Training in aesthetic medicine seems to be a good option, but many people are not certain of what will come next. New aestheticians are more confused whether they are going to work first in an established clinic or set up their own aesthetics practice right away.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, skincare industry is expected to grow by 25% until 2020, which is considered faster compared to any other occupation. Thus, business in aesthetics can be a lucrative and personally rewarding venture. However, it will take more than passion and love for the profession because it will require several things in order to establish your own aesthetics practice.
Here are 5 basic requirements that can help you out as you get started in this business.
Professional Training
In order to become skilled in skincare treatments, including waxing, lash tinting, and facials, you will need a license for aesthetics or cosmetology. Likewise, if you want to become specialized in providing medical aesthetics services, such as extractions, laser treatments, and microdermabrasion, you will be required to take specialized training in each of these services that you are planning to offer on top of the cosmetology/ aesthetics license.
Some programs for cosmetology can be covered by the Federal student financial aid. This will help you to get subsidized loans or grants to help you pay for the training. Cost for aesthetics programs can vary on each state as it will need various training hours as well as knowledge in the specific topics.
Professional Licenses
Basically, it is very important to have a license if you want to be an aesthetics business owner. This will be acquired from the cosmetology board of the state that you are residing. This is with the exception of Connecticut, which is the only state in the U.S. that doesn’t require aestheticians and skincare specialists to have a particular license.
Thus, you will need to comply with the state-approved cosmetology program, testing fee, written and practical exams, and licensing fees. Being a medical aesthetician will require you to register with the board of medicine in some states.
Business Permit
In a business like this, you will need general permits and licenses. Despite the fact that you are going to offer services and not some products out there, majority of states will require businesses like this to be under proper business documentation and tax collection.
So, if you want to keep the initial costs of your business, it is advisable to start small and work as a sole proprietor. Thus, you will be required to submit an assumed name certificate and a sales tax permit. This is on the condition if your locality will require you to collect some taxes on your spa and skincare services.
Additionally, you can add and incorporate independent contractors or employees to your business as time progresses. However, it will cost you some money, such as a few hundred dollars or more.
Setting Up the Business
Prior to buying any equipment or renting a location for your aesthetics business, you need to select a specialization in skincare. Some of the niches that you can specialize in aesthetics business will include all-natural or organic aesthetics, mobile spa treatments, holistic skincare, and luxury skincare services.
You can have your home as your venue, if your state allows it. The name, service menu, pricing, and décor of your aesthetic business must be selected with the niche you have in mind. For instance, if you are planning to start a spa that should focus on organic treatments, several items such as plastic mini-blinds, towels made of synthetic fibers, and artificially scented candles would be out of place. For this reason, you must employ beeswax or naturally scented soy candles, towels made of organic cotton, and bamboo window shades.
Marketing Strategy
Marketing is key to make your aesthetics business known to your potential customers. So, the moment you are ready to launch your business venture, it is important to use as many techniques or strategies as possible. This will help you reach out and get the most number of potential clients out there.
Essentially, you should create a website that would help you make your presence known to all. In fact, you can begin by having a page on popular social media networks, such as Facebook or Twitter. Thus, you can have an online scheduling that you can integrate into this website. This will surely run promotions for your prospective clients and add convenience for your existing customers.
Alternatively, you can sponsor events that should be able to provide information in your locality regarding your aesthetics business, which will also build goodwill within your community. Basically, you can consider marathons or charity walks that you can sponsor and eventually get your business recognized via word-of-mouth advertising.
