Popular Careers in Beauty: From Cosmetologist to Cosmetic Nurse
By Dr. Stephen Cosentino
PRESIDENT OF EMPIRE MEDICAL TRAINING
Are you ready to embark on a career change that allows you to help people look and feel their best? If so, the beauty industry might be the perfect fit for you. However, choosing to enter this exciting field is just the first step. The next challenge is determining which beauty career path aligns best with your personality, skills, and experience.
In this article, we'll explore three popular and complementary careers in beauty: cosmetology, cosmetic nurse, and aesthetic medicine. While these aren't the only options available in the beauty field, they represent some of the most sought-after professions. Let's delve into each career path to help you make an informed decision about your future in beauty.
Cosmetology: The Foundation of Beauty Services
Cosmetologists are versatile professionals who work in various settings, including:
- Medical spas
- Day spas
- Hair and nail salons
- Tattoo parlors
These beauty experts perform a wide array of cosmetic services, such as:
- Hairstyling and coloring
- Nail care and design
- Makeup application
- Skincare treatments
- Hair removal
When working with advanced technologies like lasers, pulsed light, or specialized chemicals and equipment, cosmetologists typically operate under the supervision of a cosmetic nurse or aesthetic physician. This supervisory structure makes cosmetology an excellent starting point for those interested in gaining experience in the broader field of aesthetic medicine.
Education and Training for Cosmetologists
To become a licensed cosmetologist, you'll need to:
- Complete a state-approved cosmetology program
- Pass a state licensing exam
- Fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain your license
The length of cosmetology programs varies by state but typically ranges from 9 to 15 months for full-time students.
Cosmetic Nursing: Bridging Beauty and Healthcare
Cosmetic nurses, also known as aesthetic nurses, work under the supervision of board-certified aesthetic physicians, often dermatologists or plastic surgeons. These healthcare professionals typically hold a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or even a Nurse Practitioner (NP) degree.
Cosmetic nurses perform more specialized services than cosmetologists, including medical procedures that require close physician supervision. Some of these services include:
- Botox and dermal fillers
- Chemical peels
- Laser hair removal
- Microdermabrasion
- Sclerotherapy for varicose veins
- Pre- and post-operative care for cosmetic surgery patients
Becoming a Cosmetic Nurse
The path to becoming an aesthetic nurse requires several steps:
- Enroll in a qualifying nursing program (BSN recommended)
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam to become a registered nurse
- Gain experience in a related nursing field (e.g., dermatology, plastic surgery)
- Work toward the Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) certification offered by the Plastic Surgical Nursing Certification Board (PSNCB)
Obtaining the CANS certification can take an additional couple of years but will expand your career opportunities and increase your salary potential.
Continuing Education for Cosmetic Nurses
As a cosmetic nurse, you'll need to participate in ongoing aesthetic training workshops to fulfill your job duties and meet continuing education requirements. These may include:
- Botox training and certification
- Dermal filler workshops
- Advanced skincare techniques
- Laser therapy courses
Why Become an Aesthetic Physician
Becoming an aesthetic physician offers the widest range of career opportunities and typically commands the highest salaries in the beauty industry. Aesthetic physicians are often dermatologists or plastic surgeons who have completed additional training in cosmetic procedures.
Roles and Responsibilities of Aesthetic Physicians
Aesthetic physicians may:
- Supervise medical spas and cosmetic surgery practices
- Perform facial plastic surgery and other cosmetic surgical procedures
- Administer minimally invasive treatments such as Botox and dermal fillers
- Develop and oversee hormone and anti aging therapies
- Create and manage weight loss programs
Education and Training for Aesthetic Physicians
The path to becoming an aesthetic physician is lengthy and rigorous:
- Complete a bachelor's degree (typically in a science-related field)
- Attend medical school and earn an MD or DO degree (4 years)
- Complete a residency in dermatology, plastic surgery, or a related field (3-7 years)
- Obtain board certification in your chosen specialty
- Complete additional training in aesthetic procedures and treatments
Choosing Your Path in the Beauty Industry
When deciding which beauty career path is right for you, consider the following factors:
- Your current level of education and willingness to pursue further studies
- The amount of time you're willing to invest in training and certification
- Your interest in performing medical procedures versus non-medical cosmetic services
- Your desired level of responsibility and supervisory roles
- Your salary expectations and career growth aspirations
Remember that your career goals may evolve over time, and it's possible to start in one area of the beauty industry and transition to another as you gain experience and additional education.
Diverse Opportunities
The beauty industry offers a diverse range of career opportunities for those passionate about helping others look and feel their best. Whether you choose to pursue cosmetology, cosmetic nursing, or aesthetic medicine, each path provides unique challenges and rewards.
By understanding the requirements, responsibilities, and potential career trajectories of each profession, you can make an informed decision about which beauty career path aligns best with your goals and aspirations. Whichever path you choose, a career in beauty can be both personally fulfilling and professionally rewarding.
