Interested In Becoming A Mortuary Stylist?

March 5, 2012 - PRLog -- If you have ever attended a funeral at some point in your life, you may have seen a deceased relative or friend well put together in their favorite suit or dress. Their make-up and hair is also flawless. It's as though they are still living. It is important to note that special arrangements must be made with the family members   in order to create this appearance and preparation is very detailed oriented. The people behind the scene are the Stylist, Mortician or Funeral Director.

Becoming a Mortuary Stylist is not for the faint-hearted. It takes a unique individual to work in this field. You must be able to be compassionate with family members as well as detach from your emotions in order to perform the cosmetology services on the deceased.  Some of the services include: make-up application, shampooing, styling, coloring and cutting hair. It is very important that the Stylist is  mentally and emotionally fit to do this job. There is also a thorough  criminal background check that must be conducted.  Another requirement, is being licensed in the state where cosmetology is being practiced. Followed by taking mortuary science course work at a local community college.

There is a great deal of chemistry involved when performing services on the deceased. And.. you must be very familiar with the chemical composition of the skin and hair when applying make-up and/or styling products to the deceased. For example, non-thermogenic make-up is  specially formulated for deceased skin since the chemicals in this particular make-up react well  to  the cold temperature in the skin. Simply put, there is no blood flow. Make-up for the deceased tends to be more heavier and wax based. The ideal is to cover any signs of trauma to the body, incisions or bruises. Whereas, thermogenic make-up is what is normally used on live individuals since blood is circulating throughout  the body.

As far as hair products used on the deceased, very little heat (if any is used at all) is applied to the hair in order to avoid burning  the skin. Also, a minimal amount of styling products are utilized.The main part of the hair that is styled is the front since the back  of the head is not seen. So? what do you think so far? Is this the career for you?

If so, here are some  more tips to consider as you ponder on your decision to become a Mortuary Stylist. Be aware that on occasion there may be sudden body movement or escaping air that you may witness from the deceased. This is completely normal. Although, it can be frightening to those who have never experienced this before.  Your time spent will be alone with the deceased as you perform the service. If you are comfortable with this then you will succeed in this field.  If you are serious about pursuing a career as a Mortuary Stylist, a good way to promote yourself is to inform your current clients at the salon. Let them know that you provide these additional specialty services. This is a good way to get a referral from a client or family member who trusts your work.

Promote yourself to various local funeral homes. Ask to speak with the Funeral Director and set up a time to meet. Be persistent and don't give up.

Note: every funeral home operates differently. Some funeral homes will only use in-house personnel such as the Mortician or Funeral Director since they went to school to learn how to care for the deceased. Nevertheless, bring your portfolio and resume. Do be prepared to discuss the years of experience you have as  a stylist.

A strong foundation as a Stylist or Make-up Artist is essential prior  to becoming a Mortuary Stylist. Success is yours!

Good Luck!

Resources To Consider:

http://www.funeralhomes.com

http://www.mortuaryschools.com

http://www.ifthesescissorscouldtalk.com