How To Become A Cosmetic Nurse In Australia: A Complete Guide

Do you wonder if becoming a cosmetic nurse is your right career choice? If so, you have come to the right place.

Cosmetic nurses are in high demand, and becoming one is a popular career option in Australia. It allows you to earn a high wage while helping and treating people.

In the post below, you will learn everything about becoming a cosmetic nurse in Australia, including the salary, courses, qualifications, education requirements, how much they make, the tasks you may undertake as a cosmetic nurse, and much more.

1. What Is A Cosmetic Nurse?

Cosmetic nurses play a vital role in offering cosmetic services and patient care. Regarding highly regarded professions in Australia, cosmetic nursing secures a position within the top 10.

This field is experiencing remarkable growth and is considered one of the fastest-growing careers in the country. The surge in demand for cosmetic procedures is a significant factor driving this trend.

As individuals become increasingly aware of the importance of their facial and bodily appearance, the demand for cosmetic nurses will skyrocket in the coming decade.

2. What Do Cosmetic Nurses Do?

Cosmetic nurses excel in administering cosmetic procedures to patients, including cosmetic injections and various skin therapies.

Additionally, they play a crucial role in supporting cosmetic surgeries under the guidance of surgeons and doctors, showcasing their high level of professionalism.

Their expertise extends to performing diverse tasks, such as administering skin fillers, conducting non-invasive body contouring treatments, handling laser procedures, and even performing microblading sessions.

3. Major Duties And Tasks of Cosmetic Nurses?

The field of Cosmetic Nursing encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities and tasks. Cosmetic nurses share certain responsibilities with Dermatology Nurses, as both professions involve addressing skin-related concerns and matters of appearance.

Nevertheless, the scope of a Cosmetic Nursing career varies based on individual areas of specialisation and additional certification prerequisites.

The following are the main functions and tasks of Cosmetic Nursing:

• Assist doctors in pre-and post-operative care

• Perform highly professional extensive tasks like skin fillers, non-invasive body contouring, therapies, and laser

• Work under the supervision of a Doctor or Surgeon with various cosmetic surgeries and procedures

• Preparing and sterilizing instruments and operating rooms

• Consultation, screening, and scheduling of patients

• Researching to stay up to date on new methods and protocols

• Examining skin aging or other skin-related health issues

Cosmetic Nurses work in various settings, which include hospitals, clinics, dermatology offices, and medical spas. They work directly under a Physician, Plastic Surgeon, or dermatologist's supervision.

4. Where Do Cosmetic Nurses Work in Australia?

Cosmetic Nurses work under the supervision of Dermatologists and plastic surgeons in hospitals, clinics, and dermatology clinics.

5. Qualifications To Become A Cosmetic Nurse in Australia

To work as a Cosmetic Nurse in Australia, the first step is to become a registered Nurse through the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

Subsequently, specialisation in cosmetic nursing is required to pursue a career in this field.

Here are the steps to qualify for this role:

• Complete a bachelor's degree in nursing, like a Bachelor of Nursing or Bachelor of Science (Nursing). Alternatively, if you have an unrelated degree, complete a Master's degree in nursing.

• Register with the AHPRA to become a Registered Nurse.

• Obtain at least two years of practical nursing experience after completing your bachelor's degree or while pursuing an approved postgraduate qualification in cosmetic nursing, such as the Graduate Diploma of Cosmetic Nursing and Injectables (52852WA).

6. Steps To Become a Cosmetic Nurse in Australia

Here is a breakdown of the steps to become a cosmetic nurse in Australia:

Step 1: Earn A Bachelor of Science In Nursing

Acquiring a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing from a recognised university is necessary to become a Registered Cosmetic Nurse in Australia.

This degree program typically takes four years to complete. Additionally, pursuing a Diploma in Cosmetic Nursing can further enhance your qualifications and enable you to work as an Enrolled Nurse in cosmetic nursing.

Step 2: Apply To AHPRA

All cosmetic nurses must register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

AHPRA is the national body that establishes policies and standards and regulates health services.

Step 3: Get Nursing Experience

Before entering a professional field as Cosmetic Nurse, it is necessary to gain some experience as this degree requires a lot of commitment.

You should practice and get some experience under the supervision of a certified cosmetic nurse or a cosmetic surgeon.

Step 4: Earn A Graduate Diploma In Cosmetic Nursing

After obtaining your nursing degree, pursuing a formal cosmetic nursing qualification recognised by the Australian Qualification Framework is essential.

One such qualification is the Graduate Diploma in Cosmetic Nursing, which provides comprehensive knowledge and skills in the field. This diploma program spans one year, divided into two semesters.

By completing the graduate diploma, you aim to gain valuable skills and experience to serve you well in your future career endeavours.

Step 5: Look For A Job

You will become eligible to pursue employment as a cosmetic nurse after completing the steps above. Begin by actively seeking job opportunities in various hospitals and clinics.

While these steps provide a foundation for becoming a cosmetic nurse in Australia, it is essential to note that this is a specialised field.

To become a skilled and certified cosmetic nurse, it is recommended to engage in an internship or training program where you can acquire and practice essential modules.

Furthermore, the field of cosmetic nursing offers numerous career opportunities, including but not limited to:

• Laser cosmetic nurse

• Certified cosmetic nurse specialist

• Medical cosmetic sales employee

• Aesthetic medicine

• Aesthetic medical sales

• Aesthetic nurse

• Cosmetic laser specialist

The Following Are The Basic University Entry Requirements:

• GAMSAT: You are required to appear in the graduate medical school admission test and pass with a decent score.

• GPA: The GPA requirement varies from university to university. However, You must earn an excellent GPA to attend a medical institute.

• Interview: The university might interview before admission. Interviews play a vital role in the admission process as it is a pathway to get to know the students and their potential.

7. Benefits of Becoming A Cosmetic Nurse

The following are the benefits of the cosmetic nurse in Australia:

• Career advancements

• High Market Demands

• Decent salary

• Job security

• Flexible hours

• Growing industry

• Various job opportunities

8. What Are The Skills Required To Become A Cosmetic Nurse in Australia

• Ability To Work Alongside A Doctor: As a Cosmetic Nurse, working alongside cosmetic surgeons and exhibiting strong teamwork skills is vital. Collaboration with a team of doctors and nurses is common during cosmetic procedures, necessitating a friendly and cooperative approach to achieve optimal outcomes.

• Hard Work and Passion: Hard work is crucial for success in any profession, including cosmetic nursing. The field requires dedication and sincerity due to the degree's extensive modules and demanding nature.

• Professionalism: Maintaining professionalism is paramount in cosmetic nursing, with the primary objective being the safety and well-being of patients. A professional cosmetic nurse excels in effective communication and practices honesty throughout their interactions with patients and colleagues

• Keen Learner: If you are passionate about learning, this profession is perfect for you, as the learning process never stops. The cosmetic nurse will continue learning new techniques and methods. Continuous learning and education will be a requirement to manage this job.

• Great Communication Skills: To become a cosmetic nurse, you must have excellent communication skills, as you have to explain cosmetic procedures to the patients.

• Patience: Becoming a cosmetic nurse is a long process, so patience is the key. You should maintain patience under every circumstance. Usually, patients are already nervous, so you should have ultimate patience to deal with everyone.

9. How To Become A Cosmetic Nurse Without A Degree?

Every field and degree requires a process to follow. Some careers require a degree, internship programs, and extensive study modules, while others are less difficult.

If you want to become a cosmetic nurse, a degree is a primary step. You can only become a certified cosmetic nurse with a degree.

10. How Long Does It Take to Become A Cosmetic Nurse In Australia?

Becoming a certified cosmetic nurse in Australia takes three to four years of dedicated effort and commitment.

Pursuing this profession requires a profound passion and unwavering dedication, making the journey easier for aspiring individuals.

11. How Much Does a Cosmetic Nurse Make in Australia?

The average cosmetic nurse's salary in Australia is $76,740 per year.

It may vary based on the following:

• Their qualification levels

• Years of experience

• Where they work 

• Who employs them

• Nature of employment (full-time employed in a healthcare facility, working on a sub-contractor basis, or running their cosmetic business)

In line with most healthcare professions, employed cosmetic nurses also receive excellent compensation and benefits on top of their basic annual salary. 

