23 Dec 5 Beauty Career Options After High School Worth Exploring
Choosing a career after high school can feel overwhelming, but if you’re drawn to creativity, connection, and the chance to help people look and feel their best, the beauty industry might be the perfect fit. From barbering to skincare, there’s a world of opportunities that don’t require a traditional four-year degree. Instead, you can dive into hands-on training, build real skills, and start earning sooner than you might think.
The beauty industry offers endless possibilities. Here are five career paths worth exploring after high school that can lead to incredible opportunities.
1. Barber
Barbering is one of the oldest and most respected professions in the beauty industry, and it’s only growing in popularity. As a barber, you’ll specialize in cutting, styling, and grooming hair, as well as mastering beard trims and shaves. Barbers are in high demand in traditional barbershops, upscale salons, and even as private stylists for clients.
If you’re someone who enjoys working with your hands, building relationships, and seeing the immediate results of your work, barbering could be a great fit. Programs like The Barber School provide the hands-on training you need to get licensed and start building a career. Plus, with opportunities to open your own shop, you’ll have the freedom to create a business that reflects your unique style and vision.
2. Hair Stylist
Hair stylists focus on cutting and styling hair but also expand into services like coloring, extensions, and specialty treatments. This career is perfect for those who want to bring artistry and creativity to their work while helping clients transform their look.
One of the most exciting aspects of being a hair stylist is the chance to specialize. For example, The Barber School’s Hair Design program gives graduates the skills to offer services like blonde highlights, gray blending, and other color treatments. These additional skills enhance your earning potential but also allow you to build a more diverse and loyal client base. Whether you work in a high-end salon, run your own business, or cater to clients at home, hair styling is a career that offers flexibility, creativity, and growth.
There are two ways to go about being a hair stylist. You can go to cosmetology school where you’ll learn skin and nail techniques along with hair, or you can do a hair design program. If you’re only interested in doing hair without the extra beauty services, a hair design program like the one at The Barber School would be perfect for you.
3. Esthetician
If you’re passionate about skincare and love helping people feel confident in their own skin, becoming an esthetician might be the perfect path for you. Estheticians are experts in facial treatments, waxing, makeup application, and personalized skincare routines. They work in spas, salons, dermatology offices, and even as independent beauty consultants.
What’s great about this field is its versatility—whether you want to create a calm and relaxing environment for clients or specialize in medical-grade skincare, the options are endless. As demand for skincare services grows, so does the need for skilled professionals. Starting your journey with a solid education will help you build the expertise and confidence to create lasting results for your clients while building a thriving career.
4. Nail Technician
For those with a knack for detail and creativity, working as a nail technician can be a fulfilling career option. Nail techs specialize in manicures, pedicures, and nail art that help clients express their personal style.
One of the best parts about becoming a nail technician is the flexibility. You can work in a salon, set up a mobile nail service, or even open your own nail studio. With a relatively low start-up cost, it’s an accessible way to step into the beauty industry and grow at your own pace. Plus, with the rise of social media, nail art has become viral, which gives you even more ways to showcase your work and connect with potential clients.
5. Beauty Influencer or Educator
In today’s digital world, the beauty industry extends far beyond salons and spas. Influencers create tutorials, share product reviews, and showcase their skills on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, often partnering with beauty brands to reach wide audiences. Educators, on the other hand, use their expertise to teach others through online courses, workshops, or in-person classes, helping aspiring professionals master their craft.
What makes this career path exciting is the ability to combine creativity and entrepreneurship. With a solid foundation in beauty skills, such as those offered at The Barber School, you’ll have the credibility and knowledge to stand out in a competitive space. Whether you’re teaching people how to perfect their haircuts or reviewing the latest beauty products, this career lets you connect with others and share your passion for the industry while building your personal brand and earning an income.
Contact The Barber School for More Information
The beauty industry offers endless opportunities to turn your passion for creativity and self-expression into a fulfilling career. Whether you’re drawn to barbering, hairstyling, skincare, nail artistry, or even becoming a beauty influencer, there’s a path for you to follow after high school. Each of these careers allows you to connect with people, showcase your skills, and build a future doing something you love.
If you’re ready to take the first step, The Barber School is here to help. Our Barber and Hair Design programs are designed to give you the hands-on training and knowledge you need to thrive in this dynamic industry. Contact us today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you start your journey toward an exciting and rewarding career.