Creating, designing, applying, and repairing nails is an exciting subset of the beauty field. Want to learn more about how to become a nail tech? Keep reading.
But first, what is a nail tech?
What is a nail tech?
A nail tech, also called a manicurist, is a cosmetologist who specializes in nail art.
What tasks do nail techs do?
A nail technician is a highly skilled professional. They have to stay up to date on the latest nail trends and be able to quickly learn how to do them for their clients. Like all other cosmetologists, they have to be able to perform their work safely and know how to sanitize their tools properly. They must also recognize the signs of health issues that a person’s nails may indicate.
How to become a nail tech:
The rules and requirements for how to become a nail tech depend on where you plan to practice. The vast majority of states have the following criteria:
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Graduate from High School
In addition to being a minimum age of sixteen, or eighteen in a few places, you also have to have a minimum of either a full high school diploma or a degree of early graduation. Without these, you won’t be eligible to apply for a formal cosmetology education and get your license, which is mandatory in most states.
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Complete a Cosmetology Course
Most places require you to have an official cosmetology license to join the nail technician field. However, this license is unobtainable if you haven’t gone through some relevant form of higher education. A good cosmetology course offers flexible scheduling and even financial aid to those that qualify so that you don’t have to give up on your dreams just because you’re going through a rough patch.
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Obtain your License
Once you have completed the mandatory minimum amount of education for your state, you may apply for your cosmetology license. This includes a written exam and a practical demonstration to show that you have the knowledge and skills needed to be a good nail technician.
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Develop your Skills
After all of that is done and you’re approved to join the field, you can start applying for jobs. The job market for new nail technicians is rapidly expanding so you should have a variety to choose from. Nail technicians never stop learning or trying to improve their skills.
Contact Chattanooga College to get started
Now that you have an idea of how to become a nail tech when you’re ready to embark on your career, get in touch with Chattanooga College. We offer affordable, comprehensive courses that give you a great start on your new professional path.