Finally What You Need!

If you are considering becoming a cosmetologist, you must first select the best beauty school to attend. there are thousands of beauty schools/cosmetology colleges in the United States. So, how do you go about determining which school would be the best cosmetology school for you? The following questions are great ideas for you to ask beauty school recruiters…

What To Ask the Beauty School Recruiters
or Admissions Directors


(1) Is your college accredited?

(1) Why you should ask this question: Accredited colleges follow high standards and keep track of important statistics such as how many students pass their state board exams; how many of their students actually finish college; and how many students get jobs within 6 months after graduating.

(2) How many students who complete your course pass the State Licensure exam?


(2) Why you should ask this question: A high percentage would mean that the college in question will focus on helping you not only to graduate, but to pass the licensure exam in your state as well.



(3) How many of your graduates who pass their Licensure exam obtain employment?


(3) Why you should ask this question: Many cosmetology colleges don’t place individuals with an employer. However, if it is an accredited college, they still have to keep statistics on how many graduates find employment. A high average indicates that the college in question has a great reputation among employers in the area. A high average would also indicate that graduates were trained well in interviewing and people skills.

(4) What are your enrollment requirements?

(4) Why you should ask this question:
There may be different enrollment and entrance requirements for many schools. Some will require that you have your high school diploma or GED, while others will require that you have completed a certain amount of your high school education. Some colleges will require an enrollment fee up front, while others will not. Even if you have all ready made up your mind as to which college to attend it is good to have a list of these requirements so that you will be prepared on the date of your enrollment.

(5) Can I come for a tour of your college?


(5) Why you should ask this question:
You can find out many things over the telephone about a college. But don’t make up your mind until you have toured 2 or 3 colleges that you have narrowed your choices down to. A simple 10 to 20 minute visit will give you knowledge a telephone conversation could never offer. Such as: is the college in a good location (easy access, crime rate, etc) Do the students there look busy – content – professional – ethnically diverse? Is there a display of the books you’ll be studying, and equipment you’ll be using? How old or new is the facility and equipment? Is the clinic floor busy with customers? As you can see, this list could go on and on. The visual information you will acquire on a tour is incredibly valuable. A tour could change your mind.

More Questions You May Want to Ask

Are all costs included in the tuition?

Is there financial aid available?

Are there any up-front fees I need to know about?

Is there an entrance exam?

What grade average do I need to maintain to graduate?

Do you have an attendance policy?

What would be my weekly schedule?

How large are the classes?

What can you tell me about the instructors?

When was the college established?

What curriculum do you teach?

Can you mail me information on your school?

Do you have a website?

Do you have part time and evening classes?

(Question) Who Else Can Provide You
With Crucial Information?


(Answer) Local Salons and Day Spas.

Call Salons, Day Spas, and Beauty Corporations and ask:

Which cosmetology schools do they recommend?


Which cosmetology schools do they prefer to hire from?


Why do they prefer to hire from specific schools?


Where did they attend school?


Did they feel they received sufficient training?

Why are individuals who have bachelor’s and master’s degrees – or people who are all ready in a successful career always coming to me for advice about attending Cosmetology College? I have talked to nurses, successful real estate agents, dance instructors, web designers, sociologists, police officers, flight attendants, construction workers, massage therapists, office managers and even one psychologist! Why? Usually it is because of one of the following reasons:

1. They are bored or run down in their current profession in spite of how successful they are – and want to have a career they believe they will enjoy instead.

2. They want to become salon/spa owners and feel it would be wise to be able to perform cosmetology services themselves.

3. They have been laid-off and are seeking a career where their services will always be in demand.

4. They know someone who is a cosmetologist who is successful, working flexible hours, owns nice things, and loves their career, and they said “Hmmm, if they can do it, why can’t I?”

5. They dreamed of being a cosmetologist from the first time they styled Barbie’s hair. They wanted to attend beauty school right after graduating high school but their parents insisted they attend a 4 year college. After years of doing what someone else wanted – now they are ready for their dream career!

