Are you passionate about helping people look their best? Do you want to pursue a career in beauty and creativity? Then, the cosmetology school in New York is the best option that you can opt for. Whether it is hairstyling, makeup, nails, or skin care, whatever interests you, a cosmetology school can help you with it and help you build a successful career.
Interested in this career, but have no clue how to get started? Below is everything you need to know—education, licensure, skills, and beyond to make a wise decision.
What You Will Learn
This blog will provide details about:
What Is Cosmetology?
Cosmetology is the art and science of beauty treatment—hairdressing, colouring, cutting; skin treatment, such as facials, makeup, and waxing; nail care; and sometimes even more specialized procedures. Cosmetologists can work in salons, spas, resorts, or work for themselves. They can also specialize in areas such as esthetics, medical cosmetology, or product development.
Why Choose Cosmetology? Job Outlook & Demand
As reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists will increase 5% from 2024 to 2034—more rapidly than most other occupations. That amounts to roughly 84,200 job openings per year, on average, during the decade.
Skincare professionals (which correspond to cosmetology) are also expected to experience even greater growth, approximately 7%, between 2024 and 2034. These figures indicate a considerable and increasing demand for beauty and personal care treatments, particularly as consumers continue to trend towards wellness, appearance, and self-care.
How to Get Started With a Cosmetology Program?
The following is a step-by-step outline of how to get started with a cosmetology school in New York:
Step 1: Meet Basic Requirements
Before signing up for a cosmetology school or program, ensure you meet these requirements:
Step 2: Select a Training Program
To become a cosmetologist, you will need formal training. The training encompasses both theoretical (classroom work) and hands-on components.
Sign up for an accredited cosmetology program in New York. Most programs last between 9 and 15 months and require between 1,000 and 2,300 hours of training, depending on the state. They cover hair, skin, nails, makeup, safety and sanitation, and basic business skills.
Make sure your school offers supervised practice work, like working with mannequins, real clients, or in supervised salon classrooms. Some places and organizations also offer apprenticeship or internship programs that give you hands-on training.
Step 3: Get Specializations or Additional Skills
Cosmetology encompasses a broad scope. Special skills can make you stand out:
Step 4: Licensing & Certification
To work legally, many places require cosmetologists to be licensed or certified. Once you finish your NY cosmetology training program, you will typically have to pass a state board exam (written + practical sessions) in the fields you’ve trained in (hair, skin, nails).
Pay the fees for registering or getting a license. In some states, licenses must be renewed on a regular basis, and people who work in the field must keep learning. If you move to a different state, find out if your license can be transferred and if you need to take more tests.
Step 5: Build Experience & Portfolio
It’s important to have real-world experience. Clients and employers often like to see proof of skills. Look for assistant or entry-level jobs in salons to get professional experience, learn from more experienced hairstylists, and build your client base.
Use every opportunity to build your portfolio—before/after photos, different styles, and services. If possible, use social media to showcase your work. Many clients find cosmetologists through social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Keep clients happy; word of mouth and repeat business are crucial here.
Step 6: Select Employment Model
There are many ways to work as a cosmetologist, and the best one for you will depend on your career goals and lifestyle needs. Most professionals start out working for an existing salon or spa, where they can get regular hours, a steady stream of clients, and less paperwork to do. However, this system can also result in less flexibility in your schedule and earnings, as profits are typically split with the salon owner.
Step 7: Build Soft Skills & Business Savvy
Business/marketing skills: Although not necessarily learned at school, bookkeeping, social media marketing, and branding skills will be a massive advantage if you have your own business.
Step 8: Seek Employment & Develop
Having a license and being skilled, here’s how to move forward:
Read Also: Career Opportunities After Completing an Advanced Aesthetics Program in NYC
Get Started With Your Cosmetology Career Right Away!
If you have made up your mind to become a cosmetologist, the best way to get started is by signing up for a cosmetology school in New York. At International Barber and Beauty Institute (IBBI), we offer plenty of programs that could help you get started with your cosmetology career in no time. Take your time to review our career options and make a choice that aligns with your interests.
It takes a little bit of courage to pursue one’s dream, so don’t wait; book a consultation with our team today.
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