With the appropriate skills and a keen interest in fashion and what looks good, you could well be on the first step to a fabulous career in the beauty industry.

What is the beauty business about?

The beauty industry offers products, treatments and guidance for many who would like to improve their general appearance.

What are the most common jobs in Beauty?

A great deal of people inside the beauty business specialise in one field such as hairdressing, beauty therapy, tanning and nails. Beauty therapists and beauticians undertake a variety of skills and treatments such as ipl (electrical treatments for body hair), dermatology, massage therapy and aromatherapy.

Beauty jobs are carried out in establishments such as salons, spas and hotels. They are often associated with good health and well being.

Nowadays beauty also overlaps into the medical profession with many aesthetic surgery outlets. This creates job openings for aesthetic doctors, nurses and assistants. Beauty consultants are also used to work alongside these professionals.

What do I need to work in this sector?

To work within this industry you must have the skills that are necessary and relevant to your chosen area, for example - Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Nails and Make Up. Also required is an in depth knowledge, understanding and passion for the profession.

You must keep up to date with the latest trends, fashions and styles and be able to incorporate this into the solution for your client. It is vital to have good communication skills to converse well with the customer, to interpret their requests and advise on the best outcome that is right for them. Each beauty treatment or haircut must be tailor made to suit each individual taste and preference.

Within this industry there are also many opportunities to be self employed and work as your own boss. It is quite common to find hairdressers or beauty therapists that rent a room or space within an establishment such as a spa or salon. This requires extra skills in accounting and managerial aspects to keep on top of the business for smooth organisation, continued growth and profit.

There are a range of different qualifications inside hairdressing and beauty studies. They are at various levels such as apprenticeships, diplomas, NVQ’s and degrees.

Most courses are governed by organisations that keep the standard of education and skills at a professional level. This ensures all of the latest practises and techniques are incorporated and undertaken. This includes the current fashions and trends.