Have you ever thought about going to cosmetology school? Many people who do not want to go to a traditional university for four years, six years, or even eight years end up considering cosmetology as an alternate route.
It’s a hands-on profession; cosmetology school consists of a little training and a large amount of practice. Many schools offer discounted or free haircuts to those who are willing to let a student practice their craft. Typically, a cosmetologist can become licensed in around a year, although the amount of time it takes to finish the required number of practice hours to attain certification varies depending on the student.

If you’re undecided about cosmetology as a career versus other professions that do not require a college degree, it’s helpful to consider your options. It used to be that certain medical assistants, nurses, and dental hygienists could practice their craft without a four-year degree. The market for these jobs, however, is increasingly competitive, with more and more people opting for at least a bachelor’s degree in such fields.

Trade professions continue to offer viable options. Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, mechanics, and landscape professionals often need special training or certification, but are not necessarily required to have a typical college degree. Certain office jobs, like secretarial or paralegel work, might require only an associate’s, or two year, degree.

Those working in computer science or the arts can certainly benefit from a degree in their field, but talent, skill, and know-how often trump everything. If you know what you’re doing, there are jobs to be had. A number of specialized computer courses that do not require a degree are offered (where else?) online, allowing aspiring computer specialists to hone their skills and acquire new knowledge without having to attend a college.

After reviewing all of the options, it’s clear that there is still a way forward for those looking for an advanced education and viable profession outside of traditional college. To be sure, a college degree is useful, and many people choose to go that route. But if you’re seeking different direction, there are still plenty of options out there.

If you’ve looked at your options and decided on a career in cosmetology, it can be a quite satisfying and productive job. There is often opportunity for advancement, and the level of pay can often depend on your skill and hard work. What’s not to like?

After a long and difficult week at the office, many of us like to unwind by treating ourselves to a relaxing day at the spa where we can leave behind our worries and focus on ourselves. The International Spa Association (ISPA) has taken notice of this trend and reported close to 57 million adults and 4 million adolescents make at least one visit to a spa each year. With more and more people seeking non-medical options to improve their health and revitalize their spirit, those working in the spa services sector – dermatologists, estheticians and medical estheticians have seen a dramatic increase in clientele wanting to utilize their services. If you are interested in alternative ways to reduce your stress and improve your health, look into the different services and benefits an esthetician can bring to your life.

 What Is An Esthetician?

Estheticians work in the spa services sector and specialize in skin care and spa therapies. Estheticians must hold a license, which is issued by the state, in order to provide services in a spa setting. Estheticians generally perform cosmetic skin treatments such as facials, extractions and body treatments. Medical estheticians work under the direction of a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon. While medical estheticians cannot prescribe medications, they are able to perform advanced skin care treatments.

Many people confuse estheticians with dermatologists. A dermatologist specializes in skin, hair and nail care and can also perform surgical and cosmetic treatments. Dermatologists are required to hold a medical degree in order to practice in the U.S.A as a medical doctor, dermatologists are also able to prescribe medications.

 Spa Treatments for the Face

Dermabrasion treatments, facials and extractions are some of the most popular services estheticians provide. In many cases, estheticians will develop a variety of custom-designed facials to help clients deal with different skin-related issues such as peeling skin, dry skin and oily skin. Estheticians also provide dermabrasion and microdermabrasion services to help clients reduce the appearance of wrinkles, tighten the skin and remove skin discolorations and other blemishes.

 Spa Treatments for the Body

In addition to facials, extractions and dermabrasion treatments, estheticians also provide an array of body treatments that remove unwanted hair, smooth and contour the body and relax the mind and spirit. Sugaring, body contour treatments and waxing are some of the most requested services. Estheticians can also perform a variety of massage treatments as well.

 The Benefits of Spa Therapies

Research has proven the positive benefits of spa treatments as many work to relax the body, mind and spirit. For instance, a Japanese study that followed over 3000 government workers revealed that workers who received regular spa treatments had better physical and mental health, a better quality of sleep and requested fewer sick days. Another study performed by Florida State University and George Mason University found that workers who underwent spa therapies performed by estheticians had a decreased chance of being hospitalized for illness and also had better attendance compared to employees who did not engage in spa therapy.

Are you interested in attending beauty school? If you’ve answered “yes,” then you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re already a self-proclaimed expert with the subject, or you’re a complete newbie, there are a few tips you should know prior to even filling out a beauty school application. These tips will even help you to look better as well.

