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Cosmetologist Career Information

P ersonal appearance is an important element in developing confidence and self-esteem. Most of us want to look good because looking good often means feeling good. That's why we have cosmetology. Information, products, and services that can help people look their best are always highly sought-after (as are the professionals that help us take our individual beauty to a higher level). So, what is a cosmetologist?

What is a Cosmetologist?

A cosmetologist is:

• Someone who has been trained in the skillful cosmetic treatment of hair, skin, and nails
• A professional who holds a cosmetology license in the state in which he or she works
• Often a specialist in one or more areas of cosmetology, sometimes going by titles such as hairstylist, hairdresser, colorist, beautician, manicurist, or makeup artist

Most licensed cosmetologists—about 90 percent—are women, but men can also find success in the beauty industry.

What is a Typical Cosmetologist Job Description?
(What Does a Cosmetologist Do?)

A typical cosmetologist job description doesn't really exist since the range of beauty services that one can perform is so wide (and is always expanding). Cosmetology is a field with an incredible number of options. While most cosmetologists focus on hairstyling, many others choose to make skin or nails the focal point of their cosmetology careers. And some do it all. So, what does a cosmetologist do?

Depending on where they are in their careers and what they've chosen to focus on, cosmetologists carry out tasks for their clients, such as:

• Shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling hair
• Giving hair care advice
• Performing manicures (trimming, shaping, and polishing fingernails, removing cuticles, and softening the skin of hands)
• Conducting pedicures (trimming, shaping, and polishing toenails, removing cuticles, and massaging and softening feet)
• Doing scalp treatments
• Performing facials (cleaning and softening the skin of the face)
• Advising on makeup choices and application
• Cleaning and styling wigs and other hairpieces
• Removing unwanted body hair
• Giving head, neck, and arm massages
• Selling beauty products for the care of hair, skin, or nails
• Keeping records of hair color and skin-care regimens (for regular clients)

Cosmetologists are expected to keep their work areas clean and their tools sanitary. Those who own and manage their own salons may also perform duties such as:

• Hiring and supervising cosmetologists and other salon personnel
• Maintaining accurate and up-to-date inventory and business records
• Ordering necessary supplies
• Purchasing advertising and other marketing services

What is the Difference Between a Cosmetologist and an Esthetician?

Although a cosmetologist (with the right training) is sometimes also an esthetician, an esthetician is not usually a cosmetologist. That's because cosmetology incorporates general care for hair, skin, and nails whereas esthetics, as a career, is solely about specialized skin care.

Licensed estheticians, in general, have received more advanced training than cosmetologists in various facial beauty treatments, makeup application, full-body skin treatments, and hair removal techniques. They often earn certifications in special procedures such as micropigmentation (subtle facial tattooing like permanent eyeliner), chemical resurfacing, microdermabrasion (mechanical removal of skin imperfections), and electrolysis. Estheticians are also sometimes more involved in providing certain massage services such as reflexology.

In many states, you must obtain separate licenses (and training) for cosmetology and esthetics.

Where Can a Cosmetologist Work?

Most cosmetologists work in stand-alone hair and beauty salons. However, careers in cosmetology can also involve employment at spas, hotels, resorts, and residential care homes.

Of course, many experienced cosmetologists are self-employed and choose to work from home. Some even offer mobile beauty services, traveling to their clients' locations to perform hair, skin, or nail treatments.

What are the Pros and Cons of Being a Cosmetologist?

The field of cosmetology is full of professionals who love what they do for a living. The beauty industry, however, is not necessarily as glamorous as it may appear. Those who succeed as cosmetologists are able to do so because their passion for people, hair, and beauty carries them through the hard work and less-pleasing aspects of their jobs. So, before jumping into a career in cosmetology, it's a good idea to know what you could be getting yourself into.

