Top 11 Beautician Certifications

Certifications are essential for any beautician looking to enter the job market. Having a certification shows potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform certain beauty treatments. It also establishes credibility and trust with clients, as they know that you have undergone the necessary training to be able to provide them with quality services. Additionally, some salons may require certifications in specific areas or techniques before they hire a beautician, so having a certification can help you stand out among other applicants. Finally, certifications may give you access to better job opportunities and higher salaries than those without them.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for beauticians and explain how they can enhance a beautician's career.

What are Beautician Certifications?

Beautician certification is a type of professional training and certification program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful beautician. The courses typically cover topics such as skin care, makeup application, hair styling, manicures/pedicures, facial treatments, waxing services, and other beauty treatments. Through these courses, students learn how to properly use the tools and products needed to provide quality services to their clients.

Having a beautician certification can be beneficial in many ways. For starters, it makes you more attractive to employers who are looking for qualified staff members. It also gives you an edge over other applicants who may not have formal training in beauty services. Additionally, having a beautician certification can give you access to job opportunities that only certified professionals can apply for. Finally, having the certification shows potential clients that you are knowledgeable about the industry and have the skills necessary for offering quality services.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the state requirements for beautician certification before enrolling in a program. Different states have different regulations, so it’s important to know what you need to do to become certified in your area. Additionally, some certifications may require additional courses or exams, so make sure to double-check before signing up.

Related: What does a Beautician do?

Top 11 Beautician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Beauticians today.

1. National Cosmetology Association (NCA) Certification

The National Cosmetology Association (NCA) Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the professional excellence of cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians, and salon/spa owners. It is designed to demonstrate the highest level of expertise and professionalism in the beauty industry.

To obtain NCA Certification, applicants must have a current state license in their specialty and complete an approved course of study. The course typically takes between 4-6 months to complete and covers topics such as safety protocols, product knowledge, customer service skills, business management principles, and more.

Once the course is completed, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the NCA. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering all areas of cosmetology. Applicants must score at least 80% on the exam in order to pass it and receive their certification.

The cost for obtaining NCA Certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought. For example, an Esthetician Certification costs $225 while a Salon/Spa Owner Certification costs $325. In addition to this fee, there may be additional fees associated with taking the written exam or completing other requirements necessary for certification.

2. International Nail Technicians Association (INTA) Certification

The International Nail Technicians Association (INTA) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes nail technicians who have achieved excellence in their field. The certification is designed to demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and skill in the nail care industry.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as sanitation and safety, product knowledge, anatomy and physiology, and nail artistry. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the INTA Certification exam, applicants must have at least 500 hours of supervised experience as a nail technician or hold a valid license from their state board of cosmetology. Applicants must also submit proof of completion of an approved INTA course or training program.

The cost for the INTA Certification exam is $150 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive an official certificate from INTA recognizing their achievement.

3. American Electrology Association (AEA) Certification

The American Electrology Association (AEA) is the leading certifying body for electrologists in the United States. AEA certification is a voluntary process that demonstrates an electrologist has met certain standards of knowledge and skill in the field of permanent hair removal.

To become certified, an individual must complete a minimum of 300 hours of approved training, pass a written and practical exam, and agree to abide by the AEA’s Code of Ethics. The entire process typically takes between one and two years to complete.

The first step to becoming certified is finding an accredited school or program that offers AEA-approved training. These programs can be found online or at local beauty schools or colleges. Once enrolled in a program, students must complete all coursework and clinical requirements before they can take the certification exam.

Once all requirements are met, applicants must submit an application packet with their transcripts, proof of completion of the required courses and clinical hours, and payment for the certification fee (currently $200). Upon approval from the AEA Board of Directors, applicants will receive their certificate and be listed on the AEA website as a Certified Electrologist.

The cost for AEA Certification varies depending on each individual's situation but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 including tuition fees for approved training programs as well as the certification fee itself.

