Top 40 Beauty Schools In Los Angeles (2026)

Los Angeles is a global epicenter of the beauty industry, offering an unparalleled range of cosmetology education options for aspiring professionals. From celebrity-level makeup training and advanced aesthetician programs to barbering, nail technology, and comprehensive cosmetology curriculums, the city’s beauty schools cater to diverse career paths and learning styles. This guide highlights forty of the best beauty schools in Los Angeles, based on program offerings, reputation, and accreditation.

Top 40 Beauty Schools in Los Angeles

1. Palace Beauty College

Palace Beauty College is a well-established institution located at 1517 S Western Ave in Los Angeles, founded in 2002. The college offers five comprehensive programs including Cosmetology, Nail Technology, Esthetician, Teacher Training, and Cosmetics Makeup, Fashion and Style.

The curriculum covers a wide range of technical skills from shampooing, cutting, coloring, and hair extensions to manicuring, disinfection, bacteriology, facial hair removal, and makeup application. The school has been described as a professional institution where students receive quality education from dedicated teachers and staff.

2. Los Angeles College of Aesthetics

Los Angeles College of Aesthetics is a higher education institution located in Los Angeles County that offers specialized training in beauty and grooming. In a recent year, the college awarded 107 degrees, with 19 degrees in General Cosmetology and 7 degrees in Barbering.

The student body is predominantly female, with 92.5% of degrees awarded to women, and the most common race/ethnicity group being Hispanic or Latino recipients. The college also offers a program in Aesthetician/Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist, with tuition of $9,075 and a program length of 600 clock hours.

3. KC Beauty Academy

KC Beauty Academy is a trade school located in Los Angeles that offers six vocational programs in the beauty and grooming fields. The largest program is Aesthetician/Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist, with tuition of $10,000 and a program length of 600 hours, typically completed in 5 months.

The cosmetology program costs $11,500 for 1,000 hours, completed in approximately 7 months, which is notably lower than the national average tuition of $16,042. The academy also offers barbering and nail technician programs. In a recent year, the academy had 42 completers in the esthetician program.

4. ZMS The Academy

ZMS The Academy is a private vocational school in Los Angeles offering training programs in barbering, cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and permanent makeup. The school serves as both a barber shop and cosmetology school, providing a practical, skills-focused training environment where students can refine their craft in real-world settings.

Tuition for the largest programs includes Barbering at $8,395 for 1,000 hours, Aesthetician at $9,395 for 600 hours, and Cosmetology at $12,395 for 1,600 hours. The school is accredited and participates in federal financial aid for eligible students.

5. Borner’s Barber College

Borner’s Barber College is a higher education institution located in Los Angeles County that specializes in barbering training. In a recent year, the most popular certificate concentration was Barbering with 24 degrees awarded.

The 2024 tuition and fees for the program is $13,500 with books and supplies costing $1,550, and the average completion time is 13 months for the 1,500-hour program. The student population was 41 in a recent academic year, with a graduation rate of 80% and a student-to-faculty ratio of 15 to 1. The most common race/ethnicity group of degree recipients was Black or African American.

6. International College of Beauty Arts and Sciences

International College of Beauty Arts and Sciences is a trade school located in Los Angeles offering programs in cosmetology, barbering, esthetician, and manicuring in a hybrid format. The college offers 50% online and 50% hands-on learning, with a centrally located campus in Glendale, Burbank, San Fernando Valley, and Pasadena.

Tuition for the largest program, Aesthetician/Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist, is $11,100 for 600 hours. The school is accredited by NACCAS and authorized by the US Department of Education to offer financial aid, including Federal Pell Grants and student loans.

7. Universal College of Beauty Inc – 43rd Place

Universal College of Beauty has been educating cosmetology students for 84 years throughout Southern California. The college operates multiple locations in Los Angeles, including a campus at 3419 W. 43rd Place in the Crenshaw district.

