How To Get Your Esthetician License

 Choosing to become a licensed esthetician will open the door to an exciting new future. You’ll have the opportunity to improve the lives of your clients while doing what you love and earning a solid income. 

But every skincare guru has to start somewhere! If you’re considering a career move into esthetics, you’ll want to know how to establish yourself in the field. Today, we’re discussing the steps to becoming a licensed esthetician to help you get started!

What are the licensing requirements for estheticians?

Esthetician licensing requirements depend on where you plan to build your business. Take a closer look at these conditions:

Do licensing requirements differ between states?

Each state oversees licensing for estheticians practicing within its jurisdiction. Generally, the requirements include completing an accredited training program that meets the state’s minimum hours, passing theoretical and practical exams, and earning continuing education credits.

Do you need to go to an esthetician school?

Esthetician school is the most popular route for people joining the industry. However, it may not be your only option. Many states will accept apprenticeships in place of formal training. In some cases, the minimum number of hours is increased for apprentices. 

Can you get your esthetician license online?

Certain states do allow aspiring estheticians to earn credentials online. However, many of those limit the percentage of hours you can complete through distance learning. Remember, you want to get as much hands-on training as possible, which typically isn’t included in online programs. 

How to get licensed as an esthetician

Once you’ve decided where to practice, you must complete the steps to obtain your esthetician license. Here’s a guide to the process to get you started:

Complete esthetician school or training

You can choose to complete your esthetics training at a dedicated cosmetology school, trade school, or community college. You’ll apply, enroll in courses, and then begin the journey to your new career.

When choosing the right program, you’ll want to consider which aspects of the field appeal to you. Try to select a location that offers courses in a wide range of applications, including waxing and facials, as well as fundamental classes that cover topics like anatomy.

If your state accepts apprenticeships in place of classical training, reach out to professionals who specialize in your areas of interest. Be aware that apprentices may need to complete twice as many hours as traditional students to meet state qualifications.

Take and pass a licensing exam

Most states require estheticians to pass both theoretical and practical exams before earning their license. These assessments allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and hands-on skills to licensing agencies. 

Find an esthetician specialty

As you join the workforce and begin building your clientele, you’ll probably gravitate toward certain services. For example, you might find that you have a knack for sculpting the perfect brow or that performing facials relaxes you as much as your clients. Once you find your niche, you can start building your reputation as the expert in your area.

Consider specialty certifications

Certifications for specialized esthetician services can help you stand out from competition and show you’re committed to your career path. These courses allow you to master techniques that go beyond the basic curriculum of most esthetics programs.

You can opt for affordable courses to learn how to apply lash extensions, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion. Or, you might choose to pursue medical esthetics, which often requires extensive training under a board-certified dermatologist. 

Continue building your skills

As a licensed esthetician, your goal should be to provide your clients with the highest-quality treatments possible. As such, you should continually strive to learn and improve as you treat your clientele.

Choose your continuing education courses wisely. Perhaps there’s an area you haven’t quite mastered yet but you know your clients would benefit from. Selecting additional courses in these areas will help you become the best in the biz!

What to consider before you get your esthetician license

Becoming an esthetician is definitely a rewarding career path. But it can be challenging to navigate your options for growing in your profession. Here are a few suggestions to help you plan for the future:

Look for accredited schools or training programs

While you don’t have to earn a bachelor’s degree to become a licensed esthetician, it’s important to choose a training program that provides a solid foundation in skincare, beauty treatments, and other elements of the field.

Research each program in your area to find out what courses they offer and what former students have to say about their experiences. Online reviews can tell you a lot about a program!

Understand your state’s requirements for esthetician licensing

You already know that each state has different requirements for licensed estheticians. Most require training programs ranging from 250 to 1,000 hours. Additionally, you must pass licensing exams and keep up with continuing education credits. Before taking the plunge, be sure you’re prepared to complete these requirements. 

Consider the services you want to provide as an esthetician

When you find a niche you truly care about, you’ll want to commit to it full-time. But before you dive in, you’ll need to master the fundamentals of the trade. A solid foundation in basic skin care techniques can help you learn which departments pique your interest and get you fired up.

Bosses in Beauty is here to help you achieve your career goals!

At Bosses in Beauty, we’re committed to helping estheticians level up their businesses and take their careers to the next level! Whether you’re just starting out, toying with the idea of going solo, or hoping to expand your clientele, Bosses In Beauty is here to provide the best education and information to current and future estheticians around the globe.

Contact us today to get started!