Career in Beauty

Historically, a career in the beauty industry had been considered a second choice. Not so any more. Today, high school honor students and even college graduates are choosing to follow their passion by signing on to a beauty school education, with exciting results.

Whether your primary interest is in hair design, makeup artistry, skin therapy, or nail care, the $60 billion U.S. beauty industry offers a diverse array of exciting career opportunities. Specific career choices include: hair designer/stylist, hair colorist, hair cutting specialist, platform artist, makeup artist, movie and photo stylist, fashion show stylist, spa esthetician, medical esthetician, skin therapist, salon/spa manager, salon/spa owner, manicurist/pedicurist, product educator, beauty care marketer, beauty magazine writer/editor, and so much more.

What makes the beauty industry particularly compelling is the high growth and tremendous demand for qualified professionals. According to the most recent Job Demand Survey prepared by NACCAS (National Accrediting Commission of Cosmetology Arts and Science), even with significant levels of hiring each year, nearly three-quarters of salons that tried to fill jobs were not able to find qualified applicants. “The supply of skilled (beauty) professionals continues to fall short of the demand,” the NACCAS Survey states. What an amazing career opportunity for those with a passion for beauty.

Not only does the beauty industry offer fulfilling work, it offers potential for exciting financial rewards as well. According to both the U.S. Department of Labor and NACCAS, salon professionals can average up to $50,000 a year, including tips. The top professionals gross more than double that much. What is even more rewarding is that a career in beauty sets you up to become an entrepreneur where you can drive your own income and dictate your own work schedule and lifestyle.

Much more important than the financial rewards and the entrepreneurial benefits, however, is the fulfillment that comes from a career that is designed to make people look and feel good about themselves. Beauty professionals have the satisfaction of knowing that they positively change lives each and every day.

As you consider an exciting career in beauty, it is important to recognize that behind the glamour and fashion is hard work, a positive attitude, and continuous learning. In selecting a school to attend, it is important to consider multiple options and to weigh carefully what each has to offer. You would want to choose a school that prepares you well for your licensing exam and also gives you the advanced technical and professional skills you need to excel at the professional level. You also need to consider that school’s reputation in the industry and track record in licensure and job placement. Finally, it is important to visit each school and look to see that the environment is professional yet fun and inspiring. After all, your lasting attitude toward your new career will most certainly be formed during your time at school. So choose well and then put your heart and soul into your education. Success will follow.

For information on programs in beauty, visit The Esani Institute – A Paul Mitchell Partner School.