Is cosmetology a good career? While many Americans suffer from cubicle-related job burnout, cosmetologists are carving out satisfying, flexible careers. Cosmetologists are also looking at a bright future. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the outlook on job growth for cosmetologists over the next decade is projected to grow 7 percent. Almost everyone has visited a barber, hair stylist, nail technician, or other cosmetologist. However, the scope of this job role is a mystery for the average person. So, what does a cosmetologist do?
What Does a Cosmetologist Do?
Cosmetologists are trained and licensed to offer a wide variety of services. In some cases, cosmetologists become “generalists” capable of providing full-service salon experiences to their clients. In other instances, cosmetologists decide to become specialists who focus on offering a single service they might enjoy. Here’s a look at the most common services provided by cosmetologists.
Hair Cutting
Hairdressers and barbers are licensed cosmetologists. These are professionals who have decided that their passion rests in cutting hair. Of course, some stylists prefer combining cutting with coloring, highlights, and other hair-related services.
Hair Styling
Cosmetologists who focus on styling are often the go-to professionals when clients want to achieve complicated, high-style looks. They can assist with long-term styles, including braiding, straightening treatments, extensions, and weaves. They also style clients’ hair for special occasions. For example, many stylists advertise their services for weddings and prom season.
Hair Coloring
Also known as colorists, cosmetologists who specialize in hair coloring are true color experts. Like all licensed cosmetologists, they have undergone extensive training on color matching, coloring products, chemical mixing, and safety. They can help clients conceal greys, change their hair color, add highlights and lowlights, or correct dye jobs that went wrong due to user error or inferior products.
Shampooing
Cosmetologists are truly full-service specialists. They are trained in shampooing techniques to prepare hair for cutting, coloring, and styling. Additionally, they are product experts. That means that their clients can come to them with questions about the best shampoos, conditioners, and styling products for their hair needs. Cosmetologists understand how different ingredients work together to create results for various hair types. Many cosmetologists who go on to open their salons and spas will form relationships with shampoo brands and vendors to sell trusted products directly to their clients.
Nail Care
Did you know a cosmetology diploma and licensing are necessary to offer manicures and pedicures? Many cosmetologists work exclusively on nails due to the high demand for this service. Having a cosmetology license to open a nail salon is also essential.
Skin Care
Cosmetologists also spend a portion of their training learning about skin health, which is why they can offer cleansing and beautification services for the skin. Additionally, cosmetologists often provide professional makeup applications for special occasions.
How Do You Become a Cosmetologist?
All licensed cosmetologists must complete a diploma program at a vocational school. A cosmetology program is an intensive experience that provides a future cosmetologist with the skills and hands-on experience they need to begin working directly with clients. Students can explore their passions and build on their natural talents while learning industry-approved techniques and protocols. Of course, a cosmetology program is more than just an excellent way to learn the skills you need. A cosmetology diploma is a legal requirement for working as a cosmetologist. Even entrepreneurs who wish to open a salon or spa using a more hands-off approach still need licensed cosmetologists to be business owners in this industry.
The Benefits of Attending a Vocational School for a Cosmetology Diploma
Cosmetology programs put aspiring professionals under the wings of highly experienced and accomplished cosmetologists. The diploma program at Meridian College offers a complete curriculum that covers every aspect of building skills, following state and federal standards, managing the business side of the salon industry, and more. Classic “book learning” is one aspect of a cosmetology degree program. However, the element that makes Meridian College, unlike any other educational experience, is that students enjoy hands-on training and guidance from instructors. They learn while doing. A cosmetology diploma gives a student the preparation they need for the state licensing boards required following graduation. Additionally, cosmetology programs offer strong support for finding a job after graduation.
Students who enroll in the Cosmetology program at Meridian College can enjoy a real-world training experience on campus. We operate an esteemed student-run hair salon that provides our students with real-world training with real customers. Using what they’ve learned from classroom training and lectures, students work on real clients while still under the watchful eye of attentive instructors. In addition, this salon offers opportunities to master beauty and wellness techniques for hair, skin, and nails. This experience is exactly what students need to obtain entry-level positions at hair salons and barbershops. Whether you’re looking forward to becoming employed as a cosmetologist or running your beauty salon, Meridian College offers suitable courses that will prepare you for success.
Want to Learn More?
Are you ready to enjoy the many opportunities available in cosmetology? Meridian College offers a Cosmetology training program in Florida that prepares you to deliver high–quality beauty and hair services to both men and women. Their hands–on Cosmetology training program gives you the skills you need to start an exciting career and become a leader in the beauty industry.