When I first started blogging, a friend expressed surprise that someone so academic would write about beauty. This comment made me very unhappy. It is one of my passions, and the subject on which my entire blog is built, but it is also a profession that I have many friends who are involved in. There are friends who are professionals in makeup, nail technicians, beauty therapists and hairdressers. There are also friends who own their own franchised beauty business, such as Avon. These people are all creative, talented, passionate, and highly-trained professionals. Yet, there are still people who doubt that it is worthwhile to work in it or that it is worthy of respect as a field.
Over 1 million people work in the UK’s beauty industry alone. Despite the recent global recession, the beauty and cosmetics sector has seen a steady increase in market share and is expected to reach over $200 billion by 2017. This is far more than other industries, and it is still growing. Cosmetics can give confidence to many women, and increasing numbers of men. There are many people who love looking their best, even in times of recession. They will still buy makeup and indulge in beauty treatments, even if it means they have to spend more on other luxury items. Many economists believe that the beauty industry is one that is “recession-proof”. The beauty industry is an excellent choice if you are looking for employment after graduation or if you want to change your career.
Millions of people work in the beauty industry worldwide, with many different roles. Cosmetic companies constantly invent new products and develop them. They employ scientists called ‘cosmetic chemicalists’ to do this. This job requires a college or university degree in chemistry, or another science related to chemistry. An NVQ in Beauty Therapy requires that students have a basic knowledge of anatomy and physiology. The human body is studied by students. They learn about the circulatory, lymphatic, bone and skeletal systems, skin, and other conditions that can affect the body, such as fungal infections. Students also learn about the business side the beauty industry. This would not be considered a “soft” qualification.
Even for those not in formal training, there are still many things to learn and offer to those who are curious. Your appearance can be transformed and makeup can give you a boost of confidence. True beauty is within you. Knowing that you are looking your best can help you feel better about yourself. It is something I believe should be taught. A plain, unadorned face can become a work of art with the right makeup application. You will be amazed at the creativity of makeup artists if you do a quick Google search. They deserve the same respect as fashion designers and musicians.
