Estheticians focus on skin care, makeup, and hair removal. To become one, choose between cosmetology or medical esthetics. Each state has its own licensing requirements, and it’s important to research schools and areas of expertise before committing to a program. Accreditation is also important to consider.
Estheticians are licensed beauty professionals who focus on skin care, makeup, and hair removal. To become a beautician, you first need to decide which direction to go. Some estheticians work strictly on the cosmetology side, along with hairdressers, manicurists, and others who attend cosmetology school. These estheticians work in salons and spas. Another option for those who want to become a beautician is to explore the medical side of the profession and work in doctors’ offices, hospitals and surgery centers.
For those interested in the cosmetology route, the first step is to determine state regulations and requirements. Each state determines its own licensing requirements, so it’s best to attend a school in the state where you plan to work. States require an average of 300 hours of training to become an esthetician licensed to perform routine procedures in a salon or spa. Once initial training is completed, candidates must take a state licensing exam.
Medical estheticians are required to obtain advanced training. These estheticians work for dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and hospitals that require additional certifications in various advanced training programs. Medical estheticians take courses in anatomy, physiology, chemistry, bacteriology, disinfection, first aid, and hygiene. When training is completed, a paramedical esthetician license exam must also be passed.
When selecting a school, it’s helpful to call salons and spas and ask about the schools owners prefer to hire their estheticians from. Most schools will, at a minimum, cover the topics needed to obtain a state license, but each school will have its own philosophy and specializations. Some may focus on European beauty practices, others on common facials, and still others will take specialist classes that introduce new techniques. It’s best to visit a school and talk to instructors and students to determine the best fit.
Some areas of expertise to consider are: laser hair removal, waxing, skin analysis, deep cleansing treatments, masks and peels, and facial massage. Anyone who wants to become an esthetician should explore the different areas early on, before committing to a training program. It’s always a good idea to try procedures at different spas to get a feel for the different treatments.
School accreditation is also something to consider. Schools with specific accreditation may offer financial aid to students who wish to become estheticians. The largest accrediting agency in the field of aesthetics is the National Accrediting Commission for Cosmetology, Arts, and Sciences (NACCAS).
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