The field of cosmetology is a fun, creative, and rewarding career choice. There are many avenues you can pursue with a cosmetology license. You can become a Hairstylist or Make-up Artist for a salon, open your own salon, work with models on the runway, on a film set, at photo shoots, or even work for a TV celebrity or a News Anchor. The roads you can take are many. If you're unsure what avenue you would like to pursue I suggest starting in a salon and volunteering at a local fashion show and start building a portfolio of your work to show to potential clients in whatever field you choose.

A cosmetologist is a licensed professional that is trained in hair cutting, dying, bleaching, tinting, heat styling, scalp treatments, and head massaging. A cosmetologist is also trained in make-up application, the application of oils and creams to enhance the skin and to regain its healthiness, hair removal, and the cleaning and polishing of the nails.

In cosmetology school you will start practicing on a mannequin first and then graduate to working on live people. You will want to have plenty of people to practice on so gather your friends and family. You will practice roller sets, rolling perm rods, hair cutting, hair foiling, braiding, cutting, coloring, the list goes on and on.

The approximate time it takes to complete a cosmetology degree is around nine months to a year depending on the laws in your state or country. You can of course, get a degree faster if you want to specialize in one area of cosmetology such as becoming a nail technician or a skin care specialist.

After completing your degree you must complete a continuing education class every two years to re-certify for your license. There are also continuing education classes you will want to attend so that you stay at the top of your profession. The world of hair, skin, nails, and makeup are forever evolving and changing. Without continuing your education you will not be able to give your clients the latest trends in style and in color.

I went to cosmetology school to learn make-up application. While I was there I fell in love with hair too. My passion and creativity came out and I started to create beautiful masterpieces. Hair and skin are my canvases to work with. Seeing the smile that lights up their faces are a priceless treasure. If you believe that this is the path for you I strongly urge you to visit at least three different schools to test out the environment and look over their curriculum to see if they are a good fit for you.