How to Become an Esthetician in California

California is one of the global epicenters of the beauty and wellness industry. And thanks to its sunny shores all year round, people want their skin looking beautiful, touchable, and smooth at all times. Are you looking to combine your love of beauty with your care for people? Consider a career as an esthetician. Estheticians specialize in improving the appearance and health of skin in a variety of techniques. Each state has its own set of requirements and registrations on how long and what it takes to become an esthetician - follow this guide to become an esthetician in California!

1. Complete an Approved Esthetics Program

In California, estheticians are licensed and regulated by the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. You must complete a Board-approved esthetics program through a school of cosmetology or through an esthetics school. The Board requires that you complete at least 600 hours of successful training in a variety of subjects. Some subjects include, waxing, threading, chemical peels, makeup application, and more. After successfully completing one of these programs, you must take and pass the Board-approved exam provided by your education institution.

2.Complete Esthetician Application

Have you completed your esthetician program? Congratulations! Now it’s time to complete and submit your esthetician application to the State of California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. You can find the application here - be sure to include your licensing fee of $115 when submitting the application.

3.Pass Written and Practical Esthetics Exams

After you have submitted your esthetician application, the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology processes the application. If you have been approved by the Board, you will receive a letter that gives you instructions on how to schedule your written and practical esthetician examinations. The California National Esthetics Exams consist of both written and practical exams. You will take both the written and practical exams on the same day - once you schedule your exams, you’ll receive a confirmation letter with the official date, time, and location of your exams. Once you have completed and passed your exams, the Board will issue you your esthetician license.

Now that you are officially a licensed esthetician with the State of California, you may have some questions:

What Next?

Now you have the opportunity to explore your local businesses for available esthetician openings with spas, salons, and more. If you are having trouble finding a job, consider connecting with your esthetician classmates or school to see what resources and recommendations they may have.

How Much Do Estheticians Make?

Income for estheticians can vary widely - whether you decide to work full time, part time, and where you choose to work, determines your potential earnings. As of 2014, the median hourly wage was $15.67/hour and the median salary was $32,600/year in California.

What Do I Need to Do to Stay Up-to-Date?

In order for your license to stay up-to-date, you must renew it with the State of California every two years. Each renewal must occur during the month it was originally issued and each renewal requires a $50 renewal fee. California does not require any continuing education for licensure of estheticians.