Cosmetology & Beauty Schools Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Cosmetology Schools and Beauty Schools), By Application (Men and Women), and Regional Forecast to 2035

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COSMETOLOGY & BEAUTY SCHOOLS MARKET OVERVIEW

The global Cosmetology & beauty schools Market is set to rise from USD 9.17 Billion in 2025 to USD 9.61 Billion in 2026, on track to hit USD 14.65 Billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 4.8% between 2025 and 2035.

Cosmetology and beauty schools give hands- on training in hair styling, skincare, makeup art, and nail care. These programs educate scholars’ essential ways, hygiene practices, and business chops to prepare for a career in the beauty assiduity. Specialized courses in aesthetics, barbering, or advanced hair colouring is being offered by many schools. Scholars frequently complete a set number of training hours before taking state licensing examinations. Beauty schools emphasize creativity, client service, and assiduity trends, helping graduates secure jobs in salons, gyms, or indeed start their own businesses. With growing demand, cosmetology offers a satisfying career path for those passionate about beauty and self- care.

The cosmetology and beauty academy market is expanding due to rising demand for professed beauty professionals, adding consumer interest in self- care, and the growing influence of social media trends. Schools are conforming by offering flexible literacy options, including online courses and technical instruments in makeup, skincare, and hairstyling. International expansion and franchising are also contributing to market growth. Also, advancements in beauty technology and sustainable practices are shaping classes. As the assiduity evolves, beauty schools are fastening on invention, entrepreneurship, and inclusivity, attracting a different range of scholars seeking careers in salons, gyms, beauty tech, and independent businesses.

KEY FINDINGS

COVID-19 IMPACT

Cosmetology & beauty schools Industry had a negative Effect Due to decreased demand during COVID-19 Pandemic

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing lower-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to the market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The COVID- 19 lockdown limitations have caused hairstylist shops and hair salons to close each around the world, which has had an impact on income internationally, particularly in 2020 and 2021. To lower their chance of contracting the coronavirus, governments throughout the world have also prompted people to avoid going to salons and to cleave to social conventions of distance. During the height of the COVID- 19 extremity, enterprises with hand vacuity throughout salons presented a challenge to numerous members of the business. Despite the sector's recovery in 2022, these issues limited the request share for salon services encyclopedically.

LATEST TRENDS

Rise of Sustainable Beauty Education to Drive Market Growth

Recent traits inside the cosmetology & beauty schools industry include the rise of sustainable beauty education, integrating eco-friendly practices into training programs. Green Beauty Curriculum focuses on natural, organic, and atrocity-free products, tutoring scholars about ethical beauty choices. Sustainable Salon Practices emphasize waste reduction, water conservation, and energy-effective tools. Eco-Friendly Product Development courses educate scholars on formulating non-toxic cosmetics. Brand partnerships with sustainable beauty companies give hands- on experience and career openings. As consumers demand environmentally conscious beauty results, schools are adopting their programs to equip unborn professionals with the knowledge and chops to thrive in the green beauty assiduity.

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), enrollment in accredited cosmetology and beauty programs increased by 28% between 2021 and 2024, reflecting a rising demand for certified makeup artists and skincare specialists. The National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts & Sciences (NACCAS) also noted that 54% of beauty schools have expanded their digital and hybrid training formats since 2022.

• The European Federation for Cosmetic Ingredients (EFfCI) reported that 46% of cosmetology institutions in the EU have integrated sustainability modules into their curricula, focusing on biodegradable ingredients and ethical sourcing. Similarly, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that 61% of beauty schools in the U.S. have implemented waste-reduction or eco-formulation programs in 2023.

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COSMETOLOGY & BEAUTY SCHOOLS MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on Type, the global market can be categorized into Cosmetology Schools and Beauty Schools

• Cosmetology Schools: Cosmetology schools give training in hairstyling, skincare, makeup, and nail care, preparing scholars for careers in the beauty assiduity. These schools offer hands- on experience, instrument programs, and business chops, helping graduates secure jobs in salons, gyms, or start their own businesses.
   
• Beauty Schools: Beauty schools offer technical training in hair, makeup, skincare, and nail care, equipping scholars with specialized chops and assiduity knowledge. They give hands- on experience, instrument programs, and business training, preparing graduates for careers in salons, gyms, or independent beauty gambles.

By Application

Based on Application, the global market can be categorized into Men and Women

• Men:  The cosmetology and beauty schools request for men is expanding, with growing demand for barbering, skincare, and fixing services. Specialized courses in men's hairstyling, beard care, and skincare cater to evolving trends, creating career openings in salons, barbershops, and luxury fixing brands.

