Hairstylist/Cosmetologist

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Work Tasks

• Shampoo, cut, and style hair
• Color, perm, and straighten hair
• Give advice on hair care and keep a record on each customer
• Give facials and manicures
• Work in beauty salons, stores, hotels, hospitals, or for themselves
• Use scissors, clippers, razors, brushes, hair lotions, dyes, wigs, and hairpieces

Salary, Size & Growth

• $37,500 average per year ($18.00 per hour)
• A large occupation (381,900 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow rapidly (2.1% per year)

Education/Training

• Minimum for Entry: On-the-job training and experience
• Employers Prefer: A diploma or certificate from a vocational or cosmetology school
• Skills/Courses: Courses include haircutting, facial massaging, hair and scalp treatments, and practical work on customers.
• Certification/Licensing: All states require hairstylists/cosmetologists to be licensed.