Barbers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more
- Education Required
- A high school diploma or equivalent is required for some positions. In addition, every state requires that barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists complete a program in a state-licensed barber or cosmetology school. These programs are mainly found in postsecondary vocational schools and typically lead to a postsecondary nondegree award or certificate. Most of these workers take advanced courses in hairstyling or in other personal appearance services to keep up with the latest trends. Those who want to open their own business also may take courses in sales and marketing.
- Job Outlook
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The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 10% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.) - Licenses/Certifications
- Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists must obtain a license in order to work. Qualifications for a license vary by state, but generally, a person must fulfill the following criteria:
- Median pay: How much do Barbers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists make?
- $24,300 Annual Salary
- $11.68 per hour
Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists provide haircutting, hairstyling, and a range of other beauty services.
What do Barbers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists do?
Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists typically do the following:
- Inspect and analyze hair, skin, and scalp to recommend treatment
- Discuss hairstyle options
- Wash, color, lighten, and condition hair
- Chemically change hair textures
- Cut, dry, and style hair
- Receive payments from clients
- Clean and disinfect all tools and work areas
Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists provide hair and beauty services to enhance clients appearance. Those who operate their own barbershop or salon have managerial duties that may include hiring, supervising, and firing workers, as well as keeping business and inventory records, ordering supplies, and arranging for advertising.
Careers for Barbers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
- Barbers
- Barbers apprentices
- Beauticians
- Beauty care specialists
- Colorists
- Cosmetologists
- Funeral home makeup artists
- Hair and makeup designers
- Hair colorists
- Hair designers
- Hairdressers
- Hairpiece stylists
- Hairstylists
- Master barbers
- Wedding makeup artists
- Wig stylists