Cosmetologists often share a number of common downsides to their work. Here are a few:

• The constant focus on beauty, image, and vanity can become tiring, especially since cosmetologists are expected to maintain an appearance that complements the work they do.
• Sore knees, shoulders, arms, and feet are frequently a result of standing for very long periods, sometimes for 10 hours or more per day. This is especially true of new cosmetologists who are getting started in their careers.
• Building a steady base of clients generally takes a long time. Depending on your self-promotion skills, employer, and location, it can take from one to three years to establish a solid clientele. Maintaining that client base can be an ongoing challenge.
• Until you gain a good amount of regular clients and experience, your cosmetology wages could be much lower than you hope for.
• Cosmetologists frequently must work evenings and weekends to accommodate the schedules of their clients who have standard day jobs. In fact, salons tend to be busiest at these times.
• Unless you really love providing hair and other beauty services, cosmetology can sometimes feel a bit repetitive.
• The pressure to sell beauty products (for commission) can sometimes cause extra stress, especially if you're not a naturally gifted salesperson.
• Making mistakes can be costly (both financially and to your reputation), particularly if a client decides to sue you over a botched procedure. Such occasions are rare, but even bad word of mouth can be damaging to your career.
• Working in close proximity to an assortment of different people can expose you to infectious illnesses. You may also have to work with unpleasant or irritating chemicals.

Even with these drawbacks, cosmetology can be a rewarding profession. Here are a few reasons why:

• The satisfaction and confidence that you can give your clients by helping them look their best can also result in a great feeling of personal fulfillment and accomplishment for yourself. Plus, most cosmetologists are able to please their clients most of the time.
• Due to the wide range of beauty services, skilled cosmetologists with up-to-date training can have many options within their careers.
• As long as you meet the necessary licensing requirements, you can work wherever you choose. Cosmetology skills are portable.
• With adequate experience, cosmetologists can become self-employed with little expense compared to other fields.
• Cosmetology gives you the opportunity to meet—and delight—a wide variety of people.
• Your regular, long-term clients can easily turn into long-term friends.
• If you like to talk to other people on a personal level, then cosmetology is one of the few career fields that allows you to do so most of the day, every day.
• You can be rewarded for staying on top of current fashion and design trends.
• Cosmetologists provide services that must be done locally, so they are protected from the trend of overseas outsourcing. This might not seem like a bit deal, but, in today's world, this is an important point to consider as you think about your future.

How Much Does a Cosmetologist Make a Year?

Wages tend to be relatively low for a new cosmetologist. "Salary" really isn't the proper term to describe the financial compensation of most cosmetologists. This is because cosmetology wages are usually based on an hourly rate, on commissions, or both (plus tips). It takes time for a newly trained cosmetologist to make what is considered average to good earnings in the industry. As they gain experience, improve their skills, and grow their clientele, cosmetologists' earning power increases. So, how much does a cosmetologist make a year?

Based on national estimates, the typical annual wages of non-self-employed cosmetologists who do hairstyling break down this way: *

• The bottom 10 percent earn $16,350 or less.
• Median wages (50th percentile) are $22,760.
• The top 10 percent earn $41,540 or more.

Experienced cosmetologists have the potential to earn far more than the above by becoming self-employed or owning their own salons. Of course, how much a cosmetologist makes can also depend on the location and size of the salon in which he or she works, the commissions earned for selling beauty products, and his or her ability to attract and retain regular clients.

Some salons offer benefits such as paid vacation and health insurance; however, many do not. It's a good idea to take this into account when looking for a new employer.

Do I Need to Get a Cosmetology License or Meet Any Other Requirements?

The short answer is yes. All states in the U.S. require cosmetologists to be licensed, but the specific requirements vary from state to state. How you go about becoming a licensed cosmetologist depends on the options outlined within the regulations of the state in which you intend to work.

The best thing you can do before pursuing a cosmetology license is to contact your state's board of cosmetology to find out exactly what is required of you, and what your training options are.

