What does a beauty therapist do?
A beauty therapist will carry out cosmetic services and beauty treatments, usually in salons, spas and resorts.
Typically, a beauty therapist will specialise in certain areas, but in general, their day-to-day duties might include:
- Carrying out consultations with their customers to get an idea of what they want from their treatments
- Keeping on top of admin, such as booking appointments, keeping records of their client’s treatment programmes and ordering stock
- Specialist facials
- Massages
- Hair removal – either via waxing, threading, laser or IPL (Intense Pulse Light) treatments
- Manicures and pedicures
- Nail extensions/nail art
- Spray tans
As a customer facing role, it’s vital that a beauty therapist has excellent communication and social skills, as well as being a good listener with a friendly manner.
How do I become a beauty therapist?
You will need to gain some sort of qualifications to become a beauty therapist, whether this is via a college course or an apprenticeship.
With college courses, you’ll need to study for a Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Beauty Therapy, or a T Level in Hair, Beauty and Aesthetics. This will usually involve a mix of classroom and practical training, with some courses requiring an internship.
The length of time it takes to qualify will all depend on the area you wish to get in to.
The apprenticeship route allows you to learn on the job and develop more experience. Most businesses will want you to have certain GCSEs to qualify for an apprenticeship.
Benefits of becoming a freelance beauty therapist
Many beauty therapists decide to go it alone and become their own boss once they have gained the relevant experience and skills.
Freedom and flexibility are the main driver for many people becoming self-employed, as you can choose the hours and days that you want to work, and, depending on the area you specialise in, you can choose to either travel to your customers or have them come to you.
There are also the financial benefits to consider, with many freelancers able to charge higher rates of pay than their permanent counterparts, plus you’ll be entitled to claim back on expenses made for the running of your business which will reduce your tax bill at the end of each year. Read our Limited Company Expenses Guide for more advice on this.
For more information on why so many people choose to join the self-employed sector, read our Benefits of Contracting page.
We hope you’ve found this page useful. If you need any further information, please call one of our friendly experts on 01442 795 100 or email jaime.thorpe@dolanaccountancy.com. Alternatively, contact us via live chat.
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