Cosmeticians

Experience comes through completing a cosmetician or cosmetology program and passing state board exams. Entry-level cosmeticians may begin work with additional experience coming through being on the job.

Those who are friendly with a people-oriented personality and good listening skills are best suited to this type of career. Sensitivity, tactfulness, and patience are particularly vital, especially when dealing with clients. Furthermore, the ability to sell has also become a desirable characteristic in cosmeticians, because retail sales are becoming a large part of salon offerings. Flexibility and a desire to continue learning are also important traits, because cosmeticians need to take continuing education workshops or seminars in order to keep up with licensing requirements and new developments in the field.