Aesthetician Training, Careers & Salary Guide – GoSkill

If you love skin care, love helping people feel confident, and want a job that mixes creativity with science, becoming an aesthetician might be your next move. At GoSkill we break down what the role involves, how you can get qualified, and what you can earn once you’re working.

What Does an Aesthetician Do?

An aesthetician (sometimes called an esthetician) provides professional skin‑care treatments. Think facials, micro‑dermabrasion, chemical peels, and advice on at‑home routines. You’ll also sell skin‑care products, keep treatment rooms clean, and stay up‑to‑date with the latest tech like LED therapy or IPL. The job is hands‑on, so good manual dexterity and a friendly bedside manner are a must.

In the UK, many aesthetician jobs sit in salons, day spas, hotels, or even medical clinics. Some specialists work alongside dermatologists for post‑procedure care. The variety means you can pick an environment that matches your vibe – low‑key boutique salons or high‑tech medical aesthetics.

How to Start Your Aesthetician Journey

First, pick a recognised qualification. Our most popular routes are the Level 2/3 Diplomas in Beauty Therapy and the specialised Level 3 Diploma in Aesthetic Treatments. Both are approved by the UK Council for Awards in Care, Education & Training (UKCACE) and give you the practical hours employers look for.

Enroll in a GoSkill course that offers:

• hands‑on labs in a fully equipped treatment room,
• theoretical modules covering skin anatomy, product chemistry, and health & safety,
• exam support and mock client sessions,
• flexible scheduling – weekend or evening classes if you’re working.

Most students finish the Level 2 course in 4‑6 months, while the Level 3 takes an additional 3‑4 months. If you already have a basic beauty therapy background, you can fast‑track straight to the advanced aesthetic modules.

After you graduate, you’ll need to register with a professional body like the British Association of Beauty Therapy (BABT). Registration isn’t mandatory, but it adds credibility and opens doors to higher‑paying positions.

When you start looking for jobs, highlight any client‑facing experience, product knowledge, and the specific treatments you mastered. Employers love a portfolio of before‑and‑after photos – ask your training centre if they can help you build one.

Salary-wise, entry‑level aesthetician roles start around £18,000‑£22,000 per year. With a few years of experience, especially in medical aesthetics, you can push £30,000‑£40,000. Freelance or salon owners often earn more, depending on client base and location.

To keep your earnings climbing, consider adding certifications in laser hair removal, micro‑needling, or advanced chemical peels. Each extra skill widens the services you can offer and justifies higher price points.

Bottom line: the aesthetician path is clear – choose a vetted qualification, get real‑world practice, register with a professional body, and keep adding niche treatments. At GoSkill, we’ve helped hundreds of learners turn a passion for skin into a steady paycheck. Ready to start? Browse our courses, book a free info session, and take the first step toward a glowing career.