If you’ve ever wondered how long it takes to become an esthetician, here’s the lowdown: you’re looking at a relatively short process compared to many professions, but there are several key steps. If you’re considering a career in skin care and beauty—maybe through a program like the one at Modern Beauty Education—this guide will walk you through the timeline, what influences it, and what you’ll learn along the way.
What Does “Become an Esthetician” Mean?
In the U.S., an esthetician is someone licensed to work in skin care: facials, waxing, makeup, and sometimes more advanced treatments. They may work in salons, spas, dermatology offices, or even run their own business. To become an esthetician you’ll generally need to:
- Complete a state-approved training program.
- Pass the state licensing exams.
- Obtain your license and begin working.
How long this takes depends on the state you’re in, whether you go full-time or part-time, and what school program you pick.
Typical Timeframes Across States
Program length varies—but here’s a general idea:
- Many states require between 300 and 1,000 hours of training.
- A commonly cited average is around 600 hours, which for a full-time student might be completed in 6 to 9 months.
- If you’re attending part-time (working a job or juggling other responsibilities), it may take 9-12 months or more.
So when one asks, “How long does it take to become an esthetician?” the reasonable answer is about 6 to 12 months, depending on the schedule and program.
What Affects the Timeline?
A few factors will influence exactly how long your journey takes:
- State requirements: Every state sets its own hours and exam requirements. Some states are stricter than others.
- Full-time vs. part-time schedule: If you take day classes full-time, you’ll finish faster; if you go evenings or weekends, it takes longer.
- School program design: Some programs include additional specialties (advanced treatments, business training), which may add time.
- Missed hours: Holidays, vacations, or being behind can stretch your duration.
- Scheduling the exam: Another step adding to the timeline is scheduling and passing the licensing exam after finishing the hours.
What Will You Learn During the Program?
While studying to become a licensed esthetician, you will mainly cover these:
- Skin anatomy and physiology: types of skin and conditions.
- Facials, exfoliation, extractions, and treatments.
- Hair removal (waxing, sometimes threading).
- Makeup, and sometimes brow and lash treatments.
- Sanitation, safety, and professional business practices.
- Client consultation, product knowledge, and sometimes business or marketing basics.
These skills are all part of getting licensed and ready to work.
After the Program: Licensing & First Job
Once your required training hours are complete, you’ll typically need to:
- You gotta apply to your state licensing board.
- You gotta successfully complete the exam, which could be written or practical.
- You gotta set your career track: working in a spa, working in a salon, medical esthetics, or perhaps wandering towards entrepreneurship.
Because the timeline is shorter than many professions, you could be working in less than a year after enrolling—assuming you stay on track.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve decided you want to become an esthetician, know this: you don’t have to wait years. With a full-time program and focused effort, you might be launched in as little as 6 months. If your schedule is heavier or you choose part-time, plan for 9-12 months. Check your state’s specific requirements, pick a strong program (like at Modern Beauty Education), and commit to your training. With good work, you’ll be ready to start your career in skincare and beauty sooner than you might think.