How to become a holistic esthetician

How to become a Holistic Esthetician

Becoming a holistic esthetician involves a combination of general esthetician training and specialized education in holistic and natural skincare methods. Here’s an outline of the pathway to the career:

High School Diploma or Equivalent
Most esthetician programs require a high school diploma or GED as a prerequisite for enrollment.

Accredited Esthetician Program
Enroll in an esthetics and skincare program accredited by a recognized body, such as the National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS) or state cosmetology boards in the United States, or a similar accrediting organization in your country. These programs are offered by cosmetology schools, vocational schools, or community colleges. The number of required training hours can vary, but generally ranges from 600 to 1,500 hours. Accredited programs meet requirements for licensing and typically take six to 12 months to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.

The curriculum includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training in areas such as:

• Skin anatomy and physiology
• Skin analysis
• Sanitation and safety practices
• Body treatments (e.g., wraps, scrubs, masks)
• Hair removal techniques (e.g., waxing, sugaring)
• Basic massage techniques
• Use of esthetic equipment
• Client consultation and communication

Some programs offer optional specialized courses or modules, such as:

• Advanced body treatments and therapies
• Laser and light therapy
• Cellulite reduction techniques
• Aromatherapy
• Lymphatic drainage massage

Licensing Examination
Upon completion of an accredited training program, you must pass a state or national licensing exam. The exam typically includes:

• A written test covering theoretical knowledge of skincare and body treatments
• A practical skills assessment where you demonstrate your ability to perform various esthetic procedures safely and effectively

Work Experience
Work as a licensed esthetician in a spa, salon, wellness center, or similar setting, to gain practical experience in skincare treatments and client interactions.

Specialization
Identify and develop a niche or specialization within holistic esthetics based on your interests and career goals. Options include organic skincare, Ayurvedic treatments, or holistic acne care. This can help differentiate you in the market and attract clients seeking specific services. For a complete list of specializations in the field, please see the What does a Holistic Esthetician do? section in the career overview.

Dedicated Holistic Training and Certifications
Pursue additional education and certifications in holistic and natural skincare. Certification programs in the field typically focus on specialized techniques and modalities within holistic esthetics and are offered by accredited institutions or organizations. Here are some examples:

• Aromatherapy Certification – focuses on the therapeutic use of essential oils for skincare and overall wellbeing
• Herbalist Certification – provides training in the use of herbs and plant-based treatments for skincare and health
• Ayurvedic Skincare Specialist Certification – focuses on Ayurvedic principles and treatments for skincare, considering dosha types and holistic wellness
• Holistic Nutrition Certification – provides education on how diet and nutrition impact skin health and overall wellbeing.
• Holistic Acne Specialist Certification – specializes in natural and holistic approaches to treating and managing acne, addressing root causes and promoting skin health
• Facial Gua Sha Certification – involves training in the use of gua sha techniques for facial rejuvenation and relaxation
• Reiki Practitioner Certification – involves training in Reiki therapy, based on the Eastern belief that vital energy flows through the body; a person who specializes in reiki treatment uses gentle touch, or places their hands just above the body, to help guide energy in a way that leads to balance and healing
• Crystal Healing Certification – focuses on using crystals and gemstones for energy balancing and skincare benefits
• Corneotherapy Certification – corneotherapy is a holistic approach to skincare focusing on restoring and maintaining the skin barrier function; the certification is offered by the International Association for Applied Corneotherapy (IAC)

Consider Establishing a Private Practice
If you choose to work independently, set up your own practice or holistic skincare business. Create a business plan outlining your services, target market, pricing, and marketing strategies. Obtain the necessary business licenses, insurance, and financial setup to run your business legally and efficiently.

Continuing Education and Networking
Stay current with the latest trends and techniques in holistic skincare by attending workshops, seminars, and conferences. Some states or countries require estheticians to complete continuing education courses to renew and maintain their licenses.

Connect with other professionals in the holistic health and skincare industry through networking events, professional organizations, and social media. This can provide support, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.

Professional Organizations
There are several professional organizations and associations specifically for holistic estheticians and those interested in holistic skincare and wellness. These entities often offer membership benefits such as access to educational materials, professional development opportunities, conferences and workshops, networking events, and liability insurance options tailored to holistic skincare practices. Here are some notable ones:

• National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy (NAHA) – NAHA focuses on the use of essential oils and aromatherapy in holistic practices, including skincare.
• International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA) – IFPA provides support and resources for aromatherapists, including those using aromatherapy in skincare treatments.
• American Herbalists Guild (AHG) – AHG supports herbalists and those interested in herbal medicine, including its application in skincare.
• Association of Holistic Skin Care Practitioners (AHSCP) – AHSCP is dedicated to promoting holistic skincare practices and providing education and support to practitioners.
• Holistic Spa Alliance – This is a resource for spa professionals who seek community, clean products, advanced education and better business practices with a holistic approach.

The following associations serve the broader esthetics community, including holistic estheticians:

• Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) – ASCP is one of the largest professional associations for estheticians in the United States. It offers liability insurance, continuing education opportunities, business resources, and advocacy for the esthetics profession.
• International SPA Association (ISPA) – ISPA represents spa professionals worldwide, including estheticians specializing in holistic treatments. It provides industry research, networking events, education, and advocacy for the spa and wellness industry.
• Day Spa Association (DSA) – DSA focuses on supporting professionals in the day spa industry. It offers educational resources, business tools, networking opportunities, and industry news.
• American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) – AACS represents cosmetology and esthetician schools, providing resources, advocacy, and networking opportunities for educators and professionals in the beauty industry.
• International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine (IAPAM) – IAPAM offers training and education in esthetic medicine, including skincare and body treatments.
• Esthetician Connection – This online community and resource hub offers forums, educational webinars, product reviews, and networking opportunities for estheticians to connect and learn from one another.