Hair colorist duties focus mostly on changing the color of clients' hair using reactive chemicals. A hair colorist has extensive knowledge of the technicalities of hair color, depth, and tone. They must take into account the client’s hair type and style and any previous treatments. A good colorist may also need to fix hair color issues and correct mistakes from a subtle shade mismatch to removing a color. Color technicians must be excellent communicators in order to reach an understanding of the desired outcomes and looks for their clients.
Hair Colorist Duties
Welcome clients to the hair salon
Consult with clients and hair stylists about achieving the requested color-treated hairstyles
Blend own color formulas or pick the right color dye from the shelf
Time the dying process to obtain the desired results
Ensure the client is comfortable with the hair color products used
Apply the right color mix, specific to hair texture and desired results
Fix hair color problems, correct mistakes from a subtle shade mismatch to completely removing a color
Know how to bleach, dye hair, or add highlights to lighten sections of hair or lowlights to darken certain sections
Color correction for dye jobs gone bad
Colour individual client’s hair and hair extensions
Achieve hair color options in temporary, semi-permanent and permanent forms
Use application tools like brushes or wands
Wear protective gloves and sometimes aprons to shield themselves from the dyes and bleach
Work long shifts and spend almost their entire work period on their feet
Stay up to date on the latest equipment, coloring products, techniques, and hairstyle trends
Come up with creative colorwork for clients who want to do something radically different with their hair
Help clients mask/cover gray hair
Work with permanent and temporary dyes
Explain to customers sometimes several coloring sessions are required to achieve the end result act on customer complaints and to ensure they are dealt with to the mutual satisfaction
Wash, rinse, and dry clients’ hair using appropriate shampoos and conditioners
Apply hair treatment products, as needed (e.g. color protection creams and hydrating masks)
Consult clients and advise them of home hair color care needs
Watch out for the safety and health of clients by applying standards of the hair salon
Record color formulas in clients records in salon software
Maintain hygiene and cleanliness in the salon (e.g. sterilize tools)
Schedules clients, cancel by the request of clients, and assures customers that they will receive adequate service on time