Behind the Scenes of the Cosmetology State Board Exam: A Teacher’s View

The cosmetology state board exam isn’t just a big day for students — it’s a big day for instructors, too. ✂️

💆‍♀️✨ Ever wondered why facials are part of cosmetology school?

It’s not just about pampering — it’s about mastering the science behind beauty. Understanding skin helps you become a stronger, safer, and more well-rounded stylist.

From client care to career versatility, facials teach skills that go way beyond the spa room.

🧴💖 Learn why every cosmetologist needs facial training — read the full blog

In the beauty industry, competition isn’t just about winning — it’s about growth, creativity, and connection.

Whether it’s a local classroom challenge or a national stage, competitions transform beauty students into professionals. They build confidence, sharpen technique, and open doors to exciting opportunities.

So here’s to the brave artists rolling up their sleeves, grabbing their combs, and going for it. 💪🎨 Every competition is a chance to grow — and the journey itself is always the real win.

Why Does Hair Flip Out? (And How to Fix It)

Let’s break down why hair flips out and how to work with it, not against it.

Why is old-age makeup such a staple in the SFX world? Because it’s both a technical and artistic puzzle. It’s not just about “drawing on” wrinkles—it’s about studying how the face changes with time and recreating that transformation with brushes, sponges, and a whole lot of patience.

One of the biggest turning points in your haircutting journey is realizing that cutting hair isn’t just about taking off length. The way you cut — blunt or texturized — completely changes the look, feel, and movement of the style.

Every cosmetology student eventually meets the Marcel—and it’s usually love/hate at first sight.

💖 Who’s your beauty school BFF? 💖

Sometimes it’s not a classmate… it’s your mannequin! From late-night practice sessions to fall competitions at Haywood Community College, mannequins see it all — messy buns, wild braids, and epic color experiments. ✂️

Celebrate your ultimate classroom sidekick with our Mannequin Bestie collection — tees, totes, and hats perfect for students and their mannequin BFFs!

Eyebrows aren’t just “hair above the eyes.” They frame the face, highlight the eyes, and communicate emotion — instantly. For beauty school students and aspiring stylists, mastering eyebrow makeup isn’t just about filling in gaps; it’s about understanding how brows influence perception and personality, whether on a client or a character in media.

Learning to cut hair in beauty school is one of the most exciting — and nerve-wracking — parts of your cosmetology journey. You’re stepping into a world of shears, sections, and styling techniques, and every snip brings you closer to becoming a skilled professional. But where do you start? How do you avoid common mistakes? And how can you practice effectively while still building confidence?

Here’s a guide to help you master haircuts during your training.

The first weeks of beauty school are just the beginning of your journey. Remember: everyone starts as a beginner, even the most famous stylists. Stay curious, stay patient with yourself, and most importantly—enjoy the ride.

Surviving Beauty School…

💖🌸💫 Celebrate your passion for hair with this “Balayage Is My Love Language” t-shirt! Crafted from 100% natural cotton, this tee is soft, breathable, and perfect for all-day comfort. The delicate soft pink floral background adds a feminine, chic touch, making it ideal for stylists, beauty enthusiasts, or anyone who lives for balayage 💖💕🌸