Choosing the right beauty license is one of the most important career decisions you'll make. Each license type has different training requirements, allows different services, and leads to different career paths. This guide compares the four main beauty licenses to help you decide which is right for you.
License Types Compared
Here's how the four main beauty license types stack up in terms of requirements and scope.
Cosmetologist
Scope of Practice
- Hair cutting, styling, coloring
- Chemical treatments (perms, relaxers)
- Basic skincare and makeup
- Nail services (manicures, pedicures)
- Waxing and hair removal
Career Paths
Esthetician
Scope of Practice
- Facials and skincare treatments
- Waxing and hair removal
- Makeup application
- Lash and brow services
- Body treatments
Career Paths
Nail Technician
Scope of Practice
- Manicures and pedicures
- Nail enhancements (acrylic, gel, dip)
- Nail art
- Basic hand and foot massage
Career Paths
Barber
Scope of Practice
- Hair cutting and styling
- Facial hair grooming
- Straight razor shaving
- Some states allow coloring
Career Paths
Quick Comparison Table
| License Type | Typical Hours | Can Do Hair? | Can Do Skin? | Can Do Nails? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | 1,000-1,600 | Yes | Basic | Yes |
| Esthetician | 260-1,000 | No | Yes | No |
| Nail Technician | 200-600 | No | No | Yes |
| Barber | 500-1,800 | Yes | No | No |
* Requirements vary by state. Check your specific state for exact requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
A cosmetologist is trained in all beauty services including hair, skin, and nails, while an esthetician specializes in skincare only. Cosmetology requires more training hours (typically 1,000-1,600) compared to esthetics (260-1,000). If you want to do hair, you need a cosmetology or barber license.
Yes, a cosmetology license typically covers all esthetician services plus hair services. However, estheticians receive more in-depth skincare training, so some employers prefer hiring licensed estheticians for skin-focused roles.
Nail technician licenses typically require the fewest hours (200-600), followed by esthetician (260-1,000), then cosmetology and barber (500-1,800). Nail tech programs can often be completed in 2-4 months.
Yes, but you'll need to complete additional training hours in hair services. The specific requirements vary by state - some allow you to credit your esthetician hours, while others require full cosmetology training.
Earning potential depends more on skill, clientele, and location than license type. However, cosmetologists often have higher earning potential due to hair services, while estheticians in medical spas can earn premium wages. Top earners in any category can make $60,000-$100,000+.
Requirements vary by state. Some states require an esthetician or cosmetology license, while others only require certification or have no requirements. Check your state board for specific regulations.
Barbers specialize in men's hair cutting, facial hair grooming, and straight razor services. Cosmetologists have broader training including women's hair styling, coloring, and basic skin/nail services. Some states have combination licenses.
Most states require licensure in that specific state. Some states have reciprocity agreements or accept out-of-state licenses through endorsement. A few states, like Arizona, have universal recognition for valid out-of-state licenses.