What does an aesthetician do?

Beyond performing treatments, aestheticians play a significant role in helping clients look and feel their best, building the business and fostering client trust. Happy clients are more likely to promote your business to others or to the wider public through positive online reviews. In their typical day-to-day work, aestheticians use their technical expertise to provide tailored skincare treatments and advice that addresses a wide range of concerns, such as managing acne or minimising the appearance of fine lines.

Aesthetician skills and qualifications

Aesthetician jobs do not typically require specific degrees or training and your qualification requirements may vary. It is therefore often more useful to focus on the skills and competencies.

To succeed in this role, candidates possess a blend of technical expertise and interpersonal strengths. Strong aesthetician candidates often demonstrate advanced communication, customer service and attention to detail. A caring manner and a commitment to staying updated on the latest research and skincare advancements are also valuable competencies that can set top candidates apart.

Other skills that may be required for the job include:

• Proficiency in performing a range of facials, peels and exfoliation treatments
• Knowledge of skin anatomy, conditions and contraindications to treatment
• Ability to operate specialist skincare equipment, such as microdermabrasion or laser devices
• Understanding of health, safety and infection-control procedures
• Ability to tailor skincare routines and recommend appropriate products
• Competency in maintaining treatment records and handling client data securely

Aesthetician experience requirements

The level of experience required for an aesthetician depends on factors such as the complexity of treatments offered and the size of the existing team. Employers with larger teams may have a greater scope to provide training for candidates who have little prior experience but show enthusiasm for learning. For entry-level positions, candidates with previous customer service experience can be valuable, as building positive client relations is a key part of the role.

In the UK, aestheticians are not permitted to perform injectable procedures such as Botox or dermal fillers, which must be carried out by qualified medical professionals. Regulations around advanced aesthetic procedures continue to evolve, so employers should remain up to date with the latest requirements.

Aesthetician education and training requirements

There are no formal requirements to become an aesthetician in the UK, but the role requires a high level of technical expertise and knowledge of skin health and safe treatment practices. Employers often look for applicants who have accredited training, such as an NVQ or SVQ Level 2 or 3 in Beauty Therapy or another recognised qualification in Aesthetics. Additional training is often required for advanced treatments, which may include chemical peels, laser therapy or microneedling. Employers should also confirm with their insurance provider whether specific certifications or training are required for staff.

Aesthetician salary expectations

According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for an aesthetician in the UK is £30,788 per year. However, salaries differ depending on variables such as the candidate’s level of experience, whether they hold any advanced certifications and where your business is located.

Job description samples for similar positions

If this job description is not quite what you’re looking for, there are job descriptions for similar positions:

• Beautician
• Beauty therapist
• Dermatologist

Aesthetician job description FAQs

What’s the difference between an aesthetician and a beauty therapist?

While there can be significant overlap between these roles, aestheticians usually focus on treatments for the face, like facials, exfoliations or chemical peels. Beauty therapists may offer these treatments too, but their repertoire often extends to the full body, including practices like manicures or hair removal.

What qualities make a good aesthetician?

Beyond technical proficiency, successful aestheticians excel at building trust. As the work is hands-on, qualities such as a professional yet friendly demeanour are particularly important in this job, along with customer service skills. You may value candidates who have a genuine passion for the field, a commitment to continuous learning and those who take their responsibilities seriously when it comes to client health and safety.

How can employers make an aesthetician job description stand out? 

As an employer, you can make your aesthetician job description stand out by highlighting what makes your salon, spa or clinic unique, to help attract candidates who are a good cultural fit. It’s also worth mentioning any perks, which in the beauty industry might include flexible hours, free or discounted treatments, access to professional products or commission for upselling services and merchandise to clients.