How to Excel as an On-Set Entertainment Hairstylist: 5 Essential Tips for Success

If you’re aiming to make your mark as a hairstylist in TV and film, it’s not just about getting the job—it’s about thriving on set. The pace is fast, the expectations are high, and you need to bring your A-game every single day. Here are five key lessons I’ve learned from years in the industry that will help you not just survive, but excel, as an on-set entertainment hairstylist.

1. Master On-Set Hairstyling: Speed and Precision Are Non-Negotiable

When you’re on set, the clock is always ticking. Whether you’re prepping a contestant for a live show or re-creating a look from a previous shoot, you need to work fast without compromising quality. This means honing your skills to the point where you can execute them perfectly, even under pressure.

Key takeaway: Speed and precision are essential. Make sure your skills are sharp enough to deliver flawless hairstyles quickly, every time.

2. Continuity Matters: Consistency Is Key in TV and Film

One of the biggest challenges on set is ensuring continuity—making sure a character’s hairstyle remains consistent across multiple takes, scenes, and shooting days. This demands a meticulous eye for detail. Take detailed notes and photos of your work so you can replicate the look exactly when needed.

Key takeaway: Continuity is critical. Develop a reliable system for documenting and replicating hairstyles to maintain consistency throughout production.

3. Effective Collaboration: Communication with the On-Set Team is Crucial

On set, you’re part of a bigger team, including makeup artists, costume designers, directors, and actors. Your ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with these professionals is what helps bring a character to life. Be open to feedback and ready to adapt your work to align with the director’s vision or the actor’s comfort.

Key takeaway: Collaboration is crucial. Build strong working relationships and stay flexible to ensure your hairstyles support the overall vision of the production.

4. Be Ready for Anything: Adaptability is Your Best Asset on Set

In the world of TV and film, the unexpected is always around the corner—whether it’s a sudden change in the script, weather issues on an outdoor shoot, or an actor needing a quick fix before the next take. The key is staying calm and being prepared to adapt. Always have your essentials on hand and be ready to think on your feet.

Key takeaway: Adaptability is essential. Success on set often comes down to how well you can handle the unexpected with confidence and creativity.

5. Keep Learning: Continuous Education is Key to On-Set Success

The entertainment industry is always evolving, with new styles, techniques, and technologies emerging constantly. To stay on top, you need to keep learning. Invest in workshops, advanced courses, and stay connected with other industry professionals to keep your skills sharp and relevant.

Key takeaway: Never stop learning. Ongoing education is vital to staying ahead in the fast-paced world of entertainment hairstyling.

Excelling as an on-set hairstylist in the entertainment industry requires more than just talent—it takes speed, precision, strong collaboration, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. By mastering these skills, you’ll set yourself apart and become an indispensable part of any production team.

Ready to sharpen your on-set skills? Explore my online classes and live workshops, like Set Hair 101 and Breaking Into the Hollywood Beauty Biz. These courses are designed to give you the tools, techniques, and insider knowledge you need to excel in the entertainment industry.

Are you ready to stand out on set? Explore my courses and workshops today!

Let’s work together to take your hairstyling career to new heights!