3 answers
giselle
Student
Largo, Maryland
2
Questions
Updated
2637 views
What are the steps to get started as an esthetician?
I am interested in hair, nails, and other cosmetic services. I hope to gain more insight into how to get started and learn better techniques.
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3 answers
Michael Torio
Consultant - Data Reporting & Analysis (HQ Finance)
422
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hi Giselle:
Educational Pathway for a career in Cosmetology :
One needs to earn a high school degree or a general educational development (GED) before pursuing Cosmetology school. Cosmetology school is around 12 months at a private beauty school. At these schools, a number of hours are required to complete. According to the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), the national average of required hours is between 1,400 to 1,600 to depending on the state where the school is located.
An Associates Degree can be earned at a community or technical college. This will take two years to accomplish. In either scenario at a private beauty school or at a community or technical college, there are costs involved for the programs, hands on training, etc. Cosmetology costs can be up to $20,000+ for tuition, books, fees, supplies, etc.
When considering a Cosmetology program, several things need to be researched:
- The Cosmetology program is state approved, especially for licensing.
- Program reviews will need to be considered from alumni and current students.
- Programs are checked for high rates for graduation.
- Career placement after graduation
- Financial assistance for the Cosmetology program
- Hands-On Training and Apprenticeship Programs
- Continuing education opportunities after graduation
Here are a few websites for scholarship information for Cosmetology:
https://myaacs.org/grants-and-scholarships/
https://scholarships360.org/scholarships/cosmetology-scholarships/
https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarship-directory/academic-major/cosmetology
It'll be best to contact the Registration Office at the Cosmetology school of your choice and inquire about financial aid, scholarships, program requirements, etc. Also, a visit to a local business that offers cosmetology services will benefit you. You can inquire on how one got started in the industry, what educational track was taken, career aspirations, etc.
Hope this information helps and best wishes for your career in Cosmetology!
Educational Pathway for a career in Cosmetology :
One needs to earn a high school degree or a general educational development (GED) before pursuing Cosmetology school. Cosmetology school is around 12 months at a private beauty school. At these schools, a number of hours are required to complete. According to the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS), the national average of required hours is between 1,400 to 1,600 to depending on the state where the school is located.
An Associates Degree can be earned at a community or technical college. This will take two years to accomplish. In either scenario at a private beauty school or at a community or technical college, there are costs involved for the programs, hands on training, etc. Cosmetology costs can be up to $20,000+ for tuition, books, fees, supplies, etc.
When considering a Cosmetology program, several things need to be researched:
- The Cosmetology program is state approved, especially for licensing.
- Program reviews will need to be considered from alumni and current students.
- Programs are checked for high rates for graduation.
- Career placement after graduation
- Financial assistance for the Cosmetology program
- Hands-On Training and Apprenticeship Programs
- Continuing education opportunities after graduation
Here are a few websites for scholarship information for Cosmetology:
https://myaacs.org/grants-and-scholarships/
https://scholarships360.org/scholarships/cosmetology-scholarships/
https://www.scholarships.com/financial-aid/college-scholarships/scholarship-directory/academic-major/cosmetology
It'll be best to contact the Registration Office at the Cosmetology school of your choice and inquire about financial aid, scholarships, program requirements, etc. Also, a visit to a local business that offers cosmetology services will benefit you. You can inquire on how one got started in the industry, what educational track was taken, career aspirations, etc.
Hope this information helps and best wishes for your career in Cosmetology!
Michelle M.
Actress
3284
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Giselle !
It's great that you are interested in the beauty services and I would be happy to guide you as you start out. To begin with, I have provided two schools in your region that offer the programs you are looking for after you graduate high school.
While you are in high school, I advise taking an Anatomy class and a Chemistry class for a good base of knowledge that would help you in the beauty services field of work. You can also get experience by offering to do hair for the theatre club and video production activities or any events, shows or fairs that your school may have. Offer to do hair for friends and family, too. The more hands on experience you obtain before Cosmetology School, the more comfortable you will feel and adjust smoothly. Practice working with rollers setting hair, too, as that is always covered in these programs.
