Esthetician Interview Questions

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Whether you are preparing to interview a candidate or applying for a job, review our list of top Esthetician interview questions and answers.

Clients rely on estheticians for skincare advice. What factors do you consider when selecting skincare products for clients? See answer
What is your level of experience with salon management software? See answer
Can you tell me about a time in which you identified a severe skin problem? How did you make your diagnosis and inform the client?
Do you have any experience with hair removal processes, such as waxing, threading or electrolysis?
Are you skilled in giving manicures or pedicures and applying artificial nails? What examples can you provide?
As an esthetician at our location, we help schedule your starting clients, but you’re responsible for maintaining your client-base going forward. How do you maintain professional communication with clients to encourage repeat appointments?
Has a client ever been dissatisfied with your services? If so, what was the situation and how did you resolve it?
A client comes to you complaining about their recurring issues with eczema. What types of products or treatments would you recommend?
How would you define the difference between estheticians and dermatologists? What examples can you provide?
What is the highest volume of clients you’ve seen in a day? How do you maintain good time management on busy days?
Some clients enjoy small talk during their appointments while others prefer to read, check their phone or sit in silence. What strategies do you use to gauge your clients’ personalities and their communication needs?
A client wants to know what types of quality skincare brands or items they can purchase within a limited budget. What products do you recommend to them, based on your experience?
What treatments would you use on a client who has excessively oily skin?
What safety procedures do you use when completing chemical hair removal?
How do you maintain up-to-date knowledge on skincare trends and new products within the beauty industry?
What is your process for maintaining accurate inventory records and notify management of your supply needs?

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6 Esthetician Interview Questions and Answers

Q:

Clients rely on estheticians for skincare advice. What factors do you consider when selecting skincare products for clients?

A:

Pay attention to how quickly the candidate responds. The ideal applicant should have a set routine that they follow when selecting cosmetic products for clients. Identify the steps that the esthetician takes before applying products on a customer’s skin. Does the candidate ask if the client has any allergies? Do they check if the customer has oily or dry skin?

What to look for in an answer:

A well-thought-out response
Genuine concern for each client’s skin
Experience with all skin types

Example:

“Before applying any products to my client’s skin, I will read their chart and ask questions regarding their medical history and current skincare regimen. Some treatments react poorly with ingredients in certain lotions or specific medications. As an esthetician, I want to make sure that my client does not pose any risk for having an adverse or an allergic reaction.”

Q:

Tell me about a time in which you identified a severe skin problem.

A:

Many clients reach out to estheticians for help with skin problems they are aware of; however, some people are unaware of what their skin condition is. The ideal applicant will have extensive knowledge of skin problems as well as the ability to treat such issues. Estheticians must approach this type of situation delicately so that the client feels comfortable. Look for an applicant’s experience working alongside dermatologists or with a team of well-trained estheticians.

What to look for in an answer:

Knowledge of skin-related issues
Experience with working alongside dermatologists
Professionally approaches sensitive skincare situations

Example:

“I noticed my client had red, scaly patches, which are signs of psoriasis. I informed the customer that I cannot make a medical diagnosis; however, it appears that she may have psoriasis. I brought in our on-site dermatologist who diagnosed my client with psoriasis.”

Q:

Do you have any experience with hair removal processes, such as waxing, threading, laser or electrolysis?

A:

Estheticians are trained in temporary and permanent hair removal. They typically receive education in waxing and threading in cosmetology school before going on to receive additional on-site training in permanent hair removal and hair reduction methods, such as electrolysis and laser. Take note of what techniques your applicant prefers. If they have experience with electrolysis, identify if they have used galvanic electrolysis, thermolysis or blend.

What to look for in an answer:

Experience with different methods of hair removal
Knowledge of what procedure is better for each skin type
Willingness to learn new hair removal methods

Example:

“I have three years of experience with temporary hair removal methods and electrolysis. While working at an electrolysis center, I used the blend method because it’s gentle on the skin and highly effective.”

Q:

Tell me about your experience giving manicures and pedicures and applying artificial nails.

A:

The ideal candidate should have some experience giving manicures and pedicures and applying artificial nails. Detailed nail art is a highly sought-after skill, and many clients prefer to return to the same esthetician for their nails every other week. The applicant’s answer should help you determine if their level of expertise is similar to those already working at your spa or salon.

What to look for in an answer:

Awareness of technical nail skills
Ability to perform manicures and pedicures
Experience working with all nail shapes and sizes

Example:

“In my last position, I gained three years of experience working with all shapes and sizes of nails. I even mastered gel manicures and stiletto-shaped acrylic nails.”

Q:

What is your level of experience with salon management software?

A:

Salons and spas use a variety of management systems to keep their clients’ details organized and confidential. It is essential that the applicant understands the importance of confidentially as well as how to navigate these software programs. Clients enjoy smooth check-in and checkout processes, so it is imperative that your esthetician understands how to quickly move through the necessary systems, such as Versum or Booker.

What to look for in an answer:

Ability to adapt to new software and updated programs
Understands the importance of client confidentiality
Experience with utilizing a salon management software program

Example:

“At my previous salon, I used Versum daily to check clients in and out. I also have two years of experience using Booker.”

Q:

As an esthetician at our location, we help schedule your starting clients, but you're responsible for maintaining your client-base going forward. How do you maintain professional communication with clients to encourage repeat appointments?

A:

Estheticians are responsible for making connections with clients and encouraging additional appointments at their employer's facility. This question helps interviewers determine whether a candidate has the interpersonal skills to maintain a loyal client base while also maintaining professional boundaries.

A candidate's answer should emphasize:

Personable nature
Strategies for maintaining client-base
Commitment to professionalism

Here is an example of a quality candidate answer:

Example:

"I make sure to encourage a long-term relationship with clients right after the completion of their first appointment. I do this by helping them schedule additional appointments in the coming weeks or months based on their situation. I also give them my business card and depending on client contact procedures at my facility, I call them or send a little postcard reminding them of upcoming appointments."

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