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Which to Pick?

If you’re interested in a career in beauty, you’ve probably seen both cosmetology and esthetics programs — and maybe wondered, what’s the actual difference?

While both paths can lead to exciting careers in the industry, they focus on different services, skills, and specialties. Here’s how to decide which one’s right for you.

What Is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology is a broader beauty license that covers hair, skin, and nails.

You’ll learn how to:

• Cut, color, and style hair
  
• Perform facials and basic skincare
  
• Do manicures and pedicures
  
• Apply makeup
  
• Understand sanitation, customer service, and product knowledge
  

Cosmetologists are often found in salons, spas, blowout bars, or even working freelance. It’s a great fit if you love variety and want to offer multiple types of services.

What Is Esthetics?

Esthetics (sometimes called aesthetics) focuses specifically on skin care.

In an esthetics program, you’ll learn:

• Facials and advanced skincare techniques
  
• Hair removal (like waxing or sugaring)
  
• Makeup artistry
  
• Body treatments
  
• Skin analysis and consultation
  
• How to use equipment like microdermabrasion or LED tools
  

Estheticians typically work in spas, dermatology clinics, or medspas — often alongside doctors or other skincare professionals.

Key Differences at a Glance

Which Program Is Right for You?

Here are a few questions to help you decide:

• Do you love cutting and coloring hair? → Cosmetology
  
• Are you drawn to skincare and helping people feel confident in their skin? → Esthetics
  
• Want to work in a salon and do a little bit of everything? → Cosmetology
  
• Interested in clinical skincare and wellness? → Esthetics
  

Not sure? Visit a campus and talk to both departments!

What Do Graduates Go On to Do?

Cosmetologists often become:

• Hairstylists
  
• Salon owners
  
• Platform artists or educators
  
• Nail techs
  
• Freelance makeup artists
  

Estheticians often become:

• Facialists or skincare specialists
  
• Waxing specialists
  
• Medspa technicians
  
• Makeup artists
  
• Skincare product consultants
  

Both careers can lead to entrepreneurship, teaching, or working with high-profile clients — it all depends on your path and passion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do both?
Yes! Many students start with one program and add the other later to expand their skills and services.

Is esthetics included in cosmetology?
Basic skincare is usually part of a cosmetology license, but esthetics dives deeper into advanced skin treatments and technology.

Do both require a license?
Yes — both programs require you to complete your training hours and pass the state board exam for your license.

Want to See It in Action?

Whether you choose cosmetology or esthetics, you’ll be stepping into a hands-on career where you get to help others look and feel their best. The choice comes down to where your interests — and your creativity — feel most at home.

Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

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