Being an Esthetician can be the equivalent of being a magician. Estheticians can help people feel confident in themselves. How many times have you gone to see an Esthetician, and you left your appointment feeling the best version of yourself?
Whether it be for cosmetic or medical purposes, receiving services from a licensed Esthetician can be life-changing. You may have wondered if becoming an Esthetician is the right path.
If you have a passion for wellness, Esthetics, or skincare, this might be an excellent career for you. Estheticians can work in spas and provide cosmetic services or work in medical clinics providing more intense treatments.
Being an Esthetician is more than providing a service. It can be extremely fulfilling to help people work on their insecurities. There is no better feeling than being able to help an individual who is struggling with something.
Are you still wondering what it takes to be an Esthetician? Let's dive into all the things required of estheticians, what types of jobs there are, and how you can establish yourself.
Esthetician Career Opportunities
Is Esthetics A Good Career Choice?
The skincare industry is constantly changing. There are always new techniques, machines, or products being developed. It will be necessary to keep up with these new developments within the industry.
So, as an Esthetician, you are never done learning. Also, once you become licensed to practice in your state or country, this should not close you off to learning new techniques and ideas.
You should always strive to provide the best professional services possible. Being an Esthetician does sound busy and fulfilling. However, there are multiple things to consider before deciding if this is the right option for you.
Education/Licensing
Each state has its version of the Board of Cosmetology. This state board organization is where you will be tested and granted a license to practice Esthetics.
This is where research comes into play. Your state board should have a list of approved schools that offer Esthetician courses. These schools listed will be able to prepare you for your licensing exam.
On average, you need to complete 600 hours of Esthetician School to be eligible to become licensed and start working. Tuition costs can range from $3,000 to $10,000, varying by state.
Researching what schools are near you, taking tours of the school, or talking to people who have completed the same course can be beneficial in helping you make your decision.
According to the Beauty School Directory, "Esthetics training is much more in-depth than learning about skincare. It also includes concepts like sanitation, human physiology, following state laws, and building professional skills."
You will get the best of both worlds in Esthetics school. Schools focus on theoretical and practical learning to set you up for the real world.
What can you expect to learn in Esthetics School?
- Ingredient Analysis
- Facials and Massage
- Anatomy and Physiology
- Hair Removal
- Makeup Application
- Marketing/Sales and Management
- Safety and Sanitation/Sterilization
Your school may offer even more opportunities to learn all about Esthetics. You can also learn how to conduct specialty services like Microdermabrasion, Aromatherapy, Laser Hair Removal, Permanent Makeup and more.
Cons
Not everything will be peachy keen as an Esthetician. It can take a while to build up experience and a clientele. This is another thing to factor in when picking schools. Are they equipped to help you boost yourself into the job market?
Things may be challenging in the beginning. It depends on your workplace and how many hours they require you to put in every week.
Of course, there will be different rules in different environments. Policies of spas can be different than policies in medical clinics. Depending on the place of work can also determine how you will attract clients.
This means a couple of things. Some salons or clinics will already have a clientele to book with you. Other times, it may be your own responsibility to bring in a client to your place of work.
The place of work will also determine your schedule. You may find yourself having a flexible schedule and work odd hours of the day. That may mean either late at night or early in the morning. You may have to bend and fit your client's schedule.
Working on weekends is also something usual in the Esthetics world. While some people won't have time to make it to the service during the week, be sure that the weekend will be full. It's a popular time for everyone to reset before the upcoming week ahead.
However, you may find yourself working a typical 9-5 schedule. Except your office will be the spa. Some chain spas can structure work hours to fit corporate standards.
Likewise, some jobs will offer you a fixed salary, and other job offers can be strictly commission.
If you are not a people person, you may find this kind of work more stressful. No matter how upsetting a day has been for you, it is always essential to remain poised and professional.
Socializing is a significant aspect of a job like an Esthetician. While not all clients will talk your ear off, it is essential to take note and match their energies.
Also, you are the service provider, so don't be afraid to take action or engage in convos to ensure your client is comfortable.
Esthetics is a rapidly growing industry. The competition can get tricky. These are some key points to consider when deciding if becoming an Esthetician is suitable for you.
Types Of Esthetics Jobs
You may still be wondering what kind of Esthetician jobs are out there. You will be surprised that there are way more out there than you think.
Also, Esthetician jobs don't have to be limited to only working in a spa or medical clinic. Let's take a look at all the possibilities out there.
Entry Level Esthetician Jobs
The most challenging part about starting a new career is trying to get your foot in the door. When you're first starting, any experience is a good experience. Another thing to consider is what job is available to you right out of school.
It may not be your dream job or position right away. There is a high chance you will need to learn the ropes of the Esthetics industry before you will be gaining any kind of clientele.
When first entering the workforce, it's essential to follow your interests and get a starting job with a specific specialty. If your Esthetics school helped you decide what you want to specialize in, then it may be easier to make a decision.
