Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
This program equips students with the foundational knowledge and hands-on skills required to excel as licensed estheticians and skin care specialists. It emphasizes professional standards, client-centered care, and evidence-based practices in skin health and beauty enhancement.
- Skin anatomy and physiology: In-depth study of the structure and function of the skin, including its layers, glands, and response to environmental factors.
- Skin health and wellness: Focus on identifying skin conditions, understanding skin types and concerns, and promoting long-term skin integrity through preventive care.
- Nutrition principles: Exploration of how dietary habits influence skin appearance, health, and regeneration.
- Infection control and decontamination: Training in sterilization techniques, sanitation protocols, and compliance with health regulations to ensure client safety.
- Facial and body massage techniques: Mastery of therapeutic and cosmetic massage methods to improve circulation, reduce tension, and enhance skin appearance.
- Spa and body treatment modalities: Instruction in body wrapping, exfoliation, hydration therapies, and other luxury treatments designed for relaxation and skin renewal.
- Temporary hair removal: Practical training in waxing, tweezing, and other non-permanent hair removal methods with an emphasis on precision and client comfort.
- Color and skin analysis: Development of skills to assess skin tone, undertones, and pigmentation to guide personalized treatment plans.
- Client consultation and care: Learning to conduct thorough assessments, set realistic expectations, and deliver customized skincare regimens.
- Regulatory compliance: Understanding state and federal laws, licensing requirements, and ethical standards governing professional practice.
- Business and professional practices: Preparation in marketing, client retention, appointment scheduling, and operational management for independent or salon-based careers.
- Alternative healing approaches: Exposure to complementary modalities such as aromatherapy, reflexology, or holistic wellness practices, when applicable.
Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Aesthetician and Skin Care 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 |
Salary Comparison
Aesthetician and Skin Care 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 Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 100 institutions offering Aesthetician and Skin Care 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 Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist is found at NUC University (NUC) (1,061 graduates), Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute, Covington (1,037 graduates), Evergreen Beauty and Barber College, Everett (623 graduates), Christine Valmy International School for Esthetics Skin Care & Makeup (546 graduates), and Douglas J Aveda Institute (450 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 19,985 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 Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist programs
How much can I earn with a Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist degree?
Salaries for Aesthetician and Skin Care 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 Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist programs?
Currently 715 accredited institutions offer Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include NUC University (NUC) (1,061 graduates), Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute, Covington (1,037 graduates), and Evergreen Beauty and Barber College, Everett (623 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 Aesthetician and Skin Care Specialist growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have increased over the past decade, rising from 10,943 in 2010 to 42,738 in 2023-24. This represents a 291% 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 Aesthetician and Skin Care 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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