Are you considering a career in the hair and beauty industry? Here are the top 8 hair and beauty jobs in high demand in the UK, along with information on why they are growing, average pay rates, and external factors that may be playing a part. We have also included the most prominent external factors effecting each career path as of 2023.
1. Hairdresser
Hairdressing is a career that has been around for centuries, and it’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Hairdressers are always in demand, and the average pay rate is around £20,000 per year. The hairdressing industry has been impacted by external factors such as Brexit and Covid-19, with many salons closing temporarily or permanently due to lockdowns and restrictions. More importantly a significant cohort of EU workers left the country never to return, and the steady influx of new stylists from the EU is no, which has led to a squeeze in hiring. This has enabled salaries to steadily increase.
2. Makeup Artist
Makeup artists work in a variety of settings, from fashion shows and photo shoots to weddings and special events. The makeup industry is growing, with the average pay rate for a makeup artist around £20,000 per year. External factors such as social media and online platforms have driven demand for new makeup trends, making this a career that’s always evolving.
3. Beauty Therapist
Beauty therapists provide a range of treatments, from facials and massages to waxing and nail care. The beauty industry is growing, with the average pay rate for a beauty therapist around £18,000 per year. External factors such as the rise of wellness and self-care trends have driven demand for beauty treatments, making this a career that’s only going to become more popular in the coming years.
4. Nail Technician
Nail technicians provide a range of services, from basic manicures and pedicures to more complex nail art designs. The nail industry is growing, with the average pay rate for a nail technician around £18,000 per year. Like a makeup artist, external factors such as social media and online platforms have driven demand for new nail trends, making this a career that’s only going to become more popular in the coming years.
5. Barber
Barbers work with men’s hair, providing a range of services from haircuts and shaves to beard trims and styling. The barber industry is growing, with the average pay rate for a barber around £20,000 per year. External factors such as the rise of the “lumbersexual” trend and the increasing popularity of male grooming have driven demand for barbers.
6. Spa Manager
Spa managers oversee the day-to-day operations of a spa, ensuring that everything runs smoothly and that customers receive the best possible experience. The spa industry is growing, with the average pay rate for a spa manager around £25,000 per year. External factors such as the desire for luxury experiences has led to an increase in the number of spas and spa managers needed to provide these services.
7. Aesthetician
Aestheticians provide a range of treatments, from laser hair removal and skin rejuvenation to Botox and fillers. The aesthetics industry is growing, with the average pay rate for an aesthetician around £20,000 per year. External factors such as the increase in disposable income and the desire for non-invasive cosmetic treatments has led to an increase in the number of aestheticians needed to provide these services.
8. Salon Owner
Salon owners are responsible for running their own business, from managing staff and finances to marketing and customer service. The average pay rate for a salon owner varies depending on the size and success of the business. External factors such as social media and online booking systems have made it easier for entrepreneurs to start their own salon businesses.