Are you thinking of attending nail school? Potential career opportunities in this insider’s guide include becoming a nail technologist, manicurist and several other nail specializations. Let’s review how attending nail school can help you launch your career in the nail industry.
1. How Do You Become a Nail Tech?
For many people, a career as a nail tech starts with nail school.
Attending Cosmetology school or a general beauty school program will provide some manicuring training. However, the Nail Technology Program at Tricoci University of Beauty Culture provides in-depth professional training that includes hands-on practice and experience working with clients in the on-campus nail salon.
2. Can You Work in a Nail Salon Without a License?
In all states, you need a license to become a nail technician.
States have a wide range of requirements for nail tech licensing. While some states require training and a practical exam, other states require a written test.
In Illinois, the only licensing requirement for nail techs is a training program. In Indiana, nail tech licenses require training as well as passing a state licensing exam.
Up until recently, Connecticut an exception that had no license requirements. However, a recent law was passed that will require licenses after October 1, 2020.
3. What Types of Courses Do You Take in Nail School?
When you attend nail school, you’ll get in-depth training in nail techniques: manicuring, pedicuring, and nail tips, anatomy, art, and sculpture.
The Nail Technology program at Tricoci University also includes business basics so you’ll learn the salesmanship skills that can help you succeed.
Nail School also includes in-depth training on sanitation processes including how to comply with local and state laws, as well as comply with OSHA standards.
4. How Should You Prepare for Nail School?
It’s easy to start training to become a nail technologist.
First, determine which nail technician program will provide you with the quality training that can help you meet your career goals.
Next, review the admissions process. At Tricoci University, the requirements are easy. Applicants need to have a high school diploma or GED, and all students must be 16 years old by the first day of class.
For programs that are accredited, like Tricoci University, you can also apply for financial aid. Through this process, you could qualify for grants, scholarships, student loans and other funding options to help you pay for nail school.
5. How Long Does It Take to Become a Nail Tech?
The length of nail school varies by state. It can take anywhere from three to nine months, depending on where you live.
In Illinois, nail school can be finished in just four months by completing a part-time program with 350 hours of training. In Indiana, the part-time training program would take six months to complete the 600 hours.
6. What Are Fun and Interesting Nail Specialties?
As a nail technologist, you can specialize in one of these interesting areas:
Natural Nail Care: Non-toxic nail care is gaining popularity as people are choosing alternatives to the harsh chemicals of many nail salons. Not only can natural nail care help clients relax and feel pampered, natural products can also improve the salon work environment.
Men’s Nail Care: No longer is a nail salon seen as only the domain of women. Men’s nail care, along with other men’s grooming services, is making a resurgence.
Mobile Manicurist: Rather than performing nail treatments in a salon, mobile manicurists perform nail treatments at the client’s desired location. By offering a portable spa experience, you could provide nail treatments for bachelorette parties, at office buildings, or at any event.
Sports Manicures: Athletes can be tough on their hands and feet. Sports manicures and pedicures focus on nail health including moisturizing cuticles and addressing rough skin. As one pro baseball player explained, “My feet aren’t going to look any prettier from a pedi, but they feel better from the massaging.”
7. What Are Your Career Opportunities As a Nail Tech?
Manicurists are one of the most in-demand careers in the beauty industry.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job prospects for nail techs are expected to grow twice as fast as the rest of the labor market. There is a strong demand for nail services because treatments are considered an affordable luxury that helps clients to look and feel great.
In addition to working as a nail tech, the graduates of nail school also go on to become nail salon owners. With this career option, you’ll likely spend your time overseeing the business rather than performing nail treatments.
Learn more about how attending nail school can launch your beauty career.