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Thinking about going into aesthetics or starting your own aesthetics business?
One of the first things that you may ask is — how much can I earn as an aesthetic nurse in the United States?
It’s a reasonable question.
After all, before you go through all the training, set-up, and effort, you’ll want to know if this field will be worth your while.
So, let’s take a look at the data.
How much can you make in aesthetics in the U.S.?
Just like with any job, how much you can make in aesthetics varies based on several factors: your qualifications, experience, client base, and how you’ve set up your clinic.
The types of services you offer also play a huge role. If you’re offering high-demand treatments like dermal fillers, Botox, or advanced laser treatments, your earning potential will likely be higher than if you’re focusing on less profitable services.
So, while it’s difficult to pinpoint an exact number, we’ll explore some figures next to give you an idea of what’s typical.
What is the average salary for an aesthetics nurse?
Aesthetics nurses in the U.S. typically earn an average annual salary of around $105,000, though this can vary widely based on factors such as your state, level of experience, and the specific treatments offered.
Nurses just starting in the field may earn closer to $70,000 annually, while more experienced nurses with advanced qualifications can make upwards of $100,000 per year.
Impact of aesthetic nurse certifications
Earning certifications in aesthetics can significantly boost your income.
Certifications not only demonstrate your expertise in advanced treatments and services, but they also build trust with clients who are often willing to pay a premium for skilled professionals.
For example, while obtaining certifications from the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM) like their Level 2 and Level 3 Board Certifications can be costly, they can allow you to offer more advanced and higher-priced treatments.
Or consider becoming a Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS), which can make a substantial salary difference, potentially boosting it by $10,000 to 20,000 per year.
Common career pathways and earnings in aesthetics
The field of aesthetics offers a variety of career pathways that cater to different skill sets and qualifications.
Below, we’ll explore some of the most common roles in the industry and provide insights into their earnings.
Esthetician
Estheticians are licensed professionals specializing in non-surgical cosmetic treatments like facials, waxing, and chemical peels.
To become an esthetician, you must complete a program at a state-licensed cosmetology school and pass a licensing exam. Estheticians primarily work in spas, salons, or skincare clinics.
- Average salary: Estheticians in the U.S. typically earn around $47,920 per year, though earnings can range from $36,155 at entry-level to $78,000 for those with more experience and a higher-end clientele.
Medical Aesthetician
Medical aestheticians have a similar foundation to estheticians but perform more advanced procedures under the supervision of a physician. They also need to have a license to practice, with different requirements varying by state.
These professionals can perform laser treatments, microneedling, and deeper and more invasive chemical peels.
Medical aestheticians often work in medical spas or dermatology clinics, and their additional certifications allow them to earn more than traditional estheticians.
- Average salary: The average base pay for a medical aesthetician is approximately $58,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning up to $108,000 annually
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) / Registered Nurse (RN) in Aesthetics
LPNs and RNs who specialize in aesthetics administer treatments such as Botox, dermal fillers, and other injectable procedures.
These roles require not only a nursing license but also additional certifications in aesthetic procedures. Due to the specialized skills and high demand for these treatments, aesthetic nurses generally earn more than traditional estheticians.
Plastic Surgeon
Plastic surgeons represent the pinnacle of earnings within the aesthetics field due to the extensive training and qualifications required.
After obtaining a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree, plastic surgeons must complete a residency in plastic surgery and achieve board certification. Their expertise allows them to perform surgical procedures ranging from cosmetic enhancements to reconstructive surgeries.
- Average salary: Plastic surgeons have one of the highest salaries in the aesthetics industry, with annual earnings ranging from $350,000 to well over $500,000, depending on experience and the type of procedures performed
Clinic Manager or Director
Clinic managers or directors oversee the operations of aesthetic clinics, handling everything from staff management to business development and client relations.
To reach this level, professionals often have a background in either nursing or business management, coupled with experience in the aesthetics industry.
Depending on their qualifications, clinic managers can and often do perform aesthetic treatments in addition to their other responsibilities.
- Average salary: The average salary of clinic managers or directors will depend on the size of the clinic and its location but is reported to be $83,295 per year on average.
Startup costs for clinic owners
Opening a medspa involves careful financial planning and budgeting. Beyond just the physical space, there are several key areas where you’ll need to invest to ensure your clinic is fully operational and compliant with local regulations.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical startup costs you’ll need to consider:
Of course, there may be other costs specific to your clinic, so it’s essential to plan thoroughly and budget accordingly.
Understanding the revenue streams for clinic owners
There are multiple ways for aesthetic clinics to generate revenue, and understanding these streams is key to building a successful business.
Let’s break down the main ones.
Service offerings
The heart of any aesthetic clinic is its service menu.
Different services come with different price tags and profit margins, so understanding what your clientele desires and how to price your services accordingly is crucial.
To give you a ballpark idea of what to expect, let’s look at the average price ranges for popular aesthetic treatments.
Service | Average Price Range |
Botox treatment | $300 to $600 |
Dermal Fillers | $500 to $1,500 |
Chemical Peels | $150 to $3000 |
Laser Hair Removal | $150 to $700 |
Microneedling | $200 to $700+ |
Laser Resurfacing | $1,000 to $4,000+ |
CoolSculpting | $2,000 to $4,000 |
Keep in mind these are average ranges, and prices can fluctuate depending on factors like your location, expertise, and the specific products used.
