If you’re interested in becoming a beauty professional, you might be wondering which program to enroll in! If you’re deciding between cosmetology and esthetics, knowing the difference between the two can help make your decision easier!
At Elite Academy, we understand how daunting this decision can be. Read our blog to learn the difference between cosmetology and esthetics, and hopefully by the end you’ll have a better understanding and can make an informed decision on which path you choose to pursue!
What Is Cosmetology?
Cosmetologists specialize in hair, skin, and nails. A cosmetologist has the opportunity to perform a wide variety of services because they’re not so specialized in one area. These services can include hairstyling, cutting, coloring, makeup application, skincare treatments, manicures, and pedicures.
About Our Cosmetology Program
The cosmetology program at Elite Academy is 1,500 hours long, which can take as little as 13 months to complete if you enroll full-time. This gives our students ample time to learn the skills and techniques required to be a successful cosmetologist! In our program, you can expect to learn:
- Theory
- Manicures and pedicures
- Facials (makeup)
- Scalp treatments
- Shampoo, conditioning, and rinse
- Hairstyling
- Hair color
- Haircutting and shaping
- Lash and brow tinting and arching
- Professional development
- Hair reconstruction, permanent wave, and relaxing
Careers In Cosmetology
There’s no limit to what you can do with cosmetology! Cosmetology school can give you a wide range of skills that you can expand on in your career. Whether it’s creating hairstyles, mastering makeup, or providing skin care solutions, cosmetology can lead to a career path in beauty. A few options you can choose from are:
- Hair Stylist
- Platform artist
- Salon manager or owner
- Specialist for color or other treatments
- Image consultant
- And more
What Is Esthetics?
Estheticians are skincare professionals. They work to help their clients achieve the best skin possible! Estheticians are trained in a variety of skincare techniques, including facials, exfoliation, extraction, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, and more. Although their specialty is skincare, they can also work in other areas like makeup, lashes, and more.
About Our Esthetics Program
Our esthetics program is 600 hours long and can be completed in as little as 7 months on a full-time schedule. In this program, you can expect to learn:
- Bacteriology
- Dermatology, histology, and physiology
- Facials (draping, manipulation, cleaning, chemistry, and makeup)
- Non-permanent hair removal
- Salon development (administration, insurance, and ethics)
- Cosmetology laws, rules, and regulations
Careers In Esthetics
Estheticians have the opportunity to help clients achieve healthy, radiant skin and boost their self-confidence through personalized skincare treatments and recommendations. You might find an esthetician working as a:
- Skincare specialist
- Medical esthetician
- Clinical esthetician
- Medical spa manager
- Lash artist
- Makeup artist
- Beauty influencer
- And more!
How Are They Similar?
Cosmetology and esthetics are two distinct, yet related fields in the beauty industry! Regardless of which path you choose, here are some similarities between the two:
Beauty Industry Professionals
Both cosmetologists and estheticians are beauty industry professionals who are trained to provide services that enhance clients’ appearance and boost their self-confidence.
Client Interaction
Cosmetologists and estheticians directly interact with their clients. They listen to their needs and preferences and offer recommendations on the best treatments or services to achieve the desired results.
Product Knowledge
They both have in-depth knowledge of beauty products and tools. They both should stay updated with the latest trends, advancements, and innovations in the industry and recommend appropriate products or treatments to their clients based on their needs and goals.
Personalized Approach To Services
Whether it’s creating a hairstyle or providing a skincare treatment, both cosmetologists and estheticians take a personalized approach to their services. They consider the individual needs, preferences, and skin conditions of their clients, tailoring their treatments accordingly.
Ready To Join The Beauty Industry?
Ultimately, the choice between cosmetology and esthetics depends on what your interests are and your career goals. Whether you’re wanting to pursue cosmetology or esthetics, we have the program for you! If you’re ready to join the beauty industry and kickstart your career, don’t hesitate to contact us! Our programs are designed with student success in mind so that they can thrive in their chosen careers.
We are dedicated to our students and want them to receive the education they deserve. We look forward to helping you achieve your dreams in the beauty industry!
