Hairdressing professionals leaving industry post-graduation in Finland

Many professionals in the hairdressing industry are leaving shortly after graduation or even while still studying. For example, Iida Arola from Seinäjoki left the field just a couple of years after finishing her studies due to frustration. She expressed that the profession is undervalued, noting that some clients dismissed her skills. “Some treated me as if anyone could do my job,” Arola said.

Likewise, Maaria Rinta-aho from Jyväskylä also departed the industry after a few years of working as an entrepreneur, alongside many hairdressing professionals. “In addition to actual work, I had to manage Instagram and Facebook,” she explained. Eveliina Lönnqvist, who graduated as a barber and hairdresser, reported that she never worked in the field as she felt there wasn’t enough practical customer work during her training.

Reports from vocational schools indicate a troubling trend where over half of graduates do not remain in the hair industry. For instance, at Jyväskylä’s Gradia, very few graduates stay in the field. Some institutions have seen less than half of their annual students securing jobs in hairstyling.

The skills shortage is also echoed in regions like Tampere, where the demand for professionals has increased. As of September 29, 2023, there were approximately 290 barber and hairdresser job openings across Finland, yet many salons, such as Studio AK in Jyväskylä, report having a 20-30% staffing shortage and are unable to meet customer demands during busy periods.

The situation is prompting calls for reform, including suggestions to screen students’ motivation to ensure they remain in the industry. Additionally, significant changes to vocational qualifications are set for 2025, which may help address the crisis.