Cosmetology in Costa Rica

Cosmetology is the study and application of beauty treatments to the skin, hair, and nails. It includes skincare, skin analysis, hair styling, cosmetics, manicure/pedicures, chemical hair treatment, non-permanent hair removal (such as sugaring and waxing), and permanent hair removal (such as electrology and intense pulsed light). Cosmetologists can also perform relaxation techniques, aromatherapies, reflexology, expert makeup applications, and theatrical applications.

Cosmetologists can be divided into several specialties, including hair color specialists, barber, skin care consultants, or more technical professions, such as Aestheticians who are licensed professionals who focus on treating skin-related issues, such as acne, signs of aging, and hyperpigmentation. They are also trained to perform technical procedures, such as microdermabrasion, cosmetic electrotherapy treatments (galvanic current, high frequency), mechanical massage (g8 vibratory ad vacuum), ultrasound/ultrasonic treatments (low level), and microcurrent (also referred to as nonsurgical “facelifts). Aestheticians who undergo special training may be able to offer permanent makeup applications, laser hair removal, light chemical peels, microblading, electrology, and eyelash extensions as well.

How Long Should I Stay in Costa Rica?

After cosmetology procedures, you should be able to leave the cosmetologist office on the same day. You may even be allowed to leave for home during the same day of your cosmetology procedure. However, since some of the procedures, such as microdermabrasion, require several sessions you may want to stay in Costa Rica until your whole treatment plan is completed. Your medical travel team should be able to advise you on this matter. 

What's the Expected Recovery Time?

Most cosmetology procedures require little to no downtime and you should be able to go back to work immediately unless your cosmetologist says otherwise. You may experience some temporary side effects, but usually, nothing that requires bed rest. 

What Aftercare is Required? 

The aftercare will be different, depending on the type of procedure you underwent. In general, you need to take care of the area of skin where the procedure took place. For instance, you may need to stay out of the sun, use a rich moisturizer, avoid makeup, and keep yourself hydrated after microdermabrasion, micro-needling, and chemical peels. To maintain the results of your cosmetology procedure, you may need a touch up once or twice a year, depending on the treatment you undergo.

What's the Success Rate?

The success rate of cosmetology largely depends on the skills of your cosmetologist. However, given the advances in technology and understanding of the skin, nail, and hair, cosmetology procedures offer a high success rate and most people are satisfied with the results they get. Since almost all cosmetology procedures are noninvasive, the risks are also minimal. Some temporary side effects may include minor pain, discomfort, redness, and swelling. Rare, complications include infections, allergic reactions, burns, and severe pain. The key to avoiding these complications is to follow all instructions your cosmetologist gives you and also ensure that your cosmetologist is certified or licensed.

Are there Alternatives?

Alternatives to cosmetology depend on the type of procedure you underwent. If you go to a cosmetologist for a microcurrent to get a younger appearance, you can consider the surgical alternative to the procedure, which is a facelift. If you seek a cosmetologist help to regrow your thinning hair, you can get a hair transplant as the surgical alternative.

Cosmetology in and around Costa Rica

Costa Rica is a tiny country in Central America, bordered by Panama, Nicaragua, the Caribbean Sea, and the Pacific Ocean. This country is generally regarded as having the most democratic and stable government of all the Central American countries. It charms its visitors with unspoiled beaches, lush rainforests, a plethora of wildlife, and steaming volcanoes. Besides its breathtaking landscape, Costa Rica is also famous for its healthcare. Tens of thousands of medical tourists come to this country to take advantage of its world-class yet inexpensive medical care. Most of the medical procedures in the country are 40% to 50% cheaper than in the United States or Europe. Cosmetic surgery and dentistry are the most sought-after procedure, but a growing number of foreign patients also come for orthopedic treatment, bariatric surgery, and eye surgery. 

Popular Parts of Costa Rica

Surrounded by volcanoes and green hills, San José, the capital and largest city of Costa Rica, has one of the most spectacular settings in the world. This laid-back and pleasant capital is filled with colonial mansions that have been converted into contemporary galleries, amazing food, and vibrant nightlife. The most popular attractions in this city are Museo de Jade, Teatro Nacional, Museo Nacional de Costa Rica, and Mercado Central. Those who want to relax under the sun usually visit Tamarindo, which is famous for its beaches. Here, visitors can visit Las Baulas National Marine Park, go rafting in the Colorado River, or relax in Playa Tamarindo.

Weather and Climate in Costa Rica

Due to its close proximity to the Equator, Costa Rica is a tropical country with two seasons: the dry “summer” season and rainy “winter” season. The dry season, from January to April, is warm and pleasant. Rain is very unlikely to fall during this season, even in the rainforests. The rainy season, sometimes called the “green season,” is hot and humid. Rain usually falls in the afternoon and evening, while the mornings are often sunny. On the Caribbean coast, rainfall is spread out throughout the year, but it gets far less rain in September and October.

Getting around in Costa Rica

Juan Santamaría International Airport is the main international airport in Costa Rica, located in San José. It has various flights to domestic and international destinations, including Toronto, Mexico, New York, and London. Affordable domestic flights between San José and popular destinations are the fastest way to get around and handy for accessing the more remote areas. Buses are reasonably priced and have an extensive network, but they can be slow. Private and shared shuttles are available, the best way to get around is, however, by renting a car as it gives more flexibility and allows you to access more remote destinations. 

Tourist Visas in Costa Rica

Everyone who wants to visit and stay in Costa Rica is required to have a passport unless they are a citizen of one of the visa-exempt countries. The visa-exempt countries include EU countries, the UK, the US, Australia, Russia, and several other nations. Citizens of other countries not listed in the visa exemption agreement need to apply and obtain a visa before visiting.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: Colón (CRC) is the national currency of Costa Rica. 1 USD is equivalent to 601 CRC. In some places, such as tourist areas, US dollars are accepted. 
2. Money & Payments: ATMs accepting foreign cards, particularly Visa, can be found in all major cities and small towns. Credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are all accepted in larger establishments. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. 
3. Local Language: Costa Rican Spanish is the official and most commonly spoken language in Costa Rica. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
4. Local Culture and Religion: Roman Catholicism is the official religion in Costa Rica, but the constitution provides for freedom of religion. Around 17% of the population is unaffiliated with any religions and around 3% follows either Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Neo-Paganism, or other religions. 
5. Public holidays: New Year’s Day, Juan Santamaria Day, Guanacaste Day, Assumption, Mother’s Day, Independence Day, Day of the Cultures, and Christmas Day are some of the most celebrated public holidays in Costa Rica.