Advanced Esthetics Program — Tysons Corner, Virginia
Elevate your esthetics career with 600 hours of advanced skincare training — chemical exfoliation, microdermabrasion, lymphatic drainage, advanced facials, and Virginia Master Esthetician license preparation.
AVI Career Training's Master Esthetics program is a 600 clock-hour advanced certification program designed for licensed estheticians or those completing Basic Esthetics who want to master cutting-edge skincare techniques, deepen their skin science knowledge, and pursue the Virginia Master Esthetician license through DPOR.
Where Basic Esthetics gives you the foundation, Master Esthetics gives you the depth. You will graduate with advanced expertise in chemical exfoliation chemistry (AHAs, BHAs, and enzyme treatments), professional microdermabrasion protocols, lymphatic drainage massage techniques, Fitzpatrick phototyping, advanced treatment planning, and the science behind aging skin, the skin barrier, and pigmentation disorders. AVI's program is structured to prepare you for the Virginia Master Esthetician license examination administered by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).
AVI has been preparing skincare professionals for advanced careers in Virginia and beyond. Our Master Esthetics program combines rigorous science education with real-world hands-on training.
AVI is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education, ensuring your education meets recognized quality standards that employers and licensing boards respect.
Every module in our curriculum is aligned with DPOR requirements for the Virginia Master Esthetician license. We prepare you for both the written and practical examinations.
Train on professional-grade skincare equipment used in top spas and clinics. Hands-on practice with the tools you will use in your advanced career.
Learn from licensed Master Estheticians and skincare educators with real industry experience. Our instructors bring clinical knowledge and practical career insights to every class.
Day and evening schedule options accommodate working professionals and those completing Basic Esthetics. Multiple start dates throughout the year.
Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Our financial aid team will guide you through federal aid options and payment plans to make advanced training accessible.
Our curriculum builds systematically from advanced skin science through clinical technique application, preparing you for both the licensing exam and real-world advanced practice.
Beyond the basics, Master Esthetics training at AVI covers a comprehensive range of advanced modalities that define the modern high-end skincare practice.
Master the chemistry, application protocols, and safety procedures for AHA, BHA, and enzyme exfoliation treatments — the cornerstone of advanced clinical esthetics.
Understand crystal and diamond-tip microdermabrasion technology, patient selection criteria, protocol development, and series-based treatment planning.
Learn manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) concepts applied to facial esthetics — reducing puffiness, stimulating circulation, and enhancing overall treatment outcomes.
Hands-on training with high-frequency, galvanic current, microcurrent concepts, and LED light therapy as complements to advanced facial protocols.
Elevate your touch techniques with advanced European massage sequences, gua sha, facial sculpting movements, and décolleté and neck protocols.
Use the Fitzpatrick phototyping system, Glogau scale, and advanced assessment tools to build customized, condition-specific treatment plans for each client.
Master Estheticians are distinguished by their deep understanding of skin biology. AVI's curriculum grounds you in the science that drives intelligent, results-oriented skincare practice.
The Fitzpatrick Phototyping Scale (I–VI) classifies skin based on melanin content and UV response. Master Estheticians use it to select appropriate exfoliation agents, predict pigmentation risks, and customize treatments safely across all skin tones.
The stratum corneum and its lipid matrix form the skin's primary barrier. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL) measurements guide treatment intensity and homecare product recommendations, especially for sensitive, compromised, and mature skin.
Intrinsic aging reduces collagen synthesis, cell turnover slows, and elastin degrades. Photoaging compounds these changes through oxidative stress and MMP activation. Master Estheticians understand these mechanisms to guide appropriate, evidence-informed treatment selection.
Melanogenesis, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, and lentigines all require differentiated approaches. You will learn to identify each condition, understand its cause, and develop esthetic treatment strategies within the scope of practice.
In Virginia, the Master Esthetician credential is a separate license issued by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Here is the path from AVI graduation to holding your Master license.
Before enrolling in Master Esthetics, you must hold (or be eligible for) a Virginia Esthetician license, or have completed a Board-approved Basic Esthetics program. This is a prerequisite set by DPOR, not just AVI.
Attend all required theory and clinical hours. Maintain satisfactory academic progress and attendance per AVI's school policies. Receive your official certificate of completion upon graduation.
Apply to DPOR for the Master Esthetician license. Your application will require proof of your completed Basic Esthetics license, your Master Esthetics certificate of completion from an approved school, and applicable fees. AVI's team will help you understand the documentation required.
DPOR requires candidates to pass both a written (theory) examination and a practical (hands-on skills) examination to receive the Master Esthetician license. AVI's Module 8 is specifically designed to prepare you for both exams. Completion of the AVI program does not guarantee exam passage or licensure.
Upon successful examination and DPOR approval, you will receive your Virginia Master Esthetician license. You may then perform advanced esthetics services within the scope of practice permitted under Virginia regulations. Scope of practice is defined by DPOR and applicable Virginia law — always practice within those limits.
A Master Esthetician credential opens doors to advanced positions in the skincare industry. The following represent common career paths graduates may pursue.
