Will “Cosmetologist” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Clean, shape, and polish fingernails and toenails, using files and nail polish.

• Recommend and explain the use of cosmetics, lotions, and creams to soften and lubricate skin and enhance and restore natural appearance.

• Train or supervise other hairstylists, hairdressers, and assistants.

• Bleach, dye, or tint hair, using applicator or brush.

• Demonstrate and sell hair care products and cosmetics.

• Schedule client appointments.

• Operate cash registers to receive payments from patrons.

• Keep work stations clean and sanitize tools, such as scissors and combs.

• Update and maintain customer information records, such as beauty services provided.

• Cut, trim and shape hair or hairpieces, based on customers' instructions, hair type, and facial features, using clippers, scissors, trimmers and razors.

• Apply water or setting, straightening or waving solutions to hair, and use curlers, rollers, hot combs and curling irons to press and curl hair.

• Analyze patrons' hair and other physical features to determine and recommend beauty treatment or suggest hair styles.

• Shampoo, rinse, condition, and dry hair and scalp or hairpieces with water, liquid soap, or other solutions.

• Attach wigs or hairpieces to model heads and dress wigs and hairpieces according to instructions, samples, sketches or photographs.

• Give facials to patrons, using special compounds, such as lotions and creams.

• Administer therapeutic medication and advise patron to seek medical treatment for chronic or contagious scalp conditions.

• Develop new styles and techniques.

• Shave, trim, and shape beards and moustaches.

• Shape eyebrows and remove facial hair, using depilatory cream, tweezers, electrolysis or wax.

• Order, display, and maintain supplies.

• Massage and treat scalp for hygienic and remedial purposes, using hands, fingers, or vibrating equipment.

• Comb, brush, and spray hair or wigs to set style.