According to the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences, a cosmetologist is, “anyone performing manicures, hair cutting, styling, shampooing, makeup or other cosmetology services.” With this in mind, it’s easy to see how varied the career opportunities available to cosmetologists can be. The following are some of the most popular jobs held by cosmetologists.
Hair Styling
One of the largest divisions in cosmetology includes those professionals who are involved in the washing, cutting and styling of hair. Within this category, a cosmetologist can specialize in either men’s or women’s hair.
Typically, cosmetologists who cut men’s hair are known as barbers, while those who cut women’s hair have no such distinction. A cosmetologist may be responsible for washing hair, cutting and styling it, or applying color products. Larger salons may employ several different specialists – for example, one or more staff members who focus solely on bridal up-dos – while cosmetologists at smaller salons may be expected to handle all of these tasks themselves.
Instead of working with hair, some professional stylists focus on providing manicures and pedicures to clients. As a nail care specialist, you’ll trim, file and shape your client’s nails, apply polish and strengthening agents, and attach or maintain acrylic nails.
Consequently, you’ll need to stay on top of emerging nail fashion trends, be familiar with different nail products and tools and maintain a clean, hygienic workstation. Some manicurists find jobs at unisex salons that also offer hair services, while others work at boutique nail care shops.
Makeup Application
Finally, there’s another group of cosmetologists who focus exclusively on applying makeup and instructing clients on the proper application of cosmetics. Larger salons often employ makeup artists for the sole purpose of applying formal makeup for bridal parties and other special events, while some salons offer instructional lessons that help clients learn the correct way to apply makeup to their unique bone structure and coloration. Makeup artists may also be employed in the fashion, TV or movie industries, where they develop makeup looks for models and actors.
Potential for Advancement
Typically, there are two paths for advancement in the cosmetology field. Depending on your skills and experience, you may be able to work your way up the hierarchy of your salon or get a job at a higher-end salon where you’ll be able to charge higher rates for your services. This can be a difficult path, since you’ll need to justify any increase in your fees, and you may face animosity from colleagues who aren’t at your level. You may also lose clients in the process if they feel priced out of your new fee structure.
On the other hand, once you’ve worked in the field for a number of years, you may decide to open your own salon. While your income potential is significantly higher going this route, it does come with a number of extra responsibilities. You’ll have to rent your own space and deal with the legal and tax implications that come with owning your own business. You’ll also need to recruit stylists to work for you, monitor their work and address any customer complaints that arise. However, the satisfaction you derive from owning your own successful business may be enough to balance out these concerns.
