The Make-Up of Cosmetology School: Why Professional Training Is Key

By Patricia Cecil-Reed

You consider yourself an expert on fashion and style. Maybe you are the one your friends turn to for make-up tips, to style their hair for an important event, or to give them an honest appraisal of their latest look. You've probably considered going pro, but if you want to be a star, consider cosmetology school first.

Whether you dream of becoming a hair stylist, make-up artist, skin care specialist or nail technician, cosmetology school can prepare you to enter the world of working cosmetology professionals with confidence.

Why Beauty College? Feel Good about Helping Others Feel Beautiful

Becoming a well-rounded cosmetologist is a key goal of a beauty school education. In cosmetology school, not only will you learn to develop your passions and creativity, but you will learn the business and marketing ends of the professional beauty industry.

Cosmetology school programs usually last from 9 to 24 months, and cover all the basics and specialties of the fields of hairdressing, make-up and skin care, and other beauty areas such as nail care. Hairstyling and cosmetology programs may take more time to complete than programs like nail technology and esthetics. The kind of education you commonly get may also differ with specialty; some hairstylists can earn an associate's degree, for example, while a manicurist may earn a certificate or diploma.

Cosmetology Schools Let You Specialize

Skin care specialists, also called estheticians, may learn how to give facials, head and neck massages, different techniques for applying make-up, and various full-body skin treatments in their quest to beautify skin.

Aspiring hair care professionals can learn the basics of cutting and shampooing, along with hair coloring and styling techniques. Hair stylists may also specialize in giving manicures and pedicures, scalp and facial treatments, or any of a wide range of specialized services.

Nail technicians learn the fundamentals and fancy footwork of giving manicures and pedicures, nail extensions, and applying nail art, while make-up artists learn to perfect their craft for screen, stage, or everyday or special occasions.

Cosmetology: Practice Makes Perfect

All states in the U.S. require licensure for beauty professionals. Cosmetology school is geared towards knowing and acing the exams that will allow you to work as a beauty professional. In fact, most employers and licensing boards require some formal training or a degree or certificate from a licensed cosmetology school.

An extra advantage for cosmetology school students: In many states, cosmetology training can be credited towards your additional licensure requirements. Simply put, the hours you put into your cosmetology training could pay off doubly if you decide to add another specialty to your beauty arsenal.

Beauty and Hair: Fringe Benefits

Many beauty professionals list work and creative freedom as a big personal reward of the job. Almost half of all cosmetologists, hairdressers, and other beauty professionals are self-employed, and flexible scheduling is another attractive feature of the field.

Whatever your area of interest, you're sure to find inspiration, experience, and like-minded individuals at beauty college. Start your own fulfilling career now by enrolling in cosmetology school today.

 

Source

About the Author
Patricia Cecil-Reed is a writer based in Brooklyn, NY. She holds a B.A. in Literature from Sarah Lawrence College.

Featured Schools

American Institute School of Wellness and Beauty

Request Info

Boost your career with training from the American Institute School of Wellness and Beauty.

Campus Locations:
  • Pompano Beach
Programs:
  • Cosmetology
Southern Careers Institute

Request Info

Get your career on the right track with Southern Careers Institute.

Campus Locations:
  • San Antonio
  • Corpus Christi
  • Brownsville
Programs:
  • Cosmetology Operator - Evening
  • Cosmetology Operator - Day
The Studio Academy of Beauty

Request Info

If you are looking for a multi-faceted and dynamic education in the beauty industry then look no further. The Studio Academy of Beauty is focused on your career.

Campus Locations:
  • Chandler
  • Phoenix
Programs:
  • Cosmetology
  • Esthetics
Florida College of Natural Health

Request Info

Prepare for a Massage Therapy or Skin Care Career That You Will Love!

Campus Locations:
  • Maitland
  • Pompano Beach
  • Bradenton
  • Miami
Programs:
  • Advanced Paramedical Skin Care Program
  • Skin Care and Electrology Training Program
Florida Career College

Request Info

Train for the real-world skills that help you launch a successful technology or healthcare career with a degree, or diploma from Florida Career College.

Campus Locations:
  • Miami
  • Clearwater
  • Boynton Beach
  • West Palm Beach
  • Hollywood
Programs:
  • Diploma - Cosmetology
  • Diploma - Skin Care Specialist
Milan Institute

Request Info

Prepare for an exciting new career at the Milan Institute.

Campus Locations:
  • Bakersfield
  • Nampa
  • Clovis
  • San Antonio
  • Boise
Programs:
  • Cosmetology
  • Esthetician
Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute

Request Info

Compete in today's job market with training from Ridley-Lowell Business & Technical Institute.

Campus Locations:
  • Poughkeepsie
  • Binghamton
Programs:
  • Cosmetology
  • Esthetics