What Will I Really Learn in Cosmetology School?

If you think you might be  interested in enrolling in cosmetology school, there are some things you should know before making your decision. This way you can be absolutely positive that you’re making the right choice for your life and your future career!

Cosmetology school programs typically require students to complete between 1,500 to 2,000 hours. That may seem like a lot of time, but there’s a lot of material to cover! The good news is that if you choose to attend cosmetology school full time, most programs can be completed in about one year.

Not all cosmetology schools are created equal! Schools will vary depending on the curriculum, the teaching style and the quality of the instructors. However, the fundamentals of what you’ll learn in cosmetology school shouldn’t  vary too much from school to school. Here are five topics every beauty school is likely to cover in their cosmetology program:

Science – The anatomy of the hair, skin, and nails is one of the very first things you’ll learn in cosmetology school. Further along in the program, you’ll start learning about chemistry. All of the beauty products you’ll be using on clients include chemicals. You have to understand the ingredients and how they might interact so you can explain the process to your clients and make certain that you don’t make any chemical mistakes that could harm them.

Hair – As a cosmetology school student, of course you’ll be learning all things hair. You’ll learn a variety of different cuts, both short and long, using both shears and razors. You’ll learn how to formulate hair color, drawing from your chemistry lessons, and how to apply highlights and lowlights. You’ll learn how to give the perfect blowout, along with a variety of different finished styles, like braids and updos. It’s not just women’s hair that you’ll be working with. You’ll learn popular men’s cuts and styles, too!

Skin – Most cosmetology programs go far beyond just hair. As a cosmetology school student, you’ll also be learning about the basics of skin care. You’ll learn how to diagnose and treat different skin conditions, how to perform a variety of facials, and how to use different hair removal techniques. Makeup is also an important part of most cosmetology programs. You’ll learn how to recreate a variety of trendy makeup looks, highlighting, contouring, and creating special effects through makeup application.

Nails – Nail care is incorporated into most cosmetology programs. That’s because manicuring and pedicuring are subjects that are included on the State Board of cosmetology exam, which you’ll have to pass to get your cosmetology license.

State Board Prep – Your new cosmetology career depends on you being able to pass the State Board exam. That’s why as you near graduation, your cosmetology instructors will be focused on fully preparing you for the exam. They’ll teach you tips and tricks for passing it, prepare you for the types of questions you’ll see, and possibly give you a practice exam before the big day. That’s exactly what they do in the cosmetology program at Salon Success Academy. For more great tips, read this How to Pass the State Board of Cosmetology Exam Infographic.

What are you most excited to learn about in cosmetology school? Let us know by commenting below!

Not all cosmetology schools are created equal! The best cosmetology schools have experienced, helpful instructors who make sure students get plenty of practice working with real clients before they graduate. This means you’ll need to do your homework to make sure you’re picking a school that’s the right fit for you. Read these 6 Tips for Choosing the Right Cosmetology School for some great advice to help you with your school search.

Salon Success Academy is a cosmetology school with five convenient locations throughout the Inland Empire of California. The cosmetology program features hands-on training in the school’s high-end salon, as well as extensive preparation for the State Board exam. Call 877-987-4247 or fill out the form to get started today!