Massachusetts Hair School and Requirements

You need a cosmetology license to become a hairdresser in Massachusetts. While your licensure program focuses primarily on hair, esthetics and nail treatments are also covered. Once you're done with your cosmetology program, you can go to hair school to learn more about specific skills and how to really sell yourself as a hairstylist.

Here, we give you an overview of how to become a hairstylist in Massachusetts, even if you're from another state, and how much you may earn in this career. Browse our directory of hair design schools in Massachusetts, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair design licensing requirements and job outlook.

How to Become a Hairdresser in Massachusetts

Hairstylists in Massachusetts must attend a 1,000-hour cosmetology program and pass written and practical tests. Your program should cover:

• Hair coloring
• Chemical hair relaxing and perming
• Hair braiding
• Various curling methods
• Hair cutting
• Hair cleaning
• Infection control and safety
• Esthetics services (facials, makeup, etc.)

As you can see, the cosmetology programs in Massachusetts could essentially be considered hair schools with additional training. But if you want to learn more about hair, you can take other classes in person or online to hone your favorite skills.

READ MORE: Learn More About Massachusetts Cosmetology School

If hair braiding is your passion, you can generally practice that trade without a license. However, unlike many states, Massachusetts cosmetology schools must teach this topic. So you should have some prep work whichever way you choose!

Moving to Massachusetts With a Hair License

If you have a hair license from another state and want to practice in Massachusetts, you need to take classes in the cosmetology areas you didn't study. You don't have to start from scratch, but you should prepare to finish that work before beginning to practice.

Massachusetts Hairdresser Salary

ZipRecruiter reports that, as of December 2023, Massachusetts hairstylists average about $44,994 per year ($22 per hour). Meanwhile, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) says hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in the state averaged $48,710 ($23.42) as of 2022. However, both resources only look at those employed by others, meaning freelance and work-from-home hair professionals are omitted.

In addition to your workplace, your location, years of experience, and specialties can all affect your potential hairstylist salary.

Contact the Massachusetts State Board of Cosmetology