$32K - $65K/yr
Salary Range
7+
Job Titles
10+
Top Cities
5
Certifications
What is a Esthetician?
An esthetician is a licensed skincare specialist who performs facials, skin treatments, hair removal, and other non-medical skin services. They work in day spas, med spas, dermatology offices, and wellness centers.
What Estheticians Do
- Perform facials and skin treatments
- Provide waxing and hair removal services
- Analyze skin conditions and recommend treatments
- Apply chemical peels and microdermabrasion
- Educate clients on skincare routines and products
- Perform body treatments and wraps
Typical Esthetician Job Titles
Esthetician Salary & Career Path
Average Salary Range
$32K - $65K/yr
Median: $43,000/yr
Entry Level
0-2 years: Junior Esthetician ($32K-$38K/year)
Mid Level
3-7 years: Esthetician, Senior Esthetician ($40K-$50K/year)
Senior Level
8+ years: Master Esthetician, Lead Esthetician ($52K-$65K+/year)
Skills & Requirements
Required Skills
- Facial techniques
- Skin analysis
- Waxing and hair removal
- Chemical peel application
- Microdermabrasion
- Product knowledge
- Client consultation
- Sanitation protocols
Preferred Certifications
- State Esthetician License
- Master Esthetician License
- Advanced skincare certifications
- Laser technician certification
- Chemical peel certification
Education Requirements
Completion of a state-approved esthetician program (typically 600-1,500 hours) and passing the state licensing exam. Master esthetician requires additional training.
Top Cities for Esthetician Jobs
Related Roles
Frequently Asked Questions
Estheticians specialize in skincare and can't work on hair. Cosmetologists are trained in hair, skin, and nails but typically have less advanced skincare training than estheticians.
Estheticians earn $32,000 to $65,000+ per year. Med spa estheticians and those with advanced certifications typically earn more. Tips can add 15-25% to base earnings.
A master esthetician has completed additional training (usually 600+ more hours) and can perform advanced treatments like chemical peels, microneedling, and laser services depending on state regulations.
No, injectables must be administered by physicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants. Estheticians can assist but cannot inject. Some states allow RNs to inject under physician supervision.