Aesthetic Nurse: Cosmetic & Medical Aesthetics Nursing
Aesthetic Nurses, also called Cosmetic Nurses, specialize in non-surgical cosmetic procedures including injectables (Botox, fillers), laser treatments, chemical peels, and other aesthetic treatments. This growing specialty combines nursing knowledge with artistry, working in medical spas, dermatology offices, plastic surgery practices, and aesthetic clinics.
What Aesthetic Nurses Do
Aesthetic nurses perform cosmetic injections (neurotoxins like Botox, dermal fillers), laser hair removal, skin resurfacing treatments, microneedling, chemical peels, and provide skincare consultations. They assess patients' aesthetic goals, create treatment plans, perform procedures, and educate patients on skincare and anti-aging techniques. Unlike traditional nursing, aesthetic nursing focuses on enhancing appearance rather than treating disease.
Salary & Compensation
Average Salary: $70,000 - $110,000+ annually
Entry-Level: $60,000 - $70,000
Experienced Aesthetic RN: $80,000 - $110,000
Commission-Based: Can earn $90,000 - $150,000+ with product sales and treatment commissions
Many aesthetic nurses earn commission on treatments and product sales, significantly increasing income potential. Private practice owners can earn $150,000+.
Work Environment
Settings: Medical spas (med spas), dermatology offices, plastic surgery practices, aesthetic clinics, cruise ships, luxury resorts
Schedule: Typically Monday-Friday, daytime hours, some evening/weekend availability for clients. Much better work-life balance than hospital nursing. NO holidays or on-call typically.
Clientele: Predominantly adult women and men seeking cosmetic enhancement, anti-aging treatments
Requirements & Skills
Certifications: Active RN license, specialized training in injectables (Botox/filler courses), laser safety certification, CANS (Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist) desirable
Key Skills: Injection technique, facial anatomy knowledge, aesthetic eye, customer service excellence, sales skills, skincare knowledge
Training: Most employers provide on-the-job training, but taking courses in aesthetic procedures enhances job prospects
Career Path
Aesthetic nurses can advance to Lead Injector, Medical Spa Manager, or open their own aesthetic practice (requires business acumen and startup capital - medical spas are growing business opportunity).
Pros & Cons
Pros: Monday-Friday daytime schedule (work-life balance), no bedside care/no heavy lifting, creative and artistic work, happy patients (elective procedures), commission potential, growing field, opportunities for entrepreneurship
Cons: Lower base pay than hospital nursing initially, requires sales skills, less job security (economic downturns affect elective procedures), can feel superficial vs. life-saving healthcare, liability if complications occur, competitive field
Aesthetic nursing attracts nurses seeking work-life balance, interested in beauty/wellness, comfortable with sales, and wanting to leave bedside nursing while using their RN license.