Have you ever wondered what it takes to become a skincare professional? It turns out that the qualifications are highly variable and location-specific, but there are some common through-lines across the board. Join us to learn how to become an esthetician and a few tips for choosing the perfect training program.
What, exactly, does an esthetician do?
A licensed esthetician, also called an aesthetician, is a skin care professional trained to help clients improve and maintain the health and appearance of their outermost layer. Let’s explore the basics.
Where can you work as an esthetician?
Jobs in esthetics can take place in many different locations, such as day spas, medical spas, dermatology offices, resorts, wellness clinics, and even cruise ships.
What services can you provide?
As an esthetician, your duties will depend largely on your location. Most states limit esthetic service providers to non-invasive cosmetic treatments, such as:
- Facials and microneedling
- Chemical peels
- Body wraps and scrubs
- Extractions
- Waxing
- Lash lifts
- Brow lamination
- Makeup application
What are some services you can’t provide as an esthetician?
Some services are strictly outside an esthetician’s scope of practice, including:
- Diagnosing skin or medical conditions
- Prescribing medications
- Cosmetic injections like Botox and dermal fillers
- Deep chemical peels
Many states prohibit cosmetic providers from performing microneedling and laser treatments, while some allow these treatments when conducted under a medical professional’s supervision.
Related: Top Professional Wax Brands for Estheticians
How to become an esthetician
While training requirements vary by location, we can offer some general guidelines to help you begin preparing for your new career in esthetics.
What are the licensing requirements?
You don’t need a college degree to become an esthetician, but you’ll need to meet your state board’s licensing requirements, which may include:
- Minimum age
- High school diploma or GED
- Completing an approved esthetics program
- Meeting mandatory hands-on training hours
- Passing the state board certification exam
- License or endorsement applications
How much does esthetician school cost?
As with state provisions, education costs are also highly variable. Costs depend on several factors: location, hours of coursework, in-person versus online classes, and the type of school or college you attend. Most programs offer some form of financial aid, though, even with varying costs.
How long does it take to become an esthetician?
On average, it can take anywhere from four to 12 months or more to complete esthetics training. Then, you must pass a licensing exam and wait for your state board to process your license application. Check your state board’s website, as there may be a general schedule to help you better understand the timeline.
Do different states have different requirements for estheticians?
Yes. Your location impacts how long it takes, how much it costs, and what requirements are necessary to become an esthetician. Take Florida estheticians and Georgia estheticians, for example.
In Florida, the Florida Board of Cosmetology oversees licensing and requires a minimum of 220 hours of training, with some programs requiring up to 300 hours. For Georgia, though, the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology requires at least 1,000 hours of training before sitting for the licensing exam.
Related: The First Steps Toward Starting an Esthetician Business
How to find the right esthetician program for you
The first step to embarking on your new career path is finding a quality training program that meets your needs. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Is the program accredited or state-approved?
Institutional accreditation is absolutely essential for prospective estheticians. After all, if the state doesn’t recognize your school, you won’t be able to take the board exam or apply for your cosmetology license.
Check official websites for both the state and the training program to ensure you’re not wasting your time and money. If you have any doubts, you can request written proof of approval from the school.
What’s included in the tuition?
Some schools may include the following in your tuition, while others do not:
- Training kit
- Supplies for practical skills
- Textbooks
- Uniforms
- Exam fees
Is there job placement assistance?
Schools that offer support services like resume building, mock interviews, internship opportunities, and job fairs can provide invaluable training and resources to help you make professional connections with potential employers or master estheticians. Some may even help you prepare for certain specializations, such as paramedical esthetics.
What’s the reputation like?
Unfortunately, accreditation doesn’t guarantee a great education or valuable training experience. Look for online reviews, search local social media groups, and reach out directly to former or current students to hear what it’s actually like to attend various programs. First-hand accounts can be very enlightening!
Related: How to Create a Welcoming Waxing Space for Clients
Get more tips and expert insights into navigating an esthetician career with Bare Beauty!
Bare Beauty Wax Supply is your source for high-quality tools and products for your professional practice. We also offer educational courses for licensed estheticians looking to expand their skills. Explore our collections today!