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What does a Skin Care Specialist do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A skin care specialist is a professional who provides facial and body treatments to improve the appearance of their client's skin. They are also responsible for educating their clients on how to properly care for their skin.

Skin Care Specialist job duties include:

  • Cleanse and exfoliate clients’ skin
  • Analyze clients’ skin type and condition
  • Develop appropriate skin care treatments
  • Perform facials, body treatments, and massages
  • Apply creams, lotions, and other products to clients’ skin
  • Recommend home care products for clients to use
  • Keep records of client treatments and progress
  • Maintain cleanliness in the treatment area
  • Stock supplies and equipment

Skin Care Specialist Job Requirements

A skin care specialist is a professional who provides facial and body treatments to improve a person's skin. They must have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some programs may require postsecondary education, such as completing an accredited cosmetology program. Many states require skin care specialists to be licensed, which typically involves passing an exam. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a formal apprenticeship or have prior experience working in a salon or spa.

Skin Care Specialist Skills

  • Skin care
  • Beauty
  • Makeup
  • Cosmetics
  • Skincare products
  • Facial treatments
  • Skin analysis
  • Exfoliation
  • Microdermabrasion
  • Chemical peels
  • LED light therapy

Related: Top Skin Care Specialist Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Skin Care Specialist

As our faces age, we begin to see the effects of sun damage, pollution, and the natural aging process. The skin care industry is expected to grow in the next decade, making it a great time to become a skin care specialist. Here’s how you can become one.

Step 1: Get a degree in cosmetology or esthetics.

Most skin care specialists have at least a cosmetology or esthetics degree. This will give you the basic knowledge and skills you need to work with clients’ skin.

Step 2: Consider specialized training.

While not required, many skin care specialists choose to get additional training in specific areas, such as medical esthetics or laser treatments. This can make you more marketable to potential employers and help you better serve your clients.

Step 3: Get licensed and insured.

In most states, you’ll need to be licensed as a cosmetologist or esthetician before you can start working as a skin care specialist. Check with your state’s licensing board to find out what requirements you need to meet. You should also consider getting liability insurance to protect yourself and your business from potential lawsuits.

Step 4: Build your clientele.

One of the most important things you can do as a skin care specialist is build up a strong clientele. Network with other professionals in the industry, such as makeup artists and hair stylists, to get referrals. You can also offer discounts or promotions to attract new clients.

Related: Skin Care Specialist Resume Example

Related: Skin Care Specialist Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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