Florida is a hot spot for sun-damaged skin and an aging population looking to bring out a youthful glow. As a facial specialist, you will spend your days remedying these common problems. There are so many different techniques you can use to bring out healthy, more youthful-looking skin. But many of those techniques can be done without a facial specialist license.
In Florida, skincare specialists, estheticians, or aestheticians are formally licensed as facial specialists by the board of cosmetology. You may even see a few of them refer to themselves as “full specialists”. A full specialist is a licensed professional with training both as a facial specialist and a nail specialist.
If you are considering a career as a facial specialist, you likely have a few basic questions.
- How long will it take to get a license?
- What does a facial specialist do?
- How much do they make?
- Where in Florida can I go for training?
Let’s answer all of those questions and a few things that you need to know that no one else has told you yet.
What is the Training Requirement?
A facial specialist is required to complete a minimum of 220 hours of training to obtain a license in Florida. This means you can become a facial specialist in just a few months. Before I show you where to find a training program, we need to first talk a little more about all of the services a facial specialist can perform.
What Does a Facial Specialist Do?
Here are eleven services a facial specialist, or full specialist, you may see a facial specialist offer.
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1. Facials
A facial can be simple or it can be complex. A facial is a multistep process that includes cleansing pores with steam, exfoliating to removed dead skin cells, applying custom masks, and a massaging the facial muscles.
2. Skincare Treatments
Skincare treatments are not limited to the face. Body scrubs and masks are popular cleansing and exfoliating spa treatments that can be added to other services.
3. Waxing
Facial specialists learn to effectively remove hair while ensuring maximum comfort for the client. Waxing services include the back, chest, face, leg, underarm, arms, and the bikini region.
4. Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is classified as a non-invasive, which basically means non-surgical, cosmetic technique. It uses tiny exfoliating crystals to polish the skin. It can be used to reduce the appearance of sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, acne scarring, melasma, and other skin conditions.
5. Peels
Peels use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and other peeling agents to make the skin feel smoother, firmer, and appear brighter. You may see them listed on a salon menu as light chemicals, superficial peels, or lunchtime peels.
6. Eyebrow Threading
There are more ways to shape eyebrows than waxings and tweezing. Eyebrow threading uses a twisted thread to remove and shape eyebrows. Yes, all of those people you see in the mall threading eyebrows at a kiosk should have a facial specialist registration.
7. Make-up
Are you interested in applying make-up for bridal parties or learning how to airbrush make-up? A few facial specialists focus on make-up application. A make-up artist, or MUA, is someone who uses cosmetic techniques to enhance a person’s appearance or hide flaws. In the entertainment industry, make-up artists create imaginative characters and special effects for photography, theater, television, or film. Although not all MUAs have facial specialist licenses, many do so that they can offer other skincare services that require a facial specialist registration.
8. Eyebrow Tinting
Eyebrow tints help define translucent brow hairs, and make them more prominent without make-up or permanent techniques.
9. Skincare Product Education
Many spas and salons expect facial specialist employees to sell skincare products to clients. As a professional, you will educate clients about products that can benefit a client in between appointments. Selling these products can also increase your income.
10. Spray Tanning
Since tanning beds have fallen out of favor with most of the public, the demand for spray tanning has grown. Spray tan technicians can give a client the perfect glow they want and flattering contours without the sun damage.
11. Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning is a relatively new and increasingly popular method of exfoliation. It consists of using a scalpel blade to scrape off the top layer of dead skin cells and vellus, or “peach fuzz”, from the face. This removal reveals a smoother, brighter complexion. However, in 2011, Board agreed that this procedure is outside the scope of practice for Board of Cosmetology licensees.
Where Does A Facial Specialist Work?
According to Florida law and rules, facial services must be performed in a licensed salon. However, this does not mean is the only place you will find facial specialists working. Medical offices can also obtain salon licenses. Some facial specialists work in dermatology and plastic surgeon offices under the supervision of a medical professional.
Unlike a few other states, Florida does not have a separate medical esthetician license. If you want t work in a medical environment as a facial specialist, look for programs that focus on teaching students about these specific skincare services. The salary in a healthcare setting averages a little higher than salon salaries.
What is a Facial Specialist Salary?
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the average yearly salary for a facial specialist, or skincare specialist, at just over $30,000. This figure does not include tips or account for the differences in salons and healthcare environments. Also, many facial specialists work part-time or have multiple licenses or registrations in Florida.
Want to be more versatile or combine your education with other programs? Here are a few options.
Other Career Paths and Licenses
Many facial specialists go on to and other programs often within the school where they complete a facial specialist training. Yes, this takes more time, but allows you to be versatile in a salon and healthcare environment. I do not want you to think you must add extra credentials to your resume, but it is just an option to think about.
Here are a few additional programs that are not under the facial specialist scope. They require additional training and licenses in Florida:
Electrologist
Electrologists are professionals that perform permanent hair removal with lasers. This board requires a 320-hour electrolysis training at a Florida approved school and an examination before obtaining a license. Here is more information on electrolysis licensing.
