Hair Schools in Iowa

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

How to Become a Hair Designer in Iowa

No matter your age, gender, career, or personal style, your hair likely plays a big role in your appearance and your self-esteem. Maybe you like to look at new hairstyles, imagine what they'd look like on other people, or even try them out on yourself.

If you want to explore a career in hair design and hair cutting, a hair design program in Iowa may be the next step in your career. Contact the hair design schools in Iowa that are listed on our page to learn more about your options.

State License Requirements

Iowa has strict regulations in place for cosmetologists and hair designers. In order to start working in this field, you must meet the standards of the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences. This involves earning a full cosmetology license, as Iowa does not have a specific license just for hair design. You must complete 2,100 hours of education at an approved beauty school before taking your cosmetology exam.

Education Details

Your curriculum should tackle many aspects of a cosmetology career and the beauty industry. You may spend a considerable amount of time on hair styling techniques like pin curling, roller setting, blow-drying, up-dos, and casual hair styles. In addition, you learn how to work with a variety of chemicals to straighten, dye, or curl customers' hair. You can plan on spending over 100 hours discovering hair cutting techniques and practicing them on mannequins and customers. Instructors at your school may also cover working with hair of different textures and lengths, expanding your abilities and talents. As you proceed through your program, you may spend progressively more time with your own customers, honing and refining your skills.

License Renewal

Iowa is no different than most states that require cosmetology licensure to become a hair designer to work legally. The upside is that you will acquire additional skills that you can use to qualify for more types of salon jobs. In this state, you must complete at least 2,100 hours of cosmetology training for licensure. Once you obtain this goal, you will need to renew your license and pay the fees to keep in good standing. Currently, Iowa requires license holders to renew their license in even-numbered years by December 31st. The fee is currently $60.

Iowa Hair Design Careers

Iowa is an exciting place to begin your hair design career. Though the national job outlook for hair designers is great, it's particularly positive in Iowa. From 2016 until 2026, O*Net anticipates a 12% increase in cosmetology job openings. Hair dressing salaries in Iowa depend a lot on where you work and how much experience you gain as a stylist. Working in a high-end salon may let you earn more than working in a salon chain, for example. O*Net reports a statewide average of $25,990 per year for hairstylists in Iowa.

A career in hair design involves far more than just cutting hair and styling hair for special events. Bella Shahmoradian, an experienced hair stylist and author, notes that there are many aspects of a successful hairstyling career. You must be willing to spend quite a bit of time marketing to get new clients and keep old ones. This may involve reaching out to other beauty professionals, attending vendor shows and expos, and contacting old clients to get them back into your chair. Communication is something to keep in mind as you start your hairdressing career. Clients want great cosmetology skills and excellent service, so you should be able to communicate effectively about clients' wants and needs in regards to their hair. Hairstyling is a career path that demands flexibility, so be prepared to work a variety of shifts, particularly as a new hair designer. Many salons are open during the evenings and on weekends, so you may need to fit in where you are needed on your employer's schedule. Being willing to meet your clients' needs, even at irregular hours, can help you become a regular part of their beauty routine.

Contact the Iowa State Board of Cosmetology

Hair design has gradually become a way of life for the intrepid in Iowa. The beauty industry there seeks to expand its horizons into the next decade. And to that end, participants take guidance from these listed groups.