The word cosmetology came from the Greek word "kosmetikos" which means a person skilled in adornment, and "logia" which is the study and application of beauty enhancements and treatments. Some branches of cosmetology are hairstyling, cosmetics, manicures/pedicure, skin care and electrology. Cosmetology Services Hair stylists - hair stylists specializes in hair styling as well as in cutting and chemical services like texturizers, colors, perms, relaxers and restoration treatments. Shampoo technicians - these people are the ones who shampoo and condition a client's hair in preparation for hair styling. They assist in rinsing permanent waves, shampooing of color and chemical treatments out of clients hair after the process. Shampoo technicians are usually hired only by corporate and concept saloons as well as beauty salons having a lot of clients being serviced at the same time. In some places, shampoo techs need a cosmetology permit. This position is very temporary and is usually given to newly licensed employee having little or no experience at all. Manicurists - are those who care for the fingernails and the hands. Manicure came from the Latin words "manus" for hand and "cura" for care. In most areas, manicurists follow instructions and are licensed. And because manicure requires manipulation of the skin, there is a big risk of spreading infection when the tools are used on different people this is why sanitation is a big concern. Beauty therapists - are people specializing in all treatments such as hair removal, body wraps, skin care, hair removal, and make up with machine treatments like non-surgical facelifts or faradic muscle tone. Beauty therapists may also get some special training to give special treatments such as hair laser removal and electrolysis. Nail technicians- are the ones specializing in the art and care of nails. They do manicures and pedicures, gel nails, acrylic nails, fake nails, and nail wraps. These people are knowledgeable in nail irregularities and are able to identify problems and other diseases. Nail Techs many refer clients to physician for treatment of nail problems. Electrologists - are those who provide the services using an electrolysis machine. Compared to hair removal through waxing, hair removal using electrolysis is permanent. Cosmetologist Courses In the US, general courses for cosmetology are particularly centered on hairstyling. However, they also train their students to be general beauticians who are knowledgeable in facials, manicures and others. A certificate course for general cosmetology usually takes about a year to complete from state licensed schools. Some courses such as specialized, non-hairstyling like manicure, make up art and facials takes only a short time usually lasting from 2 weeks to 6 months. Some prestigious and exclusive schools offer longer courses. People interested in cosmetology may take a graduate course in general cosmetology and get a license from any of the cosmetology sub-disciplines. They may also study to become a cosmetician or manicurist. They may choose a private beauty institute or simply enroll in a vocational school offering courses in cosmetology to high school students. Furthermore, there are also a lot of national organizations providing educational and professional information in cosmetology.