How Is Math Used by a Cosmetologist?
Successful cosmetologists apply basic math skills to many of their job duties, including hair cutting and the formulation of hair color, scalp treatments and permanent waves. Many cosmetologists also are independent contractors, and need math principles such as accounting and business finance to run their businesses efficiently. Because time is money in the salon, cosmetologists also need math skills for scheduling purposes and to help manage their time efficiently.
Other People Are Reading
-
Misconceptions
-
Many people think cosmetology is a career that is based mostly on art, design, creativity and communications, but the knowledge of many other disciplines, including basic math, also is required. An understanding of math is necessary for a cosmetologist when performing many client services, as well as when she purchases supplies, collects money and balances her books.
Significance
-
Precision haircutting requires math. Math is significant for cosmetologists because the very nature of cutting hair involves taking measurements to achieve an even and balanced haircut. Cosmetologists also use basic math concepts such as proportion and balance to create a pleasing style that will flatter the client's facial features and body type. Without a fundamental knowledge of balance and proportion along with design principles, this would not be possible.
-
Benefits
-
Cosmetologists benefit from the knowledge of percentage and ratios, more math skills, when they mix chemicals such as hair color and permanent wave solutions. Without an understanding of ratios, they cannot accurately create the proper formulations to achieve the results desired by their clients, and they might actually damage the hair and scalp with the use of improperly mixed formulas. This basic math knowledge also helps to ensure more consistent results each time a chemical service is performed.
Considerations
-
A math background is important. When considering a career in cosmetology, potential students should have a background not only in art, design and communication, but also business, science and math. Basic math concepts such as decimals, percentages and measurement are extremely important, as are prior courses in algebra, geometry, bookkeeping, economics, and problem-solving. While the obvious focus of a cosmetology career is not heavily based upon math, a well-rounded education of all subjects, including math, is recommended.
Features
-
Some of the features of a comprehensive cosmetology program include a focus on the math skills necessary to be successful in the business of cosmetology. Most cosmetology schools include instruction in subjects such as basic accounting, business, and math to teach students the skills necessary to successfully manage or own a salon. As with most effective educational programs, math is an important component to well-rounded cosmetology training.
Effects
-
Time is money. Another positive effect that a math background has upon the cosmetologist is the ability to efficiently schedule appointments and manage her time. Without this knowledge, a cosmetologist may not be able stay on schedule regarding client appointments and will either try to fit too many clients or have too much idle time and thus not be able to effectively maximize her income potential. Calculating the time required to perform various salon services is an important part of a cosmetologist's job.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit cutting off percents image by hugy from Fotolia.com hair cut image by MLProject from Fotolia.com School Supplies image by ne_fall_photos from Fotolia.com time-money image by Vladimir Gryaznov from Fotolia.com
