2008-04-30 16:43:17 -

(April 30, 2008, Scottsdale, Ariz.) - It's not too early to start thinking about what to do after high school graduation. Some of the 30 fastest-growing jobs for 2008 are in service positions. A fact that American teens and 20-somethings may want to seriously consider before following the traditional route to a career by means of a four-year college degree.

According

to the United States Department of Labor, employment of hairdressers, hairstylists, cosmetologists, skin care specialists, and shampooers is projected to grow 10 to 20 percent through the year 2010. Employment of manicurists and pedicurists is expected to increase 21 to 35 percent over the same period.

Careerbuilder.com recently posted an article stating that skin care specialists and manicurists/ pedicurists are two of the 30 hot jobs for 2008 (Make-Up Artist ranked number 7 and Skin Care Specialist ranked number 11). U.S. News and World Report reported that a cosmetology career is one of the 31 best choices for 2008.

Top Job Descriptions:

Hairstylist/Designer/Barber- Because hair comes in different lengths and textures (curly, wavy or straight), a licensed cosmetologist must be able to prescribe the appropriate style and treatment for each individual client. The services most typically performed include, but are not limited to shampoo, hair treatment (condition/color/perm), haircut or trim, hairstyle and finish. In addition, barbers typically offer facial shaves and trims to male clients. Hairstylists/designers/barbers also perform scalp treatments and must be adept at using a wide variety of products and tools. They must be able to recognize abnormalities. Effective hairstylists/designers/barbers must also be able to communicate well in order to establish, build and maintain a trusting relationship with each client. Full-service professionals are expected to earn approximately $40,000 annually. Specialized professionals are expected to average $43,000 annually. Both salaries listed exclude tips.

Esthetician (skin care specialist and make-up artist)- As one of today's fastest growing segments of the salon and spa industry, estheticians perform facials, hair removal and other body treatments. They must be adept in a wide variety of products (cleansing agents, lotions, wraps, oils, to name a few) and tools in order to provide the client with a positive experience. Estheticians must also be able to recognize abnormalities in the skin and recommend effective treatments to correct those abnormalities. They must also be able to communicate well in order to establish, build and maintain a trusting relationship with each client. Esthetician's salary ranges between $37,000-40,000 annually, excluding tips.


Nail Technician (Manicures and Pedicures) - Hand treatments include, natural nail and nail enhancement manicures and typically involve treatment of the cuticles. Nail Techs must be adept at using a wide variety of products and tools. In addition, they typically perform a variety of hand treatments such as paraffin dips and massage. Nail enhancement treatments typically involve the application of synthetic nails atop the client's natural nail and require the use of special adhesives, which must be handled correctly. Pedicure treatments typically involve soaking and buffing the feet and trimming, smoothing, treating and polishing the toenails. Performing this service may also involve massage and consultation (nail technicians must be able to recognize abnormalities in the nail and recommend effective treatments). Effective nail techs must also communicate well in order to establish, build and maintain a trusting relationship with each client. Their salary average is $31,000-$33,000 annually, excluding tips.

American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) Executive Director Jim Cox, says prospective cosmetology students and influencers of prospective students should realize the potential of what a career in cosmetology can offer. 'Professionals in this industry truly represent the American dream where earnings opportunities and success potential are limited only by an individual's commitment and hard work.'

Cox says people interested in a beauty career should check out www.yourbeautifulcareer.com.

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Founded in 1924, AACS is a national non-profit association open to all privately owned cosmetology arts and science schools. AACS serves members by providing instructional education, sponsoring industry events and advancing awareness of cosmetology careers.