So you want to be a beauty therapist?

It looks pretty easy doesn't it? Slapping on a face mask here, ripping off a waxing strip there. And a nice fat tip at the end of it! Unfortunately that's where the fantasy ends and the reality starts. Beauty therapy, including nail tech, is one of the most physically and mentally demanding careers you can choose. Not only do you have to learn how to do each treatment correctly (you can severely damage skin when using products or equipment incorrectly) but you also have to learn a great deal about the human body to ensure you don't give the wrong advice or treatment. There are many skin conditions, illnesses and syndromes which are spotted by the beauty therapist before the doctor. For example, a therapist needs to be on the lookout for signs of androgenic disorders if a client has heavy facial hair growth. And that acne may actually be rosacea. Becoming a nail tech is just as involving, especially as you will be using a wide range of chemical products. Being able to use these safely and effectively is a real skill, along with being able to spot potential nailbed problems. Beauty therapy is one profession that you cannot "fast track" too. Although it's possible to take intensive courses for the theory, the practical work cannot be faked or rushed. No wonder it has such a high dropout rate! Beauty therapy is one of the most maligned, yet rewarding careers on offer. If you truly have a passion to help others and you are self disciplined then you will surely succeed if you put your mind to it.