What Is an Esthetician?

These certified experts are dedicated to assisting you in nurturing and preserving the health of your skin

An esthetician, sometimes spelled as aestheticians, is a trained professional specializing in enhancing the skin’s appearance. Estheticians do not offer medical healthcare services; instead, they excel in cosmetic skincare treatments such as facials, superficial chemical peels, body treatments, and waxing. Typically, estheticians practice their craft in spas or salons.

As the demand for non-invasive methods to achieve a youthful appearance grows, so does the popularity of estheticians. In the United States, there are currently over 60,000 estheticians, and their services are in high demand.

This article provides insights into the roles, training, and certification of estheticians, along with valuable tips to help you make the most of your esthetician appointment.

Estheticians: What They Offer

Estheticians, often known as skincare specialists, excel in cosmetic skin treatments. If you’ve ever pondered your skin type or faced the challenge of selecting the right skincare products, consider an esthetician as your go-to source for guidance.

It’s essential to recognize that esthetics and medical practice are separate domains, despite the common use of the term “medical aesthetics.” Consequently, estheticians have clear boundaries when it comes to certain responsibilities, which include:

• Focusing on cosmetic treatments for the skin’s surface layers.
• Conducting procedures like facials, superficial chemical peels, body treatments, and waxing.
• Offering valuable insights into skincare routines and product recommendations tailored to your needs.

Estheticians: What They Don’t or Can’t Offer

However, it’s crucial to remember that estheticians do not engage in activities such as:

• Diagnosing skin conditions.
• Prescribing medications.
• Recommending treatments for skin conditions that extend beyond cosmetic products.

For procedures involving diagnoses, invasive treatments, or medical interventions, it is imperative to consult a licensed medical professional, such as a dermatologist or a doctor specializing in skin conditions. They possess the expertise required for these specific aspects of skincare.

Variety of Esthetician Services

Estheticians often have areas of specialization, and the services offered may vary from one spa to another. Nonetheless, there are several core treatments that estheticians commonly provide.

At the hands of skilled estheticians, you’ll discover a range of rejuvenating services to enhance your skin’s vitality. These services are tailored to your individual needs and preferences. Let’s explore the world of esthetician services:

Facials: The hallmark of an esthetician’s expertise, facials encompass a rejuvenating experience that typically includes deep cleansing, facial steam, an exfoliating treatment, a mask, and the application of moisturizers or serums. During a facial, you may also enjoy a soothing facial massage, as well as massages for your arms and shoulders. Estheticians use specialty products that suit your skin’s unique requirements, and each esthetician brings their unique approach to this treatment.

Extractions: Estheticians excel at blackhead removal, a process often integrated into facial treatments. After gently extracting blackheads, they cleanse your pores of dead skin cell blockages and excess oil. This process not only instantly improves your skin’s appearance but can also aid in preventing future inflammatory acne.

Acne Treatment: For mild acne concerns and blackheads, estheticians employ exfoliation techniques in conjunction with over-the-counter (OTC) acne products. Exfoliation involves the removal of dead skin cells through scrubs or chemical processes. However, it’s important to note that estheticians avoid treating inflamed pimples, as this can exacerbate swelling, redness, and potential scarring. If your acne is moderate to severe, it’s advisable to consult a dermatologist.

Microdermabrasion: This specialized treatment, offered by some estheticians, employs superfine crystals or a diamond-tipped wand to gently remove dead skin cells, resulting in softer skin, reduced fine lines, improved minor hyperpigmentation, and smaller pores.

Superficial Chemical Peels: Estheticians frequently provide superficial chemical peels using alpha hydroxy acids (such as glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid) to rapidly exfoliate the skin and impart a radiant glow. These peels, known for their anti-aging potential, are sometimes referred to as “lunchtime peels” due to their minimal downtime.

Body Wraps, Masks, and Scrubs: Estheticians extend their care beyond the face, offering a range of treatments for the entire body. These may include salt glows (exfoliation using salt), sugar scrubs (exfoliation with sugar crystals), clay body masks, and seaweed body wraps. These treatments exfoliate, soften, and brighten the skin, delivering a silky-smooth and relaxing experience.

Hair Removal: Many estheticians specialize in hair removal techniques, including waxing, tweezing, threading, and laser hair removal (electrolysis). They can expertly remove unwanted hair from various areas, such as the pubic region, back, chest, and face. Common services include bikini waxes and Brazilian waxes, which cater to different preferences.

Airbrush Tanning: While not offered by all estheticians, airbrush tanning has gained popularity due to its safer approach compared to traditional tanning methods. This sunless tanning method involves an esthetician spraying your skin with an ultra-fine mist of tanning product, resulting in a convincing and lasting tan that lasts for up to two weeks.

Makeup Application: For special occasions like weddings or proms, you can book an esthetician for professional makeup application. Estheticians use their makeup kits and clean application tools to enhance your natural beauty. Be sure to schedule well in advance, as makeup artists tend to have busy calendars during peak seasons.

