How to Be Cosmetologist/Esthetician - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 12, 2020 / 4 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

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The growth of the beauty industry has led to an increase in the demand for cosmetologists and estheticians. As a result, more people have chosen these professions as a career path due to the stability they provide and the potential to earn a good salary. Cosmetologists and estheticians are able to offer beauty services such as haircuts, styling, coloring, manicures, pedicures, waxing, and skincare treatments.

These services help clients look and feel their best, which can lead to improved self-confidence and even positive psychological effects. Furthermore, cosmetologists and estheticians can also provide helpful advice on how to take care of one's skin or hair, helping to create a long-term relationship with their clients.

Steps How to Become

Complete a High School Diploma or GED. Most cosmetology programs require that applicants have either a high school diploma or GED.
Complete an Accredited Cosmetology/Esthetics Program. A cosmetology or esthetics program must be completed at a state-approved school and include both classroom instruction and hands-on training.
Obtain a State License. All states require cosmetologists and estheticians to obtain a license before they can practice professionally. To do so, you must pass a written and practical exam.
Consider Becoming Certified. While not required, certifications can give you an edge in the job market. Depending on the type of services you offer, you may consider becoming certified in a specialized area, such as makeup artistry, hair styling, or facial treatments.
Consider Further Education. If you are interested in teaching or owning your own business, you may want to consider furthering your education. You may be able to find courses that specialize in business management or teaching cosmetology.

Proper skin care is essential for ideal and efficient results. To achieve this, it's important to establish a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, moisturizing, exfoliating, and protecting the skin from environmental stressors. seeing a professional cosmetologist or esthetician can help to ensure that the skin is receiving the best possible care and treatments to achieve desired results.

This may include treatments such as facials, chemical peels, and dermabrasion, as well as advice about skin care products. By utilizing a combination of professional care and a consistent skincare routine, it is possible to achieve the desired results of healthy, glowing skin.

Job Description

Hair Stylist
Nail Technician
Makeup Artist
Skin Care Specialist
Cosmetic Laser Technician
Esthetician
Facial Specialist
Eyebrow Specialist
Waxing Specialist
Hair Removal Specialist

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of skin physiology and anatomy
Understanding of skin types, conditions, and disorders
Ability to identify customer needs and recommend appropriate treatments
Ability to perform skin analysis and customize treatments
Knowledge of professional products, techniques, and tools
Proficiency in facial massage, extractions, and other facial treatments
Understanding of proper sanitation and hygiene practices
Ability to perform waxing treatments
Knowledge of makeup application techniques
Ability to provide excellent customer service
Ability to upsell services, products, and packages
Time management and organizational skills
Excellent communication skills
Ability to work independently or as part of a team

The most important skill for a cosmetologist or esthetician is the ability to communicate effectively with their clients. Good communication skills can help create a comfortable atmosphere for both the professional and their clients. This comfort level allows the cosmetologist or esthetician to better understand the clients needs and expectations, as well as providing the client with an opportunity to voice their concerns.

having good communication skills can help reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings that could potentially lead to dissatisfaction from the client. By creating an environment where clients feel heard and respected, the cosmetologist or esthetician can build trusting relationships with their clients, which can lead to repeat business and referrals. Having a strong communication skill set is an essential tool for any successful professional in the beauty industry.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the cosmetology/esthetician field?
What techniques do you use when providing skin treatments?
Describe a situation where you had to handle a difficult customer.
How would you recommend a facial treatment to a client based on their skin type?
How do you stay up to date on the latest trends and products in the beauty industry?
What safety precautions do you take when performing treatments?
What do you find most rewarding about working as a cosmetologist/esthetician?
What challenges have you faced when working with different types of clients?
How do you handle situations when customers are not satisfied with their services?
How do you maintain a professional relationship with clients?

Common Tools in Industry

Hair Clippers. Used to trim and shape hair. (eg: Wahl Professional 5-Star Clippers)
Hair Dryer. Used to quickly dry hair. (eg: BaBylissPRO Ceramix Xtreme Dryer)
Tweezers. Used to remove unwanted hair. (eg: Tweezerman Slant Tweezers)
Makeup Brushes. Used to apply makeup. (eg: Sigma Beauty Essential Kit)
Facial Steamer. Used to open pores and remove dirt. (eg: NanoSteamer Ultrasonic Facial Steamer)
Microdermabrasion Machine. Used to exfoliate and cleanse skin. (eg: PMD Personal Microderm System)
Waxing Kit. Used for waxing services. (eg: GiGi Brazilian Waxing Kit)
High Frequency Machine. Used to treat skin conditions. (eg: Skin Act High Frequency Facial Machine)
Skin Analyzer Machine. Used to analyze skin conditions. (eg: Skin Scope Skin Analysis System)

Professional Organizations to Know

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons
The American Academy of Dermatology
The American Association of Cosmetology Schools
The Professional Beauty Association
The International Dermal Institute
The Society of Cosmetic Chemists
The National Cosmetology Association
The American Med Spa Association
The Esthetician's Alliance
The International Nail Technicians Association

Common Important Terms

Nail Technician. A professional who specializes in manicure and pedicure services, including filing, trimming, polishing, and decorating the nails.
Barber. A professional who cuts and styles men's hair.
Hairdresser. A professional who styles and cuts hair for both men and women.
Skin Care Specialist. A professional who provides specialized skin care services, such as facials and waxing.
Makeup Artist. A professional who applies makeup to enhance the features of a person's face and body.
Esthetician. A professional who specializes in providing skin care treatments and services, such as facials and body treatments.
Laser Technician. A professional who uses laser technology to perform various skin care treatments and procedures, such as hair removal and skin rejuvenation.
Massage Therapist. A professional who provides massage therapy services to help relax and reduce pain and tension.
Salon Manager. A professional who oversees the daily operations of a salon, including scheduling appointments, hiring new staff, ordering supplies, and maintaining a clean and safe environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Cosmetologist and an Esthetician?

A cosmetologist is trained in a wide range of beauty services, such as hair styling and cutting, coloring, makeup application, manicures, pedicures, and facial treatments. An esthetician is a skin care specialist who is trained to provide a variety of facial and body treatments, including facials, waxing, chemical peels, and laser treatments.

What educational requirements must be met to become a Cosmetologist or Esthetician?

To become a licensed cosmetologist in the U.S., you must complete a program at a state-licensed cosmetology school and pass the state board exam. The training program typically takes about 1,500 hours to complete. To become an esthetician, you must complete a state-approved esthetician program and pass the states licensing exam. The training program typically takes about 600 hours to complete.

What type of salary can a Cosmetologist or Esthetician expect?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for cosmetologists was $25,810 in May 2019. The median annual wage for estheticians was $34,090 in May 2019.

What kind of working environment do Cosmetologists and Estheticians typically work in?

Cosmetologists and estheticians typically work in salons, spas, and other beauty establishments. They may also work in department stores and other retail establishments, as well as in private practice.

What are some of the most important skills for Cosmetologists and Estheticians?

Important skills for cosmetologists and estheticians include customer service, attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to stay up-to-date with the latest trends. They should also have excellent interpersonal skills and be able to provide a calming and enjoyable experience for their clients.