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Programs in Cosmetology, Nail Technician, Barber/Styling.
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Become a Professional Makeup Artist by Attending Beauty School

Beauty may lie in the eye of the beholder, but the skilled hands of a cosmetologist can help. Cosmetologists are trained professionals who possess an understanding of aesthetics, are versed in styling techniques and aware of current fashions. They are part of the salon industry and integral to the beauty business. Cosmetology schools can help you enter this exciting profession...

Essentially a cosmetologist is anyone performing manicures, hair cutting, styling, shampooing, makeup or other cosmetology services. They also advise clients on skin and hair care, choice of cosmetics, and makeup application. Specialized services such as facials, hair and scalp treatments, full-body care, and head and neck massages are also provided by cosmetologists.

While most beauticians or makeup artists are employed in beauty salons, spas, barber shops, or cosmetic department of stores, they are also hired by residential care facilities and photographic studios. Many cosmetologists are self-employed; they either open their own salon or lease a booth from the salon's owner. Other employment opportunities include teaching at cosmetology schools, becoming a sales rep for cosmetics firms, or serving as beauty or fashion consultant.

How to Get Started
Accredited cosmetology schools offer programs to become a makeup artist as well as training curricula for manicurists, makeup specialists, aestheticians, and electrologists. A comprehensive program (usually lasting 9 to 24 months) covers the techniques of haircutting, shaving, facials, and hair and scalp treatments, as well as the use and care of instruments, sanitation and hygiene, chemistry, basic anatomy and physiology. In addition students learn about client consultation, salesmanship, and general business practices. Experienced barbers and cosmetologists may take advanced courses in hairstyling, coloring, and the sale and service of hairpieces.

After graduating from a training program, students can take the State licensing exam. All States require cosmetologists, and most other personal appearance workers to be licensed. While qalifications vary, generally a person must have graduated from a State licensed, accredited or certified cosmetology school or college and be at least 16 years old. Some States require a high school diploma while others require as little as an eighth-grade education. Completion of an apprenticeship can in some cases substitute for graduation from a school. Applicants for a license usually are required to pass a written test and demonstrate an ability to perform basic barbering or cosmetology services.

Cosmetology Job Market
The demand for cosmetologists is expected to grow about 10 to 20 percent over the next decade. As a qualified makeup artist you can look forward to good job prospects in part due to rising incomes, greater customer demand for cosmetic services and a high employee turnover rate. In recent years the growing popularity of spa salons that offer massages and a range of beauty treatments has also created a need for trained cosmetology professionals.

What Does it Take to Be Successful?
Cosmetology is a profession requiring tact and diplomacy in dealing with patrons. Cosmetologists are intensely people-oriented and must be able to inspire the confidence of those they service. With an emphasis on personalized care and services, cosmetologists must understand the individual characteristics of their clients to be able to chose the hair styles and makeup colors and tones that are uniquely suited to them.

Successful personal appearance workers should have an understanding of fashion, art, and technical design. They should enjoy working with the public and be willing and able to follow clients’ instructions. Communication, image, and attitude play an important role in career success. Some cosmetology schools consider “people skills” to be such an integral part of he job that they require coursework in this area. Business skills are also important for those who plan to operate their own salons.

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