1. Learn to Match Foundation Properly
Foundation is a makeup that many women can’t live without, and many women can’t apply correctly. When someone botches their foundation, it ruins their whole entire look. Unless a woman is one of the few to be born with naturally flawless skin, then you’ll need to keep this in mind when you work with clients. At one time, the rule was to match the foundation with the person’s jaw line; however, this rule is quite outdated and has proven not to be true. With a proper skin care regimen of washing your face twice daily and exfoliation each day, the tone of your skin will fade. In other words, your face tends to be a little lighter than the rest of your body, so you should always match foundation with your collarbone. Remember to avoid translucent powder, because it makes skin look dry and gives it a dusty appearance.

2. Love Bright Lip Shades
This makeup trend takes a little time to get used to, but try it one day, and you’ll understand why it is so important. Use a shade like coral that matches both warm or cool skin tones. Fuchsia works well also, but try a sheer stain, so the color isn’t overwhelming. Remember, learning to love bright colors will help you understand the power that these shades have. They’re flirty, fun and fresh, so what’s not to love? Plus, almost anyone can pull this look off.

3. Messy Eyeliner
The straight lines that circle exactly around the eye are so last year. The stuffy look is definitely out! Instead, you should smear, smudge and blend eyeliner to form soft lines around the eye. Used in combination with eye shadow and a cotton swab, you can make a sexy, smoky eye that never goes out of style. Perfect is overdone, and a less than perfect appearance has become the new “black.”

Turns out, physical appearance does matter when it comes to your ability to succeed in the work place. (We imagine that’s especially important if you’re trying to get a cosmetology job!) This infographic covers how the public believes physical attractiveness may provide an advantage in getting a job or promotion, and some people even believe that looks matter more than your sense of humor or even education. Wha?! So confidence, experience and a great resume are still important to getting a job, but don’t discount the importance of spending a little time and money on your personal appearance if you’re hitting the pavement to find work.

Copy and paste the code below to embed this infographic into your website or blog!

<a href="http://www.beautyschool.com/blog/beauty-jobs/looks-matter-when-job-hunting" title="Looks Matter When Applying for Jobs" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.beautyschool.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/looks-affect-job-prospects-infograph-625x1024.png" alt="Appearance Matters When Job Hunting Infographic"/></a><br /><em>Via <a href="http://www.beautyschool.com/articles/how-is-the-cosmetology-industry-really-doing" title="Beauty Jobs Outlook">BeautySchool.com Beauty Jobs Outlook</a></em>

Our favorite celebrities always seem so put together—perfect hair and glowing, flawless complexions. We’d all like to replicate their look but most of us aren’t willing to shell out the big bucks that they do to look that good.  How can you be red-carpet worthy without spending a fortune on spa treatments and blowouts at the salon?  We’ve picked out a few celebrity make-up artist tips that won’t break the bank.  In fact, these items can all be purchased at your local drugstore.  No need for a shopping trip to Rodeo Drive!

Five Inexpensive Hollywood Beauty Tricks:

1. Primer: Okay, some stars really are born with perfect skin.  But most of them have a little secret called skin primer.  Most skin primers are silicone-based and act as a thin layer that fills in fine lines, large pores and acne scars. The result? A smooth, flawless complexion! Give skin primer a try and you’ll understand why Hollywood make-up artists call it the under-make-up make-up.

2. Skin Illuminator: Where do all the stars get their glow? Skin illuminators!  Most skin illuminators are pearlized shimmer creams that you put under your foundation or mix with your foundation for a fresh, glowing complexion.   Celebrity make-up artists warn that skin illuminators should not be confused with shimmery powder, which can end up looking like a sparkle-overdose.

3. Fast Lash by Tweezerman: Medication to make your eyelashes grow? Expensive.  Fake eyelashes? Messy and inconvenient.  The trick to get quick Hollywood lashes?  A secret to the stars—Fast Lash by Tweezerman.  In fact, it’s one of the most requested products for celebrity photo shoots and special events.  You first coat your lashes with regular mascara, then use Fast Lash which looks like a normal mascara tube but really contains dry white flakes.  These pieces of harmless polyester fiber act as a lash builder when you add another coat of regular mascara.  You’ll end up with thick, luscious lashes!

4. Blue, Yellow or Orange Concealer: You may not believe us, but putting these colors of concealer under your eyes will actually make them look better– trust us!  Blue-based concealer helps reflect light and makes eyes look brighter.  For even darker under-eye circles use yellow or orange concealer which will neutralize the darkness beneath the eyes.

