How to Get Your Esthetician License in Michigan

Are you passionate about skincare and beauty? Becoming a licensed esthetician in Michigan can open doors to a career in the beauty industry! Navigating the licensing requirements and procedures can be overwhelming, leaving many individuals unsure of where to begin. If you’re ready to turn your passion for skincare and beauty into a career, here are the steps you need to take to get your esthetician license in the great state of Michigan!

STEP 1: COMPLETE A STATE-APPROVED ESTHETICS PROGRAM

The Michigan Cosmetology Licensing Board handles the licensing and practice of estheticians in the state. The board’s primary objective is to ensure that estheticians meet certain standards of education and professionalism, ensuring the safety and satisfaction of clients. Individuals applying for an esthetician license in Michigan must meet the following requirements set forth by the licensing board:

• Complete the 9th grade or above
• Be of good moral character
• Be at least 17 years old

ABOUT OUR ESTHETICS PROGRAM

Receiving an esthetics license requires 600 hours of approved training in specialized esthetics courses. Although Michigan only requires students to have 400 hours, we added more extensive training to ensure you can use your license in any state upon graduation! Your esthetics education and training can include the following:

• Facial treatments
• Hair removal methods
• Makeup application
• Client communication
• Sanitation practices
• Relevant state laws and regulations

The program will equip you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel in esthetics. You’ll have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced instructors, honing your skills to perfection!

STEP 2: APPLY FOR THE STATE BOARD EXAM

If you meet the above requirements, you can use the MyLicense licensing portal to apply online for the state board exam. There is also an application fee of $39. The Michigan Cosmetology Licensing Board is in charge of issuing licenses for estheticians, but they have hired PSI Services LLC to give the theory and practical tests for estheticians.

Once you get a notice from the Michigan State Board that you are eligible to take an exam, you must schedule and pay for your exam.

You must complete the following:

• Read over the Candidate Information Bulletin for details about the exams
• Complete and submit the Michigan Esthetician Examination Registration Form
• Schedule your exams by registering with PSI online or by phone
• Pay the $161 examination fee

Note: You must take the exam within one year of the day PSI receives your payment to avoid losing any money you paid toward the exam. If you pass the practical portion, you have one year to pass the theory tests.

STEP 3: TAKE AND PASS THE THEORY AND PRACTICAL ESTHETICIAN EXAMS

Once you have completed your esthetics program, the next step is to pass the state board examination. This examination consists of a written test and a practical exam that evaluates your understanding and competency in various aspects of esthetics.

THE ESTHETICS THEORY EXAM

The theory exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to test your comprehension of the subject matter. These questions cover a wide range of topics relevant to the practice of esthetics. You’re given two hours to complete the examination, so manage time effectively and ensure you answer all questions.

Here’s an overview of the test outline with a breakdown of the sections and the percentage each contributes to the final score:

• Sanitation, disinfection, and safety – 18%
• Client consultation and analysis – 20%
• Basic facial treatments – 29%
• Advanced facial treatments – 5%
• Hair removal – 10%
• Facial makeup – 5%
• Body treatments – 3%
• Licensing – 10%

You must score at least 70% to pass the theory exam. You will get your results immediately after completing the exam.

ESTHETICS PRACTICAL EXAM

The practical exam assesses your practical skills and ability to perform various skincare treatments and techniques. You will have 95 minutes to complete the exam, during which you will be expected to demonstrate your proficiency in specific areas of esthetics.

The exam is typically divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of skincare and esthetician practices. Here is an outline of the practical exam and the time allotted for each section:

• Set up and client protection – 5 minutes
• Cleansing and steaming – 15 minutes
• Exfoliation and extraction – 15 minutes
• Facial massage – 10 minutes
• Mask application – 10 minutes
• Facial makeup – 15 minutes
• Eyebrow shaping – 10 minutes
• Lash and brow tinting – 10 minutes
• Clean up and disinfection – 5 minutes

The practical exam has a total of 58 points. You must score at least 75% to pass the exam. After passing the theory and practical tests and meeting all Michigan esthetician licensure requirements, the State Board will automatically issue you a license.

STEP 4: RENEWING YOUR MI ESTHETICIAN LICENSE

Once you get your esthetician license, your journey as a professional in the field of esthetics continues. You must renew your esthetician license every two years by August 31st. The renewal process involves submitting a renewal application and paying the required $48 renewal fee.

Michigan has no requirements for continuing education as part of its licensing process. As long as you keep your license up to date, you can work as an esthetician. However, staying updated with the latest industry trends, techniques, and advancements is essential to provide your clients with the best possible services.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES AS AN ESTHETICIAN

As an esthetician in Michigan, you can explore various rewarding career opportunities in the beauty and wellness industry. With a solid foundation in skincare, you can work in spas, salons, wellness centers, or even start your own business.

Certified estheticians can look forward to jobs including:

• Wellness Consultant
• Facial/Skin Care Specialists at salons, spas, and resorts
• Nail Technicians
• Waxer/Waxing Specialist or Hair Remove Specialist
• Esthiology Course Instructor
• Makeup Artist
• Beauty Therapy
• Spa Esthetician/Manager
• Eyelash and Brow Specialist

In fact, many of our students go on to own their own practices, stores, and salons.

START YOUR ESTHETICS CAREER WITH DAVID PRESSLEY SCHOOL OF COSMETOLOGY

Getting your esthetician license can be an exciting pathway to a career in the beauty industry. With dedication and a passion for skincare, you can achieve your dream of becoming a licensed esthetician and explore the many opportunities in this growing field!

Are you passionate about beauty and want to pursue a career in cosmetology? David Pressley School of Cosmetology can be a great place to start. Contact us today and take the first step towards a career in esthetics!