Cosmetology vs. Esthetics in Denver, CO: School Recommendations & Career Paths

Question
Hi there Griffin, I am very interested in going to school for cosmetology or esthetics and am wondering if there are any schools you know much about or recommend.  I'm located in Denver, CO and am completely up in the air... Also, I am unsure as to if I should go into Hair cutting and coloring or esthetics, does one make more money over the other or is it all dependant on the salon and your experience level? Thanks! Alyssa

Answer
Hi Alyssa,
My school in Birmingham,Al was a privately owned school (which I think a lot of them are). I would just make sure you check the schools credentials, their state board pass rate (this will tell you how well they prepare their students to pass the board to get licensed). Visit as many schools as you can to get a feel for which one make you feel comfortable. I don't know for a fact, because I've only worked one side of it, but I would think one doesn't make more over the other. I think a lot of it has to do with your own abilities, how passionate you are about what you're doing, how knowledgeable you are, everyone goes online now and can look up anything so a lot of times people come in with preset notions or ideas and you need to be aware of what's out there ( I read a lot of trade magazines as well as mags like allure). Really having a dual license will not hurt you and could only expand your job opportunities. I worked with a girl who got her hail tech license and if she ever had a facial cancel or had free time she could always pick up a manicure or pedicure, and make more that way.
Good Luck
Griffin