Cosmetologists are salon professionals who provide specialized services to help clients look and feel their best. Simply put,

cosmetology

refers to the cosmetic treatment of skin, hair, and nails. Let's take a sneak peek at the three components of cosmetology, complete with salary and employment figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics 2006-2007 Occupational Outlook Handbook.

Skin
The study of skin care involves the science of skin, body care, hair removal, and makeup. Tasks of a skin care specialist may include demonstrating how to clean and care for skin, examining skin and evaluating its condition and appearance, cleansing skin, performing simple extractions to remove blackheads, treating facial skin to maintain and improve its appearance, determining the products and colors that will improve skin quality and appearance, applying cosmetic products, and referring clients to medical personnel for treatment of serious skin problems.

Median annual earnings for skin care specialists were $24,010 in May 2004. These cosmetologists held about 30,000 jobs in 2004, and employment is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2014.

Hair
Hair design professionals provide hair care services to enhance the appearance of clients. Training typically involves the study of scientific concepts such as infection control, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition, ergonomics, basic principles of chemistry, and basic principles of electricity. Of course, this cosmetology training also encompasses hair care and services such as principles of hair design; draping procedures; brushing, shampooing, and conditioning; scalp treatment; haircutting procedures, hair styling procedures; braiding, wigs, and hair enhancements/additions; chemical texture services; and hair coloring procedures.

Median annual earnings for salaried hair design professionals were $19,800 in May 2004, with the highest 10 percent earning more than $35,990. These cosmetologists held 670,000 jobs in 2004, and overall employment is projected to increase 9 to 17 percent through 2014.

Nails
A nail technician works exclusively on nails and provides manicures, pedicures, coloring, and nail extensions to clients. Nail technician training typically includes theoretical coursework such as sanitation and sterilization, reflexology, bacteriology, skin and nail anatomy, nail diseases and disorders, and fungus analysis and treatment. Practical cosmetology coursework may encompass table setup, manicuring and pedicuring, airbrushing nail art, professional nail drill procedures, hand and foot massage techniques, and artificial nail work.

Median annual earnings for nail technicians were $18,500 in May 2004. These cosmetologists held about 60,000 jobs in 2004, and employment is projected to increase 18 to 26 percent through 2014. Start your in-demand cosmetology career today.