How to Become an Aesthetic Nurse
An aesthetic nurse, also known as a cosmetic nurse, specializes in procedures requested by patients who wish to change their physical appearance. They often assist plastic surgeons, cosmetic dermatologists, dermatology nurse practitioners, and other specialists in aesthetic medicine.
Are you curious about this specialty? Let’s explore what these nurses do, where they work, important skills to hone, and other aspects of aesthetic nursing.
What Do Aesthetic Nurses Do?
How do these nurses spend their time? Below are some examples of routine tasks:
- Actively listening to patients’ concerns
- Performing thorough patient assessments prior to any treatment
- Administering injections, peels, and laser treatments
- Educating patients on procedures and aftercare
- Providing pre- and post-operative care
- Sterilizing medical equipment
- Scheduling and screening patients
Where Do Aesthetic Nurses Work?
These nurses have a variety of settings to choose from. To get a better idea of where you might work, check out the latest aesthetic nurse jobs to see who’s hiring. Here are some examples of aesthetic medicine work environments:
- Medical spas
- Plastic surgery centers
- Dermatologist offices
- Outpatient medical clinics
- Ambulatory care facilities
Aesthetic Nurse Specialties
The flexibility doesn’t end with workplace environments — there are plenty of specialties for you to choose from. Check out these niches:
Chemical Peel Nurse
These nurses apply chemical peels to their patients’ faces. The objective of these treatments is for the patients’ faces to appear more youthful upon peel removal.
Tattoo Removal Nurse
These nurses specialize in tattoo removal with the use of lasers. They may also aid the patient in reducing scars post-treatment.
Injectables Nurse
These nurses specialize in treatments involving injectables. For example, neuromodulators (like Botox or Dysport) and dermal fillers are used to reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
Laser Facial Nurse
These nurses specialize in laser treatments. They reduce scarring, skin discoloration, and other growths the patient wants removed.
Laser Hair Removal Nurse
These nurses also use lasers. In this case, they specialize in hair removal by using the laser to vaporize unwanted hair over a short series of treatments. The number of necessary treatments is unique to the patient’s body.
Non-Surgical Body Treatment Nurse
These nurses use non-surgical methods to change the patients’ appearance. They help reduce cellulite, sagging skin, and extra fat.
Steps to Become an Aesthetic Nurse
Joining the ranks of these nurses may be easier than you think. Below, we describe the steps to work in this rewarding specialty.
1. Attend Nursing School
Nursing school is where you learn the foundational knowledge you need to work as a nurse. The classes in nursing school cover a broad range of subjects, which enables you to choose a specialty down the line. You’ll also gain experience through simulations and clinicals.
2. Pass the NCLEX
After school, you’ll need to pass the NCLEX-RN to qualify for state licensure. The NCLEX exam tests you on the knowledge you acquired in nursing school. The exam reflects your ability to work as an entry-level nurse. Check out our guide on how to prepare for the NCLEX.
3. Gain Hands-On Experience
Aesthetic medicine is unique, and like any nursing specialty, you need a firm grasp of foundational skills before delving into this work. Administering injections and maintaining a sterile environment are a couple of key skills you could add to your aesthetic nurse resume to join this field.
4. Consider Certification
Obtaining a certification for aesthetic nursing enriches your practice and shows future employers you are serious about your career. Your deepened knowledge can boost your confidence in your capabilities, as well as your value in the eyes of prospective employers.
Aesthetic Nurse Certification
Would you be interested in advancing your aesthetic nursing career? Here are some certifications that can be helpful:
- Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS)
- Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board (PSNCB)
- Dermatology Nurse Certified (DNC)
- Dermatology Certified Nurse Practitioner (DCNP)
Aesthetic Nurse Skills
Every nursing specialty requires unique traits. Here are some skills that are useful for this specialty.
Compassion
The desire to change one’s appearance is often rooted in a variety of complex emotions. Patients must reveal a number of vulnerabilities to seek your services, so treating them with compassion is key in this field.
Active Listening
In aesthetic nursing, it’s your job to learn exactly what the patient wants to change about themselves, and why. Some procedures require patients to repeatedly seek your services, so you will develop a rapport with many of them. Active listening helps you stay on top of your game, and makes your patients feel comfortable with you.
Detail Orientation
Many cosmetic procedures focus on wrinkles, fine lines, and other minute changes in appearance. These details may seem small, but they’re a big deal to your patients. Plus, many of your patients will be seeking facial changes, so mistakes could be detrimental to their self-esteem and day-to-day life.
Adaptability
Sometimes things don’t go as planned, and that can be especially nerve wracking during surgical procedures. You and your coworkers must think quickly when something unexpected happens — your patient’s well-being depends on it.
How Much Do Aesthetic Nurses Make?
The average aesthetic nurse salary salary in the U.S. is $49,711 per year. Keep in mind that your salary may vary based on your location, years of experience, and the facility in which you work. The states that pay the highest annual salaries to nurses are:
Is Becoming an Aesthetic Nurse Right for You?
Whether you’re looking for an aesthetic nursing role or one in another specialty, IntelyCare can help you find your next job. Find out how we can match you with specialized nursing jobs in your preferred care setting today.