Clinical/Medical Esthetics

“Aesthetics” is actually a term used to describe a philosophical approach to appreciating things of beauty, reverence and artistry. It’s quite fitting, then, that the practice of skin beautification in the health and wellness industry is also referred to as esthetics- sometimes even going by its original spelling, “aesthetics.”

Estheticians are skincare specialists responsible for performing a variety of facial and body treatments designed to increase, improve, or maintain the health and appearance of the skin.

Estheticians do not diagnose or treat medical conditions or diseases of the skin; instead, their work is focused solely on skincare as it relates to general health and beauty. However, their training allows them to detect skin problems that may require medical attention, so it often falls to them to refer clients to dermatologists and other medical professionals.

Medical Estheticians work in a medical environment under Doctor’s supervision. and focus on numerous advanced skincare treatments, such as Chemical peels, Microdermabrasion, galvanic, ultrasound, and high-frequency procedures, and Laser services. What makes medical esthetics unique is that it is performed on patients in a clinical setting alongside medical professionals who may recommend non-invasive skincare procedures for medical purposes, or for strictly cosmetic reasons.

Whether working to promote healing of affected skin, or just helping a patient enjoy a renewed level of confidence after an appearance-changing injury or procedure, medical estheticians make a positive difference in the lives of the patients they work with.

Estheticians who combine knowledge of their field, with skills, and business acumen, further their careers by taking on management positions and opening their own spas and medispas.

Currently, I do not practice medicine. However, when you have a medical degree and are a Medical Doctor you have recognition of your education, regardless of whether you are a licensed doctor or not. I’m a honorary Member of Chicago Dermatology Society and Dermatology Grand rounds attendee.

Skincare specialists usually work in salons, health and beauty spas, or medical offices. Most work full time. Many work evenings and weekends, especially self-employed workers operating their own salon. According to the US Labor Bureau, “skincare specialists held about 47,600 jobs in 2010, of which 47% worked in the personal care services industry. About 37% were self-employed”.

Possibly because their job involves making others feel and look better, Estheticians report high levels of job satisfaction!

Esthetics teachers teach students the practices of skin care, waxing, tweezing, body treatments and makeup application. Work environment is pleasant and includes private schools, community colleges, continuing education centers, and work with State boards.

The US Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports an average annual salary for estheticians of $43,200 per year. Top skin care professionals easily make 6 figures. 

Of course, these reported earnings do not include the gratuity that estheticians receive from clients after each session. Tips can add an additional 10% – 25% to an esthetician’s take home pay.

Employment of skincare specialists is projected to grow 10 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 12,800 openings for skincare specialists are projected each year.