Hair Design vs Cosmetology: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve thought about pursuing the beauty industry, you probably already know that there are so many different programs to choose from. At Academy of Hair Design, we offer different programs in hopes that you’ll be able to find the right one for you and your goals.

Cosmetology and Hair Design are two programs that we offer, but often get confused. Although both professions offer hair care and hair services, there are a few key differences between the two. We’re going to talk about the differences in hopes that you’ll be able to pick which program is right for you.

What is Hair Design?

Hair Design, as the term implies, works specifically with hair. If you love all things hair, then this program might be the best fit for you. At Academy of Hair Design, our hair design program can cover cutting, coloring, the latest hair trends, and more to give you established experience in all things hair.

We want our students to succeed and go into a career that they love. Here are some potential career opportunities when going into Hair Design:

• Hair Stylist
• Color Specialist
• Perm Specialist
• Hair Straightening Specialist
• Scalp Specialist
• Salon Manager
• Platform Artist
• Product Line Representative
• Product Line Educator

What is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology is “the cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair, and nails”, which means that a licensed professional can provide a wide range of beauty services. If you have a passion for all things beauty, then our cosmetology program could be the right fit for you.

Here are potential career opportunities if you choose to pursue an education in cosmetology:

• Hair Stylist
• Color Specialist
• Manicure and/or Pedicure Technician
• Facial Technician
• Make-up Artist
• Salon Manager
• Platform Artist
• Product Line Representative
• Product Line Educator

Hair Design vs Cosmetology

Now that we’ve talked about what hair design and cosmetology are, let’s dive into the key differences between the two programs.

Hours required

Our hair design program requires 1,000 hours total, meaning that it can be completed in about 9 months depending on which schedule you choose. Our cosmetology program consists of 1,600 hours, which can be completed in just under a year with a full-time schedule.

If you’re worried about fitting our programs into a busy schedule, we offer several scheduling options to help start your journey into the beauty industry. As a student at our school, you can choose between morning or afternoon classes and half-time or full-time. No need to worry about fitting it into your already busy life. We do our best to offer a flexible schedule so that you can pursue your passion for beauty.

What you’ll learn

Our Hair Design Curriculum covers these topics:

• Hair Cutting
• Hair Coloring
• Scalp Treatments
• Styling
• Bleaching
• Ombre
• Balayage
• Perming
• Chemical Relaxing
• Up-Do’s
• Reception Desk & Dispensary
• Client Skills
• Salon Management
• Nevada Law Compliance
• Theory

In our cosmetology program you’ll learn the following skills:

• Hair Cutting
• Hair Styling
• Color/Tint
• Balayage
• Ombre
• Facials
• Eyelashes
• Waxing
• Microdermabrasion
• Make Up
• Manicures
• Pedicures
• Reception and Dispensary
• Salon Management
• Nevada Law Compliance

Pursue a Future in Beauty

Regardless of which program you pick, both programs give you an opportunity to become a licensed professional. It’s a growing field and is projected to grow 11% within the next 9 years. If you value creativity and innovation, now is the perfect time to get started in the industry!

Whether you want to study cosmetology or hair design, there are many opportunities for you out there in the beauty industry.  Contact us if you have any questions about our programs and how you can begin the application process. We can’t wait to hear from you and discuss your future in beauty!