Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: Which Profession Is Right for You?
Haircuts or hair removal. . . salon or spa. . . hair treatments or skin treatments? What is the difference between what cosmetologists and estheticians do?
You may think that cosmetologists and estheticians provide the same services, but they actually provide different types of treatments. If you’re considering entering into one of those fields, you’d be wise to learn the details about both professions so you can begin your training and career with confidence and longevity.
We’ll go into depth below regarding what cosmetologists and estheticians do, what the major differences are, and how you can decide which one is right for you. If you decide that becoming an esthetician is in your future, Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics can help you get started at our advanced esthetician school in Portland, OR.
Table of Contents
- Cosmetologist vs. Esthetician: What’s the Difference?
- What Does an Esthetician Do?
- What Does a Cosmetologist Do?
- Becoming an Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: How Do You Decide What’s Right for You?
- Become an Esthetician by Training With Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics
While both cosmetologists and estheticians work in the beauty industry, the services they provide vary. Cosmetologists may provide broader services in areas including skin, nails, and hair, while estheticians concentrate their in-depth services on treating the skin.
Not sure which profession suits you the best? Below, we’ll dig into some specifics that can help you decide, including:
- Training and licensure requirements
- Salary
- Work environment
- Career advancement opportunities
When you’re ready to begin your esthetician journey, Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics is here to help you get started. Our top-rated esthetician school in Oregon provides comprehensive training in both foundational aesthetics and advanced medical aesthetics and laser techniques — giving you the best chance to thrive in your career as an esthetician.
Training and Licensure
Requirements for cosmetologists and estheticians can vary from state to state, so it’s important to research what’s required in your particular state. Cosmetology programs take longer than aesthetics. On average, in the United States, cosmetology school requires between 1,400 and 1,600 hours, which can usually be completed by a student who is going to school full-time. Esthetician school, on the other hand, typically takes between six and nine months in a program with around 650 hours.
To get a better idea of what’s involved, let’s take a look at what the requirements are in Oregon.
To be licensed as a cosmetologist in Oregon, you’ll need to complete the following:
- Training – Completing a state-approved cosmetology program of 1,000 hours usually takes one to two years.
- Licensing – To receive a cosmetology license, graduates must pass the state licensing exam from the Oregon Health Authority’s Board of Cosmetology. The exam includes both a written and a practical portion.
Here’s what training and licensure look like for estheticians in Oregon:
- Training – Estheticians must graduate from a program approved by the Oregon Board of Cosmetology. The program includes study in:
- Aesthetics: 444 hours and 222 hours in practical applications
- Oregon laws and rules: 20 hours
- Career development: 20 hours
- Certification – To receive esthetician certification, applicants must pass a written exam approved by the Board of Cosmetology. Additionally, they must pass a written exam on Oregon Laws and Rules. Both exams must be completed and passed within two years of applying.
Work Atmosphere
If you enjoy the social aspect of working with clients in a lively and active environment, cosmetology may be your cup of tea. Cosmetologists may work in salons with open work areas that lend themselves to plenty of interaction with coworkers and clients who are consistently coming and going. Clients coming to a cosmetologist are most likely looking for hair styling or other beauty services.
If a quiet and calm work atmosphere is more your vibe, you may be more suited for aesthetics work. Estheticians often work in spas, where relaxation, calm, and tranquility are prioritized. Clients looking for an esthetician are usually looking for facial treatments like face masks, skin peels, or hair removal.
Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist Salary
It may be difficult to nail down hard and fast salary figures for estheticians and cosmetologists for several reasons:
- Many people in this industry don’t work full-time.
- Some in the beauty industry accept cash tips.
Despite these variables, cosmetologists make an average of $51,724, and estheticians bring home around $44,804.
Career Paths
As a cosmetologist, you could have the opportunity to work in a variety of avenues, including:
- Salons
- Spas
- Private hair styling
- Makeup artistry
- Wedding stylist
- And more
A career in cosmetology can open many doors, either working for yourself or as a team member in a larger salon or spa.
Estheticians typically work in spas, but may also practice their trade in these settings:
- Medical spas with a license in Advanced Esthetics
- Dermatology clinics
- Salons
- Waxing centers
- And more
Like cosmetologists, estheticians can open their own businesses and provide private or specialized services like body hair lasering and removal.
Though cosmetology and esthetic services are different, there can be some crossover. For example, both estheticians and cosmetologists are trained in waxing, makeup artistry, and facials.
If you want to expand your career into medical aesthetics, in addition to our standard aesthetics program, Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics offers an advanced medical aesthetics program at our top-rated school. In just four months, you can complete the 500-hour program and be ready to take your board exam. After that, the sky’s the limit. You can take your career to new heights.
