5 Beauty Trends You’ll Master in Cosmetology School

The beauty industry is always evolving—and so is what you’ll learn in cosmetology school. From bold hair color transformations to intricate skincare routines, today’s beauty professionals need to be more creative, knowledgeable, and trend-savvy than ever. At DuVall’s School of Cosmetology, students receive real-world training that doesn’t just cover the basics—it prepares them to lead in a competitive and constantly changing field.

Whether you’re passionate about cutting-edge hair color techniques, mastering flawless makeup application, or helping clients achieve glowing skin, DuVall’s Cosmetology Program is designed to set you up for success. In this blog, we’re diving into five top beauty trends you’ll explore during your training at DuVall’s—and how they can give you an edge in your future career.

1. Lived-In Hair Color Techniques

What Is It?

Think soft balayage, rooted blondes, sun-kissed brunettes, and melted ombré—these are all forms of lived-in hair color. This trend embraces a more natural, low-maintenance look that allows for regrowth without harsh lines or frequent touch-ups.

Why It Matters in the Industry

Today’s clients want gorgeous color that doesn’t require constant salon visits. Learning to create dimensional, blended tones with techniques like foilayage, teasylights, and shadow roots helps you deliver long-lasting results that align with modern preferences.

What You’ll Learn at DuVall’s

At DuVall’s, you’ll practice advanced color application techniques that are highly requested in salons today. Your training includes:

• Sectioning and color placement for natural effects
• Layering and blending techniques
• Understanding color theory for dimensional results
• Working with various tools (foils, balayage boards, brushes)

You’ll also work with Redken products, giving you the opportunity to get hands-on experience with professional-grade formulas that colorists trust.

2. Flawless Skin-First Makeup

What Is It?

Skin-focused makeup is all about creating a radiant base. The trend leans into glowing skin, minimal contouring, and soft, natural finishes. It’s less about heavy coverage and more about enhancing your client’s features and complexion.

Why It’s Trending

Thanks to social media, clients are becoming more informed—and more specific—about what they want. Terms like “glass skin,” “dewy finish,” and “clean girl makeup” have become everyday language. Knowing how to prep the skin and create a customized look is a must-have skill in today’s beauty world.

What You’ll Learn at DuVall’s

Makeup education at DuVall’s focuses not only on traditional makeup application but also on:

• Prepping the skin for makeup using proper skincare
• Matching foundation to different undertones and skin types
• Highlighting natural features without over-contouring
• Creating on-trend looks like soft glam, editorial, and bridal makeup

With a curriculum that emphasizes client consultations, you’ll be able to recommend personalized routines and apply makeup that enhances natural beauty—skills that make you stand out whether you work in a salon, freelance, or work in bridal or media makeup.

3. Nail Enhancements and Modern Manicures

What Is It?

Nails have become a full-blown art form. From minimalist gel polish to intricate hand-painted nail art, today’s clients expect more than just a basic manicure. Acrylics, dip powders, builder gels, and structured manicures are all part of the modern nail landscape.

Why It’s Trending

Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have elevated nail trends to mainstream beauty culture. Unique shapes, seasonal themes, and self-expression through nail design are more popular than ever. Whether clients want clean and professional or bold and expressive, skilled nail services are always in demand.

What You’ll Learn at DuVall’s

At DuVall’s, students may receive foundational nail training as part of their overall cosmetology education. Depending on your elective choices or state requirements, you may explore:

• Nail anatomy and sanitation practices
• Proper prep and filing techniques
• Gel polish applications for durability and shine
• Intro to acrylic or dip powder systems
• Nail art basics like marbling, striping, and ombré

Even if you choose to focus primarily on hair or skincare, having versatile nail knowledge helps you become a more well-rounded beauty professional—and gives you additional service opportunities once you’re licensed.

4. Chemical Texturing Techniques

What Is It?

Chemical texturing refers to salon services that permanently alter the structure of the hair—like perms, relaxers, and smoothing treatments. Whether a client wants more volume, tighter curls, or sleek, frizz-free hair, chemical texturizing allows for long-term style changes that can transform their look.

Why It’s Still In Demand

While styles have evolved, chemical services are far from outdated. From modern beach-wave perms to keratin smoothing systems and gentler relaxer formulations, clients are seeking long-lasting results that support their desired texture and styling ease. Knowing how to properly apply and maintain these treatments is essential for any well-rounded cosmetologist.

What You’ll Learn at DuVall’s

DuVall’s School of Cosmetology provides hands-on education in a variety of chemical services, preparing you to safely and confidently deliver professional results. You’ll learn:

• The science of hair structure and how chemical processes affect it
• How to apply perms for body and curl
• Techniques for hair relaxing and straightening
• Proper timing, application, and rinsing protocols
• How to assess client hair health and recommend safe services

These services not only add to your technical expertise, but they also boost your value as a stylist. Clients trust professionals who understand how to reshape hair without compromising its integrity.

5. Advanced Finishing and Blowout Techniques

What Is It?

While coloring and cutting get lots of attention, clients never forget the finishing touch. From glossy blowouts to soft waves or sleek straight looks, finishing services are where stylists truly showcase their skill and elevate the client experience.

Why It Can Elevate Your Career

A professional finish can turn a simple haircut into a luxury service. Clients come back for that feeling of leaving the salon camera-ready. Mastering blowouts, styling with hot tools, and product layering helps you build a loyal client base and increase service prices.

What You’ll Learn at DuVall’s

Your time at DuVall’s will include focused training on:

• Blowout techniques for different lengths and textures
• Working with round brushes and dryers for volume or smoothness
• Curling, waving, and flat ironing methods
• Layering styling products for hold, shine, or texture
• How to create editorial, wedding, or event-ready styles

You’ll practice with *real clients in DuVall’s student salon, which gives you the hands-on experience needed to transition seamlessly into a working salon or launch your own brand as a styling expert.

Bonus: Business and Branding Skills to Stay On Trend

Learning beauty trends is just one part of becoming a successful stylist. At DuVall’s, students also receive training in client communication, personal branding, social media, and business skills. Why? Because to master trends, you also need to market yourself effectively.

Here’s how DuVall’s helps you build a professional edge:

• Crafting a standout beauty portfolio
• Managing appointments and schedules
• Using Instagram and TikTok to showcase your work
• Communicating effectively with clients about services and goals
• Staying on top of emerging trends through ongoing education

By combining technical training with business-building education, DuVall’s can prepare students to thrive in the salon world—or start something of their own.

Start Your Journey at DuVall’s School of Cosmetology

Trends come and go, but great education lasts forever. At DuVall’s School of Cosmetology, you can gain the confidence, skills, and experience you need to take on the beauty world—on trend, on time, and on point.

From perfecting the most in-demand hair color techniques to embracing eco-conscious practices and building real-world client relationships, your training can go beyond the basics. You’ll leave school prepared to deliver what today’s clients are asking for—and lead the way into what’s next.

Ready to Master the Trends?

If you’re passionate about beauty, love learning new techniques, and want a career that blends creativity and connection, cosmetology might be the perfect path. At DuVall’s, you won’t just learn—you’ll lead.

Contact us today to schedule a tour, speak with an admissions advisor, or learn more about how to apply.

*All services provided by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.