Here’s what you can expect when you enroll in a cosmetology program like the one at Brillare Beauty Institute.
Let’s start with what most people think of first: cutting and styling hair. In cosmetology school, you’ll build foundational knowledge in haircutting techniques, from basic one-length cuts to advanced layered styles. You’ll learn to use shears, clippers, razors, and texturizing tools safely and creatively.
Styling goes beyond blowouts and braids. You’ll master updos, roller sets, flat iron finishes, and more, plus learn how to tailor each look to your client’s face shape, lifestyle, and personal goals. Whether you’re going for volume, texture, smoothness, or movement, you’ll develop the skills to deliver it all.
Hair color is part art, part chemistry. So naturally, cosmetology school dives deep into how color works, from understanding the color wheel to learning about developer levels, tone, lift, and how to achieve the perfect shade without compromising hair health.
You’ll get hands-on practice with real clients in our student-run SalonSpa. Expect to learn techniques like balayage, highlights, root touch-ups, and color correction, while also learning how to mix and apply formulas with precision. Clients trust their stylists with major transformations, and your education ensures you’re ready to deliver stunning results.
Chemical services include perms, relaxers, and straightening treatments, all of which reshape the natural texture of hair. These services require a strong understanding of hair structure and safe application techniques. At Brillare, you’ll learn how to consult with clients, assess their hair type, and provide custom solutions that fit their needs.
You’ll also gain experience with smoothing treatments and modern services that change hair’s texture without damaging it. Whether you’re working with curls or aiming for sleek, frizz-free results, you’ll know exactly how to get there.
Even if your passion is hair, having a strong grasp of makeup can open doors in editorial styling, weddings, events, and more. Cosmetology school covers makeup fundamentals, including color matching, contouring, eye shadow techniques, and product sanitation.
You’ll also learn to apply makeup for different face shapes, skin tones, and lighting conditions. From natural beauty looks to bold transformations, these skills help you diversify your offerings and boost client satisfaction.
While esthetics is a separate path, a strong cosmetology school program gives you a foundational knowledge of skincare. You’ll learn about different skin types, how to analyze them, and how to recommend basic care routines that align with a client’s needs.
Facial massage techniques, light exfoliation, and proper product use are often part of the curriculum. This knowledge helps you spot potential skin concerns and position yourself as a trusted beauty advisor.
Before you pick up your shears or mix any product, you’ll study the rules of sanitation and safety. These guidelines are required for licensure and essential for protecting your clients and your career.
Cosmetology school will teach you how to disinfect tools, sanitize workstations, and follow the latest regulations around product handling and client health. You’ll also become familiar with your state’s licensing laws so you’re fully prepared to take and pass your board exams.
Curious what life at Brillare really looks like? Book a tour of our cosmetology school in Cleveland, Chattanooga, or St. Louis and get a firsthand look at our student-run SalonSpa and curriculum in action.
As with any part of the service industry, one of the most important parts of the job isn’t cutting or coloring, but listening. Brillare emphasizes client communication and teaches you how to conduct thorough consultations before starting any service.
You’ll learn how to ask the right questions, translate vague requests into clear styles, and set realistic expectations. You’ll also build confidence in talking about products, pricing, and maintenance, all key to creating a strong client relationship and generating repeat business.
To succeed in the beauty industry, you need more than hands-on skills. You need business savvy, too. Our cosmetology school includes training in salon operations, scheduling, inventory, and customer service.
You’ll also gain insight into personal branding, professional social media use, and building your portfolio. Whether you dream of opening your own salon or becoming a sought-after freelancer, this foundation sets you up for long-term success.
With this curriculum in mind, there are some other tips you should know to make the most of your career in the beauty industry.
Graduating from cosmetology school is a major accomplishment—but it’s not the final step. After completing your required hours and coursework, you’ll need to pass your state board exam. This includes both a written portion and a practical demonstration of your skills.
Brillare incorporates exam preparation into our program so you feel confident and ready. From timed practice sessions to one-on-one coaching, we help ensure you’re fully prepared to earn your license and step into the beauty industry with pride.
Not everyone has the same schedule or lifestyle. To accommodate this, Brillare offers flexible scheduling options to meet students where they are. Whether you want to dive in full speed or balance school with work or family, we accommodate your lifestyle without sacrificing quality.
And, if you’re a Tennessee resident thinking about enrolling in our cosmetology school in Chattanooga or Cleveland, or a Missouri resident considering our new St. Louis campus, all institutions offer the same high-quality training, expert instructors, and supportive community that make Brillare stand out.
By the time you complete our program, you’ll have mastered a wide range of skills that go beyond just styling hair. You’ll be able to color, cut, treat, style, consult, market, and manage, giving you the full package of what it means to be a beauty professional.
And you won’t be alone. From day one, you’ll have instructors, peers, and mentors in your corner, ready to guide and cheer you on. Cosmetology school is your gateway to a career that celebrates creativity, connection, and self-expression. And at Brillare, we make sure you shine every step of the way.
Brillare’s cosmetology school is designed to help students find their voice, refine their skills, and step into the beauty industry feeling empowered and capable. We use professional-grade tools and products, partner with leading industry brands, and provide real-world experience that prepares students for anything. When you graduate, you’ll have a strong foundation for a lifelong career. Enroll today
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Young-woman-with-hairdresser-sitting-at-beauty-salon-and-taking-selfie-on-smartphone.jpg 1250 2000 Abstrakt Marketing /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Abstrakt Marketing2025-06-12 14:00:012025-08-01 11:24:42How Long Does It Take to Begin a Cosmetologist Career?
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Close-up-of-young-woman-getting-spa-massage-treatment-at-beauty-spa-salon.jpg 1250 2000 Abstrakt Marketing /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Abstrakt Marketing2025-06-12 13:55:132025-08-01 11:24:42How Long Does Esthetician School Take?
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/How-to-Properly-Take-Before-and-After-Photos-of-Your-Clients.jpg 1250 2000 Abstrakt Marketing /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Abstrakt Marketing2025-05-08 13:51:202025-08-01 11:24:42How to Properly Take Before and After Photos of Your Clients
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Woman-making-beauty-procedures-at-a-beauty-salon.jpg 1250 2000 Paul Cook /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Paul Cook2025-01-27 20:01:002025-08-01 11:24:42Cosmetology Interview Best Practices for Your Success
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/How-to-Pay-for-Cosmetology-School.jpg 1250 2000 Paul Cook /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Paul Cook2024-08-19 20:55:172025-08-01 11:24:43How to Pay for Cosmetology School
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/People-at-Cosmetology-school.jpg 1250 2000 Paul Cook /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Paul Cook2024-08-07 18:51:362025-08-01 11:24:43Debunking Myths: Cosmetology School Facts
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Group-of-cosmetology-students-applying-makeup.jpg 1250 2000 Paul Cook /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Paul Cook2024-05-21 23:10:042025-08-01 11:24:43Bridging the Gap in Cosmetology Education
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Get-Ready-for-Summer-Visit-a-Beauty-School-Salon.jpg 1250 2000 Paul Cook /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Paul Cook2024-03-22 18:53:342025-08-01 11:24:43Get Ready for Summer: Visit a Beauty School Salon!
https://brillarebeautyinstitute.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Beyond-the-Classroom-How-Beauty-School-Creates-Long-Term-Careers.jpg 1250 2000 Paul Cook /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/brillare-logo-gradient-1030x442.png Paul Cook2024-03-22 18:44:392025-08-01 11:24:44Beyond the Classroom: How Beauty School Creates Long-Term Careers