Did you know 65% of hair professionals have experienced burnout?
(Source: L’Oréal Professionnel, 2023). That’s nearly two out of every three stylists. And if you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’ve felt the effects of mental exhaustion—or seen it in someone you care about behind the chair.
Hair stylists give so much of themselves. Every appointment is a blend of artistry, emotional labor, and customer service. We hold space for others. We uplift. But we rarely pause to fill our own cup.
That’s why mental health needs to be a core part of every salon’s strategy—not just for individuals, but as a business priority. When you support your mental health, you perform better, create stronger relationships, and stay in the industry longer.
So how can you protect yourself from the mental drain of the job?
Enter the Four Pillars of Mental Health for Stylists:
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Physical – It’s not just about standing all day. From chronic back pain to exhaustion, stylists need better ergonomic setups, proper hydration, and real breaks during the day.
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Social – We give so much energy to our clients, but we also need supportive, honest relationships with peers. That means cultivating salon cultures where vulnerability is safe and support is encouraged.
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Cognitive – Stylists are creative thinkers, but we’re often overstimulated. Reclaiming time for focus, learning, and even silence can be game-changing. Prioritize boundaries with social media and digital overload.
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Emotional – This is the heart of it. Every stylist knows how emotionally taxing it can be to absorb others’ energy. Developing emotional regulation, setting healthy limits, and practicing self-compassion is essential to staying whole.
If this resonates, you're not alone. You deserve to thrive—not just survive—behind the chair.
Want to dive deeper? Visit the L’Oréal Head Up program for resources tailored to salon professionals:
👉 us.lorealprofessionnel.com/pro-resources/head-up
