Short answer: For facials, waxing, lashes and brows in the US, 15 to 20% of the service price is customary. With no cash on you, the options are: use the tip screen, ask the esthetician to add it, use their payment handle or QR code, or add it when you rebook.
How much to tip an esthetician
| Situation | Usual tip |
|---|---|
| $25 brow wax | $4 to $5 |
| $90 facial | $14 to $18 |
| $150 lash extensions | $22 to $30 |
These are customary amounts in the United States, in US dollars. They are a guide, not a rule: tip more for exceptional service.
Do you have to tip an esthetician?
It is expected at spas, salons and waxing studios. At a medical spa or dermatology clinic, treatments given by a nurse or doctor are not tipped, and staff may not be allowed to accept one.
Can you tip an esthetician by card?
Waxing and lash chains usually offer a tip screen. Estheticians who rent a room and take payment by phone reader can normally add a tip too, but only if they remember to switch the prompt on.
4 ways to tip an esthetician without cash
- Use the tip screen. Chains ask at checkout.
- Ask the esthetician to add it. With a phone card reader the tip can be included in the charge if you say the amount first.
- Use their payment handle or QR code. Room-renting estheticians usually have one on their card or mirror.
- Add it when you rebook. Online booking systems often let you tip after the visit.
What a tip QR code does
If an esthetician shows you a QR code, point your phone camera at it. A payment page opens in your browser, you choose an amount, and you pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay or a card. You do not install anything or create an account, and it works with cards from other countries.
If you cannot tip on the day
Ask whether you can add it at your next appointment. Lash fills and waxing are repeat services, so there is nearly always a next time.
Outside the United States
Outside North America tipping for beauty treatments is light: round up or leave about 10% in the UK, and nothing is assumed in Australia.
Do you work as an esthetician?
Small, frequent services such as a brow wax are where clients are least likely to carry cash and most likely to skip the tip altogether. If you rent a room, you also have no front desk to handle it for you.
See how estheticians take card tips with a QR code: where to put it, what to write on the sign and how to mention it.
Common questions
How much should I tip an esthetician?
For facials, waxing, lashes and brows in the US, 15 to 20% of the service price is customary.
Do I have to tip an esthetician?
It is expected at spas, salons and waxing studios. At a medical spa or dermatology clinic, treatments given by a nurse or doctor are not tipped, and staff may not be allowed to accept one.
Can I tip an esthetician with a card or Apple Pay?
Waxing and lash chains usually offer a tip screen. Estheticians who rent a room and take payment by phone reader can normally add a tip too, but only if they remember to switch the prompt on.
What if I have no cash to tip an esthetician?
Ask whether you can add it at your next appointment. Lash fills and waxing are repeat services, so there is nearly always a next time.