Yes, being a cosmetologist can mean having a dream career. Everyone’s dream may be a little different, but just think about it. Out of the following choices, which one would be your dream career? Barbering (the community hub, stimulating discussions, and the ability to shave – not just cut hair), Beauty Educator, Beauty Journalist / Writer (make a difference in this world, and say it with beauty and grace), Braiding Specialist, Competition Stylist, Cosmetic Product Design (have a little cosmetologist and scientist in you?), Cosmetic Product Distributor, Cometician, Cosmetology College Recruiter, Cruise Line Esthetician or Cruise Line Hair Stylist (feel like docking in some exotic places?), Esthetician / Aesthetician (provide beauty services for the full body – body wraps, cellulite treatments, facials, microderm, waxing, etc), Extension / Hair Addition Specialist (high-dollar repeat clients and you can be so creative…), Eyelash Extension Specialist (hot and trendy!), Facialist (spread well-being and beauty), Fantasy Makeup Artist/Stylist, Franchise owner , Hairdresser (help people feel good about themselves), Image Advisor / Public Relations, Makeup Consultant, Modeling Hair Stylist / Makeup Artist, Motivational Speaker, Mortuary Hairstylist (make around $40 per hairstyle, and your client is forever at peace with the end result), Nail Technician (good money, fun and creative, clients faithfully return), Natural Hair Stylist (help others with the health and vitality of their own natural hair while giving them a great hair-style), Pageant Stylist / Makeup Artist (glamour, fashion, beauty, fast-paced, fun, wow!), Permanent Makeup Artist (make $200.00 to $600.00 or more per service when you rent or own your own space), Platform Artist, Salon/Spa Receptionist, Salon Manager (be a leader, increase your earnings, help others to succeed), Salon Owner (the sky is the limit with this one!), Resort Stylist (need I say more than that?), Sales Distributor (potential for high income), Stage Makeup Artist/Stylist (didn’t you dream of this one when you were a young girl or boy?), State Board Inspector of Cosmetology Colleges (are you a rule enforcer anyway? This one may be for you), Show / Event Coordinator / Stylist (for creative multi-taskers who can motivate, sell, and bring everything together as everyone else watches in awe), Spa Manager (imagine going to work every day to relaxing music, aromatherapy in the air, clients who always come and go with a smile, and so much more…), Spa Owner (Cha-Ching!), Stylist/Makeup Artist for Magazine Advertising, Television Cable Hair Stylist / Makeup Artist, Web Designer For Salons or Beauty Schools!

Now, I must ask you. Are you still dreaming? You don’t have to. Start your dream career in cosmetology today by researching the best beauty schools in your area and get them to contact you about the details. Go to www.finallywhatyouneed.com to get started – or our sister site www.hottestbeautyschools.com. What are you waiting for? If you just keep doing what you’ve always done, you will keep getting what you’ve always gotten.

As an aesthetician in cosmetology college, you will learn all about the skin which is the largest organ of the body. Everyone has skin! You know what that means? There should always be jobs in the esthetics industry. You will also learn product knowledge and learn how to promote retail sales during your time in the student clinic environment. These skills are important to develop while you are attending school, because after you graduate a decent amount of your commission can be made through retail sales! Don’t ever be timid about selling to your clients. It isn’t hard. Just mention how great their skin would look with a certain product, how someone else you knew used it and they were elated with the results… Little hints here and there during their visit – then you can leave it up to them to suggest their own purchase (that is a soft-sell)!

A great deal of your clients are going to be over the age of 35 in the spa environment. Many of them will be concerned with the effects of aging on their skin. They will look to you for advice on skin care, product knowledge, and you will keep them coming back week after week as long as you took all of your training seriously while in school.

At www.finallywhatyouneed.com, we are firm believers in getting started early in obtaining knowledge about the beauty industry. So? You are not over 35 yet and don’t feel the need to learn all about the effects of aging on your skin? You might want to rethink your strategy if that is so. Look around. How many people do you know all ready who are over 35? Your mother, aunts, co-workers, and don’t your friends have mothers, aunts and co-workers all over 35, too? Get started researching skin care now, if you are going to be an esthetician and be ready to impress your instructor in beauty school! Besides, it is never too early (never-ever) to begin to protect your beautiful young skin from the brutal onslaught of the aging process.

The aging process begins when we enter the world and the effects of aging are evident in our bodies through out our lives. Beginning in our 20’s, the signs of aging start to become noticeable. Genetically programmed chronologic aging causes changes in collagen and elastin, the connective tissues that supply firmness and elasticity to the skin. The genetic program of individuals is different, so the loss of skin firmness and elasticity occurs at different rates and different times in one individual as compared to another. As skin becomes less elastic, it also becomes drier and underlying fat padding begins to disappear. With the loss of underlying support by fat padding and connective tissues, the skin begins to sag; it appears less supple and wrinkles form.

Although wrinkles, lines and age spots are formed by the natural effects of getting older, one way to prevent them from appearing early on in life is to avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreens with SPFs 15 or higher. And, although most of us have some form of sun-damaged skin, there are ways to regain healthy, smooth skin. After many years of research, scientists, dermatologists and plastic surgeons have discovered that a variety of natural ingredients and vitamin extracts significantly help slow down and even reverse the signs of aging skin. These ingredients are now found in many physician developed and physician recommended anti-aging skin care products, which are specified below.