4. American Board of Certified Haircolorists (ABCH) Certification

The American Board of Certified Haircolorists (ABCH) Certification is a professional certification program for hair colorists. It is designed to recognize and reward excellence in the field of hair coloring. The ABCH certification requires a comprehensive knowledge of hair color theory, application techniques, safety protocols, and product knowledge.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers all aspects of hair coloring. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions as well as practical demonstrations. Applicants must also complete a portfolio that includes photographs and written descriptions of their work.

The process typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on the applicant's experience level and preparation for the exam. To get started, applicants must register with the ABCH and pay an application fee. They will then receive study materials and access to online resources to help them prepare for the exam.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on whether you choose to take the online or in-person version of the exam. The online version costs $150 while the in-person version costs $350 plus travel expenses if applicable.

5. Professional Beauty Association (PBA) Certification

The Professional Beauty Association (PBA) Certification program is a voluntary professional certification that recognizes beauty professionals who have demonstrated their commitment to the beauty industry by meeting and maintaining PBA's standards of excellence. The program provides assurance to employers, clients, and consumers that those certified are knowledgeable and experienced in the beauty industry.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the certification process. To get PBA certified, you must first join PBA and pay an annual membership fee. Then you must pass a written exam that covers topics such as business ethics, safety and sanitation, product knowledge, service techniques, anatomy/physiology, chemistry, electricity/light therapy/equipment use, customer service skills, communication skills, infection control procedures and state laws governing the practice of cosmetology.

The cost for PBA Certification varies depending on your membership level with PBA. It ranges from $50 for Student Members to $150 for Professional Members.

6. National Aesthetic Spa Network (NASN) Certification

The National Aesthetic Spa Network (NASN) Certification is a credential that recognizes professionals in the aesthetic spa industry who have demonstrated expertise and knowledge in the field. It is designed to provide assurance to clients that they are receiving services from a qualified professional.

To obtain NASN Certification, applicants must complete an online application and submit documentation of their education, experience, and training. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam covering topics such as anatomy, physiology, skin care treatments, product knowledge, safety protocols, and business practices. The entire process typically takes two to three months to complete.

The cost of obtaining NASN Certification varies depending on the applicant’s background and experience level. Generally speaking, the fee ranges from $250-$500 USD. Additionally, applicants may be required to pay for additional materials such as textbooks or study guides.

7. International Dermal Institute (IDI) Certification

The International Dermal Institute (IDI) is a professional training organization that offers certification programs for skin care professionals. IDI certification is the gold standard in the industry and helps skin care professionals stay up to date on the latest trends and techniques.

To get certified, students must complete a series of courses, which vary depending on the type of certification desired. The most popular certifications offered by IDI are its Esthetician Certification, Master Esthetician Certification, and Advanced Skin Care Certification. Each program requires a certain number of hours of instruction and hands-on practice.

The cost of each program varies depending on the type of certification desired, but typically ranges from $500 to $3,000.

In order to get certified by IDI, students must first complete an application form and submit it along with proof of educational background in skin care or cosmetology. Once approved, students can begin their coursework. Depending on the program chosen and other factors such as prior experience or education level, it may take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete all requirements for certification.

Once all requirements have been met, students must pass an exam administered by IDI in order to become certified. Upon successful completion of this exam, they will receive their official certificate from IDI confirming their status as a certified skin care professional.

8. Esthetician License from State Board of Cosmetology

A Esthetician License from the State Board of Cosmetology is a professional license that allows an individual to practice esthetics in their state. Estheticians are trained and certified professionals who specialize in skin care, including facials, waxing, makeup application, and other treatments.

In order to receive an Esthetician License from the State Board of Cosmetology, individuals must complete a minimum number of educational hours in esthetics as well as pass both a written and practical exam. The exact requirements vary by state but typically range from 600-1000 hours of training. It can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete the necessary training and obtain a license depending on the individual's schedule and availability.

To get an Esthetician License from the State Board of Cosmetology, individuals must first complete their required educational hours at a licensed school or program. Once they have completed their education, they must then apply for licensure with the state board by submitting all necessary paperwork and fees. Once approved, they will be issued their license which is valid for two years before needing to be renewed.

The cost of obtaining an Esthetician License from the State Board of Cosmetology varies by state but typically ranges between $100-$400 depending on the fees associated with taking the exams and applying for licensure.

