An aesthetician (yep, sometimes spelled “esthetician”) is a licensed skin pro who works on the surface of your skin to help it look and feel its best. They’re wizards with facials, peels, and product know-how—but they’re not medical doctors, so they don’t diagnose skin diseases or write prescriptions.

Where You’ll Find Them

From day spas in California to med spas in Florida—and plenty of salons, resorts, and dermatology offices in between—estheticians work wherever folks want healthy, glowy skin.

What They Actually Do

Estheticians size up your skin type and concerns, then map out treatments and routines to:

Dial down signs of aging
Boost overall skin health and glow
Tackle dryness, breakouts, and sun damage
Minimize the fallout from UV exposure

Everything they do is noninvasive and focused on the top layers of skin.

Common Services (No Needles, No Drama)

Custom facials: Deep cleanse, steam, exfoliation, masks, massage
Hair removal: Waxing, threading, sugaring for face and body
Chemical peels: From gentle to stronger formulas to smooth texture and brighten tone
Microdermabrasion: Tool-based exfoliation to whisk away dead skin
Makeup services: Event looks and how-to lessons
Lash & brow upgrades: Lifts, tints, shaping, extensions
Body treatments: Scrubs, wraps, and masks for neck-down self-care

Aesthetician vs. Medical Aesthetician

Aesthetician (Esthetician)

Focus: Cosmetic, relaxation, and appearance-boosting treatments
Setting: Spas, salons, resorts, beauty clinics
Depth: Superficial, noninvasive (think facials, waxing, light/medium peels)
Limits: Can’t diagnose medical conditions, prescribe meds, or inject fillers/Botox

Medical Aesthetician

Focus: Advanced, clinic-based skin care (often pre/post-op support)
Setting: Derm offices, plastic surgery clinics, hospitals, medical spas
Depth: Can assist with more advanced procedures (e.g., lasers, deeper peels) under physician supervision
Limits: Still can’t diagnose or prescribe; they support medical treatments rather than replace a doctor

Why People Book an Aesthetician

Acne help without prescriptions
Dryness or sensitivity that needs a gentler routine
Sun spots and dullness from years outdoors
Pre-event glow-ups (weddings, graduations)
Relaxation—because a good facial plus a neck massage is therapy, just saying

What They Don’t Do

Diagnose conditions like rosacea, eczema, or skin cancer
Prescribe antibiotics, steroid creams, or other meds
Perform injections or surgical treatments

How to Become a Licensed Aesthetician

School: Complete a state-approved esthetics or cosmetology program (hours vary by state).
Pass the license exam: Usually a written test plus a hands-on practical.
Keep learning: Many states require continuing education; most estheticians also stack advanced trainings (think chemical peels, devices, oncology-safe skincare).

Who’s a Good Fit to See One

You want a smarter at-home routine (right cleanser, exfoliation schedule, SPF game)
You’re dealing with mild to moderate breakouts, texture issues, or dryness
You’re planning a series of peels or facials to even out tone before a big event
You’re already under a derm’s care and want non-medical upkeep between visits

Quick Heads-Up on Safety

Share allergies, meds (like acne treatments or retinoids), and any recent procedures before your service. If something looks medical—suspicious mole, sudden rash, painful cysts—an ethical aesthetician will refer you to a dermatologist first.

Why People Book an Aesthetician

Got skin goals or just need an hour of peace and quiet? You’re not alone—there are close to 70,000 licensed skincare pros across the U.S., and a lot of folks lean on them for guidance, upkeep, and a little pampering.

For Pure Pampering

Sometimes you just want to zone out. Think scalp massage, aromatherapy, warm towels, and that “I-have-my-life-together” glow on the way out. Regular visits can be a built-in stress reset in your self-care routine.

For Real-Deal Advice

Not sure if you’re oily, dry, combo, or sensitive? An aesthetician can read your skin and help you build a routine that actually makes sense—what to use, what to skip, and how often.

For Specific Skin Concerns

Aestheticians see the everyday stuff and help you manage it with noninvasive care and smarter habits:

Acne and clogged pores
Dry, flaky patches
Fine lines & early wrinkles
Sensitive or easily irritated skin
Sun damage and dullness
Unwanted facial or body hair

What Services Do Aestheticians Offer?

Whether you’re in it for a chill hour or targeted results, here’s what you’ll commonly find on the menu. (Note: device-based treatments like lasers or deeper microneedling are typically done in medical settings under physician oversight.)

