Esthetics College Program at Centennial College is Cutting Edge

When getting a relaxing and deep cleansing facial at a luxurious spa, we are focused on the atmosphere, the good feeling the spa offers and how wonderful our face will look once the facial is finished. We rarely think about the science behind the field of esthetics. However, the estheticians who perform facials (deep cleansing, exfoliation and massages), body waxing, body treatments, anti-aging procedures (Botox, laser treatments and deep chemical peels), skin care, manicures, pedicure, and more, are trained to understand the chemistry aspects of the field as well as the pampering and customer service ones. At Centennial College, students can participate in a two-year esthetics college program that prepares them to work in: spas, salons, health clinics, cruise ships, skin care companies and other such outlets. The industry, according to Melissa Durran, coordinator of the program, is a multi-billion dollar industry with many opportunities for both employment in one of the places mentioned or self-employment.

“I think a lot of people have the impression that it’s just doing nails or getting facials but there’s a lot of theory, there’s a lot to know about the skin and the body,” says Kayla Vanderoos of the Esthetician program. “I didn’t think I’d have to do chemistry but we do. We have to learn about the ingredients and what different ingredients react to the skin. All that kind of stuff really surprises me. I think it would surprise a lot of people, too.” What won’t surprise people is the thorough job that Centennial College’s program does with teaching students the skills they need to succeed in the field. Through a comprehensive curriculum students are trained in: anatomy, physiology, practical applications, product knowledge, sales techniques and business practice. Specific courses in which they participate include: Skin Care Theory, Skin Care Practices, Manicures and Pedicures, Spa Health and Safety, Waxing and Hair Removal, Product Chemistry and Advanced Experience, and more. Many of these courses include a lab component, which takes place in Centennial College’s esthetician lab facilities and uses cutting-edge equipment that is common in today’s wellness and medical spas.

All courses within this esthetics college program are geared towards ensuring that students are job-ready upon graduation. This includes the incorporation of field placements in some of the best spas in the city of Toronto. During their field placements, students work with real customers (under the supervision of their instructors), applying what they have learned and gaining more preparation practice for the field. Please be advised, students must have completed a standard first aid and CPR (healthcare provider level) course, a vulnerable sector background police check, and an immunization review form before they can be sent out on the esthetician work placement.

To apply for admission to this esthetics college program, students must be able to present at minimum an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or be 19 years of age or older. Also required is compulsory English 12C or U, or skills assessment, or equivalent.