What Does an Advanced Practice Esthetician Do?

The skincare industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, treatments, and techniques creating exciting opportunities for licensed estheticians. While an esthetics license can open the door to a career in skincare, many professionals choose to continue their education through Advanced Practice Esthetics training.

Advanced Practice Estheticians build upon their foundational skincare knowledge by learning more clinical techniques, advanced treatment modalities, and innovative technologies that are commonly found in medical spas and skincare clinics. Whether you’re interested in helping clients address specific skin concerns or expanding your professional skill set, Advanced Practice Esthetics can be a valuable next step in your skincare journey.

If you’ve ever wondered what an Advanced Practice Esthetician does and how advanced training can elevate your career, this guide can help.

What Is an Esthetician?

Estheticians are licensed skincare professionals who specialize in helping clients improve and maintain the health and appearance of their skin. Through education and hands-on training, estheticians learn how to analyze skin conditions, recommend skincare products, and perform a variety of beauty and wellness services.

Many estheticians work in:

• Day spas
• Salons
• Resorts
• Wellness centers
• Beauty clinics
• Independent businesses

Common services performed by estheticians often include:

Facials

Facials are among the most popular skincare services. They can help cleanse, exfoliate, hydrate, and improve the overall appearance of the skin while providing clients with a relaxing experience.

Hair Removal Services

Many estheticians offer waxing and other hair removal services to help clients achieve smooth, polished results.

Lash and Brow Services

Depending on state regulations and training, estheticians may provide:

• Lash lifts
• Lash tinting
• Brow tinting
• Brow lamination
• Eyelash extensions

Makeup Application

Some estheticians also provide makeup services for weddings, special occasions, photoshoots, and everyday beauty needs.

These foundational services help estheticians develop their skincare expertise. However, some professionals discover they want to expand beyond traditional treatments and explore more advanced skincare procedures.

What Is Advanced Practice Esthetics?

Advanced Practice Esthetics is designed for licensed estheticians and cosmetologists who want to build upon their existing skincare education with more clinical techniques and advanced treatment modalities.

Rather than replacing traditional esthetics, Advanced Practice Esthetics serves as a continuation of your skincare education. Students learn specialized procedures and technologies commonly used in medical spa environments while developing a deeper understanding of skin rejuvenation treatments.

At MedSpa Institute of America, students can expect to build on their current foundation of skincare through hands-on training and advanced clinical techniques. Our curriculum focuses on helping students gain experience with innovative treatments and professional-grade equipment that can help prepare them for today’s skincare industry.

Students in our Advanced Practice Esthetics program learn procedures such as:

• Microneedling
• Dermaplaning
• Medical-grade chemical peels with Glytone*
• LED light therapy
• Carboxy therapy*
• Microcurrent treatments
• High-frequency technology application
• Advanced extractions
• BB Glow semi-permanent foundation*
• PRP preparation training through an optional phlebotomy add-on*

*Certain services and training opportunities are offered exclusively through MedSpa Institute of America.

What Does an Advanced Practice Esthetician Do?

Advanced Practice Estheticians provide specialized skincare treatments that go beyond the services typically offered under a basic esthetics license.

Many advanced treatments are designed to address common skincare concerns such as:

• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Acne and acne scarring
• Hyperpigmentation
• Sun damage
• Uneven skin texture
• Enlarged pores
• Dull skin
• Overall skin rejuvenation

These advanced modalities often focus on improving skin health, stimulating collagen production, and helping clients achieve their skincare goals.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the treatments Advanced Practice Estheticians may perform.

Microneedling

Microneedling has become one of the most requested treatments in the skincare industry.

This procedure uses tiny sterile needles to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin. As the skin heals, the body’s natural healing response stimulates collagen and elastin production.

Microneedling may be used to help improve:

• Acne scars
• Fine lines
• Wrinkles
• Stretch marks
• Uneven texture
• Overall skin appearance

As collagen production increases, many clients notice smoother, firmer, and healthier-looking skin.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning is a popular exfoliation treatment that removes dead skin cells and fine facial hair using a specialized sterile blade.

Many clients enjoy dermaplaning because it can leave the skin feeling smoother and looking brighter.

Potential benefits may include:

• Improved product absorption
• Smoother makeup application
• Brighter-looking skin
• Removal of surface debris and dead skin cells

Dermaplaning is often paired with other advanced skincare treatments to enhance overall results.

Medical-Grade Chemical Peels

Chemical peels remain one of the most effective treatments for improving skin texture and tone.

At MedSpa Institute of America, students learn with Glytone chemical peels, one of the most commonly used peel systems in dermatologist offices and skincare clinics.

Chemical peels may be used to address concerns such as:

• Hyperpigmentation
• Acne
• Fine lines
• Sun damage
• Uneven texture
• Dull skin

Learning with professional-grade products can help students gain valuable experience with treatments they may encounter throughout their careers.

