The launch of Minnesota’s new hair technician license in July 2024 brought exciting changes to the industry. However, it also sparked questions among newcomers: Which license should I pursue—cosmetology or hair technician?
We’re here to break down the confusion between the two licenses and help you find the program that aligns with your goals.
Click on the [citations] for additional information in the MN Rules & Statues.
Scope of Practice
The first thing to note is that both the cosmetology and hair technician licenses allow you to practice hair professionally in Minnesota. [1] The main difference lies in the services each license permits you to offer.
Cosmetology
The cosmetology license is ideal for those looking to work with hair while also branching into other areas of beauty.
With this license, you’re qualified to provide hair services, as well as work with skin, nails, and eyelash extensions. [2]
While you’re not obligated to offer all of these services in your career, being licensed in multiple areas gives you the flexibility to choose what suits you best.
Hair Technician
The hair technician license is a great fit for those who are solely interested in doing hair.
This license covers the same aspects as the cosmetology license including cutting, coloring, chemically processing, and styling hair, without the addition of skin, nails or eyelash extensions. [3]
Now that Minnesota offers beauty industry licenses a la carte, those interested in just a few areas can hold dual licenses, like hair technician & nails, or hair technician & eyelash extensions.
Hours/Program Length
Regardless of which license you pursue, the state of Minnesota requires a certain number of education hours before you can apply for licensure.
The cosmetology license requires 1550 hours of education, which typically takes about 11-12 months to complete in a full time program. [4]
The hair technician license requires 900 hours of education, taking about 6-7 months to complete in a full time program. [3]
Focus of Study
Now that we’ve discussed the differences between the two licenses, let’s dive into what you learn in each training program.
Cosmetology
Hair: Cosmetology students master beginner and advanced cutting techniques and formal and casual hair styling. They also learn color formulation, highlighting, balayage, and color corrections, as well as chemical processes like perming and relaxing.
Skin: Students gain expertise in skincare essentials, including facials, waxing, brow and lash tinting, and eyebrow lamination, to provide tailored treatments.
Nails: Training covers manicures and pedicures with natural or gel polish, along with spa treatments, hand and foot massage, acrylic tips, sculpted extensions, and creative nail art.
Eyelash Extensions: Aspiring cosmetologists learn to apply and remove classic eyelash extensions, assess face and eye shapes, and create custom lash mapping.
Hair Technician
Cut: Hair technician students begin with foundational cutting techniques and advance to mastering complex shapes and precision cuts.
Style: Styling training includes blowouts, iron sets, and creating formal updos, ensuring students can craft looks for any occasion.
Color: Students study the color wheel to perfect tint formulations and application methods, including toning, highlighting, and balayage.
Chemical Processing: The program also covers chemical treatments like perms and relaxers, teaching students to achieve desired textures safely and effectively.
Both
While the cosmetology and hair technician programs have slightly different content, both with cover some of the same material.
Safety and Sanitation: Both programs emphasize the importance of maintaining proper safety and sanitation practices to protect clients and practitioners in the salon environment.
Business Building: Students in both programs learn essential business skills, including creating resumes, building and retaining a clientele, and understanding typical salon expectations.
MN Laws & Rules: Students receive comprehensive instruction on Minnesota state laws and regulations, ensuring they are well-prepared to stay compliant in their industry.
State to State Transfer
An important factor to consider when choosing which license is right for you is considering whether or not you want to move out of state in the future.
All beauty industry licenses vary in requirements from state-to-state and require a transfer process if you choose to move states.
While all 50 states and Washington DC offer a cosmetology license, only some states currently offer a hair technician license or the equivalent.
As of July 2024, there are 13 states that offer a hair technician license: Arizona, Colorado, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.
Those attempting to transfer a hair technician license to a state that does not offer an equivalent license may have to incur additional training.
Pros and Cons
Both programs provide a wide variety of knowledge as well as the license necessary to practice your craft in the state of Minnesota. In order to make your decision, there are a few pros and cons to consider.
Cosmetology
PROS:
CONS:
Hair Technician
PROS:
CONS:
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
By understanding the key differences between the cosmetology and hair technician licenses—scope of practice, education requirements, and curriculum—you can choose the path that best suits your career ambitions.
Whether you’re passionate about mastering all aspects of beauty or specializing in hair, both licenses provide valuable opportunities to build a successful future in the industry.
No matter which license you choose to pursue, the Atelier Academy is here to guide you along your education journey! Click the links below to explore more information about our cosmetology and hair technician programs.
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