Everything You Need to Know to Start Beauty School

Are you passionate about beauty, wellness, and making others feel confident in their skin? Do you dream of building a career that blends creativity, hands-on skills, and the opportunity to make a difference every day? If so, beauty school could be the perfect first step in your journey. And at Aveda Institute New Mexico, we’re here to help you navigate that path from start to finish.

Whether you’re fresh out of high school, considering a career change, or simply looking to turn your love of beauty into something more, here’s everything you need to know to start beauty school.

Why Choose Beauty School?

Beauty school is more than just learning how to cut hair or apply makeup—it’s a launchpad for your entire professional future in the beauty and wellness industry. At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we offer training in cosmetology and esthiology.

Some of the top reasons to attend beauty school include:

• Creative expression: Use your skills to help clients express themselves through hair, makeup, or skincare.
• In-demand industry: Beauty services are always needed.
• Flexible career options: From working in a salon or spa to freelancing, teaching, or even starting your own business.
• Personal fulfillment: Help others look and feel their best, every single day.

Programs Offered at Aveda Institute New Mexico

Before enrolling, you’ll want to determine which beauty school program best fits your interests and career goals. At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we offer the following programs:

Cosmetology Program

This program covers:

• Hair cutting, coloring, and styling
• Skin care and basic esthetics
• Nail care
• Makeup application
• Business skills and retail knowledge
• Client relations and guest services

It’s ideal for students who want a well-rounded education that allows them to offer full beauty services and pursue licensure as a cosmetologist.

Esthiology Program

If you’re more interested in skincare and wellness, esthiology might be your path. This program includes:

• Facials and advanced skin treatments
• Hair removal (waxing, tweezing, etc.)
• Makeup artistry
• Spa techniques like body treatments and aromatherapy
• Understanding skin types, conditions, and product knowledge

Graduates are prepared to become licensed estheticians and work in spas, wellness centers, dermatology clinics, and more.

Admissions: How to Get Started

1. Talk to an Admissions Advisor

Your first step is reaching out to our admissions team. At Aveda Institute New Mexico, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Our advisors will walk you through your program options, explain licensure requirements, and help you start your application.

2. Meet Basic Requirements

To apply, you typically need:

• Proof of age (17+)
• High school diploma or GED
• Letter of intent
• Pre-enrollment checklist (given during your session)

3. Tour the Campus

Seeing the campus in person can help you envision your future. During your Beauty School Career Planning Session, you’ll:

• Walk through our classrooms and clinic floor
• See our retail space and Aveda product line
• Meet instructors and current students
• Get a feel for the culture and energy of the school

Pro tip: Come prepared with questions like “What does a typical day look like?” or “What support is available after graduation?”

4. Complete the Application and Interview

Once you’ve decided on your program, fill out our application and schedule a one-on-one interview with admissions. This is your opportunity to talk about your goals, ask any final questions, and make sure we’re the right fit for each other.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Worried about paying for school? You’re not alone—and we’re here to help.

Aveda Institute New Mexico is accredited, which means eligible students can apply for federal financial aid*, including:

• Pell Grants
• Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans
• Parent PLUS Loans

In addition to federal aid, we offer scholarship opportunities through the school and Aveda’s broader network. Our financial aid advisors can help you:

• Fill out your FAFSA
• Create a customized financial plan

For more information on how to pay for beauty school, be sure to read our blog. 

*Financial Aid is available to those who qualify.

What You Can Learn in Beauty School

Beauty school is hands-on and interactive—you won’t be stuck behind a desk all day. Instead, you’ll be learning through:

• Live demonstrations
• Practice on mannequins and classmates
• Working with real clients on the clinic floor
• Theory lessons to understand the “why” behind techniques
• Business training to prepare you for the real world

At Aveda Institute New Mexico, you’ll also gain experience with the Aveda brand philosophy, which emphasizes natural, plant-based products, sustainability, and wellness from the inside out.

Some core topics covered include:

• Sanitation and safety standards
• Anatomy and physiology of the skin and hair
• Product chemistry and ingredient knowledge
• Client consultation and communication
• Retail and sales strategies
• Building your personal brand and portfolio

Preparing for Your First Day

Starting beauty school can be exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you prepare:

Get Your Supplies

All students receive a kit as part of their tuition, which includes tools, books, and Aveda products. Make sure you know what’s included and what you might need to bring from home.

Dress for Success

Aveda Institute New Mexico requires students to wear black, professional attire. Think of it as part of your transition into a beauty professional. Comfortable shoes are a must!

Set Goals

Why are you going to beauty school? What do you want to do afterward? Setting short and long-term goals can help keep you motivated throughout your training.

Build a Support System

Whether it’s friends, family, classmates, or instructors, surround yourself with people who encourage and inspire you. Your beauty school journey may be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone.

Life as a Beauty Student at Aveda Institute New Mexico

We pride ourselves on creating a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring learning environment. As a student here, you can experience:

• Aveda culture: Rooted in wellness, sustainability, and self-care.
• Real-world training: Work on real clients* in our public clinic to build confidence and skills.
• Community events: Participate in fashion shows, volunteer days, and industry networking events.
• Career support: From resume help to mock interviews, we’ll help prepare you for your first job.

We also believe that your wellness matters. Our curriculum includes mindfulness practices and self-care, so you can thrive not just as a professional, but as a whole person.

*All services provided by students under the supervision of licensed professionals.

Career Paths After Graduation

Graduating from Aveda Institute New Mexico can open the door to many exciting possibilities. Depending on your program, you could become:

• Licensed cosmetologist
• Esthetician
• Makeup artist
• Hair color specialist
• Spa or salon manager
• Freelance bridal stylist
• Lash or brow technician
• Waxing specialist
• Skincare consultant
• Beauty educator or platform artist

Why Aveda Institute New Mexico?

There are plenty of beauty schools out there, but Aveda Institute New Mexico can offer something special. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Aveda education: Learn using high-performance, plant-based products from a brand known for innovation and wellness.
• Eco-conscious culture: Join a school that cares about sustainability and social responsibility.
• Licensed, experienced educators: Get mentorship from passionate professionals who are invested in your success.
• Vibrant community: Be part of a diverse and inclusive learning environment where creativity thrives.
• Job placement support: Our Career Services team can help connect you to employers and opportunities across the beauty and wellness industry.

Ready to Start?

Your beauty journey begins here, and we can’t wait to be part of it. Whether you’re passionate about hair, skincare, or helping people feel their best, Aveda Institute New Mexico can give you the tools, training, and confidence to turn your passion into a profession.

Take the first step today by contacting us. We look forward to hearing from you!