Esthetician

Working Schedule

Estheticians often work flexible schedules with variable hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Typical days can vary from relaxed periods to hectic ones.

Typical Duties

• Clean and analyze skin to determine the best course of treatment. Use magnifying lamps or visors as needed
• Provide facial treatments to cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize the skin, as well as manage complex skin conditions
• Perform extractions to clear clogged pores
• Apply masks, peels, and serums for various skin types and conditions
• Offer consultations to clients, recommending products and daily skincare routines
• Perform body treatments such as wraps, scrubs, and face or body massages
• Conduct hair removal treatments, including waxing, threading, and possibly laser hair removal
• Apply makeup and teach clients makeup application techniques for daily wear or special events
• Adapt treatments according to skin analysis and feedback during the session
• Develop personalized treatment plans to address clients’ specific skincare goals
• Keep records of client treatment plans and progress

Additional Responsibilities

• Stay updated on trends and advancements in skincare and beauty products
• Order and manage inventory of products and supplies. Sell makeup and skincare products
• Build relationships with clients. Encourage repeat appointments
• Educate clients on skin health and protection from environmental damage
• Know about treatment contraindications based on skin conditions or medical history
• Practice proper safety and sanitation protocols. Ensure treatment rooms and equipment are clean and sanitized
• Understand and operate specialized skincare equipment and technology
• Stay current with state licensing requirements. Take continuing education classes, as needed

Soft Skills

• Ability to work independently
• Artistic
• Cooperative
• Customer service
• Dependability
• Empathy
• Endurance to stand on your feet for long periods
• Normal color vision
• Patience
• Steady hands and good hand-eye coordination
• Strong communication skills, including active listening
• Superb attention to detail
• Time management

Technical Skills

• In-depth knowledge of skincare products (and ingredients), techniques, and tools such as:

1. Diagnostic and Analysis Tools: Skin Analyzer Machine, Magnifying Lamp
2. Exfoliation and Skin Resurfacing Tools: Microdermabrasion Machine, Ultrasonic Skin Scrubber, Dermaplaning Tools
3. Hydration and Cleansing Tools: Facial Steamer, HydraFacial Machine, Vacuum Suction Machine
4. Treatment Enhancement Tools: High-Frequency Machine, Galvanic Machine, LED Light Therapy Device, Oxygen Facial Machine, Cryotherapy Device
5. Regenerative and Anti-aging Tools: Microneedling Pen, Chemical Peel Kits
6. Supportive Equipment: Professional Facial Masks and Brushes, Wax Warmers, Electric Massage Tables, Hot Towel Cabinets, Sterilization Equipment.

• Understanding of skin types (normal, dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature) and conditions, including medical conditions (such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, contact dermatitis, vitiligo, seborrheic dermatitis, melanoma)
• Skin histology and the integumentary system
• Familiarity with facial treatments and applications
• Sales and marketing
• Knowledge of contagious skin conditions like impetigo, ringworm, scabies, molluscum contagiosum, herpes simplex, warts, athlete’s foot, chickenpox, and shingles
• Knowledge of dermatological health and hygiene, as well as sanitation and infection control

1. Tools and equipment include: Autoclaves, UV Sterilizers, Barbicide Jars, Disinfectant Sprays and Wipes, Ultrasonic Cleaners, Hot Towel Cabinets with UV sterilization, Disposable Gloves, Alcohol and Alcohol Dispensers, Sterilization Pouches, Single-use Implements like spatulas and applicators

• Proficiency with scheduling and client management software

• Personal care service providers (spas, salons, wellness centers)
• Dermatology and plastic surgery offices
• Self-employed/freelance workers    

Estheticians are crucial to enhancing and maintaining the appearance and health of their clients’ skin. They’re expected to be knowledgeable, adaptable, and customer service-oriented. Depending on the employer, work schedules may include evenings, weekends, and holidays. In some cases, they may have to deal with demanding or sensitive clients, including those with unique skincare needs or allergies. Practicing good hygiene and sanitation is important to mitigate the spread of germs or contagious skin conditions. 

The skincare business is growing fast, with a projected 9% increase in projected jobs through 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). “The projected increase in employment reflects the demand for services being offered, such as mini-sessions (quick facials at a lower cost) and mobile facials (making house calls) directly from skincare specialists rather than hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists,” BLS writes.

“Employment growth also should result from the desire among many women and a growing number of men who seek out skincare services to reduce the effects of aging, to look good on social media platforms, and to lead a healthier lifestyle through better grooming.”

Most future Estheticians probably enjoyed taking care of their own skin first, keeping it healthy, smooth, and free from blemishes. They may have grown up watching online tutorials or reading glamor magazines and paying attention to the techniques and tools used by their favorite personalities.