Cosmetology is a field that includes several specialties. Those who are barbers or hair stylists are part of the cosmetology field. As well, those specializing in nail care, such as manicurists and pedicurists, are cosmetologists. However, other practitioners can be said to work in the field of cosmetology as well. For example, those who shampoo hair are considered cosmetologists

Cosmetology fields like hairstyling, barbering, and manicuring, tend to require both training and licensing prior to being able to legally practice. Training tends to occur in beauty schools. Requirements prior to entering a beauty or barbering school are varied. Some schools require a minimum of a high school education, while others merely require proven ability to read and write.

Once a student has completed school, he or she takes both written and practical exams that demonstrate knowledge of subjects covered. In rare cases, internships can be substituted for training in a school. Licensing may only require one’s ability to pass exams.

Other fields of cosmetology, like shampooing, do not usually require special training or licensing. A person may receive a few days of on the job training, but there are no laws specifying that a person be licensed to practice this form of cosmetology. Usual both competence and a good personality are requisites.

Another field of cosmetology, which tends to be the most financially rewarding, is that of a make-up or skin specialist. These specialists may or may not be licensed, but tend to perform facials. To insure safety, always look for skin specialists that have active licensing. They may also be licensed as aestheticians.

Licensing in cosmetology does not always ensure equal competence. Some stylists and manicurists seem to perform their work competently and naturally, while others may not have the experience or communication skills necessary to achieve desired results. When people find a cosmetologist in any field that gives excellent results, it’s well worth remaining a regular customer to avoid bad haircuts, make-up or nail jobs.

Most fields of cosmetology do not offer great financial rewards. A few exceptions of well-known cosmetologists can charge as much as 1000 US dollars (USD) for a haircut. Such success stories include cosmetology expert Jonathon Anton, whose reality show Blow-Out on the Bravo network has covered both his abrasive personality and success as the owner of several salons. Salon owners tend to profit most in the field of cosmetology since they tend to share in the revenues earned by every worker in the salon, either by renting stations, or by offering a salary to workers.

Most in the field of cosmetology are in no position to afford a Beverly Hills lifestyle however. Average income for most hair stylists is approximately 19,000 USD per year. Shampooers make the least with an average income of about 15,000 USD per year. Even though cosmetology often offers a person the opportunity to earn tips, the above income figures include tips. Skin specialists tend to be highest paid, but still may only make about 25,000 USD.