by Erin Botelho

Created on: November 16, 2008   Last Updated: November 20, 2008

Over the years the title "Beautician" has been replaced with the title "Licensed Cosmetologist". Today, cosmetology deals with much more than the typical haircuts and styling. In fact, most of today's cosmetologists must learn a little bit of everything that deals with the beauty industry. Hair styling, makeup, nail and skin care, infectious ailments and even managing your own business are just some of the lessons covered in most cosmetology schools. However, before you jump head first into this fast paced career, you might want to ask yourself if this is the right job for you. For some people it is the perfect job but for others it can be a nightmare! You should answer some of these important questions before making your decisions.

First things first. Do you have the time to pursue the education you need before you can become licensed? Most cosmetology schools run the course of about 6 months to a year. That's Monday - Friday, 6-8 hours a day. Some places do offer evening classes but they usually take longer to finish. They are also harder to find. This is because in most schools, you actually work on clients as part of your training. Depending on which state you in live in, you are required to have anywhere from 1200 - 2000 hours of training before you can take your state test. That is a lot of hours my friend!

Next thing you need to ask yourself is, do you have the money? Some schools do offer financial aid, but in a lot of cases you need to have the money up front. Not only do you have tuition and book costs, but you must also pay for the supplies you'll need while in school. We're talking makeup, scissors, hair accessories, nail accessories, lab coats, mannequin heads and the list goes on! Remember, you're going to learn a lot more than just styling hair! Starting off you can expect to pay anywhere from $1000 - $3000 dollars. Then you'll have all the little extras you'll pick up on the way. Once school is done then you have state testing fees. Here is a perk though, a lot beauty supply stores will give you a discount if you can prove you are in school or licensed.

This is probably the most important thing you'll need to ask yourself. "Do I really want to touch people?" I mean she hasn't washed her hair in over a week! I have to give a pedicure to those feet? I have to wax what!? Yes sometimes it can be nasty! Now there are things the school will teach you to make it less unpleasant. Sometimes you simply have to turn customers away. The majority of the time however, you're going to take a client. If you don't, the salon down the street will and you'll lose costumers and money. Most of the time you get used to such duties but for some people they just can't. Another important question to ask yourself is whether or not you can stand on your feet for 8 to sometimes 12 hours a day. If you run or work for a successful salon, there will be times when you might not get a break. Think of how many people run to salons for prom night or Christmas parties. You have to be able to keep up!

Most people who finish cosmetology school, only specialize in 1 or 2 things. There are schools you can go to that specialize in just one. Like skin care, or nail care. However if you're looking for a job in this field, I recommend cosmetology. You'll learn a little of everything and that can potenially mean more money for you! If this sounds like a job for you, go for it and have fun making people beautiful!

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