She is seeking warm, gentle cosmetologists, people who will treat their customers with respect. Human beings retain a sense of touch long after other senses dull, she said. Even customers suffering with Alzheimer's recognize and respond to their beautician's voice and touch. Working with special patrons is not a specific part of cosmetologist training, said one educator. Coursework today, however, is comprehensive.
Training also is multiracial, with students learning to cut, color and dress various hair types.
The basic cosmetology course comprises 1,500 clock hours with theory demonstrated through hands-on exercises. New students, Drace said, tend to think studies will be easier than they really are. Bacteriology and sterilization are among topics covered. A typical student needs about 15 months to complete instruction before taking a one-day state licensing examination. Most students have high school diplomas.