Cosmotologists

Licensed cosmetologists work in a rewarding field, helping people look and feel their best. Some of the benefits of becoming a licensed cosmetologist include job security (the salon industry needs more professionals than can be supplied), flexible hours and great income potential.

To work as a hairstylist, nail technician, esthetician or other type of salon/spa professional, students must gain licensure at a cosmetology school and pass a state board exam. Licensing requirements vary from state to state.

How to succeed
Successful cosmetologists have strong customer service skills as well as outstanding technical skills. Clients return to a beauty professional who does great work and makes them look and feel great. The most successful beauty professionals also keep abreast of the latest hair, personal care and fashion trends.

Hair Stylist
Above all, great stylists possess strong interpersonal skills, making each client feel at ease.A hair stylist is not simply someone who cuts hair. In today's salons, stylists are expected to be proficient in hair treatments, cutting, coloring, texturizing and styling and relaxing hair. In addition, many of the best-paid stylists are excellent at selling professional salon products.

Nail Technician
Today's nail technicians are proficient in a variety of nail services including, but not limited to manicures, pedicures, nail sculpting, nail art, silk and fiberglass wraps, gel nails and hand and foot massage.

Esthetician
Now more than ever, people realize the benefits of proper skincare, making esthetics one of the fastest growing segments of the salon/spa industry. Estheticians perform a variety of treatments, including skin analysis, facials, massage, hair removal and more.

Career Paths
With a cosmetology license and an education from an accredited cosmetology school, the career choices are vast. Here are just a few of the opportunities available:
. Nail Artist/Manicurist
. Hairstylist
. Makeup Artist
. Hair Color Specialist
. Esthetician
. Salon Manager
. Salon Owner
. Spa Owner
. Spa Manager
. Product Distributor
. Sales Consultant
. Manufacturer's Sales Rep
. Salon Sales Consultant
. Cosmetology School Educator
. Cosmetology School Owner
. Image Consultant
. Photo and Movie Stylist
. Magazine Writer/Editor

Education and Training
Education requirements for admission to cosmetology school vary by state. Most states require a high school diploma or GED. Some states allow the potential student to pass an Ability to Benefit test in lieu of holding a diploma or GED. To learn about specific requirements, contact your local cosmetology school or State Board of Cosmetology. To find State Board information, visit www.beautytech.com.

Cosmetology courses are offered in many high schools, vocational and technical schools, community colleges and private schools. Tuition can vary greatly by school. Required hours also vary by state and by program. Cosmetology programs generally require the most hours, while nail technology programs usually require the fewest. For example, it would not be unusual for a cosmetology program to require 1600 hours of practical and theory experience. A nail technology program may require only 350 hours.

Students should be prepared to take classes in anatomy, physiology, hygiene, infection control and chemistry as well as business-building courses. Most programs of study will include classroom theory and practical clinic floor experience.

Licensing
All states require cosmetologists to be licensed, and requirements vary from state to state. Typically, in addition to having a high school diploma, you must meet an age requirement and in some states pass a medical exam. You also must complete a designated number of hours in instruction and hands-on practice at a licensed cosmetology school. You will be required to take a State Board examination and pass both the written and practical tests administered by a State Board of Examiners.

Demand and Earnings*
In 2004, stylists, cosmetologists, manicurists, pedicurists and other personal appearance workers accounted for about 790,000 jobs in the United States. Most of these people were employed in beauty salons or barber shops, but they also found employment in nail salons, day and resort spas, department stores, nursing homes and drug and cosmetic stores. About 48 percent of all personal appearance workers are self-employed.
Overall employment for personal appearance workers is projected to grow at about 9-17% through 2014. However, employment of manicurists, pedicurists and skin-care specialists will grow faster than the average, at about 27% or more.

Factors including the size and location of the salon, clients' tipping habits and competition from other salons determine the total income of personal appearance workers. A cosmetologist's initiative and ability to attract and keep a loyal clientele are key factors in determining earnings.

*Based on U.S. Department of Labor statistics.

Editorial provided by Emily Yager, Advertising Manager, Regis Schools.