Hairstylists in Pennsylvania can shampoo, cut, perform chemical services, and color the hair. Treatments include massaging and scalp treatments. Licensed cosmetologists can also perform the functions of an esthetician, nail technician, or natural hair braider without additional licensure. Other related services include dressing wigs, hair removal, and makeup application.
Licensed cosmetologists can become hairstylists after completing 1,250 hours of education or 2,000 hours in an approved apprentice program. Hours earned in a program cannot be completed in less than eight months. Prospective students must have at least a 10th grade education or the equivalent. After completion students are required to take the state board examination that consists of theory and practical sections.
Related concentrations are achieved through additional hours of study ranging from 200 to 500 hours. Other licenses that may be earned are cosmetology teacher, esthetician, limited license, nail technician, and natural hair braider.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ national estimates reported the mean hourly wage for hairstylists as $13.02 and the mean annual wage as $27,070. National hourly wages range from $7.68 to $20.79 and annual wages from $15,980 to $43,250. Reported Pennsylvania statistics is $11.90 for the mean hourly wage and $24,740 for the mean annual wage.
The following states do not have an understanding of reciprocity for cosmetologists: Connecticut, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, New Jersey, New Mexico, Rhode Island and Utah. To obtain a cosmetologist license in Pennsylvania, the theory and practical sections of the state board examination must be taken and passed.
For more information on licensure in Pennsylvania:
Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology
P.O. Box 2649
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2649
Phone: (717) 783-7130
http://www.dos.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/bureau_of_professional___occupational_affairs/12483