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Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: Which Path Is Right for You?

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Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school


Understanding the Difference


If you’re thinking about a career in beauty but not sure whether to become an esthetician or a cosmetologist, you’re not alone. These two roles are often confused, but they focus on different specialties. Knowing the difference can help you pick the path that actually fits what you love to do.

If you’re still exploring career paths, you might also want to check out ‘Is Beauty School Worth It in 2025?’ — it covers the broader value of beauty education today.

Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school


What Does a Cosmetologist Do?


Cosmetologists are trained to work with hair, skin, and nails. Their training covers:

  • Hair cutting, coloring, and styling
  • Basic skincare and makeup application
  • Manicures and pedicures
  • Salon safety and sanitation

It’s a more broad-based program, which opens up different career paths — from salon work to owning your own business.

Explore the full cosmetology program.

Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school


What Does an Esthetician Do?


Estheticians focus more deeply on skincare. Their training typically includes:

  • Facials and skin treatments
  • Hair removal (like waxing or sugaring)
  • Advanced skincare machines and techniques
  • Skin analysis and treatment planning

If you’re passionate about skincare and want to help people feel confident in their own skin, this route might be a better fit.

See how esthetics training works!

Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school


Career Paths: What Can You Do With Each License?

Cosmetology License:

  • Hairstylist
  • Nail technician
  • Makeup artist
  • Salon manager or owner
Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school

Esthetics License:

  • Skincare specialist
  • Facialist or spa esthetician
  • Waxing technician
  • Medical esthetician (with additional training)
Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school

Compare career options by program.


How to Decide Which Is Right for You


Think about what excites you most. Do you love doing hair and helping clients completely transform their look? Cosmetology might be the way to go. Do you find skincare satisfying and want to work one-on-one to improve someone’s skin health? Esthetics might be a better match.

You can also talk to instructors, tour campuses, or even sit in on a class. Sometimes seeing it up close helps make the choice feel clearer.

Book a campus tour to explore both programs.

If you want a more in-depth comparison, check out our blog on ‘Esthetician vs. Cosmetologist: Which Path Is Right for You?’

Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Study Both Esthetics and Cosmetology?

Yes. Some students start with one license and go back later to earn the other. It depends on your career goals and how much time you’re willing to commit.

Which Program Is Shorter?

Esthetics programs are usually shorter than cosmetology programs. On average, esthetics takes around 600 hours, while cosmetology takes closer to 1,000–1,500 hours depending on state requirements.

Do Both Licenses Require State Exams?

Yes. No matter which path you choose, you’ll need to pass your state board exam to get licensed and start working legally.

Esthetician versus cosmetologist, empire beauty school

Still Deciding?


Schedule a tour and see what beauty school is really like.

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