Got an Eye for Beauty? Consider a Career as an Esthetician

If you've got an eye for beauty, consider a career as an esthetician. Esthetics encompasses the science of skin care, body care, hair removal, and makeup.

When you become an esthetician, you'll demonstrate proper techniques for skin care and cleansing, recommend skin care regimens, examine and evaluate skin, perform simple extractions, treat skin to improve its appearance, determine products and colors that will improve skin quality and appearance, and apply cosmetic products.

Be sure to enroll in an esthetics program that's accredited by the National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Theoretical esthetics courses should include anatomy, bacteriology, fungus analysis and treatment, nutrition/digestion, professionalism, sanitation and sterilization, skin care, and skin diseases and disorders. Practical esthetics coursework will likely cover aromatherapy, body treatments, client consultation, facials, makeup, mask therapy, massage techniques, medical terminology, patient psychology, reflexology, skin analysis and treatment, and waxing.

Once you've completed your esthetics coursework, you can take written and practical exams through the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology to become a licensed esthetician.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, estheticians held about 30,000 jobs in 2004, and esthetics employment is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2014.

Become an esthetician, and reap the benefits of a truly beautiful career.