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

Clown

Clown

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
3.4 / 5

A clown uses humor and physical comedy to entertain audiences.

Fire Breather

Fire Breather

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

A fire breather is a skilled performer who incorporates fire into their act, either by exhaling a spray of fuel over an open flame to create a controlled burst of fire (fire breathing), or by extinguishing a flame by placing it into their mouth or swallowing it (fire eating).

Trapeze Artist

Trapeze Artist

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

A trapeze artist specializes in aerial acrobatics using a trapeze.

Stilt Walker

Stilt Walker

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

A stilt walker is a performer who walks on stilts, which are long poles or pegs that elevate the person's height above the ground.

Circus Animal Trainer

Circus Animal Trainer

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

A circus animal trainer specializes in training and working with animals for performances in circuses.

Circus Performer

Circus Performer

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
3.9 / 5

A circus performer is an entertainer who showcases their skills and talents in various acts within a circus setting.

Aerialist

Aerialist

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

An aerialist specializes in aerial arts, which involve performing acrobatic maneuvers and poses while suspended in the air using various apparatuses.

Ventriloquist

Ventriloquist

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

A ventriloquist has the ability to make it appear as though an inanimate object or puppet is speaking.

Contortionist

Contortionist

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

A contortionist is a highly skilled performer who possesses exceptional flexibility and body control.

Magician

Magician

Your Match?
Avg Salary
??
Growth
??
Satisfaction
4.2 / 5

A magician uses tricks and illusions to create a sense of wonder and awe in their audience.

Tightrope Walker

Tightrope Walker

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

A tightrope walker specializes in the art of walking or performing acrobatic feats on a suspended rope or wire, often referred to as a tightrope or high wire.

Acrobat

Acrobat

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

An acrobat specializes in executing a variety of intricate and awe-inspiring physical feats and movements.

Juggler

Juggler

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

A juggler manipulates objects, typically balls, clubs, rings, or other props, in a visually captivating and coordinated manner.