Facial Treatment Specialist: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Facial Treatment Specialist programs equip students with the expertise to deliver professional skincare services focused on the face, neck, and scalp using advanced cosmetic and chemical techniques. Graduates are prepared to work as licensed professionals in high-end salons, spas, and wellness centers, where they provide personalized treatments grounded in science and aesthetics.
- Facial surface anatomy: Study of the structure and organization of the skin and underlying tissues to ensure precise and effective treatment planning.
- Skin properties and types: In-depth understanding of various skin conditions, sensitivities, and characteristics to tailor treatments for optimal results.
- Skin decontamination and infection control: Training in hygiene protocols, sterilization practices, and safety standards to maintain a clean, regulated environment.
- Facial massage techniques: Mastery of specialized massage methods to improve circulation, reduce tension, and enhance product absorption.
- Facial makeup application: Instruction in enhancing natural beauty with professional makeup, including color theory and skin tone matching.
- Facial wrapping and mask application: Hands-on experience with therapeutic wraps and masks designed to nourish, detoxify, and rejuvenate the skin.
- Product selection and formulation: Knowledge of ingredients, product types, and proper application of creams, lotions, oils, and active chemical agents.
- European and advanced facial techniques: Practice of time-tested and contemporary methods such as deep cleansing, exfoliation, and collagen stimulation.
- Client evaluation and care planning: Development of skills to assess skin health, identify concerns, and create customized treatment regimens.
- Regulatory compliance and legal standards: Familiarity with state licensing laws, health codes, and ethical guidelines governing skincare practice.
- Business and client relations: Training in salon operations, customer service excellence, and professional conduct to support sustainable career growth.
Facial Treatment Specialist Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Facial Treatment Specialist Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Facial Treatment Specialist degrees, including Skincare Specialists. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 70,240 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Skincare Specialists 39-5094 | $41,560 | $27,160 - $77,330 | 70,240 | $19.98 |
Facial Treatment Specialist Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $26,360 in Kentucky to $73,500 in Maine—a 179% difference. The highest-paying states include Maine, Washington, and Vermont. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 70,240 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for Facial Treatment Specialist by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 77 institutions offering Facial Treatment Specialist programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in Facial Treatment Specialist is found at Florida State College (FSCJ), Jacksonville (199 graduates), Sheridan Technical College (STC) (135 graduates), Palm Beach State College (PBSC) (129 graduates), Indian River State College (IRSC) (112 graduates), and Manatee Technical College (MTC) (109 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 2,901 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Facial Treatment Specialist programs
How much can I earn with a Facial Treatment Specialist degree?
Salaries for Facial Treatment Specialist graduates vary by role and location. Skincare Specialists earn a median of $41,560 annually. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in Maine average $73,500 compared to $26,360 in Kentucky. Approximately 70,240 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest Facial Treatment Specialist programs?
Currently 79 accredited institutions offer Facial Treatment Specialist degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Florida State College (FSCJ), Jacksonville (199 graduates), Sheridan Technical College (STC) (135 graduates), and Palm Beach State College (PBSC) (129 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
Is enrollment in Facial Treatment Specialist growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 913 in 2010 to 2,901 in 2023-24. This represents a 218% increase overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with steady interest, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
What career paths are available with a Facial Treatment Specialist degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Skincare Specialists. Related occupations employ approximately 70,240 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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