Job Requirements for a Beautician

Beauticians can cover a wide range of specialties in the services they offer for enhancing personal appearance. Known for providing beauty treatments in spas and salons they can be trained in multiple areas such as makeup application, hairstyling, facials, and manicures. Once beauticians have been employed at various establishments, many of them branch out to owning a business or salon. In order to become a licensed beautician there are requirements to be met.

Education

If you have the desire to become a beautician, you should enroll in a state licensed cosmetology school, vocational school or community college that offers cosmetology programs. Generally, an associate degree and some form of apprenticeship is required. Cosmetology programs can take at least nine months to complete. Classes offered vary in subjects such as hairstyling, brand knowledge, proper sanitation, and nail care.

Licensing

Once you have obtained an associate degree and have experienced some hands-on training, you may apply for a state license to work as a beautician. You will have to pass an examination that has oral, written, and logic components. Each state will have different variations of the test and requirements for taking it. A cosmetology license is a mandatory in every state if you wish to work as a beautician.

Opportunities

Most licensed beauticians get their start by working in salons and spas under already established professionals working as assistants in various workstations. Learning proper techniques and customer service skills as it pertains to this line of work is important to grasp before branching out independently. Beauticians must stay knowledgeable on the latest trends in style, hair, makeup and beauty regimen to perfect their craft and enhance their skills. Beauty conventions, makeup expos and hair shows are popular events within the cosmetology profession. Beauticians should expect to experience industry growth as the demand for hair and skin-care treatment increases.