Hairstylists and cosmetologists wash, cut, color, perm, and style customers' hair. Cosmetologists also apply makeup.

Hairstylist and cosmetologist jobs vary depending on the size and type of salon where they work. Some salons may only do hairstyles. Larger salons may hire manicurists to do nails only and leave the rest to cosmetologists. See the occupation description "Manicurists" in CIS for more information.

Hairstylists and cosmetologists must keep their work areas clean. After each customer, they sweep the floor around the chair. They also wash the combs and any other tools used. They make appointments and keep records of the products their customers use. Some workers sell hair products or makeup supplies. Those who own or manage salons order supplies, pay bills, keep records, and hire employees.

Hairstylists and cosmetologists share many duties, but some duties vary.

Hairstylists

Hairstylists greet customers when they enter the shop. They talk to customers about the style of haircut they want. They drape a protective cloth around the customer's shoulders to catch the cut hair. They wash the customer's hair and may give scalp massages.

Stylists check the condition of the customer's hair and scalp. If they find a problem, stylists advise customers how to improve the health of their scalp. For contagious conditions, stylists advise customers to see a doctor.

Hairstylists cut customers' hair. They cut hair with:

• Combs
• Razors
• Scissors

They style customers' hair with:

• Clips
• Curling irons
• Flat irons
• Hair spray

Sometimes stylists braid hair. They also may color or perm a customer's hair. Depending on how customers want their hair colored, stylists apply the color solution to all their hair or just to select strands.

Hairstylists calculate the charges and accept payments from customers.

Cosmetologists

Cosmetologists provide all the services of hairstylists and more.

Cosmetologists analyze the hair and physical features of customers who want makeovers. They recommend makeup and skin treatments based on their analysis. They may rub on facial treatments to clean the skin. They use special tools to remove unwanted hair from the skin by applying small electrical currents. Once the customer's skin is clean they apply makeup and explain each step of the process. Some clean and style wigs and hair pieces.