Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming a Cosmetologist

The beauty industry is perpetually expanding with more innovations in technology and products. There will always be a demand for a licensed cosmetologist in the beauty industry.

In this article, we’ll dive head first into the seven steps you can take to becoming a licensed cosmetologist and how you can apply that to your chosen field.

This straightforward guide will help you feel undaunted while pursuing your dream career!

Check out our infographic: “The 7 Steps to Becoming a Cosmetologist”

Evergreen Beauty College offers esthetics and cosmetology programs. Contact us for more information. 

Step one: Obtain a high school diploma or GED

Having a high school education will give students the most fundamental academic skills needed to thrive in the real world. Most state boards of cosmetology require students to have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Step two: Check the licensing requirements in your states

Many states require anyone with ambitions to become a nail technician, hair stylist, esthetician, or barber to have theoretical and practical training. They must also pass the licensing exam to become a working professional in their trade. 

Step three: Enroll in an accredited cosmetology school

Finding the right school with a state-approved cosmetology program will be the most daunting part of your pursuit of becoming a beauty industry professional. An accredited school will prepare students for their cosmetology exam. Attending a beauty school will prepare you to earn your cosmetology license and help you create a network of potential clients, business partners, and like-minded friends in the industry.

Step four: look for internships

When students immerse themselves into working with clients in the on-campus salon or begin an internship, the real magic begins. Internships are the golden ticket for any budding cosmetologist, the bridge from classroom theory to real-world practice.

With every task, whether it’s perfecting makeup application, mastering nail care, or learning the delicate art of hair coloring, you’re stacking up those crucial hours of training that no book or lecture could replicate.

This hands-on experience is where you’ll find your stride, building the confidence that will carry you into a successful career in cosmetology. Students will gain a deeper understanding of salon management and the wide range of operations that keep the artistry flowing.

A resume that includes an internship will open more job opportunities for aspiring stylists, especially if they list specific services they provide in a salon setting, including styling hair, hair removal, hair care, and coloring, and other services to clients.

Step five: prepare for the state board exam

Preparing for the state board exam is a significant step toward becoming a licensed professional in the beauty industry. Success begins with choosing a training program that meets the requirements for licensure, ensuring students accumulate the necessary training hours that cover key areas of cosmetology.

During the preparation phase, aspiring professionals refine their hair-cutting and styling skills, as these are integral parts of both the written and practical exams. The practical exam, which tests hands-on techniques and the ability to perform under pressure, is where a passion for beauty truly shines through. With dedication and comprehensive training, candidates are well-positioned to pass the exam and start their careers as licensed professionals in the field they love.

Step six: start applying for jobs

Many schools provide job boards to current students so they can start to apply for jobs and build their cosmetology careers. Taking the initiative to seek out opportunities early ensures a strong start where students can begin gaining experience and earning pay. 

Step seven: creating new looks every day

Creating new looks and honing your skills is one of the most exciting parts of a cosmetology career. It allows professionals to explore different aspects of cosmetology, from hair cutting and styling to makeup artistry, nail art, and skin care. You can stay ahead in the industry by experimenting with techniques and trends.

About Evergreen Beauty College

The difference between Evergreen and other beauty schools is our owners, staff, and faculty take an active role in making students feel like they belong and help students to look at all sides of a cutting, styling, or skincare technique and different ways to innovate trends. In the student salon, students are encouraged to build connections with clients and expand their networking opportunities at our events.

Evergreen Beauty College is a reputable cosmetology school that provides a comprehensive cosmetology education to prepare students in their field of cosmetology. By meeting the educational requirements for licensure, Evergreen’s cosmetology education programs will help students feel confident and prepared.

Our cosmetology students will gain hands-on experience and knowledge in hair styling, skincare, and makeup artistry and benefit from a curriculum designed to prepare them for the beauty industry. Evergreen’s education hours flex with you! 

Contact us for more information and schedule a visit to tour the school. 

FAQ: Step-by-step guide to becoming a cosmetologist

What are the basic requirements for becoming a cosmetologist?

Check your state licensure requirements and find an accredited school. Most schools require students to have a GED and diploma. Upon graduation, enroll for your licensing examinations. 

How long does it take to complete a cosmetology program?

A Washington State cosmetology program requires 1,600 training hours. Full-time students typically take 12 months to complete the program. 

How can you prepare for the state board exam?

The state board exam combines written and practical examinations that students will begin training for during their cosmetology training.