The best definition we’ve got for “Old School Stylist” is: Someone who knows how to use a Marcel iron and stove! Yes, there’s more to it than that, but that’s the essence of what we look for in stylists featured on this site: Consummate Trained and Licensed Professionals. It’s one of the reasons we require a cosmetology license number on our Old School Stylists Directory Submission Form to.

We’ve seen too many horror stories of “Instagram Stylists” and poor customer experiences taking place from people who are poorly trained and unlicensed.  This site was constructed to be a resource for stylists looking to connect with their customers, and customers looking to find Old School Stylists in their area.

The key differences between a licensed hair stylist (like our Old School Stylists featured on this website) and someone doing hair in their kitchen or basement are:

1. Professional Training:  A licensed hairstylist has likely completed extensive professional training that covers: hair design techniques, scientific concepts like infectious disease control, physiology and chemistry related to hair care, and professional service procedures.
2. Legal Compliance:  A licensed stylist has legal requirements to meet, including being of a certain age, having obtained a high school diploma or GED, passing written and practical state licensing exams, and obtaining a license from their state’s regulatory board.
3. Safety Standards:  Old School Stylists, like all licensed haircare professionals, are regulated by state boards that establish health and safety standards.  This ensures that proper sanitation practices are being followed, and that health risks to clients are minimized.

We’re open to updating and revising our definition.

Give us your feedback below as a Comment, or Contact Us.