How to become a beauty therapist in Australia: careers in beauty therapy
Beauty therapists consult with clients on the ways they can improve aspects of their appearance such as hair, skin and nails. They perform treatments including facials, waxing, tanning, application of makeup, manicures and hair grooming. Beauty therapists also give advice on cosmetics and skin care products. They work with a range of products including lotions, balms, waxes, creams and gels and may also need to work with specialist equipment.
Beauty therapists carry out a range of therapeutic facial and body care treatments to improve the appearance and well-being of their clients. They can apply and sell makeup, skincare and other cosmetic products. They treat and advise on skin conditions and provide beauty treatments such as electrolysis, massage, facials, manicures, pedicures, spa therapy and waxing. There can also be an administrative aspect to their role and they may have to keep records of client treatments.
Beauty therapists need to be passionate about personal care. They must be discrete and non-judgmental as they will be helping to treat clients with cosmetic issues that can cause self-esteem issues. Good social skills and the ability to make others feel comfortable and confident is also required. Beauty therapists should also have good communication and listening skills so they can understand what their clients want and be able to deliver on their expectations. A sound understanding of a range of beauty treatments is essential.
Beauty therapists can often specialise in certain types of therapies such as massage, spa treatments or makeup. There are many avenues for beauty therapists to specialise in and progress professionally.
Massage therapist
The massage skills gained working in a spa environment can be built upon to become a remedial massage therapist. They work in similar environments to beauty therapists and help people relax and feel comfortable.
Hairdresser
Hairdressers cut and style hair, apply hair treatments and colours, and like beauty therapists are passionate about helping others with their appearance.
Make-up artist
Make-up artists may work with individuals for events such as weddings and formal occasions, fashion shows, or film and television sets.
To work as a beauty therapist in Australia, you need to compete a tertiary level course in beauty therapy. This will allow you to work in a salon or operate your own business as a private beauty therapist.
Start your career
Enrol in a course that will allow you to foster your goals and follow your love for makeup and beauty.
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your beauty therapy career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to the job description listed.
Classrooms are fast becoming a thing of the past, and digital technologies are transforming the teaching of more 'hands on' courses. Now you can receive beauty therapy training online!
Our endless pursuit of health and wellbeing has reached epic proportions, with people pouring unprecedented sums of money into the ‘wellness’ industry – everything from acupuncture to personal training, pedicures and life coaching.
Kimberley Neall - Ella Baché Salon Owner & Skincare Therapist
Susan Markovic - Makeup Artist & Educator
Sammy Gunner - Beauty Therapist & Supervisor at Q1 Spa
Accredited courses from leading Australian universities, TAFEs and colleges
