Who regulates hairdressers?

The hairdressing industry is currently unregulated. There are no general licensing requirements and there is no statutory requirement for hairdressers (including barbers) to hold specified qualifications. The registration of hairdressers is voluntary.

Since hairdressers provide a service, they are subject to the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

Local authority byelaws may impose certain requirements on hairdressing establishments. Normal business regulations would also apply, including health and safety requirements.

Voluntary registration

The Hairdressers (Registration) Act 1964 provides for a voluntary register for qualified hairdressers in the UK. The register is maintained by the Hair Council, which was set up by the Act in 1964. The Hair Council does not receive Government funding; it is funded solely by registration fees. Importantly, the Hair Council has no legal power to act on behalf of consumers.

Any hairdresser or barber may elect to register with the Hair Council provided he or she has evidence of training to an approved standard. It is estimated that only 10 per cent of hairdressers are registered.

Information about training and qualifications is available on the Hair Council website. Information is also set out on the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority website.

Consumer protection legislation

Since hairdressers and barbers provide a service, they are within scope of consumer protection legislation. Specifically, they are subject to the sale of services provisions of the Consumer Rights Act 2015 (CRA 2015).

A library briefing, Consumer Rights Act 2015 (PDF) (pages 16 to 17), provides detailed information about the statutory rights implied into a consumer service contract. It also sets out a consumer’s rights to redress in the event of a dispute.

How to complain

In the first instance, the consumer should complain to the hair salon. If the complaint cannot be resolved, it may be possible to use the services of an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) provider. ADR involves the use of a mediation service to help reach a compromise and avoid legal action. However, neither party is legally obliged to engage with ADR services.

Ultimately, if a dispute cannot be resolved, the only option would be for the consumer to begin legal proceedings.

Further help

Citizens Advice may provide some legal advice free of charge. The website has a useful search tool to help people find their nearest office. There is also a free consumer helpline: 0808 223 1133.

A Library briefing, Legal help: where to go and how to pay (PDF), may also be of help to constituents.

Initiatives for change

There have been various attempts in Parliament to introduce legislation to regulate hairdressers, but without success. Information about these initiatives is set out in a Library briefing, Regulation of hairdressers.