The college offers a Nail Technician/Specialist and Manicurist program that prepares individuals to shape fingernails and toenails, remove unwanted skin and blemishes, and function as licensed manicurists or nail technicians. The curriculum includes instruction in manicuring theory, skin anatomy, nail growth, sterilization, cuticle removal, nail filing, cream application, and business practices.

8. Professional Schools of Beauty, Fashion and Arts, Inc.

Located at 6951 Reseda Blvd in Reseda, Professional Schools of Beauty, Fashion and Arts offers approved programs in Barbering and Barber Crossover. The school provides training in Barbering 1000 hours, Barbering 1500 hours, and Barber Crossover Course 400 hours. The programs are offered in a hybrid format, with theory instruction available online. The school serves the San Fernando Valley region of Los Angeles County.

9. Los Angeles Makeup School (LAMUS)

Los Angeles Makeup School specializes in teaching makeup techniques and insider secrets for beauty and special effects for film and television. Located at 1624 Wilcox Ave in Los Angeles, LAMUS is a brand new learning institution that focuses on professional makeup artistry training. The school offers specialized instruction in both beauty makeup and special effects makeup, preparing students for careers in the entertainment industry. This school is ideal for those seeking specialized training in makeup artistry.

10. Hollywood Makeup School

Hollywood Makeup School is a well-regarded institution in the Los Angeles area, recommended for beauty professionals looking to enhance their skills. The school offers training in professional makeup application techniques, preparing students for careers in the entertainment and fashion industries. Reviewers have praised the school’s organization and beautiful facility, noting that students learn a lot during their training. The school is located in the heart of Hollywood’s entertainment district.

11. Bosso Makeup School

Bosso Makeup School has received positive reviews from students who are “beyond happy” to have chosen the school for their training. The school offers comprehensive makeup artistry programs designed to prepare students for professional careers. With experienced instructors and a focus on practical skills, Bosso Makeup School is a strong choice for aspiring makeup artists. The school is located in the Los Angeles area.

12. Pretty Woman School

Pretty Woman School offers permanent makeup classes, with students expressing high satisfaction with their training. The school specializes in permanent makeup techniques including microblading, permanent eyeliner, and lip pigmentation. Students have reported gaining the tools, knowledge, and confidence to become successful professionals. The school is located in the Los Angeles area.

13. CJ Makeup School

CJ Makeup School is a well-regarded institution in Los Angeles, recommended for beauty professionals seeking to advance their skills. The school offers professional makeup training programs designed to prepare students for careers in the beauty industry. With experienced instructors and comprehensive curriculum, CJ Makeup School is a strong option for aspiring makeup artists. The school is located in the Los Angeles area.

14. American Beauty College

American Beauty College is a private institution located in West Covina offering cosmetology and barbering programs to students in the Los Angeles area. In a recent year, the college awarded degrees across all programs, with numerous degrees in General Cosmetology and Barbering. The student body is diverse, with a majority of degrees awarded to women and the most common race/ethnicity group being Hispanic or Latino recipients. The school’s focused curriculum and practical training approach prepare students for state licensure.

15. Citrus College Cosmetology Program

Citrus College is a large public two-year college located in Glendora that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs with impressive graduation numbers. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, making it one of the largest producers of beauty professionals in the region. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with both practical training and academic credentials. The program serves the eastern San Gabriel Valley and prepares students for various careers in the beauty industry.

16. Golden West College Cosmetology Program

Golden West College, located in Huntington Beach, is a large public two-year college with a strong cosmetology program that produces numerous graduates annually. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, combining hands-on training with academic coursework. The program serves the Orange County region with a commitment to practical skill development.

17. Fullerton College Cosmetology Program

Fullerton College is a large public two-year college that offers strong cosmetology programs to students in the Orange County area. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers two cosmetology degree programs, combining hands-on training with academic coursework. With a large student body and comprehensive facilities, Fullerton College provides a dynamic learning environment.

