To advance your career as a cosmetologist, you need a powerful resume that conveys your unique background in delivering solid beauty services. Demonstrate your ability to build positive long-term relationships with diverse clientele and generate repeat business. Emphasize your talent for identifying ideal hairstyles and skin treatments according to individual customer needs. Throughout this guide, we’ll provide many expert tips to help you build an eye-catching resume that tells your story within the cosmetology industry.

Key takeaways:

  • Highlight your cosmetology talents: Feature your expertise as a cosmetologist by displaying specific techniques and services, such as skin treatments, hairstyling, and makeup artistry.
  • Quantify your achievements: Showcase hard numbers and metrics to convey your proven track record of success within the beauty industry, such as client retention rates, product sales, and customer satisfaction scores.
  • Incorporate keywords from the job description: Include key terms from the job posting, such as hair coloring, facials, upselling, and customer service, to align your resume with applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Cosmetology Resume Templates and Examples (Download in App)

Cosmetology Student Resume Example

Why this cosmetology student resume is strong:

This resume emphasizes hands-on training, relevant experience, and a commitment to learning. It’s ideal for entry-level candidates pursuing their first role in the industry. Learn more about crafting a student resume: How To Write a Student Resume.


Cosmetology Resume With No Experience Example

Why this cosmetology resume with no experience is strong:

This resume focuses on transferable skills and volunteer experience, making it strong for workforce candidates. Discover tips for no-experience resumes: How To Write a Resume With No Experience.


Beginner Cosmetology Resume Example

Why this beginner cosmetology resume is strong:

This resume highlights practical learning experiences and customer service skills, demonstrating a solid foundation for growth. Learn how to create an impactful summary visit our guide on resume objectives.


Senior Cosmetology Instructor Resume Example

Why this cosmetology instructor resume is strong:

This resume combines teaching expertise and industry experience, demonstrating an ability to educate and inspire future professionals. Learn more about teaching-focused resumes: Teaching Skills for Resume.


Cosmetology Educator Resume Example

Why this cosmetology educator resume is strong:

This resume demonstrates leadership and innovation, with a focus on training and mentorship. For more tips on how to utilize bullet points effectively on your resume, visit our guide.


Technical Cosmetology Teacher Resume Example

Why this cosmetology teacher resume is strong:

This resume highlights teaching accomplishments, student success rates, and leadership in the beauty industry. Learn about building a teaching-focused resume: Teaching Skills for Resume.


Cosmetology Graduate Resume Example

Why this cosmetology graduate resume is strong:

This resume emphasizes practical experience gained through internships and a focus on customer satisfaction. Visit our guide for more tips on creating high-impact resume profiles.


Cosmetology Assistant Resume Example

Why this cosmetology assistant resume is strong:

This resume highlights essential support skills and teamwork abilities, making it ideal for entry-level salon roles. Learn more about describing your professional experience in our guide.


Experienced Cosmetology Resume Example

Why this cosmetology resume example is strong:

This resume highlights technical expertise alongside client relationship management, showcasing well-rounded abilities. For more insights on identifying the right skills for your resume, visit our guide.


General Cosmetology Resume Example

Why this cosmetology resume is strong:

This resume features a well-defined career objective and quantifiable achievements, making it compelling for hiring managers. For more tips on building your resume, visit our comprehensive guide.


Advanced Cosmetologist Resume Example

Why this advanced cosmetologist resume is strong:

This resume emphasizes advanced techniques and mentorship skills, making it ideal for senior cosmetology roles. Learn more about how to structure your resume here: Best Resume Formats.


Cosmetology Specialist Resume Example

Why this cosmetology specialist resume is strong:

This resume highlights a balance of technical skills and client-focused achievements. Learn about integrating keywords into resumes here: Resume Keywords.


Cosmetology Consultant Resume Example

Why this cosmetology consultant resume is strong:

This resume demonstrates client relations and sales expertise, showcasing the ability to drive revenue. Learn more about highlighting transferable skills: Transferable Skills Resume.


Cosmetology Business Owner Resume Example

Why this cosmetology business owner resume is strong:

This resume highlights entrepreneurial achievements, leadership skills, and a proven track record of salon growth. Learn how to showcase leadership in your resume here: Leadership Skills for Resume With Examples.


Bridal Cosmetologist Resume Example

Why this bridal cosmetologist resume is strong:

This resume focuses on event-specific skills and showcases success in creating memorable bridal experiences. Learn more about tailoring resumes for niche roles here: How To Tailor Resume to Job Description.


Celebrity Cosmetologist Resume Example

Why this celebrity cosmetologist resume is strong:

This resume highlights unique skills in serving high-profile clients and emphasizes discretion and expertise in high-pressure environments. To learn more about how to capture your professional experience, visit our guide.


Salon Manager Resume Example

Why this salon manager resume is strong:

This resume combines the candidate’s solid background in leadership, client service, and business growth, making it ideal for management positions. Learn about how to capture your leadership skills in our guide.


Freelance Cosmetologist Resume Example

Why this freelance cosmetologist resume is strong:

This resume highlights entrepreneurial skills and emphasizes personalized client care, ideal for independent professionals. Learn about how to create an eye-catching resume summary here: How To Write a Convincing Resume Profile.


