Cosmeticians assess the skin type and condition of their customers, advise them and carry out suitable body or beauty care measures. They cleanse the skin, remove blackheads, pimples or unwanted body hair, apply masks and nourishing creams or lotions and cut or shape finger and toenails. In decorative cosmetics, they apply makeup, shape eyebrows, dye eyelashes or paint nails. In addition, cosmeticians also sell skin care and cosmetic products.
In German, Cosmetologist is called…
Kosmetiker
Why should You apply as a Cosmetologist
- Creative outlet to express oneself
- Opportunities for entrepreneurship
- Ability to work in a variety of environments from salons to TV and film sets
- Constantly developing and learning new techniques
- Flexibility in choosing work schedules
- Chance to build long-term relationships with clients
- Good earning potential through tips and increasing client base
Many job ads mention the following advantages and benefits:
- Permanent employment contract
- Electronic recording of working hours
- Free meals
- Annual bonus payments
- Company pension scheme
- Allowance for local public transport
- Regular employee events
- Corporate health management
- Family & Friends rates
- Corporate Benefits
Hourly wages are frequently announced as 14 to 17€.
Next career steps are an apprenticeship to certified cosmetologist.
As you might expect, there will be an initital training.
Basic Requirements for Cosmetologist…
German Minimum B2 | No Shame | Steady Hands
What it needs to succeed as a Cosmetologist
This Job requires
- being careful about detail and thorough in completing work tasks.
- maintaining composure, keeping emotions in check, controlling anger, and avoiding aggressive behavior, even in very difficult situations.
- being pleasant with others on the job and displaying a good-natured, cooperative attitude.
- being reliable, responsible, and dependable, and fulfilling obligations.
- being open to change (positive or negative) and to considerable variety in the workplace.
For the use of cosmetic treatment devices with non-ionizing radiation sources, a certificate of competence according to NiSV is required.
What to Do in detail
Cosmetologists work a lot with their hands. In addition to steam, epilating and massage devices, they also use sterilizers, nail scissors and files. They always observe hygiene regulations and, if necessary, wear disposable gloves so as not to become infected, for example, in the case of patients with skin diseases. In addition, skin irritation can occur due to the constant handling of chemical preparations, cosmetics and water. The treatment area is usually very warm. There is often a high level of humidity because they work a lot with water and water vapor. In their work, they have direct physical contact with their customers. In cosmetic studios, perfumeries and drugstores, as well as dermatologists’ practices, they usually work during normal opening hours – even on Saturdays. If they treat their customers at home, they work according to their time requirements and may therefore also be busy in the evening hours.
Cosmetologists carefully and skillfully perform manicures and pedicures. They need creativity and a sense of aesthetics for type consultations and the selection of suitable cosmetics. Color vision and a good sense of form are indispensable. Cosmetologists must be sociable and have good communication skills when serving customers and advising them on make-ups and cosmetics.