What does a Skin Care Specialist do

Job Overview

A skin care specialist, also known as an esthetician, is a person who provides skin care to clients. The job requires that this specialist use a variety of products and techniques to improve and maintain the health and appearance of each client. He or she must attend an accredited cosmetology school in order to become a licensed esthetician.

After a future skin care specialist completes a cosmetology program, he or she can work in several types of places. They can work in a beauty spa, salon, doctor's office, or other facility that helps people maintain the health of their skin. These specialists may even open their own businesses, working as consultants in the bridal or entertainment industry.

• Teach clients how to properly clean and moisturize their faces.
• Perform facials, chemical peels, and extract blackheads from the skin.
• Provide instruction on how to apply makeup effectively and remove excess hair.
• Offer facial massages.
• Assist clients dealing with skin ailments such as psoriasis, acne, warts, and other conditions.
• Use products such as lotions and creams to tighten and rejuvenate skin for a more youthful appearance.
• Work daily with the public, demonstrating a sincere interest in their well‑being and setting them at ease for treatments that may be somewhat painful, such as hair waxing.

Most states require that skin care specialists complete at least 600 hours of training. Each state has its own requirements to earn licensing. A typical vocational program lasts between nine months and two years. Students learn how to sanitize equipment so they can avoid spreading diseases to clients. A student may also take courses in chemistry, physiology, and anatomy.

Skin care specialists help people cultivate healthy, beautiful skin. This enables clients to feel better about themselves, boosting self esteem as they face the world. By using a variety of techniques and skin care products, the esthetician provides clients with the tools they need to achieve a more attractive appearance.