Vitamin A (Retinol) – Topical Vitamin A has been suggested to help build collagen fibers within the skin in addition to its more superficial exfoliating property. This is the basis for its use in minimizing the appearance of fine wrinkle lines. Vitamin A or Retinol is the main ingredient found in TYK Young Again, M.D. Forte, DDF and SkinScience products.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C or ascorbic acid acts as an antioxidant and is considered vital in wound healing because it aids in stabilizing collagen. When applied topically, vitamin C can reduce fine lines and wrinkles and may lessen the severity of sunburns. This healing ingredient is found in SkinCeuticals, Cellex C and Obagi Cffectives skin care products.

Vitamin E – Vitamin E is another antioxidant that shows to have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. When applied topically, vitamin E has been shown to improve moisturization, softness and smoothness and also provides modest photo protection. Vitamin E is found in Cellex C, Exuviance and MD Forte products.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) – AHAs are designed to smooth fine lines and surface wrinkles, to improve skin texture and tone, to unblock and cleanse pores, to improve oily skin or acne, and to improve skin condition in general. AHAs are the main ingredients found in MD Forte, TYK Young Again, Super Skin and SkinScience products.

Glycolic Acid – Glycolic acid is the most active and beneficial of the Alpha-Hydroxy-Acids (AHAs) in skin care. Once inside the cells, the acid triggers new formations of collagen to plump cells and the ground substances in the skin to reduce wrinkles on the skin’s surface. Glycolic acid is proven to be very effective in the treatment of acne as well as in cosmetic uses. Glycolic acid is found in products by Gly Derm, MD Forte, Z. Bigatti and Super Skin.

N-6 furfuryladenine (kinetin) – The nature-identical plant growth factor, furfuryladenine, retards the aging of plant cells as well as in vitro human skin fibroblasts. This natural, anti-aging ingredient has been proven to reduce wrinkles and fine lines and is exclusively found in Kinerase creams and lotions. This is a proven alternative for people with sensitive skin or people who are sensitive to products containing Retinol and Vitamin C.
Copper Peptides are the latest scientific breakthrough in skin rejuvenation. Copper has been found to naturally firm the skin, enhance elasticity, and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Copper is the main ingredient in products by Neova and Osmotics.

Pal-KTTKS – Pal-KTTKS is an effective ingredient for reducing fine lines and wrinkles. It’s found to promote a smoother, younger complexion quickly, without with out expensive and painful chemical peels, surgery or injections. This patented peptide solution is found in StriVectin-SD.

Green Tea Extract – Green tea’s anti-inflammatory and anti-growth qualities are found in many skin care products designed to reduce the appearance of puffiness, wrinkles, fine lines and large pores. Green Tea is found in the Dr. Brandt skin care line, Z. Bigatti and Gly Derm products.

TNS – The biotechnology of the skin’s natural healing process has arrived with the first tissue repairing complex containing growth factors found in normal, healthy skin. Unlike anything else currently on the market, TNS is the next level of skin rejuvenation that delivers dramatic results, for smoother, softer, younger looking skin. TNS is found in SkinMedica’s TNS Recovery Complex.

Many customers ask which anti-aging product is best and we always respond by saying that there is no best product. Since every individuals skin is different, the results of using anti-aging products will be different as well. We recommend that you consult with a skin care professional prior to use of any new skin care product to determine your skin type, skin condition and possible sensitivities to active ingredients. Your skin care professional may recommend specific products, or you can try a few on your own based on your consultation. If you are not happy with the first product you try, try another one. It’s important that you choose a product and skin care regimen that makes you feel 100% comfortable with the look and feel of your skin.

The Benefits of Massage in the Salon and Spa

There are several types of massage taught in cosmetology colleges. There is hand and arm massage during a manicure and foot and leg massage during a pedicure. Scalp massage is offered in many salons and barber shops – not to mention a person’s scalp is being massaged whenever they are at the shampoo bowl in a salon. In some states, Estheticians can perform massage due to being licensed to treat the full body, (however, they cannot call themselves massage therapists without that certification) allowing them to perform manual facial massage, reflexology, Swedish full body massage, Acupressure massage, aromatherapy massage, lymphatic drainage massage, chair massage, vibratory massage and some more creative services like stone massage. Those services are fast becoming a part of courses offered at many beauty colleges due to the easy integration of massage services with cosmetology services offered in salon/day spas.

Sports massage, deep tissue massage and therapeutic massage should not be performed without a massage therapy certification. In some territories and states, beauty schools can offer massage therapy courses.

