5 Steps to Becoming an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner (2023)

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May 27, 2022

5 Steps to Becoming an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner (1)

Considering a career as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner? You’re not alone! The generous salary, regular hours and comparably less stress than many other nursing specialties make it a really popular choice. And, it has the added benefit of potentially allowing you to own your own medical aesthetics practice, depending on the state you work in.

While all nurses are dedicated to improving the quality of life and health of their patients, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners specifically focus on improving their patient’s appearance. In doing so, they provide a medical service that can make a significant difference in how patients feel about themselves and in the image that they project to the world.

A career as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner has a lot to offer. This guide will help you figure out if it’s the right path for you!

Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners are Advanced Practice Registered Nurses who specialize in cosmetic medical procedures that improve their patients’ appearance.

Whether they are working collaboratively with physicians or independently in their own practice, they work directly with their patients:

  1. Consulting with them about their concerns and questions
  2. Providing information about the options available for elective procedures
  3. Performing those procedures

There are many quality-of-life advantages to a career as an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, including being able to work autonomously in your own practice, having the chance to establish one-on-one relationships with patients, and not having to face on-call or emergency schedules.

(Video) How I became an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner/Injector

Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners examine and evaluate patients, counsel them on a variety of procedures, perform those procedures, and care for them as they recover.

Depending on where they work, they may also be responsible for many other day-to-day aspects, particularly if they are running their own practice.

If an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner works as a staff member for a dermatologist or plastic surgery practice, they will:

  1. Work collaboratively with physicians
  2. Assist in performing surgeries
  3. Oversee patient education and recovery
  4. Administer procedures

The clinical procedures that Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners can perform or oversee include:

  1. Injections of dermal fillers or Botox to improve the appearance of crows’ feet and wrinkles, to make lips look fuller and to counter the effects of aging
  2. Sclerotherapy procedures to eliminate varicose veins through the injection of a solution into the veins
  3. Laser skin treatments such as microdermabrasion, photo facials, and tattoo removal

Where Do Aesthetic NP’s Work?

Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners generally work in private settings rather than in hospitals. These may include medical spas or private practice clinics.

Some Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners even own and operate their own Cosmetic Clinics.Nurse.org has an awesome interview about Tatyana Melnik, MSN, APRN on what it's like to own a cosmetic clinic as a nurse practitioner.

What are the Hours Like?

Aesthetic procedures, including surgical procedures, are almost entirely scheduled during regular working hours on an outpatient basis.

Show Me Nurse Practitioner Programs

In addition to being a great career, you also have the ability to earn a high salary as an Aesthetic NP. The BLS reports that Nurse Practitioners earn a median salary of $123,780 as of May 2021. While they don't have specific salaries for Aesthetic NPs, according to Payscale.com, the average national salary for an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner is $85,360 or $47.92 per hour.

Highest Paying States for Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners

According to the BLS, these are the highest paying states for all nurse practitioners, which includes aesthetic NPs.

(Video) How I Became an Aesthetic Nurse at 23

  1. California - $151,830
  2. New Jersey - $137,010
  3. New York - $133,940
  4. Washington - $130,840
  5. Massachusetts - $129,540

Highest Paying Cities for Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners

According to the BLS, these are the U.S. cities where NPs can earn the highest salaries.

  • San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA - $197,870
  • Napa, CA - $184,700
  • Vallejo-Fairfield, CA - $180,380
  • San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA - $177,160
  • Yuba City, CA - $159,260

Show Me Nurse Practitioner Programs

If you want to become an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, you’ll need to complete the following steps.

  1. Earn Your Registered Nurse Degree

    Becoming an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse begins with a registered nurse degree, and that can be gained through either a two-year Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree.

  2. Pass the NCLEX-RN

    Once a nurse has earned their RN degree from an accredited nursing program they will need to pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become licensed in their state.

  3. Advance Your Education

    In order to become an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, you’ll need to earn either an MSN or DNP from an accredited Nurse Practitioner program.

  4. Gain Experience

    Upon graduation, most Nurse Practitioners who are interested in becoming Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners spend time training with dermatologists or plastic surgeons in order to perfect their skills.

  5. Get Certified

    Certifications are not required butthey do demonstrate a dedication to the field. These certifications are available through the Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board.

    There are also courses available from the American Aesthetic Association, the American Association of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery, and the International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine.

Careers in Medical Aesthetics are growing rapidly as the popularity of medical spas and procedures to enhance appearance enjoy continued popularity.

