Nurse Esthetician Salary in 2025

As the beauty and wellness industry continues to expand, nurse estheticians are finding more opportunities—and competitive pay. In 2025, the salary for a nurse esthetician reflects growing demand, enhanced roles, and the integration of medical expertise in cosmetic procedures. This article explores everything you need to know about nurse esthetician earnings in 2025, including salary by experience, job outlook, benefits, and what influences their take-home pay.

What Is a Nurse Esthetician?

A nurse esthetician is a registered nurse (RN) who is also licensed in esthetics and works in medical spas, dermatology clinics, or plastic surgery centers. They perform cosmetic procedures such as chemical peels, Botox injections, laser treatments, and other skin rejuvenation services under medical supervision.

Average Nurse Esthetician Salary in 2025

As of 2025, the average salary for a nurse esthetician in the United States is approximately $85,000 to $103,000 per year, depending on location, credentials, and experience level.

Salary Ranges:

Entry-level (0–2 years): $65,000 – $75,000/year
Mid-career (3–6 years): $80,000 – $95,000/year
Experienced (7+ years): $100,000 – $120,000/year
Top earners in high-end clinics or urban markets: $130,000+

Key Factors That Influence Salary

Several variables impact how much a nurse esthetician earns:

1. Experience & Specialization

Experienced RNs with certifications in injectables or laser therapies can command higher salaries.
Specialized skills like microneedling, PRP therapy, or CoolSculpting add to salary potential.

2. Location

High-paying states: California, New York, Florida, and Texas.
Urban centers often offer higher wages due to cost of living and demand.

3. Certifications

Holding additional certifications such as:

Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS)
Laser Safety Officer Certification
Botox and filler training

…can significantly improve your market value.

4. Employment Setting

Salaries vary depending on where you work:
- Medical spa: Moderate to high salary with commission potential.
- Plastic surgery office: Higher base salary + tips/bonuses.
- Dermatology clinic: Often includes benefits like healthcare and continuing education support.

5. Commission & Tips

Many nurse estheticians earn bonuses or commissions based on procedures performed or client retention.

Take-Home Pay on a $103K Salary

Assuming a $103,000 annual salary:

Estimated taxes (federal/state/Medicare): ~$22,000–$28,000/year depending on state
Take-home pay: Approximately $75,000–$81,000/year
Monthly take-home: Around $6,200–$6,750/month

Job Outlook for Nurse Estheticians in 2025

The job market for nurse estheticians is projected to grow 10–15% through 2030, much faster than the average for other nursing roles. Key drivers include:

Increased demand for non-invasive cosmetic procedures
Rise in aging populations seeking aesthetic services
More RNs pursuing niche, high-reward roles over traditional bedside nursing

Education & Certification Path

To become a nurse esthetician, you typically need:

Registered Nurse (RN) license
Esthetician license (varies by state)
Advanced training in aesthetic procedures
Optional: CANS certification

Continued education through workshops and training programs increases salary potential and career opportunities.

Benefits of Being a Nurse Esthetician

High earning potential with bonuses and tips
Flexible schedules and less physically demanding than hospital work
Creative & patient-focused environment
Opportunities to run your own business or work freelance
Growing demand in tele-aesthetics and concierge skincare services

Final Thoughts

The nurse esthetician role in 2025 offers a rewarding blend of healthcare and beauty, with strong income potential, job flexibility, and a positive career outlook. As more nurses shift into specialized aesthetics, equipping yourself with the right certifications and experience can lead to a six-figure income and a fulfilling, dynamic career path.