Have you ever considered starting a career in skincare, beauty and wellness? Do you enjoy working with people and helping them transform into the best version of themselves? Do you want to get a high-paying job that provides independence, flexibility and creative freedom? If your answer is “yes”, then a career in esthetics could be the perfect fit for you! In this blog post we are going to explain everything you need to know on how to become an esthetician. Let’s get started!
First Things First: What Does an Esthetician Do?
Before we dive into the technicalities, let’s talk about what this exciting career is all about. As a licensed beauty professional, an esthetician specifically specializes in services related to skin health and cosmetic treatments.
An esthetician may work in spas, salons, medical clinics, luxury resorts, advanced cosmetology studios and more. Your daily work as an esthetician typically includes:
▪️ Performing facials and other specialized skin treatments
▪️ Analyzing and recommending skincare products to clients
▪️ Performing hair removal procedures like waxing or sugaring
▪️ Applying makeup for special occasions, events or photoshoots
▪️ Offering advanced skin therapies, such as chemical peels and microdermabrasion
The world of esthetics combines both creativity and science. So, if you’ve always had a passion for beauty and you want to acquire specialized skills, going for an esthetics program is a guaranteed path towards learning the necessary techniques you need to excel in your job.
Do You Need an Esthetician License in Illinois?
Absolutely! If you want to work as an esthetician in Illinois, a state-issued esthetician license is legally required.
The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) governs this license. This certification sets a high standard of quality in the industry, ensuring that only well-trained, qualified candidates enter the profession.
So, you mustn’t think of your license as just a simple legal formality. Your esthetician license in Illinois is proof of your hard work. It shows that you’ve gained the necessary knowledge, skills and experience to provide safe, reliable and effective services to your future clients.
Esthetician Licensing Requirements
The next obvious question is: “what are Illinois’s licensing requirements?”. Here’s what the basic requirements include:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Complete 750 hours of professional esthetician training at a licensed school
Once you’ve completed your training, you’ll be all set to apply for your esthetician license.
At Cosmetology & Spa Academy we help our students throughout their whole journey. After graduating from our esthetics school, our team will guide you through all the necessary steps to start your new career as a professional Illinois esthetician.
Is Attending Cosmetology School Really Necessary?
Attending a reliable cosmetology school is more than just a requirement for getting your license. It’s an investment in your future and your professional growth and development. Attending a cosmetology school and completing specialized esthetics training gives you the theoretical knowledge, hands-on experience and mentorship you need to succeed in this industry.
At Cosmetology & Spa Academy you will be able to undergo comprehensive training, and during your time here you will:
✔️ Practice on real clients under professional supervision
✔️ Get feedback from our seasoned instructors
✔️ Master both the technical and soft skills employers in the beauty industry value
✔️ Build a portfolio that will open doors for you in salons, spas, and medical offices
How Long Does It Take to Become an Esthetician?
One of the most common questions people ask when researching how to become an esthetician is: “how long will it take?” In Illinois, you will need to complete a 750-hour esthetics program. The good news? You can complete your training in as little as six months if you choose to study full time.
However, if you’re trying to balance other commitments, we offer part-time esthetics programs or evening classes that will allow you to pace your education while still staying on track.
At Cosmetology & Spa Academy, we have carefully designed our curriculum to match Illinois’ licensing requirements. So rest assured that you will be able to focus on your learning without worrying about missing any important milestones.
What Happens After You Get Licensed?
Earning your esthetician license in Illinois is a vital step in beginning your career. But keep in mind that the beauty industry is always evolving. For that reason, staying ahead means continuing your education and upgrading your skills.
In Illinois, estheticians must renew their license every two years, completing 10 hours of continuing education. This ensures that you stay updated on:
▪️ New skincare technologies
▪️ Industry best practices
▪️ Health and safety regulations
▪️ Advanced treatment techniques
At Cosmetology & Spa Academy, we’ll always encourage and support your professional growth long after you graduate, so don’t hesitate to contact our team if you need any help with post-graduation licensing procedures.
Why Choose Our Esthetics Program?
Choosing the right esthetics program can make the difference between landing an ordinary job and launching an extraordinary career. At Cosmetology & Spa Academy, our esthetician training program is designed to help aspiring estheticians take the right steps in starting a fulfilling career.
Our program covers every aspect of esthetics, ensuring you become a highly-qualified beauty professional. During your time here, you will learn about:
▪️ Client consultation and skin analysis
▪️ Cleansing, exfoliation and extraction techniques
▪️ Mask treatments and moisturizing protocols
▪️ Hair removal, waxing and brow shaping
▪️ Makeup application fundamentals
▪️ Using science to formulate advanced chemical peels
▪️ Business practices and ethics for this industry
With over 30 years of training future beauty professionals, we ensure that our graduates are fully prepared not only to meet the licensing requirements in Illinois but also to stand out from their competitors in the beauty industry.
Contact us if you’re ready to enroll in your esthetics program and benefit from:
✔️ A culture of inclusiveness, creativity and fun
✔️ Industry-experienced instructors
✔️ Modern campuses equipped with everything you need
✔️ Career placement assistance for graduates
We don’t just train you for your first job. We prepare you for your future. Have any other questions?
📧 Email us at info@csa.edu
📞 Call us at 815-455-5900
Or schedule your personal campus tour today and meet your future instructors and classmates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does esthetician school cost in Illinois?
The cost of esthetician school in Illinois can vary depending on the school you choose, the length of the program and whether you are eligible for financial aid or scholarships. If you want to figure out the exact cost for you, contact our admission team and we’ll provide a custom quote.
How much does an esthetician make in Illinois?
The average salary for an esthetician in Illinois depends on location, experience and whether you work in a spa or as a freelancer. According to the most recent data, the average salary for an esthetician in Illinois is $25.85 per hour. Top earners, especially those who specialize in advanced treatments or medical aesthetics make up to $60,000 per year or more. Tips and commissions can also add significantly to your income, so keep that mind.
What’s the difference between an esthetician and an aesthetician?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s actually a slight difference. An esthetician usually focuses on skincare services such as facials, hair removal, exfoliation and makeup application. These services are usually offered in salons and spas.
An aesthetician, a term which is sometimes spelled this way in medical settings, often refers to someone who works in a clinical or medical environment. Aestheticians usually assist with pre- and post-operative skincare. They offer advanced treatments like chemical peels and often work alongside dermatologists or cosmetic surgeons.
How long does it take to become a licensed esthetician in Illinois?
The length of time depends on whether you attend school full-time or part-time. A full-time student can usually complete the required 750 training hours in around 6 to 9 months. Part-time students often take around 12 months to finish the program. Once your training is complete, you’ll also need to pass the state licensing exam before you can officially begin your career.
Do estheticians need continuing education in Illinois?
Yes! In Illinois, estheticians are required to complete 10 hours of continuing education (CE) every two years in order to renew their license. This ensures that professionals stay updated on the latest techniques, safety practices and skincare trends.
Many estheticians actually choose to go beyond the minimum CE requirement to specialize in advanced treatments. The more you know, the better it is for your career, credibility and clientele!
Is financial aid available for esthetician school in Illinois?
Our esthetician school in Illinois offers financial aid for qualifying students. If you want to learn whether you are eligible for financial aid, contact our team to explore your options.
