Home » Uncategorized » What Is a Level 3 Stylist? What It Means, Career Path, and Skill Levels Explained
What is a level 3 stylist, and how does it affect your salon experience? When you visit a salon, you may have questions about Levels 1, 2, 3, or Master Stylists. The beauty salon industry often uses this tiered system as shorthand for a stylist’s experience, skill set, training, and ability to provide more complex services. But what does this mean for you as a client, and for someone looking to start a hairstyling career?
You might be wondering:
This post will help you understand the stylist system, the meaning of each level, and how careers work in real UK salons.
Quick Overview
A Level 3 stylist is an advanced hairdresser with 3–5 years’ experience, skilled in complex cuts, colouring, and styling. They work independently, handle corrective services, and mentor junior stylists. Clients often choose them for high-quality work at a reasonable price.
✅ What is a Level 3 Stylist? Advanced stylist confident in technical and creative services.
✅ Is a Level 3 Stylist Good? Yes – delivers excellent results and handles advanced requests.
✅ Level 2 vs Level 3 Level 2: intermediate skills, some guidance needed. Level 3: fully skilled and independent.
✅ Next Levels Level 4: Senior Stylist. Level 5–6: Master Stylist / Creative Director – elite and highly experienced.
This guide is for you, whether you’re a client looking for the right stylist or a hairstylist in the making.
Before looking at Level 3, you first need to understand what “stylist levels” are.
Most salons in the UK and beyond implement a tiered system in order to:
The levels assigned to stylists are not based on formal education, but rather on:
It follows that the more advanced the level, the more the stylist is expected to possess and execute complex skills within a service.
So, what is a Level 3 stylist? What is a Level 3 hairdresser, and what does a Level 3 stylist mean for clients and professionals alike? Let’s focus on Level 3 and explore what sets these stylists apart.
A Level 3 Stylist is an advanced hairdresser who has moved past the basic and intermediate levels of hairdressing. They have multiple years of experience working in a salon, coupled with excellent technical knowledge, and the ability to perform complex services unsupervised.
So, what is a Level 3 stylist? What is a Level 3 hairdresser, and what does a Level 3 stylist mean in terms of skills and responsibilities?
Level 3 Stylist expectations in most salons include:
Foundation skills are mastered, and, as per most grading systems, the thresholds for a “Senior Stylist” are reached.
Yes, a Level 3 hairdresser and a Level 3 stylist are interchangeable terms. Some salons use “stylist,” while others say “hairdresser,” but both refer to an advanced professional who has reached a higher level of technical ability and confidence.
So, what is a Level 3 stylist, and what does it mean to be a Level 3 stylist?
However, a Level 3 hairdresser can sometimes refer to someone who has completed the NVQ Level 3 in Hairdressing, which is a formal qualification recognised across the UK.
This qualification includes:
This is why, in some salons:
In practice, however, these terms overlap, and most Level 3 stylists do hold the NVQ Level 3.
Level 3 stylists can manage almost any salon service, including advanced ones. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what does it mean to be a Level 3 stylist, and what is the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 stylist? Here’s a breakdown:
They can perform:
Level 3 stylists are frequently entrusted to perform:
They can confidently cut and style any hair texture, including curly, straight, coarse, and fine hair.
They assess and advise on:
They provide practical guidance, saying, for example, “I can do this!” rather than a vague, “Yes, sure!”
Level 3 stylists handle:
While not fully at the instructor level, Level 3 stylists often mentor Level 1-2 stylists in the salon.
Yes, Level 3 is considered very good. So, what is a Level 3 stylist and what is the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 stylist?
A Level 3 Stylist:
Even though they are not yet at a “Master” or “Senior” level, they are definitely more advanced than the beginner and intermediate stages.
Clients are often more than satisfied when they choose a Level 3 Stylist because they pay less than they would for a Level 4 or Master Stylist, yet still take home excellent results.
One of the most crucial leaps in a hairdresser’s career is transitioning from Level 2 to Level 3. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what does stylist 2 mean, and what does “intermediate stylist” mean? This step signifies a major jump from intermediate to advanced, and most salons use these levels to guide service confidence, pricing, and technical ability.
Let’s simplify the distinction:
Now, let’s get into the specifics.
Level 3 stylists have considerably more practical experience and greater exposure to the industry.
Level 2 stylists are competent, but Level 3 stylists offer a much higher level of accuracy and consistency.
Colour correction is a critical skill typically gained at Level 3.
Level 3 stylists have a stronger understanding of hair movement, weight distribution, and facial shape relevance.
Consultations at Level 3 are vital for delivering advanced services, as they allow the stylist to adjust techniques to meet client needs.
Level 3 stylists charge more because of their higher skill level. Clients seeking advanced work often choose Level 3, as they deliver top-notch results at prices lower than senior or master stylists.
An intermediate stylist is a Level 2 stylist. They have gone beyond being a beginner but are still acquiring mastery. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what does stylist 2 mean, and what does “intermediate stylist” mean?
