Cosmetologists are professionals with expertise in diverse beauty treatments and services. They use their expertise to provide clients with a complete beauty experience, including hair styling, nail care, and skin treatments.
Just because traditional college isn’t for you doesn’t mean getting an education can’t happen. Consider these five reasons why cosmetology school might be a good fit for you:
Be Your Boss
Cosmetologists are often self-employed and have their own salons. They also may take on project-based work such as hair and makeup for television and film companies, theatre and dance groups, modeling agencies, and photographers.
Cosmetology students learn how to perform cosmetic treatments on the hair, nails, and skin. It includes cutting, styling, and coloring hair; nail care, including manicures and pedicures; non-permanent hair removal methods such as waxing, facials, and spa treatments; makeup
applications; and other beauty services. Cosmetology students typically need strong attention to detail and good hand-eye coordination to provide these services. In addition, they often must stand for long periods and may need to bend, reach, and twist their bodies as they work with scissors, combs, and other tools.
Learn at Your Own Pace
It’s impossible to discuss cosmetology without mentioning the impact of products designed specifically for Black women.
At a good cosmetology school, you’ll get plenty of hands-on experience working with real clients under the guidance of experienced educators. It ensures you have all the practical skills you need to thrive in the salon world.
The best cosmetology schools have dedicated instructors who care about their students. They’ll be there to support you and inspire you every step of the way. However, remember that Rome wasn’t built in a day, so be patient and keep practicing your craft!
Meet New People
Cosmetology is an exciting career field that consistently introduces new styles, techniques, and trends. It’s a great way to meet people, especially if you enjoy socializing.
Cosmetologists must be creative and adapt to each client’s unique style and hair or skin care needs. They also need to be good at problem-solving when faced with challenges such as demanding clients or technical issues. Many cosmetologists must perform clerical tasks, such as scheduling, rescheduling, canceling appointments, and accepting customer payments.
Build a Portfolio
A portfolio (also known as a professional portfolio or career portfolio) is an effective way to bundle all of your work accomplishments, skills, and education into one attractive package. It can help future clients see that you are the right fit for their needs.
When building a cosmetology portfolio, including various styles and cuts is essential. It lets you showcase your versatility and show you are a well-rounded stylist.
If you attend a beauty school that encourages hands-on learning, take every opportunity to snap photos of your work. These can later be used in your online portfolio. Be sure to add client testimonials and five-star reviews to your portfolio. These can be an invaluable tool to get you that next job!
Get a Job
Cosmetology is an expansive field. There are many opportunities in salons and spas to perform hair, nail, and skin services. Still, there are also jobs in fashion (like styling models for photoshoots) and in mortuaries (where makeup artists do the faces of the recently deceased).
Cosmetologists who work in a salon may be employees or booth renters. Employees collect an hourly salary plus tips and are supplied with all supplies by the salon. Booth renters pay hourly to use a chair and provide their products.
You can also work as a Professional, traveling to other salons to educate service providers on new techniques and trends. Or you can be a freelance stylist or open your salon.