Beauty School

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Cosmetology is a field that encompasses many different types of beauty treatments and can include the following professions:

  • Hair stylist;
  • Skin care technician;
  • Manicurist / Pedicurist.

Many who work in this field enjoy the freedom of setting their own hours and wages. Salaries and the availability of jobs can vary greatly based on the particular region in which a cosmetologist works, as well as their specialty. Most people who become involved in cosmetology see a sharp increase in their wages after only a few years, as experience is one of the key factors to the wages of a cosmetologist.

Salary Expectations for Cosmetology

The majority of cosmetologists work for an hourly wage plus tips. The starting wages vary based on the specialty of the cosmetologist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the wages for each sector of cosmetology are as follows:

  • Hairdresser / Stylist. As of 2008, the median wage for hairdressers, including tip, was $11.13. The highest 10% earned over $20.41 per hour.
  • Skin care technicians. The median wage for skin care specialists was approximately $13.81 per hour, including tips.
  • Manicurists and pedicurists. While manicurists and pedicurists have a lower median wage of $9.46 per hour, this wage can vary dramatically based on experience and training.

It is common for people who are involved in the field of cosmetology to specialize in one particular aspect, such as manicures and pedicures, but it’s also common for a cosmetologist to crossover and work on several beauty techniques.

The Road to Cosmetology Licensing

In order to legally practice cosmetology, a person must complete a 1 or 2 year cosmetology program that has been state licensed. They will then be required to pass a state licensing exam. Many of the courses required to become certified can be completed online. However, many states require a certain number of contact hours that cannot be completed online. It’s important to remember that there is a different state licensing exam for stylists, skin care technicians and manicurists / pedicurists. The upside is that those who want to work in one specialty will not be required to train for another. Of course this also means that those who want to work in several industries must take several exams.

What to Expect From Cosmetology Training

The courses required during cosmetology training can cover how to style hair, perform manicures and pedicures, and comprehensive skin care techniques. The particular type of instruction will vary based on the specialty a person is training for, as well as the program they choose. Courses will also help prepare the student for passing the state licensing exam. However, many programs will also provide necessary business skills to become successful in the field of cosmetology.

Job Opportunities in Cosmetology

Many people with a certificate in cosmetology will either work at a salon or work for themselves but there are also other unique opportunities available, such as:

  • Manager or owner of salon;
  • Teacher at cosmetology school;
  • Inspector for the State Cosmetology board;
  • Cosmetics industry consultant or representative.
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