Cosmetology Education

The services of a cosmetologist or beautician involves hair cutting and styling, pedicures and manicures and extensive wig treatments. The treatment options extend to hair and nail shaping, application of artificial nails and wigs hair removal and the application of chemical hair relaxers or straighteners. A cosmetologist also takes care of coloring and highlighting of hair and permanent or temporary hair extensions and treatments. A person who is licensed in cosmetology is called by many names - a cosmetologist, beautician or an aesthetician. He or she specializes in suggesting and applying beauty treatments. The overall endeavor is to offer every client, man or woman, the desired look and feeling of inner and outer wellbeing and beauty.

Different Types of Cosmeticians

There are specific disciplines of cosmetology and a student may choose one of the following to specialize in:

Hairstylist

Essentially, as the title suggests, a hairstylist specializes in the styling of hair. The duties performed and that which have to be learned via a dedicated stream of cosmetology education include hair cutting, application of various chemical perms, extensive use of relaxers and equipment available to style curls, waves and various color treatments. A shampoo technician is also a hairstylist and well versed in the application of special shampoos and conditioners to create a balanced haircare finish. The hairstylist is also equipped to handle effective dying, trimming, and straightening of hair.

Manicurist

This technician takes care of cosmetic beauty treatment and application of lotions and creams created specifically for the fingernails and hands. A manicurist is educated and equipped to handle filing, shaping of the nails and the application of the chosen polish. The manicurist takes care of everything, from soaking of the palms and wrists in a softening solution, to application of a conditioning lotion. The job profile also includes the application of artificial nail tips and acrylics and small decals or imitation jewels. A manicurist specializes in the art form and care of nails and is knowledgeable in nail irregularities and diseases.

Esthetician

This stream of cosmetology includes the extensive study of skin care. This is taken care of via dedicated body wraps and facials. The skin is also enhanced with skin-specific salt glows for exfoliation, hair removal and cosmetic make-up. Some estheticians also specialize in laser hair removal and resurfacing, microdermabrasion and treatments via chemical peels. An esthetician is expected to be well versed in anatomy and the functions of the skin.

Importance of Cosmetology-related Education

A cosmetologist is required to be licensed and qualifications for a license vary by state. Generally, a graduate from a state-licensed cosmetology school should pass a physical examination. The completion of an apprenticeship does at times substitute for graduation from a school, but a license is awarded only on passing a written test and demonstrating the ability to perform basic services. A cosmetologist is educated on sanitation practices and ethical practices. These are governed by the Board of Cosmetology. There are many private institutions that offer cosmetology education to high school students. Most cosmetologists are paid either by commission, a monthly fee or an hourly wage. Tips are another source of income. Skilled cosmetologists make a considerable portion of their income from tips.

Job Outlook

Overall employment of cosmetologists is projected to grow as fast as and as much as the average for all other occupations through 2014. A typical day in the life of a cosmetologist would include cutting and trimming of hair or tufts, applying bleaches, dyes and tints, setting wigs to style, massages and treatments for hygienic and remedial purposes and recommendation of cosmetics, lotions, and creams to lubricate skin and enhance appearance. A cosmetologist also shapes and colors eyebrows and eyelashes and updates customer information records. There is never a dull moment in the life of a cosmetologist and backed by certification for the education received, the technician's earning capacity and versatility is optimized.