Cosmetology: The Career of Self Improvement

Natalie Martin

English III - Honors Pd. 1

Mr. Piatak

February 23, 2017

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Fashion, design, and innovation fuel the cosmetology field contributing to a sixty two

billion dollar beauty industry. Tokyo, Paris, Milan, and New York set standards for the world in

an ever evolving market (Mathema, etal). Now more than ever, a cosmetologist must master

beauty techniques and can even concentrate studies in hairstyling, cosmetics, electrology, and

other sub specialties. Branches of speciality include hairstyling, skin care, cosmetics, electrology,

manicures and pedicures and offer a wealth of sub careers. Diverse opportunities for study

within cosmetology offer science, technology, chemistry and art the chance to intertwine.

Within the range of product development to makeup application, and everything in between, a

cosmetologist may study and practice their skills from start to finish. This cutting edge career of

beautifying skin, hair, and nails offers a myriad of job possibilities. Hairstyling uniquely melds

the mechanic of cosmetology skills and individual ingenuity as an appealing specialty. The

evolution of cosmetology to enhance and improve personal presence requires devotion to an

extensive education for an innovative career that continues to metamorphose with time.

A hairstyle or haircut refers to the manipulation of hair, most commonly on the human

scalp. The oldest known depiction of hair braiding dates back about 30,000 years. In ancient

civilizations, women's hair was often displayed in elaborate and careful unique arrangements

(Hairstyle). Patrician women in Imperial Rome wore their hair in such complicated styles it

often took multiple slaves to maintain the intricate designs. Throughout the Roman Empire until

the Middle Ages, most women grew their hair as long as it would naturally extend. Covering or

tying hair up became common because cutting was rarely used. Many societies considered it

scandalous for women to wear their hair down and uncovered in public, as a result, wimples,

kerchiefs and veils became common adornments. In the late 15th and 16th centuries, high
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hairlines and foreheads attracted desired attention. During this time, European men wore their

hair cropped no longer than shoulder-length.

In the following centuries to modern times, European women's hair became more visible

while their hair coverings grew smaller. Later in the seventeenth century, standards changed

with men growing longer hair with highly sought after waves and curls (Hairstyle). This same

century, perukes and periwigs, powdered wigs for men, became popular. Eventually custom

allowed both genders to wear wigs. As time progressed so did hair habits.

Hairstyles often reflected the time period and events in which they took place. During

the First World War, women around the world began a shift to shorter hairstyles that promised

easier management. Women concerned with the war effort took up masculine jobs but wanted to

remain feminine looking. For the first time women sported a bob, a short cut or cropped hair.

Permanent waves became popular during the war years also. Multitasking women wore curlers

while they slept, and simply re-pinned the curls when they woke up. In this unsettled time,

mens haircuts became shorter and the crew cut increased in popularity. Long hair for men was

discouraged because it made them appear more feminine (Hairstyle).

Then in the postwar era, women started to wear their hair in softer more natural styles.

Ladies straightened long hair using a chemical process or would press their hair at home with a

clothes iron. The 1950s popular curls and waves gave way to the sixties short impish pixie cuts.

Long loose hair in the seventies embraced the far out catchphrase that reflected a countrys

political reformation (Bemis). After the Vietnam war, women became invested in the workforce

of the nation and did not have the time or the need to put a lot of effort into their hairstyles.
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Many religious cultures adhered to strict modesty for women including head coverings.

Subtle or complex adornment gave traditional head wraps interest as an accessory to hair.

Haredi Judaism and European Orthodox religions advocated saved or short cut hair covered by

wigs. Catholic Nuns also kept modest blunt hair covered by a three piece habit including a

veil at the back. Many times in Buddhist and Hindu cultures women shaved their heads

completely in submissiveness to their gods. Religious views of personal appearance would

sometimes overshadow political influence. Submission to God was more important than

submitting themselves to the will of society (Hairstyle). Today, many of these religious

practices continue in various societies.

Over the centuries, hairstyles signified social class, age, marital status, political beliefs,

religion, and gender. Those in upper social classes utilized elaborate ornaments and tools to

style their hair. Middle and lower class citizens wore their hair in simpler looks. In the

nineteenth century, woman's hairstyles indicated their age and marital status by arranging hair up

off the shoulders and neck which signified a woman was of age or wedded. Cultures outside

America used head adornments for the same socially recognizable purposes. In Africa, women

traditionally wore beads in their braids to indicate their engagement. Differences in hairstyles

between men and women illustrated the differentiation between their roles as dictated by society.

Curls, ornamentation, and other modes of style showcased a womans femininity. Mens roles in

the labor force and military positions required shorter hairstyles with minimal upkeep. A

persons individual approach to hair manipulation becomes non-verbal communication to

onlookers indicating their socio-economic status, culture, and personality (Hairstyle).

