New Year, New Career: How to Become an Advanced Esthetician in 2026

The start of a new year is more than a reset — it’s an opportunity to upgrade your career, income, and professional confidence. In 2026, the esthetics industry continues to evolve rapidly, and licensed professionals who invest in advanced esthetics training are positioned to earn more, work smarter, and access opportunities far beyond the treatment room.

If you’re an esthetician in Colorado (or planning to become one), now is the time to ask an important question:

Is your current skill set aligned with where the industry is going — or where it used to be?

At Elite Aesthetics Academy, we specialize in helping estheticians move from basic services into advanced, high-demand treatments like laser, body contouring, permanent makeup, and medical aesthetics.

This guide breaks down exactly how to become an advanced esthetician in 2026, what certifications matter most, and how the right training can transform your career.

What Is an Advanced Esthetician?

An advanced esthetician is a licensed professional who has gone beyond foundational skincare education to master technology-driven, results-based treatments commonly offered in medical spas and cosmetic clinics.

Advanced esthetics typically includes training in:

  • Cosmetic laser treatments

  • Laser hair removal

  • Skin resurfacing & rejuvenation

  • Body contouring technologies

  • Advanced facials and devices

  • Permanent makeup (PMU)

  • Medical-grade skincare protocols

Unlike traditional spa esthetics, advanced estheticians are trained to work with devices, modalities, and clinical protocols that deliver measurable results — and higher compensation.

👉 Learn more about advanced training options at
https://www.coloradoaestheticsacademy.com/advanced-esthetics

Why Advanced Esthetics Is the Future of the Industry

In 2026, clients are more educated, results-focused, and willing to invest in treatments that work. This shift has reshaped the job market for estheticians.

The biggest industry changes:

  • Medical spas are outpacing traditional day spas

  • Laser and device-based treatments dominate menus

  • Clients expect certifications and expertise

  • Employers prefer multi-certified providers

Basic esthetics alone often limits income, schedule flexibility, and career longevity. Advanced training opens doors to higher-paying roles, leadership opportunities, and even business ownership.

How Much Can an Advanced Esthetician Earn?

Income varies by certification, location, and experience, but advanced-trained estheticians consistently earn more than those offering only foundational services.

Average earning potential:

  • Entry-level spa esthetician: lower range, service-based income

  • Laser-certified esthetician: significantly higher hourly + commission

  • PMU artist: high per-service revenue with flexible scheduling

  • Advanced esthetician in a med spa: premium compensation + growth

Many Elite Aesthetics Academy graduates pursue multiple certifications, stacking skills to increase booking demand and income stability.

👉 View enrollment options:
https://www.coloradoaestheticsacademy.com/enroll

Step-by-Step: How to Become an Advanced Esthetician in Colorado

Step 1: Hold or Obtain an Esthetics License

Advanced esthetics training is designed for licensed professionals or those actively working toward licensure.

Step 2: Choose High-Value Certifications

Not all continuing education is equal. Focus on certifications that are:

  • In high client demand

  • Employer-preferred

  • Revenue-generating

Top certifications include:

  • Laser esthetics training

  • Laser hair removal certification

  • Body contouring

  • Permanent makeup

👉 Explore laser training programs:
https://www.coloradoaestheticsacademy.com/laser-training

Step 3: Train at a Specialized Academy

Hands-on education is essential. Elite Aesthetics Academy offers:

  • Small class sizes

  • Real client experience

  • Industry-standard devices

  • Career-focused instruction

Our programs are designed to prepare you for real-world employment, not just certificates.

Step 4: Build a Multi-Certification Skill Set

Advanced estheticians who cross-train in laser, PMU, and advanced facials are the most marketable in 2026.

👉 Explore permanent makeup training:
https://www.coloradoaestheticsacademy.com/permanent-makeup

Why January Is the Best Time to Enroll

January is one of the strongest enrollment months for esthetics education — and for good reason.

Benefits of starting in January:

  • New-year motivation

  • Clear career goals

  • Ideal timing for spring & summer hiring

  • Faster return on education investment

By starting now, students are often certified and employable during peak aesthetic treatment seasons.

Career Paths After Advanced Training

Graduates of Elite Aesthetics Academy work in:

  • Medical spas

  • Dermatology offices

  • Plastic surgery clinics

  • PMU studios

  • Independent practices

  • Education & training roles

Advanced esthetics isn’t just a job — it’s a career expansion strategy.

Set Your 2026 Career Goals Now

If your goal is to:

  • Earn more

  • Offer in-demand services

  • Feel confident with advanced devices

  • Work in a medical or high-end aesthetic setting

Then 2026 is the year to invest in advanced esthetics training.

👉 Start your enrollment journey here:
https://www.coloradoaestheticsacademy.com/programs

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