9. Makeup Artist Certificate from a Professional Makeup School

A Makeup Artist Certificate from a Professional Makeup School is a certification that proves you have completed an accredited makeup artist program. It is a valuable credential for those looking to pursue a career in the beauty industry. The certificate typically takes between one and two years to obtain, depending on the school and program chosen. To get the certificate, you must complete courses in makeup artistry, skin care, product knowledge, color theory, sanitation and safety protocols, and business practices. You may also need to pass an exam or complete an internship with a professional makeup artist. The cost of obtaining a Makeup Artist Certificate varies depending on the school and program chosen; however, it typically ranges from $2,000-$5,000 USD.

10. Laser Hair Removal Technician Certificate

A Laser Hair Removal Technician Certificate is a certification that allows individuals to perform laser hair removal treatments. This certificate is typically obtained through an accredited school or program, and it requires the completion of a course that covers topics such as safety protocols, laser physics, skin anatomy, laser hair removal techniques and more. The length of the course varies depending on the program but can range from several weeks to several months.

In order to get a Laser Hair Removal Technician Certificate, students must complete an approved program and pass all required exams. Most programs also require students to have completed some form of medical training prior to enrolling in the course. Once all requirements are met, students can apply for their certificate through their chosen school or program.

The cost of a Laser Hair Removal Technician Certificate will vary depending on the school or program chosen. However, most programs cost between $2,000 and $4,000 USD.

11. Master Esthetician Certificate

A Master Esthetician Certificate is a professional certification that recognizes the advanced knowledge and skill of estheticians. It is awarded by the National Coalition of Estheticians, Manufacturers/Distributors & Associations (NCEA).

To earn a Master Esthetician Certificate, an individual must complete a minimum of 600 hours of education in an accredited school or program. This includes courses in skin care, facial treatments, body treatments, hair removal techniques, makeup application and business management. Upon completion of the educational requirements, the student must pass a written and practical exam administered by NCEA to become certified.

The cost for completing a Master Esthetician program varies depending on the school or program chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $3,000 to $15,000 or more. In addition to tuition costs, students should also plan for additional expenses such as books and supplies.

Once certified as a Master Esthetician, individuals are eligible to apply for licensure in their state or province if required by law. Licensure may require additional education and testing beyond what is required for certification.

Do You Really Need a Beautician Certificate?

Beautician certificates can be a great way to demonstrate that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a beautician. However, they are not always necessary for becoming a licensed beautician or getting hired by a salon. Many salons will hire someone with the right experience and qualifications without requiring them to have a certificate.

In some states, having a beautician certificate is required in order to become licensed as a professional beautician. So if you want to start your own business or work in certain states, it’s important to research the requirements in your area before investing in any training or certification.

Even if you don’t need one for licensure purposes, having a beautician certificate can still be beneficial because it shows potential employers that you are serious about your career and have taken the time and effort to learn the techniques needed for success. In addition, many employers look favorably upon those who have completed additional certifications because it demonstrates that they are committed to their profession and willing to go the extra mile.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a beautician certificate depends on where you live and what type of job you plan on pursuing. It’s important to do your research beforehand so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not this type of certification is right for you.

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FAQs About Beautician Certifications

1. What are the requirements for a beautician certification?

Answer: Generally, the requirements for a beautician certification include completing an accredited cosmetology program, passing a state licensing exam, and meeting any additional state-specific requirements.

2. How long does it take to get a beautician certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get a beautician certification depends on the individual, but typically it takes anywhere from 9 months to 2 years.

3. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining a beautician certification?

Answer: Yes, most states require that licensed cosmetologists complete continuing education courses in order to maintain their license and stay up to date with industry trends and techniques.

4. What type of jobs can I get with a beautician certification?

Answer: With a beautician certification, you can pursue various positions such as hairstylist, barber, makeup artist, skin care specialist, nail technician or salon manager.

5. Is there an age requirement for getting a beautician certification?

Answer: Most states have minimum age requirements for obtaining a cosmetology license; these usually range from 16-18 years old depending on the state.