About Cosmetology School

A cosmetologist is anyone performing manicures, hair cutting, styling, shampooing, makeup or other cosmetology services. Hairstylist/Hairdresser, Manicurist/Pedicurist, and Shampooer are job titles that all fall under the umbrella of cosmetology although licensing and education requirements are different for each.

In order to work as a hairstylist or cosmetologist, one must be licensed by the state in which he or she wants to work. In order to become licensed one must have graduated from a state-licensed barber or cosmetology school and be at least 16 years old. Some states require graduation from high school while others require as little as an eighth grade education.

As hairstylists and cosmetologists become more experienced and gain a following, they can expect their earnings to increase. Some manage salons or decide to open their own. Others become sales representatives or image consultants. Some decide to teach in barber and cosmetology schools.
Did You know?

Overall employment of barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2010. People working in cosmetology held about 790,000 jobs in 2000.