The key is to create a menu that caters to your target audience’s desires while remaining profitable.
Retail product sales
Don’t overlook the power of retail. Selling professional skincare products, supplements, and even makeup can be a significant revenue booster.
Clients trust your recommendations, and offering high-quality products they can use at home not only complements their treatments but also creates a valuable ongoing income stream.
Membership and subscription plans
Want a predictable income stream? Consider offering membership or subscription plans.
These memberships might include monthly treatments, discounts, or even exclusive product perks. This model not only creates recurring revenue but also fosters client loyalty, keeping them coming back for more.
Factors that affect aesthetic clinic earnings
While there’s no magic number when it comes to how much you can earn in aesthetics, your income will be influenced by several key factors.
Location and clientele
The demographics of your area and the competition you face will play a huge role. Are you in a bustling city with a large population of high-income individuals who value aesthetic treatments? Or are you in a smaller town where these services might be less in demand?
Understanding your local market is essential for setting the right prices and attracting the right clientele.
Services offered
A broader range of services naturally translates to more revenue options.
If you offer everything from injectables to laser treatments and body sculpting, you’re casting a wider net for potential clients. Diversifying your menu can also help mitigate seasonal fluctuations in demand for certain treatments.
Of course, while diversification is beneficial, there’s also immense value in establishing yourself as a specialist.
Focusing on a specific niche, like facial aesthetics, allows you to cultivate deep expertise and become a go-to authority in that area, setting you apart from competitors.
Ultimately, the ideal approach depends on your individual goals, resources, and target market.
Experience and reputation
As your experience and reputation grow, so does your earning potential. Clients are often willing to pay a premium for practitioners who have a proven track record of delivering excellent results.
In an industry that can sometimes be unregulated, your credentials and experience as a qualified medical professional can serve as a powerful differentiator, fostering trust and justifying premium pricing.
So, invest in your and your team’s skills, continue learning, and build a strong brand to command higher prices and attract loyal clients.
Operational costs
Don’t forget about the expenses that eat into your profits.
You need to factor in various operational costs, such as:
- Staff salaries: If you have employees, their salaries are a major cost consideration.
- Rent and utilities: The location of your clinic will significantly impact your rent and utility bills.
- Equipment and supplies: Investing in high-quality equipment and products is essential, but it can be costly.
Remember, carefully managing your expenses and ensuring a healthy profit margin is just as important as attracting new clients.
Tips to increase your earning potential in aesthetics
Based on the revenue streams and revenue factors in aesthetic clinics, there are some proven practices you can implement to increase your earnings.
Let’s now look at six tips you can consider.
Diversify service offerings
Don’t limit yourself to a few basic treatments.
Offer a wide range of popular and in-demand services to attract a broader clientele. Go beyond the basics – explore advanced procedures, and niche treatments, and try to follow the latest trends.
This not only increases your revenue potential per client but also ensures that you have something for everyone.
Implement loyalty programs and referral incentives
Rewarding your loyal clients with exclusive discounts or perks can encourage repeat business and foster a sense of community.
Implementing a referral program incentivizes your satisfied clients to spread the word, bringing in new customers through their recommendations. This is a cost-effective way to expand your client base and boost your bottom line.
Host special events and promotions
Create a buzz around your aesthetic business by hosting exclusive events and seasonal promotions. These can range from product launches and demonstrations to open houses with discounted treatments.
Such events not only generate immediate revenue but also foster client engagement and build excitement around your brand.
Reduce admin costs with clinic management software
Streamline your operations and save time and effort by investing in practice management software like Pabau.
Automating tasks like appointment scheduling, inventory management, and patient record-keeping frees up your staff’s time, reduces the risk of errors, and ultimately brings you more revenue.
Use our calculator to see how much time and resources you could save with Pabau.
This allows you to focus more on revenue-generating activities like client consultations and treatments.
Package services together and showcase client savings
Bundling multiple services or treatments into attractive packages can entice clients to try new offerings and spend more than they initially planned. By clearly highlighting the savings they’ll enjoy, you can make these packages even more appealing.
Plus, offering upfront payment options for packages ensures a steady cash flow and helps with cash flow forecasting.
Prioritize client retention
Finally, remember that retaining existing clients is often more cost-effective than acquiring new ones.
Implement a client retention strategy that includes personalized follow-ups, automated recall reminders, and special offers for repeat customers.
Building strong relationships with your clients will foster loyalty and encourage them to become brand ambassadors, generating positive word-of-mouth and driving further growth for your clinic.
Lower expenses and boost revenue with clinic management software
As you can see, the earning potential in aesthetics is substantial. But to make the most of it, you need a solid plan and the right tools.
Our all-in-one practice management system, Pabau, can be a game-changer.
It helps optimize your entire operations, leaving you more time to focus on what really matters – building your clientele and growing your business.
Our system offers:
- Deposits and no-show protection to protect your income
- Point of sale & invoice tools
- Pabau Pay for easy, secure payments
- Inventory management
- And so much more…
Ready to see how Pabau can supercharge your aesthetics business? Book a free demo and discover the possibilities.
