Obsessed with nails, lashes and brows? Perhaps you dream of becoming a makeup artist? Whatever you aspire to be, a beauty therapy qualification could be the next step towards making this a reality

Here, we’re exploring the field of beauty therapy in detail, from its history and origins, to the type of qualifications which can lead to your dream career. Use the links below to look around or read on for the complete guide.

What is beauty therapy?

Beauty therapy relates to the provision and application, by trained beauticians, of a wide range of treatments and cosmetic techniques. Most of you have heard the famous saying that ‘beauty is in the eye of the beholder’. However, based on the steady popularity of the beauty therapy industry, it seems fair to say that everyone needs a little bit of assistance now and then.

You may well think that beauty therapy is a modern practice, but this is not the case. In fact, humans have been grooming themselves in one form or another since they first arrived on the planet – giving rise to the range of professional beauty therapy services we have today.

The concept behind beauty therapy has links with the earliest civilisations. In fact, both Ancient Greek and Egyptian civilisations carried out beauty treatments. Evidence found by archaeologists suggests the use of skin creams and oil treatments were commonplace during these eras. There is also evidence that both women and men used cosmetics during this time, including eyeliner.

woman having her makeup done header image
Cosmetic treatments continued to be prominent throughout history, although there were periods when any form of beauty regimen was considered sinful, especially during more religious eras. During those times, beauty products and procedures became secretive and hidden. The beauty therapy industry really took off in the 20th century, when the film industry gave us our first glamorous movie stars.

 Beauty therapy treatments are much more comprehensive than people often realise. This particular form of care goes beyond simple makeup and nails, although, of course, can include both. Beauty therapy treatments now include hair removal, tan application, facials, pedicures, hot stone and oil massages, eyelash extensions, and eyebrow tints.

There has also been an increase in specialist treatments, such as Botox and skin peels. Those who visit a beautician regularly will also know about the other aspects of the service, including the occasional glasses of prosecco and cakes.

What are the benefits of a beauty therapy qualification?

Have you always been interested in a career in beauty therapy? With so many different career paths available to you within the industry, you’re promised an exciting and varied working life. Here are some of the benefits you can expect after successfully completing a beauty therapy qualification:

  • Huge range of study options – whether you’re interested in hair, nails, dermatology, or spa treatments, there really is a lot to study when it comes to beauty therapy. Some people choose to take a general course which covers lots of different areas- such as our Complete Beauty Course before focusing on a specialist area later in their career – such as brow lamination.
  • Growing demand = lots of job prospects – demand for beauty treatments is only increasing, which is good news for those about to take their first steps into the industry. From spas to nail salons, there is no shortage of places to work as a trained beauty therapist and, of course, you also have the option to open your own place.
  • A people-orientated profession – if you’re a self-confessed people person, there’s no better industry to find yourself in than beauty therapy. With the promise of new clients and new faces every day, you’ll always be around people, making the job exciting and engaging.

What can you do with a beauty therapy qualification?

There are a huge range of potential career options for those with a beauty therapy qualification. And, what’s more, with new treatments and practices emerging all the time, who knows where your qualification might take you?

Here are some of the typical career options for those with a beauty therapy qualification:

  • Nail technician
  • Barber or hairdresser
  • Makeup artist
  • Massage therapist
  • Lash technician
  • Spa assistant
  • Dermatologist
  • Facial therapist
  • Manicurist
  • Aromatherapy and holistic therapy specialist

By no means an exhaustive list, we hope this gives a clear picture of the types of careers which may be open to you.

woman checking her teeth

What qualifications can I take in beauty therapy?

If you feel you have the skills to become a beautician, check out our range of distance learning beauty therapy courses..  Our Beauty Therapy Level 3 course is a great place to start; it  covers all the necessary aspects of becoming a beautician, such as health and safety protocols, skincare treatments, manicures and pedicures, waxing, makeup, and also gives guidance on how to set up and run your own beauty business.

If you wish to add to your skillset and repertoire of treatments, you can also study to be a nail technician, makeup artist or undertake a diploma in reflexology. All our courses allow you to study in your own time, at your own pace.

Who is the Right Fit for a Beauty Therapy Qualification?

If you’re a sociable person with a passion for helping people look and feel their best, a rewarding career in beauty therapy awaits. Here, we look at some of the personal attributes and traits which may make you the ideal candidate for a beauty therapy career:

  • Positive and outgoing
  • Attentive and caring personality
  • Genuine passion and love for beauty treatments
  • Commitment to quality, health, and safety
  • Proactive about learning new skills, practices and approaches
  • Strong work ethic
  • High level of professionalism

Ready to take the next steps towards your new and exciting career? Check out our range of distance learning beauty therapy courses here, or give one of our experienced course advisers a call on 0121 630 3000.