What Is Continuing Education for Cosmetologists?

Your education doesn’t stop once you’ve received your license. Continuing education for cosmetologists is an essential part of maintaining your skills, staying up-to-date with industry trends and giving yourself the best opportunities for career growth. Plus, it’s required by the state. 

But what exactly is cosmetology continuing education in Nebraska? What’s required to keep practicing here? And what classes count toward renewing your license? Here’s a refresher.  

What Is Cosmetology Continuing Education?

Cosmetology continuing education refers to additional courses, workshops or certifications that professionals in the beauty industry pursue after completing their formal education and obtaining their license. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from advanced hairstyling techniques to business management, safety protocols and more. 

Cosmetology is an ever-evolving field. New beauty trends, products and technologies are constantly being invented and improved, so continuing education helps cosmetologists remain competitive and knowledgeable. And if that isn’t enough, it’s required to renew your license. 

What Counts as Continuing Education for Cosmetologists?

The beauty industry is dynamic. To stay ahead, you have to keep learning! And there are a ton of options to pick from; it isn’t a one-size-fits-all curriculum.  

In Nebraska, the Board no longer reviews and approves continuing education programs. To renew, you just need to complete at least eight hours of continuing education, with four of them about how to perform the skills and services of your specific profession. 

As a cosmetologist, you’ll need to have those eight hours completed by 12/31 of even years — so you’re good for 2025 but be ready by the end of 2026!  

What Kind of Continuing Education Classes to Take

High-Impact Skills to Boost Your Career 

Taking advanced courses or specialized certifications opens doors for career advancement. Where do your strengths lie? Can you specialize in the cutting-edge skills in that field — not just hair, but hand-tied extensions? Not just lashes, but the high-end techniques in demand? Choose continuing cosmetology ed that helps you improve your skills and expand your expertise — and your portfolio.  

Staying Updated on Industry Trends 

Every year, new trends and techniques pop up in the beauty world. From advanced hair coloring methods like the latest spins on balayage to innovative skincare treatments like LED light therapy, staying updated lets you offer the most current services to your clients.  

Continuing cosmetology education helps you master these trends and keep your skill set fresh, so you not only know what your coolest clients are asking for, you know how to deliver the results they want.  

Health, Safety and Sanitation 

Every cosmetologist must adhere to health and safety regulations. There’s a reason it’s part of every beauty school education! Many states require state-approved cosmetology continuing education courses in sanitation, infection control and safety protocols to ensure clients are always protected. Nebraska doesn’t require them as part of renewing your license, but they do count if you’re interested. 

Business Skills for Entrepreneurs 

If you’re running your own beauty business or looking to do so in the future, continuing education can also include classes on business management, marketing and client relations. Understanding how to manage your finances, build your brand and promote your services is key to long-term success on your own timeline. 

How to Find Continuing Education for Cosmetologists

So, where can you find continuing ed classes for cosmetology? 

• Beauty Schools: Many cosmetology schools offer short-term classes and workshops specifically designed for licensed professionals. These programs often provide hands-on experiences and certification upon completion. 
• Online Courses: If you have a busy schedule, online courses and webinars can offer flexibility while still allowing you to learn new techniques or refresh your knowledge. 
• Industry Associations: Joining professional groups or organizations often gives you access to exclusive courses, training programs and even discounted rates for events.
• Conferences and Trade Shows: Attending beauty industry events like trade shows or conferences allows you to learn from top professionals and network with peers, all while exploring new products and services. 

How to Get the Most Out of Continuing Education Courses

It’s easy to write continuing ed requirements off as something you just have to get out of the way. But they shouldn’t feel like a waste of your time. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your continuing ed classes: 

• Set Career Goals: Consider your strengths and weaknesses, then choose courses that align with your long-term career objectives. 
• Network with Peers: Networking with instructors and fellow students can help you stay motivated and learn from others’ experiences. 
• Earn Certifications: Certification can add credibility to your resume, so it’s always a bonus to complete courses that offer certification upon successful completion. 
• Stay Consistent: Make continuing education a regular part of your professional development. Even after reaching a certain level of expertise, the beauty industry evolves constantly, and staying current is key. Try not to leave them all until the last second! 

In beauty, continuing education isn’t just a requirement. It’s an opportunity to grow, learn and excel. And there’s a wealth of resources out there to help you reach those goals! 

Got more questions about what options you have? Get in touch! Connect with our team at Xenon Academy today to get a little more info about the best ways to stay at the top of your game.