There are many medical careers available that allow beauty lovers to pursue their passion. Beauty lovers are drawn to careers as hair stylists or makeup artists. These jobs don’t usually make a lot of money unless they’re working for famous clients.
Many people won’t think of pursuing a career in medicine to pursue their passion for beauty. However, they can make more money and be exposed to other medical careers that can help them achieve the looks they want. Here are five examples medical careers that emphasize beauty.
#1: Cosmetic Chemist
A cosmetic chemist is a great career choice for beauty gurus who are “product junkies”. This group of scientists works in laboratories to create skin, hair, and body care products. Cosmetic chemists have a deep understanding of reactive science and chemistry to make safe beauty products for consumers. A Bachelor’s degree is required to become a cosmetic chemist. You will need to have experience in working in labs and chemistry. A Bachelor’s degree in chemistry is sufficient to be a cosmetic chemist. However, those who go on to earn a Master’s or PhD are more likely to make more. A cosmetic chemist can expect to make around $78,000 annually, although this will depend on where you work, your education and experience.
#2: Cosmetic Dentist
Sometimes, a cosmetic dentist can be confused with an orthodontist. Both perform procedures to improve the appearance of teeth. Orthodontists are skilled in more complicated procedures to improve function and oral health. Cosmetic dentists, however, focus on the appearance of the teeth. Cosmetic dentists can improve the appearance of a smile by:
- Installation of fake teeth (e.g. crowns or veneers)
- Repairing broken and/or uneven teeth
- Whitening your teeth
The average annual salary of a cosmetic dentist in the United States is $236,000 annually. A cosmetic dentist is trained in general dentistry. They can also perform simple procedures such as fillings and teeth cleanings.
#3: Dermatologist
Dermatologists are specialists in dermatology, which is the practice of treating skin and nails. Dermatologists diagnose and treat skin conditions and sensitive areas. Some procedures they can perform include botox, chemical and cryotherapy (freezing techniques that remove warts), fillers, laser treatment, microneedling, and cryotherapy. These conditions can be treated by dermatologists:
- Acne
- Dermatitis
- Eczema & rosacea
- Hair loss
- Hyperpigmentation
- Nail problems
- Skin cancer
- Rashes and skin lesions
It takes approximately 11 years to become a dermatologist. This requires a Bachelor’s degree and attending medical school. On average, dermatologists earn around $270,000 annually.
#4: Esthetician
Although they are similar to dermatologists in their approach, estheticians focus on skincare. Although they are skilled in the care of skin health and appearance, their focus is on skincare. The following are qualifications for estheticians:
- Facials
- Offer chemical peels
- Recommend a skin care routine
- Remove facial hair
You must earn your high school diploma or GED to become an esthetician. Then, you will need to attend an esthetician school to be certified. On average, estheticians earn $36,000 annually.
#5: Plastic Surgeon
Plastic surgeons are medical doctors who perform reconstructive or cosmetic surgery on patients. Plastic surgeons are medical doctors who have been trained. To become a plastic surgeon, you will need to complete a bachelor’s degree with a focus on pre-medical studies, then go to medical school and finish a residency before becoming board certified. Plastic surgeons can perform the following procedures:
- Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery).
- Breast augmentations/reductions
- Facelifts
- Liposuction
- Rhinoplasty (nose jobs).
Plastic surgeons earn an average of $280,000 annually. However, this all depends on the place you work and how much experience you have. Plastic surgery can be a lucrative career. You can search for job opportunities in your specialty, or start your own practice in underserved regions.