The Increasing Role of Men in the Esthetics Field

Hey guys! Have you ever considered a multifaceted career in esthetics? In the past this field had been predominantly dominated by women, but as time progresses this is a career that more and more men are getting involved in. The environment that estheticians work in has become more inclusive to both men and women, and with the US bureau of labor statistics projecting a 12% growth of the field through 2024, it’s no wonder more men have decided to become a part of such an exciting, prosperous industry.  There is a significant amount of stability in an esthetics career, with more places to be employed popping up every day on Long Island and within the New York metro area. These places include salons, spas, wellness centers, medi-spas, dermatology offices, and even barber shops. With so many new openings each year, these places are all seeking amazing applicants regardless of gender. ISPA reports that that 47% of spa-goers are men, so why shouldn’t men work in this environment?

While not always the case, some men who have completed the esthetics program have found it easier to find employment. Since there is a smaller number of men in the industry compared to women, it can be easier to stand out, get noticed, and attract their own roster of clients for services such as facials, waxing, microdermabrasion, and makeup application. Some female clients may prefer getting the opinion of someone of the opposite sex for their services.  A fresh point of view or perspective is always heavily sought after in the beauty industry.

In the “old days,” the only acceptable place men could go for esthetic treatments themselves were barbershops, and those were often few and far between. Now, not only are barbershops making a resurgence on Long Island, but they are diversifying their services to include esthetic care like facials as well. It is no longer taboo for a man to take care of his skin, which is fantastic for both men and the industry!

When you look at very successful people in the beauty industry over the years it’s hard to ignore the men who have made their mark. Men who have been successful makeup artists such as Kevyn Aucoin, Dick Page, Jay Manuel, and Mario Dedivanovic, have all paved the way in this industry for men to be more visible, accepted, and admired for their exceptional work. Through the last few years, the surge of successful men in the skin care side of the industry has also grown tremendously, with pioneers such as Julio Mendez fighting back against the negative stigma of a male esthetician.

To be a highly effective esthetics professional you must possess certain skills and a strong knowledge of the science of skincare. How the skin works, its needs to be in its optimal state, and the ways to treat some of the most common skincare issues, are just some of the goals of an esthetician. Obviously learning these skills isn’t exclusive to either sex. Both men and women can easily study and become the best esthetician possible with the right training and dedication. There are approximately 183,000 licensed estheticians in the United States alone, per research done by the Associated Skin Care Professionals Network. Granted, 98% of those are women, but that trend doesn’t have to continue. If you are a man wanting to seek out an amazing career in a field with more job security than most, it might be time to explore esthetics.

For those located in the Long Island Area, call New York Institute of Beauty today at (631) 582-4713 to find out more about how to get started following your passion!