How To Become An Esthetician: Required Skills and Expected Salary

 Embarking on your new career as an esthetician is an exciting time. 

There are a few routes to reaching the all-important licensure, and they vary from state to state.

We’re examining the steps to becoming an esthetician today. So get ready to start your new journey!

What is an esthetician?

Estheticians are skincare specialists who’ve been trained to treat a wide range of skin concerns. Through various techniques, they treat and educate their clients on best practices for continued health. While usually not medical professionals, they frequently work in tandem with dermatologists. 

Some states allow apprenticeship programs to take the place of formal education, but this isn’t common. Fewer than 20 don’t require esthetician school, and all have set hours and curriculum. All licensed estheticians must pass state exams before they can practice.

Steps to become an esthetician

Once you’ve found the requirements for your state, the next steps are pretty similar. Through a combination of education and experience, you’ll be prepared to pass the required exams. After that, your education isn’t complete. Most have continuing education standards you’ll have to meet as you progress in your career. 

Enroll in an esthetician school or program

As we’ve mentioned, most states require students to enroll in an esthetician school. They’ve tailored the curriculum to the exam, so make sure you’re taking notes! 

There are plenty of institutions that offer training programs. Typically, you can find them at beauty schools, community colleges, and even some high schools. Other options are technical schools and adult career centers. 

However you begin your studies, there’s usually a prescribed number of hours you’ll need to attend. On average, expect between 600 and 1,000 hours of class time. 

Apprenticeships are another path you may take. The benefit of this approach is that you spend most of your time in real-world settings working directly with clients. You’ll also spend more time one-on-one with your supervisor during your course of study. 

Unlike some other experience-based programs, you’ll probably get paid for your time. However, states that offer this option also require significantly more hours of experience, usually between 1,200 and 2,000. You may also be required to take some courses depending on your location.

Earn an esthetics license for your state

You can sit for the licensure exam once you’ve completed your education and hours. Most have a two-part exam that includes a written and hands-on portion. Demonstrating your skills under pressure can be stressful, but your program should prepare you adequately. 

Trust your training when you’re feeling it!

Many states use the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) exams, and study materials are readily available. Most of the questions cover sanitation and laws related to the field. Other areas usually tested are science and specific concepts.

You'll get your credentials when you’ve demonstrated that you’ve met the licensing requirements and passed the exams as required by state law. Now, you’re ready to begin working with your clients!

Gain experience and build a clientele

We recommend finding a mentor to guide you as a beginning esthetician. You’ll benefit from their years of experience in business and practice. For the most part, you’ll start out working in a spa or salon with other estheticians. If you’ve chosen to pursue a more medically focused practice, you might work with a dermatologist.

As you become an experienced technician, you’ll build a roster of regular clients. They’re putting their trust in your hands and keep returning if you’ve earned it. 

Continue your education through certification and ongoing training

Developing your skill set is an important part of continuing your education. Maintaining your license also requires a set number of hours. Most states require between five and ten to keep renewing your credentials.

You’ll want to gain certification in new techniques throughout your career as well. Working with a mentor here is key. They can recommend which are the most cost-effective to add to your toolbox. Achieving a new skill allows you to offer more skincare services to your clients. 

As you build your business, more income allows you to go out on your own eventually!

Great skills for estheticians to have and develop

You’ll learn most of what you need to be successful after you’ve graduated from your program. Getting out into the real world and practicing helps you realize what you love and what you’d prefer to avoid. 

Some estheticians specialize in hair removal or facials, others in chemical peels or microdermabrasion. You’ll need specialized skills to find true success whichever way you go. 

Learning how to work with your clients is vital to your success. Not every experience will be stellar, and knowing how to navigate them, during and after, puts you in the driver’s seat. You may also want to take some business classes to help you maximize your skills. Subjects like marketing and bookkeeping can help you thrive!

Common questions about becoming an esthetician

If you’re still unsure about whether an esthetician program is right for you, read on. We’ve gathered some of the most critical information for you here.

How much does an esthetician program cost?

Training program costs vary around the country and involve several things. You’re paying tuition, supplies, and other fees that can add up. 

Tuition costs range depending on the type of institution you’re going through. Community college fees are usually between $4,000 and $6,000. Private training schools are more expensive, ranging from $6,000 to $12,000. 

Another option, master esthetician, will cost you even more. Because the title requires more time and effort, expect to pay for it. They start around $20,000.

Student supply kits are necessary to complete your courses. Think of them like textbooks or lab fees in a traditional college setting. Check with your program before enrolling; they can cost up to $1,000. Some roll these costs into tuition, but not all.

You’ll also need books for your program, and most schools charge registration fees of around $100 to $300. 

How long does it take to become an esthetician?

Programs geared towards esthetician training usually run around six to nine months. That 600 to 1,200-hour requirement is met during your time in school. As we mentioned, apprenticeships take much longer and may require up to a full year before sitting for licensing exams.

And remember, if you’re in this as a career, you’re likely always to be learning!

What’s the average salary for estheticians?

Depending on where you live and your level of education, salaries range widely. The average salary for estheticians in the United States is around $50,000. Working in more affluent areas will boost your salary because your clientele can pay for your services. 

On the low end, some estheticians make around $32,000 for those just starting. Once established, and depending on your specialty, you could make upwards of $90,000.

Bosses in Beauty guides new and experienced beauty businesses on the road to success

Beginning a new business is a challenge, we know! We started Bosses in Beauty to provide a roadmap to success for estheticians at every stage in their careers. Whether you’re just starting or getting ready to take it to the next level, we’re here to help. 

Check out our website for access to our courses and mentorship programs. Don’t let another day of your future pass you by!