Cosmetology

Cosmetologist Career Overview

A cosmetologist is a beauty and cosmetics specialist. Cosmetologists (also referred to as beauticians, aestheticians, or estheticians) provide hair care, make-up, and skin care services to enhance the appearance of their clients. Most new cosmetologists entering the workforce do so by specializing in providing a single service. Career specializations include hair care, skin care, waxing, make-up application, hair removal, nails, and other areas. Although laws vary state by state, cosmetologists must be licensed by a school of cosmetology or have completed a cosmetology apprenticeship.

Cosmetologist Training & Education

Educational requirements for cosmetology students include completion of a certification program which can be finished in well under a year. Upon completion of the program, you will need to meet the requirements for licensing in your state. In order to work as a cosmetologist, you must be licensed by the state in which you intend to work. To earn a license, you must have graduated from a state-licensed barber or cosmetology school and be at least 16 years old (although some states require only an eighth grade education). Educational requirements vary, so be sure to find out the exact requirements from your local cosmetology school and/or your state board of cosmetology.

All states require cosmetologists to be licensed. Usually, along with having a high school diploma, an individual must meet an age requirement and pass a medical exam. You also will be required to practice at a licensed cosmetology school and complete a designated number of hours of instruction. Additionally, you must pass both the written and practical tests administered by a state board of examiners to receive a license in cosmetology.

Cosmetologist Career & Salary Outlook

There are two standard paths for advancement in the field of cosmetology. The first and most common path is to work your way up the pecking order in your salon or to get a job at a higher-end establishment where you’ll be able to charge higher rates for your services. The other option is to open your own salon. While your potential for income is substantially higher going this route, so too is the risk and responsibility. You’ll have to rent your own space and deal with the legal and tax obligations that come with owning your own business. You’ll also need to hire stylists to work in your shop, monitor their duties, and address any customer complaints that may arise. However, the satisfaction of owning your own business is more than enough of an incentive to balance out any of these concerns. The average salary of cosmologists is $19,800.

Cosmetology Career Fields and Specializations

Hair stylist/barber

A licensed cosmetologist must be able to prescribe the appropriate hair style and treatment for each individual client. Typical services provided by hair stylists/designers/barbers include shampoo, hair treatment (conditioning/color/perm), haircut, hairstyle, and finish. Successful cosmetologists must also be able to communicate well in order to build trusting relationships with each client.

Esthetician

Estheticians perform facials, hydrotherapy, body treatments, and hair removal services. Primary skills required include the ability to recognize skin abnormalities and recommend effective treatments. Estheticians comprise one of the beauty industry’s fastest growing segments.

Nail technician

Nail technicians are hand treatment specialists that provide manicures, pedicures, and cuticle enhancements. Effective nail technicians must be familiar with a wide variety of products and tools including nail enamel, polish remover, aromatherapy, files, buffers, and cuticle pushers.

Makeup artist

These beauticians perform artistic services such as salon/spa client makeup applications for photo shoots and platform presentations.

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