Month: January 2026

I have seen so many people with incredible natural talent hold themselves back because they are worried about a piece of paper. Maybe you are sitting there wondering if your education background is going to stand in the way of your career, or perhaps you are just trying to figure out where to even start the enrollment process. It is completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed by the technicalities.

I want to help you clear the air. Getting into beauty school is less about being a perfect student and more about understanding the specific rules that govern our industry. If I had to break down who these schools are actually for, I would categorize it by the requirements you need to meet to move forward with confidence.

Understanding the Three Different Hurdles

One of the biggest reasons people get confused when looking into how to get into cosmetology school is that there isn’t just one set of rules. You are actually looking at three different gatekeepers that each have their own requirements.

The Admissions Office

Each individual school has its own standards for who they let in. While most prefer a high school diploma, some have flexibility depending on the program.

The State Board

This is the most critical part. To actually work as a professional, you eventually have to be licensed by the state. In Georgia, this is handled by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. If you don’t meet their specific criteria for training hours and education, you won’t be able to sit for your exams, regardless of how well you did in class.

Federal Funding

If you are planning to use federal financial aid to pay for your tuition, the government has its own strict set of rules. This is often where the requirement for a high school diploma or GED becomes most rigid. If you are in a position where you are looking at cosmetology school without a high school diploma, you might need to explore Ability-to-Benefit (ATB) pathways, which are specific routes designed to help students without a traditional diploma qualify for aid through career-focused programs.

The Reality of GEDs and High School Diplomas

I get asked all the time if it is possible to start a beauty career without a standard high school background. The answer is usually more positive than people expect, but it requires some planning.

If you have been asking yourself can I get into cosmetology school with a GED, the answer is a very common yes. Most schools and state boards view a GED as the equivalent of a high school diploma. It is a perfectly valid way to meet the education requirements for both enrollment and licensing.

However, if you are currently looking for cosmetology schools without GED or diploma requirements, you have to be more careful. While some programs may allow you to start your training, you will almost always need to complete your GED before you can apply for your state license. I always tell people that it is better to handle the education side of things early so you aren’t stuck right at the finish line when it’s time to get your license.

Starting Young: Age and High School Programs

I think it is great when someone knows they want to be in the beauty industry while they are still in their teens. I often hear from 16-year-olds who are ready to jump in right away.

In many cases, you can actually begin your journey while you are still in high school. Many states allow students to start clocking hours at age 16 or 17, though you will generally need a parent to sign off on your enrollment. If you are a high school student, you might even find that your school has a partnership with a local beauty academy, which is one of the smartest ways to get a head start on your career.

Is Beauty School Hard to Get Into?

There is a common myth that you have to be a naturally gifted artist to even get accepted. In my experience, that is rarely the case. Most academies are looking for dedication and reliability rather than existing skills – they are there to teach you the skills, after all.

When people ask does everyone get into cosmetology school, I usually tell them that the main things that stop an application are logistical rather than personal. The most common delays include:

• Missing Paperwork: Not having a valid ID or your high school transcripts ready to go.
• Availability: Popular programs fill up fast, and schools have to stay within legal student-to-teacher ratios.
• Financial Readiness: Having a clear plan for how to handle tuition and the cost of your professional kit.

If you are organized and meet the basic age and education requirements, the path is generally very open to you.

Preparing for Success at Hogan Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics

If you are looking for a place that is focused on preparing you for the reality of the industry, the Hogan Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics is a fantastic environment to consider. I have found that the best schools are the ones that don’t just teach you how to do hair or skin, but specifically how to pass your state board exams and thrive in a real salon or spa.

Our Professional Programs

We offer several specialized paths depending on where you want to take your career:

• Master Cosmetologist
• Esthetician
• Instructor Training

Know Before You Enroll

I highly suggest that anyone thinking about applying take a moment to look through our Student Catalog. It contains all the essential details regarding our admissions requirements and the specific documents you will need to provide. Being prepared with your transcripts and identification from day one makes the entire process much smoother.

If you are ready to stop wondering and start training, the best thing you can do is come see the school for yourself. We have a contact form right here on the site where you can reach out to our team to schedule a tour or ask specific questions about your eligibility.

If you have been looking for ways to jumpstart your career in the beauty world without a license, I want you to know that you aren’t being reckless. Honestly, you’re just being realistic.

