If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your passion for skincare into a career, becoming a licensed esthetician could be your next step. Estheticians—also known as skincare professionals—are in high demand across spas, salons, medspas, and even in dermatology clinics. But how exactly do you become one? What kind of esthetician certification do you need, and how long does it take?
At Tricoci University of Beauty Culture, we’ve helped thousands of students become licensed estheticians across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. This guide breaks down the steps so you know exactly what to expect—and how to prepare for a rewarding career in the beauty industry.
Step 1: Enroll in an Esthetician Program
The first and most important step toward becoming a licensed esthetician is completing a state-approved esthetics program. Tricoci University offers accredited esthetics training designed to give you both the technical skills and business knowledge you need to thrive in today’s beauty industry.
What You’ll Learn
Our course takes 20 weeks to complete as a full time student, or 34 weeks if you are attending as a part-time student. You will learn essential skills across two critical areas of education (theory and practical).
Essential Esthetics Theory & Science
- Personal Development
- Client Care
- Understanding the Client Consultation Card
- Product Knowledge
- Facials
- Skin Care Center Ecology
- Electricity and Electrical Equipment
- Skin Physiology
- Hair Removal
- Makeup
- Advanced Treatments
Essential Practical Esthetics Training
- Massage
- Skin Analysis
- Basic Facial
- Back Treatments
- Advanced (machine) Facials
- 8 in 1 machines
- Eye, Lip, and Décolleté Treatments
- Facial and Body Waxing (Brazilian not included)
- Evening Makeup Applications
- Individual Eyelash Application (not lash extensions)
- Body polish
- Detox wrap
- Chemical exfoliation
Our Advanced Esthetics Course consists of seven individual segments that students learn over the course of three weeks. During the Advanced course, students will learn:
Advanced Esthetics Theory
- Anatomy
- Professional Development
- Resume writing
- Business Basics
- Estheticians in the Medical Field
- Chemistry
- State Board Rules and Regs
Advanced Practical Esthetics
- Epidermabrasion
- Microcurrent (passive exercise of muscles—non-surgical facelift)
- Ultrasound
- Recovery (Acne) Facial
- Eyelash and Eyebrow tinting
- Theatrical and Editorial Makeup
These hands-on courses are taught by experienced instructors in modern classrooms that mirror real salon and spa settings. Whether your passion lies in holistic facials or medical aesthetics, Tricoci University gives you a strong foundation to launch your career with confidence.
Step 2: State Training Hour Requirements for Estheticians
Each state has different hour requirements before you’re eligible to take the esthetician licensing exam. Tricoci University’s program meets or exceeds these thresholds to ensure you’re well prepared.
Why more hours? At Tricoci University, we believe that more in-depth training—especially in advanced techniques—leads to stronger career readiness and more job opportunities. You’ll graduate not just with eligibility for licensure but with skills that set you apart from the average skincare specialist.
Each state’s regulatory board will have an outline of the requirements needed for an esthetics license, and we encourage you to familiarize yourself with the requirements in any state you want to practice in.
Step 3: Take and Pass the Esthetician Licensing Exam
After completing your esthetics training, the next step is passing the state board exam. This test usually includes both a written and a practical component, assessing your understanding of skincare theory and your ability to perform core esthetic procedures.
At Tricoc University, we prepare you for this with in-program mock exams and review sessions. Upon passing the exam, you’ll officially earn your esthetician license—your key to legally working in salons, spas, medical offices, or even starting your own beauty business.
What the Exam Typically Includes
At the end of your essentials program, you will be tested on:
- Facial Waxing
- Body Waxing
- Facial
- Professionalism
At the end of your advanced program, you will be tested on:
- Facial Waxing
- Body Waxing
- Facial
- Express Facial
- Makeup Application
- Advanced Massage
- Professionalism
Once you have passed the written and practical examinations following your advanced course, you’ll receive your certificate!
Step 4: Optional Certifications & Career Specializations
After getting licensed, many estheticians pursue additional certifications to expand their services and stand out in the market.
Popular add-ons include:
- Chemical peels
- Microdermabrasion & microneedling
- Lash lifts & lash extensions
- Advanced makeup artistry
- Medical esthetics training
- LED light therapy or ultrasound skin therapy
Some of these certifications may require supervision by a medical professional, especially in medspa environments. The more certifications you hold, the more versatile and in-demand you’ll be in the workforce.
Step 5: Maintain Your Esthetician License
Becoming a licensed esthetician isn’t the end of the journey—it’s just the beginning. Most states require continuing education (CE) to renew your license. This ensures that estheticians stay current with new techniques, products, and state regulations.
For example:
- Illinois: Requires 10 hours of CE every 2 years
- Indiana: Does not currently require CE, but staying updated is still highly encouraged.
- Wisconsin: 4 CE hours every 2 years
Tricoci University encourages lifelong learning. We frequently host workshops, demos, and advanced training sessions for alumni who want to keep growing in their skincare careers.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Esthetician?
At Tricoci University, you can complete your esthetics training in as little as 6 months full-time or 9–12 months part-time, depending on your location and schedule.
This means you could be on your way to a new career in under a year—much faster than traditional college programs.
Why Choose Tricoci University?
Tricoci University has been a leader in beauty education for over two decades. Our esthetics programs offer:
- Flexible class schedules (day, evening, or part-time)
- Accredited programs eligible for financial aid
- Modern facilities and professional-grade equipment
- Strong graduate network and job placement support
We’re not just here to help you get certified—we’re here to help you succeed.
Find an Esthetics Program Near You
Ready to become an esthetician? Tricoci University has esthetics programs in:
- Illinois: Chicago, Rockford, Elgin, and more
- Indiana: Indianapolis, Lafayette, Highland, Bloomington
- Wisconsin: Janesville
FAQs
What is an esthetician certification?
An esthetician certification shows that you’ve completed a formal program in skincare and are eligible to take the licensing exam.
How long does it take to get licensed?
Most students graduate within 6–12 months, depending on their schedule and state.
Do I need to get licensed in every state I work in?
Yes. If you move to a new state, you’ll likely need to apply for license reciprocity or re-test.
What other certifications can estheticians pursue?
Popular options include lash extensions, advanced facials, LED therapy, and medical aesthetics.
Is financial aid available?
Yes! Tricoci University is accredited and eligible for federal aid, grants, and payment plans.