How to Become a Beauty Professional

Updated August 1, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

Table of Contents

Want to start a beauty career? Most cosmetology and esthetician programs can be completed in under 2 years. This guide walks you through training, licensing, salary expectations, and the best beauty school options near you.

If you love creativity, style, and helping others look and feel their best — this career might be perfect for you.

Beauty professionals do more than hair and makeup. They build confidence, create art, and work in one of the most flexible, fast-growing fields in personal care.

Beauty Professional Salary Snapshot

U.S.
U.S. Median Pay $35,250 $16.95 per hour
Job Outlook 5.6% +32,200 jobs (2024–2034)
75,800 openings/yr
Data Year: 2024 Source: BLS OEWS

What Do Beauty Professionals Do?

Beauty professionals can specialize in hair, skincare, makeup, or nails — or combine them all. Typical roles include:

  • Cosmetologists: Hair cutting, coloring, and styling
  • Estheticians: Skincare treatments, facials, and waxing
  • Nail Technicians: Manicures, pedicures, and nail art
  • Makeup Artists: Bridal, film, or special event makeup
  • Barbers: Men’s grooming and classic styling

They often work in salons, spas, resorts, or as independent freelancers.

Beauty Professionals Salary & Job Outlook

Based on BLS occupation: Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists (39-5012)
Data Year: 2024 • U.S.

Median Pay (2024) $35,250 $16.95 per hour
Job Outlook (2024–2034) 5.6% +32,200 jobs (2024–2034) • 75,800 annual openings

Mean Pay (2024)

$43,460 per year $20.89 per hour

Wage Percentiles

10th Percentile $24,580

$11.82 per hour

25th Percentile $29,060

$13.97 per hour

75th Percentile $48,300

$23.22 per hour

90th Percentile $70,220

$33.76 per hour

Employment Outlook

2024 575,200
2034 607,400

Employment: 575,200 → 607,400 jobs by 2034 (5.6%)

75,800 projected openings each year

Additional Details

Entry-Level Education
Postsecondary non-degree award
On-the-job Training
Hands-on practice and apprenticeship
Share of U.S. Employment
0.2%
Employment per 1,000 Jobs
1.92
Employment RSE
1.8%
Projected Annual Openings
75,800

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. www.bls.gov/oes

Creative professionals who build loyal clients can earn well above average, especially in high-demand areas.

How to Become a Beauty Professional (6 Steps)

  1. Finish high school or earn a GED
    Most programs require a high school diploma or equivalent.

  2. Choose your path
    Decide between cosmetology, esthetics, nail tech, or barbering. Some schools offer combined programs.

Beauty School Training Options

  1. Enroll in a state-approved beauty program
    Courses typically last 9 to 18 months, covering sanitation, anatomy, and styling techniques.

  2. Complete hands-on training
    Work with real clients under supervision to build experience.

  3. Pass your state licensing exam
    Each state has different hour requirements and tests, usually written and practical.

  4. Start your career
    Find a salon, spa, or start your own beauty business!

steps-to-become-a-beauty-professional

State Licensing Requirements

Licensing rules vary, but most states require:

  • Minimum age of 16–18
  • Completion of required training hours (1,000–1,800+)
  • Passing a written and practical exam
  • Renewal every 1–2 years

Explore your state’s guide here:
All State Licensing Pages »

Why Choose Beauty School?

Beauty school offers hands-on, career-ready training with flexible schedules and a fast track to self-employment.

Pros:

  • Creative and social work environment
  • Quick training (often under 2 years)
  • High flexibility — full-time, part-time, or freelance
  • Low startup costs to begin a career

Cons:

  • Physically demanding (standing all day)
  • Inconsistent income early on
  • Requires ongoing trend and product education

Skills That Make Great Beauty Pros

  • Artistic creativity and attention to detail
  • Communication and client service
  • Good hygiene and professionalism
  • Business and marketing sense (for salon owners)
  • Continuous learning and adaptability

Beauty is an art — and a business. The best professionals master both.

Start Your Beauty Journey

Whether you dream of working in a salon, owning your own studio, or specializing in skincare and makeup — beauty school is your first step.

Find accredited programs near you and start building your future in beauty today.

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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.