Change of Pace: Alternative Career Paths for Estheticians

For many skin professionals, the treatment room is the heart of their career. Yet, there comes a time when stepping outside that room becomes appealing, whether for personal growth, a new challenge, or to escape burnout. The career of a skin professional, however, does not have to end just because they decide to step out of the spa. Their expertise in aesthetics and skin care opens the door to an array of fulfilling career opportunities that can match or surpass their income from treatments.

Instructor with esthetics student

BECOME AN EDUCATOR

Whether working at a school or for a brand, if a professional loves teaching, becoming an educator allows them to share their knowledge with the next generation of skin professionals or provide continuing education to seasoned professionals. Beauty schools, workshops, or even online courses are all great options to enter the education realm.

Educators help shape the industry while establishing themselves as an authority, gaining credibility, and helping others grow in their careers.

esthetician working as a business coach

CONSULTANT OR BUSINESS COACH

With industry experience, a professional can help others succeed by becoming a consultant. Whether guiding spas on best practices, helping skin care brands improve

their offerings, or advising new aestheticians on how to build successful businesses, consulting allows them to share their expertise on a broader scale. Business coaching is another fulfilling path for those with entrepreneurial experience. The professional can assist aspiring aestheticians in overcoming common business challenges like client retention, pricing strategies, or effective marketing.

esthetician developed skincare product line

PRODUCT DEVELOPER

For those who have dreamed of creating their own skin care lines, product development might be a lucrative path. Skin professionals understand the needs of the industry,

giving them an edge in formulating products that resonate with real clients. With the right strategy, one's brand could fill a gap in the market or reflect their own personal approach to skin care.

esthetician digital creator

DIGITAL CREATOR

Skin professionals can reach a global audience through content creation. What they do with that content can generate income whether it is through blogging, YouTube videos, Instagram posts, or TikTok tutorials. Followings can be built and content can be monetized through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or brand partnerships.

Becoming a digital creator offers flexibility and creative freedom. It also allows the professional to establish themself as an expert in the industry while building an additional

income stream.

BRAND MANAGER OR AMBASSADOR

A skin professional's skin knowledge positions them perfectly for roles as a brand manager or ambassador. Brand managers help shape a company's marketing strategy, develop product lines, and ensure the brand resonates with its target audience. A brand ambassador represents a skin care brand at events or on social media, engaging with the public and building brand loyalty. Both roles offer opportunities to collaborate while building one's professional reputation.

estheticians as brand ambassadors

SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Many professionals transition into sales for skin care brands, using their product knowledge and client insights to sell products to spas, clinics, or beauty retailers. This role

helps educate clients about products and support businesses in making informed purchasing decisions. Sales roles often offer flexibility and travel opportunities, making them an exciting alternative to treatment room work.

THE TAKEAWAY

Skin professionals' skills are not confined to the treatment room - they can serve as a launchpad for a variety of different career opportunities. Those facing burnout or just inspired to step out of the treatment room should know there is still a place for them within the industry.

by Sarah Kinsler-Holloway, founder of Kin Aesthetics