In a nutshell, cosmetology is a term used to describe a variety of industries and fields, each of which could be considered a specialty in itself. However, when discussing the health and beauty of skin, the term “aesthetics” will be used to describe the practices and methods associated with that specialty.

In the field, cosmetologists and estheticians are often getting confused. Let's take a look at what it means and how to distinguish between the two.

1) Skincare

Cosmetologist is a general term that may be used to describe any professional in the field of beauty and cosmetics. In short, a person with a cosmetologist license or certificate is able to practice in the field of cosmetics such as hair removal, face and body treatments, and skincare.

Esthetician, on the other hand, is a professional that specializes in skincare, but not in hair care. They are trained in the science of skin, its structure, and other skin-related needs. Therefore, an aesthetician is only able to provide skin treatments or do facials as part of their job.

The main difference between the two is the area of practice. A cosmetologist offers a broader spectrum of beauty treatments, which could include facials and skincare. An aesthetician is a specialist who is only trained in the methods and techniques required to treat skin.

2) Skin Conditions and Disorders

The main difference between a cosmetologist and an aesthetician comes from their training. Estheticians are trained to provide treatment for a variety of skin conditions or skin disorders. Whether it is the most common skin problem or something much rarer, estheticians are trained to provide the best treatments for those specific skin problems.

A cosmetologist, on the other hand, is trained in the methods and techniques to improve the looks of the skin. While a cosmetologist is trained to treat a variety of skin problems, they will also have knowledge of the industry’s most popular treatments as well as what skin problems are most common.

3) Hair

Estheticians are only trained to provide facial treatments and skincare. Therefore, they are not trained to provide any type of hair care, nor are they able to do haircuts or color.

Cosmetologists are not only trained to provide facial treatments but also hair care. This means that they are able to cut hair, color hair, and provide any type of hair treatment.

4) Licensure

One of the main differences between a cosmetologist and an esthetician comes from the state licensure requirements. Estheticians generally do not require a state-issued license to practice the profession.

Cosmetologist, on the other hand, requires a state-issued license before they are able to practice. Each state has different requirements, but they will generally require at least a cosmetologist certificate which includes a minimum amount of training hours and education.

5) Nails

Both cosmetologists and estheticians are able to provide nail care. This means that they are able to do manicures, pedicures, and other types of nail care.

Different states have different licensure requirements. In some states, a license is required to provide nail care, while in other states, a license is required to cut, color, or treat hair.

Conclusion

There are many differences between the two, but they are both able to provide general skincare treatments and skincare. What makes them different is the amount of training and area of practice.

If you are interested in learning more about what it means to be an esthetician, learn advanced aesthetics at the Northern Colorado Advanced Aesthetics Academy. We aim to help you prepare and train properly for your career ahead. Get in touch with us today to learn more.