Cosmetology & Beauty Careers in Texas: What to Expect

Overview

Cosmetology is more than just beauty—it’s a thriving, hands-on career for creative people who love helping others feel their best. In Texas, licensed cosmetologists are in high demand across salons, spas, resorts, and even in self-run businesses. From hairstyling and skincare to nail technology and esthetics, cosmetology offers diverse ways to build a rewarding career quickly after high school.

Job Outlook & Pay in Texas

• Starting Pay: $25,000–$35,000/year (higher with tips or self-employment)
• Average Pay: $43,000/year for licensed cosmetologists (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)
• Top Earners: $60,000+ with specialization or business ownership
• Growth: Expected to grow 11% nationally through 2032; strong demand in Texas metro areas and resort towns

Education & Licensing

Cosmetology is a licensed profession in Texas, overseen by the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation (TDLR). Whether you’re drawn to hair, skin, or nails, formal education and licensure are required to legally work in the industry.

Steps to becoming a licensed cosmetologist:

• Complete a State-Approved Cosmetology Program: Requires at least 1,000 hours of training covering haircutting, coloring, chemical treatments, sanitation, and customer service.
• Pass the Written and Practical Exams: Administered by TDLR to test your knowledge and hands-on skills before licensing.
• Maintain Your License: Cosmetology licenses must be renewed every two years, including completion of continuing education hours in sanitation and law updates.

Other beauty-related licenses in Texas:

• Esthetics: Focuses on skincare, facials, waxing, and makeup application.
• Nail Technology: Covers manicures, pedicures, nail art, and safety procedures for nail care.
• Barbering: Now a separate license from cosmetology, barbering includes shaving, beard trimming, and men’s grooming techniques.

Where to Study in Texas

• Ogle School of Hair, Skin & Nails
  Locations: Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Fort Worth
  Program: Cosmetology & Esthetics
  Duration: ~8–10 months full-time
  ogleschool.edu
• Paul Mitchell The School
  Locations: Austin, Dallas, Houston, San Antonio
  Program: Cosmetology
  paulmitchell.edu
• Central Texas Beauty College
  Locations: Temple, Round Rock
  Program: Cosmetology, Nail Tech, Esthetics
  ctbeautycollege.com
• South Texas College
  Location: McAllen
  Program: Cosmetology Certificate
  Duration: 1 year
  southtexascollege.edu
• Lone Star College
  Location: North Harris
  Program: Cosmetology Operator Certificate
  lonestar.edu

What to Expect in Training

Expect a balance of theory and hands-on training, including:

• Hair cutting, coloring, styling
• Skin treatments and facials
• Makeup artistry
• Manicures, pedicures, and nail design
• Sanitation and safety protocols
• Client communication and business basics

Many schools have salon floors where students work with real clients under supervision.

After Graduation

Graduates can work in:

• Salons and day spas
• Resorts or cruise ships
• Bridal/event styling
• Self-run mobile beauty businesses
• Media/fashion industry

With time and experience, cosmetologists can become:

• Salon managers
• Beauty educators
• Product reps
• Business owners

Final Thoughts

Cosmetology isn’t just a backup plan—it’s a respected and creative career path that puts you in control of your time, income, and style. If you want to build a future based on skill and personal connection, cosmetology may be the perfect fit.