What exactly is a cosmetology license?

[Mizani_Mrs]

I know it sounds like a stupid question, but i woke up this morning with this thought on my mind...what exactly is required of you in order to receieve a cosmo license? Like how many years of school? how many classes? are they all related to hair, or are there general education classes also? what is the average cost range? how do you get to practice?

hmmmm, i'm not sure i want to quit my career and become one but i really love learning about hair....maybe i could take classes and see how it goes. erplexed

 

[qtgirl]

In your state you need:
1500 hours in an approved cosmetic art school cosmetologist curriculum
Passage of the State Board examination
Payment of appropriate fees

The board exam fees are $80, but school tuition prices vary based on the school that you go to.

The Aveda Institute in Charlotte includes this in it's cosmetology curriculum:

Express your creativity and talent in hair, skin and nail care, and makeup application. Our cosmetology course incorporates 1500 hours of extensive hands-on learning to provide you a complete understanding of beauty and wellness. Upon completion, you’ll be ready to succeed as a licensed cosmetologist.

The Cosmetology curriculum is designed to prepare students for the State Licensing examination and for gainful employment. A student will learn the technical, personal and business skills to prepare you for work in a professional salon as a cosmetologist, retail sales specialist, salon manager or owner.

An Aveda Institute education is rigorous and thorough. Throughout the weeks of the Cosmetology program, you’ll cover the following topics in varying levels of depth and detail, giving you an exceptional foundation for your professional career.

Plant Aromaology™
history of aromaology
therapeutic effects
custom testing and blending

Chemistry
scalp and hair analysis
bacteriology
infection control
sanitation/sterilization
ingredient analysis

Anatomy & Physiology
cells, tissue and organs
muscular system
nervous system
circulatory system
endocrine system
excretory system
respiratory system
digestive system
nutrition

Shampooing/Conditioning
product analysis
procedures/techniques
draping for wet and dry chemical services
selecting correct shampoo/ conditioner

Hair Styling
wet styling
fingerwaving
pin curl techniques
roller curls
comb out techniques
artistry in hair styling
thermal styling
conventional thermal (marcel) irons
electric thermal irons
blow-dry styling

Hair Cutting
implements and techniques
sectioning
scissors
clippers
razors
client consultation

Permanent Restructuring
history of permanent waving
chemistry of solutions
pre-perm analysis
rod selection
perming techniques
custom perm design and wrapping

Chemical Hair Relaxing/Restructuring
product analysis
client hair analysis
application techniques
equipment, implements and materials

Hair Coloring
color theory
classifications of hair color
product analysis
corrective coloring
contemporary techniques
one dimensional
multidimensional
foils
bleach/tone

Skin Care
histology
disorders
facials
cleansing
moisturizing

Makeup
color theory
contoured and natural makeup application
subtle and dramatic application

Nail Care
manicures/pedicures
nail design and artistry
nail extensions
massage techniques for hands, arms and feet

State Rules and Regulations
state laws and rules
safety and sanitation requirements

Personal/Career Development
time management
goal-setting
team building
communication
cover letter/resume writing
interview techniques
job requirements

 

[baglady215]

The schools in Philly are about $15,000. Evening classes were about a year and a half, daytime I think 9 months. You practice on manequins and on real people as you advance. I'm still debating if I want to go to school or not. I'm in the corporate world now but I can't see myself doing this forever.

 

[Mizani_Mrs]

wow, thanks for the responses. That takes up way more time than i anticipated. Kudos to the LCHF ladies who have done it! One more question...does anyone know of a studybook or review book for the license exam? I guess i am looking for more hair knowledge. You know like when i was studying for my bachelors....we'd have these long 16week courses, then we'd have a small booklet we'd review in a week that gives all of the important points you should remember for the exam. I would be interested in purchasing a book or 2 that has all of the basics of hair cosmetology, and basically describe to me what hairdressers should know so that i will be knowledgeable when i go to a salon instead of taking their word for it. You know what I mean? Not enough knowledge to actually become licensed, but enough book knowledge so that I know if a stylist ain't washing my hair right or is leaving the relaxer in too long...etc etc.....

i'll search online for a book...but if anyone knows which brand is considered the best, give a sista a holla...

 

[qtgirl]

One of the best or standards is Miladay.

Her newest book was printed in 04, unfortunately the black cosmetology book was printed in 90, and the cover looks like the 80's

 

[Mizani_Mrs]

QT gurl, thanks so much! i am going to purchase that Milady book as soon as payday comes around . i'll look on ebay/amazon and hopefully find a used book....

man.. there sure are some smart ladies here on LHCF, i've yet to see a question go unanswered....

 

[candibaby]

One of the best or standards is Miladay.

Her newest book was printed in 04, unfortunately the black cosmetology book was printed in 90, and the cover looks like the 80's

I agree. This is the book we use at my school.