(Video) HOW TO BECOME AN AESTHETIC NURSE INJECTOR 2022 | Step-By-Step Journey, Degrees, Certificates, Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growing desire among both women and men to counter the effect of aging on their appearance is driving the aesthetics professions to new heights and expected employment growth of 29% from 2020 to 2030.

At this time there is no certification program available to confirm an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner’s credentials, so continuing education requirements will be restricted to those required by the individual state in which a Nurse Practitioner practices.

For a listing of each state’s Nurse Practitioner continuing education requirements, click here.

Show Me Nurse Practitioner Programs

The field of aesthetics allows Nurse Practitioners to provide direct patient care while exercising their creativity, and in some states, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners can open their own medical spas and be entirely autonomous.

For more information about how to enter this exciting career, support and resources are available through:

  1. The American Association of Nurse Practitioners
  2. The Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board
  3. The American Aesthetic Association
  4. The American Association of Aesthetic Medicine and Surgery
  5. The International Association for Physicians in Aesthetic Medicine

You can also learn more about aesthetic/cosmetic nursing through Nurse.org! Check out our other related articles:

  1. How to Become an Aesthetic/Cosmetic Nurse
  2. This is How I Became an Aesthetic Nurse Injector at a Cosmetic Clinic
  3. I'm an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner and This is What It's Like To Own a Cosmetic Clinic
  • How long does it take to become an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner?

    • Currently, there are no programs dedicated specifically to becoming an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, so those interested in the position start by following the path to becoming a Nurse Practitioner and then take additional classes or pursue on-the-job training to learn the specific skills needed for the career.
  • How much do Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners make per hour?

    • The average hourly wage for an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner in the United States is $47.92 per hour. The average annual salary is $85,360 according to Payscale.com.
  • Can Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners own their own practice?

    • Many states permit Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners to own their own practices. These are considered Full Practice States, where Nurse Practitioners are able to evaluate patients and initiate and manage treatments without the supervision or oversight of a physician. Reduced Practice and Restricted Practice states restrict this ability.
  1. General Nurse Practitioner
  2. Family Nurse Practitioner
  3. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
  4. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner
  5. Acute Care Nurse Practitioner
  6. Neonatal Nurse Practitioner
  7. Women's Health Nurse Practitioner
  8. Orthopedic Nurse Practitioner
  9. Emergency Nurse Practitioner
  10. Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practitioner
  11. Oncology Nurse Practitioner

*Indicates an affiliate link. At no additional cost to you, Nurse.org may earn a commission if you click through and use this service.

$100,000+ Doctorate RN Aesthetic/Cosmetic NP Masters Non-Bedside

FAQs

How do you become an aesthetic practitioner? ›

To be a qualified aesthetic practitioner, you likely want to get a bachelor's degree in aesthetics. Going to university for aesthetic practitioner training provides you with all the experience and credentials required to immediately start as an aesthetician.

What qualifications do I need to be an aesthetic nurse? ›

These are the steps you'll need to take to get there.
  • Step One: complete a nursing degree and get NMC registration. ...
  • Step Two: get post-qualification nursing experience. ...
  • Step Three: find an entry-level position in aesthetics, or undertake training.

Can you become an aesthetic practitioner without being a nurse? ›

There are several types of medical aesthetic training courses available while all require you to be either a Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Physician Assistant, Physician, or Doctor of Dentistry.

How do I become an aesthetic nurse prescriber? ›

They include being: – Three years post-qualification. – Having at least one year of experience of practising within the field you want to prescribe in (so, in this case, aesthetic medicine). – Registered with the NMC, with the required professional indemnity insurance.

What is a level 7 aesthetics practitioner? ›

The Level 7 Diploma in Clinical Aesthetic Injectable Therapies is a qualification for new and existing aesthetic injectors practising in botulinum toxin and dermal fillers.

Can a nurse inject Botox without a doctor? ›

RNs and RPNs can administer Botox only when all of the below criteria are met: You obtain an appropriate order from an NP or physician. You determine that the order is clear, complete and appropriate.

How do I start a career in aesthetics? ›

10 Steps to Kick Start Your Aesthetic Career
  1. Researching – is there a demand/ much competition in your area? ...
  2. Training in the correct field. ...
  3. Business Structure. ...
  4. Creating a business plan. ...
  5. Naming your business & creating a logo. ...
  6. Funding your business. ...
  7. Finding a location. ...
  8. Registering your business.
27 Apr 2021

What are aesthetic nurses called? ›

Aesthetic nurses, also known as cosmetic nurses, are registered nurses who provide aesthetic and cosmetic services and care to their patients. These nurses have specialized training in services ranging from fillers, laser skin treatments, liposuction, tattoo removal, aesthetic surgery, and more.

