Beauty therapists use a range of facial and body treatments to enhance the appearance and improve the well-being of their clients. Before starting on any treatments, they must get to know and understand their clients and complete a health questionnaire with them.
Treatments carried out by beauty therapists may include:
- facials, which involve cleansing, massaging and toning the skin
- applying make-up and tanning products
- eyelash and eyebrow colouring, eyelash perming and eyebrow shaping
- manicures, pedicures and specialist treatments, such as nail extensions and nail art
- body massage and aromatherapy
- mechanical and electrical treatments to improve muscle tone and skin condition of the face and other parts of the body
- removing unwanted facial or body hair by waxing or using specialist electrical equipment
- ultraviolet (UV) and spray tanning
- hydrotherapy, flotation, steam and saunas
- facial rejuvenation and other non-surgical skin therapies.
Therapists working in a beauty salon may also be responsible for reception work, such as answering the telephone and receiving clients, booking appointments, checking and ordering supplies and keeping records of the treatment programmes of clients.
Hours and environment
Full-time beauty therapists work between 37 and 40 hours a week, which often includes evenings and weekends. There are opportunities for part-time work and flexible hours.
Individual therapies take place in treatment rooms or cubicles, which are warm, clean and private. For many treatments beauty therapists have to stand and bend over the client. If they have an allergy or a sensitive skin condition, some products may irritate their hands.
They usually wear a uniform to protect their clothes and to look clean and smart.
Salary and other benefits
These figures are only a guide, as actual rates of pay may vary depending on the employer and where people live.
- Newly qualified beauty therapists may start on around €18,000 a year.
- Therapists with a few years’ experience may earn €20,000 to €25,000 a year.
- Those who move into management or set up their own salon, could earn over €35,000 a year.
Most employers offer commission schemes and may offer discounted or free products and treatments.
Skills and personal qualities
Beauty therapists should:
- have excellent interpersonal skills
- be a good listener, to find out which treatments would suit clients
- have a caring attitude
- be able to put people at ease
- be punctual
- have a smart appearance and good personal hygiene
- be aware of the need for physical contact with clients
- have good dexterity
- pay attention to detail
- have stamina, as they are on their feet most of the day
- have artistic flair for make-up, nail art or skin decoration.
Interests
It helps to be interested in:
- health and beauty
- issues that affect physical appearance and well-being, such as stress and diet.
Getting in
There are opportunities throughout Ireland in salons and beauty clinics, leisure clubs, spas, hotels and health farms. There are also opportunities to work overseas, eg on board a cruise ship, at holiday destinations or for major airlines. Beauty therapists can also be self-employed.
Entry routes
Although there are no set entry requirements, beauty therapists are usually expected to have a recognised NFQ level 5 qualification.There are a number of Beauty Therapy courses run by the Further Education sector in Ireland.
Useful Links:
CIDESCO – Accredited Beauty Schools in Ireland
British Association of Beauty Therapy & Cosmetology
The Guild of Beauty Therapists