Cosmetology vs Esthetics: What’s the Difference?

Do you dream of a future in the beauty industry? The beauty industry is full of great opportunities and is a great avenue to pursue a career. If you’ve been researching beauty schools, you’ve probably noticed that a lot of schools offer both a cosmetology program and an esthetics program. Both of these programs are great choices when starting your beauty career, but you may be wondering which program is right for you?

While these programs share some similarities, they’re both very different. Both can lead to very rewarding careers, but what are the differences? What are their similarities? Let’s dive into it!

How are Cosmetology and Esthetics Similar?

Cosmetologists and estheticians are both beauty professionals that share working knowledge of how to perform beauty services that are in high demand. They can even perform some of the same services, such as skincare basics and makeup applications.

Both cosmetologists and estheticians need a license to operate and even learn some of the same skills during their time in beauty school. Ultimately, they’re both great professions and they typically share the same goal: To help people feel as good as they look.

What is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology is the practice of and application of beauty treatments As a cosmetologist, you can expect to learn a variety of different beauty services that you could perform in a salon setting. Cosmetology might be the right path for you if:

• You have a passion for hair, skin, and nails
• Are creative and have a passion for creating
• Learn best in a hands-on environment
• Want to learn all there is to know about beauty

These are just a few of the things that make a great cosmetologist. We understand your passion for beauty and when it comes to beauty, cosmetologists are the experts. As a licensed cosmetologist, you’ll be applying cosmetic procedures and treatments to help people achieve their beauty goals.

What Do Cosmetologists Do?

Licensed cosmetologists can perform a variety of services for hair, skin, and nails. Typically, cosmetologists learn these skills and services through beauty school. Some of the things you can expect to learn in Phagans School of Hair Designs duel programs are:

• Hair Cutting, Coloring, and Styling
• Facials
• Waxing
• Manicures and Pedicures
• Makeup Application
• And more!

With a cosmetology license, you’ll have the freedom to choose to provide a variety of services in different locations, not just salons. Because they learn all things hair, skin, and nails this opens a lot of opportunities for cosmetologists.

How Do You Become A Cosmetologist?

If you believe that cosmetology is the right path for you, the first step to becoming one is by enrolling in a state-approved cosmetology program.

Here in the state of Oregon, in order to obtain your cosmetology license, you’ll need to complete 1835 hours. Once you’ve completed your program, you can expect to prepare to sit for the state exam to get licensed. Once you’ve passed, you should be eligible for your cosmetology license!

What is Esthetics?

Esthetics is all about the science of skincare. As an esthetician, you can help people achieve their skincare goals. Esthetics may be a good fit for you if you are someone who:

• Are passionate about skincare and building a good skincare routine
• Are interested in what goes into beauty products
• Loves creating gorgeous makeup looks
• Love helping people achieve their beauty goals

Currently, the esthetics industry is booming as more and more people turn to skincare. As an esthetician, you’ll be someone who provides skincare services and specializes in skin beautification. If becoming an esthetician is your goal, now is the time to do it.

What Does An Esthetician Do?

As an esthetician, you’ll be someone who provides skincare services and specializes in skin beautification. Just like cosmetology, you’ll learn the majority of skincare services through an esthetics program. Some things you can learn in our esthetics program include:

• Skincare Treatments
• Makeup Application
• Body Treatments
• Temporary Hair Removal
• Lash and Brow Tints
• And more!

These are just a few of the skills and techniques you can learn in our esthetics program. We strive to prepare our students for their careers. Here at Phagans School of Hair Design, your success is our number one priority.

How To Become an Esthetician

As an esthetician in Oregon, you will focus on beautifying your clients’ skin. Just like cosmetology, in order to become a licensed esthetician, you’ll need to enroll in a state-approved esthetics program.

Once you’ve completed a 600-hour esthetician training program, you’ll need to sit for any required exams before receiving your license. Once you’ve passed, you should be eligible for your esthetics license!

Cosmetology or Esthetics?

No matter your passion, you can pursue an education in beauty at Phagans School of Hair Design. We offer both a dual program with an emphasis on cosmetology and an esthetics program. While we can’t make the decision for you, we can go over your goals and our programs in depth. If you’re wanting to get started, contact us today!