Ask Emma - Beauty Cosmetics Professional Advice > Which qualification shall I get?
Gemma
Thank you for your comment and interest. Beauty therapy is a fantastic and fast growing industry to be in. Doing a one year beauty therapy course can offer you so many different options, various paths to follow and most of all a thoroughly satisfying and interesting job. Once you have completed your course and settled into working for a salon, only then will you discover the truth about beauty therapy. College prepares you for working in a salon as much as possible, however nothing can prepare you for the likes of difficult clients, dealing with reps and juggling walk in clients like 'on the job' experience will give you.
From working in your first salon, you will discover many things about yourself. You will personally assess your strengths and weaknesses and possible branch out to specialising in one area of beauty therapy. For me, I decided to branch out and specialise in clinical type treatments such as laser and IPL treatments, chemical peels etc.
The vast majority of therapists dream of owning their own salon one day. It’s the ultimate goal for most. This is where the money lies. Working for others, or even managing a salon for others will pay the bills, but will never exceed that, nor will it give you the personal satisfaction.
First things first. You need to train at a college of Beauty Therapy. You can do this part time or full time, depending on your personal situation. You can opt to include massage, aromatherapy, electrolysis, reflexology etc. You must talk to the various collages in your area to discover what core and optional subjects the have on offer.
Be sure to discuss all costs, including exam fees. Hidden costs such as exam fees, tool kit & products, insurance etc are often not included in the overall course content costs.
I hope that this has been helpful for you and that you too join this wonderful industry.
Thank you for your interest.
Warm Regards
Emma
Ask Emma
Hi Emma,
I'm 21 and have finally decided I want a career as a beauty therapist - hopefully one day to run my own business. I have been researching all kinds of courses at different institutes and was wondering if you could advise me which qualifications are most valuable and at which institutes? Thanks so much.
Gemma