15 Careers You Can Have as a Cosmetologist

When you think of a cosmetologist, the first thing that might come to mind is someone working behind the chair at a salon, cutting and coloring hair. And while that’s a big part of what many cosmetologists do, it’s far from the only path you can take once you earn your license. A cosmetology education opens the door to a wide variety of career opportunities—some you may not have even thought of yet!

At Keune Academy by 124, we know that students choose this career because they’re passionate about beauty, creativity, and helping people feel their best. What’s even better is that cosmetology is not a one-size-fits-all profession. Whether you dream of working in a high-end salon, traveling the world as a platform artist, or even owning your own business, your cosmetology license can take you there.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the top careers you can have as a cosmetologist, so you can start imagining what your future in beauty could look like.

1. Salon Stylist

The most traditional and well-known career path for a cosmetologist is working as a salon stylist. This role gives you the opportunity to:

• Provide haircuts, styling, and color services
• Build long-term relationships with clients
• Stay on top of trends and bring them to life
• Work in a team environment where creativity thrives

Many cosmetologists love this path because it offers flexibility and the chance to develop a loyal clientele. Over time, you can specialize in certain services—like balayage, precision cuts, or special occasion styling—and become the go-to expert in your area.

2. Color Specialist

If your passion leans more toward the science and artistry of hair color, becoming a color specialist might be the perfect fit. These professionals focus solely on color services and often work in salons that specialize in hair coloring.

As a colorist, you’ll dive into:

• Techniques like highlights, lowlights, balayage, and ombré
• Corrective coloring for clients who need a refresh or repair
• Staying up to date with chemistry, product knowledge, and advanced color theory

Because color is such a technical skill, specialists are in high demand and can build a thriving career by offering these expert services.

3. Platform Artist

Do you love the idea of being on stage and showcasing your skills to a live audience? Platform artists are cosmetologists who travel to beauty shows, expos, and educational events to demonstrate new products and techniques.

This career path allows you to:

• Represent a brand or product line
• Share your expertise with other professionals
• Travel nationally or internationally
• Become a recognized name in the beauty industry

It’s a career that combines artistry with performance and can be incredibly rewarding for those who love teaching and inspiring others.

4. Editorial or Session Stylist

Cosmetology doesn’t just take place inside a salon—it’s also behind the scenes of magazines, fashion shows, commercials, movies, and television. Editorial or session stylists are the professionals creating those camera-ready looks.

In this role, you might:

• Collaborate with photographers, directors, and designers
• Create hairstyles and makeup for models or actors
• Work in high-pressure, fast-paced environments
• Travel for shoots or events

It’s a glamorous career path, but it also requires adaptability, creativity, and the ability to work long hours on set.

5. Makeup Artist

Cosmetologists receive training in makeup application as part of their program, and many choose to specialize as makeup artists. From weddings to film and theater, makeup artists are needed in countless industries.

Career opportunities in makeup include:

• Bridal and special occasion makeup
• Editorial and fashion makeup
• Theater and stage makeup
• Film and television makeup (including special effects with additional training)

Some cosmetologists even build their own makeup artistry businesses, providing on-location services for clients.

6. Esthetics and Skincare Specialist

While cosmetology focuses heavily on hair, the training also includes skincare basics. Many cosmetologists build on this foundation to pursue careers in esthetics. Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need additional licensing, but your cosmetology background gives you a head start.

Careers in skincare include:

• Facial and skincare services
• Waxing and hair removal
• Lash extensions or brow shaping
• Working in spas, salons, or medi-spa environments

This can be a great option for cosmetologists who love helping clients achieve glowing, healthy skin.

7. Nail Technician

Similar to skincare, nails are another area of focus that cosmetologists learn during their training. If you love the artistry of manicures and pedicures, specializing as a nail technician could be a great career move.

With options like gel, acrylic, and nail art designs, this role allows you to showcase your creativity while helping clients express their personal style.

