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Academy founder Ruta
Ruta, founder of Beauty Therapy Academy, has 28+ years of skincare expertise, training students in advanced techniques.
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Where do Estheticians work?
It’s a question many aspiring skincare professionals ask when wondering how to become an esthetician, and the answer is more exciting than you might think. The skincare industry is thriving, and licensed estheticians are in higher demand than ever. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for estheticians is expected to grow 9% between 2022 and 2032—much faster than many other careers.
You might think of spas and salons, but that’s just the beginning. From medical clinics to luxury resorts, and even working independently, there’s no shortage of career paths. Let’s take a closer look at the many workplaces available to estheticians and how to find the right fit for you.
1. Spas and Salons: A Classic Starting Point
Most new estheticians start in day spas or high-end salons, offering facials, waxing, body treatments, and more. It’s a great way to gain experience, build a loyal client base, and refine your technique.
Pros:
- Steady flow of clients
- Great for gaining hands-on experience
- Often offers commission-based earnings, meaning more clients = higher income
Cons:
- Competitive market—especially in large cities
- Many spas require selling skincare products (which not everyone enjoys)
- Income can vary depending on the season and clientele
Pro tip: Want to stand out? Get trained in high-demand treatments like hydrodermabrasion, LED therapy, or lymphatic drainage massage—services that bring in repeat customers and higher prices.
2. Medical Esthetics: Where Skincare Meets Science
If you’re fascinated by the science behind skin, medical esthetics could be your calling. Many estheticians work alongside dermatologists and plastic surgeons in medical spas (medspas) or clinical settings, performing chemical peels, laser treatments, microneedling, and post-procedure skincare.
Who hires medical estheticians?
- Dermatology clinics
- Plastic surgery centers
- Medical spas
Why this field is growing:
The global medspa industry was valued at over $14 billion in 2023, with an increasing demand for non-surgical cosmetic treatments. People want results-driven skincare, and trained estheticians play a key role in delivering them.
Did you know? Some states require additional certifications to perform certain medical-grade treatments, so be sure to check your state’s regulations before pursuing this path.
3. Luxury Resorts and Cruise Ships: Skincare Meets Travel
Ever dreamed of traveling the world while working? Many high-end resorts and cruise ships offer spa treatments to their guests, and estheticians are a big part of that experience.
What’s appealing about this path?
- International opportunities—travel while you work
- High-end clientele willing to pay top dollar for premium skincare
- Competitive salaries & tips in luxury settings
Challenges:
- Long hours, often including weekends and evenings
- Time away from home can be tough
Pro tip: Cruise line spas often hire through recruitment agencies like Steiner Leisure. If you’re serious about this path, check their hiring process early!
4. Holistic Wellness Centers: The Natural Approach
If organic, plant-based, or alternative skincare excites you, holistic esthetics might be the right fit. Many estheticians specialize in treatments like gua sha, herbal facials, and aromatherapy massage in wellness-focused environments.
Where holistic estheticians work:
- Wellness centers
- Ayurvedic and naturopathic clinics
- Yoga retreats and holistic spas
Trend alert:
Consumers are increasingly shifting towards clean beauty and non-invasive skin treatments. A 2023 survey found that 35% of spa-goers prefer holistic skincare approaches—a promising trend for estheticians interested in this niche.
5. Skincare Retail & Beauty Consulting
Not all estheticians work hands-on with clients. Many build careers in skincare retail, brand education, and consulting.
Potential roles:
- Beauty advisor in high-end skincare boutiques
- Brand educator for skincare companies
- Social media skincare consultant (yes, it’s a thing—and it pays well!)
If you have a knack for explaining products and love teaching people about skincare, this could be an exciting and lucrative career path.
Pro tip: Learn the art of ingredient analysis—knowing what’s inside a product and how it benefits the skin can make you invaluable in this field.
6. Freelance & Mobile Esthetics: Be Your Own Boss
If you love flexibility and independence, freelance esthetics might be for you. Many estheticians build their own mobile businesses, providing at-home facials, lash extensions, and wedding makeup services.
What’s great about freelancing?
- Set your own schedule
- Choose your clientele
- Unlimited income potential
What’s tough?
- Requires self-marketing & business skills
- You’ll need to invest in equipment
Pro tip: Use an online booking system (like Vagaro or Square Appointments) to make scheduling easy and professional.
7. Teaching the Next Generation of Estheticians
If you have experience in esthetics and love mentoring others, consider becoming an instructor. Many beauty schools hire experienced estheticians to train new students and help them master the craft.
What’s required?
- Some states require instructor certification
- At least a few years of hands-on experience
This is a fantastic career path if you’re looking for stability, leadership opportunities, and a chance to shape the next generation of skincare pros.
Conclusion: Where Will Your Career Take You?
The beauty industry offers endless possibilities for estheticians. Whether you want to work in a medspa, travel the world on a cruise ship, start your own business, or teach the next generation, the right path is out there.
Ready to start your journey?
At Beauty Therapy Academy in Arlington Heights, Illinois, we offer hands-on training in the latest skincare techniques—from advanced facials to chemical peels and high-frequency treatments.
📞 Call us today or visit our website to learn more and enroll!
A rewarding career in skincare starts with the right knowledge. Read our complete guide on how to become an esthetician in 2025 to learn everything you need.
FAQ
How much do estheticians make?
Salaries vary by location and specialty, but the median annual wage for skincare specialists in the U.S. is around $41,000, with top earners making over $70,000 in medical and luxury settings.
What qualifications do you need to become an esthetician?
Most states require completion of an esthetics program and passing a state board exam.
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