The beauty industry offers many exciting career paths for those interested in making a difference in people’s lives. One such option is becoming an esthetician.
Estheticians provide cosmetic treatments to their clients, such as facials, chemical peels, makeup applications, and hair removal services. Those who specialize in their field can make up to six figures.
What You Need to Know
A career as an esthetician can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. If you’re looking for a job that combines your love of beauty, skincare, and customer service, this may be the perfect field for you.
Most estheticians work in spas or salons, but some start their businesses independently. This gives them more control over who they work with, their salaries, and schedules.
Estheticians are required to be licensed in most states. This usually requires a certain amount of training hours, passing a written exam, and passing a hands-on practical test. Your school can help you determine the licensing requirements in your area.
As an esthetician, you’ll need various skin care products and tools to perform your services. Choosing the right and the best ones can significantly impact your clients’ experiences and your bottom line.
How to Get Started
So, how to become an esthetician? You’ll want to find an esthetics program approved by your state and allow you to apply for licensure when you graduate. Many states also accept apprenticeship practice hours instead of formal education.
Once you’ve graduated, you’ll want to gain experience as an assistant in a salon or spa, preferably one that offers the services you plan on providing once you’re licensed. This will give you a taste of what it’s like to work as an esthetician and help prepare you for the licensing exam.
Another great way to get experience is to start a side hustle, such as providing waxing or makeup services for special occasions. This will allow you to build a client base before opening your salon or offering high-ticket services, like microblading and eyelash extensions, that can bring in six figures annually. You’ll also learn the tricks of the trade that need to be covered in school, including marketing, business, and management skills.
Finding a Program
Aestheticians can work in various settings, including dermatologist offices and luxury spas in resort towns. They can also partner with stylists, registered massage therapists, and makeup artists to make clients feel cared for from head to toe.
A good esthetician school should have a strong reputation and an excellent track record for graduating students. It should also offer flexible scheduling to fit the needs of working professionals.
Many cosmetology schools now offer online esthetician classes that will get you certified in your state. However, the state licensing exam must still be taken in person.
Getting Your License
Continuing education is essential for estheticians who want to stay abreast of the latest research and product developments. Additionally, many states require certain continuing education credits to maintain licensure.
After graduating from a good esthetician school, you must take the state licensing exams and pay a licensing fee. Once you have completed the theory and practical exams, you can apply for your license online through New York’s License Center.
Once licensed, you can work in medical and day spas, salons, hotel and resort beauty departments, dermatology offices, retail cosmetic counters, cruise ships, and home beauty businesses. However, the best estheticians focus on providing their clients with a high level of service and establishing loyal client bases that follow them when they move from one location to another. This can be an exciting and fulfilling life for a devoted beauty professional.
