Cosmetology Education and Training

With the exceptions of makeup artists and shampooers, every barber, cosmetologist, and other personal appearance worker is required to be licensed. To qualify for a license, most job seekers are required to graduate from a State-licensed barber or cosmetology school.

Education and training

Most States require that barbers and cosmetologists complete a program in a State-licensed barber or cosmetology school. Both high schools and in public or private postsecondary vocational schools are offering the variety of programs in hairstyling, skin care, and other personal appearance services. But some States require a high school diploma or GED for some personal appearance workers.

The training for manicurists and pedicurists and skin care specialists requires significantly less time than the full-time programs in barbering and cosmetology which usually last 9 months and may lead to an associate degree. Make up artists are not required to finish a program that specialize in this subject but they can attend if they want. Shampooers generally do not need formal training. Most professionals take advanced courses in hairstyling to keep up with the latest trends. They also may take courses in sales and marketing.

The new workers may be given relatively simple tasks during their first weeks on the job. After they have proved their skills, they are permitted to perform more complicated procedures, such as coloring hair. As they continue to work in the area, more training usually is needed to help workers study the techniques particular to each salon and to build on the basics learned in cosmetology school. Personal appearance workers attend training at salons, cosmetology schools, or industry trade shows throughout their careers.

Advancement

Barbers and cosmetologists advance with the gained experience and a steady clientele. Some barbers and cosmetologists teach in barber or cosmetology schools or provide training through vocational schools. Others manage salons, lease booth space in salons, or open their own salons after several years of experience. Still others attend trainings to become image or fashion consultants, sales representatives, or examiners for State licensing boards.