Salon professionals are men and women who specialize in providing beauty services such as hairdressing, manicures, facials, skincare, and massages. Most experts work in beauty parlors, nail salons, hair salons, and spas, and see clients on both an appointment and walk-in basis. A salon worker relies on his or her detailed knowledge of fashion trends, popular hair styles, and cosmetology techniques to help people feel better and improve their appearances. Salon professionals in most countries are required to graduate from accredited cosmetology schools and pass written and practical exams before offering their services.
Most salon professionals specialize in the types of services they offer. Hairdressers help people decide on haircuts and styles, and perform all necessary shampooing, dyeing, trimming, and styling tasks. Many people rely entirely on their hairdressers to choose styles that are appropriate and attractive. Professionals utilize scissors, electric razors, chemical dyes, blow dryers, straightening and curling irons, and a number of other products to achieve perfect results.
Cosmetologists are salon professionals who focus on other aspects of personal hygiene and beauty. Many cosmetologists offer manicures, pedicures, and hair removal services. Manicurists and pedicurists trim, smooth, polish, and paint fingernails and toenails. Experts at hair removal might apply and remove hot wax strips or use laser electrolysis equipment to remove stubborn hairs from eyebrows, arms, and other areas of the body.
Salon professionals who offer skincare services are known as estheticians. They help to cleanse and soften skin by massaging tissue, exfoliating damaged or oily skin, and giving facials. Professionals may also apply beauty products or makeup to further improve the quality and aesthetics of skin. In some salons, estheticians and other salon professionals advise clients on safe and proper use of tanning beds and related skin-darkening products.
An individual who want to work as a salon professional in any specialty is typically required to first complete an accredited program at a cosmetology school. Programs can take anywhere from three months to one year to complete, and involve both classroom studies and clinical salon practice. A student learns the fundamentals of the job, including the tools involved, specialized techniques, and customer service skills. Practical training is important to allow students the opportunity to gain firsthand experience with actual clients. After completing a cosmetology school program, a new professional must usually work under supervision for a set number of hours and pass a written and practical exam administered by a state licensing board before operating independently.
