What is a Purple Heart?
The Purple Hearts badge is your assurance of safety, skill, and professionalism. Learn what it means when your hair professional displays this symbol of excellence.
When you see the Purple Hearts badge, you know your hair professional has proven their commitment to safety, ongoing education, and the highest standards of care.
Verified excellence in hair care
The Purple Hearts badge isn't something you can buy - it's earned through dedication, education, and ongoing professional development. Each Purple Heart represents a professional who has: • Completed verified, accredited training • Passed rigorous assessments • Committed to ongoing education (CPD) • Joined a community of accountability
- Verified qualifications
- Ongoing professional development
- Commitment to safety protocols
- Part of a professional network
Why the Purple Heart Matters to You
Safety First
Ongoing Education
Verified Skills
Accountable
Insured
Passionate
Why this badge is so important
Unlike many countries, the UK doesn't require hairdressers to be licensed or registered. Anyone can open a salon and work on clients without any formal training or insurance. This means thousands of people receive hair treatments from unqualified individuals every year - sometimes with serious consequences including chemical burns, allergic reactions, and permanent hair damage. The Purple Hearts badge cuts through this uncertainty, giving you a clear way to identify professionals who have proven their skills and commitment to safety.
The Purple Heart Levels
Purple Hearts come in different levels, each representing a higher degree of expertise and commitment.
Purple Heart One
Foundation level. Completed core training, passed assessment, and demonstrated commitment to professional standards. Minimum 20 CPD hours annually.
Purple Heart Two
Advanced level with specialisms in areas like colour, styling, or bridal. Maintains 30-40 CPD hours annually with demonstrated excellence.
Purple Heart Three
Master level for experienced professionals. Intensive assessment, 50+ CPD hours annually, and exceptional skill across multiple areas.
Educator Level
For those who train the next generation. Holds teaching qualifications and delivers accredited education programmes.
How to check if a badge is genuine
Every Purple Heart badge is linked to a verifiable profile. If a professional displays the badge, you should be able to find them in our directory. If you can't, the badge may not be genuine. Don't be afraid to ask your stylist about their Purple Hearts membership. Genuine members are proud to share their credentials and happy to answer questions about their training and qualifications.
- Search for them in our directory
- Ask to see their membership profile
- Check the badge isn't just a generic image
- Contact us if you have concerns
“The Purple Heart assures clients they are in safe, expert hands. It represents everything we stand for: safety, education, and a commitment to excellence.”
— Rae Elizabeth Palmer SR CCH, Founder
Ready to Find a Purple Heart Pro?
Search our directory to find verified, qualified professionals in your area who display the Purple Hearts badge with pride.