Maybe you want to start making an income sooner rather than later, or maybe the cost of school feels a bit heavy right now. I also know how frustrating it is to get five different answers from the internet and have no idea which one is actually legal.

So, I want to keep this simple. I am going to explain what a “license” actually means in our industry, where the legal boundaries usually sit, and most importantly, what you can do right now to build your brand while staying on the safe side of the law.

License vs Certification vs Business Permit: What is the Difference?

This is where I see the most confusion, so let’s break this down into plain English.

A Professional License

Think of this as your legal permission from the state to perform specific services on other people. States require these because a lot of beauty work involves chemicals, sharp tools, or sanitation risks that could actually hurt someone if handled incorrectly.

A Certification

I see a lot of people get these mixed up with licenses. A certification usually shows you have been trained in a specific skill, like a certain lash technique. While it helps your credibility and sometimes helps you get insurance, it does not give you the legal right to perform that service for money if your state requires a license.

A Business License

This has nothing to do with your talent and everything to do with running a legal company. This covers your local permits, taxes, and zoning. Even if the job you are doing doesn’t require a personal beauty license, you will likely still need a business registration to legally charge clients or sell products.

A quick way to remember it: license = permission to perform, certification = proof of skill, and business license = permission to operate.

How the Law Decides What Requires a License

Most states don’t regulate beauty based on how creative you are; they regulate based on risk.

In my experience, a service is almost always going to require a license if it involves:

• Cutting hair or skin
• Using strong chemicals (like hair color, relaxers, or deep chemical peels)
• Tools that require intense sanitation (like needles or metal cuticle nippers)
• Anything that could break the skin or cause a serious infection
• Procedures that carry a risk of burns or long-term scarring

Services that stay on the “surface level” are often less restricted. However, this is why online advice is such a mess. Two people can tell you completely opposite things, and they might both be right, simply because they live in different states.

Cosmetology Jobs Without a License You Can Start Now

If your goal is to get your foot in the door and start earning, there are several careers with a cosmetology license not being mandatory. You can build your network and your name without any legal drama.

Non-Service Roles

These are underrated paths that I think more people should consider:

• Beauty Retail and Sales: Working with brands or in stores to sell products.
• Brand Representative: Helping brands at events or trade shows.
• Salon Coordinator: Managing the front desk, bookings, and client experience.
• Content Creation: This is huge right now. You can do reviews, tutorials, and education on social media.
• Beauty Photography or Writing: Creating the visuals or the blogs that keep the industry moving.
• Consulting: Helping people build skincare or hair routines without actually applying the treatments yourself.

Product-Based Businesses

If you want to be your own boss but aren’t ready for the hands-on service side, products are a smart move:

• Launching a press-on nail brand
• Opening an online store for beauty tools or accessories
• Digital products like beauty planners, checklists, or “how-to” guides

This lane usually requires a solid business setup, but you generally won’t need to worry about cosmetology without a license issues here.

Can You Own a Salon Without Being Licensed?

This is a question I get all the time: can I own a salon without a cosmetology license? The answer, surprisingly, is often yes! In many states, you can be the owner and the “business brain” without ever holding a stylist’s license.

The catch is in how you structure the business:

• You must hire licensed professionals to perform any regulated services
• Your building will likely need an “establishment” or “salon license”
• You are responsible for keeping the business compliant with health and safety laws, even if you aren’t the one behind the chair

So, while you can absolutely own the shop, it isn’t a “do whatever you want” situation. You still have to follow the rules of the board.

The “Big Five”: Lashes, Nails, Hair, Makeup, and Microblading

Most of the time, people aren’t trying to break the law. They are just asking practical questions like, “can I be a lash tech without a cosmetology license?” or “can you do makeup without a cosmetology license?”

Here is the general pattern I see across the country:

Where the Legal Risk Is Higher

• Lashes: Because you’re working so close to the eyes with strong adhesives, this is heavily regulated.
• Nails: If you’re wondering, “can I be a nail tech without a cosmetology license?” the answer is usually no if you’re doing professional services involving cuticle work or gels.
• Hair: Usually, “alteration” (cutting or coloring) requires a license, while “enhancement” (styling or braiding) is sometimes exempt, depending on the state.
• Makeup: This is often the most flexible area, but it can get tricky if you start doing skincare treatments.
• Microblading: This is almost always treated as permanent makeup or body art and has its own strict set of rules.

