The word "cosmetology," which is derived from the Greek word κοσμητικός, kosmtikos, means "skilled in adornment." and -λογία, -"logia". Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty treatment.

Becoming a cosmetologist :-
1) Get a degree to certified as cosmetologists.Programs are usually nine months to two years, depending on program.
2) You need to pass a licensing examination given by the state, which includes written and practical tests.
3)You'll need to work in your actual field in an apprenticeship-like program.Work at a salon for a full-time cosmetologist to learn more about the day-to-day activities of a cosmetologist.
4)Once you've obtained a cosmetology degree and have gone through the required amount of training, you can apply for a cosmetology license.

Types of cosmetologist
1)Electrologist - services offers with the use of an electrolysis machine.
2)Shampoo technician - shampoos and conditions a client's hair in preparation for the hair stylist
3)Manicurist - cosmetic treatment for the fingernails or hands
4)Beauty therapist or Esthetician - treatments including hair removal, massage, body wraps, etc
5)Nail technician - specializes in the art form and care of nails.

More information:-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cosmetology
http://www.reference.com/browse/cosmetology

Cosmetology is a Greek word meaning "skilled in adornment". It's the study of beauty treatment and the application of those treatments. Some specific branches of cosmetology include manicures, pedicures, skin care, hairstyling and electrology. Generally one has to have graduated from a licensed barber or cosmetology school and be at least 17 years of age or older. One can graduate from a general cosmetology course, private beauty school or a vocational school. They can then get a license in any of the cosmetology sub disciplines, or they can choose to study only to become a manicurist or esthetician. If you become a cosmetologist, you can be paid in a variety or ways. One way is through an hourly wage. Also, cosmetologists can earn tips from clients, commission on product sales and partial or total commission on services provided.

Cosmetology is a field that includes several specialties. Those who are barbers or hair stylists are part of the cosmetology field. As well, those specializing in nail care, such as manicurists and pedicurists, are Cosmetology.

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Cosmetology basically refers to treating hair, skin and nails. Sweetie already answered the word’s etymology. Moving on, there are two types of cosmetologist- a licensed cosmetologist and an unlicensed but practicing like simple beauticians. But as required by various states, a cosmetologist should hold a cosmetology license in order to practice and which is more demanded by beauty establishments. This is given once the aspiring person passed the exam. Cosmetology has various disciplines but in the US, it's generally beauticians.

Cosmetology, an exciting people-oriented occupation, is the study and application of beauty care. It is a profession that helps other individuals appear as well as feel exclusive.

Cosmetology started off in Greece. Its root word is cosmetic that is actually Greek in its origin and comes from two significant Greek words kosmetikos, denoting experienced in beautification, and kosmein, which means organized and appropriate.

Subsequently, cosmetology has developed into a career/profession or line of business that needs educational know-how and relevant qualifications to legally perform it. Cosmetology curriculums are particularly conceived for training aspirants in beauty treatments, beauty cares as well as personal grooming.

Various types of cosmetologists include estheticians, manicurists, and hair stylists. Cosmetologists perform with several types of beauty products and generally sell them at their beauty/hair salons, too.