Beauty & Personal Care
How to become an Esthetician
From no experience: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.
- Time to get there
- 6–12 months
- Typical pay
- $32k–$52k
- Starting from
- No experience
Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from no experience and includes any licence or programme legally required, not just course length.
See esthetician jobs open nowThe route
Complete an esthetics program
Usually 600–750 hours: facials, waxing, chemical peels and skin analysis.
Course that covers thisSkin Care Consultation for EstheticiansUdemy · around $199.99Pass the state exam
Written and practical, with heavy emphasis on sanitation.
State esthetician licence
Start in a spa or medspa
Medspas pay more and open the door to advanced modalities.
Add an advanced modality
Laser or microneedling certification, where your state permits it.
Laser / advanced esthetics certification
- Browse jobs now
Destination
Esthetician
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