Job Spotlight

How to become a Cosmetic Nurse

Cosmetic nurses, also known as aesthetic nurses, provide non-surgical cosmetic procedures to enhance patients’ appearance and boost their confidence. They might perform treatments such as Botox injections, dermal fillers, chemical peels, and laser therapies. By offering expert advice and care, they help people achieve their aesthetic goals.

If you have a passion for skincare and beauty, enjoy helping others feel their best, and possess strong attention to detail, a career as a cosmetic nurse could be just what you’re looking for.

What skills do I need as a cosmetic nurse?

Calming bedside manner & interpersonal skills
Ability to work well under pressure
Great clinical & technical skills
Compassionate & patient
Knowledge of cosmetic products & procedures
Organised & efficient
Ability to use various equipment
Attention to detail
Committed to continuous learning

What does the job involve?

Confirming appointments & greeting patients
Ensuring a safe, sterile environment
Carrying out initial consultations & performing aesthetic procedures
Administering Botox, dermal fillers & other injectables
Carrying out facials, peels, microdermabrasion & laser treatments
Laser tattoo removal
Clinical management & updating patient reports
Developing & implementing treatment plans
Assisting with pre- and post-operative care

What industries do cosmetic nurses typically work in?

Beauty & Aesthetics
Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
Health & Wellbeing

What kind of lifestyle can I expect?

Cosmetic nurses often work in clinics, medical spas, or private practices, with typical hours aligning with standard business operations: a 9-5 schedule is common with this type of work. However, some roles may require evening or weekend shifts to accommodate patients’ schedules.

Most cosmetic nurses work full time, with an average of 42 hours per week. The work environment is generally clean and comfortable, with a strong emphasis on hygiene and patient safety.

How to become a cosmetic nurse

Because it’s a part of the healthcare industry and you’ll be carrying out procedures (albeit non-surgical), you’ll first need to complete a relevant nursing qualification, then specialise as a cosmetic nurse. Most clinics also require a 2 year minimum of injecting experience, so clinical placements will be essential while training for this role.

To start, you’ll need to complete Year 12 with a focus on English and maths. Biology and chemistry may also be useful if you’re going into a nursing degree afterwards.

Next, you’ll need to study a Bachelor of Nursing at university. Make sure you’re registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) as a Registered Nurse, and complete at least 1 year of work experience as an RN.

If you want to specialise as a cosmetic nurse, it’ll be useful to get a Graduate Certificate of Cosmetic Nursing to up-skill as a cosmetic nurse and increase your chances of being hired.

What can I do right now to work towards this career?

If you’re in high school and you’d like to find out if a career as a cosmetic nurse is right for you, here are a few things you could do right now:

Focus on subjects such as biology, chemistry, and health sciences to build a strong foundation.
Gain experience in customer service or healthcare settings to develop relevant skills.
Volunteer or seek internships in medical or beauty-related fields to explore your interests.
Research nursing programs and cosmetic nursing courses to plan your educational pathway.

Where can I find out more?

Find out more here:

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