Learning How to Style and Treat Hair: Making the Cut in Cosmetology School

For those who are serious about becoming a professional hair stylist, there are certain key skills that need to be mastered. Knowledge, practice and mastery of essential hair treatment practices along with styling and coloring methods are all a part of a professional cosmetology training program. Cosmetology students learn and practice proper shampoo application techniques and services on real salon guests. Training includes the use of scalp massage to promote salon guest relaxation as well as proper application of shampoos and conditioners. The hair stylist will also sometimes receive training in treating scalp problems using different conditioners for various skin types or at least be knowledgeable as to what products to recommend to their clients related to scalp care. The well trained hair stylist will know when to use which type of conditioner and also understands that the thin layer of skin beneath the hair cannot be damaged by the rinses or conditioners. Of course the core of hair stylist training is learning how to cut and style hair. Learning to cut hair includes the selection of the most appropriate tools and techniques to use for different hairstyles. Students learn how to assess a salon guest's styling preferences while taking into account their hair condition and unique facial characteristics. Cutting techniques, such as texturing, sculpting and shaping, are mastered through practical, hands-on experience. Training is also provided in proper trimming and grooming of facial hair which is a part of learning barbering skills unique to men's hair styling, such as the proper use of razors, shears, clippers and combs. Learning how to style hair also includes the use of hair styling treatments like perms, curling and hair straightening. Hair stylist students learn how to texture and shape hair according to an individual's face shape and their client's hair design preferences. At first students practice on hair mannequins or training heads that are an accurate representation of the human head with implanted hair to provide a realistic model for learning how to cut, style and treat hair. Mannequins allow the student to practice hair styling techniques to gain confidence in their skills without having to worry about causing harm or damage to the hair of a live person. Another important aspect of learning to be a hair stylist is the use of hair coloring to achieve the desired look for the salon guest. Students learn the composition, application and proper use of products and chemicals for the temporary, permanent and semi-permanent coloring and highlighting of hair. With practice, students create special color effects and unique looks with foiling, bleach & tone and color services. Also covered are techniques for removing color from skin and dyeing small portions of hair, such as eyebrows, beards, mustaches and eyelashes. Armed with the right training and optimal level of practice, students are now ready to seek an exciting and rewarding position as a hair stylist in the field of cosmetology. The length of training in a Cosmetology program varies by state. In Washington State, for example, training programs require 1600 hours which equates to about 12 to 13 months.