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Degrees and Schools
Hairdresser and cosmetology training programs are available through most high schools and community colleges. Longer programs last up to nine months and some award an associates degree. States typically require successful completion of a state-approved postsecondary program. Many states approve schools that are accredited through the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences.
Classes
Courses for aspiring hairdressers and cosmetologists are usually geared towards preparing graduates for state licensure, and often include:
- Hair chemistry
- Extensions and braiding
- Applying permanent waves
- Applying color and foil
- Cleanliness and sanitation
- Haircutting techniques
- Maintenance and styling of wigs
- Facials and makeup
- Manicures and pedicures
- Advanced techniques for nails
- How to conduct personal appearance business
Online Classes and Programs
Due to the hands-on nature required for practical experience, there are just a few online degree programs for cosmetology and hairstyling. However individual online courses can supplement an on-campus education. Any program should meet the acceptance requirements of the state where the student intends to work and be part of an institution with accreditation from agencies approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or United States Department of Education (USDE).
Employment Requirements
A combination of a high school diploma or equivalent and a state license are the minimum requirements for most beginning hairdressers and cosmetologists. States typically require that personal appearance workers be graduates of state-approved cosmetology or barber schools, and pass written and practical exams. Additional state licensing exams can be taken in specific areas of interest such as manicuring, cosmetology, skin care and barbering.
How to Evaluate Hairdresser and Cosmetology Schools
Students assessing training programs in cosmetology and hairstyling may find asking the following questions helpful:
- State acceptability - Does the program meet requirements of the state, such as accreditation, where the student plans to seek employment?
- Focus and preparation - Are courses geared towards preparing the student for licensure in their state?
- Classes and subjects - Does demand for popular classes make them difficult to get into? Are classes available that support the student's interest in areas of specialty, such as manicuring and skin care?
- Financial aid and expenses - What resources are provided by the school to help students take advantage of student loans, scholarships and grants?
- Graduate success - What is the school's track record for graduates who obtained state licensure? How many of these graduates landed jobs?
Hairdresser or Cosmetologist Job Description
Personal appearance workers provide grooming, appearance enhancement, and treatments to promote well being for our bodies. Hairdressers cut, color, clean, style and maintain hair, wigs and hair pieces, and instruct patrons on how to care for their hair. Cosmetologists also provide these services, and in addition are sometimes trained to give scalp and facial treatments and massages, manicures, pedicures, and makeup analysis. Specific responsibilities include:
- Using shampoos, conditioners and setting products to clean and prepare hair for styling
- Applying hair color and permanent wave solutions
- Implementing braids and extensions
- Styling with wands, straighteners, trimmers and razors
- Using hair dryers, different types of brushes, and different kinds of scissors
- Knowing how to combine different implements to create the desired effect
- Being familiar with and trained in latest styles
- Providing instruction in the care of hair and scalp, and home styling
- Communicating well with customers to deliver according to highly-individualized expectations
- Keeping records of regular clients' hair color and skin care regimens
- Selling hair care products
Specialized services offered by cosmetologists include:
- Treating nails, cuticles and the skin of the hands and feet with cleansing solutions and polishes, nail extensions, buffing tools, and scissors or nippers
- Identifying disease conditions such as fungal infections or injuries
- Cleaning, beautifying and treating the skin with facials, head and neck massages, and full-body treatments
- Removing hair through waxing or laser treatments
- Applying makeup and instructing patrons in how to repeat the effect themselves
- Educating patrons in the care of their skin and nails
- Preparing performers and celebrities for appearances and work engagements by applying theatrical and performance makeup
Hairdressers and cosmetologists who work for themselves or own their own businesses may:
- Supervise, hire and fire employees
- Track inventory and order supplies and tools
- Keep business records and handle transactions
- Plan and order advertising and signage
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