If you are a newly graduated Registered Nurse (RN) and are considering a career in cosmetic injectables, there are many things you need to contemplate. The most important thing is training. This is the education needed for an RN to establish a foothold in the industry, and with it comes the competence, confidence and capability to perform the role as a cosmetic injector. It is the main, as well as the minimum, training any prospective cosmetics nurse should complete. A course in the fundamentals of aesthetic nursing should be a good starting point and become the cornerstone of future education in cosmetic injectables. Selecting a college and what they offer is a crucial step in your career pathway; carefully weigh up the injectables course you enrol in to ensure it covers the essentials.
The learning outcomes of the injectables course and the content in each module should be clearly defined. They give the best indication of what is covered in the training and allow the potential student to select a course that will best support their needs. Modules and the content covered should be listed; for example, a course in the foundations of cosmetic injectables should ideally include the opportunity to practice on live models, how to identify and manage complications, theory, and state-specific legislation. Education should incorporate not just when to inject but when not to, and how to safely manage a client’s expectations. It should cover areas such as infection prevention and control, compliance with your state’s poison’s acts, and insurance. Business theory should be incorporated into the training outcomes, such as setting up your own clinic and how to operate it, determining appropriate prices, and how to advertise effectively while still complying with legislation and guidelines.
The TGA is a national body responsible for the regulation of therapeutic goods and their supply, import, export, manufacturing and advertising. The information the TGA issues can change as legislation and best practice evolve, so it is important to keep on top of new developments. As a cosmetic nurse will be administering Schedule 4 (S4) medications during their practice, it is essential they are aware of the guidelines published by the TGA, as the consequences for noncompliance are severe. Ignorance is not an excuse. It is expected that as part of registration, nurses undertake mandatory education and abide by professional standards by staying on top of these changes, although training should preferably include these elements.
AHPRA’s role is to ensure that health practitioners are appropriately trained and safe to deliver services to the Australian public. Nurses and doctors form part of the cosmetic industry and they are two of the sixteen health professions regulated by AHPRA. Together with the National Boards (such as the Nursing and Midwifery Board and the Medical Board), AHPRA executes the “National Scheme” that regulates these professions. This scheme is governed by state laws that are also essential for practitioners to know; they govern the services delivered. AHPRA and the National Boards have released new guidelines specifically to protect the public seeking cosmetic injectables. Cosmetic nurses must familiarise themselves with this position statement – yearly registration mandates education of 20 hours relating to the nurse’s practice to maintain currency – a course in cosmetic injectables should include these updates too.
The Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Acts in each state set out the laws applicable surrounding, amongst other things, restricted substances and therapeutic goods. Cosmetic injectables are an S4 drug and therefore subject to these laws. It is important that an injectables course details these laws in your state of practice – that is, who can prescribe, purchase and store an S4 can differ depending on where you work.
Recently, practitioners in Queensland have found themselves practising illegally due to not keeping informed of changes to laws applicable to their clinics. Not being aware of the law change did not preclude them from penalties.
A course on cosmetic injectables can be expensive, but it should also be money well spent. What is included in a course is thoroughly vetted; it is important to pass on this knowledge because not knowing it could result in a practitioner losing their registration, or worse. Being familiar with the most current best practices, legislation, guidelines, and position statements forms part of a cosmetic nurse’s collection of resources, ensuring safe and legal practice. A cosmetic injectables course that incorporates essential information is an investment in your livelihood.
Derma Medical is an accredited provider of cosmetic injectables training for healthcare professionals across Australia. Whether you’re new to cosmetic medicine or looking to elevate your clinical skills, our aesthetic training is a great starting point, practical training, and ongoing support to help you achieve sustainable success in the cosmetic industry.
Why medical professionals choose to train with us:
If you’re looking to turn your clinical expertise into a career in aesthetics, contact Derma Medical or explore our cosmetic injectables courses to find the right course for your goals. Gain hands-on experience, expert guidance, and the confidence to begin your journey in aesthetic medicine today.
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