Of course, there are some safety cautions to consider when performing massage in the Salon and/or Spa. Do not massage if the client has high blood pressure, heart condition, or has had a stroke. Massage increases circulation and may be harmful to this type of client. Have such a client consult with their physician before performing massage. Also, be careful to avoid vigorous massage of joints if a client has arthritis. Be certain to communicate with the client throughout the massage and adjust your touch to the client’s needs. Some clients will need a softer touch, while others will not feel relaxed unless more pressure is applied.

Some of the benefits of massage are listed below:

It is possible for massage to relieve pain because of the relaxing effect the massage has on tense muscles.

Massage nourishes, strengthens and firms muscle fiber.

Massage soothes nerves making the client feel regenerated and invigorated.

Massage promotes warmth by increasing blood supply and circulation.

Massage reduces fat cells in the subcutaneous tissue which helps firm the client’s skin and underlying tissue.

Massage nourishes the skin, by bringing oxygen by way of stimulation of blood circulation. Oxygen is vital to cell growth, and carries away waste products and carbon dioxide.

Massage makes the skin softer and more pliable.

Massage manipulations can aid in depleting fluids in tissues.

Massage can help to reduce puffy or sagging areas.

Massage improves the appearance of the skin. It increases the production of sebum, which helps to regulate moisture content of cells. The moisture helps the skin retain a dewy, youthful appearance and improves the skin’s texture.

Massage loosens and helps to clear away dead surface cells and other debris, revealing healthier skin underneath.

And my favorite: Massage retards aging of the skin!

To obtain proper results from a massage, the Cosmetologist, Manicurist, Pedicurist, Massage Therapist, or Esthetician must have a thorough knowledge of all the structure involved. They must study the anatomy of muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. Almost every muscle and nerve has a motor point. Clients have different body structures – so the position of motor points will vary on different clients. Your course of study will enable you to understand massage and the proper application of massage in order to maximize the Salon or Spa experience and keep them coming back week after week.

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Massage in the Salon and Spa – Quiz

This quiz has 10 questions worth 100 total points. Once you have completed the quiz, you may review the answers and take it again.

When studying hair removal techniques in cosmetology college, you will probably learn about the structure of the skin and hair; the stages of hair growth; the functions of the skin; skin diseases and disorders; allergy based skin diseases, hormonal induced skin disorders; skin cancer, and more. You will also be taught how to perform a professional consultation; hygiene treatment; postreatment care; product chemistry and, well – you get the picture. There is more to hair removal than you had previously realized, isn’t there? What a person perceives about cosmetology as a client is vastly different than what a licensed cosmetologist knows. You will be extremely proud of your new-found comprehension when you leave beauty school!

Of course, you will obtain a large amount of hands-on training in beauty school, also. One of your subjects studied will most likely include hair removal. You will learn methods of Depilation and Epilation. Depilation is removal of hair to the level of the skin which lasts several hours to several days and can be achieved by shaving, depilatories (chemicals) and Friction (buffing). Epilation includes tweezing, waxing, sugaring, threading, electrology and laser hair removal, to name a few. Most beauty schools have hands-on training in tweezing techniques and waxing. You may also have a little theory that includes information on the other techniques listed. A few schools may even offer a course in electrology (you may have to travel to another state for electrology training). Usually laser hair removal is taught by the company marketing the laser machine, and only after you have obtained your esthetician or cosmetician license. A brief look at several different hair removal techniques performed by licensed beauty or barber school graduates follows:

Shaving:

Shaving is the most traditional method of removing unwanted hair. Whether hair removal is done with a straight razor or a triple-blade Schick, only Barbers are licensed to shave in this industry.

Tweezing:

Tweezers are metal forceps used manually to pull hairs out by the root. Tweezing will be taught in beauty school. You will learn to arch eyebrows and tweeze other unwanted hair. The cosmetology student will learn to always make sure their tool is sharp and sanitary to prevent infections and ingrown hairs. Tweezing can be a tedious procedure for large areas.

Waxing:

It is very possible you will learn to wax in beauty school. Waxing is the longest-lasting temporary hair removal technique available. When wax is warm, it enters the follicle, allowing the hair to be pulled out from the root. You will probably learn to perform the waxing technique on other students. Eyebrows, armpits, arm hair, and leg hair are all areas you may practice on your peers – and they will practice on you – before you begin performing waxing in the student salon. If your skin is hyper-sensitive, or prone to breakouts or allergic reactions, be certain to alert your instructor before student partners are assigned.


