How to become a Cosmetic Nurse

The beauty industry has seen exponential growth in recent years and cosmetic procedures are in ever-increasing demand.

But as demand for non-surgical cosmetic procedures grows, so too does the public's understanding of the importance of having qualified professionals perform those procedures, in order to reduce the risk of complications. 

Nursing is a versatile career, but whichever path is chosen, a nurse's primary role is to look after the health and wellbeing of their patients. 

Cosmetic nursing is no different, with the procedures they perform generally contributing to the overall self-esteem of their patients. 

What does a cosmetic nurse do?
Cosmetic nurses perform a range of non-surgical procedures to assist patients with their appearance. Procedures include:

Injections

• Botox
• Collagen/other fillers
• Neurotoxin
• Sclerotherapy

Skin treatments

• Microdermabrasion
• Tattoo removal
• Chemical peels
• Light therapy
• Micro-needling

Laser treatments

• Hair removal
• Skin rejuvenation 

Career opportunities 
There are numerous career options for cosmetic nurses, including self employment, with many choosing to establish their own beauty clinics or freelance at other establishments. 

Cosmetic nurses might also obtain employment at cosmetic medical practices or clinics, cosmetic day hospitals or medical spa facilities. 

Education
To become a cosmetic nurse in Australia you must first be qualified as a Registered Nurse. RN qualification is usually gained through the completion of a Bachelor of Nursing course, which takes around three years of full time study, however alternate pathways exist for qualified Enrolled Nurses.

The next step is to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, which sets policies and standards and regulates Australia’s registered health practitioners, and ideally, obtain some general nursing experience. 

To become a cosmetic nurse, registered nurses must complete a postgraduate qualification in cosmetic nursing, such as a graduate diploma.

A graduate diploma of cosmetic nursing course takes around 10 months full time and will provide you with the skills to perform cosmetic procedures, dermal treatments and injectable procedures including dermal fillers and muscle relaxants. Students are also required to complete 76 hours of clinical placement.

To view cosmetic nursing courses, click here.

Salary
Salary for a cosmetic nurse will vary depending on their experience, location and employer however salaries in excess of $80,000 are quite common. Many employers offer commission or incentive based packages which can increase earning potential.

For more information on nurse salaries, click here.