Courses

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do esthetician schools require sanitation?

Sanitation is one of the most important responsibilities of every licensed esthetician. It helps prevent the spread of infection, ensures compliance with Colorado regulations, and builds trust with every client.

The State of Colorado requires students to complete 210 credit hours dedicated to sanitation as part of the 600-Hour Esthetics Program.

Why sanitation matters

• Protecting public health: Proper sanitation and sterilization help eliminate bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other pathogens to protect both clients and practitioners.
• State licensing requirements: Infection control is a major component of Colorado licensing requirements and state board examinations. Failure to demonstrate proper sanitation procedures can result in failing the licensing exam, disciplinary action, fines, or suspension of a professional license.
• Professional reputation: Clients expect a clean, safe, and professional environment. Consistently maintaining high sanitation standards builds confidence, encourages repeat business, and contributes to long-term career success.

Examples of sanitation responsibilities

Between clients

• Follow all DORA-required sanitation protocols.
• Disinfect treatment rooms, workstations, equipment, and tools.
• Wipe down bathroom surfaces, reception counters, point-of-sale equipment, chairs, light switches, and door handles.
• Remove all physical debris from treatment areas.
• Place used linens into the appropriate laundry bins.
• Wash hands thoroughly between every client.
• Prepare a clean, sanitized station for the next client.

End-of-day sanitation

Students rotate end-of-day sanitation duties during the final 30 minutes of each school day.

• Empty and sanitize trash cans before replacing liners.
• Complete final cleaning of treatment areas and the front desk.
• Disinfect phones, keyboards, thermometers, light switches, door handles, and bathrooms.
• Fold and organize clean laundry.
• Sweep and mop floors.
• Clean and sanitize the kitchen area.

2. Why do students learn front desk and reception skills?

Hands-on training in the Student Spa is an essential part of the VKMD educational experience. Students work with real clients under instructor supervision while learning the operational and customer service skills expected in today’s medical aesthetics industry.

Reception and front desk training prepares students for success by helping them develop confidence in:

• Greeting and communicating with clients professionally.
• Scheduling appointments.
• Answering phone calls.
• Processing client payments.
• Recommending retail products.
• Managing treatment records.
• Learning industry scheduling and booking software.
• Providing exceptional customer service.

Students are expected to uphold VKMD’s standards for professionalism, appearance, safety, and sanitation while performing both treatment and reception responsibilities.

Many entry-level positions require estheticians to perform front desk duties in addition to providing services. Learning these skills before graduation gives students a significant advantage when entering the workforce.

Key benefits include:

• Developing business and retail sales skills.
• Strengthening communication and customer service abilities.
• Understanding the daily operations of a professional spa.
• Increasing confidence and employability after graduation.

3. Is VKMD Institute of Medical Aesthetics accredited?

VKMD Institute of Medical Aesthetics is a certified and approved occupational school through the Colorado Division of Private and Occupational Schools (DPOS), which is the required authorization for private occupational schools operating in Colorado.

VKMD does not participate in FAFSA or federal financial aid programs. As a privately operated institution, we focus on delivering a high-quality education while keeping tuition as affordable and cost-effective as possible.

It is important to understand that accreditation primarily relates to eligibility for federal financial aid programs. It does not determine the legitimacy of a school, the quality of its education, or the value of a student’s training and credentials.

Our decision to remain privately operated allows us to invest directly in our curriculum, instructors, and hands-on learning experience while maintaining exceptional value for our students.

4. What makes VKMD’s 600-Hour Esthetics Program different?

While we fully meet all Colorado state educational requirements, our curriculum goes beyond the minimum standards to prepare students for long-term career success.

In addition to core esthetics education, students receive advanced training that includes:

• NCEA Certification preparation.
• Face Reality Acne Expert education.
• Advanced waxing techniques.
• Brow lamination.
• Eyelash lifting and tinting.
• Additional advanced aesthetic treatments and professional development.

Rather than briefly introducing each topic, VKMD takes a comprehensive, in-depth approach that helps students build confidence in both practical skills and theoretical knowledge before entering the workforce.