Essential Information
Schools of cosmetology typically offer diplomas or certificates of completion in cosmetology. Additionally, some community colleges may offer associate's degrees in cosmetology, which can take up to two years to complete. Once students complete either type of cosmetology program, they are able to apply to their state cosmetology boards to become licensed cosmetologists. Common concepts covered in these classes include:
- Health and safety
- Disinfection and sanitation
- Hair growth patterns
- Chemical treatments
- Scalp therapies
- Hair cutting and texturing
List of Common Hair Dressing Courses
Hair Styling Course
The objective of this cosmetology course is to teach hair designing techniques and hair texture analysis. Students may learn the specifics of comb outs, styling hair when it's wet, finger waving, pressing, hot combing, and curling hair with irons, rollers or pins. Teachers demonstrate techniques for creating flattering styles on long and short hair. Lessons may also be given in various blow dryer styles and how to create an up-do.
Hair Cutting Course
Cosmetology and hair dressing students discover how to give razor cuts on different lengths of hair, and how to use clippers, scissors and shears. They learn the basics of cutting and styling hair with curly and straight textures, as well as how to correctly position their hands and bodies when giving precision haircuts.
Shampoo and Rinsing Course
This aspect of cosmetology training addresses prepping the customer for their shampoo, proper application of shampoos and conditioners, and how to massage and stimulate the scalp in the process. Students must select the products which best meet the particular needs of their customers' hair. Towel drying and blotting of the hair is also taught.
Hair Coloring and Bleaching Course
Hair coloring courses focus on adding colors, highlights and lowlights to hair. As students learn highlighting techniques, they apply frosting caps on their mannequins or student models. They then master the art of pulling hair through the cap to add highlights. Additionally, they learn to apply chemical bleaching agents to hair, and how to safely tint eyebrows and lashes. Safe application of temporary, semi-permanent and permanent hair colors are also elements of this course. Students may be taught to mix colors or tints in order to complement their customers' complexions.
Chemical Permanent and Relaxers Course
These processes involve chemically altering the structure of the hair to make curly hair straight, or to give straight hair a curly texture. Correct application procedures must be learned so that customers receive services without risk to their hair. Chemical permanent and relaxer treatments are first performed on mannequins, after which students can work on live models.