What Is an Aesthetician?
An Aesthetician or Esthetician is a cosmetologist who specializes in skin care. They give facials, apply makeup and remove unwanted hair through electrolysis, waxing or other techniques. Medical Aestheticians work in medical offices and hospitals and are required to complete extra training. Schools offering Aromatherapy degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Job Duties of an Aesthetician
Aestheticians may do everything pertaining to the appearance of the skin, or they may specialize in an area such as chemical peels or electrolysis. An Aesthetician's work includes:
- Examining the skin and recommending lotions and other non-medical health treatments
- Consulting with a client about best makeup styles and colors
- Doing masks, microabrasion and other skin treatments
- Applying makeup and teaching the client application techniques
- Removing unwanted hair
Aesthetician Training
Like most cosmetologists, an Aesthetician usually receives her or his training in beauty school. Community colleges may also offer such training programs; look for an Aesthetician, Esthetician and skin care specialist certificate programs. Full-time training takes between four months and one year and usually includes an internship. A Medical Aesthetician completes additional bacteriology, anatomy, physiology and other science courses as required by their state.
Aesthetician Licensing
All states require Aestheticians to be licensed before practicing. Aestheticians who perform certain skin care techniques, such as electrolysis, may require an additional license, as do those who practice as Medical Aestheticians. Each state sets its own licensing requirements.
Work Environments for Aestheticians
An aesthetician can work in a salon, spa, resort or cruise ship. He or she may practice in a large retirement or assisted living community. Medical Aestheticians work in hospitals, rehabilitation units and medical practices.
Income and Job Prospects for Aestheticians
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, predicts that the job market for Aestheticians will expand very rapidly. The Bureau reports that self-employment is common (40%) among Aestheticians, and that the average income is $32,040 per year as of 2008. Indeed.com reports the 2009 average salary for a Medical Aesthetician is $47,000.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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