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COSMETOLOGIST JOB DESCRIPTION Where can I locate, compare, and contact cosmetology schools?
What is a cosmetologist?
In the beauty industry, a cosmetologist is more than just a hair
stylist - they are someone on the cutting edge of trends and styles in
hair and beauty techniques, and they can transform their clients from
average to spectacular in one sitting. According to the Princeton
Review, "cosmetologists are the fairy godmothers of style and change."
As a cosmetologist, you must be able to cut and style all types of
hair, as well as straighten, permanent wave, and color it. They should
also be knowledgeable in the field of esthetics, the division of
cosmetology which focuses exclusively on skin care management. Included
in this field are facials, makeup application, manicures, pedicures,
electrolysis, waxing and massage treatments.
Most importantly, a cosmetologist must understand client personalities
in order to provide the best services possible. A successful
cosmetologist is outgoing and personable, can work well with their
hands, does not mind standing for long hours, and is able to work
nights and weekends in order to build up clientele.
What can a cosmetologist earn?
The rewards for this work can be great; a 2003 study by the NACCAS (the
National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences),
found that cosmetology graduates can expect to earn anywhere from
$30,000-$50,000 a year, depending on the amount of experience, salon,
clientele and hours worked.
How do you become a cosmetologist?
The first step in becoming a cosmetologist is finding a cosmetology or
beauty school that fits your needs. At cosmetology schools, students
learn the skills needed to pass the state licensing exam (required in
all 50 US states). Courses for a cosmetologist degree can include hair
cutting, styling, coloring, and permanent waving, as well as facials,
makeup application, massage, electrolysis, and nail technology.
Cosmetology schools may also offer courses in salon management in
business courses, chemistry, anatomy, biology and physiology.
What are the requirements?
Most beauty and cosmetology schools require a high school diploma or
its equivalent, but check with the state in which you plan to enroll to
be sure. Most courses are offered on a full- or part-time basis, and an
average of 1500 hours is usually needed to complete a basic cosmetology
course, but this depends on where you attend school.
Take a look at our state license requirements page to find out more. We recommend you contact the licensing
department for the state you're interested in to verify if there have
been any changes in programs or required hours.
How much do cosmetology programs cost?
Tuitions can range from $5,000 to $17,000, depending on the types of
courses, hours of instruction needed, location of the school, as well
as their facilities and equipment. This is simply a general range for
tuition, in some cases it may cost less, in other cases it may be more.
What are some of the career options for a cosmetologist?
A career in cosmetology can lead to a variety of professions, including
hair stylist, barber, manicurist, pedicurist, electrologist, or nail
technician, to name a few. Many cosmetologists also choose careers in
the beauty industry as a beauty magazine editor or consultant, while
others become sales or marketing specialists in the cosmetics industry.
 
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