A technical advisor in the hair and beauty industry is an expert who provides specialised knowledge, training, and support for salons, beauty brands, and professional stylists. They bridge the gap between product innovation and practical application, offering education on techniques, product usage, and industry trends. Working for cosmetic and haircare brands, manufacturers, or professional training academies, technical advisors help businesses and professionals optimise their skills, services, and product performance.
Details
What Does a Technical Advisor – Hair and Beauty Do?
Technical advisors offer expertise in product knowledge, professional techniques, and salon business support. They provide hands-on training, troubleshoot technical issues, and help businesses integrate new products and services to enhance client experiences and revenue.
Key Responsibilities:
- Conduct training workshops and demonstrations for salons, spas, and beauty professionals.
- Educate hairdressers and beauty therapists on product formulation, usage, and application techniques.
- Provide technical support and troubleshooting for salons using new tools or treatments.
- Stay updated on industry trends, new products, and innovative treatments.
- Assist in product development and testing, providing feedback to manufacturers.
- Work closely with brand representatives, educators, and salon owners to ensure compliance with best practises.
- Support sales teams by explaining technical benefits and features of hair and beauty products.
- Develop educational materials, manuals, and video tutorials for product training.
- Represent brands at trade shows, expos, and industry events.
Work Environments:
Technical advisors work in a variety of settings within the hair and beauty industry, including:
Professional Hair & Beauty Brands:
Providing in-house training and brand support.
Salons & Spas:
Offering technical expertise on new treatments and products.
Cosmetic & Haircare Manufacturers:
Assisting with product formulation and technical support.
Beauty & Hairdressing Academies:
Training students and professionals in advanced techniques.
Trade Shows & Industry Events:
Representing brands and educating professionals.
Freelance & Consulting Roles:
Providing independent technical training and salon coaching.
Skills & Qualifications
Skills required:
In-Depth Industry Knowledge:
Strong expertise in hairdressing, barbering, skincare, and cosmetic treatments.
Technical Product Knowledge:
Understanding of chemical processes in hair colour, skincare formulations, and cosmetic treatments.
Excellent Communication & Presentation Skills:
Ability to train, educate, and engage professionals effectively.
Hands-On Experience in Salon or Spa Environments:
Practical knowledge of hair, skin, and beauty services.
Problem-Solving & Troubleshooting Abilities:
Ability to identify and resolve product or technical issues.
Business & Marketing Awareness:
Understanding salon management, retail strategies, and client experience enhancement.
Qualifications required:
Technical advisors usually have a combination of industry experience and formal qualifications, including:
Certificate III or IV in Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, or Makeup
(For foundational technical skills).
Diploma of Beauty Therapy
(For expertise in skincare and advanced beauty treatments).
Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE40122)
(For educators and trainers working in an RTO).
Advanced Certifications in Product Chemistry, Dermal Science, or Hair Color Mastery
(For specialised knowledge).
Business or Sales Training
(For those involved in product development, brand management, or consulting).
Career Growth & Opportunities
Technical advisors can progress into roles such as:
National or Global Educator for a Major Brand:
Traveling to train professionals worldwide.
Product Development Specialist:
Assisting in the creation of new hair, skin, or cosmetic products.
Salon or Spa Business Consultant:
Helping businesses improve services and profitability.
Technical Training Manager:
Leading education programmes for major beauty brands or academies.