Demand for best estheticians experiences rapid growth

By Laurie McLachlan Brown

Which beauty-related occupation will experience the greatest gain?  Estheticians and other skin care specialists, says the bureau of labor statistics.  Driven by the popularity of advanced skin care treatments and the population’s desire for a youthful appearance, estheticians can expect almost a 38 percent increase in job openings over the next few years.

Now, is the time for aspiring skin care professionals to prepare for successful careers by choosing the right esthetician training and esthetician education. And for good reason: Not only does our population continue to increase but people are living and working longer. Today’s worker recognizes the importance of a good, personal appearance both on and off the job, and expects more of their ‘look’ as each year passes. As a result, demand for skilled estheticians who make the most of hot trends in specialized skin care treatments will continue to increase.

As a licensed skin care consultant, you might work in a salon, day spa, hotel, or even on a cruise ship.  Your day begins by checking your appointments, pulling client files, and reviewing their needs.  Your workstation, organized and sanitized, is ready for services, which might include: body treatments and wraps, waxing, tweezing, facials and massages, make-up analyses, and even paraffin treatments.  You’ll provide consultation such as when your client might want to seek further treatment from a dermatologist, or what products he/she use at home to maintain the smooth, youthful look you provided.

Yet, it all starts with the critical, first step of choosing the right school for your esthetician training. A beauty school directory is a good place to start your research. Different degrees carry varying requirements, including the number of instructional hours required for licensure—which range from 600 to 2,700 or more, depending on the level of mastery. The college or design institute may even offer scholarships, ranging from $300 annually to more than $2,000 depending on the student’s abilities and past academic record.

Hundreds of other scholarships, grants for beauty school, and student loans are also available through federal or state governments, or through private entities, such as sponsoring organizations and private individuals. Check out these links for important information on these worthwhile financial-aid opportunities.

• ACE Grant
• AHBAI Scholarship
• American Cosmetology Education Grant
• Aveda Institute Natural Talent Scholarship Contest
• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant
• Fred Luster Sr. Education Foundation
• Jeanette Rankin Foundation
• NCEA Scholarship
• OPI
• Sally Beauty Supply
• Sports Clip Scholarship