How Do Beauticians and Cosmetologists Differ?

Aesthetics is known as one’s standard of beauty regardless of the time or place. Simply put, it is one’s “taste” concerning art. And for decades, the concept of beauty has evolved along with the trends. 

From Europe’s hourglass figure to Japan’s geisha, beauty has constantly changed over time and with its region. Not to mention that the concept of beauty started tons of centuries ago.

For example, in ancient Greece, their lipsticks consisted of red dye, sheep sweat, and crocodile droppings? Just imagine the hazards of putting excrement on your face. Meanwhile, the Egyptians used crushed bugs for their lipstick. The red cosmetic was also a status symbol signifying one’s social rank.

As for the question of eyeliner, Kohl was used in the Persian Empire. You can create it by grinding stibnite. The powder can be used in the same way coal is used for mascara. Kohl is also used for contours and eyeshadow. However, it’s become a questionable practice due to potential lead poisoning.

The idea of beauty has always been there. Today, beauticians, estheticians, and cosmetologists have always upheld the various aesthetics in different countries. However, they were called by different names. What makes them very special in contemporary times is the training they receive. 

Cosmetics are now scientifically studied to ensure human safety. And that knowledge is imparted to aspiring students. Because the job requires human interaction, the requirements are strict. There’s a proper course and licensure you need to undergo to become a professional cosmetologist.

We’ve mentioned beauticians, estheticians, and cosmetologists. But how exactly do they differ?

What is Cosmetology?

Cosmetology is defined as the study and application of cosmetics or beauty products for hair, skin, and nails. The ones with the professional skills to apply those products are the cosmetologists. They’re responsible for making their clients beautiful by using techniques for hairstyling, makeup, and nail art.

They provide various beauty services that include but are not limited to haircuts, hair styling, and coloring. They can analyze your skin, hair, and scalp to recommend a beauty treatment. If needed, they’ll provide facial treatments or nail care. The nail care they provide can be in the form of manicures, pedicures, and acrylics. 

Cosmetologists have also been trained to manage their bills and electronic records. Another important task of theirs is to clean and disinfect their tools and work area. This is because hygiene is a strict requirement for proper care.

Being a cosmetologist requires passing a series of exams and getting a license. This is why answering an effective cosmetology practice test is important to prepare for them.

Main Branches of Cosmetology

1. Hair Care

There are different hair cutting techniques, like bobs, updos, and fades. Cosmetologists are the ones who are applying the knowledge of those techniques. They’re also responsible for styling, dyeing, and texturizing your hair. Do you need to know how to take care of wavy hair? Ask away!

You’ve heard of flat irons, curlers, clippers, and trimmers. Cosmetologists also learn how to use them.

Regular haircuts are an important part of hygiene because they prevent hair damage, and split ends. You can even have them put extensions, braid, or perm your hair. Applying chemical textures is all part of their training. 

Go ahead and ask them for some hair care tips!

2. Make-up

Cosmetologists are trained on how to do proper makeup techniques. Is it for a wedding? They got you. Do you have a runway or a photoshoot? Give them a call! It’s all right even if the make-up you need is just for your daily routine.

Cosmetologists are professionals at applying foundation, eyeliner, mascara, and many more. You’ll definitely see an improvement in your facial features. This can enhance your confidence. And you’ll notice the beautification of both body and soul!

3. Nail Care

Cosmetologists were taught how to give manicures and pedicures. This is to keep their clients’ nails strong, healthy, and beautiful. They learn about the nail’s structures and growth. This training includes knowing about the different nail disorders and diseases.

After their studies and training, they’ll be providing you with salon-grade nail care and art!

What are Beauticians?

In this section, let’s answer how beauticians differ from cosmetologists. Firstly, let’s define what they are. 

Beauticians are a more specialized breed of cosmetologists. Unlike cosmetologists who learn about the various treatments for all hair, nails, and skin, beauticians only focus on one.

Beauticians may also specialize in hair care, treatment, and skincare. They attend a beauty vocational college to acquire the necessary certification and license for the job.

Does this mean cosmetologists are beauticians? Yes, they are. But beauticians are not cosmetologists. A cosmetologist will be able to legally treat your nails while a beautician who’s trained in skincare cannot.

What is an Esthetician?

Earlier in the introduction, I kept mentioning the term “esthetician”. An esthetician practices Esthiology which is the study of skincare. Their training includes learning about facials, skin treatments, and waxing for hair removal. They can also specialize in microdermabrasion, permanent makeup, and chemical resurfacing.

Estheticians provide skincare services for their clients. This helps make their skin beautiful and healthy. However, esthiology isn’t the same as dermatology. Dermatology is a medical field on skin health and requires many years of college-level education. Meanwhile, esthiology is a cosmetic field.

Estheticians only specialize in skincare while cosmetologists have a wider scope of skills. This means even estheticians can’t do your nails as cosmetologists can. But cosmetologists can recommend skincare routines like an esthetician.

Conclusion

The concept of beauty is no longer limited to outward appearance alone. Health has become a valid concern. For example, while the hourglass figure was deemed beautiful, corsets were found to be dangerous to women. This is because of how it compressed their abdominal organs.

The long-term use of corsets caused women’s ribcages to be deformed. Hence, it has become an obsolete form of beauty.

Nowadays, cosmetologists, beauticians, and estheticians are all trained to beautify clients. This is done while keeping their clients’ health in mind. They undergo months of training in vocational schools until they’re certified and licensed to treat you.

Beauty shouldn’t endanger your health. They now come hand-in-hand. And by being beautiful and healthy, you can be more confident!