7 Careers You Can Have As A Cosmetologist

If you’re a creative individual with a passion for helping others look their best, becoming a licensed cosmetologist can open doors to a variety of careers. The field of cosmetology includes a range of services to help customers look and feel their best. While meeting the education requirements to get your cosmetology license in Utah, you’ll learn an array of treatments and services that can be applied in different professions in the beauty industry. If you’re wondering about potential careers after you get your cosmetology license, explore the options below to learn just a few paths you can embark upon in the cosmetology profession.

1. Hairstylist

A professional hair stylist is responsible for cuts, coloring, texture changes, and styles to help your clients get a hairstyle they love. You’ll need to keep up with the latest trends in hair fashion and have an eye for how different hairstyles complement various face shapes and features. In the work environment, you’ll handle chemicals and perform a range of tasks with tools and equipment. Skills you’ll need as a hairstylist include:

• Creativity
• Patience
• Precision
• Communication
• Knowledge of hairstyling/cutting methods and tools

2. Makeup Artist

A professional makeup artist uses cosmetics to help clients achieve the look they want for special occasions, photo shoots, work-related events, etc. In this role, you’ll use your knowledge of color and artistry to choose products that enhance your customers’ natural appearance and align with clothing and the occasion. You may work in various environments including photo shoots and event settings. Makeup artists use a range of skills including:

• Knowledge of makeup techniques and products
• Education about how different colors complement varied skin tones
• Creativity
• Current trends
• Use of aesthetics and special effects

3. Nail Technician

A professional nail technician or manicurist focuses on nail health and design to enhance the appearance of nails with shape, color, and treatments. You’ll perform services that range from basic nail care and natural manicures to intricate designs that feature exotic nail art and dramatic lengths and shapes. Manicurists work with a range of tools, polishes, and products like acrylics and gels. As a nail technician, you may work in a nail salon, spa, on-site environment, photo shoots, and more.

Skills required for manicurists include:

• Creativity and artistry
• Knowledge of how to adapt nail designs to clients’ lifestyles
• Excellent communication
• Precision
• Knowledge of nail health and hygiene

4. Salon Owner

Your education as a cosmetologist will include business qualifications that may inspire you to open your own business and oversee services performed by other cosmetology professionals. As a salon owner, you’ll be responsible for ensuring your salon, spa, or barbershop is running efficiently and customers are delighted with the services they’re provided. You’ll also be required to ensure the business complies with state regulations and that all staff members are properly licensed. You’ll need a range of skills for this position, including:

• Delegation skills
• Financial knowledge
• Customer service expertise
• Knowledge of a wide range of cosmetology services
• Accounting and marketing skills

5. Beauty Educator

If you’re passionate about sharing your industry knowledge, you can use your cosmetology license to educate others. As a beauty educator, you’ll help budding cosmetologist learn their chosen profession, determine the right career path, hone their skills, and meet the educational and licensing requirements to serve customers. You may work in a beauty school, nail school, spa management, workshops, etc. You may even extend your expertise to opening your own beauty school to provide education for new students. Skills required for a beauty educator include:

• Communication skills
• Extensive knowledge of methods, techniques, and tools used in the cosmetology industry
• Teaching strategies
• Passion for mentoring eager learners

6. Product Representative

Professionals in the cosmetology industry depend on a wide range of products used to improve the health and appearance of hair, skin, and nails. As a product representative, you’ll have the opportunity to discover and champion exceptional products that change the dynamic cosmetology industry to better serve a diverse range of customers. In this role, you’ll travel to various locations to explain how products work, present demonstrations, provide literature, and promote different products. Skills you’ll need include:

• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
• Knowledge of various beauty products and how to use them properly
• Sales skills
• Customer service skills
• Knowledge of state laws and regulations in the areas you serve

7. Beauty Influencer or Blogger

As the age of digital transformation continues to expand, beauty influencers and bloggers have a growing role in the world of cosmetology. As a beauty influencer, you’ll be responsible for building and maintaining a strong social media presence and sharing relevant information about trending products, services, and beauty techniques. You may choose to write articles, provide tutorials, or complete comprehensive product reviews. Once you become a recognized brand, you may have an opportunity to partner with beauty product manufacturers and increase your earnings through affiliate marketing and sponsorships. Skills you’ll need as a beauty influencer include:

• Content creation knowledge and skills
• The ability to research and keep up with current beauty trends
• Digital knowledge
• An understanding of video equipment and making engaging videos
• The ability to develop a strong social media presence

Start Your Cosmetology Journey with a Solid Education

No matter where your passion lies in the cosmetology industry, your beauty journey begins with a solid education that will prepare you for the requirements to get your cosmetology license and thrive in your chosen role. In Utah, cosmetologists must complete training in a licensed school and sit for state-required exams. 

The Cosmetology/Barber Program at Renaissance Academie is designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers in the beauty industry. As a student, you’ll have the opportunity to learn the art of color, precision haircutting, chemical texture methods, nail care, skincare, and more. You’ll enjoy an engaging hands-on learning experience that goes beyond the classroom to prepare you for the work environment you’ll experience after receiving your license. If you’re ready to embark on a career in the world of beauty, contact us to learn more about our available courses designed to prepare you for a range of opportunities in the cosmetology industry.