Show Me the Money: Salaries in the Beauty Industry

People working in the beauty industry, including cosmetologists, barbers and hairdressers, represent one of the fastest-growing industries today. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the industry will grow 10 percent by 2024, faster than the average of all occupations in the U.S. Of course, higher wages are one of the primary reasons people flock to this career choice. In fact, consider how salaries vary depending on these factors, like working in a beauty salon in Wisconsin or being a top-level colorist in urban areas.

Personal appearance workers, such as makeup artists and estheticians, can make up to $11.48 per hour, but cosmetologists, hairdressers and hairstylists may make up to $11.66. But, this reflects the simplest skills learned by licensed cosmetologists, and as you expand the services you offer, your wages increase. In addition, those working to improve skin health or provide facial treatments, make an average of $30,270 annually.

Coloring hair typically costs more than a standard haircut and style. In fact, the average wage for colorists is $15.86 per hour, reports Payscale.com. Meanwhile, colorists using new or advanced coloring techniques, like ombre highlights, may earn much more due to the time and patience needed to achieve these one-of-a-kind looks.

Depending on where you work, you may make more as a cosmetologist due to increased client volume and demand for “in-style” looks. For example, those working in larger cities or urban areas may see higher-than-expected wage spikes when contemporary trends come out or when seasons change. Moreover, stylists and licensed individuals can work to build high-class clientele depending on location too. Think of this title, “Cosmetologist to the Stars.” You are only limited by your imagination and passion to grow in your career.

While the beauty industry offers excellent career options, a few other factors play into how much you can make. For example, if you work in a salon, you may be limited in maximum hourly wages by company policies, excluding tips. But, tips can add up to significant income. In fact, a publication on the morning show, Today, identified best-tip practices, most people tipping up to 20 percent of the service. However, tips generated during promotions or discount services should still have a 20-percent tip included at the original service price.

For example, a client receiving services costing $40 with a 10-percent discount should tip for the full $40 ($8), not a 20-percent tip for $36 ($7.20). While it might not seem like much, the difference can up to $80 in income over the course of 100 clients.

Of course, professionals in the beauty industry can make significantly more by opening their own salons. Some of the reasons successful beauty industry experts choose this path include the following:

• Having greater flexibility in work schedules.
• Setting your own rates.
• Not paying booth rent.
• Control over policies and procedures.
• Offering other stylists a place to work.

The beauty industry is worth more than $50 billion, and you can take a piece of this pie home with you by learning the skills and techniques needed to pass the State exam and get a license. To find out more about career opportunities for cosmetologists and how to get make a positive change in your life, request your free starter kit now.