When most beauty schools closed their doors during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Facial & Wellness Society unveiled its training institute.
On May 17, 2020, just one day after receiving its license and three days before Texas’s pandemic shutdowns, the school welcomed its first students. That bold move marked the beginning of a new chapter in esthetics education.
Rather than delay opening during the pandemic, founder Kimberly Mason developed a hybrid model combining online learning with in-person instruction. That flexibility helped launch the school on schedule and continues to serve students today.
The Facial & Wellness Society (TFWS) is transforming how estheticians are trained. With a focus on medically compromised skin, business readiness and inclusive care, TFWS has become a trailblazer in holistic skincare education.
A Holistic Approach to Specialized Skin Care
TFWS was created to fill a gap in the industry: estheticians trained to care for clients with complex health conditions. Whether it’s cancer, diabetes, autoimmune disorders or burn recovery, these clients need gentle, customized treatments—and practitioners with the knowledge and sensitivity to provide them.
That spirit of service extends beyond the classroom. Students and graduates frequently volunteer their time and skills to provide care for patients undergoing cancer treatment or dealing with skin issues caused by other serious conditions. These experiences deepen their empathy and reinforce the real-world impact of their training.
“Clients are delighted to find there are estheticians trained to meet their needs,” says Director of Operations Donna Williamson.
Pioneering Oncology Training
In August 2023, Sawayla Ugwuegbu, former senior program director at Houston Methodist The Woodlands Health Education and Learning (HEAL) program, joined TFWS as president. Drawn to TFWS’s oncology training, she collaborated with Kimberly to expand it. A 12-hour module grew into a 32-hour COA program—meeting standards recognized by both esthetics and medical professionals—the only such accredited oncology course for estheticians.
Though other oncology-focused programs have since emerged, none match TFWS in depth or accreditation.
Going Beyond the Basics
Texas requires 750 hours of training to become a licensed esthetician. For makeup, the mandate is 60 hours, often reduced to just a few hands-on hours at many schools. TFWS offers 100 hours in makeup and color theory, covering airbrush techniques, color correction, highlighting and contouring. Students describe it as “like an art class.”
The curriculum at TFWS emphasizes anatomy and physiology so students understand the science behind skin conditions. This foundation helps graduates deliver personalized care that goes beyond aesthetics to improve quality of life. The program also teaches business fundamentals, so graduates are equipped to run successful practices of their own.
Inclusivity at the Core
Inclusivity is at the heart of the Fearless Beauties certification at TFWS. Students learn to care for all skin types, with in-depth education on ethnic diversity. The curriculum prepares estheticians to serve a wide range of clients with varying skin needs and physical conditions, including clients in wheelchairs. TFWS was among the first Texas schools to prioritize this training.
Looking Ahead
In 2025 and beyond, TWFS is expanding access through community partnerships. With industry growth ahead, the school is welcoming more students and providing third-party scholarships to survivors of human trafficking and individuals experiencing hardship within the community.
In a mere five years, TFWS has become known for innovation and excellence, providing aspiring estheticians with advanced training to confidently care for clients with medically complex skin and make a meaningful impact.
“Clients are delighted to find there are estheticians trained to meet their needs.”