Are you ready to become a cosmetologist in Florida? Not sure if you need a license? Let us answer your questions and show you the steps to becoming a licensed cosmetologist. Meridian College is ready to help you start a new career in a Florida salon.
Do I Need a License to be a Cosmetologist in Florida?
Yes, cosmetologists need to be licensed to see clients in Florida. This ensures that they are fully trained, but more importantly, they can keep clients safe while working with hazardous materials. When coloring hair, bleaching hair, adding chemical products, or performing mani/pedis, it is essential to use proper sanitation techniques to keep clients happy and healthy. You will be tested on these sanitation techniques and the fundamentals of cutting, coloring, and styling hair.
How Do I Get My Cosmetology License in Florida?
There are several steps you must take to get your cosmetology license. They include:
Step #1: Complete Cosmetology Program
To get your cosmetology license, you must complete a 1,200-hour cosmetology program. The Cosmetology program at Meridian College includes classroom lectures and hands-on experience in a student-run salon.
Step #2: Submit Application for Cosmetology License Exam
You can apply for a license with the Department of Business & Professional Regulations. Pearson Vue will contact you to schedule a time to complete the cosmetology exam.
Step #3: Pass the Cosmetology Exam
This is a two-part exam. Graduates of the cosmetology program must complete the exam within two years from the date of the first attempt.
Step #4: Complete HIV/AIDS Training Course
To keep yourself and everyone safe, you will learn about HIV/AIDS transmission and how to take proper precautions to safeguard yourself and your clients.
What Do I Learn During a Cosmetology Program?
Meridian offers a comprehensive cosmetology program with many courses that help you prepare for a role at a Florida salon. To qualify for graduation and to take the licensing exam, you must complete 1,200 hours of training in the following services:
Shampoos/Rinses
This coursework focuses on shampoo types that help improve hair care for dry, oily, or color-treated hair. You learn the proper techniques to shampoo and rinse a client’s hair. This includes massaging the client’s scalp, lathering the hair, and rinsing the hair thoroughly. You also learn about rinsing agents like conditioners, detanglers, and hair masks.
Scalp Treatment/Hair Care
During this course, you learn about different scalp types, their characteristics, and common problems clients will have caring for their scalp. You learn how to cleanse, condition, and nourish the scalp and hair properly. The curriculum includes topics like dandruff, dry scalp, and hair loss. A focus is placed on safe ways to style and manipulate hair to protect the scalp from damage.
Haircuts
This course focuses on the fundamentals of haircutting, including hair texture, growth patterns, and face shapes. You will get hands-on experience using cosmetology tools like scissors, clippers, and razors to cut and style hair. The experience with clients will help you hone your customer service skills to assess and consult your clients on their desired hairstyles. You will also learn how to offer advice on topics like laying, texturing, and styling types.
Hair Arranging
You learn the fundamentals of hairstyling using tools like brushes, combs, and hairpins. You learn about different hair products, including gels, hairsprays, and serums. During the course, you will also become proficient in different hairstyle techniques like braids, twists, and updos.
Hair Coloring/Bleaching
During this course, you learn about different hair coloring and bleaching techniques. Focusing on color and bleaching products will allow you to pick the safest and most effective products to color and bleach hair. You learn about color correction and the process of removing unwanted hair colors. You also get hands-on experience coloring and bleaching the hair of mannequins and actual clients.
Facials
This course focuses on providing effective and professional skincare techniques. You learn about skin types and conditions. You also learn about skin care products like cleansers, exfoliants, facial masks, and moisturizers.
Chemical Waving/Relaxing/Straightening
The chemical waving, relaxing, and straightening curriculum will review proper techniques using hazardous chemicals, hairstyling tools and equipment, and proper sanitation. You also learn about the potential risks of using chemical products, such as allergies and scalp irritations.
Manicure/Pedicure/Nail Extension
During this course, you learn proper techniques for administering manicures, pedicures, and nail extensions. You learn about proper preparation and nail-cleaning techniques. You also learn about nail care products and tools like polishes and acrylics.
Final Thoughts
Ready to take the first step toward a career as a cosmetologist? Let Meridian College teach you the knowledge and skills needed to prepare for the cosmetology license exam. Plus, we will be with you every step of the way.
Want to Learn More?
Are you ready to enjoy the many opportunities available in cosmetology? Meridian College offers a Cosmetology training program in Florida that prepares you to deliver high–quality beauty and hair services to both men and women. Their hands–on Cosmetology training program gives you the skills you need to start an exciting career and become a leader in the beauty industry.
Contact Meridian College today to learn more about becoming a cosmetologist.