Spa Cosmetologist Resume Example

Why this spa cosmetologist resume is strong:

This resume emphasizes expertise in luxury services and client satisfaction, making it appealing for high-end spa positions. Learn more about what content to prioritize in your resume here: What To Put on a Resume.


Makeup Artist Resume Example

Why this makeup artist resume is strong:

This resume showcases specialization in diverse techniques and event services, making it highly competitive. To learn more about enhancing your bullet points with proactive language, visit our guide: Resume Action Words.


Cosmetology Text-Only Resume Examples and Templates

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  • Cosmetology Student
  • Cosmetology Resume With No Experience
  • Beginner Cosmetology
  • Senior Cosmetology Instructor
  • Cosmetology Educator
  • Technical Cosmetology Teacher
  • Cosmetology Graduate
  • Cosmetology Assistant
  • Experienced Cosmetology
  • General Cosmetology
  • Advanced Cosmetologist
  • Cosmetology Specialist
  • Cosmetology Consultant
  • Cosmetology Business Owner
  • Bridal Cosmetologist
  • Celebrity Cosmetologist
  • Salon Manager
  • Freelance Cosmetologist
  • Spa Cosmetologist
  • Makeup Artist
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Emily Green
[email protected] | (555) 123-4567 | City, ST | LinkedIn

Aspiring cosmetologist with a passion for creativity and learning
Dedicated cosmetology student with hands-on hairstyling, skin care, and makeup application training. Focused on delivering reputable client experiences while building technical expertise.

Key Skills

  • Haircutting and styling
  • Makeup application
  • Skin care basics
  • Customer service
  • Time management

Professional Experience

Student Stylist, Aveda Institute, Miami, FL | January 2024 – Present

  • Provided hair and makeup services to 50+ clients as part of hands-on training
  • Consult with clients to determine preferences and ensure satisfaction
  • Assist instructors during demonstrations and maintained a clean workspace

Retail Associate, Beauty Plus, Miami, FL | May 2023 – December 2023

  • Advised customers on beauty products, increasing sales by 15%
  • Maintained product displays and ensured inventory accuracy

Education

Cosmetology Certificate | Expected May 2025
Aveda Institute | Miami, FL

How To Write a Cosmetology Resume Example

The first step in writing a cosmetology resume is to select a suitable layout to prioritize your qualifications, skills, and achievements effectively. As a beauty specialist, limited use of color and visual elements are acceptable, provided your template design doesn’t overshadow your content. Before building your document, be sure your resume includes the following sections:

  • Contact information
  • Profile
  • Key skills
  • Professional experience
  • Education and certifications

1. Share your contact information

Include your full name, phone number, email, and city/state. Add links to your LinkedIn profile or a portfolio showcasing your most impressive client successes. Carefully review the accuracy of your information to ensure the hiring manager can easily reach out to schedule an interview.

Template:

Your Name
[email protected] | (123) 456-7890 | City, ST | LinkedIn | Portfolio

2. Write a compelling profile summarizing your cosmetology qualifications

To immediately make a lasting impression on the reader, lead your resume with an impactful opening summary that provides an engaging overview of your career within the beauty industry. Start by listing your title, years of experience, and three to four cosmetology-related skills that match the salon’s needs. Then paint a picture of your creativity and success as a cosmetologist. For example, if you have provided outstanding beauty services for advertising agencies during commercials and photo shoots, highlight this aspect of your experience directly in your profile.

Senior-level example:

Experienced cosmetologist with a passion for enhancing client confidence

Cosmetologist with over eight years of experience specializing in advanced hair styling, color techniques, and skin care services. Known for building strong client relationships, improving retention rates by 30%, and mentoring junior stylists.

Entry-level example:

Certified cosmetologist offering solid client care

Dedicated cosmetologist recently certified and trained in modern styling and skin care techniques. Focused on providing personalized client services while staying updated on industry trends.

3. Add a results-driven professional experience section

The professional experience section serves as the foundation of your resume, allowing you to illustrate your most impressive accomplishments as a cosmetologist. Avoid simply reiterating daily tasks and job responsibilities when crafting your bullet points. Demonstrate how your creative approach to beauty services has delivered great value to your salons and clients. For example, highlighting a notable increase in repeat business is a great way to show employers that customers are highly satisfied with your work.

Senior-Level Professional Experience Example:

Cosmetologist, Luxe Salon, Miami, FL | May 2015 – Present

  • Built a loyal client base, increasing repeat business by 40% over three years
  • Specialize in advanced balayage techniques, attracting 25+ new clients monthly
  • Trained 10 junior stylists in cutting-edge hair coloring methods, improving team performance

Entry-Level Professional Experience Example:

Styling Assistant, Bella Beauty Spa, Austin, TX | June 2023 – April 2025

  • Supported lead stylists in executing complex hair treatments, ensuring client satisfaction
  • Managed salon appointments and provided product recommendations, boosting retail sales by 15%
  • Shadowed skin care specialists, gaining hands-on experience in facials and chemical peels

Resume writer’s tip: Quantify your experience

Incorporating a range of eye-catching metrics helps establish your credibility as a creative beauty specialist. As you reflect on your work history, consider how you’ve consistently exceeded expectations at your previous salons. Did customers constantly leave positive reviews due to your services? Did you increase client retention by a substantial margin? Did you consistently upsell beauty products? You’ll greatly increase your odds of landing the interview by featuring these numbers.