In the meantime, here are some things to keep in mind:

• Most states currently require a minimum number of training hours or credits to be earned from a state-approved cosmetology school before you can qualify for a license.
• A few states give you the option of receiving your training from either an approved beauty school or by way of an apprenticeship. The number of hours you must earn through an apprenticeship, however, is usually about double the number required from cosmetology school. Apprenticeship hours and cosmetology school hours are completely separate from each other (i.e., any hours accumulated from an apprenticeship, in general, cannot be counted toward your required beauty school hours—or vice versa).
• Most states require you to be at least 16-years-old and have a high school diploma or GED in order to qualify for a cosmetology license. Most beauty schools also require this before you can begin training. Some high schools, however, have their own vocational programs for cosmetology.
• Once you have fulfilled the requirement for training hours, you still must pass state licensing examinations. In most states, that means passing two exams—a written test and either a practical skills test or an oral exam.
• The written exams from state boards of cosmetology often include subject areas such as infection control (personal hygiene, sanitation, and sterilization), safety precautions, haircutting, hairstyling, hair coloring and related chemicals, professional ethics, general anatomy and physiology, state laws and regulations, electricity, scalp disorders, salon management, skin care principles, and nail care basics.
• The practical skills exams generally necessitate the use of a mannequin, but a few states may require that you use a live model instead. It varies by state, but the skills you must successfully demonstrate can include procedures, such as shampooing, draping, hair shaping, haircutting, thermal curling, setting pin curls and rollers, wet hairstyling, weaving, chemical waving, blow-dry styling, hair coloring and retouching, chemical relaxing, thermal straightening, performing a basic facial, handling a blood spill, performing a basic manicure, eyebrow arching, and applying makeup.
• Some states require that you periodically renew your cosmetology license. This might mean fulfilling specific continuing education requirements.
• If you are licensed in one state and decide to move to another one to work, you will need to check the regulations of the state you are moving to. In most cases, your cosmetology license will NOT simply transfer over. You may be required to obtain additional training hours in your new state or take that state's exams. Very few states have reciprocity agreements (allowing a license from one state to transfer smoothly to another). So plan ahead.

Beyond the requirements imposed by state boards of cosmetology, those who become successful cosmetologists also possess the following characteristics:

• An uncompromising passion for hair and beauty
• A genuine desire to help other people look their best
• A willingness to embrace the underlying technical aspects of the work
• Good health and physical stamina
• A neat, well-maintained personal appearance
• A love for people of all kinds
• Great interpersonal skills
• An engaging, positive attitude
• Self-confidence
• A solid understanding of fashion, art, and design
• The willingness and ability to listen intently
• Good hand dexterity
• Sales and promotional skills
• A desire to stay current and keep learning

Can You Tell Me How to Become a Cosmetologist (and Succeed)?

If you want to know how to become a cosmetologist, then it is imperative that you first understand the licensing requirements of the state in which you intend to work. In most cases, you won't have a choice about your training: you will have to select and attend a beauty school. In other cases, though, you might have the option of pursuing an apprenticeship instead.

Regardless of how you receive your cosmetology training, that's where it all starts. But to give yourself the best shot at a successful career, there are a number of things you should keep in mind. Here are some of them:

