How to Become an Esthetician
An esthetician is someone who specializes in skin and skin care. They provide services like facials, waxing, anti-aging treatments, acne treatments, wraps, and much more. The US skincare industry is expanding rapidly, creating a growing need for estheticians and other skincare professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of skincare specialists is expected to grow 12 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than average for other occupations.
Steps to Take to Become an Esthetician in Houston, TX
The process for becoming an esthetician varies greatly by state. In Texas, it can be a fairly lengthy process, but we’ve outlined it for you below to make it as easy as possible. Keep in mind that in Texas, the prerequisites to qualify for licensure as an esthetician include the following: you must be at least 17 years old and you must have a high school diploma or the equivalent.
1. Complete an Esthetician Training Program
To become an esthetician in Houston, Texas, you’ll need to take a combined total of 750 hours of a commission-approved training program. The program must consist of both classroom and hands-on clinical experience, and will include everything from anatomy, physiology, and chemistry to aromatherapy and color psychology. The program must include 40 hours of safety, sanitation, and first aid.
2. Apply for an Esthetician Specialty License
Once you have finished your esthetics training program, you can apply for an esthetician license by completing the Cosmetology by Examination. There is a non-refundable $50 fee that you will send along with your application to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Once approved, you will be notified by email and can then schedule your exam.
3. Take Both Written and Practical Exams
There are two exams that you must pass to receive your license. First, you must take the written exam, which costs $55 and tests you in the following categories: sanitation, disinfection, and safety; client consultation and analysis; facial treatments; hair removal ; makeup application; and licensing and regulation.
Once you pass the written exam, you will be eligible to take the practical exam. The practical exam costs $78 and tests you in the following areas: disinfection, skin cleansing, face and neck steaming, face and neck massaging, mask and moisturizing, and eyebrow arching.
4. Consider Specialty Certification in Texas
If desired, you can continue on in your certification by pursuing a specialty. Some of the specialty cosmetology certificates that you can receive in Texas include certificates in eyelash extensions, hair braiding, hair weaving, or a wig specialty.
If you do not want to pursue an additional specialty, you can start working as an esthetician!
5. Receive Continuing Education and License Renewal
In order to continue working as an esthetician, you will have to take continued education courses and renew your license once every two years.
Becoming an esthetician in Houston takes commitment, but it is a viable career option for anyone interested in the beauty and skincare industry. The job outlook for estheticians is even stronger in Texas than it is nationwide, making it a great place to focus a passion for skincare and beauty.