Can RNS do Botox? ›

Who may inject Botox? Physicians may inject Botox, or they may direct registered nurses or physician assistants to perform the injection under their supervision.

Who can do Level 7 aesthetics? ›

The level 7 aesthetics qualification is suitable for all medically registered professionals including: Doctors, Dentists, Independent Nurse or Midwife Prescribers, Nurse Practitioners (without independent prescribing rights) or Midwives (without independent prescribing rights).

What qualifications do I need to inject Botox? ›

In order to administer Botox injections, you must be a physician, physician assistant, dentist, registered nurse or another licensed healthcare practitioner. The minimum degree requirement for most of these professionals is a four-year bachelor's degree in pre-medicine, biology or related science.

Who can inject fillers? ›

Which Medical Professionals Can Perform Botox And Dermal Filler Procedures?
  • MEDICAL DOCTORS. Medical doctors are eligible to give BOTOX® and dermal filler procedures provided they undergo a certified and updated training course.
  • REGISTERED NURSES AND PRACTITIONERS. ...
  • DENTISTS. ...
  • PHYSICIAN ASSISTANTS. ...
  • TALK TO US.
14 Oct 2015

What is a qualified aesthetic practitioner? ›

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN AESTHETIC PRACTITIONER? This is a role that is primarily within the Medi-spa Sector. It is focused on skin and skin health, understanding how the skin functions and the options and treatments that are available to help clients improve and optimise their skin.

How difficult is the V300 course? ›

The course was tough, stressful and the pressure regarding the pass rates was intense. However I have no regrets. “If you want to do this course you will have to be focused and commit your life to it for 6 months; but it will be worth it.”

Can non medics do Level 7 aesthetics? ›

The Level 7 in Aesthetic Practice is the first externally accredited vocational Level 7 qualification for medics and non-medics.

What is the highest qualification in aesthetics? ›

Fast Track Level 7 Diploma

Through Recognition of Prior Learning, we allow experienced practitioners to meet the HEE and JCCP requirements without taking time out from their busy clinics. Upon completion, you will have the highest level of formal qualification possible in Aesthetic Medicine.

Can Level 3 beauty therapist do Botox? ›

You'll need a prescriber for Botox but not for dermal filler. The rules are different because Botox is a MEDICINE whereas filler is a MEDICAL DEVICE. Details will be covered within this course. You will need your Level 3 NVQ in order to attend this course- We do a FAST TRACK 14 day course.

How long is aesthetics training? ›

There are two ways to obtain a Level 7 qualification; the first is to complete a three year postgraduate degree in aesthetic medicine. Alternatively, there are now several independent training providers offering Level 7 courses that can be completed in a much shorter timescale than a three year degree.

Do you tip Aesthetician for Botox? ›

The only person you never need to tip is a doctor, even for aesthetic treatments like Botox (another reason to only get injections from a dermatologist or plastic surgeon). At the end of the day, all of these stylists, aestheticians, and technicians live off their tips, so be sure to help them after they've helped you.

How much do you tip your injector? ›

Tipping standards in the cosmetic and beauty industry are subjective. A general tipping etiquette is anywhere from 10% to 20%, but this standard is by no means universal.

Can you inject filler as an RN? ›

Answer: Can an RN inject Botox and Fillers? Hello Vivid. The answer to your question for California is yes, nurses can perform these procedures under the supervision of a physician.

What is the highest paying job in the beauty industry? ›

7 Highest Paying Jobs in Cosmetology in 2022
  • 1.1 SKINCARE SPECIALISTS.
  • 1.2 THEATRICAL AND PERFORMANCE MAKEUP ARTISTS.
  • 1.3 BEAUTY COPYWRITERS.
  • 1.4 COSMETIC SURGEONS.
  • 1.5 BEAUTY BLOGGERS.
  • 1.6 CORPORATE TRAINERS OR INSTRUCTORS.
  • 1.7 IMAGE STYLISTS AND CONSULTANTS.

What should I study for aesthetics? ›

The Study of Aesthetics. Fields of knowledge interested in the study of aesthetics have been mostly philosophy, art, architecture, and the behavioral sciences. Each field has dealt with aesthetics from their own perspective, serving their own purposes, and reflecting their own world views and ideologies.

