Cosmetology students attend beauty show and conference

  • A group of women walking side by side.
  • A person combing a girl's hair.
  • A neon sign above a cherry blossom tree and makeup.
  • Various beauty supplies.
  • A person receiving a facial.
  • Acrylic nails with designs on display.
  • Hair cutting scissors on display.
  • Several sets of hair trimmers.
  • Display of face masks.
  • Different salon equipment.
  • People walking at a convention.

Students explore new trends in beauty, esthetics and cosmetics

Cosmetology students from the Southern Westchester BOCES Valhalla campus attended the International Beauty Show (IBS) and International Esthetics, Cosmetics & Spa Conference (IECSC) at the Jacob Javits Center in early March.

The IBS and IECSC are the industry's most prestigious events, where professionals can take educational classes, discover and buy products. A total of 52 students from the program were able to view countless demonstrations and meet with exhibitors as they gained insights into current trends in their field.

“We broke off into groups. There were different rooms with tables and big displays that had different products and visuals. There were people doing demonstrations with customers in real time and having the services provided to them,” said Sydney Wang, a junior at Harrison High School. 

Some of the students were able to receive product demonstrations, such as facial masks and hair care products. They were also able to see products being used on individuals, ask questions, and purchase items at special show prices. 

“They were using some of the equipment I have at home and taught us how to use them,” said Ashley Aguilar, a junior at New Rochelle High School. “I think it was nice how there were so many people around doing different demonstrations.”

The students spent a couple of hours at the expo and conference but were able to learn so much about the industry. “It's not something that I would see in the classroom,” said Ashley. “It was a good experience, and I enjoyed it.”