What does a Cosmetologist do?
Cosmetologists are typically employed by beauty salons and spas. However, they are also employed to work at hotels and resorts, department stores and cruise ships. Cosmetologists can also be self-employed individuals who work on a contractual basis. They use their skills doing makeup and hair to help clients create the look they envisioned. Their job is to talk with clients about what they want and give them helpful tips about applying makeup, and skincare products. They may also offer hand and foot massages in addition to a manicure or pedicure appointment.
Cosmetologist skills and qualifications
Cosmetologists will need certain prerequisite skills or certifications, which include:
- Communication: Good communication skills are required to understand a client’s needs and preferences. Clients often describe what they want and what they do not want, and the ability to understand these requests is important when working as a Cosmetologist.
- Creativity: Cosmetologists will need a good amount of creativity. The cosmetology industry can be competitive, and the ability to be creative is crucial in retaining clients.
- Dexterity: Whether the Cosmetologist is cutting hair, shaving facial hair or waxing, good dexterity skills will lead to a satisfied client.
- Organization: Cosmetologists will often see multiple clients in one day. The ability to stay organized and manage time in an effective and productive way is crucial in this role.
Cosmetologist salary expectations
A Cosmetologist makes an average of $43,101 per year. Salary may depend on level of experience, education and the geographical location.
Cosmetologist salary expectations
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Common salary:
22.93 HOURLY -
Typical salaries range from
7.25 -58.40 HOURLY - Find more information on Indeed Salaries
*Indeed data –
Cosmetologist education and training requirements
A minimum of a high school diploma and the completion of a cosmetology program is required to work as a Cosmetologist. Each state has its own requirements, and aspiring Cosmetologists will need to complete these requirements which will usually include a certain number of hours and the successful completion of the state exam. Students will need to test for each type of cosmetology service they want to offer. Many Cosmetologists will receive hands-on training during their educational program. They may practice their cosmetology skills on fake hair or volunteer clients.
Cosmetologist experience requirements
Whether or not previous experience is required will depend on the needs of the salon. Some hiring managers may prefer to hire entry-level Cosmetologists who are newly licensed and then train them on their salon policies. Other hiring managers may prefer to hire Cosmetologists who have previous experience working in a salon and have already begun to build a client load. Some Cosmetologists will begin working as an assistant and then work their way up to a Cosmetologist position.
Job description sample for similar position
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