There is also a wide range of instruction, both written and video, online that you can avail yourself of. Pinterest would be a good site to start out with as well as the fashion magazines online version. Do something every day involving hair, make up, manicures and pedicures, facials and any other aspect that you're interested in. Practice makes perfect ! The beauty careers take time because there is a lot to learn, so be patient and consistent with practicing.
Since there are no high schools in Largo, Maryland that offer Cosmetology, you'd have to begin after you graduate high school. It's kind of a good thing because while in high school, you can build up your experience and versatility.
Keep in mind that Cosmetology programs focus primarily on hair and Aesthetician programs deal with the skin and nails. Some schools offer separate short trainings in addition, things like special brow and lash services. You can find out about these at the schools or online if they are offered virtually.
A great opportunity would be to visit both the American Institute of Beauty and Montgomery College (links are below) for an orientation. You would become familiar with the school and can ask any questions you might have. It can be very informative as well as motivational.
I hope this helps to start you out and I wish you all the best as you pursue this awesome career !
THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF BEAUTY FOR HAIR, SKIN AND NAIL PROGRAMS https://aibschool.edu/
MONTGOMERY COLLEGE FOR HAIR AND SKIN PROGRAMS https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/workforce-development-continuing-education/small-business/cosmetology/index.html
It's great that you are interested in the beauty services and I would be happy to guide you as you start out. To begin with, I have provided two schools in your region that offer the programs you are looking for after you graduate high school.
While you are in high school, I advise taking an Anatomy class and a Chemistry class for a good base of knowledge that would help you in the beauty services field of work. You can also get experience by offering to do hair for the theatre club and video production activities or any events, shows or fairs that your school may have. Offer to do hair for friends and family, too. The more hands on experience you obtain before Cosmetology School, the more comfortable you will feel and adjust smoothly. Practice working with rollers setting hair, too, as that is always covered in these programs.
There is also a wide range of instruction, both written and video, online that you can avail yourself of. Pinterest would be a good site to start out with as well as the fashion magazines online version. Do something every day involving hair, make up, manicures and pedicures, facials and any other aspect that you're interested in. Practice makes perfect ! The beauty careers take time because there is a lot to learn, so be patient and consistent with practicing.
Since there are no high schools in Largo, Maryland that offer Cosmetology, you'd have to begin after you graduate high school. It's kind of a good thing because while in high school, you can build up your experience and versatility.
Keep in mind that Cosmetology programs focus primarily on hair and Aesthetician programs deal with the skin and nails. Some schools offer separate short trainings in addition, things like special brow and lash services. You can find out about these at the schools or online if they are offered virtually.
A great opportunity would be to visit both the American Institute of Beauty and Montgomery College (links are below) for an orientation. You would become familiar with the school and can ask any questions you might have. It can be very informative as well as motivational.
I hope this helps to start you out and I wish you all the best as you pursue this awesome career !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Good Day Giselle!
Steps to Get Started as an Esthetician
1. Research the Profession
Before embarking on a career as an esthetician, it is crucial to understand what the role entails. Estheticians specialize in skincare treatments, including facials, hair removal, and makeup application. They may also provide services related to nails and other cosmetic enhancements. Understanding the various aspects of this profession will help you determine if it aligns with your interests and career goals.
2. Meet Educational Requirements
Most states require aspiring estheticians to complete a formal education program at a cosmetology or esthetics school. These programs typically cover topics such as skin anatomy, product knowledge, sanitation practices, and hands-on techniques for various treatments. Programs can vary in length but generally range from 600 to 1,500 hours of training depending on state regulations.
3. Obtain Licensure
After completing your education, you must pass a licensing exam specific to your state. This usually includes both written and practical components that assess your knowledge and skills in esthetics. Each state has its own requirements for licensure; therefore, it’s essential to check with your local cosmetology board for specific details.
4. Gain Experience Through Internships or Entry-Level Positions
Many esthetician programs offer internship opportunities where students can gain practical experience under the supervision of licensed professionals. Additionally, consider applying for entry-level positions at salons or spas after obtaining your license. This experience will not only enhance your skills but also help you build a professional network within the industry.
