Hairdressers tend to work in hairdressing salons with other hairdressers, in beauty salons or in retail beauty stores with salons attached. Their work environment is frequently very busy and quite noisy. Some hairdressers choose to work solo, either from their own home, or visiting people at their homes. Hairdressers can also be employed to work on location, and film or television sets.

Hairdressers should be prepared to work on weekends and evenings. They spend a lot of time dealing with clients and the public. Since it is important for hairdressers to be up to date with new trends and styles, they may also attend extra training and seminars.

Hairdressers use a wide array of tools and materials to style hair. They use scissors and razors to cut hair, and brushes, combs, clips, hairdryers, straightening irons, hair rollers and curling tongs to shape and style hair. Often, hairspray, wax, moose and gel is used to help the hair keep its shape. Hairdressers care for hair with shampoos, conditioners and treatments. They use chemicals and dyes to temporarily or permanently colour, straighten or curl hair, which they mix and apply with brushes and other tools. Since they work with a lot of chemicals, they are often required to wear gloves and aprons. If hairdressers work freelance, they may require a car to visit clients. They also have to carry various cutting and styling tools.