FROM THE US DEPARTMENT OF LABOR OCCUPATIONAL OUTLOOK
HANDBOOK, 96/97 EDITION

Hair has been a center of attention since people first began to 
care about their appearance.  Throughout history a great deal
of effort has gone into acquiring a fashionable hairstyle.
Cosmetologists shampoo, cut and style hair and advise clients
on how to care for their hair.  Frequently cosmetologists 
straighten or permanent wave a client's hair to keep the style
in shape.  Cosmetologists may also lighten or darken the color
of hair, give manicures, scalp and facial treatments and provide
makeup analysis for women.

Most cosmetologists make appointments and keep records of 
hair color formulas and permanent waves used by regular clients.
Persons who want to become cosmetologists must have finger
dexterity and a sense of form and artistry.  They should enjoy
dealing with the public and be willing and able to follow a client's
instructions.  Because styles are constantly changing, cosmetologists
must keep abreast of the latest fashions and beauty techniques.  
Business skills are important for those who plan to operate their 
own salon.

Advancement usually is in the form of higher earnings as cosmetologists
gain experience and build a steady clientele, but many manage
large salons or open their own salons after several years of experience.  
Some teach in cosmetology schools or use their knowledge and
skill to demonstrate products, others become sales representatives for
cosmetics firms.

Cosmetologists generally work in clean, pleasant surroundings with
good lighting.  Their work can be arduous and physically demanding
because they must be on their feet for hours at a time and work with
their hands at shoulder level.

The occupational outlook handbook continues by reporting that
cosmetologists recieve income from commissions or wages and from
tips.  Those working on commissions usually receive between 50 and
70 percent of the money they take in.  Most cosmetologists earned
between $7 and $14 an hour in 1994.  Earnings depend on the size and
location of the shop, the number of hours worked, customers' tipping
habits, competition from other salons and the cosmetologist's ability 
to attract and hold regular customers.

Job openings for cosmetologists are expected to be plentiful through
the year 2005.  Employment of cosmetologists is expected to grow 
about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005 
in response to population growth, a greater number of women in the 
labor force and rising incomes will stimulate demand.  Cosmetologists 
will account for virtually all of the employment growth due to the growing 
demand of more personalized services.  The demand for manicurists and
cosmetologists trained in nail care will be particularly strong.  Part-time
work should also continue to grow.

Additional information about careers in cosmetology and state licensing
requirements can be obtained from:

Wards Corner Beauty Academy             National Cosmetology Association
216 E. Little Creek Road                3510 Olice Street
Norfolk, Virginia 23505                 St. Louis, MO 63103

National Accrediting Commission         National Association of Accredited
for Cosmetology Arts and Sciences       Cosmetology Schools
901 North Stuart Street, Suite 900      5201 Leesburg Pike, Suite 205
Arlington, Virginia 22203               Falls Church, Virginia 22041