Do
  • "Increased client retention by 30% by providing personalized follow-ups and consistent service excellence."
Don’t
  • "I was responsible for ensuring client satisfaction while performing facials and haircuts."

Resume writer’s tip: Tailor your resume for each application

Just like each client has their own unique preferences, employers often look for candidates with specific skill sets that match the needs of their salon. When writing your professional experience section, be sure to highlight specific types of hairstyles and beauty services mentioned in the job description to show hiring managers you’re the ideal fit for the role.

What if you don’t have experience?

If you’re entering the beauty industry for the first time, you can still craft an engaging resume to position yourself for entry-level opportunities. In this situation, draw attention to the experience you garnered while completing your cosmetology program and achieving your license. Although these weren’t paid positions, it still shows you have hands-on training providing beauty services to clients.

4. Include relevant education and certifications

Unlike other professions, cosmetologists aren’t normally required to have a bachelor’s degree. Instead, you’ll need to obtain an associate of applied science (A.A.S) in cosmetology to obtain your state license. In addition, you can also pursue specialized industry credentials to further broaden your knowledge and skill sets as a beauty specialist, such as an Advanced Makeup Artistry Certification or Laser Hair Removal Certification.

Education

Template:

[Degree Name and Major] | [Graduation Date]
[School Name] | [City, ST]

Example:

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S) Cosmetology | May 2024
Aveda Institute | Los Angeles, CA

Certifications

Template:

[Certification Name] | [Awarding Organization] | [Completion Date]

Example:

  • Certified Makeup Artist (CMA) | January 2025
  • Advanced Hair Coloring Techniques | June 2024

5. List pertinent key skills

In today’s job market, most salons will likely employ some form of ATS to streamline the hiring process and identify qualified candidates for job openings. To pass the initial screening process, feature a blend of cosmetology techniques and communication skills that align with the job description. This shows you have a comprehensive knowledge of beauty services and interpersonal traits to build meaningful relationships with your clients. Below, you’ll find a list of skills to consider featuring on your cosmetologist resume:

Key Skills:
Advanced hair coloring techniques Bridal makeup application
Business operations Chemical treatments
Client relations Client relationship management
Communication Customer service
Hairstyling and cutting Laser hair removal
Makeup artistry Relationship building
Sales Skin care services
Upselling

Resume writer’s tip: Use common action verbs

Start each bullet point with a powerful action verb to add an engaging and dynamic element to your writing. This lets you take proper ownership of your achievements and paint a clearer picture of your contributions for the hiring manager. Avoid using words and phrases such as “worked,” “responsible for,” and “helped,” as passive language often frames your accomplishments as mundane job responsibilities.

Action Verbs
Achieved Advised
Applied Built
Communicated Conducted
Created Delivered
Enhanced Generated
Improved Managed
Performed Provided
Recommended Styled
Supported Trained
Upsold

How To Pick the Best Cosmetology Resume Template

Choose a clean, professional template that emphasizes your skills and experience without overwhelming visuals. Avoid heavy graphics or excessive colors, as they may distract from your content. Focus on a format that organizes your information effectively and aligns with potential employers’ brand image.

Frequently Asked Questions: Cosmetology Resume Examples and Advice

How do you align your resume with a cosmetology job description?

Studies from the Bureau of Labor Statistics project a 7% increase in growth for cosmetology occupations over the next decade. Although long-term indicators for the profession are encouraging, it’s still important to align your resume with the job description. The best salons are always looking to recruit top talent, and having a carefully tailored resume can help set you apart from other candidates.

For example, if an employer is looking for a cosmetologist with a creative mindset, emphasize how you’ve delivered innovative hairstyles, makeup art, and nail art designs to help clients achieve their beauty goals. If a salon is looking for a professional with expertise in skin care treatments, highlight your extensive knowledge of health and safety protocols.

What is the best cosmetology resume format?

Reverse chronological is the ideal format for cosmetologists. This approach features your most recent and relevant experience towards the top of your document, immediately showcasing your strongest professional achievements. A combination format should only be considered if you’re entering the field for the first time and need to highlight skills, certifications, and training to compensate for a lack of work history.

Expert advice: include a cover letter with your resume

Once you’ve completed your cosmetologist resume, consider complementing it with a personalized cover letter to enhance the strength of your application further. Emphasize your genuine passion and creativity as a beauty consultant. Mention something specific about the salon’s reputation, and why this draws you to apply for the opportunity. This adds a personal touch that can sometimes make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.

Andrew Stoner

Executive Resume Writer and Career Coach

Andrew Stoner is an executive career coach and resume writer with 17 years of experience as a hiring manager and operations leader at two Fortune 500 Financial Services companies, and as the career services director at two major university business schools.

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