5. Shampoo With Dimethicone Copolyol: Ya, we can’t pronounce it either. What we do know though is that shampoo that contains this ingredient has a little extra “oomph!”  Next time you need to purchase shampoo, make sure it has this volume booster in it.

Love makeup beyond just reading about it. Consider going to a makeup artist school and becoming certified.

State laws seem to be up for discussion in the state of Nevada. It was instituted July 1, 2010 that skin specialists (the ones that practice making you look years younger by taking the wrinkles out of your face) will be required to receive training before getting licensed. Training hours are also being upped from 500 to 600 hours for students studying at Nevada nail technician schools and from 600 to 900 hours for  aestheticians schools.

“The additional training is needed for infection control,” says Vincent Jimno, executive director of the state Board of Cosmetology.

But now this appears to be up in the air. After the instatement of these laws, a spokesman for the Nevada governor recently said the state cosmetology boards will be reconsidered for this state, posing the question “Are they really necessary?”

Make up your mind Nevada!

If interested in attending beauty schools in Nevada, click here for more information.

Live in or near New York City? Have unruly eyebrows? Taking the tweezers into your own hands can be a quick frugal fix, but if you live in the Big Apple, Ramy (aka the Willie Wonka of the beauty world) can set you straight. Eyebrow Intervention Day happening on June 17 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Ramy’s Brow Bars located in three Duane Reed stores around the city will be offering free brow shaping. If you miss this shot at free beauty treatment, you can still beautify your brows at Brow-nanza, the champagne and eyebrow sculpting affair every Thursday from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m at Ramy’s stores.

Who is Ramy (if you don’t already know)

Dropping out of law school to attend beauty school in Australia led Ramy toward the career path of becoming a professional makeup artist. Through his studies and traveling, the brow-master developed the knack to dramatically lift the eye with his gift for eyebrow shaping. Appearing on national television shows including The Oprah Winfrey Show, E! and Entertainment Tonight and being written up in just about every beauty magazine, Ramy rounded up quite the clientele base – Britney Spears, Lindsay Lohan, Nicole Richie, David Spade, Katherine Heigl, Matt Dillon, Cher, Barbara Walters and Regis Philbin (to name only a few!!!). His salons give you a chance to attain eyebrows treatments like the stars.

More Great Brow Possibilities

For us, non-New Yorkers who reside in California, Washington, Texas, Massachusetts or Illinois, amazing looking arches are still attainable from our favorite cosmetic company, Benefit! Their Brow Bar lets you drop in, unannounced. No appointment necessary! Benefit’s aestheticians have more than 30 years of experience shaping brows and offer additional services like waxing and mini makeovers at convenient prices. The newest Benefit Brow location has arrived in Indiana and is  looking for arch experts. Interested? Apply here.

Eyebrow Intervention Day Locations:

Duane Reade LOOK Boutique 51 West 51st Street at 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10116
Phone: 212-582-8525

Duane Reade LOOK Boutique 1350 Broadway at 35th Street, New York, New York 10018
Phone: 212-695-6346

Duane Reade LOOK Boutique 127-137 8th Ave between 16th & 17th Streets, New York, NY 10011

Susanne S. Warfield is the leading expert on the business, legal and liability issues that affect physician and esthetician relationships working in a medical or spa setting. Warfield is a 27-year Licensed Esthetician and is NCEA Certified. Her career started as an Esthetics Instructor at Sheridan College in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, where she taught the 2nd year of a two-year degree Esthetics Program. When she moved to the United States, her advanced training was put into use and she spent almost 14 years working with a dermatologist in New York City. See Susanne S. Warfield’s profile on the My Social Beauty.

Embarking on a new career can be frightening at first because the distance between where you are when you get out of one of the many esthetician schools and gaining the experience prospective employers want can seem so vast. The first step on any journey into the unknown is always the most difficult, and the good news is that once you pass your state boards, you’re actually already on your way.

The next step is to define what is a successful career for an esthetician? You’d be amazed at how many people never bother to plan their careers. They plan just about everything else about their lives – vacations, weddings, even grocery shopping – but when it comes to what they spend most of their working lives doing, they just drift. Most people never actually examine where they want to go; they simply follow the crowd and do the obvious. But even if you get offered the greatest job, it won’t really be your choice unless you actively, consciously make it. I certainly don’t think working in a medical setting is the right choice for every esthetician, nor do I think that every esthetician working in a spa should do it to the exclusion of other esthetic work. I know that working in a dermatology practice was the right choice for me because I made it only after spending a great deal of time thinking about what I like, what I’m good at, and what my options are, given my predilections and my training.

