10 Reasons to Start a Recession-proof Cosmetology Career

Friday, April 9th, 2010 at 3:21 pm

Despite a rough economy, Americans are still fueling the $60 billion dollar cosmetology industry, since the desire to look good—and feel good—can’t be quenched. One salon owner says, “We’ve actually seen an increase in clientele asking for facials and massages. People seem to be taking care of themselves even more, now that things are looking a little grim.” People may be cutting back on big ticket items such as automobiles, homes, and travel, but they’re more than willing to reach into their wallets for beauty services that span the spectrum from hair highlights to a trip to the day spa.

While jobs are scarce in many sectors, beauty professionals are still in high demand. More than 1.6 million U.S. workers are employed in the beauty industry, with a hot market for skilled cosmetologists especially on the West Coast, as almost 70 percent of California salon owners say they were unable to find qualified applicants. This means jobs are immediately available for talented salon professionals.

So, with talk of more layoffs and financial uncertainty, it’s enough to make you wonder: Where can you find stability in unstable times? According to career experts, job trend data shows that the cosmetology industry will provide a safe haven for workers, no matter what the economy is doing.

Here are the top 10 reasons to start a recession-proof cosmetology career:

1. Constant Demand: Just as everyone will always need a doctor or teacher, the need for hair stylists, manicurists, and estheticians isn’t going away. Beauticians in fast-growing states in the South and West, such as California, Nevada, Arizona, Texas and Georgia, will have more opportunity than in slower-growth areas in the Midwest and Northeast. In general, cities and suburbs will have more sustained demand than rural areas.

2. Growth of Spas: Once the exclusive retreats of the rich and famous, more and more consumers are embracing the spa lifestyle. For aspiring or current beauty professionals, this means that job opportunities will grow rapidly, especially due to the growth in full-service day spas.

3. Greening of Beauty: The current “green” movement goes far beyond fluorescent light bulbs and recycling. It’s also translating into a solid career choice. Interest in sustainable beauty and fashion equates to a greater demand for highly skilled, licensed beauty professionals who are trained in natural or alternative treatments, such as aromatherapy, body wraps, salt glows, reflexology, and more.

4. Ultra-luxury is Alive: Cosmetology is a business that caters to the wealthy, including movie stars, CEOs, philanthropists, oil magnates, and others. This ultra-rich consumer easily weathers any recession, and continues to spend lavishly on beauty, health, and wellness.

5. Multi-faceted Career: Many cosmetologists are skilled in not just hair styling, coloring and cutting, but also manicures and pedicures; facial treatments; make-up analysis, and much more. This means that income comes not from a single source but highly diverse avenues, ensuring a safety net for salon owners and workers.

6. Baby Boomer Clientele: In a society that values youth and beauty, aging baby boomers –a group of 78 million Americans born between 1946 and 1964—are willing to spend money to get closer to the fountain of youth. Unlike their parents, boomers don’t feel old, but young and vital—and they want their looks to reflect their energy. Even nursing homes offer beauty care, such as hair cuts, shampooing, and coloring for their residents.

7. International Opportunities: Even when the economy is doing poorly in the U.S., other countries may be doing well. With global hospitality companies opening up branches overseas, there are employment opportunities in spas, hotels, and other outlets.

8. Government Ties: Some of the most stable jobs are in the federal government, where layoffs and firings are less than in the private sector. If your salon is located near a military or airbase, government contracting firm, or other government-linked facility, there will be plenty of personnel wanting personal care services.

9. Stress Reducer: Stress is at the center of many illnesses, and regular spa visits can help treat health concerns and act as a preventative measure as well. Whether a soothing massage or body hydration, beauty treatments can pay off huge dividends in tough times.

10. Occupational Outlook: The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that job opportunities for estheticians will grow rapidly through 2016. This means you’ll enjoy job security for years to come—no matter what happens to the economy.

Don’t wait, call our Admissions Department today at 916-929-4242 to secure a job and future in a strong industry.

ABOUT FEDERICO BEAUTY INSTITUTE

Federico Beauty Institute is a third-generation, family-owned and operated beauty school that continues its 60-year commitment to educating cosmetology and esthetic students. Their mission is to hold the highest standards to produce future leaders of the beauty industry. Federico’s educator staff is comprised of professional, tenured educators who vow to motivate and mentor students to be the best they can be as beauty professionals. They teach methodology as well as hands-on training, and stay on top of industry trends and changes through constant continuing education. For more information, visit www.federico.edu.

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