You Tube – eyebrow waxing demo

Threading:

Threading, also called fatlah or khite, involves a twisted thread that catches hairs as it is rolled across the skin. The threading method is very popular in Middle East countries as well as India and Pakistan. Thread, usually cotton thread, is twisted and rolled along the surface of the skin. As the thread twists it entangles the hairs, pulling them out of the follicle. Your cosmetology book on hair removal techniques may include some information on threading. Hands-on training may not be taught for this method in beauty school.

Sugaring:

Sugaring is an ancient middle-eastern practice which uses an all natural paste or gel made from food-derived ingredients like sugar, water, and lemon juice to remove the hair follicle from the root. The results can last up to six weeks. While there are many recipes, only natural ingredients are used in real sugaring. Sugaring with the paste is considered the traditional technique. A thick, warmed mixture is applied, using the hands, first in the opposite direction of hair growth and next in the direction of hair growth. It’s then flicked off in the direction of hair growth.
Sugaring with the gel is similar to waxing. The gel is applied in the direction of hair growth and removed in the opposite direction. Your cosmetology textbook on hair removal techniques may include some information on sugaring. Hands-on training may not be taught for this method in beauty school.

Electrolysis:

Electrolysis is a time-tested method that was invented more than 100 years ago to remove irritating, in-grown eyelash hairs. Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the eyebrows, neck, legs, abdomen, breasts, and bikini line. This procedure uses low-level electricity and a very fine needle-shaped electrode or metal probe inserted into each hair follicle to kill, or render inactive, the hair follicles. Multiple sessions are needed to attack the hair in the growth phase for electrolysis hair removal to be most effective.
Electrolysis has the best overall results, versus any other method, in ridding hair for long periods of time- or even permanently. Many different hair and skin types can benefit because it doesn’t target hair pigment (color) like laser, but attacks the follicle itself. People that aren’t good candidates for laser can still get electrolysis. Very few beauty schools offer instruction in electrolysis, but there are some.

Laser:

Laser is the most modern technique for hair removal. The ideal candidate for laser work has fair skin and dark hair, but darker-skinned women can have good results with an experienced laser practitioner. For the most part, laser hair removal is not very effective on light blonde or white hair. This service is usually performed in dermatologist and plastic surgeon’s offices or medi-spas where a physician or nurse is always present. Beauty consultants and estheticians can perform laser treatments for hair removal while working under the physician’s license. Training is usually provided by the physician or the company that markets the laser machine used in that office.


Although laser hair removal is often billed as permanent, a more realistic expectation is that your client will see a 50 to 70 per cent reduction of hair after three treatments, performed six weeks apart. On facial areas, maintenance treatments are usually necessary for complete removal. Because laser rays can penetrate deeply, this type of hair removal treatment should be avoided on the eyebrows and in between the eyes. Tweezing, waxing or electrolysis are the choices for that particular area.

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Hair Removal – Quiz

This quiz has 10 questions worth 100 total points. Once you have completed the quiz, you may review the answers and take it again.

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About Accredited Colleges

Accreditation of schools is the most respected and trustworthy indicator of a school’s concern for integrity toward its students and superior education.

Schools that are accredited have met national standards of educational performance which have been determined by a neutral
non-governmental agency. Also, accreditation allows some schools to participate in financial aid programs for students who qualify. Accredited cosmetology colleges are required to reveal school performance facts and statistics to all new enrollees. Not only must they reveal these statistics to new enrollees, but these colleges must keep the statistics at a reasonable percentage (such as how many students graduate, pass their licensure exam, and obtain employment). If the statistics percentage falls below a certain average, the college could lose it’s accreditation. Accredited cosmetology colleges are likely to provide new enrollees with their campus security plan and reveal important statistics on crimes that have been committed on campus. Accredited cosmetology schools are audited on a regular basis by the accrediting commission.

“The National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts & Sciences is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the national accrediting agency for cosmetology schools.”

NACCAS is recognized under the provisions of Chapter 33, Title 38, U.S. Code and subsequent legislation.

Click here for Links to the BEST Beauty Schools in the U.S.

About Non-accredited Colleges

Non accredited colleges may not have to follow the high standards that have been set by NACCAS. There are some good non-accredited cosmetology colleges. Also, beauty schools in some states in the U.S. have to follow very high standards set forth by their state’s governing body over post secondary education. To find out who they are, you may want to call at least 10 local salons and spas in your area to see where professionals in the industry recommend that you attend cosmetology school. If the name of a non-accredited college consistently gets their recommendation then you can feel at ease about choosing that college. See the Questions page for a list of questions you can ask the admissions director of any school you are considering.

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Will You Choose the Best Beauty School – Quiz

This quiz has 8 questions worth 100 total points. Once you have completed the quiz, you may review the answers and take it again.