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With the constant change in hairstyles throughout history, the result becomes the

evolution of the industry and products to facilitate the many styles. Today we have access to

many more tools and products than ever before. We now see advertising for hair products and

tools everywhere. Women in the 1900s made curlers out of whatever materials they could find,

such as large empty cans. We now have access to hair dryers, hair rollers, straightening irons,

curling irons, crimpers, hair pins, etc ("Stylist). For the last few centuries, men utilize pomade

and gel to slick hair to give it a sculpted look. Leave in conditioner, dry shampoo, mousse,

serums, and hairspray have become common tricks of the trade in the twenty-first century

(Hairstyle). These products became prevalent because of their success rate. As tools have

changed, the know how to wield these high tech instruments requires additional instruction.

The suggested career path for cosmetologists helps aspiring beauticians to succeed in

their chosen field. High schools occasionally offer students coursework to prepare or even apply

towards cosmetology school. Classes prerequisite to a high school degree also prepare students

for beauty school, such as art, writing, speech, and English. Art grooms students for the design

and three dimensional thinking imperative to personalizing results for clients. Writing and

speech strategies, learned in English classes, will aid cosmetology students with future exams

and public speaking. As most cosmetology schools require a General Education Diploma (GED)

or High School Diploma these classes will establish a foundation for new growth (Ley).

Admission into beauty school does not require college education credits, however, Sara

Hayward comments that stylists can have a bachelor's degree in media, fashion or interior design

(Hayward). A concentration of cosmetology schools reside in the east and midwest of the United

States. Tuition ranges from $6,000 to $30,000. Variables such as books, materials, room and
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board contribute to expenses (Shepherd). Popular schools include Keune Academy in Georgia,

Empire Beauty School in Kentucky, Salon Boutique Academy in Texas, and Avalon School of

Cosmetology in Arizona (Best Cosmetology School Ratings). An eighty to ninety percent

female population dominates most beauty schools. Caucasian and Hispanic ethnicities account

for the majority of cosmetology students but percentages vary by location (Best Cosmetology

School Ratings). Common thought believes the diversity of students lends to greater learning

opportunities.

Schools present students with the choice of earning a certificate or license in their field.

Earning a cosmetology certificate requires 9 months to complete. However, a full cosmetology

license will require two years of schooling to acquire the desired associate's degree. Few

cosmetology programs offer externships for those wanting more experience before entering the

professional field ("Hair Dresser Education...). Students attending a working school practice

their acquired skills on clients allowing them to gain hours of practice. These hours count

towards a student achieving a two year associates degree. For some students a fast track to their

career makes the certificate an appealing option. The certificate course fulfills only a basic

mastery in their discipline.

Cosmetology schools offer fundamental courses for students in either an associates

degree and certificate program. Common courses include: hair health, coloring, cutting, styling,

nail care, state regulations, salon management, and esthetics. Pupils participate in hands on

training within student salons to acquire certain skills such as communication and salon

management. Coursework also consists of tool management, safety, sanitation, hair analysis,
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and hair color. These coursework options build upon the common courses to magnify hairstylists

skills ("Hair Dresser Education...).

Cosmetology Schools have a general consensus on the courses offered and required for

licensing. Among these schools, additional courses offered may differ. This first set of primary

courses encompass the history of cosmetology, level of opportunities within the field, successful

skills needed, rules and regulations, and basic instructions and practice. This coursework

introduces novices to basic services, the properties of hair, and the study of anatomy and

chemistry. In depth study of product knowledge, hair color principles and techniques emphasize

client protection and safety ("Cosmetology Course Curriculum").

The second level of training articulates technique and standards. Teachers introduce

client services, customer service and front desk procedures. Nonetheless professional etiquette

does not eclipse the importance of classes pertaining to salon regulations, state regulations and

sanitation rules. Courses on the histology of skin, a reinforcement of anatomy and the effects of

cosmetology on the body, support knowledge of widespread standards concerning regulations

and sanitation ("Cosmetology Course Curriculum"). Completion of first and secondary level

courses in addition to one thousand practice hours with a mentor qualify students to take state

board exams for licensing.

Advanced third level classes polish professional practices and skills and reinforce the

basics learned in beginning levels. Specialized training in hair lightening and framing allow

stylists to demonstrate competency and personalized services. Students enrolled in beauty school

can apprentice in professional salons, learning hands on techniques and shadowing specialists.

This helps some stylists secure a salon position before graduating from school. Professionals
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advise looking for opportunities to work directly with clients while earning a license. Most

experts would not advise apprenticeships without formal training ("Cosmetology Course

Curriculum).

Education author, Samantha Ley points out that cosmetologists must acquire a license to

practice in their chosen state. The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences

(NACCAS) grants accreditation to cosmetology schools and students. All students must pass a

national licensing exam, though eligibility varies by state. This organization requires that

students must demonstrate comprehension in all forms of cosmetology: skin, nails and hair. The

NACCAS provides a standard measurement test to assess proper preparation. Cosmetologists

will need to renew their license every few years to continue to practice. This does not apply to a

stylist with the goal of obtaining a certificate. The owner of a certificate does not require an

exam or accreditation (Ley).

