Salary

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2009 the national average salary for estheticians just beginning their careers was $16,310. The median salary was $28,580. The highest paid estheticians earned over $51,000 per year.
  
  

Services

• The type of services offered also affects annual earnings. Some estheticians limit their services to facials, recommending skin care regimens or helping clients select makeup and colors that improve appearance and skin quality, while others offer a wider range of skin care treatments.
  
  

Employment

• Where an esthetician works also affects earnings. High-end salons, resort spas and medical practices may pay more than other establishments.
  
  

Tips

• Gratuities from clients will add to an esthetician's annual earnings. Those who are highly skilled and have a regular clientele or work in high-end salons will most likely earn a substantial amount from tips. Some estheticians also earn commissions on products they sell.
  
  

Career Outlook

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics about 38,800 skin care specialists held jobs in 2008. Employment opportunities for personal appearance workers are expected to grow by 20 percent between 2008 and 2018, with many entry-level positions becoming available.