Considering a career in esthetics? Smart choice! According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for the beauty industry is expected to grow by 7% in the coming years, much faster than other fields. But how much can you expect to make as an esthetician? Join us for a guide to average esthetician salaries to determine how much money you could earn in the world of skin care.
How much can you make as an esthetician?
Estheticians (sometimes called aestheticians) perform a wide range of beauty services in many different markets, so there’s naturally a lot of variation in salaries. But we’ve crunched the numbers to help you better understand your earning potential.
What’s the national average salary?
Recent industry surveys show that the typical yearly salary for licensed estheticians in the US is between $55,000 and $58,000. That averages out to roughly $26 to $28 per hour based on full-time employment.
What’s the median range?
When you look at these figures in more granular detail, it’s easier to see the full scope:
- Entry-level estheticians: $30,000 to $40,000 per year
- 25th percentile: Around $46,000 per year
- 50th percentile: Around $55,000 per year
- 75th percentile: Around $64,000 per year
What’s the highest salary you can earn as an esthetician?
In the right market, an experienced solo esthetician with advanced training and a strong clientele can earn $120,000 or more each year. Meanwhile, a successful spa owner may bring home $150,000 or more.
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What factors affect how much you can make as an esthetician?
Your potential income in the beauty industry will depend on several critical factors. Let’s explore these elements and how they may affect your salary as an esthetician.
Location
Estheticians in high-cost-of-living areas, such as metropolitan regions and thriving vacation destinations, are almost always paid more than those in suburban or rural settings. But you’ll also need to consider regional demographics, demand, and other market drivers, as well as local licensing laws, which may interfere with your scope of practice.
Work setting
Base pay, tips, commissions, and growth opportunities are directly linked to your place of work. Here’s an overview of how much you can generally make as an esthetician in various business settings:
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Salon or day spa: Facialists at basic day spas are typically the lowest earners, relying heavily on tips. Jobs in these settings are great for beginners fresh out of cosmetology school.
- Med spa or dermatology office: Paramedical estheticians in a clinical setting tend to earn higher hourly wages or annual salaries, but receive fewer tips.
- Luxury resort or hotel spa: High-end spas catering to tourists often have more expensive service charges as well as a healthy tipping culture. Base pay rates may vary.
- Solo esthetician: Self-employed estheticians have the greatest earning potential. However, they also pay higher overhead costs, such as rent, supplies, taxes, and marketing.
Sales and commissions
Both retail and service commissions are great avenues for additional income. If you don’t feel like much of a salesperson, consider taking an online course in sales and marketing to hone your skills and learn how to make up-sells irresistible.
Experience and specialization
Of course, your level of expertise plays an important role in your prospective earnings. Years of experience and advanced training will pay off as you build your clientele and establish yourself as an expert in skin health.
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What types of estheticians make the most money?
Let’s dig a little deeper into which aesthetic niches tend to earn the highest salaries.
Medical estheticians
Paramedical estheticians are held to a high professional standard and must have a knack for treating clients in a clinical setting. Working directly under a dermatologist can offer access to more advanced and expensive treatments. But this may also require more specialized training and proficiency. According to Salary.com, the top earners in this field make over $72,000 per year.
Laser hair removal specialists
Skilled estheticians experienced in laser hair removal are in higher demand than ever. Data from ZipRecruiter shows that the top earners make around $70,000.
Injection specialists
Cosmetic injection regulations vary by state, but estheticians who are approved to administer Botox and dermal fillers under the supervision of a medical professional could earn $80,000 or more each year.
Microneedling and skincare experts
As with cosmetic injections, microneedling can only be performed by estheticians in certain states. However, those who choose this specialty often enjoy six-figure incomes.
Private practitioners
Solo estheticians generally make more than any other skincare professionals, since they aren’t employees. That being said, higher operating costs and mandatory client-building skills can deter some estheticians.
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