Certification with a focus on both the physical and mental wellness of students and clients in cosmetology, esthetology, manicuring, or teacher training is available at the internationally-recognized Jean Madeline Aveda Institute. The institute has two locations in its hometown of Philadelphia, with a third slated to open at the University of Pennsylvania campus in August 2006. Along with hands-on experience, training in marketing, managing, and reception are part of the cosmetology, nail technology and teaching curriculum at Empire Beauty Schools. An accredited cosmetology program covering hairstyling, cutting, coloring, skin care, manicuring and advanced courses is available at Levittown Beauty Academy in the Philadelphia suburb of Levittown.

As of 2002, there were 16,150 people employed in cosmetology related fields in Philadelphia, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry. The number of people employed in the profession is expected to grow 11.6% by 2012.