Challenging Discrimination Within the Wellness Industry: Why Are Some Roles Treated as Inferior?

The wellness industry, built around self-care and nurturing others, is not without its internal issues. One of the most troubling is the discrimination that exists between different roles within the profession. From nail technicians to beauty therapists, certain practitioners are unfairly viewed as less skilled or less intelligent. Terms like "nail girl" or "just a beauty therapist" are used dismissively, creating a harmful hierarchy that devalues the essential work these professionals do.

The Hierarchies Within Wellness Roles

Despite being part of the same industry, there's a clear pecking order. Massage therapists, for example, are often seen as providing more serious or skilled work than nail technicians, while beauty therapists might be considered less important than skincare specialists. This internal ranking is rooted in the false belief that some roles require less training or expertise than others, when in reality, each profession demands specific knowledge, practical skills, and ongoing education.

Beauty therapy, nail art, and other wellness services are often misjudged as "soft" skills, implying that they are easier or less important. However, these professionals must master complex techniques, understand hygiene and health regulations, and deliver precise results, often while providing emotional support to their clients. This is far from "easy work."

Why Are Beauty Therapists Treated as Inferior?

A large part of the problem lies in the feminisation of the beauty and wellness industries. Historically, jobs associated with women have been undervalued, and this bias continues today. Beauty therapists, for instance, aren’t simply improving appearances – they are boosting clients' confidence, well-being, and mental health. Yet the outdated stereotype of the "unintelligent beauty therapist" persists, reinforced by media depictions that reduce their worth to appearance alone.

It’s time to challenge these outdated ideas. Professionals across all areas of wellness – whether they're doing intricate nail designs, performing massages, or offering skincare treatments – deserve equal respect for the care, expertise, and creativity they bring to their work.

Next time you visit a spa or salon, remember the skill, knowledge, and effort behind each service. The wellness industry deserves respect across the board, and it's time to break down the barriers that undermine it from within.