A good rule of thumb I use: If it involves cutting, chemicals, needles, or high-level sanitation, assume you need a license until you prove otherwise with your local board.

How to Check the Rules for Your Area

If you want a clear plan that won’t get you in trouble, I suggest following these steps:

1) Define your service exactly
Don’t just say “nails.” Be specific, like “selling press-on nails” or “applying acrylics.”

2) Contact the right authority
This is usually your State Board of Cosmetology or the Department of Health.

3) Confirm the three big requirements
Do you need a personal license, a building license, and a local business permit?

4) Pick a “legal lane” while you train
I always suggest building your brand through content, products, or admin roles while you are working toward your official credentials.

Final Thoughts and Next Steps

If you’re ready to stop wondering what’s legal and start building a career that no one can take away from you, I’d love to help you take that next step at Hogan Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics.

Whether you want to master the art of hair in our Cosmetology program, dive deep into skin health with Esthetics, or become a specialist in our Nail Technician course, we focus on making sure you’re ‘salon-ready’ from day one.

If you have questions about our hybrid learning options or how to get started, just fill out the contact form right below this post. I’d love to see you on campus for a tour soon!

If you have ever looked at your cosmetology license and wondered what else you can do with it, you are definitely not the only one. I see this happen all the time – someone is about to graduate or is already licensed, and they start dreaming about doing lashes full-time, opening a nail boutique, or even moving into a barbershop. Usually, the confusion starts because of one simple fact:

A cosmetology license is very broad, but it is not a “magic key” for every service in every state.

What your school tells you or what a salon owner says is okay does not actually matter. The only thing that legally matters is your scope of practice as defined by your specific state.

Your License Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

In the U.S., every state gets to decide exactly what “cosmetology” means.

For instance, New York is pretty straightforward – they explain that cosmetology includes things like nail specialty, waxing, and esthetics, but also includes cutting or trimming beards and hair.

Texas handles things differently. They publish detailed guides that spell out exactly what a Cosmetology Operator can and cannot do. For example, they are very specific that you can only use a safety razor, not a straight razor, for shaving services.

So, when I get asked, “Can you become an esthetician with a cosmetology license?” my answer is always the same:

You are allowed to do whatever your state board says is part of your license – no more, and certainly no less.

My 5-Minute Strategy for Checking Your Scope

Before I ever help a pro add a new service to their menu or pivot their career, I use a quick verification checklist:

1. Find your regulator. Go straight to your state board or licensing agency website.
2. Look for the “Scope of Practice” section. You might also see it under “Laws and Rules” or “Definitions.”
3. Search for specific terms. Look for things like eyelash extensions, chemical peels, straight razors, or microneedling.
4. Get it in writing. If you are still confused, email the board and save their response.

Texas makes this very easy by putting everything in one place. California, on the other hand, uses “Industry Bulletins” to explain rules for specific tools or services like lashes. Following this process can save you from a very expensive legal headache.

Can You Work as an Esthetician With a Cosmetology License?

In most states, your cosmetology license covers standard skincare treatments. These are the typical services you would find in a full-service salon.

In New York, esthetics is explicitly listed as part of cosmetology. Similarly, Florida includes skin care, waxing, and manicures in their definition of a cosmetologist.

The Catch: Basic Skincare vs. Medical Procedures

I like to keep the distinction simple:

• Basic services like traditional facials, masks, and manual exfoliation are usually fine.
• Advanced procedures are where things get tricky.

Illinois is very strict, stating that neither cosmetologists nor estheticians should be performing services that affect the living layers of the skin. And in California, the board is clear that microneedling is outside the scope of practice for all of its licensees.

A Note on Your Professional Title

Even if you can legally do a facial, you might not be allowed to call yourself an “Esthetician.” The National Coalition of Estheticians Association points out that some states restrict this title only to those with a specific esthetics license. I always tell my readers to check this before they start printing business cards or running Instagram ads.

Doing Nails With a Cosmetology License

This is generally the most straightforward “yes” you will find.

Texas includes manicures, pedicures, and artificial nail applications in the cosmetology scope. Florida does the same.

While you are likely legally covered, remember that employers and boards care deeply about sanitation. Just because you can do nails doesn’t mean you shouldn’t seek extra training in hygiene and safety to protect your license and your clients.

