Getting into work 

The beauty industry contributes over £20billion to the UK economy and the DWP have outlined our industry as a key part of the Government initiative to drive economic growth. Artists, your country needs you! 

The Government’s job portal currently has over 4,000 beauty jobs listed, with vacancies across the industry from beauty therapists to retail merchandising and lecturers.   

Now is the perfect time to join the flourishing beauty industry, where the convergence of innovation, inclusivity and self-care creates an unprecedented landscape of opportunities.”

Rebecca Crawforth

Owner of Navy Professional and patron for the Future Talent Programme

“Embrace the chance to redefine beauty norms, unleash your creative prowess, and pave the way for an uncapped future where you are in control of your career based on how hard you wish to work,” Crawforth continues.

Despite the current cost of living crisis, it appears that the beauty industry is continuing to prosper. “I can’t believe how many people, including myself, are still spending money on beauty treatments when the cost of living is so crazy,” explains Jamie, owner of Dorset-based salon Huyana Beauty. 

“I could’ve sworn my business would take a hit when this happened,” she continues. “Touch wood, I’m fully booked even with inflation and the potential of recession." 

One of the benefits of getting into beauty is the flexibility it offers. You can work hours that suit you and even get started from the comfort of home if you don’t have the option of working from a salon. 

“The fact you can do so much from a small business with not many overheads in the comfort of your second bedroom, working whatever hours you choose is phenomenal,” says Jamie of Huyana Beauty. 

Inspiring the next generation 

To help inspire the next generation of beauty professionals, the British Beauty Council have also launched the first ever programme to promote beauty careers to secondary school students. The Future Talent Programme is a government-backed initiative that provides beauty related resources   to school, showcasing careers across beauty and STEM fields.  

From beauticians and personal care to sustainable formula and packaging development and lots more, it demonstrates just how varied, interesting and rewarding a career in beauty can be.  

Encouraging women-led business 

Even in 2023, women still face boundaries in business, especially when it comes to founding their own company.  

However, 80% of businesses in the beauty sector are led by women. It’s a safe, welcoming and inclusive industry full of strong, passionate female entrepreneurs that encourages women to thrive. We’re all about empowering beauty pros. 

Beginner friendly beauty courses 

Despite the current cost of living crisis, the National Hair and Beauty Confederation’s quarterly survey into the position of the industry has shown an increase in the number of beauty business that are making a ‘small or good profit’.  

Diane Whitbread, an advisor for the DWP, described working in beauty as “rewarding careers within [a] dynamic industry”. Just ask any beauty professional and we’re sure they would agree. There’s nothing like bringing a boost of confidence and a good old pamper to clients by doing something you’re passionate about. 

Getting started in the beauty industry is easier than you might think, even if you’re thinking about a career change and have no prior beauty experience or training.  

Many of the courses available at Nouveau Beauty are suitable for everyone and are brought to you by industry leaders in a variety of sectors, including brows, lashes and permanent makeup. All courses begin with flexible online learning, making it super easy to start your journey.  

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How existing professionals can help 

If you’re a salon owner looking to expand your business, you can also help to train up the next generation of beauty professionals. You can train new employees in industry renowned treatments such as HD Brows for just £295+VAT and LVL for just £200+VAT. With courses starting online before heading into academy, there’s minimal time out of salon.  

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You could also opt to get involved in the DWP’s Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs). This scheme helps people get into the beauty industry by providing work experience and the chance to learn new skills.  

The six-week programme includes pre-employment training, work experience placements and a guaranteed job interview. More information on the scheme and how it could benefit your business can be found here. 

Despite the many challenges it has faced in recent years, the beauty industry continues to thrive. Kevin Hollindrake, a Government Minister for the Department of Business and Trade said, "This industry is so important to our economy: £24.5 billion contribution to our economy and 550,000 jobs, which is tremendous. I know how important it is, not just to our economy but it's really important to our wellbeing and our communities." 

There has never been a better time to help meet the demand and join a passionate, booming industry. For any inspiring beauty professionals, we’ll leave you with a piece of advice from Jamie at Huyana Beauty: “Ignore all your anxiety about not being good enough, as one day you will be.”