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One of the benefits of being in the cosmetology industry – a career of fashion, glamour and beauty – is that you are in charge of your own success. Yes, you may work in a salon, you might answer to an owner or a supervisor and deal with other beauticians, estheticians, and hairstylists – but the truth is, YOU are in control of your own success.

Essentially you are really an entrepreneur, and with that there is the responsibility of taking ownership of your own successes and failures. Need help? Ask for guidance from those who are all ready successful in the industry. Also, read Industry magazines, research the Internet and use all these tools to help you start marketing yourself. The power is in your hands to make your business successful.

Network with everyone around you: clients, co-workers, educators, managers, family, clubs, people in line with you at the grocery store! Be sure to vary your own look on a regular basis. This will encourage your clients to try new, innovative styles. You are your own walking billboard, and your clients are your walking AND talking billboards. There is no better advertisement than word-of-mouth; now add the visual effect of gorgeous hairstyles to word-of-mouth recommendations and that places your client/billboard at the top of the world for all to see and hear!

Remember technology can also help you spread the word about your career. Do not ignore the power of Facebook, Twitter and other networking sites.

The last word of advice on this article is to get started building your business WHILE YOU ARE STILL IN BEAUTY SCHOOL. Build your clientele – in beauty school. Collect all the innovative business ideas you can from likeminded students around you. Pay CLOSE attention to your instructors, and especially the school owners (who are obviously successful – or you wouldn’t be there). So, here’s to you aspiring entrepreneur! Seize the day.

Article inspired by Kathy Jager, author of As The Chair Turns

In Cosmetology College, students spend much time practicing hands-on training with mannequins and with clients from the beauty school’s student salon. With every aspect of hands-on training, the student will also study theory subjects that are relative. For instance, before you begin to perform color services on your mannequin or client, you will need to understand the anatomy and chemistry that will be involved with that process. Many hairdressing students are all ready talented and creative with hair – they may have always been the one who ended up styling half a dozen updos for prom night. Or, they have been experimenting with their family member’s hair since they were in elementary school. But – in order to pass the state board licensing exam, these talented aspiring stylists will also need to understand the anatomy and chemistry involved in hair dressing. They may have to understand what the degrees of decolorization are, what the apex is, and what that particular state’s laws regarding cosmetology are. Below, are some examples of definitions a student may learn in beauty school. Go briefly over them, then take the short quiz at the end to see how fun cosmetology theory can be.

Apex: the highest point or summit; in cosmetology this is the top of one’s head.

Arcing: A razor technique which removes length by moving the cutting tool in a curve suggestive of an arc.

Bevel: A technique in which the ends of hair are tapered on top or underneath in order to influence the form line to cup up or under.

Celestial Sphere: In cosmetology this refers to a measurement system which has dimension of depth as well as width and height that establishes the levels of space that surround the head.

Degrees of decolorization: The series or steps of decolorization the hair goes through as the melanin changes in a scale of intensity.

Esthetician: A specialist in or devotee of esthetics and beauty; an individual who practices the work of cleaning and beautifying the skin (also aesthetician).

Etching: A razor technique where length is removed with a brief stroke of the razor; executed on the ends of the hair.

Notching: Procedures used to create irregular hair lengths, mainly for the appearance of a chunky texture.

Keratin: A protein responsible for 97 percent of the makeup of hair.

Law of color: Out of all the colors in the universe, only the three colors of red, yellow and blue, are pure.

Piggyback perms: Perm tactic that places two rods along a single strand of hair; intended for long hair in order to safeguard complete saturation of the chemical solution.

Switch: Commercial hair mounted on a loop base with one to three swatches of hair, mainly worn as a braid or ponytail.

Whorl: In cosmetology this refers to the growth of hair in a substantial circular direction on either side of the crown or the nape.

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Cosmetology Definitions & Facts – Quiz

This quiz has 10 questions worth 100 total points. Once you have completed the quiz, you may review the answers and take it again.

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While tattooing is an ancient practice, cosmetic tattooing applied with the purpose of becoming permanent makeup – also known as micropigmentation, dermal pigmentation, and permanent cosmetics – is fast becoming a popular modern remedy for smudging eyeliner, bleeding lipstick, and uncontrollable eyebrows. But what most people don’t realize is that permanent makeup is a wonderful cosmetic procedure for cancer patients who have lost their hair. For them, very natural looking eyebrows and eyelash enhancers are a God-send. For those with Breast reconstruction – just having color implanted for an areola is incredibly uplifting.

