An esthetician is a skin care specialist who focuses on applying a variety of cosmetic and cleansing solutions in order to make people look their best. Estheticians find employment in a variety of work environments, including medical offices, salons, spas and other businesses that focus on cosmetic skin issues. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics calculates that the amount of employment available in the field will rise 40% between 2012 and 2022.
Education Requirements to Become an Esthetician
A bunch of different esthetician programs offer you courses and training that will prepare you to work with your customers. A few high schools have job training courses that help their students learn the profession, but the majority of the programs are post-secondary classes from a state-approved educational facility. Curriculum includes courses about skin care, waxing, customer service in spas, anatomy, business management and nutrition, among other topics relevant to the industry.
The biggest vocational group for estheticians is the Associated Skin Care Professionals, which supports the industry and provides a detailed guide that states follow when they determine the fitness of those who wish to become an esthetician.
The amount of additional training that you need usually takes place while on-the-job, and is dictated by where you work. The training you receive working at a salon differs greatly from training you receive from a medical clinic.
Licensing and Certification
In addition to the Associated Skin Care Professionals, the American Association of Cosmetology Schools, the Professional Beauty Association and the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology all help aspiring estheticians achieve their educational goals before earning certification and a state license to work in the industry.
The Texas Board of Cosmetology requires that candidates complete 750 hours of training before taking the written and practical exam for the license. Schools can help you get both the education and experience necessary to finish the first step to becoming an esthetician.
Opportunities for Growth
Considering the overwhelming demand for esthetician work in the near future, the amount of opportunity to start a career as an esthetician has never been higher. In fact, the state of Texas employs the second largest group of people in this occupation, second only to California. Estheticians also receive a slightly higher average wage in Texas than other locations across the United States.
Demand also leads to possibilities of ownership. More spas and salons will need to open in the near future to meet the desires of the general public. Those starting in the industry can look forward to potentially owning and operating their own spa or salon, making the most out of their education and training in this field.
Do You Want to Become an Esthetician?
Becoming an esthetician is probably easier and more affordable than you think. Training typically takes a matter of months, as opposed to a traditional 2-year degree. Many times you have the option of attending class either on a full-time or part-time basis, whichever is more convenient. At Avenue Five, we offer many advanced techniques including hands-on experience with microdermabrasion, microcurrent, chemical peels, LED light therapy, alternative facial treatments, ingredient analysis, and custom masques.
If you’re in Texas and want to become a esthetician, contact us today to Schedule a tour of our campus.