Face & Complexion

Facials (customized cleanse/steam/exfoliation/masks/massage)
Acne treatments and pore cleansing
Extractions (blackheads, congestion)
Chemical peels (strength varies by setting)
Microdermabrasion (gentle, tool-based exfoliation)
Light therapy (LED)
Microneedling (deeper treatments usually medical-spa/derm-supervised)
Moisturizing/soothing treatments for dryness or sensitivity

Body Care & Relaxation

Body scrubs (sugar/salt) and other exfoliation
Hydrating masks and full-body wraps
Aromatherapy
Scalp massage

Hair Removal & Grooming

Waxing, threading, sugaring
Chemical hair removal (where appropriate)

Makeup & Education

Makeup application for events
Tutorials so you can recreate the look at home

Advanced/Medical-Aesthetic Services (Typically in Clinical Settings)

Laser resurfacing and laser skin rejuvenation (physician-directed)

А good aesthetician will always stay in their lane—non-medical, superficial treatments—and refer you to a dermatologist if something needs a medical look.

Aesthetician (Esthetician) vs. Medical Aesthetician — U.S. Comparison
Feature	Aesthetician (or Esthetician)	Medical Aesthetician
Primary focus	Cosmetic, non-medical skincare to improve look/feel of skin; relaxation.	Advanced, clinic-adjacent skincare; supports medical goals (pre/post-procedure, problem-focused).
Scope of practice	Superficial, noninvasive treatments on the epidermis.	May perform more advanced procedures and device-assisted services under physician direction and within state rules.
Typical settings	Day spas, salons, resorts, independent studios, non-medical beauty clinics.	Dermatology and plastic surgery offices, medical spas, hospitals/clinics.
Common services	Custom facials, exfoliation, mild–moderate chemical peels (state-dependent), microdermabrasion, extractions, masks, LED, brow/lash services, waxing/threading/sugaring, makeup.	Deeper chemical peels (where legal), advanced device care (e.g., lasers/IPL, RF, some microneedling depths), pre/post-op skin prep, wound-care support protocols—typically with physician oversight.
Invasiveness level	Noninvasive/superficial only.	Ranges from superficial to more intensive non-surgical modalities; no surgery or injectables unless separately licensed (e.g., RN/PA/NP).
Supervision	Works independently within state esthetics license.	Often works directly with/under an MD/DO (dermatologist or plastic surgeon) or medical director.
What they cannot do	Diagnose medical conditions, prescribe meds, perform injections (Botox/fillers), perform surgery.	Same: cannot diagnose or prescribe (unless they also hold a medical license); injectables require appropriate medical licensure.
Client goals	Glow, texture, hydration, basic acne care, relaxation, routine maintenance.	Targeted outcomes (pigment, scars, vascular issues), pre/post-procedure healing, physician-guided plans.
Education & hours	State-approved esthetics program; required hours vary by state (often ~600–1,000+); state board exam.	Same esthetics license plus medical-aesthetics training in a clinical setting; device-specific certifications; clinic protocols.
Regulation	Licensed by state cosmetology/esthetics boards; scope varies by state.	Same esthetics license, plus compliance with medical-board/health-dept rules and physician oversight where required.
Devices/technology	Basic aesthetics devices (microderm, LED, low-risk tools) allowed by state law.	Access to medical-grade devices (lasers, IPL, RF, ablative/non-ablative tech) as permitted under medical supervision and state law.
Chemical peels	Typically superficial to light-medium depth (state-limited); physician-strength peels not permitted.	May perform deeper peels in a medical practice with physician protocols and oversight (state-dependent).
Microneedling	Often limited to cosmetic/superficial depths if permitted; rules vary widely by state.	Deeper/medical microneedling typically performed in medical settings under protocols.
Pricing (general)	Usually lower per session; varies by market, experience, and service.	Typically higher due to medical setting, devices, and oversight.
Insurance	Cosmetic services are usually self-pay; insurance rarely applies.	Still often self-pay; limited insurance involvement when tied to medical necessity/diagnosis in a physician office.
Who it’s best for	Clients wanting routine care, relaxation, and cosmetic improvements without medical intervention.	Clients needing advanced modalities, pre/post-op plans, or physician-guided results.
When they refer to a dermatologist	Suspicious moles, sudden rashes, cystic/nodular acne, infections, non-healing lesions, or anything outside cosmetic scope.	Works alongside dermatology/plastics; escalates concerns requiring medical diagnosis or prescription management.
Infection control	State sanitation/Barbicide standards; single-use disposables where indicated.	Clinic-level protocols; OSHA/BBP training; sterile technique per device/procedure.
Documentation & consent	Intake, contraindication screening, informed consent for cosmetic services.	Medical-grade documentation, informed consent aligned with physician/clinic policies.
Career path	Spa/indie studio, lead aesthetician, educator, brand rep, spa manager/owner.	Medical spa/derm/plastics, device trainer, clinical lead, practice manager; some pursue nursing/PA for injectables.
U.S. note: laws vary by state. Depth of peels, microneedling, laser/IPL usage, and supervision requirements depend on state regulations and clinic policies.

