Specialists to open Montana Skin Academy in Missoula for estheticians

The Montana Skin Academy – a new school for estheticians – plans to welcome its first class of students this week, helping meet what organizers say is a growing need for skin care.

The school's founder and CEO, Jennifer Clouse, described the grand opening as a dream-come-true.

“For years, there has been an unmet demand for quality estheticians in Montana,” said Clouse. “Now we can fill this need right here in Missoula. We're thrilled this dream has finally become a reality.”

The Montana Skin Academy serves as a licensed school for the training and licensing of estheticians – someone who specializes in the beautification and health of skin.

While estheticians are not medical doctors, they're licensed to perform cosmetic skin treatments, including facials, superficial chemical peels, body treatments and waxing.

“Montana Skin Academy will be the only school in Montana that focuses solely on the art of esthetics,” said Mandy Shafer, the school's lead instructor. “Prior to the opening of Montana Skin Academy, students wishing to pursue this career would have to travel several hours away, or even out of state to pursue their passion.”

Shafer said students who attend the Montana Skin Academy will receive 650 hours of training, including classes in sanitation, safety, anatomy, physiology, disorders of the skin and makeup, among other things.

Students will also learn salon management, business methods, customer service, professional ethics and current state laws and rules that govern the industry. A grand opening reception will take place from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Montana Skin Academy in Southgate Mall.

For more information, call 406-244-4007.