LED Light Therapy

LED Light Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses different wavelengths of light to support various skincare goals.

Clients often seek LED treatments for concerns such as:

• Acne
• Redness
• Inflammation
• Skin rejuvenation
• Overall skin wellness

Because there is little to no downtime associated with LED Light Therapy, it is frequently incorporated into advanced treatment plans.

Additional Advanced Modalities

Advanced Practice Estheticians may also learn a variety of specialized treatments and technologies.

At MedSpa Institute of America, students can gain exposure to advanced procedures including:

Carboxy Therapy

Carboxy Therapy is an innovative treatment used to support skin rejuvenation and improve the appearance of the skin.

Microcurrent Treatments

Often referred to as a “non-surgical facelift,” microcurrent technology uses low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial muscles and support a more toned appearance.

High-Frequency Technology

High-frequency treatments are commonly used to support clearer-looking skin and may help address certain skin concerns as part of a comprehensive skincare regimen.

Advanced Extractions

Advanced extraction techniques help remove impurities while supporting healthy skin and proper treatment outcomes.

BB Glow Semi-Permanent Foundation

One of MedSpa Institute of America’s unique offerings, BB Glow is an advanced treatment designed to enhance skin appearance and create a radiant complexion.

Why Advanced Skincare Training Matters

The beauty and wellness industries continue to embrace advanced skincare technologies and treatment options.

Today’s clients are often looking for more targeted skincare solutions than ever before. As a result, employers increasingly value professionals who have experience with advanced treatments and clinical skincare techniques.

At MedSpa Institute of America, students train with professional-grade products and equipment commonly found in medical spa environments. Through exclusive relationships with industry-leading companies, including Glytone and advanced needling device manufacturers, students gain exposure to technologies and products that may not be available at many esthetics schools.

This experience can help students develop confidence as they prepare to pursue opportunities in the skincare industry.

Hands-On Learning in a Small-Class Environment

Advanced skincare techniques are best learned through hands-on experience.

One of the things that sets MedSpa Institute of America apart is our commitment to providing students with practical training opportunities in a supportive learning environment.

Our curriculum emphasizes hands-on education, allowing students to practice advanced procedures while receiving guidance from experienced instructors.

Because class sizes are intentionally kept small, students can benefit from more individualized instruction and personalized feedback throughout their training.

This approach helps students build confidence with advanced equipment, treatment protocols, and client interactions before entering the workforce.

Add Phlebotomy Training to Your Skill Set

Students looking to further expand their education can add phlebotomy training for a small additional cost.

Phlebotomy involves learning how to safely draw blood using proper techniques and safety procedures. This training can complement Advanced Practice Esthetics education and support knowledge of certain advanced aesthetic treatments, including PRP-based procedures where permitted by applicable regulations.

As advanced aesthetic services continue to grow in popularity, adding phlebotomy training can help students develop additional technical skills and stand out in competitive medical spa environments.

Where Can Advanced Practice Estheticians Work?

One of the most exciting aspects of advanced esthetics is the variety of settings where professionals may apply their skills.

Depending on state regulations and employer needs, Advanced Practice Estheticians may pursue opportunities in:

Medical Spas

Medical spas combine traditional spa services with advanced aesthetic treatments and skincare technologies.

Dermatology Offices

Some skincare professionals work alongside dermatology teams to support patient skincare goals.

Plastic Surgery Practices

Advanced skincare treatments are often incorporated into pre- and post-procedure skincare plans.

Wellness Clinics

Many wellness-focused businesses offer skincare services as part of a holistic approach to health and self-care.

Traditional Spas and Salons

Advanced training can also help estheticians expand the services they offer within spa and salon environments.

How Do You Become an Advanced Practice Esthetician?

The first step toward becoming an Advanced Practice Esthetician is earning your esthetics license.

In Minnesota, aspiring estheticians must complete the required education hours and meet state licensing requirements before pursuing advanced training.

Once licensed, estheticians and cosmetologists may enroll in an Advanced Practice Esthetics program to further develop their skills and knowledge.

At MedSpa Institute of America, students receive advanced training designed to help them build upon their skincare foundation through hands-on learning and clinical techniques.

Because licensing requirements may change over time, prospective students should always verify current regulations with the appropriate licensing authority.

Take the Next Step with MedSpa Institute of America

If you’re passionate about skincare and ready to take your education to the next level, Advanced Practice Esthetics may be the perfect next step.

At MedSpa Institute of America, students can expand their skill set through hands-on training, advanced treatment modalities, professional-grade products, and personalized instruction from experienced educators.

Whether you’re interested in microneedling, chemical peels, LED light therapy, dermaplaning, or other advanced skincare procedures, our program is designed to help you build confidence and continue growing as a skincare professional.

Contact MedSpa Institute of America today to learn more about our Advanced Practice Esthetics program, schedule a tour, and discover how you can begin your journey into the world of advanced skincare.