Illinois cosmetology programs teach both practical salon skills and the underlying knowledge needed to work safely and professionally and pass the state licensing exam. Common skills and topics covered include:

Practical hair skills

• Hair cutting and texturizing (women’s and men’s basic cuts, layering, thinning)
• Hair styling (blowouts, updos, thermal styling, braiding)
• Chemical services (permanent waving, relaxing, chemical straightening)
• Hair coloring and lightening (application techniques, color formulation, corrective color)
• Hair and scalp treatments

Skin and makeup

• Basic facial skin care and skin analysis
• Makeup application (day, evening, corrective, and special-occasion makeup)
• Hair removal methods commonly taught in cosmetology (e.g., waxing), depending on program scope

Nails (often included or offered as a specialty)

• Manicure and pedicure techniques
• Nail shaping, cuticle care, basic nail enhancements (depending on program)

Health, safety, and sanitation

• Sanitation, sterilization, and infection control procedures
• Universal precautions and blood‑borne pathogen awareness
• Safe handling and disposal of chemicals and implements
• Salon safety and ergonomics

Theory and professional knowledge

• Hair, skin, and nail anatomy and physiology basics
• Chemistry relevant to cosmetology products and processes
• Product ingredients, selection, and contraindications
• Client consultation and communication skills
• Professional ethics, client confidentiality, and customer service
• Business skills: retailing, upselling, appointment management, basic bookkeeping, and marketing
• State laws, rules, and licensing requirements (preparation for the Illinois cosmetology licensing exam)

Practical exam preparation

• Clinic/salon floor experience with real or mannequin clients
• Mock practical and written exam practice to prepare for the state board

Many programs also include job‑readiness content (resume building, interview practice) and continuing education options. Program length, exact course content, and whether nails or esthetics are included vary by school, so check specific Illinois schools or the Illinois licensing board for program requirements if you need details.