Cosmetology vs Esthetics: What’s the Difference?
If you have a passion for helping others feel good, you may have considered attending beauty school to launch your career as a stylist, skin care specialist, or nail technician. But which career path is right for you? Deciding on your ideal career in the beauty industry will help guide you to the perfect educational program to build the skills you need. You’ll most likely choose between cosmetology school and esthetics school, which each cover some common ground, but have some important distinctions to be aware of. Often, cosmetology and esthetics programs are offered within the same institution. At The Studio Academy of Beauty, you’ll find cosmetology, esthetics, hair stylist, and instructor educator programs within our Phoenix beauty school.
What is cosmetology?
Often, cosmetology is considered synonymous with hair care. However, this field includes so much more. Cosmetology covers a broad range of beauty care services, including hair cutting and styling, hair coloring and chemical treatments, facials, makeup, manicuring, and general skincare. If you’re looking for a career that is an expression of your creativity, cosmetology may be a good fit. It combines both art and science and allows you to work with a huge variety of clients. In Arizona (and all states in the U.S.) cosmetologists must be certified by the state licensing board to practice their craft in any salon or private business setting.
What is esthetics?
Esthetics is where beauty and medicine meet. Often, estheticians work in spas or cosmetic medical practices providing a wide range of skincare services, including facials, face and body waxing, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and body treatments. In addition, estheticians must have in-depth knowledge of various skin care products to make appropriate recommendations to their clients. Commissions earned from product sales may be part of your salary as an esthetician, depending on your work environment. Esthetics school also covers makeup application, often with greater depth than cosmetology. Estheticians may practice specialized makeup techniques for theater, weddings, and other special occasions. While there is still a creative flair involved in this skincare-focused field, it also beckons those who have an interest in anatomy, biology, and the science of aging.
How do the two fields compare?
Both esthetics and cosmetology are built on a foundation of understanding basic anatomy, physiology, and microbiology. Careers in both fields also require nearly constant client interaction, so you should have a friendly personality and love interacting with others to thrive in your career following either degree program. Here’s a closer look at how the two fields compare.
Work Environment
Estheticians and cosmetologists may work side by side in salons and spas. However, estheticians more commonly find themselves working within the medical field in med-spa environments. Cosmetologists may be employed in salons of all types from family-friendly neighborhood businesses to high-end salons. With either career path, you may also find yourself traveling for work as a platform artist, image consultant, cruise ship service provider, or freelancer. As you grow your career, you may eventually become an instructor within your field following secondary education within a qualified cosmetology or esthetics school. Alternatively, you may choose to open your own spa or salon, which is achievable with a background in either specialty.
In terms of career outlook, both esthetics and cosmetology are expected to see growth over the next decade. However, due to the growing number of men seeking skincare services paired with overall increased demand for non-surgical cosmetic skincare, estheticians are likely to see a larger number of career opportunities, especially as beginners.
Educational Requirements
Both estheticians and cosmetologists must be licensed by the state licensing board in the state where they work. In Arizona, earning a license to practice cosmetology requires completion of a 1600-hour program that includes classroom education and instructor-supervised services performed on real clients. Estheticians must complete a 600-hour program that combines both classroom education and client services under instructor supervision. Prerequisites for either program include U.S. citizenship and a high school diploma or GED.
Why choose The Studio Academy of Beauty for your career growth?
With The Studio Academy of Beauty, you can develop the skills you need to thrive as a cosmetologist or esthetician along with the confidence to hone your craft. Our Phoenix beauty school curriculum is developed from the internationally-recognized Pivot Point System, and our passionate instructors truly care about the success of our students. All services performed in our student spa are provided under instructor supervision, offering students the opportunity to sharpen their skills and feel fully prepared to sit for their state licensing exams at the end of their programs.
Reach out to one of our campuses in Phoenix, Chandler, or Tolleson to explore the possibilities for your future. Schedule a campus tour or get more information about our programs and financial aid opportunities by contacting admissions@thestudioacademyofbeauty.com. Alternatively, dial 844-219-7650 for our Phoenix campus, (480) 857-8452 in Chandler, or 844-219-7650 in Tolleson.
