How to Become an Esthetician: Complete Information + Step-by-Step Guide

How to Become an Esthetician: Complete Information + Step-by-Step Guide
Cian
Last updated at November 2, 2022

The skincare industry is becoming one of the in-demand trades in recent years. More and more customers go to spas in order to have their skin pampered. And with the rise of the interest in skincare and spa treatments, more people are wanting to know how to become an esthetician.

What is an Esthetician?

Estheticians are skincare specialists or facialists who take care of the quality and tone of the skin of their customers. They typically providers services through a salon by assessing their clients’ skin and making maintenance recommendations based on their client’s type of skin and environmental factors.

Estheticians usually help their clients with minor skin issues such as age spots, wrinkles, or oily and dry skin concerns. They also deliver services like facials and massages and are trained to provide the following services.

Skin Analysis

Estheticians perform skin analysis for clients frequently. They help customers better understand their skin type and what treatments they can use to help have healthier skin.

Skin issues may include:

  • Acne
  • Sun damage
  • Sensitive skin
  • Dry or oily skin
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Whiteheads and blackheads

Facials

Once you understand skin analysis, you will be able to provide your customers with a restorative facial that works specifically for their skin type. This treatment may also include exfoliation treatments and massages.

Makeup Application

Applying makeup well is an art. In order to do it properly, you’ll need to be trained in techniques that including highlighting, contouring, and so on.

Body Treatments

Body treatments are big business. As an esthetician, you will learn how to apply scrubs, wraps, and body masks while also delivering aromatherapy treatments to clients.

Hair Removal

Probably the most popular treatment next to facials is hair removal. Estheticians perform tweezing, waxing, threading, and eyebrow shaping regularly in their day-to-day roles.

Aesthetician vs Esthetician

While the title sounds similar, the duties are different. In short, aestheticians perform medical skin procedures, while estheticians perform cosmetic and cleaning procedures.

In contrast to the services above that are typically delivered by an esthetician, the following medical treatments are performed by an aesthetician.

  • BBL
  • Photofacial
  • Skin tightening
  • Microlaser peels
  • Laser tattoo and hair removal
  • Skin rejuvenation and resurfacing
  • Cellulite reduction and body contouring

Where do Estheticians Work?

Estheticians typically work in spas and salons. Aestheticians can work in spas and salons too but can also be found working in hospitals and medical offices.

Aestheticians assist plastic surgeons and dermatologists in performing certain medical tasks such as providing pre-operation and post-operation skin services, referral to medical personnel for more serious skin issues, and assisting in the administration of medication and treatments.

How to Become an Esthetician?

You may be able to become an esthetician by finding a school near you. Once you’ve applied and been accepted, practice requirements generally range from 300 to 750 hours. After that, you’ll have to pass the state board exam.

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