Cosmetic Aesthetician Salary: Average & Regional Earnings

According to AACS and BLS data, licensed estheticians (skincare specialists) earn a median annual wage of ~$37,300 (2022 BLS), with significant variation by setting and location.

Salary Ranges by Setting (2022 Estimates)

• Medical Spa / Dermatology / Plastic Surgery Office: $45,000–$70,000+ (higher with lasers, injectables assisting, commission)
• Day Spa / Salon: $30,000–$50,000 (base + tips + product commission)
• Self-Employed / Booth Renter: Highly variable; top earners >$100K but bear overhead.
• Resort / Cruise Ship: $35,000–$55,000 + housing/benefits.

Geographic Differences

• Highest-paying metros: San Francisco, NYC, Seattle, LA, Boston ($50K–$75K median).
• Lower-cost areas: $28K–$40K median.

Income Boosters

• Advanced certifications (laser, microblading, chemical peels, dermaplaning)
• Retail sales commission (10–20% of product revenue)
• Building a loyal clientele (rebooking rate >60%)
• Adding body treatments, wellness services

Note: "Cosmetic aesthetician" typically means licensed esthetician; some states use "aesthetician" for medical-esthetic roles requiring additional training.