18. Cerritos College Cosmetology Program

Located in Norwalk, Cerritos College is a very large public two-year college that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs with a substantial number of graduates. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with both practical training and academic credentials. The program serves a diverse student body and is known for its comprehensive curriculum.

19. Saddleback College Cosmetology Program

Located in Mission Viejo, Saddleback College is a very large public two-year college that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs to students in the Orange County region. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, combining hands-on training with academic coursework. With over 20,000 enrolled students, Saddleback College provides a dynamic learning environment.

20. Compton College Cosmetology Program

Compton College is a medium-sized public two-year college that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs to students in the South Los Angeles area. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with both practical training and academic credentials. The program serves the Compton community and surrounding areas with a focus on accessible, high-quality beauty education.

21. Hacienda La Puente Adult Education

Hacienda La Puente Adult Education in La Puente is a public institution that offers a Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor program. In a recent year, the program graduated many students, making it one of the larger instructor training programs in the region. The institution serves adult learners seeking career training and professional development in the beauty industry. The program prepares students for instructor licensure and teaching careers, and is part of the school’s commitment to workforce development.

22. Diamond Beauty College

Located in South El Monte, Diamond Beauty College is a private for-profit institution that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, all earning certificates. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with a range of training options. The institution serves the eastern Los Angeles area with accessible beauty education and practical skill development.

23. Los Angeles City College Cosmetology Program

Los Angeles City College offers a comprehensive cosmetology program that prepares students for careers in the beauty industry. The college provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, with experienced faculty and modern facilities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees that equip them with practical skills and knowledge. The college serves the East Hollywood area and surrounding communities.

24. East Los Angeles College Cosmetology Program

East Los Angeles College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for state licensure and careers in the beauty industry. The college provides training in hair styling, skincare, and nail technology, with experienced faculty and comprehensive facilities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees. The college serves the Monterey Park area and eastern Los Angeles County.

25. West Los Angeles College Cosmetology Program

West Los Angeles College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for careers in the beauty industry. The college provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, with experienced faculty and modern facilities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees. The college serves the Culver City area and western Los Angeles County.

26. Pierce College Cosmetology Program

Pierce College, located in Woodland Hills, offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for state licensure and careers in the beauty industry. The college provides training in hair styling, skincare, and nail technology, with experienced faculty and comprehensive facilities. The college serves the San Fernando Valley region.

27. Los Angeles Valley College Cosmetology Program

Los Angeles Valley College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for careers in the beauty industry. The college provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, with experienced faculty and modern facilities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees. The college serves the San Fernando Valley region.

28. Mt San Antonio College Cosmetology Program

Mt San Antonio College, located in Walnut, offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for state licensure and careers in the beauty industry. The college provides training in hair styling, skincare, and nail technology, with experienced faculty and comprehensive facilities. The college serves the eastern San Gabriel Valley region.

29. Glendale Community College Cosmetology Program

Glendale Community College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for careers in the beauty industry. The college provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, with experienced faculty and modern facilities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees. The college serves the Glendale area and surrounding communities.

30. Rio Hondo College Cosmetology Program

Rio Hondo College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for state licensure and careers in the beauty industry. The college provides training in hair styling, skincare, and nail technology, with experienced faculty and comprehensive facilities. The college serves the Whittier area and surrounding communities.

31. Long Beach City College Cosmetology Program

Long Beach City College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for careers in the beauty industry. The college provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, with experienced faculty and modern facilities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees. The college serves the Long Beach area.

32. Santa Monica College Cosmetology Program

Santa Monica College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for state licensure and careers in the beauty industry. The college provides training in hair styling, skincare, and nail technology, with experienced faculty and comprehensive facilities. The college serves the Santa Monica area and western Los Angeles County.

33. El Camino College Cosmetology Program

El Camino College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for careers in the beauty industry. The college provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, with experienced faculty and modern facilities. Students can earn certificates and associate degrees. The college serves the Torrance area and South Bay region.

