Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (4%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 1 (4%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 21 (91%)

• Update and maintain customer information records, such as beauty services provided.AI can speed this up on its own · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Schedule client appointments.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Keep work stations clean and sanitize tools, such as scissors and combs.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Bleach, dye, or tint hair, using applicator or brush.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Cut, trim and shape hair or hairpieces, based on customers' instructions, hair type, and facial features, using clippers, scissors, trimmers and razors.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Demonstrate and sell hair care products and cosmetics.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Analyze patrons' hair and other physical features to determine and recommend beauty treatment or suggest hair styles.Little or no AI speed-up · core task · Seen in real AI use
• Shampoo, rinse, condition, and dry hair and scalp or hairpieces with water, liquid soap, or other solutions.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate cash registers to receive payments from patrons.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Order, display, and maintain supplies.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Comb, brush, and spray hair or wigs to set style.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Develop new styles and techniques.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Apply water or setting, straightening or waving solutions to hair, and use curlers, rollers, hot combs and curling irons to press and curl hair.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Shape eyebrows and remove facial hair, using depilatory cream, tweezers, electrolysis or wax.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Shave, trim, and shape beards and moustaches.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Train or supervise other hairstylists, hairdressers, and assistants.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Massage and treat scalp for hygienic and remedial purposes, using hands, fingers, or vibrating equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Administer therapeutic medication and advise patron to seek medical treatment for chronic or contagious scalp conditions.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Recommend and explain the use of cosmetics, lotions, and creams to soften and lubricate skin and enhance and restore natural appearance.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task · Seen in real AI use
• Clean, shape, and polish fingernails and toenails, using files and nail polish.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Apply artificial fingernails.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Give facials to patrons, using special compounds, such as lotions and creams.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Attach wigs or hairpieces to model heads and dress wigs and hairpieces according to instructions, samples, sketches or photographs.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists and AI