How do I study for aesthetics? ›

Don't feel compelled to make aesthetic notes if you think you'll end up wasting too much time.
...
  1. Step 1: Start with the right materials – the basics. ...
  2. Step 2: Practise your handwriting. ...
  3. Step 3: Establish your own style. ...
  4. Step 4: Write in point form and draw diagrams. ...
  5. Step 5: Highlight and colour code your notes.
9 May 2020

Where do aesthetic nurses get paid the most? ›

Alaska is the state with the highest average salary for Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners. The average yearly salary is $106,194, though the salaries can range from $91,570 to $123,715.

Is aesthetic nursing hard? ›

Mentally taxing, physically exhausting, and emotionally draining. Being an aesthetic nurse is not all glitz and glam like everyone thinks. There is a lot of mental stress, pressure to deliver results & meet expectations, and a whole lot of hand holding.

Can RN's do microneedling? ›

Injectables, microneedling and dermaplaning

In the Golden State, nurses and other licensed medical professionals can inject Botox and fillers and conduct microneedling and dermaplaning treatments, but under no circumstances should anyone else be doing it.

What is a nurse that does Botox called? ›

A certified aesthetics nurse specialist can administer Botox and other dermal fillers.To obtain this credential, an RN should complete the following: - 2 years of supervised work under a board-certified physician. - An up-to-date license. - At least 1,000 practice hours.

How long does it take to be a cosmetic nurse? ›

In general, it takes 4-7 years to become a cosmetic/aesthetic nurse (it depends upon the type of degree obtained and length of time spent passing the NCLEX-RN).

How much do nurse injectors make? ›

Cosmetic Nurse Injector Salaries
Job TitleSalary
Results Laser Clinic Cosmetic Nurse Injector salaries - 2 salaries reported$37/hr
Artisan Aesthetic Clinics Cosmetic Nurse Injector salaries - 2 salaries reported$80,000/yr
Private Practice Cosmetic Nurse Injector salaries - 1 salaries reported$106,000/yr
11 more rows

What is a Level 5 Diploma? ›

Level 5 qualifications are: diploma of higher education ( DipHE ) foundation degree. higher national diploma ( HND )

Is aesthetic practitioner a good career? ›

Financial remuneration. Aesthetics can be a very lucrative career option for doctors, as it is pretty much all private work.

Is it worth getting into aesthetics? ›

Benefits of learning aesthetics:

A stress-free working environment. Your patients will appreciate your work and thank you. You will be happy and enjoy your work. Flexibility of work: you can work as a mobile aesthetician in your free time, in a clinic or partner with a salon to provide treatments.

How do I start a career in Botox? ›

How to Get Certified in Botox Injections
  1. Meet the Requirements. If you are not a physician, nurse or medical professional, you cannot administer Botox. ...
  2. Enroll in a Botox Certification Course. There are many Botox and dermal filler training courses out there. ...
  3. Attend Botox Training & Earn Your Botox Certification.

How much does it cost to do a Botox course? ›

Aesthetic Courses Pricing

At our training centre, we offer professional aesthetics courses in London at the following prices (all prices excluding VAT): Dermal Fillers 1 Day Course: £850. Botox 1 Day Course: £750. Combined Course, Dermal Fillers & Botox 2 Day Course: £1440.

Do you need qualifications to do lip fillers? ›

Having dermal fillers is usually safe if it's done by an experienced and suitably qualified practitioner. Check the person doing your dermal fillers is on a register to show they meet set standards in training, skill and insurance. Avoid practitioners who have only completed a short training course.

Can an esthetician do lip fillers? ›

In principle, there is nothing to stop any person carrying out filler injections. It is legal to do so without any formal qualifications and there are no laws to control who carries out cosmetic treatments. HOWEVER…

Can an esthetician open a medical spa? ›

Only physicians can own med spas. While a physician assistant can own minority shares in a med spa or serve as a minority partner with a physician or physicians, other health care providers such as nurse practitioners and non-medical professionals cannot.

Can you inject filler without being a nurse? ›

You can't become a certified cosmetic injector without becoming a registered nurse. Aesthetic or cosmetic nurses are legally registered to provide injection services. Cosmetic or aesthetic nurses can inject dermal fillers, Botox or Dysport, or perform non-surgical body contouring services.

What is the difference between an aesthetic practitioner and a medical aesthetic practitioner? ›

In essence, the difference between an 'Aesthetic Practitioner' and a 'Medical Aesthetic Practitioner' is accountability. governing body. For example, I'm a registered adult nurse with four years' experience working in aesthetics and a further three years working as an intensive care nurse.

