Esthetician

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In Quebec? Adds 2 screens at the end of this part.

Education · 1 of 4

The path

A program of a few months to a year, then a licence in the provinces that require one.

  1. 1

    High school diploma

    Grade 12

    Grade 12. Some high schools offer cosmetology with a working salon.

  2. 2

    Esthetics program

    6 to 12 months

    Private schools like Blanche Macdonald in Vancouver, or a public college certificate. Programs cover skin science, facials, waxing, manicures, pedicures, makeup and sanitation.

  3. 3

    Licence or trade certificate, where required

    Weeks

    Nova Scotia and New Brunswick license estheticians through their cosmetology associations. Manitoba runs esthetics as a compulsory apprenticeship trade. Saskatchewan has voluntary Esthetician trades. Ontario, BC (British Columbia), Alberta, Quebec and the other provinces and territories have no licence, though Quebec offers a voluntary certificate of qualification.

  4. 4

    First job and a book of clients

    1 to 3 years

    Spa or salon on base plus commission. Building regulars takes 1 to 3 years.

  5. 5

    Specialize

    Ongoing

    Lashes, brows, laser, or medical esthetics in a clinic. Each is a short extra course.