Women throughout history have dreamed of becoming beauticians. What could be so hard about making people look gorgeous? Despite popular opinion, real world beauticians are educated, talented, and hard-working people. While a career in beauty can be fulfilling, there are some things to consider before taking the dive.
Education is Key
Anyone can work at a salon, but in order to be a real world beautician – such as a skin care specialist, nail technician, or hairdresser – you must be licensed. In order to obtain a cosmetology license, beauticians are required to take cosmetology courses at a licensed school.
The Silver Lining: Cosmetology school only takes nine months on average to complete.
Income is Less Than Glamorous
The median annual income for real world beauticians is a little over $22,000. The top 90 percent make approximately $41,000. While that’s a decent living, most people wouldn’t consider it anything to write home about.
The Silver Lining: Beauticians who work in the motion picture industry earn an average salary of approximately $69,000.
Required Skills Extend Beyond Cosmetology
Becoming licensed is only the beginning of the education you’ll need in order to be successful as a real world beautician. Skills like time management, organization, customer service, and budgeting are must-haves.
The Silver Lining: These skills can easily be learned from a mentor.
Chemicals are a Reality
Most cosmetology services require exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. For the average person there’s no danger, but working with them every day could cause problems.
The Silver Lining: Most real world beauticians aren’t affected by chemicals. Also, you can wear a mask and gloves if necessary.
Physical Fitness is Crucial
Depending on the path within cosmetology you choose, you could be required to stand on your feet for eight or more hours each day, so stamina is vital.
The Silver Lining: You’ll quickly become accustomed to standing all day.
Building a Client Base Takes Time
As with any business, obtaining a group of regular, paying clients won’t happen overnight.
The Silver Lining: Most clients will become repeat customers.
Hours are Unconventional
Real life beauticians don’t work a normal nine-to-five. Most of the time, evenings and weekends are required, especially during the early years while building your client base.
The Silver Lining: As your career progresses, you have the ability to create your own schedule.
Some Medical Knowledge is Needed
Most people don’t think about the medical aspect of cosmetology, but knowing when to advise a client to seek medical treatment for scalp or skin conditions is vital.
Further Opportunities are Available
Don’t get discouraged by the average income for real world beauticians. The positive news is that many beauticians go on to open their own salons, become sales consultants, or pursue a career in consulting as a real world beautician.
Job Availability is on the Rise
Employment of beauticians is predicted to continue growing through the year 2020, so now is as good a time as any to start your career in cosmetology.