Esthetician vs Cosmetologist

Would you make a good esthetician or cosmetologist? Take our career test and find your match with over 800 careers.

Take the free career test Learn more about the career test

Estheticians and cosmetologists are both licensed professionals in the beauty industry, but they have different areas of expertise and focus in their practice.

Estheticians specialize in skincare treatments and focus on improving and maintaining the health and appearance of the skin. They are trained to perform a variety of skincare services, including facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, waxing, and body treatments. Estheticians assess clients' skin types, concerns, and goals to develop personalized treatment plans and provide expert advice on proper skincare practices and homecare routines. Their work often involves addressing specific skincare issues such as acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, or sensitivity, using professional-grade products and techniques to achieve optimal results.

On the other hand, cosmetologists specialize in hair care, makeup application, and nail care services. They are trained to cut, style, and color hair, apply makeup for various occasions, and provide manicures and pedicures. Cosmetologists may also offer additional services such as hair extensions, scalp treatments, or hair removal. While cosmetologists may have some knowledge of skincare and may offer basic facial treatments, their primary focus is on hair and nail care services.

In summary, estheticians specialize in skincare treatments, while cosmetologists focus on hair care, makeup, and nail services. Both professions require licensure and training, but they have distinct areas of expertise within the beauty industry.

Related Careers

Pastry Chef

Pastry Chef

Your Match?
Avg Wage
$29k
Growth
??
Satisfaction
3.2 / 5

A pastry chef specializes in creating a wide variety of baked goods and desserts.

Special Occasion Cake Designer

Special Occasion Cake Designer

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

A special occasion cake designer creates unique and personalized cakes for special events such as weddings, birthdays, baby showers, and corporate events.

Sugar Flower Designer

Sugar Flower Designer

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

A sugar flower designer creates intricate, realistic-looking flowers out of sugar paste or gum paste.

Chocolate Cake Designer

Chocolate Cake Designer

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

A chocolate cake designer creates unique and visually stunning chocolate cakes.

Baker

Baker

Your Match?
Avg Wage
$6k
Growth
+4.9%
Satisfaction
3.1 / 5

A baker specializes in the art and science of baking.

Executive Pastry Chef

Executive Pastry Chef

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

An executive pastry chef is a senior-level culinary professional who holds a leadership position within a restaurant, hotel, or catering establishment.

Wedding Cake Designer

Wedding Cake Designer

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

Wedding cake designers specialize in creating customized cakes for weddings.

Pastry Sous Chef

Pastry Sous Chef

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

A pastry sous chef is a key member of the pastry team in a professional kitchen, typically working under the supervision of the head pastry chef or executive pastry chef.

Pastry Chef de Partie

Pastry Chef de Partie

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

A pastry chef de partie specializes in the creation of pastries, desserts, and baked goods within a professional kitchen environment.

Sculpted Cake Designer

Sculpted Cake Designer

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

Sculpted cake designers are professional bakers who specialize in creating custom-made cakes that are sculpted and shaped to resemble various objects, characters, or scenes.

Cake Designer

Cake Designer

Your Match?
Avg Wage
$25k
Growth
??
Satisfaction
3.6 / 5

A cake designer specializes in creating custom-designed cakes for various occasions and events.

Chocolatier

Chocolatier

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
??

A chocolatier is an artisan who specializes in the creation of chocolate confections and treats.