What Is a Licensed Aesthetician?

A licensed aesthetician (also spelled “esthetician”) is a skin-care pro who’s cleared by their state to do cosmetic, non-medical treatments. Licensure matters—it’s your safety net that the person touching your face actually learned the science and the sanitation, not just the spa playlist.

How Do Aestheticians Get Licensed?

School & Hands-On Training

Most start in a state-approved esthetics/cosmetology program—think beauty school or community college. Depending on the state, they’ll finish with a certificate, diploma, or degree, plus supervised practice on real clients so they’re not learning extractions on your big day.

State Boards & Exams

After school, they take a state licensing exam (usually written + practical). The test covers:

Science basics: skin anatomy, microbiology, infection control
Pro skills: skin analysis, exfoliation, peels, extractions, hair removal, safety

Pass the exam, file the paperwork, pay the fee—then they’re officially licensed to practice in that state.

Advanced Licenses in Some States

A few places offer higher-tier licenses (often called master or medical aesthetician). In Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C., pros can qualify for expanded scopes under local rules—things like advanced lymphatic work or assisting with clinical protocols. Even then, they’re still non-medical providers and typically operate under clinic policies when in a medical setting.

What Is a Certified Aesthetician?

“Certified” ≠ “Licensed.”
You’ll see certifications from schools, colleges, or national groups (for example, the NCEA credential). Certification shows extra education—often up to 1200 hours and a qualifying exam—but it doesn’t replace state licensure. In most states, that certificate simply helps prove training hours when applying for a license. To work legally with clients, you still need the state license.

What an Aesthetician Can’t Do

Aestheticians are skin specialists, not medical providers. They cannot:

Give injectables (Botox, fillers)
Diagnose conditions (like psoriasis, skin cancer, rosacea)
Prescribe medications or medical treatments
Treat medical diseases

You might meet an aesthetician in a derm or plastic-surgery office, and you’ll hear terms like “medical aesthetics.” The setting doesn’t change the rules: unless they also hold a medical license (RN/PA/NP/MD), they can’t diagnose or prescribe. What they can do is offer complementary, cosmetic care that plays nicely with your doctor’s treatment plan—think barrier support, gentle exfoliation schedules, post-procedure skincare coaching, and maintenance facials timed around medical treatments.

What to Expect at an Aesthetician Appointment

Show Up Fresh-Faced

For your first visit, book a consultation and roll in without makeup. Bring your skin wish list—breakouts, dryness, dark spots, sensitivity—so your aesthetician knows what you’re trying to fix or finesse.

The Chat: Skin + History + Products

You’ll go over:

Skin story: what bugs you, what’s worked, what backfired
Medical history: meds, allergies, past procedures
Current routine: bring a pic or list of everything you use (yes, even that “clean girl” toner)

They’ll analyze your skin (type, hydration, texture, sensitivity, sun exposure patterns) and check for any red flags that change what they can safely do.

The Game Plan

Expect a custom regimen—cleanser, treatment steps (like exfoliants or serums), moisturizer, SPF 30+—plus how often to use each so you don’t nuke your barrier. They may suggest services like:

Custom facial (deep cleanse, gentle exfoliation, mask)
Extractions if pores are congested
Light/medium peel (state rules decide strength)
Microdermabrasion or LED for texture/tone
Waxing/threading or brow/lash grooming

Pricing, timing, and aftercare get spelled out so you know what’s next.

Follow-Ups (Consistency = Results)

You’ll typically check in every 4–8 weeks for treatments and quick tweaks to your routine. Expect minor adjustments (rotate actives, change peel strength, pause retinoids before a service) based on how your skin behaves.

When They’ll Loop In a Derm

If something looks medical—suspicious mole, cystic acne, sudden rash, non-healing spot—your aesthetician will refer you to a dermatologist. They stay in the cosmetic lane and team up with medical pros when needed.

