Cosmetology: Facts & Figures
By Caitlin ChandlerIf you're interested in cosmetology, here are some intriguing facts about the world of hair, makeup, and skin care that might provide insight into your future career.
- Working in cosmetology can mean being your own boss. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 48 percent of cosmetology workers are self-employed.
- The spa industry is expanding rapidly to include more holistic services. The International Spa Association reports an in-house yoga program is one of the newest additions to many spas that are seeking to help customers combat lingering physical ailments during their visits.
- Hairstylists and beauticians can often donate crucial services to charities. The "Hairdressers Unlocking Hope" campaign, spearheaded by Mary Rector-Gable and Vidal Sassoon, has galvanized the cosmetology business to raise more than $2 million to help construct homes for Hurricane Katrina survivors.
- Makeup artists aren't just limited to painting pretty faces. Films need a bevy of horror makeup artists to create gaping wounds and ugly bruises on film stars.
- The field of organic hair, skin, and beauty product is also booming. Americans spent $350 million on organic personal care products in 2006, according to the Organic Trade Association.
- A license issued by your state of residence is required for barbers, cosmetologists, and most other beauty workers. Upon graduation, an accredited cosmetology school can help you obtain a license.
- The opening of new nail salons and full-service spas to meet public demand is expected to generate numerous job openings in the next several years, according to the BLS.
- If you have a passion for writing but also want to pursue cosmetology, consider writing a blog. Many hairstylists and makeup artists now have blogs and Web sites where they answer questions and reveal trade secrets to arriving at the perfect look for any occasion.
Sources:
Daily Herald
Indiana Student Daily, Make-up artist shares his scary techniques today at free workshop
Kaiser Family Foundation
Newswire Today
New York Times, Natural, Organic Beauty
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Caitlin L. Chandler is a Project Officer at the Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDS. She is the former editor of Brownstone Magazine, and her writing has appeared in the Village Voice and the Washington Square News. She received an honors B.A. in comparative literature and history from New York University.
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