Massage Therapist
A facial specialist can only massage the head, face, scalp, and neck. If you want to do more than that, you will need a massage therapy license. A massage therapy license requires completion of 500 hours of training and passing the MBLEx, the massage therapist licensing exam.
Nail Specialist
A nail specialist requires completion of a 180-hour program. Click here to learn more about that career path. There is not a state examination in Florida for nail specialists or full specialist license. Remember, if you complete the nail and facial specialist requirements (400 hours total), you can apply for a full specialist license in Florida.
Cosmetologist
This license requires the most training (1200 hours), but cosmetologists can perform all hair, nail, and skincare services. They also require passing the state cosmetology exam before obtaining a license.
Tattoo Artist
Yes, this may seem a little crazy, but microblading and permanent make-up are popular right now. Both services fall under the tattooing scope. Getting licensed as a tattoo artist is less work than you might think. A bloodborne pathogens course pertaining to the tattoo industry and application to the Florida Department of Health are the main requirements.
Visit this page for more information on tattoo license requirements.
Where Can I Find a Facial Specialist Program in Florida
I know this is a lot of information. If extracting blackheads, providing bikini waxes, and removing dead skin cells from the face still feel like the right career choice for you, then it is time to start looking for a training program.
Most facial specialist programs are completed at cosmetology schools, or technical colleges. If you need help finding a program, check out our tips for finding a cosmetology school in Florida. Make sure the program covers what you are interested in pursuing.
Being a facial specialist really can be a rewarding career with lots of variety from day-to-day. The best part is that no matter what you do, much of your day is spent helping clients relax and feel better about themselves.
Go make the world a more beautiful place.
I am an esthetician or aesthetician moving to Florida, how do I get a facial specialist license?
If you are an esthetician or nail technician in another state and moving to Florida, here is a board-approved 4-hour HIV/AIDS course you need to obtain your facial, nail, or full specialist license. Not ready for that just yet? Here is more information on transferring your cosmetology board license to Florida.
Need to Renew Your Florida Facial Specialist License?
For 2020, the renewal requirements for those licensed by the cosmetology board were lowered from 16 hours to 10 hours. And there are no renewal fees for 2020! You can find our board approved renewal course for 2020 right here: Florida Facial Specialist Continuing Education (2020).
Can you perform facials and microdermabrasion without a facialist/esthetics license in FL? I’m concerned that a new spa just opened in my gym and they told me they’re keeping their services “low key.” Should I report this?
This list here is a really good guide about services that need a license (see cosmetology) – http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/services-requiring-a-dbpr-license/
All unlicensed activity can be reported to http://www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/unlicensed-activity/
Why would you ?🤔 Just mind your business!
Public health would be a good reason.
Exactly… as someone that paid to train for the job…I learned things I wouldn’t have learned watching a YouTube video for sure…
Hello! can i do eyelash extensions with Facial specialists license?
Here is what the board website says about false eyelashes. I am not sure this is considered the same as extensions. (http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/cosmetology/faqs/#1488479648563-fed13fb7-29eb)
Can you facial specialist have a face-lifting with ultrasound hifu machine
I suggest asking the board for a declaratory statement if you are unsure if something is within your scope of practice.
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/cosmetology/declaratory-statements/
Great info! Thanks. I plan on enrolling in a program later this year.
do you have to be certified to do a basic facial? just cleaning and moisturizing
Here is what the board website says a Facial Specialist is: http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/cosmetology/
Do I need a Facial Specialist license on top of my cosmetology license?
A cosmetologist can perform all hair, nail, and facial services. So another license is not needed.
I’m not a citizenship so how can I apply the license,I have qualifications beauty and spa from Australia also ,itec,cidesco
Please advise
Since you have an international education, you do not qualify for endorsement. I would contact the board of cosmetology and ask them how to proceed. Best wishes!
Is RF microneedling within a licensed esthetician in FLorida
I have a post on that here – https://www.floridacosmetologist.com/microblading/
Can I transfer the international esthetic certificates itec and cidesco to esthetic license Florida?
I know many international transfers that have used ITEC education to get licenses. The problem is that I have seen the number of hours each person with ITEC hours has a fairly broad range, so I cannot say for sure in your situation. You can apply and have your education reviewed by the board.
Where can I find highly recommended products for use on the face? where can i find an approved listing in florida?
The state does not have a list of approved products or devices. Here is as much detail as they have on the board website
A “facial specialist” means a person registered to do facials in the State of Florida. Facial means the massaging or treating of the face or scalp with oils, creams, lotions, or other preparations. These services must be performed in a licensed salon.
Can a Full Specialist do facials in a client’s home or at a hotel? I can not seem to get an answer from either the DBPR or Board of Cosmetology.
There is some information about changes here in the Hot Topics on the DBPR website
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/cosmetology/hot-topics/
Can a facial specialist in Florida perform radio frequency face tightening and also led?
