| The good news is that careers in cosmetology, hair | | | | appearance both on and off the job, and expects |
| styling, nails, and skin care have withstood the test | | | | more than a weekly visit to the traditional |
| of time. Nationwide, these occupations are predicted | | | | barbershop. For teens in many areas of the country, |
| to grow by 12 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau | | | | visits to the day spa or salon have become almost |
| of Labor Statistics, even exceeding the average | | | | routine, with some youngsters starting their first nail |
| growth rate for all other occupations by almost 20 | | | | and hair treatments as early as eight years old-a |
| percent. Beauty school students can expect | | | | phenomenon that will continue to prosper. |
| favorable hiring opportunities upon graduation but | | | | Lastly, small business continues to flourish, despite |
| should prepare for keen competition at high-end | | | | the lagging economy. America's economy is fueled by |
| establishments. | | | | the entrepreneurial spirit of its citizens, and nowhere |
| How does the industry account for such rapid | | | | is that more evident than in the number of |
| growth? Several reasons. One, not only does our | | | | full-service spas and salons found in every city and |
| population continue to increase but people are living | | | | hometown across the country. In 2008, more than |
| longer. And those who live longer don't mind dropping | | | | 800,000 stylists, nail technicians, cosmetologists and |
| a dime (or so) to look good. Demand for skilled | | | | estheticians were gainfully employed in the beauty |
| stylists who make the most of hot trends in hair | | | | industry. |
| coloring and specialized treatments has increased | | | | Which beauty-related occupation will experience the |
| significantly in recent years, and is expected to | | | | greatest gain? Estheticians and other skin care |
| continue. | | | | specialists, says the bureau of labor statistics. Driven |
| Second, the industry has experienced huge increases | | | | by the popularity of advanced skin care treatments |
| in the number of males and even teens who seek | | | | and the population's desire for a youthful appearance, |
| the help of professional stylists, nail technicians, | | | | estheticians can expect almost a 38 percent increase |
| estheticians, and more. Today's professional male | | | | in job openings. |
| recognizes the importance of a good, personal | | | | |