• Women: The cosmetology and beauty school market for women offers training in hairstyling, skincare, makeup, and nail artistry. With increasing demand for beauty services, women pursue careers in salons, spas, and entrepreneurship, specializing in bridal makeup, esthetics, and cosmetic product development.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities and challenges stating the market conditions.        

Driving Factors

Growing Demand for Skilled Beauty Professionals to Aid Market Growth

A factor in the cosmetology & beauty schools market growth is the growing demand for skilled beauty professionals. The rising global beauty assiduity is driving the need for well- trained hairstylists, estheticians, and haircutters. Demand for expert services fuels Increasing Consumer awareness about skincare, makeup, and hair-care. Expanding Career openings in salons, gyms, beauty conventions, and freelance businesses attract scholars to beauty schools. Assiduity instruments and Licensing conditions insure professional credibility, making formal education essential. Technological Advancements in beauty tools and ways bear nonstop learning, prompting schools to modernize classes. As beauty trends evolve, professed professionals remain in high demand, leading to market growth and the expansion of cosmetology and beauty education institutions worldwide.

• As per the U.S. Department of Labor, the cosmetology and personal care sector employed over 750,000 licensed professionals in 2023, up 19% from pre-pandemic levels, encouraging more enrollments in certified beauty schools.

• According to India’s National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), over 82,000 trainees completed cosmetology certification courses under the Skill India Mission in 2023, contributing to a 35% rise in vocational beauty education across South Asia.

Influence of Social Media and Beauty Trends to Drive Market Growth

The influence of social media and beauty trends are another key aspect of the cosmetology & beauty schools market. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube play a major part in shaping beauty education trends. Rise of Beauty Influencers creates aspirational careers, encouraging further scholars to enroll in beauty schools. Viral Beauty Trends drive demand for technical training in makeup art, skincare, and hairstyling ways. Online literacy and Digital Marketing are now essential chops, helping scholars make particular brands. Celebrity- Endorsed Beauty ways increase interest in advanced courses. As digital beauty culture expands, cosmetology schools integrate social media strategies into their programs, preparing scholars for modern beauty careers in both physical and digital spaces.

Restraining Factor

High Cost of Education and Licensing to Restrain Market Progress

The high costs of education and licensing poses a significant restraining factor for the growth of the cosmetology & beauty schools market. The cost of cosmetology and beauty schools education is a major hedge for numerous pushing professionals. Precious Education freights make it delicate for scholars to go quality training, especially in accredited institutions. Cost of Licensing and instrument adds to the fiscal burden, as scholars must meet state or country-specific conditions. Limited Access to Financial Aid further restricts registration, particularly for low- income individualities. High Investment in Tools and Products increases overall charges, as scholars must buy materials for hands- on training. These financial challenges can discourage implicit scholars, decelerating market growth and limiting availability to cosmetology education.

• The U.S. Department of Education states that average annual tuition for cosmetology programs reached USD 16,100 in 2023, a 22% increase since 2019, making access difficult for low-income students.

• According to the UNESCO Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) database, only 38% of beauty training institutions in developing countries are accredited, leading to inconsistent quality standards and employability outcomes.

Expansion of Online and Hybrid Learning to Create Opportunity for the Product in the Market

Opportunity

The rise of digital education presents a major opportunity for cosmetology and beauty schools. Growing Demand for Flexible learning allows scholars to balance education with work and particular commitments. Virtual Training and instrument programs give accessible options for scholars worldwide, removing geographical limitations. Integration of AR/ VR Technology enhances hands- on learning through immersive simulations in hairstyling, skincare, and makeup operation. Global Reach and Market Expansion enable beauty schools to attract transnational scholars through online courses. As technology advances, digital education in cosmetology continues to grow, making professional beauty training more inclusive and extensively available.

• The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association (CTPA) reported a 44% increase in male grooming product training courses globally between 2021 and 2024, signaling a major expansion avenue for beauty schools to diversify their programs.

• According to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), 52% of vocational institutes offering cosmetology now use AI-powered simulators for haircutting and skin analysis training, improving certification completion rates by 26%.

Maintaining Industry-Relevant Curriculum Could Be a Potential Challenge for Consumers

Challenge

Keeping cosmetology and beauty school programs updated with evolving trends and technologies is a major challenge. Rapidly Changing Beauty Trends require frequent curriculum updates to stay relevant. Advancements in Beauty Technology such as AI-driven skincare analysis and non-invasive treatments demand specialized training. Regulatory and Licensing Changes vary by region, making compliance complex for schools. Balancing Theory and Practical Training is essential but difficult, especially with the rise of online learning. Without continuous adaptation, schools risk producing graduates with outdated skills, affecting employability and overall industry standards in the fast-paced beauty sector.

• The National Cosmetology Association (NCA) reported that 29% of beauty schools in North America faced instructor shortages in 2023, delaying program completions and increasing student–teacher ratios by an average of 35%.

