As a cosmetologist, you have many more career opportunities than you would expect. In many states, your cosmetology license also covers you for other associated careers, such as massage therapist. Massage is a complementary industry to cosmetology, often being offered in salons and spas along with hairstyling, manicures, pedicures, and more. This makes it a natural area for many budding or experienced cosmetologist to choose to enter.
What is a Massage Therapist?
Massage therapists help people heal from injury and reduce stress
A massage therapist practices massage for both relaxation and therapeutic reasons. Massage treats muscles and soft tissue to improve circulation, reduce stress, treat injuries, and more. There are numerous massage modalities, and most therapists specialize in at least one. The most common form of massage is Swedish, but other popular methods include Aromatherapy, hot stone, acupressure, deep tissue, athletic, and Thai.
What is the Job Outlook?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS), the massage industry is expected to grow 23 percent until the year 2022, which is much higher than most occupations. More and more people are turning to massage therapy to help with stress and stress related to conditions, which is putting a high demand on the industry. To meet with the demand, more massage therapists will be needed over the next decade or more.
What is the Median Salary?
You can make a decent salary as a massage therapist
The median salary for a massage therapist is $35,970 per year, which is about $17.29 an hour. The top 10 percent of massage therapists make more than $70,000, while the lowest 10 percent make only $18,420 per year, according the BLS. There are many factors influencing the amount you will make as a massage therapist. As you gain experience, you will start to earn more money. Additionally, the state in which you work and in what type of salon you offer your services also heavily influence your salary.
Do I Need a Cosmetology License?
Most states require massage therapists to have a license. You will have to check with your state to see whether massage falls under the umbrella of cosmetology license or has its own certification requirements. Typically, to become a massage therapist you will have to undergo specialized training in at least one of the massage modalities and then pass the state-licensing exam. Most states require at least 500 hours of training before you can sit for the exam, according to Beauty School Directory. You will have to check with your state’s licensing board to know what you have to do to be compliant in your state.
What Does a Day in the Life of a Massage Therapist Look Like?
Many massage therapists work part time, with only 1 in 3 having a full time schedule. Many massage therapists work as independent contractors or open their own business, although some salons, spas, or massage parlors will hire the therapists as an employee, according to Wise Geek. Typically, a masseuse will see several clients in one day, and each session will be tailored to the individual needs of the client. A massage therapist will also need to discuss the medical background of the client to ensure that the right needs are met and there will be no complications.
You may be expected to help out around the spa, including washing linens
Therapists do not just massage their clients in their daily job; most are also expected to make client notes, book appointments for new and existing clients, wash linens, and help out in the salon and spa.
Massage therapy can be a rewarding and high-paying career option for those in the beauty industry. You have the opportunity to connect with your regular clients and know that you are helping people heal their minds, bodies, and souls.
Beauty Academy offers cost-effective, hassle free online continuing education for massage therapists and other cosmetology careers.