The business of beauty has always been a lucrative industry. Not only are we seeing a surge in people wanting to look beautiful, but more and more people are finding the beauty in creating beauty as well, and that’s why more people are searching for careers in cosmetology.
Now, cosmetology is a pretty broad field that encompasses a wide range of different professions. It’s definitely a great specialty to have if you’re unsure which area of cosmetology you want to specialize in. But the one thing that will be required in a career in cosmetology, no matter the area, is meeting the cosmetology continuing education requirements as well as any necessary licensing requirements.
Requirements for each area of cosmetology varies but before you can take on any clients, you must meet all requirements first. Once you have all the necessary licensures and certifications, you can begin taking clients in the following cosmetology career areas.
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Top Career Opportunities in Cosmetology
Electrologist
Electrology is one of those minor cosmetic procedures that more people are opting for these days. Electrology is the practice of electrical hair removal, and as an electrologist, you’ll be using electrolysis to permanently remove hair from your clients’ bodies. Electrolysis uses electric currents to eliminate hair tissues.
Most electrologists start out working in salons, spas, and dermatology offices but once they establish a sizable customer base, they eventually branch out to start their own business.
Salon Manager
For every spa, barbershop, and beauty shop, there is always going to be a salon manager behind it overseeing the operations. As a salon manager, you’re going to be making sure the establishment is being run efficiently, finances are handled correctly, policies are being followed, and clients are happy… and that’s just a few of the day-to-day responsibilities you’ll have.
In addition to that, you’ll also be responsible for making sure the business is operating and in full compliance with local and state laws and that all employees’ licenses are up-to-date. You’ll also be the one over the hiring, coaching, and termination of employees as well.
Nail Technician
Nail technicians typically enjoy working with their hands, are very creative, and are “people persons.” They also have a steady hand. As a nail technician, you will be performing general services like manicures/pedicures, acrylics/dips, trims, and polishes. For clients that like out-of-the-box creations, you’ll be putting your creativity to the test to create works of art through nail artistry.
The great part about nail technicians is that there is a wide array of establishments that you can work in. If you enjoy traveling, you can provide services on a cruise ship. But for a more traditional setting, you can work in country clubs, resorts, spas, malls, and you can also open your very own nail beauty bar. Your options are limitless!
Makeup Artist
As a makeup artist, your sole responsibility is to enhance the appearance of your clients by minimizing flaws with cosmetic products all while highlighting their natural skin tones and features. Most makeup artists work for themselves as freelance workers. It’s not uncommon to see makeup artists become beauty vloggers giving at-home makeup tips and tutorials. They typically promote their services at the end of their videos.
So if you’re someone who has always loved playing around in makeup, you can transform your passion into a lucrative business. Consider offering your services for weddings, photoshoots, prom, and other special event occasions.
Is a Career in Cosmetology Right For You?
There are many more career opportunities in cosmetology not listed here, like cosmetology instructors, massage therapists, and estheticians. Some of the responsibilities in each role are similar to others while some differ significantly, but the main thing is determining if any of these areas of cosmetology is right for you.
If you’re considering cosmetology, it’s important you know that it is a lucrative industry but it doesn’t always start out that way. According to payscale.com, the average hourly rate in cosmetology starts around $10.63 per hour. Now, this dollar amount varies depending on which area of cosmetology you go in.
The more experience you have, the sooner you can charge higher prices for your services. Also, once you start keeping your certifications renewed and engage in continued education, the prices of your services can increase as well because you’re enhancing your skills, and people are willing to pay more for quality when the work and services are good.
But this isn’t a jump decision to make. As mentioned before, this is a lucrative industry but you will not only need the credentials to have a career in cosmetology, you’ll also need the passion and desire as well. Make sure this is the career for you.