Continued training upon completion of beauty school heightens a stylists experience in

their field and increases the chance of a higher paying job. Advanced education refreshes

employees skills and updates their repertoire. Professional salons look for employees to hire

who have good work ethics and a broad knowledge base. Flexibility and becoming a fast

learner, perpetuates success as a hairstylist. A mentor can assist in quick course correction and

developing talents. Veterans suggest graduates find a job at a salon around the city with people

who know the reputation of the school the stylist came from. As a professional in the field, many

hairstylists aim to work in a salon to gain experience. Beauticians new to this career may find it

beneficial to work with a mentor to get a feel for a real working environment and fine tune skills

before they work on their own. Some people then move on to try a different setting if the
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professional salon does not fit their needs. Instead of working in a traditional salon, some stylists

opt for setting up a salon in their own home. This offers more flexibility in working hours and

pay. Hair stylists recently out of beauty school need adjustment time to get a feel for their field

and the competition that comes into play. Comfort and confidence come throughout this

adjustment process ("Cosmetology Apprenticeships).

Becoming a hairstylist encompasses more than doing hair. Specific responsibilities and

skills help stylists adapt in a demanding career. The day to day of someone working in a home

salon opposed to a professional salon varies greatly: the daily schedule, responsibilities and

difficult decisions may alter the professional hair stylists career path. The typical schedule of a

hair stylist in a home offers flexibility because the stylist schedules appointments at their

convenience. The hours worked in a professional salon become dependent on a clients schedule.

While home salons differ from professional salons offering more flexibility and independence, a

home salon requires beauticians to act as boss in every aspect. Personal employment entails

budgeting, stocking products, and booking clients and communications. Those who choose to

run their home salon cannot rely on anyone else to stock products and make appointments, they

must be dependent on themselves. For some a quality home life outweighs managing their own

business (Sherwood).

Both home and salon settings face some similar obstacles. Seasonal demands and special

occasions keep salons busy in the months of March and April with prom and wedding season.

Back to school haircuts in August create an influx of clients (Sherwood). On average, a

hairstylist spends two to three days a week at work depending on obligations to their clients.
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Seventy five percent of time consists of working with clients, coloring, cutting, and styling the

hair to the desired finish. Twenty percent of a hairstylists time resides in shopping for supplies

and general upkeep of inventory. Hairstylists set the remaining time aside to communicate with

clients: responding to texts, emails, calls and scheduling appointments (Sherwood).

Hairstylists interact with clients on a daily basis. Problems most commonly arise in

client appeals. The stylists responsibility of managing the technical aspects of a clients

requests requires experience to execute and communicate. Beauticians need to have the skill sets

to make decisive decisions based on their schooling and knowledge (Sherwood).

Claire Sherwood works from her home salon in North Carolina and has always been

interested in hair. I remember playing with my babysitters hair as a child and styling my own

hair in elementary school. In high school I would do my friends hair and makeup for dances and

always really enjoyed it. I loved the creative aspect of it and I've always been into aesthetics

(Sherwood). Getting started on the career path of cosmetology requires a genuine interest in the

field. Research can help determine if this career path seems acceptable to interested individuals.

Mrs. Sherwood completed her high school project on cosmetology her senior year and continued

researching through job shadowing professionals after graduation. She knew cosmetology would

allow her to keep learning new skills and express her creativity, and also allow her to be a mom

to her little girls as she progressed farther into the field. She has a passion for her chosen

profession and enjoys visiting with clients and making them look their best.

Design and creativity draw many people into cosmetology. As a stylist for over ten

years, Rachel Shepherd realized early in her education that her artistic and creative talents made
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her exceptionally good at hairdressing. Continuing education classes gave Ms. Shepherd the

knowledge base to feel confident in her skills and abilities. She also takes the opportunity to

learn from her peers. Every year she attends two courses to learn new and cutting edge

techniques. She became interested in balayage, a hair painting technique. This process creates a

natural looking effect of highlighting. By taking continuing education classes all over the United

States, she gains exposure to people, expands her skill set and indulges in her love of travel.

Using her acquired expertise, increases her earning potential. Working full time, she can earn up

to $5,000 a month. Renting her own space in the salon, allows her to set her own hours and care

for her children (Shepherd).

Historically societies showed fascination with changing their appearance and enhancing

natural beauty. In todays world, women still cannot resist looking to the past to create new

trends. A cosmetologists job requires the training and experience needed to merge history with

modern fashion. Traditionally classes and apprenticeships lead to various careers, however

continued education enhances skills for even those less formally trained. Advancements within

cosmetology allow multiple job specialties, including hair styling, to link classic tradition with a

world culture constantly seeking transformation.

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Works Cited

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