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What is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology is a growing industry and a great field to consider if you have a passion for all things beauty. Learn more about what to do to get started.

Cosmetologists offer more than just hair styling and cutting. Beauty schools can teach a variety of skills in skincare, nail care, and makeup application. Learn what it takes to become a part of the beauty industry and why a future in cosmetology might be right for you.

Have you ever considered becoming a part of the beauty industry? It continues to be a booming industry that offers a wide range of opportunities for those who are passionate about hair, makeup, and skincare. If you are into beauty, then you are most likely aware of cosmetology and what it has to offer.

Although hair and makeup are a huge part of cosmetology, there is a variety of skills that licensed cosmetologists acquire and can utilize in their profession. While the process of becoming a cosmetologist may seem daunting, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Learn more about what it takes to become a cosmetologist and what you can expect as a future beauty professional!

What Does a Cosmetologist Do?

Cosmetology is the study of hair styling, makeup application, nail care, and skincare. Cosmetologists are trained professionals who become skilled in these areas and can provide various services to clients to enhance their appearance. Cosmetology can vary in coloring, cutting, and styling hair, applying makeup for special occasions, giving manicures and pedicures, or even providing facial treatments.

Cosmetologists use tools and products to carry out these treatments and services. It is a popular career choice among those who are passionate about beauty and want to help others to look and feel their best. As a licensed cosmetologist, you may have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings and provide services that help others feel more confident and beautiful in their own skin.

Opportunities as a Cosmetologist

Cosmetologists work in various settings, but most are found working for spas, hair salons, or even running their own business. Some cosmetologists may even work for cruise ships, weddings, or TV and movie productions. Here are a few examples of career opportunities that a licensed cosmetologist can consider:

  • Hair Stylist: Style, cut, or color hair in a salon or spa
  • Makeup Artist: Apply makeup for special occasions such as weddings and photoshoots
  • Nail Technician: Provide nail care services such as pedicures and manicures
  • Esthetician: Provide skincare treatments such as hair removal services and facials
  • Salon Manager: Handle the operations of a salon including staff management, customer service, and finances
  • Beauty Educator: Become an instructor who teaches cosmetology courses at a beauty school
  • Freelance: Work independently and offer services to clients on a freelance basis
  • Product Sale Representative: Sales representatives for beauty products
  • Editor: Create and manage beauty content for publications or social media.

Cosmetology continues to grow and can offer exciting career paths to choose from.

How to Become a Cosmetologist in Texas

The first step to becoming a cosmetologist is to complete beauty school. Compared to a traditional four-year college, you can finish beauty school very quickly. However, every state has different requirements for cosmetology. Most states depend on the amount of hours that you complete in school. In the state of Texas you must complete at least 1,000 hours of instruction in an accredited beauty school.

Becoming a cosmetologist requires a great deal of dedication and passion for the beauty industry. During your training hours, you are required to learn all the skills it takes to become a beauty professional.

Some of these skills include more than just learning how to cut and style hair. Your training can include some nail care, skincare, and makeup training. It’s important to research your options and understand the steps you need to become licensed.

What Is Taught in Cosmetology School?

The curriculum of a cosmetology school can vary depending on the state and the specific school, but generally includes the following subjects:

  • Hair care: Hair cutting, styling, coloring, and chemical treatments such as perms and relaxers.
  • Skin care: Facials, waxing, and other skin treatments.
  • Nail care: Manicures, pedicures, and artificial nail techniques such as acrylic and gel nails.
  • Makeup artistry: This includes application techniques for different types of makeup, as well as color theory and facial anatomy.
  • Salon management: Business practices, customer service, and communication skills.
  • State regulations: Understanding the laws and regulations governing the cosmetology industry, including sanitation and safety procedures.
  • Chemistry: Learn all about the chemical properties of shampoos, conditioner, hair coloring, cosmetics, and more.

In addition to classroom instruction, cosmetology students typically have hands-on training in a school salon or spa, where they can practice their skills on real clients under the supervision of licensed instructors. After completing their training, students must pass a state licensing exam to become a licensed cosmetologist.

Start Your Cosmetology Journey Today!

If you are interested in becoming a cosmetologist, Natural Images Beauty College is a great place to start! Located in the Houston metropolitan area, you can schedule a beauty school tour at our campus located in Clute, Texas.

We offer programs in barbering, cosmetology, and esthetics. Contact our admissions office today and we can assist you in the enrollment process. Not sure if beauty school is right for you? Take our quiz!