Esthetician Careers Information
If you have a passion for skin care, and a love for working with others, then a career as an esthetician might be right for you. Estheticians are skincare specialists trained in the art of performing services that enhance or beautify the skin. They provide services like facials, massages, chemical peels, and waxing.
Esthetician Careers & Degrees
Estheticians are part of the fastest growing field within the personal care industry. They are employed by salons and spas, in addition to physicians’ and health practitioners’ offices. They are trained to identify skin conditions, and provide advice on successful treatments. They use a variety of products from lotions and oils to steam machines and lighted mirrors to ensure clients receive safe and effective results.
In addition to performing facials, full body treatments, and makeup application, some estheticians with proper training can provide advanced laser treatments for removal of hair, scars, varicose veins and other conditions.
Esthetician Careers Path
Specific requirements for estheticians vary by state; however, most do require students have a high school diploma or the equivalent. In order to practice as an esthetician, students must enroll in a cosmetology program.
According to the American Association of Cosmetology Schools (AACS) the national average requirements for esthetics programs is roughly 650 hours. Though hourly requirements vary widely from state to state, full-time students can generally complete esthetics programs in six months,
Once the program is complete, students are eligible to apply for state licensure. These exams may consist of a written and verbal portion, as well as a practical skills test.
Esthetician Careers Compatible Personality Traits
Patient, personable, detail-oriented, and well organized. Great communication skills are a must.
Esthetician Careers Salary Expectations
Roughly 28,210 skin care specialists were employed in 2009. The average annual income was $28,580. The middle 50 percent ranged from $20,240 to $40,380. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $16,310, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $51,490.
Employment was greatest in personal care services, such as spas or salons, followed by physicians’ offices. Income was highest in general medical and surgical hospitals, as well as physicians’ and health practitioners’ offices.
Esthetician Careers Job Outlook
Employment for skin care specialists is expected to grow by 38 percent over the 2008-2018 decade. This increase is much faster than average for all occupations, and is projected to have the most growth throughout the personal care industry, which as a whole will increase by 20 percent.
Positions will arise in full-service spas and salons, and opportunities will be best for those with licensure to provide a variety of services. Additionally, positions will be plentiful for those applying for entry-level positions.
Slightly Off the Footpath
- Hair Stylist
- Cosmetologist
Sources: bls.gov/oco/ocos332.htm;