An intermediate stylist typically:
They are dependable for routine services but have yet to handle advanced corrective work.
“Intermediate stylist” is simple terminology defining a Level 2 stylist. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what does stylist 2 mean, and what does “intermediate stylist” mean?
It means:
This stage in a stylist’s career is vital because it is where they build the foundation for Level 3.
If you are a Level 3 stylist, it means:
This is the point in a stylist’s career where they begin to build a significant reputation, both in the salon and with clients.
Level 3 stylists usually have a busy schedule and provide high-value services, which boost their income. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what does it mean to be a Level 4 stylist, and what is an advanced stylist?
A Level 4 Stylist is a Senior Stylist or Advanced Stylist and is considered a highly advanced professional. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what does it mean to be a Level 4 stylist, and what is an advanced stylist?
Level 4 stylists usually:
They frequently:
Level 4 stylists charge higher rates, and clients typically book them for major transformations or precision work that requires a high level of skill.
“Advanced Stylist” usually refers to:
However, in some salons, “Advanced Stylist” may be equivalent to Level 5, depending on the number of levels the salon has. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what is an advanced stylist, and what is the highest level of stylist?
An advanced stylist:
This level requires not only technical skill but also creativity, leadership, and strong client management.
Although it depends on the salon, some of the most common top-tier titles include:
These professionals have 10–20+ years of experience, and in addition to the more basic stylist roles, they:
Their work is of premium quality, and their prices reflect that exceptional expertise. So, what is a Level 3 stylist, what is an advanced stylist, and what is the highest level of stylist?
The stylist level system helps salons organise training, pricing, and client expectations. It also provides hairdressers with a clear career progression map. For UK salons, the typical journey begins like this:
This is the starting point for most hairdressers. At this level, a stylist is usually:
They might perform simple services like blow-dries, basic trims, and root touch-ups under supervision.
Completes an NVQ Level 2
Can independently perform basic cuts and colours
Delivers everyday salon services
Still developing speed, confidence, and precision
Their foundation is solid, though they may still require mentorship on advanced techniques
This stage answers what does stylist 2 mean and what does “intermediate stylist” mean.
This is where the coordination of skill, confidence, and creativity occurs.
A Level 3 stylist typically:
So, what is a Level 3 stylist and what is an advanced stylist? This is the stage where a stylist moves from intermediate to advanced, fully capable of managing complex services autonomously.
The stylist is now considered an expert.
A Level 4 stylist:
This is one of the highest levels in the industry.
A Level 5 Master Stylist usually has 10–20+ years of experience and:
Not available in all salons, this is considered top tier. A Creative Director:
For their years of experience and the importance of their services, prices reflect this exceptional expertise. This answers what is the highest level of stylist.
Raising levels isn’t automatic and involves several factors: skill, training, and execution. Promotions are usually based on the following points:
To move up the levels, a stylist must demonstrate:
This is especially important when considering what is a Level 3 stylist, what is an advanced stylist, and eventually what is the highest level of stylist.
A stylist moves up when they:
Promotions usually require:
Client loyalty and repeat business are major factors in promotions. High demand can accelerate a stylist’s rise through the levels.
Higher-level stylists also:
At the upper levels, a salon looks for more than just technical skill; leadership, client management, and creativity all play a crucial role in advancement.
There are general and realistic distributions of probable earnings, which can vary depending on region and salon.
£16,000–£19,000 per year
At this level, a stylist is focused on training and building foundational skills, so the income is on the lower side.
£19,000–£23,000 per year
This is in addition to tips and occasional commission, which can increase overall earnings.
£23,000–£30,000 per year
At this stage, most stylists start to earn meaningful commissions, particularly through high-value colour services, balayage, corrections, and restyles. Depending on the salon and location, some Level 3 stylists earn significantly more. This raises the common question: what is a Level 3 stylist, is a Level 3 stylist good, and how this level compares to higher tiers.
£28,000–£40,000 per year
Cities like London, Manchester, and Birmingham often pay at the higher end of this scale.
£40,000–£60,000+ per year
High-end salons or independent stylists with strong client bases may earn even more.
£50,000–£80,000+
These positions also include potential earnings from:
As skill, reputation, and personal branding increase, so does earning potential. This progression highlights what is the highest level of stylist and how it impacts salary and career influence.
For most clients, yes — a Level 3 stylist is the ideal balance of strong experience, advanced skill, and reasonable pricing.
High confidence and good decision-making also contribute, and here’s why clients often choose a Level 3 stylist:
✔ They can perform advanced services.
Most common transformations, balayage, corrections, and restyles fall comfortably within their skill set.
✔ They are more affordable than senior or master stylists.
Clients receive high-quality service and advanced skills without the premium price tag.
✔ They have enough experience to solve problems.
Level 3 stylists have worked with many different hair types and challenges.
✔ They are excellent communicators.
Their consultation skills are well developed, making them perfect for clients seeking guidance and advice.