5. Continue Education and Specialization
The beauty industry is constantly evolving with new techniques and products emerging regularly. Continuing education courses can help you stay updated on trends and improve your skills in specific areas such as advanced facials, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion. Specializing in certain services can also make you more marketable to potential employers or clients.
6. Build Your Clientele
Once you have gained experience and developed your skills, focus on building a loyal clientele base. This can be achieved through excellent customer service, effective marketing strategies (such as social media presence), and networking within the community.
7. Consider Business Opportunities
As you advance in your career, you may want to explore opportunities for entrepreneurship by opening your own salon or spa or offering mobile services. Understanding business management principles will be beneficial if you choose this path.
In summary, starting a career as an esthetician involves researching the profession, completing educational requirements, obtaining licensure, gaining practical experience, continuing education for skill enhancement, building a client base, and considering business opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
National Coalition of Estheticians Associations (NCEA): This organization provides comprehensive information about esthetician training requirements and best practices within the industry.
American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS): AACS offers resources regarding educational programs available across the United States for aspiring estheticians.
State Licensing Boards (various): Each state’s licensing board provides specific guidelines regarding educational requirements and licensing procedures necessary to practice as an esthetician.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
Steps to Get Started as an Esthetician
1. Research the Profession
Before embarking on a career as an esthetician, it is crucial to understand what the role entails. Estheticians specialize in skincare treatments, including facials, hair removal, and makeup application. They may also provide services related to nails and other cosmetic enhancements. Understanding the various aspects of this profession will help you determine if it aligns with your interests and career goals.
2. Meet Educational Requirements
Most states require aspiring estheticians to complete a formal education program at a cosmetology or esthetics school. These programs typically cover topics such as skin anatomy, product knowledge, sanitation practices, and hands-on techniques for various treatments. Programs can vary in length but generally range from 600 to 1,500 hours of training depending on state regulations.
3. Obtain Licensure
After completing your education, you must pass a licensing exam specific to your state. This usually includes both written and practical components that assess your knowledge and skills in esthetics. Each state has its own requirements for licensure; therefore, it’s essential to check with your local cosmetology board for specific details.
4. Gain Experience Through Internships or Entry-Level Positions
Many esthetician programs offer internship opportunities where students can gain practical experience under the supervision of licensed professionals. Additionally, consider applying for entry-level positions at salons or spas after obtaining your license. This experience will not only enhance your skills but also help you build a professional network within the industry.
5. Continue Education and Specialization
The beauty industry is constantly evolving with new techniques and products emerging regularly. Continuing education courses can help you stay updated on trends and improve your skills in specific areas such as advanced facials, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion. Specializing in certain services can also make you more marketable to potential employers or clients.
6. Build Your Clientele
Once you have gained experience and developed your skills, focus on building a loyal clientele base. This can be achieved through excellent customer service, effective marketing strategies (such as social media presence), and networking within the community.
7. Consider Business Opportunities
As you advance in your career, you may want to explore opportunities for entrepreneurship by opening your own salon or spa or offering mobile services. Understanding business management principles will be beneficial if you choose this path.
In summary, starting a career as an esthetician involves researching the profession, completing educational requirements, obtaining licensure, gaining practical experience, continuing education for skill enhancement, building a client base, and considering business opportunities.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used in Answering this Question
National Coalition of Estheticians Associations (NCEA): This organization provides comprehensive information about esthetician training requirements and best practices within the industry.
American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS): AACS offers resources regarding educational programs available across the United States for aspiring estheticians.
State Licensing Boards (various): Each state’s licensing board provides specific guidelines regarding educational requirements and licensing procedures necessary to practice as an esthetician.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯
|==========================God Bless You, Richly!==========================|
|===========================James Constantine===========================|
|===================THE AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK DIETITIAN==================|
|===================Programming For Your Nutrition Education=================|
|============================~ Since 1972!==============================|
✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯✯