✂️ Beauty & Personal Services ↑ 17% growth · Much faster than average

Esthetician / Skincare Specialist

Estheticians perform facials, chemical peels, waxing, lash extensions, and body treatments. Medical estheticians work in dermatology and plastic surgery offices — doing laser treatments and microneedling — and earn significantly more.

$38,000 Median Salary
73K US Jobs
4–6 months Training
$5,000–$12,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$26,000
Median
$38,000
Experienced
$70,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

17%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Much faster than average
73K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
State Esthetician License
Required Credential
State Esthetician License (220 hrs for FL basic; 260 for full)

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
Esthetics Diploma
Program Length
4–6 months
Typical Tuition
$5,000–$12,000
Work Setting
Day spas, medical spas, resorts, dermatology offices, self-employed
🏆 Credential Required: State Esthetician License (220 hrs for FL basic; 260 for full)

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Esthetician / Skincare Specialist involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Day spas environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Vocational School
⭐ 76

Dawn Career Institute

📍 Newark, DE

Newark, DE career training school focused on healthcare and trades. Industry-modeled, hands-on curriculum. LPN and HVAC ...

LPN/Practical NursingCNA/Nursing AssistantMedical AssistingHVACEsthetics/Cosmetology
Vocational School
⭐ 75

Empire Beauty School - Bangor

📍 Bangor, ME

Empire Beauty School Bangor campus (Broadway location). Full and part-time cosmetology and esthetics with hands-on salon...

CosmetologyEstheticsCosmetology Instructor Training
Vocational School
⭐ 77

Aveda Institute - Augusta

📍 Augusta, ME

Aveda's Augusta, Maine location. Hands-on training with externships. 80% of externships lead to job offers. Strong salon...

CosmetologyEstheticsMassage Therapy
Vocational School
⭐ 77

Paul Mitchell The School - Portsmouth

📍 Portsmouth, NH

Paul Mitchell partner school on the NH Seacoast. Cosmetology and esthetics programs with global Paul Mitchell brand supp...

CosmetologyEstheticsBarberingCosmetology Instructor Training

🗺️ Esthetician / Skincare Specialist by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: