South Carolinas exciting cosmetology industry has room for all sorts of styles and trends, making it a great place for new cosmetologists to get started.
Whether you want to work in a major city or a waterfront tourist area, the state of South Carolina has what youre looking for.
Licensing is the final step to working independently in beauty. The South Carolina Board of Cosmetology requires applicants to complete at least 1500 hours of training. You must also pay for your licensing exams. The fee is $175 if you sign up for theory and practical exams at the same time.
Finding the right beauty school for your learning needs is a big part of getting a jumpstart in your new career. South Carolina has dedicated beauty schools, as well as programs at technical schools and community colleges. No matter where you decide to learn the art of cosmetology, you have to meet certain educational requirements. The courses listed below are required for South Carolina schools.
What You Can Learn at Cosmetology Schools in South Carolina
- Science of cosmetology, including sanitation, disinfection, anatomy, nail structure, and chemistry
- Shampoos and rinses
- Scalp and haircare treatments
- Hair shaping
- Hair styling, including thermal pressing, thermal curling, wiggery, roller placement, molding, and pin curling
- Nail technology
- Chemical waving
- Chemical relaxing
- Chemical straightening
- Hair tinting and lightening
- Skin care
- Makeup application
- Hair removal
- South Carolina rules and regulations
Cosmetology license renewal in South Carolina happens every 2 years by March 10. Operators are required to get 12 hours of cosmetology continuing education during every 2-year licensure period; the requirement is the same for cosmetology instructors. You must pay a $52 licensure fee to renew your operator license or $82 to renew your instructor license. This jumps to $152 or $182 if you renew late.
The industry is so large in this state that the South Carolina State Cosmetologist Association unites stylists in different areas. Between 2016 and 2026, O*Net anticipates a 13% increase in job openings for South Carolina cosmetologists (2019). On average, South Carolina cosmetologists earn $24,090 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019).
Whether youve always wanted to work in cosmetology or this is your first time thinking about employment in this industry, theres quite a bit to consider in the state of South Carolina. In tourist areas, spas help busy travelers relax and enjoy their vacation. Salons all over South Carolina serve residents and tourists, giving them the chance to get the perfect haircut, hair color, or style for a night out.
South Carolina Board of Cosmetology
Synergy Business Park - Kingstree Building
110 Centerview Drive
Columbia, SC 29210
Phone Number: 803-896-4588
Fax Number: 803-896-4484
E-mail Address: boardInfo@llr.sc.gov
For specific questions, please contact the South Carolina Board of Cosmetology directly for more information.
Cosmetology in South Carolina allows for many to have a definitive career
path that is fruitful and empowering. Supported by a solid infrastructure
of schools and salons, budding cosmetologists gain insight by consulting
these organizations.
South Carolina State Board of Barber Examiners
South Carolina Professional Barber and Cosmetology Association
American Association of Cosmetology Schools