Can You Be a Lash Tech With a Cosmetology License?

Lashes cause a lot of stress because people often confuse a training certificate from a brand with a legal license from the state.

California’s Board notes that applying lash extensions or strips is only for licensed estheticians or cosmetologists. Texas has a specific lash license, but they also allow Cosmetology Operators to perform those same services.

The Liability Factor

It is not just about the law; it is about insurance. On forums like SalonGeek, you will see endless threads about whether insurance covers moving from lash lifts to extensions. Even if it is legal, I always recommend double-checking that your policy actually covers you for the specific service you are providing.

Working as a Barber With a Cosmetology License

This is where people usually get surprised. While there is a lot of overlap in hair cutting, the big divider is usually the razor.

In Texas, a cosmetologist can do most barbering tasks but cannot use a straight razor for shaving. In contrast, New York allows cosmetologists to perform shaving and beard trimming.

Interestingly, in Texas, a Class A Barber can do almost everything a cosmetologist does, except for eyelash extensions. This is a perfect example of why you have to know your specific state’s rules.

Can You Work Without a License?

I get why people search for ways to work without a license – they want to start making money now. But the risks are massive. States like Texas explicitly forbid you from even advertising services you aren’t licensed for. It is always better to finish school and stay within the legal lines so you don’t lose your future career before it even starts.

How to Build Your Career Path at Hogan Institute

If you are looking at all these options and thinking, “I want a license that lets me do the most,” the key is choosing the right foundation. At Hogan Institute of Cosmetology & Esthetics, we focus on high-impact training that matches Georgia’s licensing requirements.

The Pathway for All-Around Skills

For those who want to “do it all” – hair, skin, and nails – our Cosmetology program is the standard. It is a 1,500-hour comprehensive course that prepares you for the Georgia State Board. Because the curriculum includes hair coloring, cutting, manicures, pedicures, and basic facials, it is the most flexible license you can hold in this industry.

The Specialist Route

If your heart is strictly in skincare, you can dive into a more targeted program:

• Esthetician: This program goes deep into skin health, spa treatments, and advanced techniques like microdermabrasion and chemical peels. It is designed specifically for those who want to work in high-end spas or medical esthetics environments.
• Instructor Training: For licensed pros who are ready to step away from the chair and lead the next generation of beauty professionals.

Take the Next Step

The best way to figure out which program fits your goals is to see the school in action. You can schedule a tour at our Lilburn campus to meet our instructors, check out the CHI-equipped labs, and talk to admissions about your career path. Whether you want a broad cosmetology foundation or a specialized esthetics focus, we are here to help you get salon-ready.

The common assumption is that getting a cosmetology license means you’re signing up for one specific job-standing behind a salon chair for forty hours a week. While that’s a classic and rewarding path, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. I’ve found that a license is actually a versatile toolkit that can open doors to everything from corporate brand roles to legitimate work-from-home options.

If you have been searching for what you can actually do with those hours of training, I want to break down the real opportunities-both the high-energy offline roles and the digital paths you might not have considered.

Check Your Boundaries First

Before you dive into a specific niche, you have to understand your “scope of practice.” This is just a fancy way of saying “what the law allows you to do.” Because every state has its own board, the rules for what a licensed cosmetologist can do in Georgia might differ from New York or California.

For example, if you are looking for specific details on what is allowed, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation has a great official scope guide that explains how different licenses overlap.

Also, if you are dreaming of a home-based setup, keep in mind that many states view this as a regulated business, not just a hobby. California’s home salon rules are a good example of how detailed these requirements can get. My best advice is to verify your local board’s rules before you spend money on equipment or a home studio.

Traditional and Hands-on Cosmetology Occupations

The Salon and Studio Landscape

This is the heart of the industry, but it isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” career. Inside the salon world, there are several cosmetology career opportunities depending on what you love doing most:

• Precision cutting and modern styling
• Advanced color chemistry and balayage
• Texture specialist roles
• High-end extensions
• Bridal and special event styling

Specialization is usually where you find the best cosmetology careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for hairstylists and cosmetologists was around $16.95 per hour as of May 2024, with roughly 84,200 job openings expected each year. While that is a broad average, specializing in high-demand services like color corrections or extensions can significantly shift your personal cosmetology careers salary.

