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Social Services

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

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Provide beauty services, such as cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. May shampoo hair, apply makeup, dress wigs, remove hair, and provide nail and skincare services.

Median salary

$35,250

Typical range

$25k – $70k

Job outlook

+6% (faster than average)

AI exposure

Plan a path to Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

Qualification costsStack incomeBest cities/statesSchool ROIJob-posting fitTailored resume

Education

Typical entry: Associate degree

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How to qualify

License required

Cost to qualify

$5,150–$20,350

Time to qualify

1.1 yr

Renewal

$38/yr

  1. 1

    Cosmetology school (1,000–1,600 hrs)

    Course

    State-approved program; required hours vary by state.

    $5,000–$20,000 · 12 months · varies by state source

  2. 2

    State board exam (written + practical)

    Exam

    Theory and hands-on practical examination.

    $100–$200 · 2 weeks · varies by state source

  3. 3

    State cosmetology license

    License

    Issued after passing the board exam.

    $50–$150 · 2 weeks · varies by state · renews every 2 yr source

Which occupations require a license and in which states: CareerOneStop License Finder (U.S. DOL). Costs/hours are curated estimates that vary by state and change — see each step's official source.

Typical progression

  1. Junior Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

    Entry / Junior

    $24,580

    ~2 yrs to advance

  2. Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

    Established

    $35,250

    ~3 yrs to advance

  3. Senior Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

    Senior

    $52,735

Key skills

A typical day

  • •Keep work stations clean and sanitize tools, such as scissors and combs.
  • •Bleach, dye, or tint hair, using applicator or brush.
  • •Cut, trim and shape hair or hairpieces, based on customers' instructions, hair type, and facial features, using clippers, scissors, trimmers and razors.
  • •Schedule client appointments.
  • •Update and maintain customer information records, such as beauty services provided.

Fields of study

Any field

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