I cannot find info on it anywhere
Not sure. I would contact the board office. You may need to ask the board for a declaratory statement on this device.
Can a facial specialist do lash lifts and tints, as well as brow laminations and tints? Thank you!
Here are some board FAQ answers. Look under “scope of work” tab.
http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/cosmetology/faqs/#1595007276585-9243d62f-dbc9
I’m coming from New York to Florida with my certification of completing the educational hours. Can that be transferred, or?
Hi Lee!
Here is my page about transfers. If your NYS license is active, then you likely can apply by endorsement to Florida.
https://www.floridacosmetologist.com/category/license-transfers/
Can a Facial Specialist perform non-invasive body treatments? I mean beyond face or operate equipments for lymphatic drainage?
Like scrubs or polishes on the body?
As far as lymphatic drainage, I would think that would be under massage therapy. But, that is just my opinion. I would contact the appropriate boards or a lawyer to ask questions about that before practicing.
If i take a online program can i apply for my Florida facial specialist license or does it have to be a Florida school
Hi Gloria!
I do not think the whole program can be done online. I have heard of a few programs doing a hybrid model that is both online and in-person for the other part.
Hi, if I become a facial specialist can I open my own beauty bar salon?
The cosmetology can perform massage on arm and shoulder?
I do not see arm or shoulders addressed here -http://www.myfloridalicense.com/DBPR/cosmetology/faqs/#1595007276585-9243d62f-dbc9
Hi,
Can someone provide resources for online facial specialist schools? I have been searching and can’t seem to find any.
Hi Paola!
I am not aware that Florida currently allows facial specialist training to be completed completely online.
Thank you, this was really informative! I’m wondering what the difference is between an estitician and a facial specialist? I’m hearing there’s no difference but the state requires 260 educational hours for estiticians and 220 for facial specialists.
There really isn’t a difference. Florida does not have an esthetician license – they have a facial specialist license. I believe a facial specialist license is now 220 hours. It was reduced from 260 hours a couple of years ago. That may have caused some confusion over the difference.
Thank you for clearing that up for me, Ivy 😊.
I am about to start school for becoming a facial specialist. I’ve been trying to figure out when or if I am allowed to work “under the supervision of a liscenced facial specialist” while I’m going to school. I currently work at a day spa. Does anyone know the rules on this?
Thanks!!
I am thinking they are talking about the student salon that schools usually have. I am not aware of being able to work under supervision, other than that.
Hey! I recently graduated from a nationally accredited 600hr esthetics program in SC. I recently moved to Florida what would be the best way to get my license? because i saw on here to apply you have to of attended a school in Florida? please help
Hi Alexandra!
Did you get your license in SC. If so, endorsement (the COSMO 4 application for a facial specialist would be the way to go). If not, you may need to get your SC license first in order to apply by endorsement to Florida. That is what I am thinking the board would suggest, but am not sure. You can always call them and double check. If you do have your SC license, send me an email and I can give you the next steps.
Hello, I moved to Florida from Utah and have an active facial specialist certification. In utah I obtained 1200 hours of education and was licensed to do laser as well as facials, waxing, mani/pedis, eyelash extensions, brow tinting and perming, etc. now that I am here in Florida I am unsure of what is under my scope of practice. Can I still perform laser treatments or is that null and void here? I have a hard time believing that I obtained 1200 hrs but I’m now not allowed to provide those services. Any kind of direction or advice would be much appreciated. Thank you so so much!
Excellent question, Kaitlin! I likely need to do an article on this. Laser is under a different department in Florida (health), and not the DBPR. Here is a page to help you – https://www.floridahealth.gov/licensing-and-regulation/electrolysis/laser/index.html
Can I open a Spa Salon with the Facial Specialist License?
Anyone with our without a cosmetology board license can apply for a salon license.
Good Morning! My name is Rose, I’m doing the faciels especialty course at SUNCOAST Techinical College in Sarasota-Fl. I would like to know if I will have to take any tests after the 4 hour course of HIV, and please if I have to take a test to acquire the license how and where should I find this information.
Florida does not have State board for specialist licenses that I am aware of at this time.
Hi! If I studied in CT ( like esthetician) and didn’t get my license because CT doesn’t require State board license for estheticians. I have 600 hours completed. Now we moved in FL and I have go get FL full specialist or facial specialist license. What course do I have to complete, 4 hours HIV/AIDS course or 10 hours renewal course? And what type of application do I have to fill out? Thank you.
I’m a Licensed massage therapist and I want to get a facial specialist. Any school can you recommend? Here I Jacksonville Florida.thank you
I don’t have a specific one. I would visit a few at least to see what their programs look like. There is an Aveda and Paul Mitchell, but also some other smaller schools that may fit your needs better.
Hello I spoke to someone that received their training hours by working hands on at a salon. I can not find any info on how to complete this process or if it is even allowed still. Does anyone have any knowledge about this?
I am not aware of an apprenticeship option for the cosmo board. There is a chance the salon could have been a licensed school also. Sorry I am not of much help here.