COCosmetology
CO
Career

Cosmetology

By the numbers
Typical pay
$35,790 / yr
Education to start
Postsecondary nondegree award
Future demand
+5.6% by 2034
People in this job
306K
Figures shown for ·closest of 3 O*NET occupations
The work
A day, hour by hour
08:30
Open & prep

Sanitize stations, lay out tools, review the day's appointment book.

09:00
First consult

Client describes a big color change — assess hair health before saying yes.

09:20
Color & cut

Apply bleach, monitor processing, then cut and style to finish the look.

11:15
Back-to-back clients

Two haircuts in a row — read each client fast, deliver, reset station.

13:00
Nail service

Shape, buff, and polish a full manicure while keeping conversation easy.

14:00
Content break

Snap before-and-afters from the morning, post to Instagram to pull new clients.

14:20
Facial & wax

Run a facial, watch for skin reaction, adjust products mid-treatment if needed.

16:00
Late appointments

Two after-work clients — feet aching, but energy and precision stay sharp.

18:30
Close down

Sterilize all tools, restock supplies, confirm tomorrow's bookings.

Things you do
  • Cut, color, and style hair to match what clients want.
  • Consult with clients to understand their look and hair goals.
  • Apply chemical treatments like perms, relaxers, and bleach safely.
  • Give facials, waxing, and skincare treatments to clients.
  • Shape and polish nails for manicures and pedicures.
Decisions you’ll make
  • Is this client's hair healthy enough to handle the color they're asking for?
  • Should I push back on what they want, or just give them what they asked for?
  • Is this scalp irritation a reaction I need to stop the treatment for right now?
  • Should I suggest a style that actually flatters them, even if it's not what they described?
  • Is this client a good fit for my book, or will they always be hard to satisfy?
Education Pathways · how you get there
0 in 100 went the college route · 100 in 100 found another way in None, typically
Education mapped from O*NET:
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