Is an Esthetician Degree Worth It? (In-Depth Guide)

An esthetician is a skin care specialist who provides services like facials, waxing, and microdermabrasion to help clients improve their skin’s health and appearance.

Estheticians typically complete a cosmetology or esthetics program to obtain the proper training and licensure for this career.

But is pursuing an esthetician degree truly worth the time, effort, and investment required?

There are many factors to consider when determining if this career path is right for you.

Educational Requirements

Most states require estheticians to complete a formal education program and pass a state board exam to obtain their license.

Esthetics Programs

An esthetics program focuses solely on skin care. These programs usually take 600 hours to complete at a community college or cosmetology school. Course topics include:

• Anatomy and physiology
• Skin analysis and conditions
• Facial treatments
• Hair removal
• Makeup application
• Business practices

Some schools also offer master esthetics programs, which take 1,200-1,800 hours to complete. These advanced programs include topics like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, and medical esthetics.

Cosmetology Programs

A cosmetology program covers hair, skin, and nails. These programs take 1,500 hours or longer. Only about 25-50% focuses specifically on skin care and esthetics topics.

Costs

Tuition at an esthetics school averages $5,000-10,000 for a basic program. Equipment, textbooks, and exam fees are about $1,000-2,000 more. Cosmetology programs average $10,000-15,000 in total costs.Financial aid like grants and scholarships can offset some costs. Working while in school also helps significantly.

Licensing Requirements

All states require estheticians to be licensed to provide services. Key steps include:

• Completing an approved training program
• Passing a state board exam
• Submitting a license application with fees

Then maintaining licensure by completing continuing education (CE) classes every 1-2 years.

Job Outlook and Salary Potential

The demand for estheticians is growing much faster than average for all occupations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• Esthetician job growth is projected at 17% from 2020-2030
• Median pay was $36,090 per year or $17.36 per hour in 2021

Skin care has become a major industry, driven by self-care trends and growing consumer budgets for beauty services.Estheticians can increase pay by specializing in areas like:

• Medical esthetics
• Working for high-end spas or dermatology offices
• Opening an independent studio once experienced

Top earners make $70,000-80,000 per year by building an exclusive clientele.

Pros of an Esthetics Career

There are many advantages that make an esthetician degree worthwhile:

1. Lower Startup Costs

Opening an independent spa or salon requires much less investment compared to other small business options.A basic treatment room setup costs roughly $10,000.

Renting a studio space averages $1,500/month. Compare that to a restaurant requiring $250k or more to launch.

2. Flexible Schedule

Estheticians often set their own schedules around client appointments.

This flexibility allows for good work-life balance while raising a family or transitioning careers.

3. Creativity and Self-Expression

Skin care involves lots of creative opportunities like designing custom facials or makeup looks.

The ability to express artistry and develop treatment plans makes this a rewarding field.

4. Helping People Feel Good

Clients often form strong personal connections with their estheticians. Improving self-confidence through great skin has immense value for people.

5. Lower Physical Impact

Unlike fitness or healthcare fields, skin care is relatively low-impact physically. The job involves light activity like facial massage and moving between rooms.

6. Recession Resistant Industry

Even during economic downturns, people spend money on beauty services.

Skin care is considered an affordable luxury that clients are reluctant to cut from budgets completely.

Cons of an Esthetics Career

However, there are also downsides to consider with this career path:

1. Licensing Requirements

Maintaining licensure through continuing education involves extra expenses and administrative work. Failing to meet license renewal requirements can put your career on hold.

2. Independent Contractor Status

Most estheticians operate as independent contractors instead of employees. This means being responsible for:

• Managing your own taxes
• No employer benefits like insurance or retirement plans
• Inconsistent income and need to market constantly to build a clientele

3. Physically Demanding

Common issues like back pain, wrist strain, or foot discomfort result from long hours on your feet and performing precise movements.

Good ergonomics and self-care is essential.

4. Safety Procedures

Strict standards for sanitation and safety procedures must be followed to avoid spreading infection between clients. This involves diligent effort and compliance awareness.

5. Investment Risks

For estheticians opening their own studio, there is financial risk involved if profitability is not achieved.

Marketing effectively to attract clients is critical.

Key Skills Needed

Estheticians require both technical and interpersonal skills to be successful:

Technical Skills

• Analyzing skin conditions
• Performing treatments like facials, waxing, chemical peels
• Following safety and sanitation protocols
• Using tools like microdermabrasion machines, LED light therapy, dermaplaning blades
• Applying makeup professionally
• Advising clients on proper home skin care routines
• Selling retail skin care products

Interpersonal Skills

• Customer service oriented
• Attentive listening and consultation advice
• Comfortable conversing while working closely with clients
• Managing appointments and client retention
• Building trust and relationships with clients
• Educating clients on skin care topics

Steps to Become an Esthetician

If this career appeals to you, here is an overview of the key steps to become a licensed esthetician:

1. Graduate high school: A high school diploma or GED equivalent is required for enrollment in most esthetics programs.
   
   Taking science courses like chemistry helps prepare for program coursework.
2. Enroll in an esthetics program: Choose an accredited program at a community college, career/technical college, or cosmetology school.
   
