For students interested in the beauty and aesthetics industry in Virginia, choosing the right career path can be overwhelming. Many ask: Should I become an esthetician or a permanent makeup artist? Should I pursue a master level? What’s needed to run a full-service medical spa? This blog will break down the differences and help you determine the best path for your goals.
Esthetician vs. Master Esthetician in Virginia
1. Esthetician
An esthetician is a licensed professional trained in skincare treatments such as facials, waxing, and other non-invasive skin therapies. In Virginia, to become a licensed esthetician, you must complete 600 hours of training at an accredited school and pass both written and practical exams.
Scope of Practice:
- Facials and basic skincare treatments
- Waxing and hair removal
- Light exfoliation
- Makeup application (non-permanent)
- Basic product knowledge for skin health
2. Master Esthetician
A master esthetician is an advanced skincare specialist who has undergone additional training to perform medical-grade procedures. To become a master esthetician in Virginia, you must complete an additional 600 hours of advanced training (totaling 1,200 hours) and pass a state board exam.
Scope of Practice:
- Advanced chemical peels and deeper exfoliation
- Laser treatments (hair removal, skin rejuvenation, pigmentation correction)
- Lymphatic drainage and advanced facial massage techniques
- Medical spa procedures such as microneedling and radiofrequency
- Working under the supervision of a medical director in a med spa setting
Career Path Consideration:
If your goal is to work in a medical spa, dermatology office, or plastic surgery center, becoming a Master Esthetician is highly recommended. This license allows you to perform more advanced procedures, making you a valuable asset in the medical aesthetics field.
Permanent Makeup Artist vs. Master Permanent Makeup Artist in Virginia
1. Permanent Makeup Artist (PMU)
A Permanent Makeup Artist (PMU) specializes in cosmetic tattooing procedures such as microblading, ombré brows, eyeliner, and lip blushing. In Virginia, you need a tattooing license from the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) and proper training to practice.
Scope of Practice:
- Microblading and eyebrow shading
- Lip blush tattooing
- Permanent eyeliner
- Scalp micropigmentation (with additional training)
- Basic color theory and pigment selection
2. Master Permanent Makeup Artist
A Master PMU Artist has advanced expertise in permanent makeup and paramedical tattooing. This level requires extensive experience, additional training, and certifications in advanced procedures.
Scope of Practice:
- 3D areola restoration for breast cancer survivors
- Scar camouflage and skin tone correction
- Tattoo removal and lightening
- Scalp micropigmentation at a professional level
- Advanced pigment mixing and corrections
Career Path Consideration:
If you aim to specialize in corrective and medical tattooing (such as scar or areola pigmentation) or to offer high-level permanent makeup procedures, pursuing a Master Permanent Makeup Artist certification is the best route.
What Is Needed to Open a Full-Service Medical Spa in Virginia?
To operate a full-service medical spa in Virginia, you need:
- A Licensed Medical Director – Only a licensed physician (MD, DO) or nurse practitioner (NP) can oversee medical spa services.
- Licensed Master Estheticians – Required for microneedling and advanced peels.
- Licensed Permanent Makeup Artists – If offering cosmetic tattooing services.
- Proper Business Licenses & Insurance – Comply with state and local regulations.
- High-Quality Products & Equipment – Medical-grade skincare, lasers, and PMU devices.
- Marketing & Client Education – A strong online presence and informed consultations to attract clients.
Which Route Should You Take?
If you are passionate about skincare and want to work in a medical spa: • Start as an esthetician, then advance to a master esthetician.
If you are passionate about cosmetic tattooing and corrective procedures:
• Train in permanent makeup, then advance to master PMU for medical tattooing.
If you want to offer both skin and PMU treatments in a full-service med spa:
• Consider pursuing both Master Esthetician and Master PMU certifications.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between esthetics and permanent makeup depends on your passion, career goals, and how specialized you want to be. If you dream of running a medical spa, combining master esthetics and master permanent makeup skills can set you apart in the industry.
Need guidance on which path suits you best? Contact us, and we’ll help you plan your career in the beauty and aesthetics industry!