Estheticians are skin care specialists who work in salons, spas, department stores, clinics and even medical settings. This in-demand job offers flexibility and good pay. However, it also requires the right training in order to be successful. The three keys to choosing the best skin care training program to meet your needs are to make sure they offer the right courses, to make sure you will be prepared for licensing and to make sure the school is a good fit for you.
Inquire About The Skin Care Training Program
The first thing to check about any school is that it offers the proper skin care coursework. A comprehensive cosmetology program usually isn’t enough to give you the special knowledge you need to become a skin care specialist. Instead, you need coursework that offers instruction in skin treatments, facial massage, microdermabrasion and even hair removal techniques.
The best schools also offer classes on anatomy, physiology, hygiene and sanitation, marketing and customer service. Since requirements vary state to state, programs can also vary widely. Some states require as few as 300 hours while others require up to 1,500 hours.
Ensure It Prepares You for Licensure
Finishing the training program is just the first step in becoming a skin care specialist. Once the coursework is completed, you must still take a state board licensing exam. These exams have both a written, theoretical portion and a practical exam which asks that you demonstrate your skills.
The skills that may be tested on this exam include facials, body exfoliation, applying cosmetics, skin analysis and other body treatments. A licensed esthetician must be well-versed in analyzing skin conditions, determining how to treat them, and selecting the right products for the job. The exam ensure all candidates are prepared for this.
Make Sure The School Is Right For You
As with any school, a visit to the campus is crucial in deciding if it is where you want to receive your training. On a visit, you will get to meet current students who can tell you about their experiences, and you will also begin to understand the general way the campus works. You can determine if the other students have similar educational or professional backgrounds as you do, and decide if you feel like you will fit in with your peers.
You can also talk to the admissions counselors about financial assistance, instructor credentials or any other questions you may have about the school. This should help to relieve any reservations, or help you to make the decision that the school is not right for you. A career in skin care can be both rewarding and profitable. There are many jobs available for well-trained professionals in the job market today. For more information about how our skin care training program can prepare you to help others look their best, call us at 512.968.2835 for more details.