Sherine Nejadfard

If you are not happy in your work, it might be time for a makeover.

That is what Sherine Nejadfard realized shortly after completing a medical billing program in 2011.

"Sitting behind a desk all day just wasn't my thing," Nejadfard said.

This got Nejadfard thinking about how much she liked working with cosmetics while growing up.

"It felt comfortable. I did makeup for my family and friends for years," she said. "We always liked to look our best. We are glamour girls."

The realization that she wanted to turn her love of cosmetics and skin care into a career brought Nejadfard back to the JVS Adult Career Center where she enrolled in the Managing Esthetician Program. The eight-month course includes instruction in skin analysis, facials, waxing, body treatments, salon management, massage and retail sales.

"I saw esthetics as a fast track to employment in something I've enjoyed doing most of my life," said Nejadfard, who completed the program in 2012.

"I have always enjoyed helping people with skincare and cosmetics," said Nejadfard, who is employed at Rita's Skin Clinic and Electrolysis in Westlake during the day, but also does airbrushed makeup for weddings, proms and special events.

The Managing Esthetician Program also prepared Nejadfard to test for her state license from the Ohio Board of Cosmetology.

"My instructor, Marge Daidone, went above and beyond the classroom," said Nejadfard.

"Anything new, Margie was on top of it. She wanted us to be aware of all the aspects that treatments and new products had to offer," continued Nejadfard.

Nejadfard honed her skills working on real clients in the JVS Outer Glo Spa, operated by the esthetician students under the direction of a licensed instructor.

Nejadfard is also certified in microdermabrasion - a mechanical exfoliation treatment for skin problems such as acne, and wrinkles; and chemical peels. She is also skilled in permanent cosmetics-a form of tattooing, and performs relaxation massage.

"Each person has different needs and different skin tones," Nejadfard said. "There are different waxes for hair and skin, different needs for dry skin, different eye colors and shadows to highlight the contours of someone's face."

The State Cosmetology Board also requires Nejadfard to complete eight hours of continuing education each year; many continuing education courses are offered at the JVS Adult Career Center.

Nejadfard's next step is to prepare for her manager's license exam next year.

"If you want to move up in this field, the manager's license is essential," said Nejadfard. "I see myself possibly owning my own business, but it could potentially open up other opportunities like working for a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon, or even an optometrist."

Esthetics is one of the fastest-growing fields in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 44,400 esthetician jobs in 2012, with a median salary of $28,640.

The BLS reports that the average growth rate for all occupations is 11 percent. Based on the growing number of spas and beauty salons, the organization projects employment of skincare specialists to increase 40 percent from 2012 to 2022.

Note: All services at The Outer Glo Spa are open to the public and performed by JVS Adult Career Center Esthetics students. Prices for waxing range from $3.00 to $35; facials from $12 to $40; and massage from $8 to $30.00. Call 440-774-1051, ext. 2254, for an appointment.