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Cosmetologists and estheticians are similar but not exactly the same. People sometimes use the two terms interchangeably, but that's not exactly right. Estheticians tend to work in much more upscale establishments, for one thing. Getting your esthetician certificate can certainly be good for your pocketbook!
This might lead you to wonder if you can be an esthetician with a cosmetology license. Here's what you need to know about cosmetology vs. esthetician license in case you're thinking of upgrading.
Understanding the Roles: Cosmetologist vs. Esthetician
Cosmetologists and estheticians have certain similarities, which is part of why it's so easy to mix them up. If they were exactly the same there'd be no need to transition from cosmetology to an esthetics in the first place.
Both estheticians and cosmetologists share some similar education. Cosmetology license requirements often include basic anatomy and skincare, for example. So does an esthetician certification. That's where the similarities end, though.
Estheticians specialize in skin care and treatment. They also tend to work in different establishments. Estheticians often work in spas, while cosmetologists are often found in beauty salons. This fact should also tell you something about the financial prospects between cosmetology vs esthetician license.
Cosmetologists do it all, on the other hand. They do hair styling, treatment, removal, and makeup in addition to skincare treatments. If you structure your education right, though, you can get a dual cosmetology and esthetician license.
Licensing Requirements for Cosmetologists and Estheticians
Cosmetologists have more demanding certification requirements, due to the fact that they need to have such a wide body of knowledge. Cosmetology certification requires 1600 hours of study on the following topics:
- Scientific knowledge
- Hair care and services
- Skin care and services
- Nail care and services
Esthetician certification is much more focused on skin care, specifically. Getting your esthetician certification requires 600 hours of study on:
- Basic microbiology.
- Infection control procedures.
- Standard precautions.
- Blood exposure procedures.
- SDSM.
- Chemical handling.
- Cell functions.
- Organ functions
As you can see, estheticians require far fewer hours of study. The study is far more intensive and rigorous, though. If you're interested in health and science in addition to helping people feel beautiful, getting an esthetician certification is highly worth considering.
Can You Practice as an Esthetician with a Cosmetology License?
It's sometimes possible to work as an esthetician with a cosmetology license. Different states allow cosmetologists to transition into working as an esthetician with some additional education and training. Many states allow you to apply for esthetician certification if you're already certified in another state. Certain states require more hours to be certified, however, such as Alaska. If you want to get your esthetician certification in Alaska, for example, you'll need 1,600 hours of education and practice.
If you're considering a dual cosmetology and esthetician certification, check your state's esthetician licensing requirements.
Benefits of Dual Licensing: Cosmetology and Esthetics
It's not uncommon for an esthetician to work as a cosmetologist, and vice versa. It's also a good idea for a beauty professional to consider every opportunity at their disposal. Cosmetologists and estheticians are small business owners, after all. Diversifying income streams is the name of the game if you want to succeed in business.
Holding a dual license in cosmetology and esthetics broadens where you're able to work. You can expand into fancier spas and upscale salons where you can expand your customer base. If you're an esthetician who also works as a cosmetologist, you might even get new hair, makeup, and nail clients.
Transitioning from cosmetology to become an esthetician opens up opportunities while giving you much-needed stability. Transitioning to practicing esthetics often allows cosmetologists to realize their dreams, whether that's opening their own salon or becoming homeowners.
Protecting Your Career with Comprehensive Insurance
If you're branching out and offering new services, it's important to make sure you have the right insurance. Comprehensive insurance ensures that both you and your customers are safe and fully protected, so you can focus on delivering your best work.
Now that you've answered "can you be an esthetician with a cosmetology license?" you're ready to sign up for the insurance packages you'll need. You'll need Esthetician Insurance, for example. You'll also need Cosmetology Insurance if you'll also be working as a cosmetologist. If you want to open up all potential doors, you may consider getting a Nail Tech Certification and Nail Tech Insurance while you're at it.
Advance Your Beauty Career with Dual Licensing
Becoming an esthetician as well as a cosmetologist can take a beauty career from great to amazing! Now that you've answered "can you be an esthetician with a cosmetology license?" check out our estheticians and cosmetology certification programs and insurance options. It's incredibly fast and easy to get Estheticians Insurance once you're certified!