And that’s really the key for any important career decision. It’s a cliche, but it’s true, if you fail to plan–you plan to fail. But really knowing what you like is not so easy as it might seem. Many of us took aptitude tests in high school to find out what we were best suited for. Those tests, among other things, were really subtle explorations of what we enjoyed doing. I’m sure your local library can recommend some reference books if you haven’t explored your skills. Even if you don’t have much faith in the specific techniques these books employ, doing the exercises at least forces you to give some conscious thought to the direction you’d like to take, as opposed to what you think you ought to be doing with your life. Whatever exercises you use, they should have one thing in common: they should help you free your mind from the strictures we usually place on it when we think about work. In other words, when you think about what you’d like to be doing with your esthetics career, you shouldn’t be limited to what you traditionally think of as work. The whole point of these exercises, in fact, is to broaden your usual definitions of work. Think of the things you actually choose to do when you’re completely free to spend your time as you like. That includes what you do for entertainment, volunteer activities, hobbies, anything, even cleaning the garage if that gives you pleasure. In fact, it’s those things you wouldn’t think of under ordinary circumstances that can be the most revealing. For example, if you like cleaning out the garage, it may mean you enjoy bringing order out of chaos – you’re a good organizer.

There are other exercises that are useful for helping define what shape you’d like your career to take. Priority lists, where you list the pros and cons of a decision on each side of a piece of paper and give numerical weights to each entry to see which side comes out ahead, decision trees, or any of a host of methods used to clarify decisions can be used. Make lists of goals for your next position – wealth, challenge, interaction with interesting people, creativity, a pleasant environment, adventure, fame, power, leadership opportunities, long lunch hours, anything you want – and try to imagine the ideal position. Pay attention to what turns you on and to what turns you off.

Remember, these exercises are just for you. Be as free as you can because their only purpose is to help you think creatively about your strengths and to become conscious of the forces that help you succeed or prevent you from doing as well as you can.

Above all, the most important thing to take from these exercises, is that the reasons for choosing to work as an esthetician in a medical or spa setting, be conscious reasons, not vague, undefined impulses. Now get to work planning your future!

If you’re a cosmetology professional, chances are you are already familiar with the National Cosmetology Association and the Professional Beauty Association. (If not, you need to be.) Now, these two organizations have joined forces to help you take your networking and connections to a whole new level.

Individually, each of these organizations has represented the interests of cosmetology and salon industry professionals for years. They have served as networking tools and connection-makers for salon owners, hair dressers, nail technicians, estheticians, educators and students.

By providing resources such as membership publications, discounted products and services, in-depth industry research, industry education, trade shows and networking opportunities, the NCA and PBA have been helping their members enhance their careers and their connections.

New possibilities are definitely in store for current and future members! Check out their websites to learn more about the benefits of membership, to get involved, and to keep an eye out for new developments within the organization. According to the PBA, this merger will be an exciting opportunity for everyone involved. (Gordon Miller, former Executive Director of the NCA has joined Behind the Chair as Vice President of “The BTC Experience.”)

If you aren’t already a member of a professional organization, this is a great time to think about joining! Membership fees are manageable for most members and the professional opportunities are nearly limitless. If you are currently or plan to attend cosmetology school, joining these organizations can be a huge step forward in your career.

Any current members of these organizations? What are your thoughts on the benefits or possible disadvantages to membership?

It seems that the summer blockbuster movies all have a theme: horror movies. District 9, The Final Destination, Halloween 2, and there are only more to come! But, how does all this scary cinema tie into beauty training and careers? Well, all these movies have a major common factor: special-effects makeup artists.

All of the gore and alien arms need to be attached and they need to look real – so, that’s where the special-effects makeup artistry comes in. Even the not-so-scary movies need makeup artists on set to make the stars looks beautiful – or, in the case of the horror movies, scary!

Makeup artists are a huge part of the entertainment industry; and not just for movies, so the move to Tinsel Town isn’t necessarily a must! Runway shows, theater and plays, and photo shoots are just a few opportunities where there is a need for a skilled makeup artist. There are numerous makeup artist careers one could pursue.

Some makeup artists start their training at beauty schools then continue to learn their craft in special effects and other specialized areas by continuing their education with additional makeup classes and courses. You, too, can learn how to take your passion for makeup and make it into rewarding, successful career with a professional makeup artist school.