As more people prioritize healthy, glowing skin, the spotlight on skincare keeps growing. You’ve probably heard the word “esthetician” tossed around in spas, salons, or even on social media. But what exactly does it mean, and what does an esthetician do?
In this article, we’ll go over the basics: what estheticians are, the services they provide, how they’re trained, and why their work matters.
Key Takeaways
The work of an esthetician combines science, artistry, and wellness. Their services go beyond providing surface-level treatments to helping people look and feel their best from the outside in.
Definition — What Is an Esthetician?
Simply put, an esthetician is a licensed skincare specialist trained to help people improve the health and appearance of their skin. They help clients manage acne, dryness, texture, and overall tone using professional techniques and treatments.
It’s easy to mix up estheticians with similar roles, such as cosmetologists or medical estheticians. A cosmetologist is trained in a broader range of beauty services, including hair and nails, while a medical esthetician works in clinical settings, often assisting with more intensive procedures like laser treatments or pre-/post-op care. Estheticians focus on cosmetic skin care treatments rather than medical procedures.
What Services Do Estheticians Provide?
Facials and Skin Treatments
Facials are the foundation of many estheticians’ services. They usually begin with a thorough cleanse, followed by exfoliation to slough off dead skin cells, and then a mask or moisturizer to hydrate and soothe the skin.
But what really sets a professional facial apart is the skin analysis. The esthetician takes time to assess the client’s skin type, concerns, and goals, then adjusts the products and techniques accordingly.
Hair Removal
Performing hair removal is another important part of an esthetician’s work. Hair removal can include waxing, sugaring, or threading, depending on the client’s preference and skin sensitivity. Each method requires proper training to avoid irritation or damage to the layers of the skin, which is why many clients prefer professional help instead of trying it at home.
Body Treatments
Body treatments are often thought of as a spa luxury, but they serve real skincare purposes too. Scrubs help remove rough, dry patches and improve circulation. Detox wraps can hydrate, soften, and support smoother skin all over.
During these treatments, estheticians use products and massage techniques designed specifically for body care, not just repurposed facial products.
Makeup Application and Consultation
Many estheticians offer makeup application services for weddings, photo shoots, or special events. But even outside of big occasions, clients come in for product advice, tutorials, or seasonal updates to their everyday look.
Estheticians understand how makeup interacts with skin types and conditions, so their recommendations are both aesthetic and practical.
Advanced Services
With the right training and certifications, estheticians may offer more intensive treatments like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and light-based therapies. These options are great for targeting issues like hyperpigmentation, fine lines, or persistent acne. Because they work on deeper layers of the skin, they require a solid understanding of skin function, safety, and aftercare.
Spa vs. Medical Estheticians: Key Differences
Estheticians work in all kinds of settings, but there’s a noticeable difference between those working in traditional spas and those in medical spas.
Spa estheticians focus more on stress relief, surface treatments, and maintenance. Their goal is to keep the skin looking healthy and radiant.
On the other hand, medical estheticians often work under a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They may assist with pre- and post-procedure care and use more advanced tools.
If you’re considering becoming a medical esthetician, check out our guide on how to get licensed in your state.
The Training and Licensing Process
To become an esthetician, you usually have to go through a formal training program first. Most people start at a cosmetology school or sign up for a cosmetology program that teaches the basics like skin anatomy, hygiene, product knowledge, and hands-on techniques.
Every state has different requirements for the number of training hours needed to become an esthetician. In most states, the program typically ranges from 600 to 750 hours, which usually takes about 5 to 9 months to complete, depending on whether you attend full-time or part-time.
Once your training is complete, you’ll need to pass a written and practical exam to earn your license. State licensing is important because it helps maintain a professional standard across the beauty industry.
Many estheticians also take extra courses in advanced treatments or new technologies, especially if they want to offer more services or work in clinical settings.
Continuing education isn’t always mandatory, but it’s definitely something many professionals choose to do.
Where Do Estheticians Work?
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to where estheticians work. You’ll find them in:
- Day spas, salons, and high-end resorts
- Medical settings like dermatology clinics or cosmetic surgery offices
- On-the-go, as freelance or mobile estheticians who bring treatments directly to clients
Some do their work in luxurious, relaxing environments, while others prefer the fast-paced, clinical side of skincare. It all depends on your personality and career goals.
Why Visit an Esthetician?
An esthetician offers professional insight and tailored care that’s hard to replicate at home. They take time to understand a client’s skin, recommend products and treatments that match the client’s needs, and help avoid wasting time (and money) on ineffective routines.
Also, estheticians are often the first to spot irregularities in the skin's layers, which means they can point out potential issues early. On top of that, a visit to the esthetician can be incredibly relaxing. Regular appointments support both the skin’s health and a person’s overall well-being.
How to Choose the Right Esthetician
It’s important to do some research before trusting someone with your skin. Start by checking their credentials. Make sure they graduated from a licensed program and have up-to-date certifications.
During the first consultation, clients should ask questions and bring up any concerns to get a feel for their approach before committing.
It’s also smart to read reviews or ask for referrals. Remember, in addition to being technically skilled, the right esthetician will also make each client feel comfortable, heard, and supported throughout the skincare experience.
Final Thoughts
The work of an esthetician combines science, artistry, and wellness. Their services go beyond providing surface-level treatments to helping people look and feel their best from the outside in.
If you’re serious about caring for your skin or building a career in this field, investing in professional guidance is a smart move. There’s more to skincare than meets the eye, and skin care specialists can help you achieve your skin’s full potential.
