Choosing a Beauty Career Path
If you are interested in working in the beauty industry but aren’t sure which career path or license to pursue, we have dozens of guides so you can explore your options.
Popular Beauty Careers
Cosmetologist
Cosmetologists have the most flexibility to perform a wide range of beauty services, including on hair, skin, and nails.
Esthetician
Estheticians, sometimes called aestheticians or skincare specialists, provide makeup and skincare treatments in spas, salons, and medical facilities.
Barber
If you want to focus on short hair and facial hair, barbering is for you. Though barbers have traditionally worked with men, gender of the client isn't as relevant to the career as it once was.
Nail Technician
Also called manicurists or manicurists and pedicurists, nail techs beautify hands and feet.
Makeup Artist
Makeup artists provide makeup application services. This career doesn't always require a license, but in some states you need an esthetician or cosmetologist license to provide makeup services.
Hairstylist
Hairstylists, sometimes called hairdressers, can provide essential hair services like updos and shampooing. They usually need a cosmetology license and sometimes a specialized hairstylist license to cut, dye, or offer other major treatments.
Electrologist
Electrologists are trained in electrolysis, which is the technique of using electricity to damage clients' hair follicles to permanently remove hair on many parts of the body.
Permanent Makeup Artist
Permanent makeup artists use equipment to inject pigment into clients’ skin. Their services include helping cover up scars, giving the appearance of fuller eyebrows, different colored lips, and more.
Laser Hair Removal Technician
Laser hair removal technicians use concentrated light to permanently remove unwanted hair from their clients' bodies.
Natural Hair Braider
Hair braiders, sometimes called natural hair stylists, offer locking, braiding, and many other popular and protective services. This does not require a license in many states.
Massage Therapist
Massage therapists manipulate muscles and soft tissue to help clients relax and heal.
Salon Manager
Stepping into a business-focused role, salon managers keep salons running smoothly. Some also own their salons, and many opt to spend some time working with clients.
Cosmetology Instructor
Educators are essential to the success of future beauty pros. That's where cosmetology instructors come in.
Advancing Your Cosmetology or Esthetics License
For those with a cosmetology license or an esthetician license, you may consider more niche specialty careers.
READ MORE: What is the difference between a cosmetologist and an esthetician?
Beauty Careers in the Health Field
Whether you’re transitioning from one industry into another or trying to find the perfect niche for your specific passions and skills, there are some career paths that cross over between beauty and medical fields.
READ MORE: Nursing to Beauty, Beauty to Nursing: Making the Transition