A career in esthetics offers a pathway into the growing professional skincare industry, focusing on skin health and appearance. This field is regulated by the state to ensure public safety and service quality. Michigan has a clear, multi-step process involving formal education, examination, and state licensing. This guide outlines the steps required to earn your esthetician license and begin practicing in the state.
Defining the Esthetician Role in Michigan
A licensed esthetician in Michigan is authorized to perform skin care services defined by the state’s regulatory framework. The profession is governed by the Michigan Board of Cosmetology, operating under the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). This oversight ensures practitioners meet established standards of competence and sanitation.
The scope of practice centers on beautifying the skin using cosmetic preparations, antiseptics, tonics, lotions, or creams. Services include cleansing and stimulating the skin using hands or non-invasive devices, and applying temporary makeup. The work is specifically limited to the stratum corneum, or the outermost layer of the skin, as outlined in the Michigan Occupational Code, Section 339.1210.
Recent legislative changes have expanded this scope to include advanced services. Licensed estheticians can now perform non-medical grade chemical peels, dermaplaning, and microdermabrasion. They are also authorized to perform noninvasive light therapy, provided the devices are FDA-approved and do not penetrate the living layers of the skin.
Meeting Educational Requirements
The journey to licensure begins with completing a formal training program at a state-approved school. For individuals who began their program on or after July 1, 2024, the mandatory educational requirement is 750 hours of instruction. This training must take place at a licensed school of cosmetology or esthetics, or through a state-sanctioned apprenticeship.
The curriculum provides the theoretical foundation and practical skills needed for safe practice. Core subjects include human anatomy, skin histology, chemistry, and bacteriology, which provides the groundwork for sanitation and infection control. Students also receive hands-on training in client consultation, facial treatments, and temporary hair removal techniques.
Before enrolling, prospective students must confirm the program is licensed by the State of Michigan to ensure their hours are recognized for licensure. Only training completed at a state-approved institution counts toward the required 750 hours. Upon successful completion, the school issues a Certification of Completion, which is required for the licensing examination application.
Navigating the Licensing Examination Process
After completing the required educational hours, candidates must pass a state-mandated written and practical examination to demonstrate competency. Michigan contracts with PSI Services to administer both portions of the esthetician licensing exam. Candidates must first receive an eligibility notice from the Michigan Board of Cosmetology before registering with PSI.
The written examination, or theory test, is a computer-based, multiple-choice assessment covering scientific concepts and regulatory knowledge. It consists of approximately 100 questions, requiring candidates to achieve a score of 70% or higher to pass. Content covers sanitation procedures, client analysis, skin disorders, and state laws.
The practical examination is a hands-on demonstration of proficiency in core esthetic procedures. This portion assesses skills like client preparation, facial massage, cleansing, and waxing, requiring a minimum score of 75% to pass. Candidates must pay the examination fee, approximately $144 for both tests, and successfully pass both parts within one year of each other.
Securing Your Initial Michigan Esthetician License
Passing both the written and practical examinations is the final step before submitting the formal application for licensure. PSI Services automatically reports passing scores directly to the Michigan Board of Cosmetology. Candidates must complete the administrative application process through the state’s online MiPLUS licensing portal.
The application requires uploading the Certification of Completion from the approved esthetics school. Applicants must provide their social security number, answer questions regarding good moral character, and pay the required fee. The initial application and two-year license fee is $63, which must be submitted for the license to be issued.
Once the application is approved and the fee is processed, the state issues the official license. A “pocket license” may be issued immediately online, allowing the esthetician to begin working. The official wall certificate is mailed to the licensee within several business days.
Career Paths and Next Steps
A Michigan esthetician license opens up a variety of professional settings within the appearance enhancement and wellness industries. Licensed professionals often find employment in day spas, resort spas, or dedicated skin care clinics. Opportunities also exist in medical settings, such as working under the supervision of a dermatologist or plastic surgeon in a medical spa environment.
Some estheticians pursue specialization in high-demand areas like advanced anti-aging treatments, laser hair removal, or permanent makeup, often requiring post-graduate training. Others choose self-employment by renting a booth in an existing salon or establishing their own private practice. Obtaining professional liability insurance is a prudent business measure to protect against claims arising from services rendered.
Expanding one’s skill set through continuous learning is common for career advancement, even though the state does not require it. Advanced certifications in areas like micro-needling, when performed within the scope of practice, can lead to increased earning potential and a broader client base. Building a strong professional network and maintaining high standards of client care are important for sustained success.
Maintaining and Renewing Your License
Maintaining an active esthetician license requires compliance with Michigan’s renewal cycle and administrative procedures. Licenses are valid for two years and must be renewed by August 31st of the expiration year. Renewal is completed online through the MiPLUS system, where the licensee confirms they meet all state requirements.
The renewal process involves submitting the application and paying the required $48 renewal fee. Michigan does not currently mandate continuing education hours for esthetician license renewal. Licensees are advised to stay current with industry trends and safety standards through voluntary training.
If a license lapses for less than three years, the esthetician can reinstate it by submitting a relicensure application and paying the fee. If a license has been expired for more than three years, the individual must re-take and pass the state-required theory and practical examinations to demonstrate current competency before a new license is issued.