Pursuing a career as an Aesthetic Nurse/NP

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Hello Nurse Beth,

I posted this question on allnurses.com, haven't received a reply. Hopefully you can help me. Or at least guide me in the right direction. I have returned to school in the field of nursing, interested in working as an aesthetic nurse (administering Botox, derma fillers, etc.) and pursuing a nurse practitioner degree; so I can eventually open my own clinic/ spa.

I currently reside in the state of Georgia and I am wondering what is the best route for me to take. I've read so many things out there and I'm confused. What is the best thing to do first...should I become an RN first or I read something about getting an esthetic certification; do you need to be an RN first before you can get an aesthetic certification or just pursue the RN to MSN (nurse practitioner) route? I am looking for the most economical and time efficient route that will get me to my ultimate goal (someone who can work in a med spa/clinic administer Botox, injectables, fillers, etc. to eventually having my own medical spa).

I am also reading that different states have limitations on what you can and cannot do. Any advice in regards to the state of GA's limitations would be wonderful.

I was thinking of applying to the accelerated BSN/MSN program at Emory to eventually become a nurse practitioner. Once I complete my prerequisites, now I am wondering if this is necessary or is there another or better route I should take?

Any advice will be GREATLY appreciated.

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Dear Aesthetics Nurse,

Aesthetics is a growing field, and I've always thought that it must be a happy practice environment for the most part.

You do not need to obtain esthetics training to work as an aesthetics nurse. Many nurses receive hands on training in a spa or clinic, or in a doctor's office. and once trained, Under a provider, and once trained, you can administer dermal fillers, Botox, perform chemical peels, and so on. It's within most states' nursing scope of practice to perform these procedures with the proper training. You can also obtain voluntary certification as a Certified Aesthetics Nurse Specialist (CANS).

But you are wanting to hang out your own shingle. Registered Nurses do own spas, but they hire a Medical Director to comply with state laws regarding medical and nursing practice.

I would not open a spa or clinic and perform medical treatments, even as a Nurse Practitioner, without a medical Director and without legal advice. If these cosmetic treatments are defined as medical treatment/practice in your state, you will need a provider.

I am not sure being a Nurse Practitioner will directly help you in your business goal,although it certainly aids your credibility and builds public trust. There are some NPs here on site with far more knowledge than myself, who hopefully will chime in with their expertise.

Best wishes,

Nurse Beth

[Kiki1970]

Excellent response! I'm a licensed aesthetician and have been for 16 years. It was a fallout profession after having to drop out of an ASN program years prior.

This may not be the best route for you, but obtaining your ASN or BSN first will still allow you to open your business, but do it with a director or in addition to an established practice/med spa. Plastics and derm is so much fun and very gratifying.

We're following the same dream- good luck!