An esthetician, also known as an aesthetician, is a state-licensed skin care professional who has been trained through apprenticeships or formal esthetics programs to perform treatments that promote the health and beauty of the skin. Esthetics refers to the application of various techniques to the epidermal layer of the human body, including steaming, waxing, extraction, chemical peels, and pore cleansing. Estheticians focus on providing beauty care for the face and neck of clients who want healthier skin and who are committed to looking their very best. They perform facials, apply makeup (including eyelash extensions and tinting), provide facial hair removal services, and offer consultations about skin care techniques.
Estheticians are state-licensed health and wellness professionals, with the exception of Connecticut’s estheticians, who are not required to be state-licensed. They must complete a course of training and/or education and pass specific state written and practical examinations to earn licensure through their state board of cosmetology or department of health. Estheticians are sometimes found working in offices of medical practitioners, such as dermatologists and plastic surgeons, but their expertise is solely in cosmetic skincare, with any type of invasive procedure always left to medical professionals.
The entrepreneurial nature of a career as an esthetician is appealing for many who are considering entering the field. Estheticians are starting to see the benefits of working for themselves and are beginning to become interested in entrepreneurship. One of the draws of this career is that you can choose your own time and place when it comes to when and where you work. It’s a very versatile career, providing an opportunity to still take care of the kids and other responsibilities while also doing work you have a passion for.
In summary, an esthetician is a state-licensed skin care professional who performs treatments that promote the health and beauty of the skin. They focus on providing beauty care for the face and neck of clients who want healthier skin and who are committed to looking their very best. Estheticians must complete a course of training and/or education and pass specific state written and practical examinations to earn licensure through their state board of cosmetology or department of health.