Cosmetology Vs. Esthetics, Which Program is Right for Me?
Are you considering a career in the beauty industry but find yourself questioning whether esthetics school or cosmetology school is the right fit for you? At Rosel School of Cosmetology, we understand the importance of clarity when it comes to choosing the right path for your future. Both cosmetology and esthetics are great career options, but they both come with different skills and experiences. Let’s go over the similarities and differences of them to help you make an informed decision about which course is the best for you.
Esthetics
Esthetics focuses primarily on the health and beautification of the skin. Estheticians are trained professionals who specialize in various skincare treatments, including facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, lash extension, and waxing. Their expertise extends beyond mere cosmetic enhancements, encompassing in-depth knowledge of dermatology, product ingredients, and skin conditions.
At Rosel School, our 750 hour esthetics program equips students with comprehensive training in skincare techniques, anatomy, sanitation practices, business management, and client consultation. With an emphasis on hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills, our curriculum ensures that aspiring estheticians are prepared to excel in the industry!
Estheticians can enjoy a stable, flexible career and have the opportunity to work in many businesses such as: Facial Clinic, Eyebrow Lab, Threading Salon, Skincare Spa, and even on set for movies and TV shows!
Cosmetology
Cosmetologists are licensed beauty professionals that provide hair, skin and nail services, although their specialty is often focused on hair services. They receive a comprehensive education that allows them to be knowledgeable in all areas of beauty. Some of the services they perform are: hair cutting, coloring, styling, perms, chemicals, makeup application, waxing, and much more.
Our 1500 hour cosmetology program equips students with comprehensive training in hair, skincare, nails, makeup, salon management, and everything else you’ll need to become a successful beauty professional. With an emphasis on hands-on experience and industry-relevant skills, our curriculum ensures that aspiring beauty professionals are well-prepared to excel as cosmetologists.
Cosmetologists can enjoy a stable, flexible career, and have the opportunity to work in many businesses such as: hair stylist, makeup artist, salon owner, color specialist, lash and brow specialist, or even assist actors in the movie and TV industry!
How are Cosmetology and Esthetics Similar?
While cosmetology and esthetics have their differences, they also share similarities such as:
- Help others feel more beautiful and confident about themselves.
- Be your own boss and create your own schedule.
- Growing industries with tons of career options.
- Great opportunities to meet amazing people and develop communication skills.
- Passionate leaders within the beauty industry.
- Skip traditional college and graduate faster than your peers.
- Both Cosmetology and Esthetics are great career options for flexibility and freedom.
- Here at Rosel School, both the Cosmetology and Esthetics programs are eligible for FAFSA financial aid and flexible monthly payment programs. Our advisors can help you apply for the FAFSA to see if you qualify.
How are Cosmetology and Esthetics Different?
While cosmetology and esthetics have their similarities, they also have their differences:
• Hour Requirements: Cosmetology and Esthetics programs have different hour requirements. In order to successfully graduate the program in Illinois, a cosmetology student needs to complete 1500 course hours, while a Esthetics students needs to complete 750 course hours. In each state the hour requirements may vary, but typically cosmetology is a longer program that esthetics. This is because cosmetology is a comprehensive program, while esthetics focuses on skincare and facial treatments. Check the required hours for your state here. On average at Rosel School, our cosmetology program takes approximately 12-18 months to complete, while our esthetics program takes approximately 6-12 months to complete.
• Working Environment: Although cosmetologists and estheticians both interact with clients, and need to have adequate social skills, their working environment differs slightly. Cosmetologists usually work in a salon environment. Salons are often busy, social environments where conversation is usually heard. On the other hand, spas and clinics where estheticians work are often more peaceful and quiet places. Although conversation still occurs here, it is more minimal compared to a hair salon.
• Program Cost: Another difference of Cosmetology and Esthetics is the amount you will have to pay for tuition. Although every school has different tuition prices, esthetics programs are generally cheaper than cosmetology programs. There are a few reasons for this. One of the main ones being that Cosmetology programs usually have longer hour requirements than Esthetics programs in most states. In Illinois, the minimum hours required for cosmetology are 1500 hours, while the minimum amount of hours for Esthetics is 750. The other reason is that cosmetology is a comprehensive program, where you will learn all skills and topics relevant to beauty. With the esthetics program, you will only learn skills and topics pertaining to skincare, facial hair care, and facial treatments. At Rosel School the tuition price for the Cosmetology program is $15,000, while the tuition for the Esthetics Program is $12,000. Thankfully for students, FAFSA financial aid is offered for students in the cosmetology and esthetics programs.
Which Career is Right for Me?
It’s okay if you are having trouble deciding whether cosmetology or esthetics is right for you. Going to beauty school is a big decision and there are many things to consider before you apply to a program. Consider what you value and what interests you. If you are more interested in skincare and spa treatments, then you should look into becoming an esthetician. If you enjoy working with hair and value a comprehensive education, then the cosmetology program would be the right fit for you. If you enjoy having great conversations and connections with people, consider a career in cosmetology. Hair salons tend to be lively, social places, where you can always strike up a good conversation. If you are more introverted, or you prefer a calmer environment, consider a career as an esthetician. In comparison, skincare clinics and spas have a more serene and quiet environment. Conversations are usually more minimal here than salons, and feature a more relaxing ambiance.
Hopefully that helps give you an idea on which program is the best fit for you. Cosmetology and esthetics are both great career choices and no matter which one you choose, you will be on a great path for success. Here at Rosel School we are passionate about both cosmetology and esthetics, if you have any questions about our programs, please reach out and we will be happy to assist you.
