MENU
SEARCHJill Kohler, president and founder of Kohler Academy, responds.
What should I look for in an esthetics training program?
According to Jill Kohler, president and founder of Kohler Academy in Scottsdale, Arizona, beauty professionals who want to become licensed in skin care should do intensive research in three areas before signing up for an esthetics course.
"One of the most important aspects is obviously the school's curriculum and student support," she says. "Look for curriculum that moves at a strong pace and progressively moves from skin health, skin conditions and the fundamentals to the advanced techniques and product knowledge."
For adult learners, Kohler recommends asking the school if it incorporates different learning styles into each educational day, presenting info through audio, visual, hands on, games, review time, quiet test taking and Q and A.
"Ask about textbooks, products, demos and how the curriculum is broken up throughout their 600 hours. Ask about their passing rates at the State Board and their placement rates with local salons and spas. Find out how involved they are with students and how many services they truly offer them."
Another important area Kohler suggests an interested student research is the school's faculty.
"Look for passionate, committed and up-to-date educators. Find out if you can meet them, ask them what they love about teaching." It's also important to find out the school's teaching philosophy.
"My school incorporates ‘Mindful Teaching' from Pivot Point, and it is a fabulous tool and resource for our educators to use in the classroom and clinic," she notes. "Ask if the educators are required to have advanced training, even if the state does not require it. A school that embraces advanced education for its teachers should be the most up-to-date."
Finally, take a look at the place. Ask yourself, says Kohler, "Are the classrooms accommodating to the students? Do they incorporate LCD projectors, DVDs, laptops, flip charts, tables, chairs, etc.? Does each skin care classroom have eight-function machines and skin care beds so the students are practicing on the same equipment they have in the clinic? Are all student learning styles accommodated for in the facility-some learn by doing, by seeing, by hearing, etc.?" She says that if you are satisfied with the answers, this could be the right environment for you.
Known for his buttery blondes and a technique for highlighting hair with more precision that he called chunking, Brad Johns died on August 27. His friend and fellow colorist, David Stanko, shares thoughts on his talented colleague and close friend.
As technology evolves at an accelerated rate, you want to make sure you have the best in your business toolkit to help you grow sales, motivate your team, communicate with your current and future clientele, and streamline your managerial tasks. The 2026 SALON TODAY Technology Solutions Guide is designed to help you navigate today's growing landscape of salon and spa technology. In this guide, you'll find a curated look at more than 50 of the latest software platforms, digital solutions, and innovative features to help you compare options and identify the best fit for your business.
The Davines Edit reflects the brand’s passion for people and planet.
RÜTE Wash introduces a shower cap designed specifically for crown washing, helping clients with hair extensions cleanse the scalp while protecting the lengths from water.
Premiere San Antonio Presented by SalonCentric returns for its fourth edition August 30-31 at the Henry B. González Convention Center, delivering its biggest and boldest event to date.
One-Day Personal and Professional Development Education Event for Beauty Professionals Set for October 25, 2026, at the Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue.
A live education series explores the ideas, collaboration, creative decisions and processes behind the winning work.
According to the report, people are moving away from copy-paste trends and toward community, using real experiences to develop a sense of taste and beauty that reflects who they are.
Hairstylists and barbers can showcase their creative and technical vision in two global categories with cash prizes and a chance to represent in Portugal.
The BBR Beauty Show featured a prominent speaker lineup including Lacy Redway, Karrueche Tran, Danessa Myricks, Chelley B., Sabrina Elba, Jessica Harris-Dupart, and more.
The Professional Beauty Association and Pivot Point team up to develop an ongoing study that measures the confidence of salon owners, stylists, school owners, and students.
This shared recognition celebrates the strength of industry collaboration in advancing professional mobility.
In Dubai, a salon visit isn’t an appointment. It’s a weekly routine, and clients can spend $800 to $1,400 a month on it, according to Gaurav Tripathi of MADI International. On October 6-8, 2026, the market behind those numbers opens its doors as Beautyworld Dubai marks its 30th edition at the Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together distributors, brands, stylists and salon owners from all over the world.
Sponsored by BeautyWorld Dubai
The Good Patch is a leading wearable wellness patch brand, offering wellness and skincare patches that support everyday needs including energy, sleep, relaxation and more.
Four publications for beauty industry professionals to enhance their leadership skills, financial awareness, professional growth, and joy!
Ulta Beauty has announced its partnership with Black Beauty Roster to launch the pilot of All Textures Certification (ATC). The new program is aimed at addressing gaps in education within the beauty industry and raising the level of skills and guest satisfaction for all.
Mireya Villarreal, founder of From Chair to Boss™, is bringing together beauty industry leaders for a new one-day educational event designed to help salon professionals strengthen the business side of their careers. From Chair to Boss Live! will take place September 28 at the Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center in Oak Brook, Illinois.