What to Bring

A product lineup (photo or list)
Medication list (including acne meds, retinoids, isotretinoin history)
Allergy info (latex, fragrance, aspirin/salicylates, etc.)
Your schedule so you can time peels/waxing around events and workouts

Quick Prep Tips

Skip retinoids and strong exfoliants 24–72 hours pre-visit (ask your aesthetician how long).
Avoid heavy sun exposure and self-tanner right before appointments.
If you’re waxing, let hair grow to rice-grain length; skip lotions/oils day-of.
Hydrate and eat a light snack—services feel nicer when you’re not running on fumes.

Aftercare Basics

Follow the post-treatment sheet to the letter.
SPF daily, hats if you’re outdoors, and go easy on saunas/hot yoga right after peels.
Hold off on actives (retinoids, AHAs/BHAs, vitamin C) as advised so you don’t irritate freshly treated skin.

Green Flags in a Good Studio

Licenses displayed, clean tools, fresh linens
Clear intake & consent forms
They ask about meds/allergies and explain what they’re doing
They say no when something isn’t safe for your skin today

Booking Rhythm (Realistic Edition)

Maintenance facials/LED: every 4–6 weeks
Peel series: every 4–8 weeks depending on strength
Brows/waxing: roughly 3–6 weeks, varies by growth and area

What Is an Aesthetician? — U.S. FAQ

So… what exactly is an aesthetician?

An aesthetician (also spelled esthetician) is a licensed skin-care pro who works on the surface of your skin—think facials, exfoliation, peels (state-dependent), hair removal, and product guidance. They’re not medical doctors and don’t diagnose or prescribe.

Is “esthetician” different from “aesthetician,” or is that just spelling?

Same job, different spelling. States use both terms for the same license. What matters is that they’re state-licensed and operating within scope.

What’s the difference between an aesthetician and a dermatologist?

Aestheticians do cosmetic, non-medical skin care. Dermatologists are medical doctors who diagnose and treat skin diseases, prescribe meds, and perform medical/surgical procedures. Many people see both—derm for medical issues, aesthetician for maintenance and glow.

Where do aestheticians work?

Day spas, salons, resorts, indie studios, and medical settings (derm/plastics/med spas). In medical offices they still provide non-medical services unless they hold additional medical credentials.

What services can I book with an aesthetician?

Custom facials, exfoliation, masks, LED
Extractions for congestion/blackheads
Chemical peels (strength allowed varies by state)
Microdermabrasion, dermaplaning (where permitted)
Waxing, threading, sugaring; brow/lash services
Makeup application and lessons

Note: lasers, deep microneedling, and stronger peels are typically medical-setting services with physician oversight, depending on state law.

What can’t an aesthetician do?

Diagnose conditions (skin cancer, infections, etc.)
Prescribe medications
Do injectables (Botox/fillers) or surgery

They’ll refer you to a dermatologist if something looks medical.

How do I know if someone’s legit and licensed in my state?

Look for a state license posted in the studio and matching ID. You can also ask for their license number and verify it on your state board’s public lookup site.

Do men see aestheticians too, or is this just a spa thing?

Absolutely. Beard-area ingrowns, oil control, sun damage, and simple low-maintenance routines are all fair game. Plenty of studios offer men’s facials and brow clean-ups.

How should I prep for a first appointment?

Arrive without makeup
Bring a list/photo of your products and any meds
Pause retinoids/strong acids 24–72 hours beforehand (ask your provider)
Skip heavy sun and self-tanner pre-visit

How often should I go—what’s a normal cadence?

Common rhythm is every 4–6 weeks for maintenance facials or LED. Peels are usually spaced 4–8 weeks depending on strength and skin tolerance. Brows/waxing run roughly 3–6 weeks by growth.

Are teens with acne good candidates for an aesthetician?

Yes—gentle extractions, basic peels (where allowed), and routine coaching can help. For cystic or scarring acne, team up with a dermatologist and use the aesthetician for barrier care and maintenance.

Can I book services if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Plenty of services are pregnancy-friendly (soothing facials, some exfoliation, brow grooming). Always tell your provider; they’ll avoid certain ingredients and positions for comfort and safety.

How much does it cost, and do I tip?

Prices vary by city and service. In non-medical spa settings, many clients tip like salon services. In medical offices, tipping may be declined—check the policy when you book.

Does insurance cover aesthetician services?

Most cosmetic services are self-pay. If you’re in a medical clinic for a physician-directed procedure, ask the office whether any portion is billable—often it’s still out-of-pocket.

Red flags I should watch for?

No visible license or refusal to share license number
Reused disposables or poor sanitation
No intake/consent, no discussion of meds/allergies
Pushy about buying products or unsafe treatment despite your skin history

U.S. note: scopes and device rules vary by state. When in doubt, ask about licensure, experience with your skin concern, and studio sanitation practices.