Final answer:
Esthetics students typically need to complete between 600 to 1000 hours of training to work on the public, varying by state, along with passing a state board licensing exam.
Step-by-step explanation:
The number of contact hours required before an esthetics student can work on the public varies by location as each state has its own licensing requirements. Generally, esthetics programs entail between 600 to 1000 hours of training, which cover a range of skills necessary to become a proficient esthetician. These skills include facials, skin care treatments, hair removal, makeup application, and sometimes more specialized services depending on the program.
Once these required hours are completed, students often need to pass a state board licensing exam to legally perform esthetic services on the public. It is important for students to check with their local esthetician board or licensing body to obtain the specific required number of hours and any additional criteria they must meet.