Entering Aesthetics: A Career in Dermatology Aesthetic Medicine 

Embarking on a career in Dermatology Aesthetic Medicine as a nurse can be immensely fulfilling and gratifying. It offers an opportunity to acquire new skills while leveraging your existing nursing expertise. However, before diving into this specialized field, there are several factors to consider:

New to Nursing?

As the leading Association for Aesthetic Nurses in Ireland, DANAI recommends that you acquire experience in general adult nursing before transitioning into aesthetic nursing. This foundational experience not only enhances your nursing and injecting skills, and patient relations, but also provides a solid framework for entering the aesthetic domain. Over 80% of our members have had over 10 years’ experience in the HSE before moving into Aesthetics.

Training

The Aesthetics industry in Ireland is unregulated, so it is important to know who is teaching you on any course.

DANAI advises thorough research before enrolling in any course, as accreditation is not standard. However a DANAI sub committee is currently working to approve a level 9 qualification in Aesthetic Nursing. Accredited courses offered by universities in the near future are expected to ensure trainee proficiency. The universities will be offering courses at a post basic degree level, in line with Department of Health and professional association recommendations. These accredited courses will be better placed to ensure the proficiency of trainees, and should be considered. We recommend you choose a healthcare professional to do a course with. Options are often discussed in the WhatsApp support group.

Prescribing

Many of the treatments we perform require the use of prescription only medicine or their use in managing complications. We recommend as best practice (and to ensure you remain within NMBI guidelines) that you work under the guidance of a prescriber and that the prescriber has experience in the treatments you wish to offer.

‍

• All patients receiving a POM should have a face to face consultation with the prescriber.

If you wish to undertake the prescribing course, many universities provide this course and it is worth contacting your local university. Many universities will accept placements from privately funded nurses. Please note however that there will be an expectation of the following: 

• That you have been practicing for a minimum of 1 year in the area you wish to prescribe.
• You will have arranged a Designated Medical Practitioner (typically a doctor) prior to the course.

If you are already a registered nurse prescriber, refer to the NMBI practice guidelines. We cannot therefore advise on this, although a 1 day training course would not be considered suitable justification.

Support and Resources

As you navigate your training and practice in Aesthetic medicine, DANAI provides essential support and resources. This includes biannual members' in person meetings, online resources and guidelines, DANAI discussion groups on a Whats App Group, Facebook Group, and best practice guidelines. DANAI is committed to upholding high standards and providing the peer support necessary for nurses in aesthetic medicine.

Closing Note

DANAI wishes you success in your journey into aesthetic medicine, offering assurance that we are here to support you every step of the way. We look forward to welcoming you into our community of dedicated aesthetic nurses.