Although aesthetics is perhaps not as broad a field as cosmetology, it can be a deeply satisfying career path, with plenty of new things to learn to keep your interest high and skill development growing. As a skincare professional, you can provide the following services for your clients.
Waxing
Waxing involves using warm wax to remove hair and the follicle. Estheticians may use their waxing skills in a variety of ways, including eyebrow shaping and body hair removal. In addition to waxing, estheticians may also learn other techniques, like:
- Laser removal
- Threading
- Sugaring
- Electrolysis
Facials and Facial Massage
Facials can help clients with skin issues like acne, rosacea, melasma, dryness, and more. Facial massage is an effective treatment to improve the skin’s health, reduce stress, and improve circulation.
Facial treatments may include:
- Washes
- Steam
- Exfoliation
- Masks
- Extractions
- Serums
- Moisturization
In addition to these services, estheticians may also help create skincare routines for their clients based on their individual needs.
Makeup and Lash Extensions
Estheticians receive training in makeup artistry that can be practiced in many ways. An esthetician may use their skills as a makeup artist for:
- Weddings
- Proms
- Other special occasions
- Theater
- Television
- Film
- Fashion
In addition to makeup application, estheticians can also act as consultants, helping their clients know how to choose and apply the best products and colors for their skin.
Lash services that an esthetician may provide include:
- False lashes
- Lash extensions
- Lash lifts
- Brow lamination
- Brow and lash tinting
Microdermabrasion
Estheticians can also perform microdermabrasion for clients with skin issues like:
- Wrinkles and fine lines
- Enlarged pores
- Acne and acne scars
- Stretch marks
- Uneven skin tone
- Sun damage
- And more
Estheticians learn how to remove the outer layer of skin using an instrument with an abrasive surface to provide rejuvenated and smooth skin.
Back Treatments
Many people struggle with acne breakouts in areas other than the face. Estheticians are trained to provide treatments for breakouts that occur on the back, chest, and other areas.
Body Wraps
Clients may choose body wrap treatments for:
- Detoxification
- Exfoliation
- Hydration
- Relaxation
These spa treatments involve applying a gel or mask to the body, wrapping it in plastic, gauze, or a blanket, and then removing it.
Estheticians complete the following steps when performing a body wrap:
- Exfoliation, using a brush or scrub
- Wrapping to help the product absorb into the skin
- Rinsing and moisturizing by rinsing the mask or gel and applying a lotion
Chemical Peels
A more advanced facial treatment, chemical peels use a chemical mixture to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin. Chemical peels can range from light to deep. Estheticians may perform superficial, light peels to improve skin tone, brightness, and texture.
Cosmetologists may provide the following services:
- Hair cutting
- Hair coloring
- Hair styling
- Manicures and pedicures
- Chemical relaxing and perms
- Facials
- Makeup application
- Waxing
Now that you know some of the ins and outs of both professions, how can you decide on becoming a cosmetologist vs. an esthetician? Consider these questions to help you decide:
- Do you prefer a calm and relaxed atmosphere, or do you enjoy being in a busy and fast-paced environment?
- Do you think you are more creative or methodical?
- Would you prefer a workplace with lots of socializing and communication or one that is more quiet and serene?
- Do you like variety or consistency?
If you prefer a busy and social work environment, working as a cosmetologist may suit you better. Each client is unique, and you’ll have the chance to get to know each one and provide the style they are looking for. You’ll hone your skills as you keep up with the newest techniques and skills.
If a calm, peaceful workplace fits you better, working as an esthetician will give you the chance to work in a relaxing environment and provide restorative services to your clients. You’ll be able to focus on the skin treatments your clients desire without the pressure of keeping up with always-changing trends.
And who says you can’t do — or try — both? You’ll be equipped with all sorts of skills and services so you can offer even more options to your clients.
Ready to take the first steps toward an exciting career in aesthetics? Start now by contacting Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics to learn about our programs, workshops, scholarships, and more.
Our exceptional staff and state-of-the-art equipment come together to train and equip you to be the best you can be at your trade, setting you up for the career of your dreams.
In addition to our standard aesthetics program, Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics provides training in the following programs:
- Advanced aesthetics
- Nutrition certification for estheticians
- Phlebotomy
- Esthetician continuing education
You’ve got options when it comes to esthetician training. Here’s why we think you should choose Spectrum Advanced Aesthetics:
- You’ll receive technical, hands-on training with our advanced equipment.
- Our instructors are invested in your success and are highly trained, licensed, and certified.
- We elevate the industry through our comprehensive education and hands-on training, preparing each student to take the board exams.
Get ready to start your new esthetician career. Contact us today.
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