   Consider full-time vs part-time schedule and financing options.
3. Complete student clinic hours: Most programs require students to complete practice services on real clients in an on-site student salon environment.
   
   Take advantage of these opportunities to sharpen your skills.
4. Pass the state board exam: Upon completing your program’s curriculum requirements, register to take your state’s esthetics license exam.
   
   Both a written test and practical exam are typically involved.
5. Apply for your license: Once you pass the exam, submit a completed application with fees to your state regulatory board.
   
   Once approved, you will receive your official license document.
6. Seek employment: With license in hand, start applying for esthetician job openings at salons or spas.
   
   Some apprenticeship programs also provide excellent on-the-job training for new grads.
7. Continue education: As you gain experience, take advanced classes or seminars to continue building your skillset.
   
   This will expand your service offerings and earning potential.
8. Renew your license: Check your state’s requirements for license renewal through continuing education credits. Maintain proper CE to provide licensed services legally.

Finding the Right Esthetics Program

Choosing the right esthetics school is crucial to get quality training as a beginner.

Here are key factors to evaluate:

Accreditation Status

Verify accreditation through an oversight organization like COMTA or NACCAS. This ensures standardized curriculum and instructor qualifications are met.

Duration and Schedule

Consider your availability for full or part-time enrollment. Programs range from 4 months up to 1 year for advanced courses.

Tuition Costs

Compare program costs along with available financial aid like scholarships or grants. Avoid overpriced schools or predatory private lending.

Facilities and Equipment

Tour the campus in-person to assess the classrooms, clinic space, tools provided, etc. Modernized facilities indicate investment level.

Instructor Experience

Meet the staff, especially your main instructors. Check their background and years of experience working in the industry.

Job Placement Rates

Ask schools for their post-graduation employment rates. This indicates how well they prepare students for the working world.

Student Reviews

Check independent sites like Facebook or Yelp for ratings and reviews of the program from former graduates.

This provides unbiased insight into the true student experience.By selecting the best school for your needs, you’ll start your esthetics career off right with a strong foundation of knowledge.

Getting Licensed in Your State

Licensing requirements vary in each state for estheticians. But the general process involves:

1. Completing the Application: Forms are available through your state cosmetology board website. Provide details on your training credentials and pass a background check.
2. Taking State Board Exams: Both practical skills and written tests must be passed to demonstrate competency. Exam fees range from $50-150.
3. Paying Licensing Fees: Initial license fees typically range from $25-100, sometimes more. Renewal fees are required every 1-2 years as well to maintain status.
4. Meeting Continuing Education Requirements: Most states mandate license holders to complete CE hours (often 12-24) through classes or seminars before renewing.
5. Submitting Renewal Application: To stay licensed, submit a renewal form with any documentation for CE hours completed a minimum of 30 days before expiration.

Following your state’s protocol ensures you can legally provide esthetics services after graduation.

Finding a Rewarding Esthetician Job

Once licensed, an esthetician’s earning potential often comes down to where you work. Consider these job options:

Spas and Salons

Most estheticians begin their career at an existing spa or salon. Compensation typically involves:

• Commission – Average 50-60% payout per service
• Hourly wage – Usually state minimum base rate + tips
• Retail bonuses on product sales

Pros include steady client traffic and facility maintenance covered. Cons involve long hours, less control over schedule, and smaller income percentages kept.

Medical Offices

Working for a cosmetic surgeon, dermatologist or plastic surgeon office pays more. Average national pay rates are $25-35 per hour.

Choose medical esthetics training or apprenticeship to qualify for these positions. Expertise in chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser technology is mandatory.

Independent Practice

Estheticians can open their own studio once established in the field. This allows the highest earning potential but also the most risk and responsibility.

Pros include keeping 100% of revenue and total control over which services are offered. Cons include significant startup investment, long hours, and constant marketing needed to attract clients.

Maximizing Your Income

All estheticians rely heavily on building repeat clientele to boost income. Focus on advanced training, great service, and smart business practices to succeed.

Advance Your Skills

Take classes beyond the basics covered in esthetics school.

Specialize in areas like eyelash extensions, spray tanning, microblading, microneedling, etc.

Offer Membership Packages

Reward loyal customers with discounted packages for multiple facials or treatments purchased upfront. This incentivizes repeat business.

Invest in a Specialty Service

Add a niche treatment like dermaplaning or LED light therapy. Diversify your menu to attract new clients and stand out from competitors.

Develop Your Brand Identity

Create a logo, tagline, website, business cards, and branded studio amenities to build a polished image that reflects your style.

Utilize Social Media

Promote your services heavily on platforms like Instagram or Facebook. Post before/after photos, behind-the-scenes content, special deals, etc.

Stay Current on Trends

Read trade publications, follow influencers on social platforms, attend conferences and continually educate yourself to offer the latest in-demand services.

FAQs: Common Esthetician Questions Answered

Still evaluating if pursuing this career is the right move? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Does an esthetician need a college degree?

A college degree is not required to become an esthetician.

A high school diploma or equivalent is needed for enrollment in a cosmetology or esthetics program. 

Learn more