Provide elevated skincare services at high-end spas, resort spas, and luxury hotel spas. Master Estheticians typically command higher service rates and access senior or lead esthetician roles.
Work in advanced skincare clinics, medi-spas, or physician-supervised settings where permitted by Virginia law. The scope of services available in medical settings is regulated by DPOR and applicable Virginia regulations.
Open your own advanced skincare studio offering specialized services such as chemical exfoliation treatments and customized treatment protocols. A Master Esthetician license allows a broader service menu within the permitted scope.
Share your advanced knowledge by teaching at a licensed cosmetology or esthetics school. A Master Esthetician credential combined with instructional training can open the door to an education career.
Professional skincare brands seek Master Estheticians as product educators, territory representatives, and brand ambassadors to train and support their professional accounts.
Destination spas and resort properties often require Master Esthetician credentials for their lead skincare roles. These positions frequently offer competitive compensation and benefits packages.
* AVI Career Training does not guarantee employment, specific job titles, income, or placement in any of the careers listed above. Career opportunities depend on individual performance, market conditions, licensure status, and other factors beyond the school's control. The scope of services a Master Esthetician may legally perform in a medical setting is governed by Virginia law and DPOR regulations and may require physician supervision or other approvals. Salary ranges cited in any AVI materials are illustrative and sourced from public labor market data; individual earnings will vary.
AVI's Master Esthetics students train with the same professional-grade equipment and products used in top spas and advanced skincare clinics.
Understand the difference between AVI's two esthetics programs to choose the right starting point for your career goals.
| Feature | Basic Esthetics (600 hrs) | Master Esthetics (600 hrs) |
|---|---|---|
| Program Level | Entry-level / Foundational | Advanced / Specialty |
| Prerequisite | High school diploma or GED | Virginia Esthetician license or Basic Esthetics completion |
| Clock Hours | 600 Hours | 600 Hours |
| License Earned | Virginia Esthetician License (DPOR) | Virginia Master Esthetician License (DPOR) |
| Chemical Exfoliation | ✓ Introductory | ★ Advanced (AHA, BHA, enzyme) |
| Microdermabrasion | — Not covered | ★ Full concepts & protocols |
| Lymphatic Drainage | — Not covered | ★ Advanced manual techniques |
| Fitzpatrick System | ✓ Introduction | ★ Clinical application |
| Skin Barrier Science | ✓ Foundational | ★ In-depth study |
| Pigmentation Treatment | ✓ Basic knowledge | ★ Advanced treatment protocols |
| Advanced Facial Massage | ✓ Classic techniques | ★ Lymphatic & specialty techniques |
| Professional Product Chemistry | ✓ Overview | ★ Advanced ingredient science |
| Medspa Eligibility (VA) | Limited — per DPOR scope | Broader — per DPOR scope & VA law |
| Financial Aid | ✓ Available for those who qualify | ✓ Available for those who qualify |
| Ideal For | Those entering the skincare field | Licensed estheticians seeking advanced credentials |
To enroll in AVI's Master Esthetics program, applicants must meet the following requirements. Contact our admissions team if you have questions about your eligibility.
Active Virginia Esthetician License or Basic Esthetics Completion
You must hold a current Virginia Esthetician license or have completed a DPOR-approved Basic Esthetics program (600 hours). Documentation required at enrollment.
High School Diploma or GED
A high school diploma, GED, or equivalent credential is required. Official transcripts or documentation may be requested.
Minimum Age: 18 Years
Applicants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of enrollment. A valid government-issued photo ID is required.
Completed Enrollment Application
Submit AVI's official enrollment application along with all required documentation and applicable fees.
Admissions Interview
An admissions interview with AVI's enrollment team helps ensure the program is a good fit for your career goals and prepares you for what to expect.
Financial Aid Pre-Approval (If Applicable)
Students seeking financial aid should connect with AVI's financial aid office early in the enrollment process to determine eligibility and complete required documentation.
AVI is committed to making advanced esthetics education accessible. We offer transparent tuition, flexible payment options, and guidance through financial aid for those who qualify.
Master Esthetics Program
Contact Us for Current Tuition Rates
Tuition includes program fees, curriculum materials, and access to AVI's professional training clinic. Kit and supply fees may apply separately. Contact admissions for a full cost of attendance disclosure.
Financial aid is available for those who qualify. Eligibility depends on factors including enrollment status, satisfactory academic progress, and federal guidelines. Contact AVI's financial aid office to determine your eligibility. The availability of federal financial aid for this program depends on AVI's current Title IV eligibility status — please confirm with our admissions office.
Everything you need to know about AVI's Master Esthetics program, Virginia licensing, advanced skincare techniques, and what to expect as a Master Esthetician.
Take the next step. AVI's Master Esthetics program gives you the advanced skills, clinical experience, and Virginia licensure preparation to reach the highest level of your skincare career. Financial aid available for those who qualify.
AVI Career Training • 1595 Spring Hill Rd, Suite 720, Tysons Corner, VA 22182 • Financial aid available for those who qualify