Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists

Barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers held about 754,000 jobs in 2002. Of these, barbers, hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists held 651,000 jobs; manicurists and pedicurists, 51,000; skin care specialists, 25,000; and shampooers, 25,000.

Most of these workers are employed in beauty salons or barber shops, but they are also found in nail salons, department stores, nursing and other residential care homes, and drug and cosmetics stores. Nearly every town has a barbershop or beauty salon, but employment in this occupation is concentrated in the most populous cities and States.

Almost half of all barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers are self-employed. Many own their own salon, but a growing number lease booth space or a chair from the salon’s owner.

Barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers receive income from a variety of sources. They may receive commissions based on the price of the service or a salary based on number of hours worked. All receive tips, and many receive commissions on the products they sell. In addition, some salons pay bonuses to employees who bring in new business.

Median annual earnings in 2002 for salaried hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists, including tips and commission, were $18,960. The middle 50 percent earned between $15,010 and $25,600. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $13,020, and the highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $35,240.

Median annual earnings in 2002 for salaried barbers, including tips, were $19,550. The middle 50 percent earned between $14,540 and $27,290. The lowest-paid 10 percent earned less than $12,720, and the highest-paid 10 percent earned more than $37,370.

Among skin care specialists, median annual earnings, including tips, were $22,450; for manicurists and pedicurists, $17,330; and $14,360 for shampooers.

A number of factors determine the total income of barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers, including the size and location of the salon, the number of hours worked, clients’ tipping habits, and competition from other barber shops and salons. Cosmetologists or barber’s initiative and ability to attract and hold regular clients also are key factors in determining his or her earnings. Earnings for entry-level workers are usually low; however, for those who stay in the profession, earnings can be considerably higher.

Although some salons offer paid vacations and medical benefits, many self-employed and part-time workers in this occupation do not enjoy such common benefits.

(from the Occupational Outlook Handbook: Barbers, cosmetologists, and other personal appearance workers)

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