Beauticians includes a variety of barbers and cosmetologists, also called hairdressers and hairstylists, who help people look neat and well-groomed. Other personal appearance workers, such as manicurists and pedicurists, shampooers, and skin care specialists provide specialized services that help clients look and feel their best.
In addition to their work with clients, beauticians are expected to maintain clean work areas and sanitize all work implements. All states require barbers, cosmetologists, and most other personal appearance workers to be licensed. Qualifications for a license, however, vary. Generally, a person must have graduated from a state-licensed barber or cosmetology school and be at least 16 years old. A few states require applicants to pass a physical examination. Some states require graduation from high school while others require as little as an eighth-grade education.
Some states have reciprocity agreements that allow licensed barbers and cosmetologists to obtain a license in a different state without additional formal training. Other states do not recognize training or licenses obtained in another state; consequently, persons who wish to work in a particular state should review the laws of that state before entering a training program.
