Are you ready to pursue a career in cosmetology? Ok, great! But what exactly is cosmetology? Cosmetology is defined as the study and application of beauty treatments, including hair styling, skin care, cosmetics, manicures/pedicures, and permanent or non-permanent hair removal. Understand it’s not just about the above or passing a state board exam; it’s also about innovation, knowledge of business, and training in customer service.
When you enroll in a program, you will have the opportunity to receive instruction in several vital areas of cosmetology. After successfully completing the program, you will be able to earn a Certificate of Achievement from a program like one from KZ Academy and/or Associate in Science degree if you attended a college that offered a program like San Jose City College does in the Silicon Valley. Once you’ve completed a program, you’re now a licensed cosmetologist!
Be aware a cosmetologist is not only proficient in hair treatments, facials, and other skin and nail treatments. They are also versed in business and marketing skills that will be used to grow their personal brand and increase their earning potential. They will have gained product knowledge and consultation techniques for client home care as well as the utilization of modern technology for learning; including the integration of mobile devices and social media for the modern salon promotion.
Cosmetologists can specialize in one of the beauty treatments they’ve learned or any of the sub-categories of cosmetology. This included becoming a hair stylist, hair colorist, manicurist, esthetician, or an electrologist. However, most specialize in more than one of these categories, that will allow them to offer a variety of services to a larger clientele. Here are some available opportunities once licensed.
- Hair Stylist – This is definitely one of the most common careers that a newly licensed cosmetologist will go after.
- Barber – Barbering has become a sought-after, fashionable and in-demand livelihood and continues to be the perfect career option for men and women alike.
- Nail Technician – Since nails are a big focus in most programs, many often find themselves pursing a nail tech position after graduation. If you’re creative and unique with nail designs, you can often be offered amazing opportunities to create wild designs in an ever-changing industry.
- Makeup Artist – A small percentage of grads can end up working behind the scenes on television shows, in theaters, and on movie sets if they are good enough to earn that opportunity. It’s a fast-paced job that requires a high tolerance for stress, but the rewards make it exciting, fulfilling and worthwhile.
- Barbershop or Salon Owner – After working as a hairstylist at a salon or as a barber at a barbershop, some grads become entrepreneurs and work for themselves. It takes some additional business acumen, but the freedom of working for yourself can be very fulfilling.
- Esthetician – Estheticians skilled are at helping people look their best. Whether is from skincare to waxing, this career is great for those who are looking for something outside of the norm. This position specializes in facials, light cosmetic enhancements, chemical peels, full-body treatments, and more.