What’s the Job Outlook for Cosmetologists this 2017?

If you’re just newly getting into any profession, it pays to learn what the job outlook is like for that exact line of work. Let’s say that you finished a state-approved cosmetology or aesthetician program. For 2017, what is the job outlook like? What are you supposed to expect in terms of employment prospects? And what qualities are you supposed to possess in order to succeed in your field? Find out the answers to these questions and more in the next sections.

How Do I Get into this Profession in the First Place?

Before learning about the job outlook for cosmetologists this 2017, let us first take a look at what it takes to be one. In the United States, aestheticians, cosmetologists, or skin care specialists are required to take state-approved programs. Licensing is required in most states and there are plenty of establishments where new graduates can seek job placement. Those who would like to specialize as skin care experts can work as an assistant at a dermatologist’s or plastic surgeon’s clinic. Those who would like to focus on doing hair and makeup can work at a day spa or salon. Those who like manipulating bodies for healing and relaxation purposes may work as a massage therapist at a day spa, salon, or even medical establishments.

Job Outlook for Cosmetologists this 2017

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary of graduates of cosmetology programs is around $30,000 for 2015. From 2014 to 2024, the projected job growth is 10% to 12%. This is a good enough outlook and considering the fact that the beauty industry earns billions of dollars per year, then it’s a great line of work to be in. It is also an industry that grows faster than average so your job prospects are very good if you just stepped out of a cosmetology school.

In terms of salary, the BLS says that the top five best states to work in as a cosmetologist are:

• District of Columbia
• Hawaii
• Washington
• South Carolina
• Maryland

Cosmetologists in particular have excellent job prospects because they can work pretty much anywhere. If you’re passionate about making people look good and feel good about themselves, then this might just be the line of work for you.

Next, if you are considering becoming a cosmetologist, here’s a quick look at the typical tasks you’re expected to perform each day:

• Assess a client’s hair, skin, or scalp – and recommend treatment based on the individual condition
• Come up with hairstyle or haircut options for clients
• Wash, condition, lighten, or color hair
• Perform chemical treatments that will change the natural texture of the hair
• Wash, cut, dry, style, perm, weave hair or add hair extensions
• Style wigs and hairpieces
• Recommend hair care products based on the type and condition of a client’s hair

There are also cosmetologists who does a client’s manicure, pedicure, nail art, nail maintenance, makeup, basic massages, and similar treatments offered at day spas or beauty salons.

With very good job prospects and an exciting line of work to look forward to, there’s really no reason for you to say no to starting a career as a cosmetologist.