Beauty School: Is Cosmetology For Me?

Hump Day

Hello gorgeous! Whoop, whoop, it’s Hump Day! And that means it is time for another Q&A with Ask the Pro Stylist. This week’s query is for those future professionals considering beauty school. Is cosmetology for you?

What Do I Know about Beauty School and Cosmetology?

Having been in the beauty industry as a licensed cosmetologist for over 30 years, I know a few things. My career is expansive. As a result, as the Executive Director of a popular cosmetology school, I believe I have a bit of insight to address this question. Unfortunately, I see many without the passion and drive to complete 1000 hours. Additionally, I witness countless students that do not realize the course work required or the rules that must be followed. Yes, there are rules as set forth by accrediting agencies and the Department of State. Therefore, the following is a sampling of what to expect. You may email me or visit your state’s information site for appearance enhancement and cosmetology schools.

Beauty School Rules

Accreditation means the student and the school follow a guideline of educational standards. In addition, Title IV funding, or financial aid is offered in schools that are accredited. Not following the cosmetology school’s structure could cause the school to lose it. Each school has rules based on its accrediting agency and the Department of State.

Some Standards Include:

Following the enrollment agreement of contracted hours such as clocking in and out during the scheduled times.
Maintaining a specific attendance percentage.
Following the dress code.
Breaking at scheduled times.
Eating and drinking in designated areas.

Why Do These Rules Matter to a Future Beauty Professional?

Each state requires a number of educational hours before one can take the state board examination to be licensed in cosmetology. Attendance in NY is taken via register cards and clocking in. One thousand hours must be recorded. A school cannot and will not sign off on a student who has not graduated from the program, thus not meeting the institution’s criteria. If you cannot commit, wait to enroll until you can.

What Does Cosmetology Include?

The 1000-hour program contains 85% of hair education. Skin, nails, and makeup comprise the rest. There is a focus on anatomy, chemistry, skin and nail disorder, and diseases in theory that is necessary to learn to pass the written portion of the state board examination. Therefore, if makeup is your primary emphasis, this might not be for you. Currently, New York State does not offer a makeup license. If skincare or nails are your goals, find a school with an aesthetics or nail technician program. Search for a natural hair program if you just want to work on extensions and braids and not cut, color, or apply chemicals. In addition, utilize the right keywords to steer you in the correct direction. The other licenses do not require the same number of hours to complete as does cosmetology.

Happy Styling

I hope this small response addresses future professionals considering beauty school. A full guide is in the works, which details the information above. If you have a question regarding cosmetology please email me at asktheprostylist@gmail.com Until then, happy styling!

©Deirdre Haggerty 2022. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. It is unlawful to reproduce this article or any part therein without the author’s prior written permission and consent.