Nevertheless, clients with particularly intricate requests — such as significant corrections, celebrity-style transformations, micro-cutting, or high-fashion work — may gravitate toward Levels 4–5.
This raises the questions: what is a Level 3 stylist, is a Level 3 stylist good, and what is the highest level of stylist available for more advanced and specialised work.
Yes, of course. A Level 3 stylist is recognised as the perfect fit for both routine services and advanced transformations. They possess the right combination of experience, technical skills, creativity, and professional assurance.
They Are a Level 3 Stylist
A Level 3 stylist knows how to do the following:
They are able to produce work of high quality without guidance.
They can confidently manage high-pressure situations involving clients and are able to:
Level 3 stylists deliver advanced services at an affordable rate, which explains their high demand.
They can handle a full colour refresh, restyle, or advanced transformations.
This raises the key questions: what is a Level 3 stylist, is a Level 3 stylist good, and what is the highest level of stylist for clients seeking the most advanced expertise.
If you want to become a hairdresser, reaching Level 3 is a major milestone. Here’s how to achieve it:
You need to start with:
These qualifications teach you:
A Level 3 stylist usually has 2–4 years of hands-on experience. Working in a busy salon exposes you to:
This practical experience is essential for refining your skills.
To stand out as a Level 3 stylist, consider taking advanced courses such as:
These courses boost technical proficiency and build confidence.
A Level 3 stylist often:
A loyal client base shows the salon that you are ready for advancement.
Listening, advising, setting expectations, and offering solutions is just as important as technical skill.
Salons promote employees who:
Professional behaviour influences your progression just as much as skill.
Becoming a Level 3 stylist answers the question “what is a Level 3 stylist”: a professional with advanced skills, independence, and client trust. It also shows clients “is a Level 3 stylist good” and positions you on the path toward “what is the highest level of stylist” for those aiming to reach senior, master, or creative director roles.
Yes, a Level 3 stylist performs at a higher standard. But that doesn’t mean a Level 2 stylist is “bad.”
Level 2 is simply the stage where a stylist is still developing their abilities.
Level 3 stylists are:
If you are a client who is unsure about which stylist to choose, a Level 3 stylist is the best pick, especially for services that go beyond the basics. This helps answer “what is a Level 3 stylist” and shows clearly “is a Level 3 stylist good” for professional hair services.
Here is the full stylist level ladder in most UK salons:
Level 1 – Junior Stylist
Learning, assisting, and practising.
Level 2 – Intermediate Stylist
Independent with basic services; still developing.
Level 3 – Advanced Stylist
Fully competent and skilled. This answers “what is a Level 3 stylist” and shows why a Level 3 stylist is good for professional services.
Level 4 – Senior Stylist
Advanced and corrective work.
Level 5 – Master Stylist / Style Director
Elite level, 10+ years’ experience, creative direction, and advanced colour science.
Level 6 – Creative Director (Top Tier)
Not in all salons; the highest creative authority.
So, Level 3 is comfortably in the high intermediate range, offering advanced skills and independent work, but it is not quite at the master or creative director level.
If you want to accelerate your path to Level 3 and beyond, here are some powerful tips for stylists:
✔ Always Keep Learning
New hair trends and techniques emerge all the time. Continuously take workshops, courses, and masterclasses to advance your skills. This is essential for anyone wondering what is a Level 3 stylist and how to become one.
✔ Work on Every Hair Type
You become more valuable when your experience includes straight, curly, coily, fine, thick, and everything in between. Level 3 stylists are expected to handle diverse hair types confidently, which is why a Level 3 stylist is good for advanced services.
✔ Establish Your Brand
Having a strong Instagram portfolio, a collection of before-and-after photos, and client reviews—even as an employee—will support your professional growth and help build trust.
✔ Master the Art of Consultation
Trust starts here. Learn to manage expectations, advise clients effectively, and offer realistic options. Strong consultation skills are a hallmark of a Level 3 stylist.
✔ Get Faster but Do Not Rush
Efficiency is key to high-quality work and is highly valued in a busy salon. A Level 3 stylist balances speed with precision.
✔ Develop Your Knowledge of the Science of Colour
Understanding tones, underlying pigments, developer strengths, lifting and depositing, corrective techniques, and other aspects of colouring is crucial for progression. This knowledge sets the foundation for advancing to Levels 4 and 5.
Level 3 is a skilled, experienced professional who executes complex cuts, advanced colouring, and creative styling—all done confidently. They are trusted by both salons and clients, and often form the backbone of the salon team.
For clients selecting a stylist or hairdressers developing their careers, knowing what is a Level 3 stylist and the stylist level system helps you make informed decisions. At Level 3, technical skill and creativity come together perfectly, making it the ideal stage for many. It offers the best blend of skill, quality, and the all-important cost, which is why a Level 3 stylist is good for most advanced services.
Career hairdressing offers a never-ending roadmap of opportunities, from senior positions to creative leadership and specialist colour roles. The key contributors to success in these areas are constant learning, ongoing practice, and a genuine passion for the work.