How do I become a non medical aesthetic practitioner? ›

To become a non-medical aesthetics practitioner, you would need to complete a Level 2 and Level 3 beauty therapy qualification which would generally take two years. Once this has been completed, you would choose your Non-medical Aesthetics route, and this would take another 3 - 6 months.

How do I become a Botox practitioner? ›

Here we offer our 8 Step Guide to Becoming an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner.
  1. Step 1 – Registration with the NMC. ...
  2. Step 2 – Prescribing the Botox. ...
  3. Step 3 – Finding a Botox Training Course. ...
  4. Step 4 – Attend your Foundation Training – Botox Training for Nurses. ...
  5. Step 5 – Pharmacy and Insurance. ...
  6. Step 6 – Start Practicing.

How much does V300 cost? ›

Course fees. The standard course fee is £1,200.

Can I prescribe Botox with V100? ›

I have the supplementary prescribing status (V100) can I prescribe botox? You will not be able to independently prescribe botox and we do not believe you will be able to use a CMP for cosmetic botox injections as they are intended for long term conditions.

How much do you pay a prescriber for Botox? ›

You can expect to pay the prescriber a small fee of around 10% for consulting the patient and writing the prescription – however the mark up on botulinum toxin treatments is usually 300-400% so you will see make a good profit from performing treatments.

What qualifications do you need to be an aesthetic practitioner? ›

To be a qualified aesthetic practitioner, you likely want to get a bachelor's degree in aesthetics. Going to university for aesthetic practitioner training provides you with all the experience and credentials required to immediately start as an aesthetician.

Can I do aesthetics without a degree? ›

To become an aesthetician, you need an advanced Level 4 Qualification. At Ray Cochrane, we have a range of advanced aesthetics qualifications, taught to meet the industry standard and client demands. The Level 4 Chemical Skin Peel, Level 4 Microneedling or Level 4 Laser & IPL.

Can a nurse own an aesthetic clinic? ›

Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners generally work in private settings rather than in hospitals. These may include medical spas or private practice clinics. Some Aesthetic Nurse Practitioners even own and operate their own Cosmetic Clinics.

What qualifications do I need to become an Aesthetician? ›

The most common route to becoming an aesthetician is to study for NVQs in facial and skincare, then undertake further studies in specific treatments. A great starting point is a level 2 NVQ facial and skincare course. Once complete, further courses to consider are: NVQ level 3 anatomy and physiology.

What qualifications do you need to do an aesthetics course? ›

To become an aesthetician, you need an advanced Level 4 Qualification. At Ray Cochrane, we have a range of advanced aesthetics qualifications, taught to meet the industry standard and client demands. The Level 4 Chemical Skin Peel, Level 4 Microneedling or Level 4 Laser & IPL.

Can you be an aesthetic practitioner without a degree? ›

The minimum requirement to work as a beauty therapist in a salon or on a self employed basis is a Level 2 qualification. This is usually considered to be “junior” level in a salon environment and enables the therapist to practice some of the most popular beauty treatments such as waxing, manicures and pedicures.

What type of aesthetician makes the most money? ›

An esthetician specializing in multiple services such as eyelashes and waxing can make upwards of $50,000 a year. The average salary for these skin industry professionals was $31,290, but the top 10% of those earning an esthetician's salary was $59,790. Medical estheticians make more than spa estheticians, on average.

What is an esthetician vs aesthetician? ›

Generally, estheticians focus on cosmetic treatments, and aestheticians' roles are more medical. Due to this difference, aestheticians' titles can also include medical, clinical, or paramedical. However, these roles, their duties, and their titles can vary state to state.

How do I get Level 7 aesthetics? ›

As part of the Level 7 Diploma, you will carry out at least 20 supervised injectable treatments on your mentoring sessions for your case logbook. Your Mentoring Sessions are the best way to gain hands-on practical skills and experience in aesthetic injectables.

How long is aesthetic course? ›

The training program in General Aesthetic Surgery is a two-year training program designed to provide gradual progressive clinical experiences in the practice of general aesthetic surgery.

How do I become a botox practitioner? ›

Here we offer our 8 Step Guide to Becoming an Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner.
  1. Step 1 – Registration with the NMC. ...
  2. Step 2 – Prescribing the Botox. ...
  3. Step 3 – Finding a Botox Training Course. ...
  4. Step 4 – Attend your Foundation Training – Botox Training for Nurses. ...
  5. Step 5 – Pharmacy and Insurance. ...
  6. Step 6 – Start Practicing.

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