You’ve decided to work in the vibrant, exciting beauty industry and now you need to narrow the focus of your education. Two standout options you have when it comes to selecting a career: cosmetologist or esthetician.
When considering cosmetology vs. esthetician jobs, having a clear understanding of what each of these paths encompasses is important. While cosmetology gives you the training to work with nails, hair, makeup and basic skincare, esthetics goes deeper into skin treatments and also includes hair removal, makeup techniques, and body treatments.
At Tricoci University of Beauty Culture, we can guide you in choosing between esthetician vs. cosmetology school and help you jumpstart your beauty career. Here’s what you need to know.
The Difference Between Cosmetology and Esthetics
So exactly what is the difference between cosmetology and esthetics? Many students will be surprised to find that while cosmetology schools often offer both cosmetology programs and esthetics programs, the two only share a few curriculum points. At Tricoci, we believe in a thorough and well-rounded education that equips our students with business and industry knowledge that could be critical to their success. This means that our cosmetology students can learn some basics of skincare and anatomy that often go hand in hand with esthetics courses and our esthetics students can learn chemistry that go hand in hand with cosmetology courses. However, that’s about where the similarities end.
Cosmetology students spend their time focused on the chemistry of coloring, treating, cutting, and styling hair across a diverse range of hair types and textures. They also study some skin care treatments, hair removal, and makeup. For a full in-depth understanding of what students in our cosmetology program learn, check out this blog that offers more details around the program.
Esthetics students, on the other hand, focus more on anatomy, the science of skin, and the chemistry and biology behind skincare, skin treatments, makeup artistry, body treatments, and more. While most students choose one or the other, it’s not uncommon for students to complete both our cosmetology and esthetics programs which expands their knowledge and career options.
Educational Paths for Cosmetologists and Estheticians
Cosmetology students and esthetic students can both pursue salon jobs after graduating and sitting for their licensure exam, but it is more common to see cosmetologists in salons and estheticians in spas.
When considering whether cosmetology vs. esthetician school is the better option for you, keep in mind that cosmetology school typically requires more hours of training to cover all the varied techniques included such as hair cutting and coloring, makeup application, and nail technology. Full-time cosmetology programs at Tricoci University last about 12 months. On the other hand, estheticians can usually complete their training in about six months.
Getting Licensed: Cosmetology vs. Esthetics Requirements
The differences in the cosmetology vs. esthetician license path are also important to consider. Each state has its own required number of hours that a student must complete, in both the classroom instruction and in hands-on training, before you may take a licensing exam for either cosmetology or esthetics.
Cosmetologists typically need between 1,500 – 1,800 hours of training to take the licensing exam. For esthetician certification, state licensing requirements for training hours vary widely. Even though some state requirements are lower, Tricoci University’s esthetics program includes 600-750 hours of training (depending on the state) because we fervently believe this level of experience will best prepare you for a successful career as a licensed esthetician.
Career Trajectories in Cosmetology and Esthetics
With a cosmetology license, you can work as a hairstylist, salon manager, nail technician, and makeup artist, among many other options. As a cosmetologist, you’d typically work in salons, though it’s also possible to work in the entertainment or hospitality industries.
Your esthetician license can allow you to become a hair removal specialist, skin care specialist, medical and paramedical esthetician, or spa technician. You can also work in hospitality as well as in medical fields like plastic surgery clinics.
Weighing Your Options: The Pros and Cons
Both cosmetology and esthetics offer creative and client-focused career paths within the beauty industry. Cosmetology provides a broader scope, encompassing hair, nails, and skincare, which can lead to diverse career opportunities and potentially a wider client base. This versatility is a significant advantage, allowing cosmetologists to adapt to changing trends and client needs.
Esthetics, on the other hand, offers a more specialized focus on skincare treatments, makeup application, and sometimes body treatments. This specialization allows estheticians to develop deep expertise in skin health and provide targeted solutions, which can be highly rewarding for those passionate about skincare.
Both careers offer the satisfaction of helping clients look and feel their best and can provide opportunities for entrepreneurship.
FAQ
What is esthetics in cosmetology?
In the context of cosmetology, esthetics is a field focused on the care of the skin, from improving its texture to ensuring its health. Estheticians can provide facials, superficial skin peels, and even laser resurfacing.
What are the main differences between a cosmetologist and an esthetician?
A cosmetologist works in beautification techniques and can provide nail, hair, and makeup services. An esthetician focuses on skin care.
Are licensing requirements the same for cosmetologists and estheticians?
Cosmetologists need about 1,500 hours of training to get their license, while estheticians typically need about 600-750 hours, depending on the state. Most states require cosmetologists and estheticians to pass an exam in order to receive a license.
How does income potential compare between cosmetologists and estheticians?
Estheticians usually make higher salaries than cosmetologists.
Embark on Your Beauty Career With Tricoci University
At Tricoci University of Beauty Culture, we’re dedicated to helping students find the career path most suitable to their passions. Our courses are designed to guide each student to success in their chosen vocations. If you’ve been searching for the right career, contact one of our advisors to learn more about our programs today.