all factor into how much you could make.

Contact the Indiana State Board of Cosmetology