The application of micropigmentation is a unique combination of artistic ability and technical skill. To create the most natural results, technique, placement, color, artistry and good judgment are paramount. Specialized instruments allow the permanent makeup practitioner to place color into the layer of skin known as the dermis. The Client is fully aware during a procedure, instructing the technician where to implant the pigmentation for the permanent makeup. There is little discomfort with most procedures in which a topical anesthetic may be applied. There is a wide range of colors a client may choose from. Because the outermost layer of skin, the epidermis, is always shedding and renewing itself, the color is viewed through a thin veil of skin. Because the color is placed ‘in’ the skin and not ‘on’ the skin a natural, soft look results. Following a micropigmentation procedure, in most cases, there will be slight swelling and redness of skin, which will subside quickly. Normal activities can be resumed immediately following the procedure. Normal healing is a process with final results not fully realized for at least two weeks. Traditional makeup can be applied over permanent makeup.

WHO BENEFITS FROM PERMANENT MAKEUP?

Men as well as women benefit from permanent cosmetics. Also, busy people with little time to apply makeup; people with allergies to conventional makeup skin sensitivities; anyone who desires the freedom and convenience from daily makeup application; athletic people and those with oily skin who tend to shed makeup easily; burn survivors and people with flaws in their skin; entertainers; actresses; models – such as Elizabeth Taylor, Dolly Parton, Racquel Welch, Cher and others. Chemotherapy patients find that eyeliner, eyelash enhancement, and brows can lift their spirits during very difficult cancer treatments. Other special needs for permanent makeup include scars, vitiligo, alopecia or other health problems. Also, the vision impaired who have difficulty applying their own cosmetics, and others with motor impairments such as arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke survivors.

IS PERMANENT MAKEUP REALLY PERMANENT?

Technically, permanent cosmetics procedures are considered permanent because the color is implanted into the upper reticular part of the dermal layer of the skin and cannot be washed or rubbed off. However, fading can and often does occur as with any tattoo. Periodic maintenance, color re-enhancement or color refreshing is desirable every one to two years.

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Permanent Makeup – Quiz

This quiz has 10 questions worth 100 total points. Once you have completed the quiz, you may review the answers and take it again. The information for this quiz was taken from this webpage.

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Aromatic liquid matter, known as essential oils are extracted from a variety of flowers, leaves, roots, trees, fruits and grasses. The Egyptians were the first known to invent ways of extracting the aromatic liquids through distillation, and distillation is still the preferred method of extracting essential oils in modern times.

The earliest known cosmetics and spa treatments incorporated the use of essential oils in ancient Egypt. Aromatherapy was also included in the ancient Egyptian religious rituals, burial rites, and mummification. Elaborate systems for bathing used by the Egyptians, were later adopted by the Greeks and Romans. It is known that public baths with heated floors were a major form of entertainment centuries ago. One past practice involved men and women undressing in different rooms, then walking through a series of about five rooms. Each room became hotter and hotter until the sweat dripped off them. Then they scraped off the sweat with a sickle-like knife. Next, they slathered themselves with light oil before immersing in what was called the bath-proper. The baths had restaurants, meeting rooms, and even exercise rooms. Everyone wore tunics there. It was a social gathering and lovely practice of the earliest form of pampering.

Today, cosmetic manufacturers understand and use essential oils (or chemical copies) in their cell-rejuvenating, age defying, and beautifying products. The perfume industry uses them for their fragrance as well as essential oil’s emotion and mood enhancing properties. Also, many essential oils are the active ingredient in prescribed drugs or the inspiration for man-made chemicals used in pharmaceuticals. Many of those pharmaceuticals are for the treatment of hair, nails, and skin.

Here are a few examples of where you will find essential oils used in salon and spa products:

Shampoos

Scalp Stimulators

Hair Conditioning Treatments

Facial Masks

Hair Masks

Paraffin wax

Facial & Body Creams

Mud Body Masks

Cuticle Softeners

Cream Makeup

Lip Balms & Treatments

Facial Saunas

Skin Cleansers and Toners

Body Massage Oils

Pedi-Spas

Exfoliators

Hair Growth Stimulators

Aromassage, which uses essential oils along with massage, can be performed on hands and arms during a manicure, feet and legs during a pedicure, and at the base of the neck to the base of the scalp as a complimentary service at a barber shop or salon. Full body massage frequently includes such relaxing essential oils like Lavender, which also has a great reputation for toning.

