A cosmetologist is anyone performing manicures, hair
cutting, styling, shampooing,
makeup or other cosmetology services. Hairstylist, hairdresser, manicurist, pedicurist, and shampooer are job titles that all fall under the
umbrella of cosmetology although licensing and training requirements are different for each. In order to
work as a hairstylist or cosmetologist, one must be licensed by the state in which he or she wants to
work. In order to become licensed one must have graduated from a state-licensed barber or cosmetology school and be at least 16 years old. Some states require graduation from
high school while others require as little as an eighth grade
education. Some states allow completion of an apprenticeship as a substitute for graduation from a school.
Those who apply for a license usually are required to
pass a written test and demonstrate an ability to perform basic barbering or cosmetology services. As hairstylists and cosmetologists become more experienced and gain a following, they can expect their earnings to increase. Some manage salons or decide to open their own. Others become sales representatives or image consultants. Some decide to teach in barber and cosmetology schools.
On a typical day a cosmetologist might perform some of the following duties, depending on his or her specialization:
* Cuts, trims and shapes hair or hair pieces
* Bleaches, dyes, or tints hair
* Combs, brushes, and sprays hair or wigs to
set style
* Attaches
wig or hairpiece to model
head and dresses wigs and hairpieces
* Massages and treats scalp for hygienic and remedial purposes
* Administers therapeutic medication and advises patron to seek medical treatment for
chronic or contagious scalp conditions
* Recommends and applies cosmetics, lotions, and creams to patron to soften and lubricate
skin and enhance and restore
natural appearance
* Shapes and colors eyebrows or eyelashes and removes facial hair
* Cleans, shapes, and polishes fingernails and toenails
* Updates and maintains customer information records, such as beauty services provided.
Median Hourly Wages depend entirely on how many hours that person works, tips, commissions, etc.
