8 Careers You Can Have As A Cosmetologist

A cosmetology license opens the door to a variety of career opportunities, far beyond just working behind a salon chair. At Phagans School of Hair Design, we prepare our students to explore all the possibilities their training can offer. Whether you’re drawn to creative artistry, entrepreneurial ventures, or helping others feel their best, there’s a cosmetology career path for you. Let’s dive into eight exciting career options you can pursue as a licensed cosmetologist.

1. Hair Stylist

Becoming a hair stylist is one of the most popular career choices for cosmetologists. As a hair stylist, you’ll work directly with clients to create stunning looks through cutting, coloring, styling, and treating hair. This role requires technical expertise and creativity to meet diverse client needs.

What You’ll Do:

• Perform haircuts and trims.
• Apply hair coloring techniques like balayage, ombre, or highlights.
• Style hair for events such as weddings or proms.
• Provide scalp treatments and conditioning services.

Where You Can Work:

• Salons
• Spas
• Freelance for events

With the ability to specialize in areas like color correction or textured hair, you can carve out a niche and become a sought-after stylist.

2. Makeup Artist

If makeup is your passion, you can pursue a career as a professional makeup artist. This field allows you to work in a variety of industries, from entertainment to beauty retail.

What You’ll Do:

• Apply makeup for weddings, photoshoots, and special occasions.
• Collaborate on film, TV, or theater productions.
• Teach clients how to apply makeup for everyday use.

Where You Can Work:

• Fashion shows
• Film and television sets
• Cosmetic retail stores
• Freelance services

Specializing in areas like special effects (SFX) makeup or bridal makeup can further enhance your career prospects.

3. Esthetician

While esthetics often requires additional certification, many cosmetologists expand their skills to include skincare. Estheticians focus on improving and maintaining healthy skin, offering services that clients value for relaxation and rejuvenation.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide facials and skin treatments.
• Perform waxing or threading services.
• Offer microdermabrasion or chemical peels.
• Educate clients on skincare routines.

Where You Can Work:

• Spas
• Dermatology clinics
• Beauty studios

Adding esthetics to your repertoire can broaden your service offerings and attract a new clientele.

4. Salon or Spa Owner

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, opening your own salon or spa can be a rewarding path. This career allows you to combine your cosmetology skills with business acumen to create a unique space for beauty services.

What You’ll Do:

• Manage a team of stylists and technicians.
• Oversee daily operations, including scheduling and finances.
• Market your business to attract clients.
• Ensure your salon complies with industry regulations.

Keys to Success:

• Build a strong brand.
• Develop leadership skills.
• Offer a diverse range of services to appeal to a wide audience.

Owning your own salon gives you the freedom to bring your vision to life while building a loyal customer base.

5. Beauty Educator

If you love sharing knowledge and mentoring others, becoming a beauty educator might be the right fit. As an educator, you can inspire future cosmetologists by teaching in beauty schools or conducting workshops.

What You’ll Do:

• Teach cosmetology techniques and theory.
• Prepare students for state board exams.
• Develop course materials and lesson plans.
• Stay updated on industry trends to keep your teaching relevant.

Where You Can Work:

• Beauty schools
• Cosmetology conferences
• Private workshops

Educators play a vital role in shaping the next generation of beauty professionals, which can make this a fulfilling career choice.

6. Product Representative or Brand Ambassador

Do you enjoy networking and promoting products you believe in? A career as a product representative or brand ambassador allows you to combine your cosmetology expertise with sales and marketing skills.

What You’ll Do:

• Represent beauty brands at trade shows and events.
• Educate salons and stylists about product lines.
• Demonstrate how to use products effectively.
• Drive sales through client relationships.

Where You Can Work:

• Beauty product companies
• Trade shows
• Retail environments

This role often includes travel and offers opportunities to connect with other industry professionals.

7. Fashion Show Stylist

For those drawn to the high-energy world of fashion, working as a stylist for fashion shows can be an exhilarating career. This role allows you to combine creativity and technical skill to design looks that complement designers’ visions.

What You’ll Do:

• Collaborate with fashion designers to create cohesive looks.
• Style hair and apply makeup for runway models.
• Work under tight deadlines in fast-paced environments.

Where You Can Work:

• Fashion weeks
• Editorial photoshoots
• Modeling agencies

This career is perfect for those who thrive under pressure and enjoy artistic challenges.

8. Freelance Artist or Mobile Stylist

As a freelance artist or mobile stylist, you have the freedom to set your schedule and work in various locations. This flexibility makes it a popular choice for cosmetologists who value independence.

What You’ll Do:

• Provide on-site beauty services for events.
• Build your own client base.
• Manage your own business operations.

Where You Can Work:

• Clients’ homes
• Destination weddings
• Photoshoots or film sets

Freelancing allows you to tailor your services to fit your lifestyle while meeting the needs of diverse clients.

Why Choose Phagans School of Hair Design?

At Phagans School of Hair Design, we don’t just teach you the skills to pass your licensing exams—we prepare you for a career in the beauty industry. Our extensive curriculum, hands-on training, and experienced instructors help you explore all the career possibilities cosmetology has to offer. Plus, our career services team provides support in job placement and networking, which can set you up for long-term success.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

If you’re excited about the opportunities a cosmetology career can provide, Phagans School of Hair Design is here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our programs, schedule a tour, or start your application process. 

Let’s create a beautiful future together!