The Truth About Going Solo or Getting Hired as an Esthetician

If you’re freshly licensed (or about to be) and wondering what your first step should be—you’re not alone. The beauty industry can feel like a maze of choices, and one of the biggest ones is this:

Do I go solo and rent a space… or do I try to get hired at a spa or salon?

I recently posted a full YouTube video where I talk honestly about what it’s really like to choose either path. No fluff. No sales pitch. Just the honest truth from someone who’s done both and mentors estheticians regularly.

👉 Watch the full video here:

✨ The Truth About Going Solo

It might look glamorous online—but booth rental or solo suite ownership is a business, not just a vibe. If you go solo, you’re in charge of:

• Rent, utilities, licensing, insurance

• Building a clientele from scratch

• Marketing, bookkeeping, and taxes

• Your time, schedule, and all decisions

And while that freedom is amazing, it’s also a lot if you’re not prepared.

“Going solo too soon without support or education can lead to burnout or financial stress. You don’t have to rush.”

👥 What About Getting Hired?

Getting hired out of school can be challenging—but it's also incredibly valuable. It allows you to:

• Build experience in a real spa setting

• Learn from mentors and more experienced pros

• Build confidence with clients and protocols

• Focus on service, not overhead

That said, not every spa is created equally. Some offer training and support. Others just want a warm body. Knowing what to look for—and how to stand out—makes all the difference.

📚 Why Education Matters Either Way

Whether you go solo or get hired, you need a strong foundation. That’s why I created courses like Beyond the Treatment Room and The Advanced Facialist Course—to fill in the gaps esthetics school often leaves behind.

“Being a great esthetician is about more than doing facials. It’s about professionalism, communication, client retention, and strategy.”

💡 Final Thoughts

There’s no “right” answer. The best path is the one that fits your goals, lifestyle, and experience level. But going into it informed—and with guidance—makes the journey so much smoother.

🔗 Ready to Watch?

🎥 Watch the full video and hear my personal story + advice here:

💻 Want Support Along the Way?

Check out my professional esthetician mentorships and online courses:
🔹 Explore Spa Pro Training
🔹 Join the Esthetician Empowerment Network for FREE