Focusing on Esthetics and Nail Care

Many professions in cosmetology focus less on hair and more on the detailed work of skin and nails. If you enjoy a more routine, one-on-one environment, these are fantastic jobs in the cosmetology field.

The BLS reports that skincare specialists earn a median of $19.98 per hour, while manicurists and pedicurists are around $16.66 per hour. I like these paths because they often lead to very loyal, repeat clients who value the consistency of their monthly appointments.

The Underrated Path: Senior Living Communities

If you want more predictable hours and a built-in client base, look into senior living facilities. Companies like Resident Salon Services specifically hire licensed pros to work within these communities. It is a stable, care-focused way to use your skills without the constant pressure of chasing the latest TikTok hair trends.

The Creative Side: Stage, Screen, and Specialty Work

If you love the idea of storytelling or high-stakes environments, there are plenty of cosmetology opportunities in the creative arts.

This includes:

• Film and television production
• Fashion editorials and magazine shoots
• Theatrical and performance makeup

The BLS actually tracks makeup artists for theater and performance as a distinct category. If you’re aiming for the big screen, look at the IATSE Local 706 requirements, which often specify that a current license is needed for hair department roles.

Medical Support and Wigs

Some of the most meaningful work involves helping people through medical transitions. Specialized wig styling and “cranial prosthesis” (the medical term for wigs) are vital for clients dealing with hair loss.

The American Cancer Society provides resources on how patients can choose wigs, and the National Alopecia Areata Foundation helps clients navigate insurance reimbursement. As a licensed pro, you can be the bridge that helps these clients feel like themselves again.

Corporate Roles and Career Stability

If you are looking for cosmetology jobs with benefits and a more corporate structure, you might want to move “behind the scenes” of the brands you already use.

• Education and Training: Every major beauty brand needs people to teach stylists how to use their products. This could be anything from a local educator to a platform artist at major trade shows.
• Sales and Account Management: If you have a head for business, you can work as a sales rep for professional lines. You’re still in the beauty industry, but your day-to-day involves building relationships with salon owners rather than doing hair.

Can You Work From Home with a Cosmetology License?

I get asked this a lot. While you can’t physically cut hair over Zoom, there are real cosmetology jobs remote that allow for a better work-life balance.

Online Color Consulting

This is probably the most legit WFH path right now. Companies like eSalon hire licensed colorists to help customers find their perfect shade and troubleshoot application issues from home. It’s perfect if you love color theory but your body needs a break from the physical demands of the salon floor.

Digital Content and Brand Support

Your license gives you instant authority. You can use that to create educational content, write for beauty publications, or work in remote customer support for high-end beauty brands. When a customer has a technical question about a product, these brands want a licensed professional-not a generic chatbot-to answer them.

How Hogan Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics Prepares You for These Paths

If you’re sitting there thinking, “I want these options, but how do I actually start?” then your choice of school is the first big move. You need a program that doesn’t just teach you how to pass the state board, but one that prepares you for the “Beyond the Chair” opportunities I’ve mentioned.

At Hogan Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics (HoganICE), we focus heavily on making sure you are “Salon Ready” from day one. Here is why that matters for your career:

Comprehensive Master Cosmetologist Training

In Georgia, you need 1,500 hours to get your license. Our program covers the full spectrum-hair, skin, makeup, and nails. Because we use high-quality products like CHI, you are getting trained on the same tools used in top-tier salons and by major brands. This makes a huge difference if you eventually want to go into brand education or sales.

Real-World Experience on our Clinic Floor

You can’t learn the nuances of client retention or salon management by reading a book. At HoganICE, we have a full-service salon environment where you work on actual clients. I believe this is where the real confidence is built. We even encourage you to make mistakes while you’re in school, because that’s how you learn to solve problems before you’re out in the real world on your own.

Support for Your Job Search

We don’t just hand you a diploma and wish you luck. Our instructors help with the “unspoken” skills-things like resume writing, job seeking strategies, and how to build a client base that actually sticks with you. Whether you want to work in a high-end spa, a film set, or a corporate office, we provide the foundation of professionalism you need.

If you are wondering what careers can you do with a cosmetology license and which one fits you best, the easiest way to find out is to see our environment for yourself. You can book a tour at our Lilburn campus to ask about our schedules and see if the vibe matches your career goals.