Beauticians: How to Train, Earn and Grow in the Beauty World

Thinking about a job that mixes creativity, people skills and steady pay? That’s what being a beautician is all about. At GoSkill we’ve pulled together the most useful info from our blog to help you decide if this path fits you and, if it does, how to get started fast.

What training do you really need?

Most UK beauticians start with a NVQ or SVQ in beauty therapy. These qualifications give you hands‑on practice in skin care, makeup, nail work and basic hair styling. If you’re not sure which one fits, check out our guide on NVQ vs SVQ – it breaks down the key differences, the industries that prefer each, and how long each takes.

For those who want to specialize, we also have posts on becoming an esthetician and a beauty therapist. The esthetician guide lists the highest‑paying specialties, like medical‑grade facial treatments and laser hair removal, while the beauty therapist article weighs the pros and cons of the career, including typical salaries and work‑life balance.

How much can you earn?

Salary varies a lot, but our research shows that senior estheticians can pull in six‑figure incomes, especially if they work in high‑end salons or open their own studio. The article on Highest Paying Esthetician Careers gives a clear picture of which niches pay the most and what extra certifications boost your rate.

If you’re just starting, expect an entry‑level salary around £15‑£20k. Adding a qualification like a Level 2 NVQ can push that to £22k‑£25k. From there, each extra skill – laser therapy, advanced makeup, or business training – adds roughly £2‑£5k per year.

Got a side hustle in mind? Our post on How to Make Money as a Beginner Carpenter may sound unrelated, but the same principle applies: combine basic skills with a few high‑margin services (think bridal makeup or micro‑blading) and watch your earnings climb.

Finally, remember that location matters. Major cities like London and Manchester offer higher rates but also higher living costs. Our Beauty Industry Jobs That Pay the Most guide lists the top‑paying roles by region so you can match your ambitions with the right market.

Ready to start? Browse our articles, pick a course that matches your interests, and sign up for a GoSkill program that fits your schedule. Whether you study online or on‑site, you’ll get practical, work‑based training that employers love. No fluff, just the skills you need to walk into a salon and start earning.