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Cosmetologist

© Archana Khambekar

While it is said that beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, a flattering hairstyle and the right touch of makeup can play up your best features to draw attention to them. The skilled hands of a cosmetologist can help achieve that look. Cosmetologists are trained professionals who possess an understanding of aesthetics, are versed in styling techniques and aware of current fashions. They are part of the salon industry and integral to the beauty business.

Essentially a cosmetologist is anyone performing manicures, hair cutting, styling, shampooing, makeup or other cosmetology services-- some of which you may have availed on a trip to your neighborhood beauty parlor. Going beyond this they advise clients on skin and hair care, choice of the right cosmetics, and makeup application. They also provide specialized services such as facials, hair and scalp treatments, full-body care, and head and neck massages. In other words they render personalized beauty care from head to toe.

While most beauticians are employed in beauty salons, spas, barber shops, or cosmetic department of stores, they are also hired by residential care facilities and photographic studios. Many cosmetologists are self-employed; they either open their own salon or lease a booth from the salon's owner. The other employment avenues include teaching at cosmetology schools, becoming a sales rep for cosmetics firms, serving as beauty or fashion consultant, or working as an examiner for State licensing boards.

One of the advantages of this occupation, especially true of those who work in beauty parlors, is a flexible work schedule with a significant proportion of cosmetologists working part time. At times they may be required to work in the evenings and on weekends to manage the clientele during busy periods. Like in any other business, the self-employed often put in longer hours. As for earnings potential of the profession, the income comes from a variety of sources. An employee may receive commissions on the price of the service provided or salary based on the number of hours worked, tips from clients and a percentage on the products they sell. In addition, some salons pay bonuses to employees who bring in new business.

So how do you get started in this line of work? A number of accredited schools offer full-fledged programs in cosmetology as well as shorter training curricula for manicurists, makeup specialists, aestheticians, and electrologists. A comprehensive program covers the techniques of haircutting, shaving, facials, and hair and scalp treatments, as well as the use and care of instruments, sanitation and hygiene, chemistry, basic anatomy and physiology. In addition you learn about client consultation, salesmanship, and general business practices, which are skills you can use in this profession. The classroom lectures are combined with supervised work in school clinics where you practice on customers. After graduating from a training program, students can take the State licensing examination that consists of a written test and, in some cases, a practical test of cosmetology skills.

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