What’s the difference between a hairstylist, a stylist, a hairdresser, a beautician and a cosmetologist? Nothing, really!
So what do all these words mean, and are they the same thing? The answer is yes, but some of these words are more culturally relevant than others. Keep scrolling to find out the difference.
First, Let’s Define Cosmetologist
First let’s define cosmetologist because you’ll see it come up a few times.
Cosmetologist is often the more formal term for someone trained in many beauty treatments. Cosmetology is the name of the practice that you are trained in when you enroll in a cosmetology program. This education covers hair, skincare, nails and makeup treatments and services in most states. Depending on the state, the license you receive after required completion of education and testing varies.
In Tennessee and Illinois you receive a cosmetologist license, and in Michigan you receive a cosmetology license.
Your license may have a formal name, but when you start working in at a salon, spa or anywhere else, you may be given a different title or may get to choose one.
Hairstylist
The term hairstylist is another name for a cosmetologist. These pros are licensed and trained in hair cutting, coloring, styling, makeup application and even basic skincare. Typically, someone takes on the title of hairstylist when they start working in the industry. Those who are considered hairstylists might offer skincare or makeup services, but they likely focus on all things hair.
Stylist
Stylist is just a shortened version of hairstylist. This is a bit more popular now, and is even used to help distinguish specialities such as an editorial stylist.
Hairdresser
Hairdresser is a term that is most often used by the older generation. A hairdresser is essentially the same thing as a hairstylist, but we haven’t seen this one used on Instagram or on resumes in 2018!
Beautician
This term is an even older term than hairdresser! Beautician was a common title for someone who worked in a salon. You may have seen this term used in some of your favorite hair-themed movies.
Cosmetician
A cosmetician was another interchangeable word with beautician, but these professionals typically focused on cosmetics rather than hair. Someone with this title might sell makeup or hair products for a business or freelance.
Hair Designer
In some states Hair Designer” is a specific license. In other states this is used just as a title for someone who focuses primarily on designing hair. This might incorporate cuts or colors, but usually means styling.
This term sounds a bit more artistic, and when used it usually refers to someone who takes their art to a whole new level: avant garde!
Hair Painter
This is a relatively new term, and it is used by someone who specializes in hair coloring treatments. These pros are always on the cutting edge of the latest hair coloring techniques and trends like balayage or unicorn hair. Just search this #hairpainters on Instagram, and you’ll see over 50k uses and over a million uses when you search #hairpainting.
Colorist
If you’ve seen someone use the title of colorist, they are probably someone who, like a hair painter, specializes their skills in coloring hair. If you are looking to find someone to give you a trendy hair color, find a colorist!
What Will You Be?
Are you looking to become a cosmetologist, stylist or hair painter? You’ll need an education! Contact Douglas J Institute in Michigan, Illinois or Tennessee! We can’t wait to help you learn more about the beautiful world of cosmetology!
