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Cosmetologists specialize in hair, skin and nail care. A cosmetologist is often referred to by other titles, such as beautician, barber or hairdresser. Many cosmetologists concentrate on hair care, including shampooing, cutting, styling, coloring, conditioning, straightening and waving. However, many cosmetologists are branching out into other areas of beauty care such as facials and scalp massages, manicures, and pedicures.
Training to become a cosmetologist can take from 6 to 12 months. Cosmetology training is provided by public and private vocational schools. To operate as a cosmetologist, all states currently require licensing. The requirements for each state vary. In most states, an applicant for a cosmetology license must be 16 years old and a graduate of an accredited cosmetology school. In some states, a high school diploma is required, while others only require completing tenth grade. Continuing education is sometimes necessary to stay abreast of the latest styles and provide the most up-to-date care for clients. -
There are several categories that fall under the umbrella of cosmetologist. Some people perform more than one task that falls into this umbrella, while others specialize in only one category.
Hairdressers and hairstylists work with hair, shampooing, styling, cutting, coloring, straightening, or waving. A hairdresser/hairstylist will teach a client how to care for her hair in between visits and consult with the client to be sure the client is getting the hairstyle that fits her personality and lifestyle. Hairdressers/hairstylists sometimes perform other tasks involving skin and nail care.
Barbers most often shampoo, cut, trim and style hair. A barber's clients are mostly men. Barbers are also licensed to color and perm hair.
Nail technicians, also known as manicurists and pedicurists, specialize in nail care, including providing manicures (fingernails) and pedicures (toenails) as well as extending and polishing the nails. Most nail technicians work exclusively with nails and many nail salons are stand-alone businesses. However, some hairdressers provide this service to their customers.
Estheticians are specialists in skin care. An esthetician specializing in cleansing and beautifying the skin. Estheticians give facials as well as full body treatments to cleanse the skin. They also remove body hair via waxing or laser treatments. Estheticians who provide laser treatments for hair removal must be specially trained. An esthetician may also give neck and head massages, as well as apply makeup. - There are many benefits to becoming a cosmetologist. It is possible to complete the education requirements in as little as 6 months. A college degree is not required. This a career that can be fast-tracked and a person can get into the work force in a small amount of time as compared to other careers. Another benefit is that this is a relatively easy way to start your own business. Many salon owners begin by working from home and, as their business expands, they are able to purchase a salon and continue the expansion by hiring hairdressers to work for them. Or, if the goal is to work from home, a small one-person operation fits comfortably in many homes. Around 46% of cosmetologists are self-employed.
- While entering the field of cosmetology is relatively easy, cosmetologists play an important role in society. With the focus on beauty and the ongoing search for the "fountain of youth," there is a huge window of opportunity for people who specialize in hair, skin and nail care. The continuing growth of the entertainment industry has also made cosmetology an important part of our society. Another factor is the number of professional women. Now that women are more than housewives, and are taking a more active role in higher positions within our society, many rely on cosmetologists to help them maintain a professional and healthy look for skin, hair and nails.
- The world of cosmetology has gone through significant changes since the 1950s. The beauty industry has become one of the leading industries in the world. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, job opportunities in the cosmetology field are expected to grow by around 14 percent in the 10 years from 2006 to 2016. The earning potential depends on the location of the salon (small town/large city) and the size of the salon.
