Aesthetics Institute is a fantastic spot for anyone looking to kickstart their career in aesthetics. With all the right accreditations and licenses, students can feel confident knowing they’re getting top-notch training that meets state standards.

Their specialized programs dive deep into skincare, covering over 40 different skills and services, including advanced techniques like DiamondGlow Microdermabrasion and a variety of facial treatments. 

We tracked some of their former students, and they talked about the hands-on nature of the training. They shared that the diverse skill set they gained helped them stand out in the job market.

What’s cool is that they also offer self-paced online classes, making it super convenient for students to juggle their education with busy lives. 

Another thing we really loved about them was their job placement assistance. We found this helpful for students to land gigs in local spas and clinics before they even graduate. 

Plus, the institute boasts modern, well-equipped facilities that create a great environment for hands-on learning. We believe the state-of-the-art equipment can really make the training experience for many both enjoyable and highly informative.”

They offer authentic education, character growing experiences, and real world preparedness for your career.

“I graduated from this school in 2021, and have successfully started and grown my laser and skin business since then. They offer authentic education, character growing experiences, and real world preparedness for your career. Excellent school with true education!”

Brianna Bracelin, Google Reviews

The staff & instructors are so knowledgeable and beyond helpful.

“Just finished up my time at the Aesthetics Institute and I absolutely loved it. The staff & instructors are so knowledgeable and beyond helpful. They are always willing to help and answer questions and they do their best to make learning enjoyable. I had an amazing experience and honestly can’t even imagine going to another school. I plan on returning in a couple years to continue my education for advance aesthetics.”

Ruth Pierce, Google Reviews

Beau Monde Academy truly impressed our team with its holistic and flexible approach to beauty education. From the moment we looked into their offerings, we loved that they cover every major area of the beauty industry—hair design, nail technology, and aesthetics. 

What really stands out is that Beau Monde is fully accredited and has built a strong reputation for graduating salon-ready professionals.

One thing we especially appreciated is their focus on competency-based training. This lets students move through the curriculum based on their skills, not just time spent in class. 

This means students progress at their own pace—something we think makes for a truly effective and personalized learning experience. 

They do not fall short in job placement either, offering much-needed support through career development courses that equip their students for the beauty biz. 

However, one of the former students we talked to said that the academy has a limited number of mentors. This means less one-on-one attention for some students.

The students are supervised and given training on the job.

“Well laid out, pleasant environment as clean as a whistle. Still receiving applications. The students are supervised and given training on the job. I’m proud of my haircut. Had a good Boba Tea in the depressingly empty Lloyd Center Mall afterwards. I would recommend having one’s hair done there, though.”

mash2vhK, Google Reviews

Educators really care about what they’re teaching about

“As a student the educators really care about what they’re teaching about. Everyone here is always full of smiles and uplifting personalities!”

FinnJonah Murphy, Google Reviews

Summit Salon Academy caught our attention with its goal to shape students into not only skilled beauty professionals but also savvy business minds.

We love how their curriculum combines hands-on training with industry-relevant theories. This provides students with a well-rounded education in cosmetology, barbering, and esthetics. 

It’s clear that this approach truly pays off—graduates often express how this approach prepares them for real-world challenges.

The academy also features impressive facilities filled with the latest equipment, from high-quality styling chairs to professional-grade hair dryers. Having access to this level of equipment gives students a practical edge, preparing them for tools they’ll use in real life.

Some of the students we talked to, though, expressed concern about high staff turnover. They pointed out that frequent instructor changes can lead to mixed teaching styles, making it challenging to receive consistent information.

Overall, though, Summit Salon Academy’s proactive job placement support and balanced curriculum make it a strong choice for anyone serious about building a career in beauty.

Aveda Institute Portland is another beauty school that emphasizes a holistic approach. Its accredited programs are well-respected in the beauty community and highlight both beauty techniques and eco-friendly practices. 

What really impressed us was their use of natural products during hands-on training. Their curriculum goes beyond teaching beauty techniques—it covers sustainability, wellness, and even retail skills within their hair design and Esthiology programs. 

On a recent visit to the school, we got a sense of the program’s pace. Prospective students should be ready for an intense, fast-track learning environment. The accelerated structure means you’ll be taking in a lot of information and developing new skills at a rapid rate.

Several current students we spoke to mentioned that the programs can be tough, especially for those just starting in the beauty field.

Despite the challenges,  Aveda’s robust job placement assistance is a significant advantage. They often help students land positions in Aveda salons or with other industry partners right after graduation. 

The stylish clinic floor was another highlight— boasting over 170 styling stations, it allows students to practice in a real salon environment.

An instructor which was exceptionally reassuring

“Absolutely amazing service! The cosmetology student who cut my hair did an absolutely fantastic job; incredibly attentive and constantly checked in. When they weren’t sure, they asked an instructor which was exceptionally reassuring. The price was phenomenal. $15??? Wow! If you want to tip, bring cash because you can’t tip on card. What a fabulous experience. A++!”

Rivka. Google Reviews

Students are so well educated, professional and enjoyable

“Aveda Institute PDX is has always exceeded my expectations. I recognize it’s a learning environment but these students are so well educated, professional and enjoyable. I never feel nervous or unhappy with my results. Thank you for another positive experience!”

Christine Meyer, Google Reviews

Portland Beauty School is another competency-based beauty school where you can learn at your own pace. It focuses on mastering techniques rather than just clocking hours.

We found this flexibility helpful for students with different learning styles or prior experience. One student noted that moving through the curriculum at their own speed helped them tackle challenging techniques without the pressure of keeping up with classmates.

We were also impressed when we saw the school’s well-equipped facilities. They feature professional skincare devices and massage tables, which really help boost their students’ training and confidence.

The school is also known for its strong job placement assistance. It actively supports students in finding internships and jobs after graduation and builds connections with local salons and spas. 

One alum noted that the staff took the time to understand their goals, making finding the right job opportunities easier.

That said, some students did mention that the curriculum could benefit from updates to cover the latest industry trends and techniques.

You’re not going to get anywhere better staff and pricing for beauty school to get your license.

“If you need to go to school to get your license – just pick this one. I graduated in June and school staff and instructors was very nice and helpful all the time, and I liked the atmosphere there as well. You’re not going to get anywhere better staff and pricing for beauty school to get your license. But I think I need to mention as some people asking me that type of question all the time – beauty school teach you only what you need to get your license, that’s why this school is the best deal, but to became better professional in your field of practice and learn new technics etc, you need to go to classes and training for certifications in certain technic, but this certifications will be useless if you don’t have a license, and that’s why you need to go to beauty school.”

Anya Fomin, Google Reviews

Everyone was so chill and never felt intimidated to ask any questions

“Portland beauty school gave me the opportunity to accomplish my esthetics program in 3 months and it was the perfect way for me since I’m a mom of 2. I traveled 3 hours every Saturday to get to school and it was well worth it! Staff is amazing! Everyone was so chill and never felt intimidated to ask any questions since everyone was always willing to help! Callie is genuinely helpful and fun to talk to! Jenny and Carol Taylor are amazing instructors! Thank you PBS :)”

Fatima Lopex, Google Reviews