34. Pasadena City College Cosmetology Program

Pasadena City College offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for state licensure and careers in the beauty industry. The college provides training in hair styling, skincare, and nail technology, with experienced faculty and comprehensive facilities. The college serves the Pasadena area and western San Gabriel Valley.

35. Trade Technical College Cosmetology Program

Trade Technical College in South Central Los Angeles offers a cosmetology program that prepares students for careers in the beauty industry. The college provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care, with experienced faculty and modern facilities. The college serves the South Los Angeles area.

36. Elite Permanent Makeup and Cosmetology College

Located in Los Angeles, Elite Permanent Makeup and Cosmetology College offers specialized training in permanent makeup and body contouring.

The college’s programs include Hyalouron Pen and Body Contouring, providing students with advanced skills in emerging beauty techniques. The institution is approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) and operates under state regulations.

37. Redondo Beach Beauty College

Redondo Beach Beauty College is a higher education institution located in Los Angeles County that offers focused cosmetology training. In a recent year, the college awarded many degrees, with numerous degrees in General Cosmetology.

The student body is predominantly female, with a majority of degrees awarded to women, and the most common race/ethnicity group being Asian recipients. The institution serves the South Bay area with a focus on practical skill development.

38. Career Academy of Beauty

Career Academy of Beauty in Garden Grove is a private for-profit institution that offers comprehensive cosmetology training. In a recent year, the academy graduated many cosmetology students, making it a significant producer of beauty professionals in the region.

The institution offers five cosmetology degree programs, providing students with a range of training options. The academy’s focused curriculum and practical training approach prepare students for state licensure.

39. Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy

Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy, located in Santa Fe Springs, offers accelerated cosmetology training designed to get students licensed and earning in a shorter timeframe. The 1,000-hour cosmetology program is completed in just over 8 months full-time.

The academy posted a higher California State Board cosmetology pass rate than a major competitor in a recent year. Tuition is $17,560 total, and the school participates in federal financial aid programs.

40. Los Angeles Trade-Technical College Cosmetology Program

Los Angeles Trade-Technical College offers one of the oldest and most established cosmetology programs in the city, with a comprehensive curriculum covering cosmetology, esthetician, and barbering pathways. The 1,000-hour cosmetology program is delivered over two years and four semesters, with day and evening tracks available.

Day classes run Monday through Thursday from 12:30 PM to 7 PM, while evening classes meet Monday through Friday from 4:30 PM to 9:50 PM. The program is notably affordable, with California resident tuition at $46 per unit, bringing total tuition to roughly $1,400 to $2,500, plus kit and books.

Comparison Table

Tips and Other Useful Information

Program Types: Beauty schools offer various specializations including cosmetology (hair, skin, nails), esthetics (skincare), barbering, nail technology, and makeup artistry. Choose a school that offers the specific program that matches your career goals.

Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by recognized bodies such as NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences) or approved by the California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Accreditation is important for financial aid eligibility and quality assurance.

Licensing Requirements: California requires specific training hours for each license type: 1,000 hours for cosmetology, 600 hours for estheticians, and 400 hours for nail technicians. Make sure your chosen program meets these requirements.

Financial Aid: Many schools participate in federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and student loans. Check with each school about their financial aid offerings and scholarship opportunities.

Location and Facilities: Consider the school’s location, facilities, and equipment quality. Many schools offer student salon services where you can practice on real clients.

Conclusion

Los Angeles offers a diverse array of beauty education options, from private trade schools like Palace Beauty College, KC Beauty Academy, and ZMS The Academy to public community college programs and specialized makeup artistry schools. Whether you are preparing for a career as a cosmetologist, esthetician, barber, nail technician, or makeup artist, the city provides a wealth of opportunities to learn from industry experts in well-equipped facilities. With options ranging from comprehensive 1,000-hour cosmetology programs to specialized permanent makeup training and barbering programs, there is a beauty school in Los Angeles for every career ambition and skill level.