Some of these include:

• Sick leave

• Paid vacation

• Health, vision, and dental insurance

• Reimbursement for study-related expenses

• Prescription coverage

Ways to increase your earnings as an employed cosmetic nurse:

• Choose to work at a location that has a high cost of living. Such locations are likely to offer higher salaries.

• Gain experience working with different patients, procedures, and work settings alongside other cosmetic professionals. One of the ways to build experience is to work in an entry-level role, helping a cosmetic nurse.

• Patients usually prefer a more qualified cosmetic nurse to operate on them. So, consider extending your level of qualification by completing a postgraduate diploma after your bachelor's degree or a Master's in Advanced Nursing.

• Consider working for commission-based employers such as medical day spas or boutique cosmetic clinics that offer commission or incentive-based payment packages. A commission-based role doesn't guarantee higher earnings. Still, it offers an opportunity to improve your monthly earnings that wouldn't exist otherwise.

12. Are Cosmetic Nurses in Demand in Australia?

As people become more conscious of their looks, they consider cosmetic procedures and injectables to get the desired appearance.

It translates to a rising demand for quality trained cosmetic nurses and related professionals to perform the procedures and provide care to patients undergoing them.

The cosmetic aesthetic industry is a rapid-growing industry in Australia with ample opportunities for cosmetic nurses to deliver the services and care that the industry requires.

If you are well-qualified and skilled, you can find many opportunities to work within the industry in a variety of settings, such as:

• Public and private hospitals

• Clinics

• In research and development.

• Ophthalmologist's offices

• Medical spas

• Cosmetic dermatology practices

• Outpatient surgery facilities

• Private practices

13. Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)

What is The Work Environment for a Cosmetic Nurse in Australia?

Cosmetic nurses work full-time or part-time in public clinics, hospitals, and medical spas. Opportunities are also available to work as a freelanceer and run your private practice.

Cosmetic nurses work a consistent schedule, making them ideal for those who prefer a more traditional nine-to-five schedule than a 12-hour shift.

Their work hours vary based on their nature of employment, work setting, and their individual needs.

The type of patients they cater to depends on their work setting. For example, cosmetic nurses in private clinics specialising in aesthetic skincare assist different types of patients than those in hospitals.

Do Cosmetic Nurses Do Plastic Surgery?

A cosmetic nurse is a registered nurse who can perform:

• Non-surgical procedures related to dermatology or cosmetology 

• Laser treatments

• Tattoo removal, and other skin treatments

Based on their speciality and area of focus, they may help plastic and cosmetic surgeons in theatre with injections, plastic surgery, and anaesthetics.

Can Enrolled Nurses Inject Botox?

As per the Nursing and Midwifery Board Australia (NMBA), ENs cannot prescribe Schedule 4 cosmetic injections.

According to the NMBA, ENs presently working in cosmetic medical procedures:

• Can administer dermal filler injectables to high-risk areas, such as temples, peri-orbital and medial cheek, and nasolabial folds, in a clinical setting alongside a medical practitioner, Registered Nurse, or Nurse practitioner.

• Can't administer dermal filler injectables to very high-risk areas such as the nose, glabella, and forehead.

Do You Have To Be a Nurse To Do Aesthetics in Australia?

Yes. You need first to become a nurse to specialise in cosmetics and work as a cosmetic nurse in Australia.

Becoming a Nurse requires studying for 3 to 3.5 years of full-time Bachelor's Degree in Nursing and registering for AHPRA. It is essential as it forms the base for the nursing and cosmetics field.

Is Becoming a Cosmetic Nurse a Good Career?

Yes. It is an excellent career for individuals enthusiastic about aesthetic health and helping others. The job offers the opportunity to make people happier, more content, and more confident in their skin.

Working in this role, you get to work on new and challenging tasks, with a range of patients in a less stressful work environment.

Moreover, the vast cosmetic healthcare industry provides you with various options to specialise in a specific sub-field, such as:

• Aesthetic nurse injector

• Laser nurse

• Cosmetic dermatology nurse

Additionally, it is a high-demand profession and offers enticing salaries in Australia. Overall, Cosmetic nursing is a rewarding profession that will bring as much satisfaction and joy in your life as in your patients' lives.

How Do I Start as an Aesthetic Nurse?