8. Salon or Spa Owner

One of the biggest perks of becoming a licensed cosmetologist is the opportunity to be your own boss. Many professionals dream of opening their own salon, spa, or studio.

As an owner, you’ll take on responsibilities like:

• Managing a team of stylists or technicians
• Marketing and branding your business
• Overseeing client satisfaction
• Handling finances and operations

It’s a path that requires both creative and business skills, but the reward is building something that’s completely your own.

9. Beauty Educator or Instructor

Do you love teaching others and sharing your passion for beauty? With experience and additional training, you can become a beauty school instructor. Educators help guide the next generation of cosmetologists, teaching technical skills, business knowledge, and client care.

This career is especially rewarding because it allows you to give back to the industry and inspire others to follow in your footsteps.

10. Product Representative or Brand Ambassador

Behind every great beauty product is a team of professionals who believe in it and share it with the world. Many cosmetologists can find fulfilling careers as product reps or brand ambassadors for companies like Keune.

This role often includes:

• Traveling to salons and beauty schools to educate professionals
• Hosting demonstrations and training sessions
• Sharing product knowledge with stylists and clients
• Helping launch new product lines

It’s a career that blends sales, education, and beauty expertise.

11. Bridal Specialist

Weddings are one of the most important days in a person’s life, and cosmetologists often play a big role in helping brides and bridal parties look and feel their best. As a bridal specialist, you might focus on:

• Bridal hairstyling
• Bridal makeup
• On-location services for weddings and events
• Building long-term relationships through referrals and word of mouth

This niche can be both profitable and rewarding, especially for cosmetologists who love working one-on-one with clients during special moments.

12. Social Media Influencer or Content Creator

Thanks to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, many cosmetologists have turned their skills into a career by building a personal brand online. As a beauty influencer, you can:

• Share tutorials and tips
• Build partnerships with brands
• Monetize your content through sponsorships and ads
• Grow your own clientele through online visibility

Social media is an incredible way to showcase your artistry to the world and connect with clients far beyond your local area.

13. Celebrity Stylist

For some cosmetologists, the ultimate dream is working with celebrities—actors, musicians, athletes, or influencers. Celebrity stylists often work as freelancers, traveling with clients or styling them for red carpet events, tours, and appearances.

This career path requires networking, perseverance, and the ability to handle high-profile clients with professionalism, but the payoff is working in an exciting, glamorous environment.

14. Freelance Artist

Not all cosmetologists want to commit to one salon or studio. Many thrive as freelancers, offering services on a flexible basis. Freelancers might:

• Rent a chair in a salon
• Work in multiple locations
• Travel to clients’ homes or events
• Set their own hours and rates

This can be a great option for cosmetologists who value independence and variety in their careers.

15. Beauty Blogger or Writer

If you love writing as much as styling, why not combine the two? Many cosmetologists pursue careers as beauty writers or bloggers. They create content for beauty magazines, websites, or their own platforms, sharing tips, product reviews, and industry insights.

This career allows you to stay connected to the beauty industry while also using communication skills to educate and inspire others.

Why Cosmetology Offers So Many Career Paths

Cosmetology is more than just a job—it’s a career that can evolve with you. The beauty industry is constantly growing and changing, which means cosmetologists have endless opportunities to learn new skills, specialize in different areas, and pivot as their interests shift.

At Keune Academy by 124, we’re dedicated to preparing our students for these diverse career paths. Our program is designed not just to teach you the fundamentals, but also to give you the business and creative skills you’ll need no matter which direction you choose.

Start Your Future in Beauty at Keune Academy by 124

If you’ve been dreaming of a career where creativity meets opportunity, cosmetology could be the perfect fit. With so many career options—from salon stylist to educator, entrepreneur to influencer—your license is the key to a world of possibilities.

At Keune Academy by 124, we can help you turn your passion into a profession. Whether you see yourself behind the chair, behind the scenes, or in the spotlight, your journey starts with the right education.

Are you ready to explore the careers you can have as a cosmetologist? Contact Keune Academy by 124 today to learn more about our programs and how you can get started!