Esthetician.
Skincare, facials, makeup and the science of healthy, glowing skin — 600 hours that prepare you for the spa floor and the California state license.
600 Hours
~4 Months
CA State Board
In an age of specialization, the esthetician plays a crucial role.
As a licensed esthetician, your skills as a makeup artist and skincare specialist will serve you well in one of the fastest-growing segments of the beauty industry. ABI helps you apply that knowledge through in-clinic experience while you deepen your understanding in the classroom.
Practical training fine-tunes your accuracy, concentration and speed; classes teach the related sciences — anatomy, histology and state safety requirements. By the end of 600 hours you'll have the competency required for the skill certification exam and the theoretical knowledge to pass the written California State Board examination for licensure.
Six modules.
One licensed esthetician.
Every module pairs technique with the science behind it — so when you walk out, you don't just provide services, you understand the skin.
Facials &
Cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, mask therapy and the full facial routine — from a 30-minute mini to a 90-minute European treatment. The signature of the day spa.
Anatomy &
The science of skin — layers, conditions, contraindications. The understanding that turns a service into responsible, repeatable care.
Chemical peels.
Acne, anti-aging and brightening peels, dermaplaning, microdermabrasion and LED therapy — the advanced services that build a high-margin clientele.
Hair removal.
Soft and hard waxing for every area — brow, lip, body, Brazilian. Precision, hygiene and the consistency clients come back for.
Makeup artistry.
Foundational, special-occasion and editorial makeup, plus lash and brow services. The artistry that turns a chair into a personal-brand business.
The State
Practical and written prep aligned to the California Board of Barbering & Cosmetology exam — plus real-world strategies for resumes, interviewing and getting the job after.
The nuts
and bolts.
600 state hours.
A well-structured 600-hour course aligned to the California Board of Barbering & Cosmetology requirements for esthetician licensure.
~4 months full-time.
A focused full-time schedule completes in roughly four months. Part-time options are available — talk to admissions about a path that fits your life.
In-clinic from day one.
Practical training transitions to a supervised clinic floor where you'll provide real services to a paying clientele — the fastest way to fine-tune accuracy, concentration and speed.
Financial aid available.
ABI participates in federal Title IV financial aid for eligible programs. Admissions will walk you through what's available before you commit.
Career services for life.
Resume help, salon partner introductions and ongoing employment support — long after the cap-and-gown photos are over.
How to start.
Reach out.
Use the form below or call admissions. We'll talk through your goals, schedule, and any aid questions you have.
Tour the campus.
Walk the floor, meet a few instructors, and see the chairs you'll be working at. Tours run weekday afternoons.
Enroll.
Submit your enrollment paperwork and finalize aid. You'll get a start date and a kit list — and that's it, you're in.
Day one.
Show up. Pick up your tools. Start the 600 hours that turn into a career.
Take the
first step.
Ready to begin your esthetician journey? Complete our application and an admissions advisor will reach out within one business day.
Start your application in under 2 minutes.
By applying, you consent to receive admissions information from American Beauty Institute.
Other paths.
Cosmetology
Hair, color, cutting and the business of building a clientele.
Barbering
Men's grooming, fades, beard work and shop business.
Manicuring
Nail care, gel, sculpted enhancement and salon-ready technique.
Massage Therapy
Anatomy, modalities and a steady, mindful touch.