Founded in 1924, AACS's goal is to represent everyone involved in cosmetology education, including students, teachers and suppliers. The association wanted to create a centralized knowledge bank where the latest trends could be disseminated easily to members. Also, the association continues to fill a need by representing cosmetology schools before Congress and the Department of Education. AACS held its first annual convention in 1957.
The AACS's main goal is to educate its members about the latest beauty trends as well as changes in laws and regulations that affect the cosmetology industry. It recognizes and works to eliminate problems in the industry by working at the state and federal levels as well as with individual schools. Also, AACS promotes the beauty industry to prospective students and markets member schools on its website.
The AACS offers courses for cosmetology school staff throughout the year online and during conventions and conferences. Topics include school management, new financial aid avenues, strategic planning, legal issues and beauty tips and trends. It also offers marketing through its website to help pair local students with member schools. The AACS negotiates with relevant vendors to help members get the best prices on supplies. AACS offers various other programs for members included discounted credit-card processing fees, English as a Second Language courses and discounts on travel and liability insurance.
The association prepares online training courses for students who are unable to attend beauty school full time. It also offers grants and scholarships through a competitive application process. Students have access to some member benefits, such as a prescription discount card and lower prices for license preparation.