Esthetician vs. Facial Specialist in Florida — What’s the Difference?

If you’re exploring a career in skincare, beauty, or spa services in Florida, you’ve probably noticed two terms used interchangeably: esthetician and facial specialist. While they sound similar, Florida has its own specific licensing language that can confuse new students.

This guide breaks down the real difference — what each license means, what you’re allowed to do, and how to choose the best path for your career.

 Quick Answer: In Florida, “Facial Specialist” is the State’s Term for an Esthetician

Most states use the word Esthetician for skincare professionals.

Florida, however, legally uses the title Facial Specialist.

So if you want to become an esthetician in Florida, you will enroll in a Facial Specialist program and apply for a Facial Specialist license through the Florida Board of Cosmetology.

But there are some differences in training hours, scope, and terminology depending on the state — so let’s go deeper.

What Is a Facial Specialist in Florida?

A Facial Specialist (FS) is the official term used by the Florida Board of Cosmetology for someone licensed to perform non-medical skincare services.

Florida Facial Specialists are trained to:

• Cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate skin
• Perform facial treatments and basic extractions
• Analyze skin conditions
• Provide facial massage
• Apply masks, peels, and skincare products
• Use certain light therapies and machines approved by the state
• Perform hair removal methods like waxing and tweezing
• Recommend skincare routines and products

Florida Requirements:

• 220 hours of approved training at a licensed school
• Completion of required HIV/AIDS course
• Submission of license application and fee
• No state exam currently required

This makes Florida one of the fastest states to enter the skincare field, which is why the profession is booming here — especially in Orlando.

What Is an Esthetician in Other States?

Outside Florida, most states use the term Esthetician (or Aesthetician).

These programs usually require 600–1,000 training hours, depending on the state.

Estheticians in other states may be trained in:

• Advanced chemical peels
• Microdermabrasion
• Enzyme therapy
• Advanced modalities
• More intensive skin analysis
• Body treatments
• Higher-level machine work

Because Florida’s requirement is only 220 hours, some services considered standard for estheticians in other states require additional certification here.

Can You Call Yourself an Esthetician in Florida?

Yes — socially and professionally, people still use the term esthetician.

It’s widely understood and accepted in spas, med spas, and salons.

But legally, your license will read:

“Facial Specialist”

If you move to another state, you may need to complete additional hours or take a state board exam to meet their esthetician requirements.

Do Facial Specialists in Florida Need Additional Certifications?

To stay competitive in Florida’s growing market, many Facial Specialists pursue extra training in:

• Chemical peels
• Microdermabrasion
• Dermaplaning
• Micro needling
• LED + light therapy
• Acne protocols
• Advanced extractions
• Lash + brow services
• Body treatments
• High-frequency + galvanic

At Inspirit, we offer many of these specialized add-ons — which is a huge advantage.

Which Path Is Right for You?

If you want to begin a career quickly, Florida’s Facial Specialist license is ideal. It allows you to start working in:

• Day spas
• Med spas
• Resorts
• Dermatology offices
• Wellness centers
• Your own studio

If you plan to move out of Florida or want a more medical-focused esthetics career, pursuing additional certifications (or later becoming a full esthetician in another state) may be the right step.

Why Choose Inspirit School of Healing Arts for Your Facial Specialist Training?

At Inspirit, we go far beyond the state’s basic requirements.

Our 260-hour Facial Specialist program includes:

• Holistic skincare education
• Organic product knowledge using Inspirit Botanicals
• Energy awareness + client connection skills
• Proper alignment for posture + longevity as a practitioner
• Business + branding skills for modern estheticians
• Hands-on practical training
• Add-on certifications available to elevate your skillset

Our mission is to help you become a confident, intuitive, and impactful skincare professional — not just someone who performs treatments, but someone who transforms the client experience.

Final Takeaway

In Florida:

Facial Specialist = Esthetician

The difference is mainly in terminology and training hours. Your license will say Facial Specialist, but you can market yourself as an esthetician professionally.

If you’re ready to start your esthetics journey in Orlando, we’d love to guide you every step of the way.