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The aesthetics injectables market has witnessed remarkable growth, with analysts projecting an opportunity for even more significant expansion in the coming years.
As the cosmetic nursing industry thrives, many medical professionals are exploring new career avenues, and aesthetic nursing jobs are becoming increasingly popular. For registered nurses (RNs) with an entrepreneurial spirit, aesthetic nursing offers a promising career path with ample opportunities.
However, for those embarking on this journey, the initial question often revolves around where to start and what's required to procure aesthetic nursing jobs.
Read on as we share the qualifications and prerequisites for aesthetic nursing jobs, including the essential aesthetic nurse certification requirements. Additionally, we'll delve into the factors to consider when selecting the best aesthetic nurse certification courses.
Part I: Qualifications for Aesthetic Nursing Jobs
Becoming an Aesthetic Nurse
Aesthetic nurses specialize in performing minimally invasive cosmetic procedures, such as injectables, laser treatments, and chemical peels. To embark on a career as an aesthetic nurse, you'll need specialized training beyond your existing credentials as an RN or nurse practitioner (NP). This specialized training focuses on patient assessment, developing appropriate treatment plans, and performing cosmetic procedures.
Benefits of Opening a Med Spa
As the cosmetic industry flourishes, medical professionals are increasingly drawn to the world of aesthetic nursing. With the allure of an additional $7 per hour compared to traditional nursing roles, aesthetic nursing jobs have become the go-to career choice for many. The combination of financial rewards and the opportunity to provide aesthetic enhancements make it a viable option for RNs with an entrepreneurial spirit.
Procedures Performed by Aesthetic Nurses
Aesthetic nursing job procedures encompass a wide range of services, including but not limited to:
- CoolSculpting
- Chemical peels
- Microdermabrasion
- Laser facial treatments
- Laser hair removal
- Non-surgical body treatments (e.g., radiofrequency)
- Injecting Botox and dermal fillers, two of the most popular med spa procedures
- Education and Certification Requirements
To qualify for aesthetic nursing jobs, you must meet specific education and certification criteria:
- Possess an Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
- Accumulate two years of work experience as an RN, with at least one year in cosmetic areas such as aesthetic surgery or dermatology.
- Attain the Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) credential.
- Renew your CANS credential every three years.
- Maintain continuing education to retain your nursing licensure.
Part II: Evaluating Aesthetic Nurse Certification Options
Factors to Consider in Aesthetic Nurse Certification
Selecting the right aesthetic nurse certification program depends on several factors, including your location and availability of training options. While evaluating these programs, consider the following essential factors:
- Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by a reputable regulatory body in clinical aesthetics.
- Certificate: Confirm whether the program offers a recognized certificate upon course completion.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Assess whether the curriculum covers crucial topics, including facial anatomy, injection techniques, and safety precautions.
- Qualified Instructors: Verify the experience and qualifications of the instructors teaching these techniques.
- Hands-on Training: Determine the extent of practical, hands-on training provided, including opportunities to practice on live models under supervision throughout the course.
- Ongoing Support: Explore whether the program offers mentorship or follow-up training courses to further enhance your skills.
Choosing the right aesthetic nurse certification program is a crucial step in your career journey. While your location plays a role in the available options, several factors can help you make an informed choice.
Excellent training, strong mentorship, and hands-on experience with live models are the keys to success. Look for programs with small classes, positive reviews or personal recommendations, and accreditation by reliable regulatory bodies. The curriculum should comprehensively cover facial anatomy, injection techniques, and safety precautions, taught by experienced and qualified instructors.
Practical training on live models, frequent opportunities for practice, and ongoing support or follow-up training courses are vital elements to consider. Remember: always prioritize programs that offer hands-on experience, as it is the most effective way to improve your skills.
Part III: Leveraging Your Aesthetic Nurse Certification
Career Paths for Aesthetic Nurses
Once you've obtained your aesthetic nurse certification, various career paths become available, including positions in:
- Dermatology offices
- Outpatient clinics
- Private clinics
- Med spas
- Cosmetic day hospitals
- Skin surgery centers
Additionally, you can venture into the entrepreneurial world and open your med spa. Managing your patient load, being your own boss, and tapping into unlimited earning potential might be appealing to you.
TL;DR: Becoming an Aesthetic Injector and Mastering the Medspa Biz
- Aesthetic nursing offers a thriving career path with significant earning potential.
- To become an aesthetic nurse, specialized training beyond RN or NP credentials is required.
- Key qualifications include an ASN or BSN, two years of RN experience (with one year in cosmetics), and the CANS credential.
- When choosing an aesthetic nurse certification program, prioritize accredited programs with comprehensive curricula, hands-on training, and support.
- Aesthetic nurses can explore entrepreneurial opportunities like opening their med spa for greater autonomy and income potential.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the idea of opening your own med spa, you’re not alone and you don’t have to do it alone.
Moxie is here help you:
- Find a medical director
- Secure appropriate insurance
- Set a medspa start up budget
- Select an initial location
- Design your launch services menu and pricing
- Promote your services
Learn more about how Moxie helps entrepreneurs open and run profitable medical spas!
When you're ready to take the next step in launching or growing your aesthetic practice, here are 3 ways Moxie can help:
