What Is Cosmetology and Why Study It? [Updated 2021]

If you have a passion for beauty and enjoy expressing your creativity, then a career in cosmetology might be the right for you. In cosmetology, you get to work with people, learn new skills, and show off your artistic talents each day.

But what is cosmetology exactly?

Cosmetology is a broad field encompassing many different beauty practices, such as hair styling and coloring, makeup artistry, nail care, and skincare. Thus, being a cosmetologist requires a great deal of patience, creativity, and attention to detail.

A future in cosmetology can allow you to meet new people each day, work flexible schedules, and even offer a high level of job security. Employment opportunities in cosmetology are expected to grow significantly over the next decade.

So, is cosmetology right for you? Here’s everything to know before you get started!

Consider Your Interests

Before you start pursuing a career in cosmetology, it’s important to ensure that your interests and personality are well-matched for this type of work.

Here are some qualities and characteristics that those in cosmetology typically possess:

Great People Skills

As a cosmetologist, you’ll be working with different people all day long. A friendly, outgoing personality can allow you to make each client feel comfortable and cared for from the moment they walk through your salon’s door. Additionally, if you can build a rapport with your customers and make them feel good about themselves, they will be more likely to return.

A Sense of Creativity

Cosmetologists spend a great deal of time creatively applying their products and practicing new techniques. So, if you’re someone who enjoys making things with your hands and using your imagination, then cosmetology might be a good fit for you.

Good Organizational Skills

Cosmetologists are also responsible for managing their time well. You’ll need to keep track of all your appointments and manage your schedule to meet deadlines and handle client requests.

Patience

As a cosmetologist, you may run into an unpleasant client from time to time. You’ll need to keep your cool and maintain your professionalism in these situations, which requires patience.

If you possess these qualities and traits, then you may be well suited for a cosmetology career – but let’s first look at what you’ll need to do before you begin working in this field.

How To Become a Licensed Cosmetologist

The first step towards becoming a licensed cosmetologist is to enroll in a state-accredited beauty school. Moler Beauty Academy meets the National Accrediting Commissions requirements as our curriculum meets their board cosmetology licensing exam standards.

Before you apply, you must understand that each state requires a certain amount of training hours before students take their licensing exam. For instance, students of our cosmetology program must complete Ohio’s requirement of 1,500 training hours before graduating and taking their exam.

During a cosmetology program, you will take courses in the following areas of beauty:

• Haircutting, styling, & coloring
• Eyelash Extensions
• Facials
• Makeup Application
• Waxing
• Manicures & Pedicures

 

At Moler Beauty Academy, our students will learn the theory behind these practices in the classroom. Then, they jump into practical, hands-on training on real clients – under the guidance of our professional instructors. By practicing with real clients in a salon environment, students gain valuable experience and insight for their future careers.

Learn About The Career Options

Your career can begin after you graduate from cosmetology school and pass the licensing exam. However, what types of jobs are available in the beauty industry?

Here are just a few of your possibilities:

Hair Stylist in a Salon

One of the more common careers people choose to pursue in cosmetology is working as a hairstylist in a salon. The salon environment attracts many different clients each day, so salon workers tend to make a steady income.

However, if you want to improve your standing in a salon, you’ll need to build a loyal clientele. To do this, you’ll need to provide superior results and excellent customer service.

Salon Owner or Manager

If you enjoy the idea of being your own boss and possess strong organizational skills, managing or owning a salon may be an excellent option for you.

Keep in mind that you may be responsible for hiring employees, payroll, and staying compliant with local laws as a salon manager or owner. All these functions require strong management skills and attention to detail, which you’ll have the chance to develop as a student at Moler Beauty Academy.

Freelancer or Agency Partner

You may also work as a stylist for special events by freelancing through an agency that notifies you of opportunities.

As a freelancer, you may work at events such as:

• Film, TV, & Advertisement sets
• Theatre productions
• Weddings
• Private parties

 

Nail Technician

Another popular career option for cosmetologists is to become a nail technician. Nail technicians typically work in salons and spas. However, some nail technicians choose to start their own business or work as freelancers.

To become a nail technician, you may need to complete additional training beyond cosmetology school – depending on your state’s requirements.

Ready to Get Started?

Moler Beauty Academy provides students with a comprehensive understanding of cosmetology theory and hands-on* beauty skills. From day one, we strive to create a learning experience that prepares our students for their future careers in cosmetology.

We invite you to schedule a tour today to learn more!*

*Financial aid is available to those who qualify.
*All services performed by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.