10 Best Schools for Estheticians in 2026

If you’re interested in skincare and beauty, earning an education at an accredited esthetician school is the key to becoming licensed and career-ready. Esthetics programs cover skin analysis, facials, waxing, makeup application, and advanced treatments to prepare you to meet state requirements. Since licensure is required in nearly every state, choosing the right program ensures you meet training hour standards.

Accredited schools also provide the hands-on training and exam preparation you’ll need to feel confident working with real clients. Below, we’ll explore what estheticians do, how long school takes, and which programs stand out for preparing students for success.

What Does an Esthetician Do?

Estheticians are licensed skincare professionals who provide treatments designed to improve the look and health of clients’ skin. You’ll learn how to perform facials, waxing, makeup application, and advanced therapies such as chemical peels or microdermabrasion.

Beyond treatments, estheticians also analyze skin types, recommend products, and educate clients on proper skincare routines. For many, the career is fulfilling because it includes hands-on practice along with the chance to build lasting relationships with clients.

How Long Does Esthetician School Take?

Completing esthetician school usually takes six months to one year, depending on the program format and your state’s licensing requirements. Some states require around 600 hours of instruction, while others may set the bar at 1,000 hours or more. Programs often include classroom learning along with supervised practice on real clients, ensuring you’re well prepared for both the written and practical licensing exams.

Top Schools for Estheticians

The following 10 schools are recognized for their strong esthetics programs, hands-on training, and preparation for state licensure. Each one offers unique strengths that can help you succeed in a skincare career.

1. Christine Valmy International School

At Christine Valmy International School, you can train with one of the most recognized names in skin care education. The esthetics program combines online theory with hands-on practice in New York City, giving you a balanced learning path that prepares you for state licensure. Coursework covers facials, body treatments, waxing, makeup artistry, and machine-based esthetics, while also grounding you in anatomy, physiology, and skin chemistry.

You’ll complete 600 hours of training across theory, makeup, practical application, and clinic work with real clients. Flexible scheduling options, including full-time, part-time, evening, and weekend, allow you to fit training into your lifestyle. By graduation, you’ll have the technical and professional skills employers often look for in spa and skin care professionals.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,100 for the program
• Accreditation: Licensed by the New York State Education Department

2. Bellus Academy

Bellus Academy offers esthetics training at several California campuses (Chula Vista, El Cajon, Poway) and in Manhattan, KS. The school is renowned for providing technical training and business skills, offering both hands-on practice and a solid foundation in spa operations. The 600-hour foundational program covers facials, waxing, makeup application, client communication, and sanitation, while advanced tracks expand into medical and luxury spa techniques, including LED therapy, lash and brow services, and chemical exfoliation.

In Kansas, the program is 1,000 hours to meet state requirements, while California also offers a 900-hour Esthetics 103 option with more advanced training. You’ll receive an iPad for digital coursework, complete student salon practice, and get support with financial aid and job placement. The curriculum prepares you to sit for state licensure exams while also teaching valuable business and client service skills.

• Estimated tuition cost: $9,596 for the program
• Accreditation: National Accrediting Commission of Career Arts and Sciences (NACCAS)

3. Avenue Five Institute

At Avenue Five Institute in Austin, TX, you can complete a 750-hour esthetics program designed for flexibility. The hybrid format includes 10 hours of weekly online study with hands-on training on campus, making it easier to balance school with work or family responsibilities. The program moves quickly, with some students graduating in as little as seven months if they maintain good attendance.

Your training will cover facials, chemical peels, skin analysis, hair removal methods, and spa operations. You’ll also learn how to market yourself through the school’s “Beauty As A Business” module, which focuses on social media and brand-building. Accredited by NACCAS, the program allows you to apply for federal financial aid, and career services include resume help, interview prep, and connections with local spas and medical esthetics providers.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,012 per year
• Accreditation: NACCAS

4. Evergreen Beauty College

Evergreen Beauty College, with campuses across the Seattle area, offers an esthetics program that combines technical training with practical experience. Students begin with the fundamentals of skin analysis, facials, waxing, lash extensions, and body treatments, while also learning essential topics like sanitation, hygiene, and safe equipment handling. Modern facilities and professional-grade products give you exposure to real industry tools and practices.

