Define Aesthetician
An aesthetician is a licensed skin care specialist. Aestheticians are similar to cosmetologists in that they work with patients to either maintain or improve their appearance. Aestheticians find employment in a variety of establishments, from vacation resorts to hospitals.
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Duties
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Aestheticians perform a variety of functions. They advise their customers or patients on what type of lotions and makeup to use, conduct hair removal procedures and perform advanced skin treatments. Aestheticians improve the health and aesthetics of their client's skin.
Types
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All aestheticians receive training in hair removal, application and removal of makeup and basic skin therapy. Some choose to specialize in one of these areas, while others pursue additional training to become a medical aesthetician.
Medical aestheticians must take courses like biology and anatomy, and are required to pass an additional licensing exam by state governments.
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Employment
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Many aestheticians are self-employed or work in spas, resorts and beauty parlors. Medical aesheticians work in rehabilitation centers, long-term treatment facilities and hospitals.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for aestheticians is quickly increasing.
Requirements
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Aestheticians must graduate from a state licensed institution of higher education and pass a licensing exam before they can practice their craft. The course-work generally takes less than a year to complete and usually includes an internship.
Job Responsibilities
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Aestheticians work directly with patients or customers. They must positively engage with their clients, and work with them to improve their quality of life.
Medical aestheticians may work in high-stress environments to rehabilitate severely injured patients.
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References
- Photo Credit cosmetics image by dinostock from Fotolia.com