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Possible Professions

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

UA-PTC Cosmetology School

Quick Facts About the Cosmetology Industry

  • In 2016, approximately 617,300 people were employed in Cosmetology careers.
  • A few employers in the cosmetology industry are hair salons, nail salons, spas, and resorts.
  • The employment outlook differs by occupation. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects hairstylists, manicurists, cosmetologists, and estheticians to experience job growth that is faster than the average for all occupations through 2026.

Possible Professions

Hair Stylist - A hair stylist cuts, styles, colors, curls, and straightens hair. Clients turn to him or her for advice about what styles and colors will work well for them based on their hair texture, condition and color, and complexion.

Theatrical and Performance Makeup Artist - A makeup artist uses cosmetics to enhance or change an actor’s or performer’s appearance. He or she may work with movie, television, or stage entertainers. Median annual earnings were $60,970, and median hourly wages were $29.31 in 2016.

Esthetician - An esthetician, or skincare specialist, treats the skin on people’s faces and bodies. He or she evaluates a client’s skin and applies treatments after first discussing alternatives. In 2016, estheticians earned a median annual salary of $30,270 and $14.55 per hour.

Manicurist and Pedicurist - A manicurist or pedicurist grooms clients’ fingernails or toenails. He or she cleans, trims, and files nails, and applies polish to them. One must complete a state-approved cosmetology or nail technician program and, in almost all states, get a license. Manicurists and pedicurists earned median wages of $22,150 annually and $10.65 hourly in 2016.

If you are looking for a career with a good outlook for the future and minimal educational requirements, one in cosmetology might be just right for you. Contact the Director of Cosmetology Scottie Burchett at sburchett@uaptc.edu or call (501) 602-2420 ext. 3201 to start your career in the cosmetology industry.