Overview

HAIR DRESSERS, STYLISTS, MAKEUP ARTISTS, NAIL AND SKIN CARE ARE YOU A VISUAL AND ARTISTIC person with a keen eye for fashion? Are you good with your hands, and using tools? Cosmetology is a field where you can combine technical skills with creative flair in a variety of ways. Cosmetology is a very broad term. By definition, it is the study and application of hair and nail design and skin care. In reality, it is a fancy name for someone who helps people look good. Cosmetologists are licensed professionals who cut, color, and style hair; shape, buff, and paint nails on fingers and toes; and provide skin care such as facials, makeup application, hair removal, and body wraps. Most cosmetologists work in beauty salons, but the growing popularity of day spas has provided a new, more refined work setting. You can also find cosmetologists in department stores, on cruise ships, on film and television sets, and behind the scenes at fashion shows and magazine photo shoots. Some work with geriatric (elderly) clients in assisted living facilities, in hospitals, even in mortuary science settings. This is an industry, thanks in part to the popularity of fashion magazines and makeover shows on TV. It is a fast growing and desirable job with an excellent outlook that is unlikely to change, if history is any indication. Cosmetology has always been unaffected by downturns in the economy. Even during the Great Depression in the 1930s, women still wanted to look good and continued to visit their hairdressers regularly. When times are good, people spend even more time and money pampering themselves - plus, they tip better. Today, jobs are plentiful for both newly licensed operators and seasoned professionals. It is also ideal for anyone looking for part-time work. Salons are busiest in the evenings and on Saturdays; most hire part-time staff to cover those hours. Although starting pay can be low, there is a good earning potential. Typically, newly licensed cosmetologists start out earning a little more than minimum wage. But their income increases rapidly as they gain experience and build a steady clientele. In addition to a base salary, many cosmetologists earn tips, commissions on products they sell to their clients, and bonuses for attracting new customers to the salon. After a few years, the average cosmetologist earns between $30,000 and $50,000 annually. It is possible to earn even more in top salons. And those who work in the fashion and entertainment industries can earn as much as $4,000 - in a single day! All cosmetologists are licensed professionals. Requirements vary from state to state, but generally, one must be at least 16 years old, have a high school diploma, and complete an accredited training program at a cosmetology school or community college. Some states require an apprenticeship for a specified length of time. All states require applicants to pass a written test and to demonstrate basic cosmetology skills. Successful cosmetologists continue to learn and practice, attending frequent workshops throughout their careers to keep up with the latest techniques, new products, and changing styles. Few careers are as creative, flexible, and diverse. Cosmetology career options are almost unlimited. The possibilities in this field are so varied, you can literally create your own career path. Hairdresser, manicurist, product representative, esthetician, massage therapist, image consultant, makeup artist, instructor, business owner, consultant. These are just some of the choices for professionals in the exciting field of cosmetology.

Full Product Details

9781514735992

Table of Contents

Reviews

Author Information

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available