A career in the beauty sector sounds like an easy industry, but this is not the case. A tough competition keeps many beauticians from leaving school and getting on with their careers. The beauty sector is a creative and challenging career path, yet a beautician’s job can be both rewarding and fulfilling. Working in this field can also be versatile.
There’s no right or wrong way to do it! But there are some things you need to consider before choosing the path that’s right for you:
- Location. Where will you work? Will you be working in a salon, spa, or salon? If you’re interested in working from home, consider making sure that the state in which you live allows for such things. Not all states allow this type of practice, so it’s essential to check first.
- Qualifications. What kind of qualifications do you need? This can vary depending on where you live and what type of career path you choose. Some jobs require more training, so make sure your state’s board approves the education program if you want to become a cosmetologist, massage therapist, or esthetician.
- Clientele. Do clients like your personality? If they don’t like how you act or interact with them during their appointment, they may not return or recommend others to see you again. Make sure that people enjoy being around you before pursuing this career path.
- Work hours. Beauty professionals typically work regular evening or weekend business hours, depending on clients.
- Hours to work. Most beauty professionals work full-time, but some part-time options are available.
- Work Environment. The work environment varies depending on the type of salon or spa you choose to work in. Some don’t require physical labor beyond walking on the floor and greeting customers; others involve more heavy lifting or cleaning.
Cool Options for Beautician Career
Professional beauty schools offer training in basic hairdressing techniques that take anywhere from six months to two years to complete. Only licensed beauticians can legally use some tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and blow dryers on clients’ heads without supervision by an instructor or manager at a salon. Licensing requirements vary by state but generally require completion of a minimum number of hours in classroom instruction and practical hands-on training under supervision at a licensed salon or school before taking an exam administered by one’s state cosmetology board.
You can take a free cosmetology practice test to prepare for the main exam. This will give you a heads up on what to expect before sitting for the board exam.
There are many different career choices in the beauty industry, and each has a unique set of requirements and skills. Common job options as a beautician include:
- Beauty Trainer
A beauty trainer is responsible for training new employees or students on the proper techniques and methods for performing beauty services. This may include teaching them how to properly sanitize their tools and perform a specific procedure on a client. Beauty trainers also work with clients who have special needs or disabilities, helping these customers get the most out of their beauty treatments.
- Barber
A barber specializes in cutting men’s hair and shaving their faces. They often work at salons and barbershops but can also be self-employed. Barbers must have excellent hand-eye coordination and a steady hand to make precise cuts without cutting the skin. They need good communication skills because they’ll be working with clients almost daily; they might even become friends with them over time!
- Hair Stylist
Hair stylists can cut and style hair in salons, barber shops, and other beauty establishments. They may specialize in a specific hairstyle or hair care service, such as cutting or coloring. A hair stylist’s work can be physically demanding and emotionally draining. It requires long hours, including evenings and weekends. The job also entails some risk of cuts, burns, and other accidents from hot curlers and other instruments used on the body. The field is highly competitive; many people want to be a hairstylist because they enjoy working with hair.
- Nail Technician
You can work as a nail technician in salons, spas, hospitals, and health clubs. They perform manicures, pedicures, and other treatments such as acrylic and artificial nails. To be a pro nail tech, you must have good hand-eye coordination skills. They also need to understand hygiene practices and sanitation procedures that ensure the safety of their clients.
- Makeup Artist
A makeup artist works in the entertainment industry, on movie sets, or on television shows. They can also be found in fashion magazines or commercials advertising cosmetics products. A makeup artist needs to be creative and enjoy working with people. They must also be able to follow instructions precisely without causing any damage to their client’s face or skin.
- Massage Therapist
A massage therapist is a person who specializes in the art of giving deep tissue massages. This can be done as part of a spa, where there are other services such as facials and body wraps that you can get, or it can be done at home or even in an office setting. The person who gives the massage will typically use their hands, elbows, or feet to apply pressure to different parts of your body. The goal is to help relieve stress and tension over time.
- Cosmetologist
A cosmetologist works in a beauty salon doing hair and makeup. They might also be trained to perform routine facial and skin care treatments. Cosmetologists can work with any type of hair or skin-care routine product. They usually work in nail salons as well, but it’s not required that you be licensed for that. Cosmetology school is usually three years long, but some states require more training.
- Esthetician
What is an esthetician? An esthetician performs skin care services on clients’ faces and bodies. They do facials, waxing, chemical peels, and other spa treatments. Still, they can also be done in doctors’ offices or hospitals as part of professional medical care programs such as skincare clinics for patients with acne or skin diseases. A medical esthetician provides medical care and cosmetic treatments for their patients.
In Conclusion
A career as a beautician is likely full of rewarding experiences, but you must prepare yourself ahead of time. Being a beautician means dealing with people and their unique ways daily, which can sometimes make the job challenging. Still, working as a beautician can be incredibly satisfying, and many avenues are open to you should you wish to pursue it. It may take a lot of hard work, but the results you get will more than makeup for your effort in the end.