As you progress, you’ll move into externships or clinic work to gain real-world experience serving clients. The program also prepares you for success beyond the treatment room by including business skills like portfolio development, resume writing, and interview practice. There are also federal financial aid options available.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,125
• Accreditation: NACCAS

5. Paul Mitchell The School

Paul Mitchell The School offers esthetics training nationwide, with programs designed to take you from foundational knowledge to advanced techniques. The curriculum follows three phases: core (theory and demonstrations), adaptive (hands-on services in a clinical setting), and creative (customizing treatments and exploring new trends). You’ll study facials, waxing, ingredient-based treatments, and client consultations while building a strong foundation in skin anatomy and safety practices.

What sets Paul Mitchell apart is its focus on real client work and business education. You’ll learn how to retail products, manage service customization, and prepare for your state licensing exam. Since offerings can vary by location, you’ll want to check your local campus for details.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,600
• Accreditation: NACCAS

6. The Esthetic Institute

Located in Fairfax County, VA, The Esthetic Institute offers a master esthetician program designed for licensed estheticians or those who have completed a basic esthetics course. The program dives deep into advanced skin anatomy, ingredient chemistry, and infection control while also covering corrective peels, device-assisted facials, lymphatic drainage, and exfoliation techniques.

You’ll benefit from a strong balance of classroom theory and real-world practice, with case studies, mentorship, and supervised client services built into the curriculum. Career preparation is also offered through resume support, portfolio building, and networking opportunities. Graduates are equipped for roles in med spas, clinical settings, or high-end skincare practices.

• Estimated tuition cost: $13,800
• Accreditation: NACCAS

7. Institute of Cosmetology, Esthetics & Massage

Based in Houston, the Institute of Cosmetology, Esthetics & Massage (ICE&M) offers a 750-hour premier esthetics program that teaches foundational skincare with advanced therapies. You’ll start with essentials like facials and skin analysis before progressing to corrective treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and light-based therapies. The program also includes hair removal, lash and brow services, sanitation, and ingredient knowledge.

A unique feature of ICE&M is the opportunity to prepare for the globally recognized CIDESCO certification, which expands your career options internationally. Students can also take advantage of flexible scheduling and partial distance learning for theoretical courses. Graduates leave ready for state licensing exams and advanced esthetics roles.

• Estimated tuition cost: $14,920
• Accreditation: NACCAS; CIDESCO-certified

8. Cinta Aveda Institute

Cinta Aveda Institute, with campuses in San Francisco and San Jose, offers a CIDESCO-level advanced esthetics program recognized worldwide in the spa and skincare industry. The 1,200-hour curriculum covers advanced treatments, such as deep cleansing, corrective facials, chemical and enzyme peels, massage techniques, aromatherapy, and holistic skin health practices.

In addition to skincare, you’ll study nutrition, wellness approaches, and specialized services like brow and lash treatments. The program culminates in the CIDESCO international exam, giving you credentials that open doors globally. Flexible scheduling, financial aid options, and scholarships help make this advanced program more accessible.

• Estimated tuition cost: $16,150
• Accreditation: NACCAS, CIDESCO-certified

9. Aesthetic Science Institute

The Aesthetic Science Institute in New York offers a 1,200-hour advanced esthetics program designed for students aiming to move into spa and medical settings. The curriculum includes advanced facial and body treatments, corrective therapies, chemical peels, LED/light therapy, lymphatic drainage, and cosmetic ingredient analysis.

You’ll also dive into anatomy, physiology, and infection control, ensuring you can perform complex treatments with confidence. Hands-on practice with real clients under instructor supervision prepares you for licensing exams and gives you the professional skills to succeed in medical spas, dermatology practices, or independent esthetics careers.

• Estimated tuition cost: $17,500
• Accreditation: New York State Education Department

10. National Institute of Medical Aesthetics

The National Institute of Medical Aesthetics (NIMA), with campuses in Utah and Nevada, offers a 1,200-hour master aesthetician program that teaches medical aesthetics with advanced spa treatments. The curriculum includes microneedling, dermaplaning, laser and IPL therapies, chemical exfoliation, body contouring, and specialized clinical protocols.

