If you’re the kind of person who loves beauty and skin care products, did you know that you could have a career as a skin care professional? Estheticians are concerned with the esthetics of the skin, so they train to be able to provide clients with all kinds of skin care treatments. From facials to face massages to chemical peels to hair removal, estheticians have knowledge of how to use products to make clients’ skin glow. You may be wondering, “how do I become an esthetician?” Read on to learn the steps you need to take to land a job as an esthetician.
Earn your High School Diploma or GED
In this day and age, it’s hard to get any job outside of fast food services without a diploma or GED. Whether you’re currently in high school or have dropped out, keep in mind that you will not be able to become an esthetician without first getting your diploma out of the way. If you’ve dropped out of high school, consider working to get your GED.
Decide by Learning: Is Esthetics Right for You?
Before making any drastic decisions about the next phase of your life, it’s important to first decide if you’re passionate enough about skin care to make it your profession. Think about what you want to be doing day in and day out. Visit a few day spas and see if you can speak to a licensed esthetician to learn about their experiences. Try and find as much information about esthetics before you pay money and enroll in a program.
Apply and Go to a Vocational Program in Esthetics
Once you’ve decided that esthetics is the field for you, you must enroll in a program at a beauty school or community college. There are usually a few options in every metropolitan area, but make sure to find a program that is accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (NACCAS). Typically, schools will require your high school transcripts, application submission, photo ID, registration fee, and entrance exam.
Earn Your Esthetics Certificate
After you’ve applied and gotten into your chosen program, you need to earn your certificate. Esthetics programs typically last anywhere from six to 12 months. Most programs include courses on nutrition, theory, physiology, skin analysis, facial treatment, hair removal, color theory, business management, marketing, and sanitation and safety. Your program will also give you the hands-on training you need to land a job after graduation.
Obtain a State License
Upon completion of your esthetics program, you’ll need to pass state license examinations to get certified to practice esthetics. Your esthetics program will be geared toward helping you pass this exam. Typically, exams will include both written and practical components.
Search for Jobs
Some esthetics programs will offer job placement assistance, but other than that, it’s up to you to look for jobs in your area. Utilize job search engines and personal connections made during your program to have the best success.