• Not all beauty schools teach all aspects of cosmetology equally well. For example, some schools focus so much on hair that the training in skin and nail care can feel like an afterthought. Look for a beauty school that treats all areas of cosmetology with equal importance.
• Most cosmetology schools will only teach you the basics—enough to pass state licensing exams. But school is only the beginning. After you graduate and find employment, you'll need to be prepared to keep learning through both on-the-job training and advanced continuing education classes.
• While in school, you should network with as many experienced beauty professionals as possible. Knowing a variety of stylists, estheticians, massage therapists, and others can pay off big later on when you are looking for work.
• If your state allows it and you choose to seek an apprenticeship as an alternative to attending beauty school, then you'll have a lot to consider. First, you will need to find a licensed master cosmetologist who is willing to teach you—not an easy task unless you already have good connections. You will likely have to purchase your own books and supplies and do any necessary bookwork on your own. Apprenticeships are not usually as well structured as school, so it will be up to you to take charge of your cosmetology training and ask to learn specific techniques and procedures. Just beware; not all apprenticeships include wages, and even the ones that do are often not well paying. Plus, apprenticeships take much longer than school to prepare you for state licensing exams—as much as two to three times longer.
• No matter which form of training you pursue, at the end of it you will have to obtain your cosmetology license—and then find work. This is where many cosmetologists become discouraged. Finding a good first job requires patience, motivation, and persistence. To be successful, you will need to stick out the hard times without losing confidence in your talents.
• As a newly licensed cosmetologist, sacrificing a little in the short-term (in the way of title and pay) can lead to greater long-term success. By obtaining a position as an "apprentice" or "stylist assistant" at a large high-end salon, you will have the chance to observe and learn from a good variety of accomplished cosmetologists. The training you can receive from such a salon is often better than what you can get from a discount chain. You may have to do some of the "dirty" work (such as sweeping, doing laundry, and shampooing clients) for a year or more while you learn more advanced techniques, but you will eventually have your shot at "getting on the floor" to perform cosmetology services for paying clients (usually new ones or walk-ins). It's all about earning the respect of the salon owners and other cosmetologists, and making connections with potential future clients and people who can help you.
• Some salons will test your skills before hiring you. You may be responsible for finding your own live model on which to demonstrate one or more designated cosmetology procedures.
• Finding a good salon to work in is a lot like dating. It's just a matter of finding the right match, with some trial and error. But you can often spot a good one by looking for things such as whether it is a member of the Professional Beauty Association (PBA), whether it has a continuing education fund, and whether it offers paid vacation and health insurance to its employees. You'll want to find a salon that cares about you and your professional development.
• It takes time to develop the kinds of advanced skills that can attract steady, well-paying clients. You will need constant practice in the art and techniques of cosmetology as well as in your professionalism. You'll need to be willing to "pay your dues" through long hours and hard work.
• The more work you put into developing your cosmetology career, the more you can get back. You have to be a go-getter. You have to take your work seriously.
• Early in your career, it is best to try and stay in one location, with one employer, for at least a few years. You need to establish a stable base of your own regular clients, which can take a long time. Switching salons or locations can mean losing many of the clients you worked so hard to attract.
• It is important to stay on top of the latest cosmetology trends and techniques by taking extra classes and seeking new advanced training every year or as often as you can.
• The more services you are able to perform, the more employment opportunities you are likely to have. For instance, you are likely to garner more interest if you combine your cosmetology license with a license in something like massage therapy or esthetics.
• Many cosmetologists find that their work becomes the most rewarding (personally and financially) when they are able to own their own businesses. But this is only advisable once you've attracted a large and loyal clientele. And, depending on your state, you may need to obtain a management license in order to work out of your home or to rent a retail space. To help offset some of the startup and operating costs of launching your own business, it's a good idea to consider teaming up with another professional (an esthetician or massage therapist, for example) who can complement the services you offer and share these costs.

How Long is Cosmetology School?

Because they are not all created equal, the length of programs offered by beauty schools can vary significantly. Plus, a lot depends on the regulations of your state and how many training hours are required in order to qualify for a cosmetology license. So, how long is cosmetology school?

Most full cosmetology programs (those that include training in hair, skin, and nails) take nine months to one year to complete. It is possible to find programs that are far shorter than this; however, such programs often do not include enough adequate training to prepare students for state licensing exams.

In some states, it is possible to obtain a license for just skin or nails. That means, if you don't want to do hair, you could conceivably attend a beauty school to become a skin care specialist or nail technician and spend only four months or less in training.

How Much is Cosmetology School?

The cost of cosmetology school depends a lot on location and the type of institution. Beauty schools tend to be more expensive in urban settings than in rural areas. But that isn't always the case. So, how much is cosmetology school?

Cosmetology school tuition typically ranges from about $5,000 to $20,000 for a full cosmetology program (with some schools costing significantly more or less). In addition to tuition, cosmetology students are usually responsible for purchasing their own books and supplies.

Many beauty schools have grant programs for creative and motivated students. Plus, other types of financial aid (such as student loans) are commonly available for those who qualify.

What Can I Expect to Learn in Beauty School?

Most beauty schools teach the fundamentals of cosmetology—enough to prepare you to pass state licensing exams. Beauty school is seen as a rite of passage by many cosmetologists—one that is both fun and challenging.

Many beauty schools set strict policies for attendance, dress code, and punctuality. They want their students prepared for a competitive job market. That means they demand more than just learning how to perform hair, skin, or nail procedures; they also demand personal discipline so that students will be early to work, clean their stations, and maintain high levels of professionalism long after they graduate.

In addition to classroom study, many beauty schools also have their own on-site salons where students can practice their skills on real clients (who pay discounted prices for the services).