This is where you decide to work in a spa, salon, or medical clinic. The best starting jobs in most of these places are either as a Receptionist or Assistant.
Assisting or becoming a Receptionist is the easiest way to learn the ins and outs of the company you work for. It's also an opportunity to move up from an Assistant/Receptionist to a higher role within the same company.
Anything to get the ball rolling will help you get your dream Esthetician job down the road.
Spa Esthetician Jobs
The most common place you may find Estheticians are working in is spas or salons. Estheticians are skin care specialists, and the majority of services they provide in the salons are skincare-related.
Estheticians who are working in spas will focus on cosmetic services. Facials, waxing, body wraps, and makeup applications are just some of the services available. Usually, these Estheticians will not be able to diagnose clients with skin conditions professionally.
Estheticians in spas will recognize if there is a potential risk to performing your service and recommend seeing a Dermatologist. According to Esthetician EDU, these are services that are typically performed in spas/salons:
- Acne Treatments
- Scalp Massage
- Aromatherapy
- Waxing/Hair Removal
- Chemical Peels
- Microdermabrasion
- Extraction
- Makeup Application
- Facials
- Body Wraps/Masks
- Massage
Most of the time, Estheticians are trained to provide a wide variety of services. However, as your career continues, new opportunities can arrive where you only specialize in one particular service.
Resorts, spas, salons are all exciting areas to get a job as an Esthetician. Working in these places may also come along with other responsibilities. This may include daily chores, opening/closing the establishment, or other managerial/administrative tasks.
Working in spas is a great way to start a career in Esthetics. There are always various things going on, so you'll be sure to get great experience in a workplace that offers variety.
Medical Esthetician Jobs
According to The National Laser Institute, "Medical Estheticians are trained and licensed skin care specialists who work together with other medical professionals in a medical setting doing laser and light-based procedures."
Medical Estheticians provide more intense services that a regular Esthetician may not be able to perform. If you are interested in being a Medical Esthetician, you will often find yourself working in a medical setting.
This can include dermatology clinics, medical spas, hospitals, or other medical clinics. However, these services are becoming more popular, and other salons or health-based establishments are adopting them.
Procedures and services that Medical Estheticians can provide:
- Chemical Peels
- Permanent Makeup
- Pre/Post Surgical Skincare
- LED Light Therapy
- Hair Removal
- Laser Treatments
- Microdermabrasion
- Manual Lymphatic Drainage
These are the most popular services that are available. However, Medical Estheticians can be trained in more procedures.
While these services listed above are medical-related, the Beauty Schools Directory also states that "Medical Estheticians can't perform any medical treatments."
However, Medical Estheticians are some of the highest-paid Estheticians if you don't have a medical background.
Medical Estheticians are eligible to perform other services like assessing skin trauma or helping those with certain skin conditions.
If a skin condition seems to be more serious, a Medical Esthetician should refer the client to a Dermatologist.
Master Esthetician Jobs
The Beauty Schools Directory defines a Master Esthetician as "an Esthetician that receives additional training in Esthetics past the basic level, which allows them to perform a broader range of services."
Master Estheticians also have the ability to work with other medical professionals in the health and beauty industry. To make sure this is a viable career option, check your state board of cosmetology because licensing requirements and availability vary by each state.
To become a Master or Medical Esthetician, additional hours of training are mandatory. Both these types of Estheticians will have to learn more intensive techniques. They are required to understand the following:
- Health Care Laws
- Skin sciences and disorders
- Laser, Radio Frequency, and Light Therapies
- Post-Burn Care
- How Hormones Impact The Skin
- Lymphatic Drainage
Keep in mind these are a small portion of what Master Estheticians are capable of providing. You may be wondering what the main differences between an Esthetician and a Medical/Master Esthetician are?
It can depend on what state you are currently residing in. Some states will offer two tiers of licensing for Estheticians. This means you can be an Esthetician or going through additional training and courses to be licensed as a Medical/Master Esthetician.
Possible place of work for Master Estheticians:
- Plastic Surgeon Office
- Dermatologist Office
- Tattoo Removal Office
- Medical Spas
Esthetician RN/ Nurse Jobs
RN or Nurse Estheticians are also different from being a Master or Medical Estheticians. As the name suggests, a Nurse Esthetician is a registered nurse who can provide advanced, non-surgical cosmetic services.
The skills of a Nurse Esthetician are far more advanced than a regular Esthetician. They can also work with doctors or other medical providers to help treat certain patients who have certain illnesses/accidents that want cosmetic adjustments.
Having a medical background differentiates between a Nurse Esthetician and a regular Esthetician. Nurse Estheticians usually have a medical degree in addition to an Esthetician license. Of course, it can vary by state.
