Everything You Need to Know About an Esthetician License

Everything to Know About an Esthetician License

Your Introductory Guide to an Esthetic’s License

Esthetics–it’s an industry that has never been more in-demand.

Right now, esthetics is the front-and-center, main attraction on the stage of the overall cosmetology industry. And for good reason–it’s a highly attractive skill that opens the door to an astounding career because customers want and demand this niche.

But this industry isn’t just a hot craze with the clients who are visiting estheticians for their skincare and beauty needs; it’s also a wildly popular career move for cosmetologists who are looking to extend their offerings, expand their skills, and serve clients as whole new ways.

From med-spas and health clubs to resorts and self-sufficient studios, esthetic salons and practices are popping up worldwide, and they’re doing really well, too.

The thing about esthetics–and most career niches in cosmetology, TBH–is that you can’t just up and decide to practice esthetics. You need certifications, you need training, your need skills, and importantly, you need an esthetician license.

If you’re so ready to hop on board this train, but you simply don’t know where to start, you’ve found the perfect jumping-off point.

This article will dive into a few basics that we believe you need to know when it comes to attaining that esthetician license.

So, if you’re not sure where to begin, allow us the pleasure of directing you to the starting line–right here!

What is an Esthetician License?

Just like with other cosmetology niches, estheticians cannot practice (in most cases and in most states) without attaining a cosmetologist license. This license is acquired after completing so many hours of education, training, and likely, hands-on practice.

Like with other cosmetology licenses, the number of hours and specific requirements will vary state-to-state, so it’s important to properly research what your state requires before you make the decision to attain your license.

All states license estheticians, and all states require estheticians to pass an examination to become licensed through their state’s Board of Cosmetology and/or their health department.

And again, just like other cosmetology licenses and certifications, esthetician licenses will differ by the skills you’re hoping to achieve and the services you want to offer.

Most esthetic programs will provide you with the opportunity for essential skills–any extra services that are done by master estheticians will include additional coursework, classes, and certification.

There are more opportunities available to estheticians who take the aesthetics route, or rather, the medical approach to esthetics, which allows you the chance to work in medical establishments like plastic surgery or dermatology offices.

Why Your Esthetician License Matters

Your esthetician license matters for a few important reasons. And note, when we say important, we don’t just mean you should think about getting your license; we mean that it’s imperative you have your esthetician license before you start practicing.

It’s Illegal to Practice Without One

Short and sweet, there’s just no denying it–every state will require you’ve done what you need to do to get your esthetician license.

Without that, you’re practicing illegally (which, you know, is a bad thing).

You Need it to Get a Job

On top of the whole illegality thing, it’s doubtful that anyone would hire you without a license.

Employers want to know that you know what you’re doing, that you’ve been trained, and that you’re going to keep their clients both safe and satisfied–without a license, it’s hard to offer those kinds of guarantees.

You Need to Learn the Skills & Best Practices First

We’re not saying you can’t pick these things up without going to school (you could have a kickass mentor who teaches you everything you know), but we are saying these programs are specifically designed to teach you the skills you need, and that’s something you shouldn’t overlook.

To get your license, you’ll need to pass the exam and have a certain number of completed hours–you cannot do this without a cosmetology or esthetician program.

That Credibility is Crucial

For a second, let’s pretend that you could somehow get around the legality thing (you can’t), and you already have all the esthetics skills your need from personal experience (possible, but not recommended). Even if you’re avoiding the “employer” thing and running your own private esthetics business under the table, you’re still going to have a hard time making this happen.

Why? Because without your license, you lack something super important–credibility. Clients want to know that you know what you’re doing, you’re approved by the state, and they’re safe in your hands.

A license is quite literally the defining merit for all of these factors–that’s why it’s so important your license comes first.

How to Get Your Esthetician License

Everyone’s path is a little different on this journey.

First and foremost, we recommend first finding the perfect-for-you esthetics program that’s going to give you the skills you need, the guidance you deserve, and the right start on your esthetician journey.

Not sure which program to consider? Take a peek at our introductory guide to esthetics programs to find your perfect fit.

Then, do what you do best–work hard, put in the time, and pass your exam with flying colors to achieve your esthetician license. We believe in you–you should believe in yourself, too!

So, are you convinced?

Are you, like, barely closing this window before opening another to figure out where you can enroll to earn that esthetician’s license of yours? We hope so.

Esthetics is a fabulous branch of cosmetology that can offer you an unlimited path to success if you’re willing to work hard, continue your education, and grow your business along the way.

We’ve got just one question–what are you waiting for?

Kickstart your esthetician license process ASAP (and don’t forget to snag some helpful, career-boosting esthetician liability insurance while you’re at it).

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