Students also gain experience in skin analysis, traditional facial treatments, and spa business essentials. With hybrid learning options and extensive practice in NIMA’s on-campus Med Spa, you’ll graduate ready for roles in dermatology offices, plastic surgery clinics, or high-end spas. The program focuses on licensure readiness and advanced credentials to boost career opportunities.

• Estimated tuition cost: $19,000
• Accreditation: NACCAS 

How We Rank Schools

Choosing the right esthetics program can feel overwhelming, so we focus on the qualities that matter most to students. When comparing esthetics programs, we look at three important factors:

• Accreditation: Schools must be accredited by a recognized body such as NACCAS or a state board of cosmetology.
• Licensure preparation: Programs should meet state requirements for hours and include strong exam prep.
• Affordability: We consider tuition costs and whether schools offer financial aid or payment plans.

What Are the Requirements To Become a Licensed Esthetician?

To become a licensed esthetician, most states require you to hold a high school diploma or GED and complete a state-approved esthetics program. Training hours can range widely, with some states setting a 600-hour minimum while others require 1,000 hours or more. These programs include classroom instruction, along with supervised client practice, giving you the skills needed to succeed.

Licensing also requires passing both a written theory exam and a hands-on practical test. The written exam measures your knowledge of topics like skin analysis, infection control, and product chemistry, while the practical exam evaluates your ability to perform treatments safely. Meeting these requirements ensures that you are fully prepared to provide professional skincare services in line with state regulations.

How Much Do Estheticians Make?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that estheticians earn a median annual salary of $41,560. However, actual pay varies depending on factors like location, type of employer, and years of experience. Estheticians working in large metropolitan areas or medical settings often earn higher wages due to greater demand and advanced treatments.

Specialized certifications, such as training in laser treatments or medical esthetics, can also boost your income. Some estheticians increase their earnings by offering retail products or moving into spa management. With dedication and additional skills, it’s possible to build a career that goes beyond the national average salary.

Career Outlook for Estheticians

The career outlook for estheticians is strong, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting much faster-than-average job growth in the coming years. This trend reflects the growing demand for skincare services, wellness treatments, and anti-aging solutions among consumers. Spas, salons, and wellness centers continue to expand their offerings, creating new opportunities for estheticians nationwide.

Healthcare-related settings, such as dermatology clinics and medical spas, are also increasingly hiring licensed estheticians. These positions often provide access to advanced treatments and higher salaries. Overall, the growth of the skincare industry ensures that trained estheticians will continue to have rewarding career paths.

Specializations in Esthetics

Many estheticians pursue specializations that allow them to tailor their careers to specific interests and increase their earning potential. Advanced courses and certifications make it possible to focus on areas like medical esthetics or advanced skincare treatments. Specializing not only expands your skills but can also help you stand out in competitive job markets.

Common specializations include:

• medical esthetics
• makeup artistry
• advanced skincare treatments (e.,g chemical peels and microdermabrasion)
• spa or salon management

Each path requires additional training but can lead to exciting career opportunities in both traditional and medical settings.

FAQs About Esthetician Training

If you’re considering this career, you probably have questions about the requirements and options available. These answers cover some of the most common concerns.

What Is the Average Cost of Esthetician School?

Most esthetics programs cost between $4,000 and $15,000, depending on the state and school. Tuition is usually higher at private academies, while community colleges may be more affordable. Many accredited schools offer financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans that make training more accessible.

Can You Study Esthetics Online?

Most states require in-person training hours, but some programs use a hybrid model. This means you can complete theory coursework online while practicing hands-on techniques at a campus clinic. Always confirm that your chosen program aligns with state licensing rules before enrolling.

Do Esthetician Programs Require a High School Diploma?

In most cases, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED to enroll in an esthetics program. Some schools admit students without one if state regulations allow. Be sure to review admissions requirements carefully, as they can vary from one program to another.

What Jobs Can I Get as an Esthetician?

Licensed estheticians work in spas, salons, wellness centers, and medical practices such as dermatology or plastic surgery offices. Some choose to specialize in areas like makeup artistry, chemical peels, or lash and brow services. With experience, you might even manage your own spa or launch an independent skincare business.

Start Your Esthetics Career Path

Explore accredited esthetician programs on Learn.org to compare costs, training hours, and licensing requirements. Taking the first step now can prepare you for a rewarding career in skincare.