Skincare Specialists: Salary, career path, job outlook, education and more

Education Required
Skincare specialists typically complete a state-approved cosmetology or esthetician program. Although some high schools offer vocational training, most people receive their training from a postsecondary vocational school. The Associated Skin Care Professionals organization offers a State Regulation Guide, which includes the number of prerequisite hours required to complete a cosmetology program.
Job Outlook
The projected percent change in employment from 2016 to 2026: 13% (Faster than average)
(The average growth rate for all occupations is 7 percent.)
Licenses/Certifications
After completing an approved cosmetology or esthetician program, skincare specialists take a written and practical exam to get a state license. Licensing requirements vary by state, so those interested should contact their state board.
Median pay: How much do Skincare Specialists make?
$30,270 Annual Salary
$14.55 per hour

Skincare specialists cleanse and beautify the face and body to enhance a persons appearance.

What do Skincare Specialists do?

Skincare specialists typically do the following:

  • Evaluate clients skin condition and appearance
  • Discuss available treatments and determine which products will improve clients skin quality
  • Remove unwanted hair, using wax, lasers, or other approved treatments
  • Clean the skin before applying makeup
  • Recommend skin care products, such as cleansers, lotions, or creams
  • Teach and advise clients on how to apply makeup, and how to take care of their skin
  • Refer clients to another skincare specialist, such as a dermatologist, for serious skin problems
  • Disinfect equipment and clean work areas

Skincare specialists give facials, full-body treatments, and head and neck massages to improve the health and appearance of the skin. Some may provide other skin care treatments, such as peels, masks, and scrubs, to remove dead or dry skin.

In addition, skincare specialists create daily skincare routines for clients based on skin analysis and help them understand which skincare products will work best for them. A growing number of specialists actively sell skincare products, such as cleansers, lotions, and creams.

Those who operate their own salons have managerial duties that include hiring, firing, and supervising workers, as well as keeping business and inventory records, ordering supplies, and arranging for advertising.

Careers for Skincare Specialists

  • Aestheticians
  • Electrologists
  • Electrolysis needle operators
  • Electrolysis operators
  • Electrolysists
  • Estheticians
  • Facialists
  • Licensed estheticians
  • Medical estheticians
  • Skin care technicians

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