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Beauty Academy in Honolulu, HI
Hawaii
Cosmetology
Academy
Transform your passion for beauty into a successful career with us—your path to becoming a certified esthetician starts here!
Aloha,
Hawaii Cosmetology Academy (HICA) has been a cornerstone of beauty education in the heart of Oahu for over 50 years. Rooted in the vibrant spirit and natural energy of the island, we are more than just a beauty school. Our commitment lies in mastering the art of hands-on techniques, honoring time-honored traditions and true craftsmanship over the shortcuts of modern machinery. As much as we value these traditional methods, we continue to evolve by incorporating new techniques that rely on the skill of our hands, adapting thoughtfully to the age we live in.
At HICA, we believe skincare is far more than surface-level beauty. It is an essential part of whole-body wellness. Our core philosophy embraces a holistic approach, empowering students to not only refine their technical skills but also understand the deeper connection between inner health and outer radiance. We nurture future professionals who are ready to heal, uplift, and transform lives, one touch at a time.
What We Do
Our signature treatment:
Kao (Face) Lomi Lomi
Kao Lomi Lomi is an advanced facial technique created and taught exclusively at Hawaii Cosmetology Academy. Inspired by the principles of traditional Hawaiian healing and modern muscle manipulation, this method works deeply with facial structure and surrounding areas like the neck and shoulders, promoting lymphatic flow, myofascial release, and skin rejuvenation — all without the use of machines!
Clients often report feeling and seeing a lift before even looking in the mirror. The results are natural, lasting, and deeply therapeutic.
Opportunity for International Students
The student visa is available for application. We recommend starting the application process as soon as possible to ensure it is completed in time for your desired start date.
Take the chance to learn more about the M1 visa experience. Find out about the esthetician course and life in Hawaii as an international Japanese student!Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
Come visit us!
Book Your Facial or Massage
Treat yourself to a moment of calm with our affordable student facial treatments for only $45! Or treat yourself to a therapeutic professional massage by a licensed massage therapist, starting at $55 for 60min!
Whether you’re looking to refresh your skin or unwind with a relaxing massage, our skilled therapists are here to help you feel your best. Schedule your appointment now and experience the ultimate in relaxation and beauty!
Take a school tour
Our school is located on the 30th floor of the Century Center Building, between Ala Moana and Waikiki, offering stunning panoramic views of Honolulu! This luxurious environment is the perfect place to master your trade.
School tours are available weekdays (excluding holidays) 9:00am-5:00pm.
Please contact us for your desired date and time!
808-398-8885
FAQs
We've compiled answers to frequently asked questions regarding schooling, studying abroad in Hawaii and visa inquiries.
With the M1 visa, can I work in Hawaii after I get my license? A Hawaii esthetician license is not a work visa, so it does not permit you to work. However, if you already have a green card or a work visa, obtaining an esthetician license will allow you to work in the esthetics field.
Can I use a Hawaii state license to work in other states? A Hawaii state license is only valid in Hawaii. In most other states in the U.S., you cannot work as an esthetician with just a Hawaii license. Each state has its own rules and requirements, and you must obtain a license that meets the regulations of the state where you wish to work.
Do you teach in languages other than English? No, classes are taught in English. Additionally, the exam is available in English, so the curriculum is designed to prepare students for it. However, staff can provide support in Japanese.
Can I definitely pass the licensing exam? Our school has an average licensing exam pass rate of 95%. We provide several mock exams for students to get a feel of the test-taking experience. Test dates are available every month, you can take the exam as many times as needed until you pass.
Is there an age requirement? Yes, you must be over 16 years old to take the esthetician exam.
I currently have a F-1 visa, can I still get an M-1 visa? If you have an F-1 visa, you can switch to an M-1 visa. However, you cannot switch from an M-1 visa to an F-1 visa.
For how long is the M-1 visa valid? An M-1 visa is valid for a maximum of 12 months from the time you enter the United States.
Do M-1 visa students get paid during their internship period? No, payment is not allowed. Paying M-1 visa students is a violation of U.S. law. Even after passing the licensing exam, as long as you remain in the U.S. on an M-1 visa, you must continue attending school for at least 20 hours per week. You may practice facials with classmates, friends, or clients, but only as part of your training—not as paid work.
If you do not receive a reply within 3 business days, this may be due to a system error. We apologize for the inconvenience, but please send an email to info.hicacademy@gmail.com or this address directly, or call us at (808) 398-8885.
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