The job duties of a cosmetologist vary depending upon their specialization, title, education level, and place of employment. Titles and specializations that are encompassed within the cosmetology profession include:
Barbers - The typical barber trims, shampoos, and styles hair, along with providing facial shaving, skin care, and nail treatments.
Hairdressers or Hairstylists - These professionals are often graduates of cosmetology schools. Hairdressers and hairstylists offer a wide variety of services, including hair shampooing, cutting, coloring, and styling. Some hairdressers and hairstylists are also trained to give nail and skin treatments.
Skin Care Specialists - These professionals cleanse and improve skin by providing facials, massage, and other skin care treatments. Estheticians and skin care specialists are often qualified to remove hair through waxing and sometimes electrolysis.
Make-up Artists - Some cosmetologists specialize in the application of make-up, offering service, training, and advice to clients.
Nail Technicians - Also known as manicurists and pedicurists, nail technicians provide manicures, pedicures, nail coloring, and nail extensions. In addition to these services, nail technicians also offer clients advice on how to care for the skin on their hands and feet.
Shampooers - Many salons and spas employ shampooers who specialize in shampooing, conditioning, and treating hair. Some shampooers also service wigs and toupees.
Cosmetologists are most often employed at salons, barbershops, spas, department stores, and residential homes. Approximately 50% of cosmetologists are self-employed, either owning their own business, or leasing a spot within someone else’s salon or spa.
The cosmetologists who are self-employed have additional responsibilities that come with running your own business. Duties include the hiring and supervising of employees, business record maintenance, marketing, etc.
Though qualifications for a license vary, most states require cosmetologists to be licensed. Licenses can usually be obtained after graduating from cosmetology school.
Cosmetology schools are readily available to anyone who aspires to become part of the profession. The admission requirements for cosmetology schools vary depending upon the school. Some cosmetology schools require a high school diploma, while others require nothing more than an eighth grade education. In some cases, an apprenticeship can be substituted for a cosmetology school education.
Most cosmetology schools offer part-time programs, full-time programs, and/or distance learning programs. The length of these programs varies depending upon the specialization. Barbering and hairdressing courses usually last a minimum of six months, but may be as long as two years. Professional training for other cosmetology specializations can be significantly shorter.
Cosmetology school graduates must take a state exam to officially obtain their license. The exam may be written, oral, or practical depending upon the practicing state. Some states require separate license examinations for hairstylists, manicurists, pedicurists, and skin care specialists.
Many cosmetologists participate in an apprenticeship after they have graduated from cosmetology school. Apprenticeships typically last for 1-3 years.
In general, the job outlook for cosmetologists is good. Jobs in the cosmetology profession are expected to grow at an average rate. However, cosmetology will continue to be a competitive market. Cosmetology school graduates will have the best opportunity for success, especially those who specialize in a multitude of services.
Earnings for cosmetologists vary depending upon the level of experience, geographic location, and specialization. The median annual earnings for cosmetologists are as follows:
Make-up Artists- $26,000
Estheticians/Skin Care Specialists- $25,000
Barbers- $22,000
Hairdressers/Hairstylists- $20,000
Nail Technicians- $19,000
Shampooers- $15,000