Cosmetology
A Career with a Dynamic Future

A career in cosmetology is one of the fastest growing professions. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the cosmetology field is expected to grow faster than the average for all other occupations through 2005.

The cosmetology field offers terrific career opportunities and gives individuals a chance to be creative, help people feel better about themselves, and to enjoy a flexible work schedule. In addition, the growing demand for skilled cosmetologists has increased the salaries for licensed professionals.

By definition, cosmetology is the study and application of hair and nail design and skin care. It is divided into three main areas:

• Cosmetology
• Skin care, also called esthetics
• Nail technology

What is Cosmetology?
Cosmetology students learn to cut, perm, color, and design hair as well as treat damaged hair. Students also must master basic skills in esthetics and nail technology.

Entry level salaries for salon stylists are higher than salaries for most other semi-skilled jobs. Stylists who develop their own clientele or who work in upscale salons can expect even higher incomes. Talented cosmetology professionals have discovered that their license may be a stepping stone to other careers such as salon manager, hair colorist, artistic director, photo stylist, makeup artist, or educator.

What is Esthetics?
Students entering the skin care field learn to perform facials and therapeutic massage, aromatherapy, makeup application, color analysis, hair removal, and the evaluation and treatment of minor skin disorders such as acne and dry, aging skin. Esthetics is one of cosmetology’s fastest growing areas.

In fact, there is currently a shortage of estheticians. While most estheticians work in salons, there are employment opportunities within skin care or cosmetic companies as manufacturers’ representatives and research assistants. And now, the medical field is opening its doors to estheticians who teach patients how to take care of their skin and to apply specialized makeup.

What is Nail Technology?
Nail technicians or manicurists care for clients’ hands, feet, and nails. Nail technicians perform many services such as manicures, pedicures, and more advanced nail procedures such as acrylic nail applications, silk wraps, and custom nail designs. They also offer therapeutic procedures such as paraffin wax treatments and hand and foot massage.

Licensed nail technicians can work in either full service salons or one of the growing numbers of nail salons. The opportunities are enormous because these establishments are also facing a shortage of skilled workers.

Due to the increasing popularity of nail care and the high demand for nail technicians, these professionals often have a lot of control over where they work and how much they earn.

Become a licensed cosmetology professional!
First, you should carefully select a quality school, one that is licensed by your state. Like any field, a solid education is the key to building a successful career. Once you have selected a school, you must complete the number of course hours mandated by your state and regulated by the state’s Board of Cosmetology.

For instance, the number of required hours for cosmetology differs from state to state, but usually falls between 1200 and 2200. This will take from nine months to two years. During this period, you will learn the required theory and have the opportunity to practice your skills. You will also be prepared to take the state boards.

After successfully passing the boards, you will receive your license and be on your way to a successful and profitable career!

Editorial provided by Cosmetology Research Center, Pivot Point International.