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Here is an excerpt from the Career Center:

Short Definition

According to Merriam-Webster, Cosmetology is the treatment of skin, hair and nails.

Expanded Information

Cosmetology encompasses the practices generally and usually performed by, and known as the profession of beauty culturists, cosmeticians, cosmetologists, hairdressers, or any one or a combination of practices: arranging, dressing, curling, waxing, weaving, cleansing, cutting, singeing, bleaching, coloring, or similar work upon the hair of any person, by any means, and/or with hands or mechanical or electrical apparatus or appliances, or by the use of cosmetic preparations, antiseptics, tonics, lotions, creams or otherwise, massaging, cleansing, stimulating, exercising, beautifying, or similar work on the scalp, face, neck, arms, legs, feet, hands, bust, or upper part of the body, or manicuring the nails of any person or adding nail tips, extensions, gels, or other articles to nails, or performing desairology, the art and science of dressing and arranging the hair, nails, and clothing of the deceased.

Cosmetology students learn to cut, perm, color, and design hair as well as treat damaged hair. Students also must master basic skills in esthetics and nail technology.

Entry level salaries for salon stylists are higher than salaries for most other semi-skilled jobs. Stylists who develop their own clientele or who work in upscale salons can expect even higher incomes. Talented cosmetology professionals have discovered that their license may be a stepping stone to other careers such as salon manager, hair colorist, artistic director, photo stylist, makeup artist, or educator.