Cosmetology Students and COVID-19

As a result, cosmetology schools and students are seeing some return to “normal” operations. Here’s an update on the status of cosmetology education during the pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the cosmetology industry and the students who plan to enter it. Many cosmetology schools have had to make big changes in how they teach, including transitioning to online learning or instituting hybrid solutions. On top of that, many states implemented restrictions on what kind of services beauty professionals are allowed to perform. In addition, there were many economic factors to consider, such as the need to reduce overhead costs, like rent and labor.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Cosmetology Schools

At the beginning of the pandemic, most states ordered a complete shutdown of all nonessential businesses, including cosmetology schools. This meant that the majority of cosmetology education was put on hold while the industry adjusted to the new reality.

Many cosmetology schools shifted to online or hybrid learning, while others decided to temporarily close until they could make a safe return. State boards of cosmetology also changed their regulations to allow students to continue their education virtually.

For those schools that remained open, there were extra precautions taken to ensure the safety of both students and staff. These included things like requiring masks and face shields, enforcing social distancing protocols, and regularly sanitizing spaces.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Students

For cosmetology students, the pandemic has presented new challenges. These include figuring out how to learn in an online environment as well as dealing with the added pressure of economic uncertainties.

For many, attending cosmetology school is a big financial commitment, so the shift to virtual learning has put extra strain on finances. Additionally, since online classes don’t provide the same hands-on experience as in-person learning, it has been a challenge for some students to get the same level of instruction they would have received in the classroom.

Thankfully, many states have now relaxed their COVID-19 restrictions, so many cosmetology schools are able to offer hybrid solutions to help better suit their students’ needs. This includes offering both in-person and online instruction, as well as reducing class sizes to allow for physical distancing.

Looking Ahead

Due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, many cosmetology schools have had to adjust their curriculum offerings and policies. Some schools have resorted to creative solutions, like offering virtual consultations with instructors and virtual meetings with industry professionals.

Although the pandemic has caused some disruption to the industry, ultimately it could be a positive for both cosmetology schools and their students. By shifting to a virtual learning platform, cosmetology schools can reach a broader student base and offer more customized instruction.

Cosmetology students have had to adapt to a lot of changes over the past two years, and many have proven to be resilient. With states relaxing COVID-19 restrictions, it is hoped that the future will bring a return to normalcy.