Your career as an esthetician might be the perfect match if your passion is to make others feel comfortable in their skin. Learning how to become an esthetician can be broken down into several steps. The purpose of this post is to examine each of the steps listed below:
a). Types of skin care experts
b). Education requirements
c). Licensing and certification standards
d). Continuing education
e). Profession’s future
A career as an esthetician is gratifying, but it takes some training and commitment to become one. The good news is that this field has tremendous opportunities and a strong need for skincare experts. So, in a nutshell, what exactly is an esthetician? An esthetician is a skincare professional focusing on helping clients/patients improve and care for their skin.
Six Types of Skin Care Experts (Estheticians)
- Facial Specialist – A facial specialist provides facials and other cosmetic procedures for the skin to improve a client’s radiance and skin health. This would involve various cleansing techniques and exfoliations based on the client’s needs and concerns. Machines may assist with deep cleaning, chemical peels, and pore extractions.
- Spa Therapist – A spa seems synonymous with an esthetician. A spa therapist can provide various treatments, including facials, massages, and aromatherapy. A wellness center is a great workplace if you want to use several professional skills.
- Wax Technician – Wax estheticians are always in demand and are among the most popular areas. Clients typically need this service regularly, so you will develop a great relationship with them. Waxing is removing hair from different parts of the body. Eyebrow waxing is a common procedure for both men and women. A wax technician should know other hair removal methods and the proper tools for each area.
- Skincare Technician – Love science? Then this job is for you. This area works to improve chronic skin conditions such as rosacea, acne, wrinkles, dehydration, and signs of aging. A variety of facial procedures will be performed on clients, including dermabrasion.
- Medical Esthetician – This profession works in unison with medical professionals in clinical environments. They may work in spas, plastic surgery, and dermatology, offering laser and light-based medical treatments. For example, they may perform minor cosmetic procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser hair removal.
- Master Esthetician – This type of esthetician requires licensing. Working alongside medical and licensed master estheticians, plastic surgeons, and dermatologists, they provide massage to treat the neck, face, and body with advanced medical treatments. They may perform specialized chemical and cosmetic peels, body wraps, and intense pulse light and radiofrequency therapies.
Education Requirements
Before enrolling in a school for estheticians, you must have a high school diploma or GED. Afterward, enroll in an accredited school through the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). Your courses will depend on the type of esthetician you decide to pursue.
The education process may take a few months or up to two years or more – depending on the area you choose to study. It takes approximately 600 hours to complete an esthetician school program. However, Florida’s hour’s range from around 220 to more than 1,000 (Alabama, Georgia, and Kansas). Some of your courses may include:
- Facials
- Makeup Application
- Skin Conditions
- Sanitation and Safety
- Anatomy and physiology
- Business Skills
- State Laws
The cost of your education can be in the thousands, so plan accordingly. Taking some business classes, such as accounting, is a good idea if you plan on running your own business.
One last thought, going to esthetician school online is not recommended. Why? Because so much of the training requires hands-on experience. Also, not all states allow this, so be sure to check your state’s requirements.
Licensing and Certification Standards
Each state has its licensing certification regulations. But for the most part, the progression to becoming licensed and certified goes like this:
- Upon completing your education with an accredited institution, you will receive a certificate in esthetics
- Take the state exam to obtain your license
- Some states may require so many hours working as an apprentice – usually for a year
- Medical estheticians must pass a much more intense exam that involves a thorough understanding of more advanced concepts and skills.
- A master esthetician license requires advanced training and education in skincare
- All exams include a written and practical portion
- Average exam fees are from $100-$200
- Licensing costs can be $100 annually or every other year
Continuing Education
Most estheticians need to renew their state licenses annually. You may even need to complete a certain number of practice hours.
Also, take time to educate yourself on newer techniques and treatments. Medical findings change and arise constantly, so monitor any upcoming opportunities for advanced therapies.
The best way to serve your clients is to keep up-to-date with advancements in your field.
Profession’s Future
From 2020 to 2030, the Bureau of Labor Statistics expects skincare specialists, including estheticians, to have 29% more jobs. People are constantly seeking ways to slow the aging process, thereby seeking the advice of estheticians. This rate supersedes the average for all occupations during this time frame.
Estheticians’ salaries are influenced by their education, experience, and location. In the United States, an esthetician makes, on average, $41,419 annually. Most estheticians make between $28,000 and $60,000 per year. Estheticians earn an average of $19.91 an hour. The future looks very bright for those in the skincare field.
Key Takeaways
- An esthetician is not a medical professional such as a dermatologist, but they specialize in cosmetic skincare
- Every state (except Connecticut) requires special licensing and education
- Estheticians use many skin treatments to assist their client’s skin disorders and must keep up with the latest advancements
Congrats if you’ve chosen the path of an esthetician! However, before popping the champagne, ensure you fully understand what is required and what steps must be taken. A bright future awaits you in the years to come.