You see them on the cover of hair care products or for promotional events for various salons, fashion designers, and more. Who are they? Hair modeling is a type of modeling that has garnered a lot of attention due to the vast number of opportunities available.
Imagine walking down the runway with your beautiful hair flowing behind you. Or sitting in a stylist's chair, watching them turn your hair into a masterpiece. If this sounds exciting, you're in the right place to learn about hair modeling.
So, interested in learning how to become a hair model? Through this article, we'll explore what a hair model is, salary expectations, requirements, and how to become one.
What is a Hair Model?
A hair model is someone who highlights various hairstyles, cuts, and colors for professionals in the hair industry. They team up with experts like photographers and makeup artists to create beautiful looks. You'll see them working in hair shows, photo shoots, videos, and more.
Hair models belong to the parts model niche. Unlike traditional models, they don't have to showcase their entire body to promote hair-related products or services.
However, don't take this as an opportunity to avoid other areas of your body. Casting directors factor in a lot of elements, such as skin tone, age, and more, when choosing the right hair model.
In short, hair modeling is a great way for aspiring models to learn from top professionals and gain valuable experience in the beauty world.
The Role of a Hair Model
As a hair model, your main job is to help promote hair products and services. Further, you'll collaborate with hair stylists, product companies, and ad agencies to make their ideas come to life.
Most hair models work part-time, some full-time, or have varying schedules. Freelance hair models enjoy flexible hours. But, both freelance and agency-based models can have successful careers.
Before we discuss the requirements, you should know that being a hair model doesn't just mean having long, luscious black hair. You can have short hair and still make it big in the hair modeling industry.
How to Become a Hair Model?
Here are a few tips you need to consider if you want to learn how to become a hair model:
1. Build Your Hair Modeling Portfolio
Having an online portfolio is non-negotiable in this day and age. Online portfolios, if you aren't aware of them, are platforms you can use to showcase your stunning work to prospective clients or agencies.
Clients or agents can assess your style and approach through your online portfolio to ensure you're the right fit.
So, how does one get started with creating an online modeling portfolio? For non-tech-savvy people, website builders such as Pixpa provide a great avenue to design functional and stunning online portfolios.
You don't need to learn coding, all you need to do is select from a large library of model templates and customize the site to your needs.
Once you have created a portfolio, the next step is to upload professional photos. We would suggest hiring a professional photographer to take photos in various styles and conditions.
Showcase your hair modeling techniques by highlighting your versatility by including photos of different hairstyles, colors, and lengths, if possible. This helps potential clients see how your hair can be adapted to different looks.
Check out examples of stunning online model portfolios built using Pixpa.
2. Follow a Great Hair Care Routine
As a hair model, keeping your hair healthy and looking great is key. Regular conditioning is a must, whether you have long or short hair. Conditioning helps to protect your hair against dryness and damage.
The general rule of thumb is to condition your hair a few times a week. This will keep your hair nourished and easy to style.
Trust your stylist and client for hair care product advice. Use the recommended shampoos, conditioners, styling aids, and treatments.
Frequent visits to a stylist are part and parcel of becoming a hair model. Regular haircuts and styling advice from a pro are important. Trimming your hair every 6-8 weeks stops split ends and keeps it looking great.
Also, getting color treatments and deep conditioning helps keep your hair vibrant throughout your modeling career.
3. Apply for Hair Modeling Jobs
Want to land a high-paying job as a hair model? Connect with hair stylists, product companies, and ad agencies. Keep up with job openings and network with professionals in the field.
Building Connections
Directly contact companies to show your interest and skills. Being flexible with hairstyles and textures makes you stand out. Working with a top modeling agency can give you more job chances and resources.
Applying to Casting Websites
Don't miss out on casting websites and social media for hair modeling jobs. These platforms list many opportunities, from fashion shows to product ads. Look for hair model job search strategies and apply actively for hair modeling gigs.
Partnering and Joining a Modeling Agency
Teaming up with a well-known modeling agency can greatly improve your job prospects. Working with an agency with strong connections can help guide you in the competitive world of hair modeling. With the right agency, you'll get insights, job leads, and support to land a hair modeling gig.
4. Take Modeling Classes and Practice Your Technique
Maintaining healthy hair is not enough if you want to become a hair model. Research and learn new hair modeling techniques to help you stand out from the competition.
Gain inspiration from successful hair models in the industry. Try to either mimic their approach or add your unique touch.
Attending modeling schools can help you learn the basics of hair care, portfolio creation, photo shoot etiquette, and more.
5. Network and Attend Auditions
Networking is one of the key strategies you can use to land gigs and casting calls. One way to go about it is by interacting with salon professionals looking to hire models for photo shoots.
For instance, salons might be looking for hair models with long hair to showcase their skills by styling your hair. This includes before and after photos and videos that can be published on social media channels and brand websites.
Having a social media presence will also help greatly in connecting with professionals who are part of the hair modeling industry. For this, you need to post regularly, utilize hashtags, interact with followers, and build your fan following.