• The World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted that 67% of beauty institutions globally underwent policy updates in 2023 to align with stricter sanitation and hygiene protocols, requiring continuous retraining of faculty and staff.

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COSMETOLOGY & BEAUTY SCHOOLS MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS
 

• North America 

The cosmetology and beauty schools market in North America, including the U.S., is expanding due to growing demand for beauty professionals, evolving assiduity trends, and adding consumer interest in self- care. Schools are introducing technical courses in skincare, makeup, barbering, and beauty technology, incorporating heartiness and sustainability. Online and hybrid learning options are making education more accessible. Government regulations and fiscal aid programs support scholars entering the field. Also, influencer- driven beauty trends and multilateral beauty requirements are shaping classes. Ballot expansions and partnerships with major beauty brands are also fueling growth, creating further openings for aspiring beauty professionals.

• Europe

The region dominates the cosmetology & beauty schools market share. In 2022, the market size in Europe was estimated to be USD 68.04 billion. Given the increased consumer expenditure on beauty goods & services over the protuberance period, Europe will presumably continue to lead the worldwide market. The Global Wellness Institute Organisation (GWI) estimates that in 2020, Europeans spent USD 273.6 billion on particular care goods and services. Salons in Europe are characterised by their cornucopia of immature hairdressers and haircutters who give innovative services. The European Union (EU), a political and profitable union in Europe, reports that in 2019, there were 1.7 million hired haircutters and hairdressers under the age of 15.

• Asia

The cosmetology and beauty schools market in Asia is expanding rapidly, driven by rising disposable inflows, beauty knowledge, and social media influence. Countries like China, India, South Korea, and Japan are seeing increased demand for professional beauty training. Schools are incorporating K- beauty, J- beauty, and Ayurvedic ways to feed to original preferences. Government support, assiduity collaborations, and transnational instruments are boosting credibility. Online literacy and beauty tech inventions are farther fueling growth. As Asian beauty trends gain global recognition, further scholars seek technical training, leading to new schools, franchising openings, and a thriving market for professed beauty professionals across the region.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Industry Players Shaping the Market through Innovation and Market Expansion

Key enterprise players are shaping the cosmetology & beauty schools marketplace through strategic innovation and marketplace growth. These agencies are introducing superior milling strategies to beautify the fine and nutritional profile. They are also increasing their product traces to include specialized versions like organic and vertical farming, catering to various purchaser preferences. Additionally, they may be leveraging virtual systems for greater market reach and distribution performance. By making an investment in research and improvement, improving delivery chain managements, and exploring new regional markets, those players are riding a boom and setting traits within the cosmetology & beauty schools enterprise.

• AOFM (Academy of Freelance Makeup): According to the British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology (BABTAC), AOFM trained over 4,500 freelance makeup artists in 2023, with 72% securing international assignments within six months of graduation.

• Beautiful People Beauty Academy: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) reported that Beautiful People Beauty Academy certified more than 3,800 students in 2023, with a 94% placement rate in salons, spas, and independent beauty ventures.

List of Top Cosmetology & Beauty Schools Companies

• AOFM (Academy of Freelance Makeup) (U.K.)
• Beautiful People Beauty Academy (India)
• Hollywood Institute Of Beauty (U.S.)
• Paul Mitchell Advanced Education (U.S.)
• Aveda (U.S.)
• Northwest College School of Beauty (U.S.)
• Pivot Point Academy (U.S.)
• Empire Education Group (Pennsylvania)
• Dlmonita (India)
• The Ogle School (U.S.)
• SBS Academy Beauty School (India)
• Evergreen Beauty and Barber College (U.S.)
• Vidal Sassoon (U.S.)
• MBC Academy Beauty Academy (South Korea)
• Boca Beauty Academy (U.S.)
• Tricoci University (U.S.)
• Xenon International Academy (U.S.)
• Continental School of Beauty Culture (U.S.)
• Neecee's Barber College (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

June 2024: Evergreen Beauty College’s Olympia campus partnered with The Youth Connection in Shelton to provide beauty education opportunities for young individuals. This collaboration offers hands-on training in hairstyling, skincare, and cosmetology. Students gain industry skills while serving the local community. The partnership enhances career prospects for aspiring beauty professionals. It also promotes mentorship and practical learning experiences.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The research report delves into market segmentation, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative research methods to provide a thorough analysis. It also evaluates the impact of financial and strategic perspectives on the market. Furthermore, the report presents national and regional assessments, considering the dominant forces of supply and demand that influence market growth. The competitive landscape is meticulously detailed, including market shares of significant competitors. The report incorporates novel research methodologies and player strategies tailored for the anticipated timeframe. Overall, it offers valuable and comprehensive insights into the market dynamics in a formal and easily understandable manner.