Beauty Regulations in Europe
The beauty industry in Europe has no strict licensing regulations for practitioners. Most countries are unregulated, so individuals interested in becoming practitioners can work in beauty without having to meet formal requirements. Aspirants have the option to get further education in their field of interest or not.
In this article, we will provide you with some information about the European standards for beauty salons and services, the benefits of professional training and the standard procedure for becoming a recognised beautician.
To learn whether your country or the place you’re interested in has licensing laws, here’s a list of different European countries:
I.S. EN 17226
I.S. EN 17226 is the European standard for services in beauty salons. It serves as the primary guideline set by the European Committee for Standardisation or CEN for its country members. It contains recommendations and requirements for beauty salons and practitioners that the members can follow and apply nationally.
Many European countries lack regulations for beauty services. Some countries separate medical and non-medical beauty services, while others don’t. The I.S. EN 17226 can guide them in ensuring safe and effective procedures.
Beauty treatments covered in the guidelines are for the skin, nails and hair. These include procedures provided manually or with the help of tools and equipment.
A preview of the I.S. EN 17226 Irish version is provided here:
https://shop.standards.ie/preview/538975326513.pdf?sku=1164949_SAIG_NSAI_NSAI_2770871
Despite the presence of the European beauty service guidelines, members of the EU still have the final decision on whether to follow the said rules or not.
Benefits of Professional Beauty Training
Although strict beauty regulations are not implemented in many European countries, practitioners who are professionally trained are still at an advantage. Here are the reasons why enrolling in a beauty course is highly recommended:
Trends and Latest Techniques
Taking a beauty course allows you to not just learn the basics but also the trends and latest techniques. Knowing what’s new keeps you up to date with the procedures or tools that leading salons are using. You are able to keep up with the demands of your clients, enabling you to offer the best and most advanced services.
Practical Training
Beauty courses are not only about theory and classroom learning. Most of them have around 80% practical training and 20% theoretical learning. With practical training, you have the opportunity to gain real salon experience that helps you improve your skills.
Access to Modern Equipment and Facilities
It’s always a different experience to learn the right skills for beauty in a salon-like facility. Many course providers have facilities equipped for salon services and classroom learning. They ensure to provide their students with the best learning experience in a salon-like environment with the latest tools and equipment.
Experienced Beauty Trainers
Your teachers are experienced professionals in beauty. They are highly knowledgeable and skilled in the industry, making them effective mentors. They can also share their professional experiences that may help you in your learning process.
Convenience in Learning
The great thing about beauty training nowadays is you have the option to choose between learning in person or online. Online courses provide the same benefits or experience as in-person training. These are excellent for learners with a busy schedule, such as working moms.
How to Become a Professional Beautician in Europe
Know the Skills You Want to Learn
The beauty industry is a very broad area, and you might want to start somewhere, like your focused interest. It typically involves hair, nail and skin services. If you have an interest in hair, you can become a hairdresser and start from there.
Enrol in a Beauty Course
Choosing the right beauty course can be tricky or a little confusing. Courses offer similar curricula, which makes it difficult to decide. Getting the best match depends on your lifestyle and whether you prefer in-person or online training. Either way, make sure to know the breakdown of the course you’re interested in if it fits what you want to learn.
Get Certified
Make sure to complete your training to get certified successfully. Your certification is your proof of professional training that many employers are attracted to. Certifications may not be necessary for countries in Europe without licensing regulations, but you’ll have a better chance of getting employed fast when you’re certified.