So, you have a passion for the beauty industry and you’re ready to begin your journey to an exciting new career in the world of hair, skin, and nails. How much will it cost to attend cosmetology school, and can you afford it?

Earning your cosmetology certificate may not be as expensive as you think – especially with the help of scholarships and grants to support aspiring students. Join us for a guide to the average cost of cosmetology school and some of the popular financial aid options available.

Read more: How to prep for your esthetician state board exam

What factors can affect the cost of cosmetology school?

The overall cost of cosmetology school varies based on a number of factors, including:

Your location

Your city and state will greatly impact your tuition rate. Cosmetology schools in large, metropolitan areas tend to cost more than those in smaller towns and more rural areas. Keep in mind that state regulations, including minimum training hours, will also play a role. 

T...

 If you’re an esthetician, you already know that your location has a huge impact on the services you’re legally allowed to perform. But what states can estheticians do microneedling? Join us as we cover some of the states that do and do not allow estheticians to perform microneedling, as well as those requiring skincare professionals to jump through a few extra hoops. 

What is microneedling? 

Also known as collagen-induction therapy, microneedling uses derma rollers or handheld devices to create micro-perforations in the skin. Since slender needles penetrate up to 3 millimeters into the client’s skin, it’s considered a minimally invasive procedure. Microneedling is highly effective for a number of cosmetic concerns, including: 

• Acne scars
• Stretch marks
• Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
• Sun damage
• Lesions 
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Skin laxity
• Enlarged pores
• Uneven skin texture
• Thinning hair

What states allow estheticians to do microneedling?

According to FDA guidel...

 Skincare professionals looking to bridge the gap between aesthetics and medical science may find the right balance as a paramedical esthetician. This job title blends healthcare with cosmetology for meaningful and exciting work that makes a difference. With a little extra training, you may be able to leverage your passion for the beauty industry for an exciting career as a paramedical esthetician.

What’s a paramedical esthetician?

Sometimes called medical estheticians, paramedical estheticians take on a wide variety of roles in health and wellness facilities. Here’s a little more information on this career: 

What do paramedical estheticians do?

Many paramedical estheticians help patients prepare for and recover from surgical procedures by shaving the treatment area, sanitizing the skin, and sterilizing equipment. They might also encourage blood flow through massage techniques and teach patients how to care for their skin for optimal healing.

Of course, most professionals in this ...

 In many states, laser hair removal can only be performed by licensed medical professionals such as nurses, physician’s assistants, and doctors. However, some places allow estheticians to offer laser hair removal services as long as they meet certain training qualifications. 

Whether your state requires physician oversight for these procedures or places no limitations on laser hair removal, you’ll want to understand the factors that may affect your business. Today, we’re discussing how to add laser hair removal treatments to your service menu as an esthetician!

What are the training and safety regulations for laser hair removal?

While training requirements vary by state, you can expect certain licensing regulations to remain consistent in most areas. Here are some of the training and safety protocols for laser hair removal: 

Training and education for estheticians

Laser hair reduction training is generally not included in most esthetician school programs since these courses primar...

If you’re an aspiring esthetician, you may be wondering if online esthetician classes can offer the same quality of education as in-person courses. After all, busy schedules can make the prospect of completing these time-consuming programs feel impossible.

It turns out that the answer to this question varies based on a range of factors. Before registering for an online esthetics course, it’s important to understand state guidelines and what to expect from online classes. 

Should you take your esthetician classes online?

Online esthetician classes offer the ultimate flexibility for busy students. Here’s what you need to know about these virtual options: 

What to expect from online esthetician classes

Many online esthetician classes include a hands-on clinical to give you practical experience in the course material. Outside of those in-person hours, you can expect the rest of your classes to take place online. Some may use pre-recorded lessons, while others utilize live virtual clas...

 Most jurisdictions require aspiring estheticians to pass a state board exam to receive their license before they can practice. Although each state is different, certain aspects of the test will be the same no matter where you take it.

If you’re preparing for your esthetics exam, you’ll want to know what types of questions to expect and how to give yourself the best possible chance of success. Join us for a guide to the typical esthetics state board exam!

What is covered on an esthetician state board exam?

Ready to get started? Here’s a closer look at state board exams for estheticians:

What topics does it cover?

While the topics on each esthetician state board exam can vary by location, here are some of the subjects you can expect to encounter: 

• Anatomy and physiology
• Sanitation and infection control
• Identification of skin disorders
• Contraindications
• Treatment procedures

Do exam requirements differ by state?

They sure do! Each state has different requirements, so you...

 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 a...

What Do Estheticians Do?

The esthetics industry can offer countless opportunities for those with a passion for beauty, skin care, and anti-aging treatments. But what will you actually do on a daily basis as an esthetician?

If you’re considering a leap into this lucrative field, you’re in the right place! Today, we’re talking about the fundamentals of a career in esthetics and what it takes to get there.

What is an esthetician?

An esthetician is a licensed skin care professional who treats clients with a range of products and services. Here’s a closer look at the job. 

What services do estheticians provide?

As a whole, the field is dedicated to providing clients with cosmetic treatments. But the aesthetic umbrella covers a wide range of services. Some professionals focus on facial therapies and anti-aging solutions like microneedling. Others concentrate on hair removal through waxing services or laser treatments. 

Where do estheticians work?

In the past, you might have only foun...

Whether you’re new to the esthetics industry or an experienced pro, it’s important to keep an eye on the most popular — and lucrative — esthetician services. After all, skincare trends may come and go, but overhead lasts forever.

Join us as we discuss the most high-paying, in-demand esthetician services to help you decide which way to take your career.

What esthetician services make the most money?

While the price of esthetic services varies by location, practitioner, and other factors, some aspects of the field are consistent money-makers. Here are a few to consider:

Skin therapy

Skin therapy is the art of achieving and maintaining healthy, youthful skin. It includes a wide range of treatments to protect skin from signs of aging, such as wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. The applications span from facials and chemical peels to microneedling and lymphatic massage.

With so many focused on looking young and vibrant, it’s no wonder this is one of the best-paying esthetician jobs. 

Wa...

 If you have a passion for beauty and want to help people look and feel their best, the first step to becoming a licensed esthetician is enrolling in beauty school. But before signing up, you’ll want to know what kind of commitment you’re agreeing to and what you can expect to get from a training program. Today, we’re discussing the ins and outs of esthetician school so you can begin planning for the future. 

What is esthetician school like?

Every esthetician school is different, but they all have similar goals: to help aspiring skin care specialists become knowledgeable industry experts. Here are some common questions about cosmetology school:

Are there any prerequisites for esthetician school?

While there aren’t any prerequisite courses you need to take before enrolling in beauty school, most require a GED or high school diploma, photo identification, a completed application, and sometimes an application fee. In rare cases, you may need to pass an entrance exam. 

What kinds of p...