The actual curriculum used by many cosmetology schools is the same as, or very similar to, what is found in Milady's Standard Cosmetology textbooks. A full cosmetology program generally includes the following subjects:

• Basic life skills (such as setting goals and maintaining a positive attitude)
• Developing a professional image
• Communication skills
• Infection control (including how to prevent the spread of hepatitis, HIV, or other infectious viruses or bacteria in a salon)
• General anatomy and physiology
• Basics of chemistry and electricity
• Hair and scalp characteristics
• Principles of hair design (such as how to enhance a person's look based on facial shape)
• Basic hair care (shampooing, rinsing, and conditioning)
• Basic haircutting (including core cuts)
• Hairstyling (including how to use the proper tools and techniques)
• Hair braiding and braid extensions
• Hair coloring
• Chemical hair texturing
• Wigs and other hair enhancements
• Properties of skin and nails (including how they grow)
• Skin diseases and disorders
• Hair removal (such as waxing and tweezing)
• Performing basic facials
• Makeup
• Nail diseases and disorders
• Performing manicures
• Performing pedicures
• Creating a resume and portfolio
• Preparing for job interviews
• Basic business skills
• Preparing for state licensure exams

When It Comes to Careers in Cosmetology, Outlook for Jobs is Important.
Are Cosmetologists in Demand?

Yes, cosmetologists are in demand. In fact, few career sectors withstand changing economic conditions as well as cosmetology. The outlook for jobs in this field remains consistently positive. In America, employment of cosmetologists who do hair is expected to increase by about 20 percent between 2008 and 2018 (much faster than average). **

The beauty industry is expanding, and that includes the field of cosmetology. Demand for cosmetologists will stay strong for a number of reasons. America's growing population means that the need for basic hair services will grow right along with it. And baby boomers and young people alike are increasingly seeking out advanced hair treatments and spa services such as skin and nail treatments.

Despite the high demand for hair stylists and other beauty professionals, the market for the best jobs and clients (such as those from high-paying salons) will continue to be very competitive. Cosmetology is all about survival of the fittest. Opportunities will be best for experienced cosmetologists who are licensed in a broad range of services. Success depends on your love of the field, your talent, and your determination.

What Options Exist for Advancement in a Cosmetology Career?

When it comes to advancement in a cosmetology career, information is sometimes hard to come by. It's easy to understand that more clients and more money can come from keeping up with the latest trends and maintaining advanced skills. And, of course, cosmetologists can also increase their incomes (and profile) by becoming great at selling beauty products to their clients, managing salons, or even opening their own beauty shops. But beyond these typical options for advancement, there are additional opportunities.

Experienced cosmetologists can teach in beauty schools, become sales representatives for beauty-product companies, work as image or fashion consultants, or even act as examiners for their state licensing boards.

There is one additional option, although it has less to do with advancement than as a way to supplement a regular cosmetology income. But it is not for the faint of heart. What is cosmetology good for if not to make people look their best, especially the ones who really need it? Well, nobody needs help looking pretty more than a dead person.

That's right, there is actually an area of cosmetology reserved for the deceased. It's called desairology. As a part-time desairologist, you could help restore some beauty and recognizability to the dearly departed by doing their hair, makeup, nails, or all three. Under the supervision of a licensed mortician in a funeral home, you could capture the essence of the deceased and help to create a positive final memory of the person for his or her loved ones. Most desairology work occurs on an on-call and freelance basis. It takes courage and maturity, but it is work that can make a big difference in the lives of grieving families. (Here's an interesting tidbit: Did you know that men generally receive more post-mortem beauty care than women? It's true!)

How Can I Get Started?

Armed with the latest cosmetology facts, you can move forward with greater confidence. Start by calling your state's board of cosmetology, learning what your training options are, and checking out our list of
beauty schools. Then, get ready to help other people look and feel their confident best.

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Main Sources

* Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment Statistics, web site last accessed on Nov. 21, 2011.

** Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-11 Edition, web site last accessed on Nov. 21, 2011.

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET), web site last accessed on Nov. 21, 2011.

Professional Beauty Association | National Cosmetology Association (PBA | NCA), web site last accessed on Nov. 21, 2011.

National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology, web site last accessed on Nov. 21, 2011.