Estheticians offer a wide array of services, including facials, acne treatments, exfoliation, hair removal, spray tanning, and makeup application. It’s common for estheticians to specialize in specific areas, ensuring a tailored experience that meets your unique skincare needs.

Locations Where Estheticians Practice

Estheticians offer their expertise in a variety of settings, each tailored to meet specific preferences and requirements:

• Salons: Estheticians can be found in traditional beauty salons, where they provide an array of skincare treatments designed to pamper and rejuvenate clients.
• Day Spas: Many estheticians choose to work in day spas, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation where clients can escape the stresses of everyday life and indulge in luxurious skincare treatments.
• Skin Spas: Specialized skincare spas are dedicated exclusively to skincare treatments, making them ideal destinations for those seeking specialized esthetician services. These establishments prioritize the health and beauty of the skin.
• Medi-Spas (Hybrid Day Spa and Medical Clinic): The hybrid concept of medi-spas combines the serene ambiance of a day spa with the expertise of a medical clinic. In this setting, estheticians have the opportunity to offer a comprehensive range of treatments that cater to both aesthetic and medical needs, providing clients with a holistic approach to skincare.

Furthermore, estheticians may establish close collaborations with dermatologists. Within medical settings, dermatologists often recognize the value of esthetician services. They may refer patients to estheticians for complementary treatments or incorporate estheticians into their practice to enhance and extend the benefits of dermatological care. In this capacity, estheticians perform procedures that align with and augment the results of dermatological treatments, contributing to the overall wellbeing of their clients.

Training and Licensing for Estheticians

Becoming a licensed esthetician is a well-regulated process across all 50 states. The path to licensure involves the following key steps:

1. Training Requirements: Estheticians-to-be must complete training, typically ranging from 300 to 1,500 hours, depending on the specific state’s requirements. This training takes place in accredited cosmetology programs, where aspiring estheticians acquire the foundational knowledge and hands-on skills necessary for the profession.
2. Specializations: For those interested in specialized areas such as medical esthetics or oncology esthetics, additional training is available. Medical estheticians are equipped to work in doctor’s offices, medical spas, cosmetic surgery clinics, or hospitals. Oncology esthetics entails advanced study, focusing on providing safe and tailored skincare services to individuals undergoing cancer treatments, which can affect the skin, causing issues like dryness and rashes.
3. Licensing Examinations: After completing their training, aspiring estheticians must successfully pass both written and practical examinations. These assessments evaluate their knowledge and proficiency in skincare practices. The state board of cosmetology or the department of health grants licenses to qualified estheticians, allowing them to legally practice their profession.
4. Continuing Education: To stay current with evolving skincare trends and technologies, licensed estheticians often engage in ongoing education. This post-graduate training ensures they remain informed about the latest developments in skincare and can offer their clients the most effective and up-to-date treatments.

In select states, estheticians have the opportunity to pursue advanced training and earn the distinction of “master esthetician” after completing specialized coursework. This recognition signifies their commitment to excellence and their dedication to providing high-quality skincare services.

Preparing for Your Esthetician Appointment

To ensure your esthetician appointment is a success and you fully enjoy your treatment, consider the following tips:

1. Choose the Right Esthetician: Finding the perfect esthetician is key to achieving the best results. Seek recommendations from friends and family to identify reputable professionals in your area.

2. Inquire About Services and Fees: Esthetician services and pricing can vary, so it’s essential to inquire about these details upfront to avoid any surprises.

3. Seek Specialization: Look for an esthetician who specializes in the area that matters most to you. Ideally, they should regularly perform the specific service you’re seeking. For instance, if you’re interested in facial rejuvenation, select an esthetician with a track record in facial treatments rather than one who primarily focuses on other treatments.

4. Check Credentials: Verify that the esthetician holds a current license to practice in your state. Additionally, consider choosing an esthetician certified by respected organizations like the National Coalition of Estheticians Association (NCEA) for added assurance of their expertise.

5. Prioritize Comfort: Esthetician services often involve close, personal contact, and some level of undressing may be required. It’s crucial to feel at ease with your esthetician, so don’t hesitate to request the same esthetician for subsequent visits if you establish a comfortable rapport.

6. Assess Availability: Take into account the salon’s operating hours to ensure they align with your schedule. Also, inquire about the esthetician’s availability, as some may have flexible hours that vary from week to week.

In Summary

Estheticians are skincare professionals specializing in cosmetic treatments. While they cannot diagnose, prescribe medication, or treat medical conditions, they often collaborate with dermatologists to provide a range of services. Common offerings include facials, acne treatment, skin exfoliation and peels, spray tanning, hair removal, and makeup application.

BareFace Aesthetics: Your West Palm Beach Destination for Skincare Excellence

Discover the world of skincare at BareFace Aesthetics, conveniently located in West Palm Beach. Our expert estheticians offer a wide range of cosmetic treatments to help you achieve your skincare goals. Additionally, we provide high-quality skincare products for purchase online, allowing you to maintain your glowing complexion in the comfort of your own home. Explore the beauty of healthy skin with BareFace Aesthetics today.