Some other examples of aromatherapy follow: Chamomile essential oil aids in moisturizing the skin and promotes granulation and cell regeneration. Carrot Seed essential oil revitalizes and tones, and is considered one of the best essential oils for removing toxin and water build up in the skin giving the skin a fresher more firm appearance. Neroli essential oil, derived from the blossoms of the bitter orange tree, increases circulation and stimulates new cell growth, can prevent scarring and stretch marks, useful in treating skin conditions linked to emotional stress, is good for dry, irritated or sensitive skin, regulates oiliness and minimizes enlarged pores, helps to clear acne and blemished skin, especially if the skin lacks moisture. With regular treatment, it can reduce the appearance of fragile or broken capillaries and varicose veins. Balsam essential oil, collected from wild trees along the ‘Balsam Coast’ of El Salvador, is believed to promote growth of epithelial cells, is good for chapped skin and poor circulation; a wonderful moisturizer.

Ylang ylang, a sweet-exotic-floral essential oil, is known to enhance relaxation in the salon and spa, but did you know that ylang ylang is also amazing in hair as well as skin care products? Ylang ylang was a popular ingredient of hair preparations in historic Europe. In skin care it is useful with products for oily skin. Also, due to its ability to anchor perfumes and blend with a variety of other scents, ylang ylang oil is primarily used by fragrance manufactures today. It is even considered to be an aphrodisiac and evokes feelings of deep, languid calm that melt away anxiety, tension and stress. It is no wonder, that in Indonesia, ylang ylang flower petals are strewn upon the bed of newlywed couples. It is also believed to lower blood pressure in some individuals. So, it is no surprise that such a potent aromatherapy is used in salons and spas across the world.

Aromatherapy may be included in part of your beauty school education while studying chemicals and products. If so, you will most definitely learn that most essential oils in the pure state are extremely concentrated and should not be used directly on the skin without being diluted in a base. Base oils are nut oils, seed oils, or vegetable oils – such as sweet almond, avocado, coconut, jojoba, grapeseed, olive, carrot, and sesame oil (among many others). In ancient days gone by, and even in Arabian countries in modern times, these types of oils provide a standard method of cleansing. The Romans massaged oils into their skin and then scraped the oil off – along with the dirt. Facials and Body wraps performed in salons and spas use this same cleansing concept.

If you have the opportunity to study a little aromatherapy, you will learn that essential oils will have a synergistic effect when combining more than one essential oil in a blend. Mixing two or more essentials oil will create a chemical compound that varies from any of the component parts and the compound is very potent. The proportions must be correct, however as even a minuscule amount of one oil, is integral to the whole synergetic blend. That being said, there are some essential oils that should never be used under any circumstances. Some of those oils are: bitter almond, boldo leaf, calamus, yellow camphor, horseradish, jaborandi leaf, mugwort, mustard, pennyroyal, rue, sassafras, savin, southernwood, tansy, thuja, wintergreen, wormseed, and wormwood. All essential oils should be used with care as even the most pleasurable aromatherapy may cause sensitivity in a few people, while other essential oils should not be used while pregnant or lactating. This is one reason why is it very important to study aromatherapy before incorporating it in your salon and spa practices. It is also another reason why it is so important for beauty school students to learn the chemistry and anatomy of the skin, hair, and whole body.


When used safely and correctly, however, essential oils are, well – ESSENTIAL – to the world of pampering, glamour and beauty!

Needless to say, I am not just a firm believer in the potency of essential oils, but I am a daily benefactor of the therapies. Every evening and every morning, I include a drop of chamomile in my facial lotion. My skin feels moist all day long. If I don’t use it – dry, tight skin. But, another benefit of the chamomile is that it somehow gives my skin an amazing refreshing feeling. A side benefit I wasn’t even looking for – I have had far less colds since I began using the chamomile several years ago. When I do seem to be getting a cold, I put a few drops of cinnamon leaf and eucalyptus into a tissue and inhale it 5 to 10 times whenever I think of it during the day. My colds last only a few short days when everyone else’s last 2 to 3 weeks. Those are only a couple of uses. I have a small wine refrigerator where I store my oils year round so they will always be at room temperature and I will have these lovely ancient remedies at my fingertips. I recommend them to everyone who is willing to delve into the books and discover the benefits, and uses of aromatherapy. The very best book I have found is:

The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy: Over 600 Natural, Non-Toxic and Fragrant Recipes to Create Health – Beauty – a Safe Home Environment

I have read this book from cover to cover and go back to it again and again. And much of the information for this article was obtained from that book. Essential oils are truly potent, so you really do not want to start using them without guidance. This book is very informative, interesting, and full of useful directions. It is a must have.

Another “must have” is guidance when choosing the very best beauty school, cosmetology college, aesthetics school, barbering college, etc to attend. I am so grateful to say that next week, I will be launching hundreds of new pages on the website www.finallywhatyouneed.com which contain the ability to contact the best beauty schools in the United States. Spread the word – its almost here!