How to Become an Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nurse

Aesthetic/Cosmetic nursing is a rewarding career path that allows nurses to assist in providing various cosmetic procedures and treatments to patients. As an aesthetic nurse, you will work closely with plastic surgeons and cosmetic dermatologists to enhance patient appearances and boost their self-confidence. If you are interested in pursuing a career in this field, this guide will provide you with the necessary steps to become a successful aesthetic/cosmetic nurse.

The Role of an Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nurse

Aesthetic nurses play a crucial role in providing pre- and post-operative care to patients undergoing plastic surgery procedures. They also deliver care under the supervision of a physician, providing services such as injections of dermal fillers and Botox, photofacials, dermabrasion, micro-needling, tattoo removal, and non-surgical body contouring. Aesthetic nurses primarily work in private offices or medical spas affiliated with plastic surgery practices or cosmetic dermatology practices.

Step 1: Earn Your Registered Nurse Degree

To become an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse, you must start by obtaining a registered nurse degree. This can be achieved through a two-year associate’s degree in nursing (ADN) or a four-year bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. Nurses who hold a BSN degree may have an advantage in finding job opportunities in the aesthetic/cosmetic nursing field. Some nurses may choose to pursue higher degrees such as Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) to become aesthetic nurse practitioners.

Step 2: Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam

After completing your registered nurse degree, you will need to pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your nursing license. This exam is required to become licensed by one or more states.

Step 3: Gain Experience

To enhance your skills and expertise as an aesthetic nurse, it is essential to gain experience in the field. Spend at least two years working in core competencies with a board-certified physician in plastic/aesthetic/cosmetic surgery, dermatology, facial plastic surgery, or ophthalmology. This experience will provide you with valuable insights and hands-on training necessary for your future career.

Step 4: Earn a Certified Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nurse Specialist Credential

To stand out in the competitive job market and position yourself for the best aesthetic/cosmetic nurse jobs, consider obtaining an aesthetic nurse certification. There are several certifications available, including:

1. Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS)
2. Certified Plastic Surgery Nurse (CPSN)
3. Dermatology Nurse Certified (DNC)
4. Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner (DCNP)

These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field, increasing your chances of securing a lucrative position as an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse.

Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nurse Specialties

As an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse, you can choose from various specialties to further enhance your career. Some common specialties include:

Nurse Injector

Nurse injectors specialize in cosmetic treatments that involve needle injections to improve or enhance the appearance of the face. This can include administering botulinum toxins like Botox or Dysport to smooth facial muscles, dermal fillers to sculpt and fill the face, and fat reduction injections such as Kybella to eliminate excess fat in specific areas.

Laser Facial Nurse

Laser facial nurses perform laser treatments to minimize wrinkles, reduce acne scarring, and improve skin discoloration caused by sun exposure. These nurses use laser equipment to remove the skin’s outer layers and stimulate collagen production, resulting in smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

Tattoo Removal Nurse

Aesthetic nurses specializing in tattoo removal use laser technology to eliminate unwanted tattoos. They must be knowledgeable about different types of laser systems, proper laser settings, removal techniques, and potential risks associated with the treatment.

Laser Hair Removal Nurse

Laser hair removal is a popular aesthetic procedure, and nurses in this specialty utilize laser technology to remove unwanted hair. They must provide safe and effective treatments and educate patients about proper aftercare.

Chemical Peel Nurse

Chemical peel nurses perform aesthetic treatments that involve applying a chemical solution to the skin, causing the outer layers to peel off. This reveals smoother and younger-looking skin underneath.

Non-Surgical Body Treatment Nurse

Nurses specializing in non-surgical body treatments help patients improve their appearance and overall well-being. These treatments can include radiofrequency for cellulite reduction, contouring procedures like Emsculpt, and fat reduction procedures like CoolSculpting.

Aesthetic Nurse Salaries

Aesthetic nurse salaries vary based on factors such as education, certification, experience, and geographic location. According to ZipRecruiter, the average annual salary for a cosmetic nurse in the United States is around $89,970. However, experienced cosmetic nurses can earn as much as $138,500. Additional benefits such as paid vacation, sick leave, health insurance, and educational reimbursement can further enhance overall compensation.

Tips for Becoming an Aesthetic Nurse

To succeed in the field of aesthetic nursing, consider the following tips:

1. Watch YouTube videos to familiarize yourself with different aesthetic treatments and techniques.
2. Attend a Botox and filler certification course to gain hands-on experience and enhance your resume.
3. Engage with and follow aesthetic injectors on social media to establish connections and learn from industry experts.
4. Improve your social media presence, particularly on professional platforms like LinkedIn, to showcase your passion and skills.
5. Be patient and persistent in pursuing opportunities. It may take time to break into the industry, but perseverance will pay off.

Organizations Supporting Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nurses

Several organizations provide resources, professional development opportunities, and support for aesthetic/cosmetic nurses. These organizations include:

• Dermatology Nurses Association
• International Society of Plastic and Cosmetic Nurses
• The American Association of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery

By joining these organizations and staying updated on the latest advancements in the field, you can further enhance your career as an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse.

In conclusion, becoming an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse requires a combination of education, experience, and certification. It is a field that offers rewarding opportunities to help patients improve their appearance and boost their self-confidence. By following the steps outlined in this guide and staying committed to professional development, you can build a successful career as an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse.