Since the dawn of civilization, human beings have given preference to one very important aspect of one’s life style; one’s appearance.
No matter what color, caste or creed we belong to; the need and desire to enhance our outer shell has always been of utmost importance. Around 3150 BC a civilization coalesced along the lower reaches of River Nile, the Egyptians were the first to use natural products in order to beautify their outer looks in about 4000BC. Kohl a compound made up of lead, copper, burned almonds and soot was extensively used by Egyptians as eye makeup that they believe helped in warding off the evil spirits and improve the eye eight, just an example of the earliest forms of cosmetology.

What is cosmetology
This simple innate protocol of humans to enhance their appearance has turned into a science itself, the science where one studies and applies beauty treatments; titled ‘Cosmetology’.
The field of Cosmetology offers a range of specialties ranging from aromatherapy, skin care, cosmetics, manicures/pedicures, and electrology. Barbers and hair stylists are also associated with cosmetology.
Standard Careers
There are four standard careers when it comes to cosmetology:
- Hair stylists use their expert performance in hair cutting, coloring and styling to change a client’s hairstyle into a stunning success.
- Makeup artists are responsible for makeup on special occasions like weddings, dinner parties, proms or photo shoots.
- Nail Technicians are accountable for giving clients indulgent manicure and pedicures.
- Estheticians treat and pamper a clients valued skin with facials and other skin care products that are customized according to the client’s specific requirements.
Educational Requirements
When one intends to pursue a career in cosmetology, one must attend a state licensed cosmetology school. The eligibility to attend a cosmetology school is at least a high school diploma or equivalence. This course of study is normally completed in a span of nine months to a year, with a final cosmetology practical portraying your practical skills for this field. If you do not wish to take up cosmetology as a whole subject, a number of schools also offer certificate courses in specific areas such as hair styling alone as oppose to a general cosmetologist.
Online Cosmetology Careers
Online cosmetology courses are available for those who wish to become fashion and beauty oriented but do not have the sufficient time to go out and instead decide on for the distance-learning approach. Online cosmetology schools are very convenient, they offer complete package with knowledge and skills of this growing industry.
Other Requirements
Hair stylists, hair dressers, cosmetologists excluding shampooers must take a state – administered licensing exam upon completing a state – approved training program. Cosmetology schools regularly assign classroom hours toward licensing exams.
With a limited number of stations per salon, the field of cosmetology can be cut-throat, one must therefore create a professional resume that both strikes with the employer as well as highlight one’s career goals and prospective.
Earnings
Factors like location, clientele, caliber of the establishment and skill of the individual can readily affect the salaries of cosmetologists. In general a cosmetologist can earn from
40,000 USD to 60,000 USD per year.
Opting for Cosmetology
There can be many reasons, as to why one should go for this particular field but a few eye openers could be as follows:
- Cosmetology is composed of many assorted sub-sectors giving you an option to switch your specialization easily without any hassle or extra study time.
- It’s an international applicable and functional field, no matter where you go, where you live, this work can be found in all corners of the world.
- In simple words, cosmetology is a very colorful field, gives you a chance to contribute your part in reviving the world and its people. If you are obsessed with beauty then this is the perfect profession for you.
- Not to mention, a chance for you to learn new cultures, customs, traditions and ethnicities when dealing with new clients every day.
- Being a cosmetologist gives you time flexibility, you can take appointments at various times throughout the day aiding you in carrying on with your personal affairs.
- With years of experience under your belt, you can easily run your business, establishing your own salon and giving out orders.
Downfall
Like every other picture, cosmetology too has its dark side; following are a few disadvantages of being a cosmetologist:
- With so much of physical work, cosmetologists often face severe body aches and stress related issues.
- It’s a low pay starting out profession.
- It’s normally a competitive environment when you are looking for a position after your graduation.
Job outlook|
According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, the job outlook for hair stylists is expected to increase by 12% by 2016. The job outlook for makeup artists is expected to increase by 40% in that same time frame; 34% for estheticians; and 28% for nail technicians.
