Career Guide: Cosmetologist

Cosmetology is a broad term that is used to encompass a wide range of beauty mediums, including hair, skin, nails, and makeup. A cosmetologist is a beauty specialist who is educated in treating the hair, skin, and nails. A cosmetologist may care for a client, but may also consult with clients and offer suggestions regarding flattering hairstyles, skincare options, and the best colors and proper application of cosmetics. The specialist with advanced skills may also offer therapeutic treatments and massages, and advise a client in hygienic practices as well as hair, skin or nail care between visits to the salon. The cosmetologist chooses cosmetics that are appropriate for the client’s coloring and skin tone, and may apply them or teach the client how to do so. He or she may also shape, trim, pluck and color the eyebrows, or assist a client in the removal of unwanted facial hair. As for skin treatments, the cosmetologist is charged with selecting, applying or recommending a mask, anti-age creams, exfoliate and moisturizers that best suit the client’s needs. In the treatment of nails, a cosmetologist may clean the fingernails or toenails, treat cuticles, file and buff the nails, apply polish or apply artificial nails. He or she may also provide soaks or other treatments, such as conditioners or hardeners. Although considered an expert in the field of beauty, the cosmetologist may also be required to perform or share in less specialized duties. These may include care and cleaning of beauty implements and employee stations. He or she may also answer the phone, book appointments, file, keep records, order products and sign for deliveries.

About the Guide

This Career Guide provides guidance to people facing a variety of career challenges. These challenges may include dealing with redundancy, seeking a new job, changing careers, returning to work after a career break, building new skills, personal and professional development, going for promotion, and setting up a business. The common aim of the career guide, whatever the particular situation of the individual being guided, is normally to help that individual gain control of their career and, to some extent, their life. This comprehensive resource has been developed to provide you with a road map for your particular area of interest to shape the career as a Cosmetologist. Whether you are looking for that entry-level position, growing in your respective field, or making a career transition, the means to accomplish your goals are within this resource. The Career Guide looks at what a cosmetologist is, the roles and responsibilities they carry out and the essential qualities needed to succeed.