Services that Nurse Estheticians can provide:
- Botox
- Dermal Fillers
- Tattoo Removal
Nurse Estheticians also have an extensive educational background. They have more knowledge regarding biology, anatomy, physiology, etc. Depending on your state, to be eligible to become a Nurse Esthetician, requirements may be the following:
- Associate Degree in Nursing
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing
- Clinical/Practical Experience
- Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist
Traveling/Cruise Ship Esthetician Jobs
Like most jobs nowadays, there is an option to travel and do what you love. A Traveling Esthetician does just that. There is always a change in your environment, like your workplace, clients, and co-workers.
Traveling Estheticians can work in:
- Resorts
- Retreats
- Cruise Ships
Or any other area that allows them to travel for seasonal/temporary work.
Traveling can be exhausting. Some negatives of Traveling Estheticians can always be having to start over. Chances are you will always be seeing new people and won't have the opportunity to build a clientele base.
Licensing and requirements can also be confusing because it can depend on many factors like your state or employer. Resorts and Cruise Ships may require even more licenses or certifications.
If working on a Cruise Ship, it is unlikely that you will have time off since most people who do work on Cruise Ships are providing a service every day for the cruise duration.
Depending on where you are traveling to, you may need visas, work permits, or other papers to allow you to both travel and work.
If you are up for these sorts of challenges or are feeling adventurous, becoming a Travel Esthetician can be the right fit.
On the upside, you are always visiting interesting, exotic places, meeting new people, and gaining international experience. Some may argue that this kind of life experience is priceless.
Freelance Esthetician
Freelancing is an excellent option for Estheticians who want to take charge of their work schedule or like to work independently.
It's essential to be highly passionate about Esthetics to carry on the motivation and discipline yourself to work.
You will need to figure out how to market yourself as a business, have exceptional communication skills, and have mastered a wide range of Esthetic services.
Freelance Estheticians can take many routes like:
- Becoming An Educator
- Working As a Brand Representative
- Work With High-Profile Clientele
- On-Call Services
There are hundreds of freelancing websites that help all kinds of freelancers get their foot in the workforce. Websites like LinkedIn, Upwork, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter can help freelancers find work quickly.
Also, don't neglect social media and client testimonials. If a client can talk about a fantastic experience with your Esthetics service, ask if you can share it on your social media platforms. Never underestimate the power of Word-Of-Mouth Marketing.
Esthetician Salary
The main question everyone is asking. How much can you make as an Esthetician? Of course, it can vary by state and what license you have.
On average, you can expect to make $40,000 a year as an Esthetician. Keep in mind this is the bare minimum for entry-level positions. Also, keep in mind the cost of your schooling.
According to the Beauty Schools Directory, a Medical Esthetician can make on average about $46,020 a year. Nurse Estheticians can make $60,000 a year on average.
Many factors come into play when it comes to salary. It very much depends on:
- Level Of Education
- Licensing
- Place Of Work
- Experience/Expertise
Online Sources For Work
Various websites have jobs listed for Estheticians. Among the popular are:
- Indeed
- FlexJobs
- ZipRecruiter
- SimplyHired
For beauty-related jobs boards, check out:
- Beauty Career
- Beauty Force/Force Brands
- Beauty Leap
- Behind The Chair
For Freelancers:
- Freelance
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- Linked In
Esthetician Employment Contracts
Employment contracts depend on a load of different factors. Each spa, salon, medical clinic, or doctor's office will have its terms, policies, restrictions, rules, etc.
If you are freelancing, it's essential to find a template online or seek legal advice on drafting up a valid contract for your clients.
When freelancing, it's crucial to make sure you are covered for any possible incident that may arise. Especially when performing services in Esthetics, you can never be too protected.
Esthetician Interview Questions
Popular questions that may be asked during an interview are:
- Talk about an experience where you made a mistake and learned from it.
- How do you address inappropriate client behavior?
- How would you handle a situation if a client has an allergic reaction?
- Tell us about yourself, your background/experience.
- How would you deal with a client that feels embarrassed?
Always research the company you are interviewing for. It shows that you have a huge interest in working and that you are a serious candidate.
Esthetician Continuing Education
As new techniques and technologies develop and grow, so will the need for education. As an Esthetician, you are never finished learning even when you finish school and become licensed.
Depending on your state, various courses, training, or seminars should be available to specialize your expertise. This will be required if you are looking to become a Medical, Master, or Nurse Esthetician.
Summary
Don't be fooled; the road to becoming an Esthetician isn't an easy one. However, if you are genuinely passionate about Esthetics and helping others, it is a highly fulfilling job.
First, research all the schools in your area that can provide you the proper training and education.
Once you enroll in your school, you will need to complete on average 600 hours of training. Ideally, this school will prepare you to take your licensing exam and help you start in the workforce.
You may need to find entry-level jobs like an Assistant or Receptionist when first starting out. The goal is to grow and gain experience and move up to being a full-blown Esthetician.
Continuing your education will always be necessary. Whether you want to further your skills as an Esthetician or start your practice, education will be required.
Once you are established, you can go wherever you desire, work for or with anyone you please, and start building a loyal clientele that will follow you anywhere you go
For more information regarding how to become an Esthetician, click on the following sources below.
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