What to Expect From Cosmetology School?

Answer 1

Cosmetologists make a career out of beauty. This career is for those who enjoy styling others. Cosmetologists care for their clients’ hair, skin, and nails. Most cosmetologists focus on a particular area of practice. Some are interested in becoming professional hair stylists, some are more interested in makeup, and others work as manicurists and body waxing artists. In order to work as a licensed cosmetologist, these stylists must complete a certificate program. Most Cosmetology programs are offered at technical schools and beauty colleges.

Education

Cosmetology certificates from technical colleges can generally be completed in 1 to 2 years. These programs are generally easy to enroll in. They require transcripts from high school coursework or a GED equivalent. They may also require some sort of placement testing that measures a student’s competency in basic math and English.

Once admitted into a cosmetology program, students should expect a training program that is hands-on. Students learn by performing nail, skin, and hair care procedures on customers. Most schools run their own version of a beauty salon. They charge customers a reduced fee for hair cutting, permanent waves, nail care, waxing, etc. This allows the customer to receive discounted beauty care, and most importantly for the school, it allows students a chance to develop their skills. Many schools also require students to complete an internship.

Students complete many of the following courses. Some are more geared toward a certain certificate program, but most schools offer the following:

--Skin anatomy and physiology

--Introductory esthetics

--Haircutting

--Hair color

--Manicuring and pedicuring

--Shampooing and styling

--Skin Care

--Permanents and relaxers

--Makeup

--Salon care and management

Career Options

Once they’ve obtained their certificate, students must pass their state’s licensing exam. A license qualifies a cosmetologist to work in beauty salons, spas, and even in the offices of dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons.

Some cosmetologists choose to open their own salons, and some may work out of their own homes.

Answer 2

Cosmetology school is a must if you plan on becoming a professional in the beauty industry. Skills taught include hair dressing, manicuring, how to administer spa treatments, and how to manage equipment properly. Much of what you learn in cosmetology courses is based on practical skills that you will use each day in your career, and training often includes a wide range of hands-on activities to ensure you can provide services to clients efficiently.

Getting Started

To begin cosmetology school, you will need to have a high school diploma or a GED. You will also need to choose a school. Most communities have at least one local cosmetology training center, or you may be able to opt for an online school for your certification. Online courses provide you with the information you need to get started, while working with wigs, and eventually family and friends, will provide you with the hands-on experience you need.

Cosmetology school is the first step into a professional career. As a professional, you will need to be licensed within your state to provide services in a hair salon, whether working as a small business owner on your own or for another salon owner. Your license can be obtained after training is completed by making an appointment with the State Licensing Board where you live. In general, the State Licensing Board is only available in one or two cities per state, so you may need to travel for the test.

Earning Your Cosmetology License

You may also need to provide some of your own supplies, so make sure you understand the requirements before going to the test. For instance, hair dressers may need to bring a model that is willing to allow you to cut, color, or style their hair for the test. Other fields, such as manicurists, will also need to exhibit their working knowledge of the materials covered in cosmetology school, so make sure you have plenty of practice and training before scheduling the exam.