What is Cosmetology?

Do you have a passion for nails and makeup? Are you always following the latest hair trends? If this sounds like you then the beauty industry might be the place for you. Having a passion for beauty is the first step to becoming a cosmetologist.

If you’ve been thinking about enrolling in cosmetology school, then you’ve probably heard the term cosmetology a lot. Most people believe that cosmetology only involves hair and makeup, which isn’t true. There is a lot more to cosmetology, you’d be surprised what a cosmetologist learns during their time in school.

So what is cosmetology? That’s what we’re here to tell you.

What is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty treatments. While cosmetology has been around since the early 1900s, it started to take off in the 1950s when cosmetologists started learning special hair treatments and started trends.

Since then the cosmetology industry has been booming. You can’t even get on your social media without seeing the latest beauty trends anymore. Thanks to social media and trends, we can expect to see cosmetology continue to define the future of the beauty industry.

What Do Cosmetologists Do?

One of the best parts of becoming a cosmetologist is the range of skills you can learn. If you have a passion for hair, you can become a hairstylist. If you’re more passionate about nails, you can provide nail services.

A majority of the skills that cosmetologists learn are learned in beauty school. For example, at in Queen Beauty Institute’s cosmetology program, you can learn:

Haircutting and Styling
Hair Coloring
Nail Technology
Skin Care
Makeup Application
And more!

Cosmetologists are the experts when it comes to beauty. While you do learn a lot of these beauty skills, it is also important that cosmetologists understand basic chemistry and biology. Having this knowledge ensures that you are using chemical products correctly, ensuring the safety of clients.

Where Can Cosmetologists Work?

You can find cosmetologists working in a variety of different settings. The majority of cosmetologists work in a salon or spa setting helping clients look their best. Cosmetologists can be hired directly by salon owners, or they may rent out a suite in the building.

While a salon and spa may be ideal for some cosmetologists, some cosmetologists prefer to operate as freelancers or work with staffing agencies to be hired for specific jobs.

How to Become a Cosmetologist

In a majority of states, to become a cosmetologist, you must attend cosmetology school. Here in Pennsylvania, it’s no different. To become a licensed cosmetologist, you’ll have to do these three things:

Enroll into a cosmetology school
Complete the state of Pennsylvania’s minimum required training hours
Sit for the state’s cosmetology board exam

After you complete those three things, you can become a licensed cosmetologist. If you’re thinking about becoming a licensed cosmetologist, then you’re going to want to choose your school carefully. You’ll want to pick a school that prepares you for your future and has the environment you’re looking for.

Here at Queen Beauty Institute, our cosmetology program is designed to help our students prepare to sit for the state exam. Your success is our top priority. You can learn firsthand from our experienced instructors while gaining hands-on experience in our student salon*.

Ready to Start Your Beauty Education?

If you’re creative, passionate, and love working with people, then cosmetology could be the perfect future for you. If you’re ready to get started, contact us and a member from our admissions team will be in contact with you shortly.

Is cosmetology not your thing? No worries! We also offer programs in nail technology, esthetics, and instructor courses for those already licensed.

*Student service performed under the supervision of licensed professionals.