Attending auditions is another way through which you can get work and network for future opportunities. Hair modeling auditions can take place at hair salons, shops that deal in hair care, and local events hosted by hair-related industry suppliers.
Carry out your own research and look for open auditions. These auditions can provide you with much-needed traction and networking exposure for future roles. Also, look into casting calls for hair models through casting platforms.
What Are the Requirements to Become a Hair Model?
To be a successful hair model, you need to meet certain requirements. Let's explore some of the requirements you need to know to become a successful hair model.
Healthy, Clean, and Well-Maintained Hair
As a hair model, you need hair that looks great and is in top shape. It should be vibrant, shiny, and easy to style. Taking good care of your hair is very important.
Now, there may be instances wherein you'll have to conduct a trial on your hair. This may include dyeing your hair or testing out different products. Therefore, maintaining your hair health is essential.
Be Confident With the Hair Stylist
When it comes to hair stylists, the majority of people prefer to stick to one mainly because they're aware of your hair condition, styling, and more.
As a hair model, you'll be working with a lot of hair stylists on various photo shoots. As a professional, you need to respect their work and place trust in them.
Having constant communication with the hair stylist can make you feel comfortable and put your mind at peace.
Flexibility Is Key
Hair modeling career can be very taxing. You'll need to hold different poses, take care of your hair on a constant basis, and maintain a certain style for extended periods. Constant touch-ups or complete hairstyle changes are a common norm in the hair modeling field, so you need to be mentally resilient as well.
Maintain Professionalism and Availability
No matter the industry you're in, maintaining a professional outlook is essential if you want to make it big in the hair modeling industry.
Always reach the shoot location at least an hour prior and carry a great work ethic that'll make it easy for others to work with you.
Also, try to be flexible with your schedule, as hair modeling jobs may require last-minute bookings or multiple days of commitment.
Diverse Hair Portfolio
Having a portfolio that shows off your hair's versatility is key. It should show you can handle different styles, whether your hair is short or long, straight or curly. This helps attract clients and get more bookings.
How Much Do Hair Models Earn?
According to ZipRecruiter, hair models, on average, make around $17 an hour, with the highest being $21 and the lowest being $12. In terms of annual salary, the highest you can earn as a hair model in the US is around $54,000.
Being a hair model can pay well, but it's a tough field. Your portfolio, networking, and ability to change up your look matter a lot.
Some hair types and skills are more wanted than others. For example, men with thick, healthy hair are often in demand because many men start losing hair early.
Your earnings as a hair model show how valuable you are. Keep getting better at what you do, be professional, and follow industry trends. This way, you can make the most money and have a great career as a hair model.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the requirements and qualifications needed to become a hair model.
- Discover the different types of hair modeling opportunities available.
- Learn how to build a strong portfolio and network to land hair modeling gigs.
- Explore the earning potential and career growth in the hair modeling industry.
- Gain insights on maintaining healthy, camera-ready hair as a hair model.
Conclusion
Becoming a successful hair model takes dedication, preparation, and a desire to learn and grow. You need to meet industry standards, build a strong portfolio, and use smart strategies to find work.
Always prioritize your hair's health and maintenance first. Connect with others in the industry and always be professional and adaptable. With the right mindset, you can make your hair a valuable asset in the exciting world of hair modeling.
For those wanting to be hair models, stay true to your craft. Keep learning and improving your skills. Be ready for the industry's changes. By doing this, you'll be on your way to a successful career as a hair model.
FAQ
What is a hair model?
A hair model is someone who shows off different hairstyles, haircuts, and colors. They work with professional hair stylists, companies, and the beauty industry.
What is the primary role of a hair model?
Hair models help promote hair products and services. They show off new hairstyles, hair colors, and how well hair care products work.
What are the key requirements to become a successful hair model?
To be a successful hair model, you need healthy, clean hair. You should trust hair stylists and have a portfolio that shows your hair's versatility.
How can I become a hair model?
Start by researching and preparing. Network in the hair and beauty industry. Apply for jobs through casting platforms, social media, or directly to companies and agencies.
What strategies can I implement to increase my chances of landing a hair modeling job?
Increase your chances by building industry connections and reaching out to companies. Consider partnering with a modeling agency. Apply to casting calls on platforms and social media.
How important is hair care for a hair model?
Hair care is key for hair models. Use recommended products and visit a stylist for trims and advice. Regular conditioning is also essential.
What is the earning potential for hair models?
Hair models can earn between $43,000 and $54,000 a year in the U.S. Earnings vary by client, job, experience, and location.
Where can I find casting calls and opportunities for hair modeling?
Look for casting calls on casting platforms and social media. Follow hair salons, product companies, and industry professionals on Instagram and Facebook for job postings.
How diverse is the hair modeling industry?
The industry is very diverse. It includes models of all ages, sizes, and backgrounds. This diversity shows the beauty and versatility of hair.
What can I do to build a successful and long-lasting career as a hair model?
For a successful career, keep learning and improving. Stay updated on hair trends and techniques. Network and be professional and adaptable for each job.