
A Career In Aesthetics
What is an Aesthetician?
An aesthetician is a licensed skincare professional who specializes in improving and maintaining the health and appearance of the skin. Aestheticians perform a wide range of treatments—from facials and peels to advanced modalities like LED light therapy and microdermabrasion—that promote skin health, reduce signs of aging, and boost client confidence.
Aestheticians work in diverse environments including med spas, dermatology clinics, luxury resorts, wellness centers, and salons. Many also open their own skincare studios or offer mobile services, giving them flexibility and independence in their careers.
Since skincare is part of personal wellness and cosmetic care, aestheticians are licensed and regulated at the state level. Licensing requirements and permitted services vary by state, but professional recognition and demand for skilled aestheticians are growing across the country.
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What Does an Aesthetician Do?
Aestheticians spend most of their day working directly with clients to evaluate skin concerns, create customized skincare treatments, and offer expert product recommendations. Each client session begins with an in-depth consultation to assess skin type, concerns (such as acne, hyperpigmentation, or aging), and goals.
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As an aesthetician, your daily work could involve:
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Performing facials, extractions, chemical peels, and mask treatments
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Providing hair removal services like waxing or sugaring
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Educating clients on home skincare routines
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Utilizing advanced equipment like ultrasonic exfoliation, microcurrent, or LED light therapy (especially in advanced aesthetics roles)
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If you run your own practice, you’ll also handle scheduling, client relations, marketing, and retail sales—allowing you full creative and professional control.
In contrast, aestheticians working in a med spa, clinic, or resort setting may follow a pre-set client schedule handled by front desk or spa coordinators, freeing you to focus solely on treatments and client care.
Advanced aestheticians who work alongside dermatologists or in medical aesthetics often assist with pre- and post-treatment care for more intensive procedures like microneedling, injectables, and laser treatments (depending on state law and certification).
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Aesthetician Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for skincare specialists was $46,240 in May 2023. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $27,000, while the highest 10 percent—often those with advanced skills, private practices, or high-end clientele—earned over $82,000 annually.
In the Tucson metropolitan area, licensed aestheticians can expect a competitive income, particularly when combining hands-on services with product sales and tips. Advanced aestheticians in clinical settings or medical spas often earn significantly more due to their specialized training and certifications.

Aesthetician Job Outlook
Employment of skincare specialists is projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics—much faster than the average for all occupations.
This growth is driven by increased demand for anti-aging treatments, non-invasive cosmetic services, and holistic wellness practices. On average, 11,200 job openings for skincare specialists are expected each year over the next decade as the industry expands and current professionals retire or transition careers.
Whether you're starting fresh or seeking a meaningful career change, aesthetics offers a future filled with opportunity, flexibility, and creativity.
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How to Become an Aesthetician?
It’s simple—and rewarding!
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Step 1: Enroll in our Aesthetics or Advanced Aesthetics Program at Pure Aesthetics Natural Skincare School. You’ll gain hands-on training in both foundational techniques and advanced modalities in a supportive, holistic learning environment.
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Step 2: Complete your training, graduate, and take the state-required licensure exams through the Arizona State Board of Cosmetology.
From there, you’ll be ready to launch your career, whether you choose to work in a spa, a clinical environment, or build your own thriving skincare business.