How to Become an Esthetician

Skincare remains a thriving industry, and the demand for skilled professionals continues to increase. More people are turning to licensed estheticians for treatments, guidance, and results they can’t get from over-the-counter products.

If you’ve been thinking about turning your passion for skincare into a career, this guide explains how to become an esthetician step by step. You’ll get a clear picture of what to expect, from choosing a school and meeting state requirements to earning your license and starting your career.

What Is an Esthetician?

An esthetician is a licensed skincare specialist who helps people take better care of their skin. You might work with clients to:

Do facials and skin treatments
Recommend the right products
Remove unwanted hair (waxing, sugaring, tweezing)
Perform body treatments like wraps or scrubs

Some estheticians focus on relaxation and beauty, while others lean more towards a clinical approach. You’ll find estheticians in all kinds of places, including salons, spas, medspas, and even dermatology offices.

You might also hear terms like “medical esthetician” or “paramedical esthetician.” These are estheticians who work in medical settings, usually with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. They still start with the same basic license but may take extra training for more advanced procedures.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Become an Esthetician

Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements

Before you start your training, there are a few basic things you’ll need to have in place. Most states require you to:

Be at least 16 to 18 years old
Have a high school diploma or GED

Some states might also ask for a background check, proof of immunizations, or other basic documentation before you can enroll in an esthetics program. It’s worth taking a few minutes to look up your state’s licensing board so you know exactly what’s expected where you live.

Step 2: Choose and Enroll in an Accredited Esthetics Program

Once you’ve met the basics, it’s time to find the right school. Look for a state-approved esthetics program. These are usually offered at vocational schools, community colleges, or private beauty academies. Make sure the state board approves your program of cosmetology so the hours you complete actually count toward your license.

Most programs combine classroom learning with practical, hands-on training. You’ll learn how to:

Analyze skin and consult with clients
Cleanse, exfoliate, and do extractions
Understand product ingredients and how to use them safely
Follow sanitation rules and keep your workspace clean
Apply makeup professionally

Some schools also teach business skills or customer service to help you hit the ground running once you graduate.

Step 3: Complete Required Training Hours

Every state has its rules about how many hours of training you need. However, most training programs usually last somewhere around 600 to 750 hours.

During that time, you’ll split your days between classroom lessons and hands-on practice. You’ll work with real clients under the supervision of licensed instructors, building your skills and confidence before you head into the exam process.

Step 4: Pass the Licensing Exam

Once you’ve finished your training hours, the next step is passing your state’s licensing exam. Most states include both a written test and a hands-on practical. You’ll be asked to demonstrate key skills, including draping, cleansing, and waxing, all while following proper sanitation protocols. Some states also include a separate exam that covers local laws and regulations.

Your school will likely provide practice tests and help you get comfortable with the exam format. Still, it’s a good idea to review your state’s exam guidelines and carve out some extra time to study on your own.

Step 5: Obtain State Licensure

After you pass your exam, you’ll submit your results, school transcript, and application fee to your state board. Some states let you handle everything online, while others still require a paper application.

If you plan to move to another state in the future, it’s important to review reciprocity agreements. Some states will let you transfer your license more easily if you’ve completed a certain number of training hours or have some work experience under your belt.

Step 6: Consider Advanced Certifications and Specializations

After getting licensed, you can start branching out. Many estheticians choose to earn advanced certifications in areas such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or lymphatic drainage. Besides sharpening your skills, specializing also increases your earning potential and helps you stand out in a busy field.

Step 7: Pursue Continuing Education

In many states, continuing education is a requirement for maintaining an active license. But even if it is not required where you live, it is still worth the effort. Staying current with new techniques, products, and safety protocols helps you remain competitive and deliver the best results to your clients.

You can find workshops, webinars, and advanced courses through skincare brands, trade shows, or professional organizations.

Building Your Esthetician Career

Where to Begin After Licensure

Once you’re licensed, it’s time to start gaining real experience. Entry-level roles in spas, salons, or wellness centers are a great way to get comfortable working with clients and applying your skills in a professional setting. Along the way, you’ll build your portfolio, learn from coworkers, and start forming your client base.

Strong client relationships can make or break your success. Be a good listener, communicate clearly, and keep your space clean and inviting. These simple habits go a long way, and they’re often what turn first-time clients into loyal regulars.

Protect Your Career With Insurance

Even if you’re just starting out as an esthetician, challenges can arise. A client could have a reaction to a product or misunderstand a treatment, and suddenly, you’re dealing with more than just skincare—the kind of fallout that can include complaints, legal fees, or damage to your reputation.

That’s why professional liability insurance is worth having from day one. It protects you in case of claims or accidents, and many employers require it before hiring. Carrying insurance shows that you take your work seriously and that you care about client safety.

NACAMS offers coverage designed specifically for estheticians so you can stay focused on your craft without constantly second-guessing what might go wrong. Plus, NACAMS coverage follows you across all 50 states, which is ideal if you freelance, travel for work events, or plan to move in the future.

Ready to Get Started?

Now that you know how to become an esthetician, it’s time to take action. Find a school that fits your goals, start your training, and begin building a career you can be proud of.

And when you’re ready to work with clients, protect yourself with Esthetician Insurance from NACAMS. It’s designed for estheticians like you so you can focus on your craft and grow your career with confidence.

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