Cosmetology & Wellness Careers

Are you looking to become a cosmetologist or barber? Top beauty schools are looking for you!

What is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology includes a wide range of careers including hairstylist, hairdresser, nail technician, shampoo technician, skin care specialist, electrologist, and beauty therapist. It can include hair cutting and styling, coloring hair, facial massage, applying cosmetics, dressing wigs, manicures and pedicures, hair removal, skin care treatments, and more.

What Is the Difference Between a Barber and a Cosmetologist?

One of the main differences is that a barber is legally allowed to use a razor to cut facial hair and a cosmetologist is not. Cosmetologists also have more specialized training and the degree program is longer. Their study is also not just limited to hair, but includes skin and nails as well.

What Is an Esthetician?

An esthetician, also called a beauty specialist, performs spa treatments that focus on the deeper layers of the skin and body. Such treatments include facials, facial massage, waxing, microdermabrasion and light chemical peels.

What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Cosmetologist or Barber and What Is the Job Outlook for the Field?

Cosmetologists and barbers work in a creative and flexible environment where they build relationships with clients and earn good money. There is very little unemployment in the field and trends show that this is a career that is growing faster than many other occupations. As you improve your skills and grow your clientele, you can expect your earnings to increase. Cosmetology training can prepare you to work in a salon or spa, or even to open your own salon, become your own boss and create your own schedule.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Cosmetologist or Barber?

Careers in the beauty industry require a state license, but training and requirements vary from state to state. Most require training from a state-licensed beauty school and usually take approximately nine months to a year to complete. Training programs to become a manicurist or barber are not quite as long. To obtain a license, a student must also complete a written test and demonstrate the ability to perform basic skills.

How Can I Get Started?

Check out this list of the best beauty schools and narrow your search based on where you want to go to school. Do you want to attend one of the top cosmetology schools or do you need to stay within a particular state? Follow the links for the schools you’re interested in to request more information and you’re on a way to great new career!

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The salary range for Cosmetology & Wellness begins around $23,150 and usually tops out around $40,580, with a mean in the neighborhood of $31,865. This is about 36% lower than the national average for annual salaries.

In order to qualify for most Cosmetology & Wellness positions, you typically need to have a Certification or higher.

Data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics

The growth outlook for Cosmetology & Wellness careers is estimated at about 20% while the estimated growth for all career fields over that same span is at about 10.12%. Over the next six years, Cosmetology & Wellness jobs are expected to grow at a 98% higher rate than the national average for annual salaries.