Cosmetologists

Cosmetologists are people that make sure the appearance of their clients is good, or to their liking. Cosmetologists include everyone from hairdressers, to barbers, to manicurists. These people work in salons, beauty centers, and spas around the world. Today, different technical schools have a two year program to train to become a cosmetologist. Here the student takes classes on hair cutting and coloring, skin care, nail care, and makeup application. After they have graduated, or received a license to practice cosmetology, they can gain employment at a salon. Most cosmetologists are employed as hairdressers, or beauticians.

Hair Dressers and Hair Stylists

Cosmetologists working with hair are known as hair dressers, hair stylists, or even barbers. They are trained to practice the proper techniques for hair cutting and coloring. They can also style hair in a variety of ways. This job requires hand-eye coordination, as well as creativity. Some beauticians start out at larger salons as shampooers. Shampooers are people who shampoo a client's hair for the cosmetologist who will be cutting their hair. The beautician is aiming to please the needs of his or her client. Most people step into a hair salon with an idea in mind. Someone may request to have a mid-length hair cut, and a dark brown color. If the beautician cuts the hair too short and dyes it blond, the client will probably not be pleased.

Beauticians usually work a 40 hour week in privately owned, or commercial salons across the US. They are typically paid on an hourly basis, with the opportunity for tips. It is a common practice to tip your barber if he or she did a good job. Hair stylists are also employed by movies and TV shows to make sure the actors look good. These cosmetologists can make more money working with big name celebrities. The average pay for this job is around $10 dollars an hour, depending on the work place. Also, the type of place you work at also determines the types of tips you will receive. A salon at a spa or hotel will probably draw in a better client base than a small salon in a strip mall.