To pursue a career as an aesthetic/cosmetic nurse in Australia, follow these steps:

• Complete a Bachelor's Degree in Nursing

• Register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency, a national agency that governs registered medical practitioners in Australia. 

• Build two years of nursing experience before working as a cosmetic nurse. Some of the options include: Work with a certified cosmetic nurse and help with injectables procedures, assist in clinics or hospitals with board-certified plastic/cosmetic/ aesthetic surgeons, dermatologists, or ophthalmologists. 

• Complete a Certificate in Cosmetic Nursing to develop knowledge and hands-on skills in various cosmetic treatments.

The Cosmetic Professional Development Institute Australia is a leading training centre offering professional qualifications in cosmetic nursing to help you reach your career goals.
 

Based on your skill level, consider enrolling in the following courses to become a qualified cosmetic nurse:
 

• 2-day foundation neurotoxin injectables course

• 4-day fundamentals in cosmetic injectables

• Fundamentals in cosmetic dermal practice

• Advanced aesthetic practitioner course (116 CPD hours)

• Advanced aesthetic practitioner

How Much Can an Injector Make?

According to Glassdoor, the average Cosmetic Injector's salary in Australia is $35 per hour. They also earn additional cash compensation between $4,800 and $4,800 annually.

How To Become a Cosmetic Injector Without Being a Nurse?

According to the Medical Board Recommendations, aspiring cosmetic injectors must be AHPRA registered practitioners capable of injecting Schedule 4 Medications.

To apply for an AHPRA registration, you must have registered as a Nurse and midwife with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.

The most common path to becoming a Registered nurse is to complete a 3 to 3.5 years bachelor's degree in Nursing. However, you can also pursue this role by completing an associate's degree and becoming an enrolled nurse instead of a registered one.
 

Though an associate degree is less time-consuming, enrolled nurses need more experience in the cosmetic field to qualify for a cosmetic injection specialty and have to work under the direct supervision of a registered nurse.

How Do I Become an Injectable Cosmetic Nurse in Australia?

To become an injectable cosmetic nurse in Australia, follow the steps outlined below:

• Become a Registered Nurse by completing a university degree like a four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing or a two-year Associate's Degree in Nursing.

• Find work opportunities at a local medical spa or a related setting to gain experience as an aesthetic injector. The training you get working with other experienced injectors will help you build work experience.

• Get certification in aesthetic injections from an experienced and reputable training provider to kickstart your professional journey as an injectable cosmetic nurse in Australia. Getting certified before applying for jobs will improve your employability and chances of landing your first job. 

How Do You Become a Filler Injector?

Dermal filler injectors must be medical practitioners with the expertise to ensure they conduct injectable aesthetic procedures safely and efficiently in the aesthetics industry.

To perform cosmetic injectables, you must complete a medical degree and become a registered doctor, registered nurse, physician assistant, or nurse practitioner.

Professionals in any of these professions can complete specialised training courses on dermal filler injections to develop background and hands-on practice in cosmetic procedures.

MATA is a leading Botox and dermal filler training institute that run internationally recognised aesthetic injectables training courses for medical practitioners like doctors, nurses, and dentists in Sydney, Australia.

You will find courses for beginner to advanced practitioners that run over six to twelve months through online learning and hands-on training to give you the confidence, skills, and knowledge needed to practice safely and successfully in your job.

Some of these include:

Beginner-Level Courses

• Foundation Cosmetic Injectable Training 2 days

• Foundation Cosmetic Injectables Mentorship - 1 day

Advanced Level Courses

• Advanced Cosmetic Injectables Courses - 2 days

• Advanced Cosmetic Injectables Mentorship Day - 1 day

• Lip Fillers Masterclass - 1 day

• Postgraduate Diploma in Facial Aesthetics – 6 to 12 days of practical training 

• Level 7 Diploma in Facial Aesthetics: 150 hours of e-learning

12. Closing words

Cosmetic nursing is a rewarding and empathetic profession, offering job security due to high demand.

Working as a cosmetic nurse allows for skill development, growth, and flexibility with part-time options. Though the certification process may take time, the wait is worthwhile.

Hopefully, this guide made it easier for you to understand the career choices, job prospects and study pathways, career opportunities, internships, and salary expectations of cosmetic nurses.

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