Working in medical aesthetics

This growing field offers exciting career opportunities for those passionate about blending healthcare expertise with artistic vision

The world of medical aesthetics is constantly evolving, fuelled by the advancement of technologies and a growing desire for non-surgical enhancements. To build a successful career in this ever-growing industry, you will need to have the right qualifications and skills that can help you stand out.

This includes a strong foundation in healthcare knowledge, coupled with an eye for aesthetics and the ability to create personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. With dedication and hard work, you can carve a fulfilling path in this exciting field and help people feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin.

What is aesthetic medicine?

 Aesthetic medicine, often referred to as cosmetic medicine, encompasses a range of minimally invasive and non-invasive procedures aimed at enhancing a patient's appearance.

From smoothing wrinkles with injectables to reducing cellulite with laser therapy, this field utilises cutting-edge techniques to address concerns like:

• fine lines and wrinkles
• ageing skin
• acne scarring
• uneven skin tone
• unwanted hair
• hair loss
• body contouring.

Unlike plastic surgery, aesthetic medicine primarily focuses on non-surgical procedures, making it a popular choice for patients seeking subtle yet impactful improvements.

How do I qualify in aesthetic medicine?

The landscape of who can enter the aesthetics field is evolving, and regulations vary slightly by region. Several career pathways can transition into aesthetic medicine due to their prior qualifications:

• doctors - their extensive medical training and surgical expertise make them well-suited for performing invasive procedures like Botox injections
• dentists and dental hygienists - their knowledge of facial anatomy and oral health translates well to procedures like dermal fillers for facial contouring and teeth whitening
• registered nurses and nurse practitioners - their clinical skills and patient care experience are valuable in administering injectable treatments, laser therapy, and skin rejuvenation procedures.

Several further education institutions now offer courses in aesthetics. University College Birmingham currently offer the BA in Aesthetics as a three year undergraduate course, while Newcastle College offer the BA (Hons) Advanced Skin Techniques as a one-year top-up option.

Studying for an MSc can demonstrate your commitment to the field, boosting your employability by showcasing your thorough academic exploration of aesthetics. These advanced courses cover topics such as the anatomy and physiology of the skin, including its various layers, cells, and blood vessels. 

Other potential modules include the use of laser and energy-based devices, such as intense pulsed light (IPL) and radiofrequency, chemical peels, which improve the appearance of the skin, and topical cosmeceuticals such as creams and serums, to improve the appearance of the skin.

Some courses also include business and practice management modules. This will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to run a successful aesthetic medicine practice, such as marketing, finance, regulations, and ethics.

These advanced course options include:

• Aesthetics (Aesthetic Surgery) MSc - University College London (UCL)
• Aesthetics (Minimally-invasive Aesthetics) MSc - UCL
• Aesthetic Dentistry MSc - Kings College London.
• Skin Ageing and Aesthetic Medicine MSc - The University of Manchester
• Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine MSc - University of South Wales.

Practitioners from basic healthcare backgrounds can also enter the field through specialised certifications such as postgraduate certificates (PGCert) which offer focused skills development without heavy research demands.

These certifications deepen your understanding of essential areas such as anatomy, physiology, and professional ethics while acquiring the latest knowledge on critical issues in aesthetic medicine. This allows you to expand your treatment options, enhance patient care, and boost your confidence as a practitioner.

Options to study a PGCert in aesthetics include:

• Aesthetic Medicine Online PGCert - Queen Mary University of London
• Cosmetic and Aesthetic Medicine PGCert - University of South Wales
• Advanced Aesthetic Dentistry PGCert - UCL
• Non-Surgical Facial Aesthetics PGCert - University of Salford.

Other popular options include non-surgical treatment courses, such as Botox and dermal filler training and cosmetic injectables courses. Researching reputable training providers and choosing programmes aligned with your career goals is highly recommended.

How much do aesthetics courses cost?

Introductory courses will cost relatively less than certificate programmes which dive deeper into aesthetic theory. For example, the botox and filler foundation training course from Cosmetic Courses costs £925, or £895 from Harley Academy. In comparison, the PGCert in Non-Surgical Facial Aesthetics PGCert from the University of Salford is £6,500 per year.

Degree programmes require more financial investment. University College Birmingham's BA in Aesthetics costs £9,250 per year while a Masters such as the Aesthetic Surgery MSc at UCL costs £15,100.

How do I become licensed and accredited?

Accreditation plays a pivotal role for practitioners, serving as a quality marker that safeguards patients, fosters ethical practices, and boosts the careers of aesthetic medics.

However, licensing and accreditation requirements can vary depending on your profession and the procedures you wish to perform. For doctors and dentists, maintaining registration with the relevant governing body, such as the General Medical Council (GMC) or General Dental Council (GDC) registration, is essential.

In addition, various other qualification-specific registrations may be required, depending on your chosen specialisation. For example, you may need to register with bodies such as:

• British Association of Cosmetic Nurses
• Care Quality Commission
• Joint Council for Cosmetic Dermatology.

To ensure that you maintain your licence and stay at the forefront of the field, it is crucial to commit to ongoing learning and updating your skills through accredited continuing professional development (CPD) programmes. By doing so, you can keep up with the latest developments and advances in your field, which will help you provide the best possible care and service to your patients.

How do I find work as an aesthetic medic?

The demand for aesthetic treatments is rapidly increasing, creating numerous opportunities for those interested in the industry. Aesthetic medicine offers a range of professional paths, including working in private clinics or practices. Establishing a reputation and network is crucial for success in the competitive landscape.

Both working in an aesthetics clinic and freelancing as a practitioner have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for you will depend on your individual preferences, skills, and career goals. Freelancing comes with a higher earning potential, especially if you build a strong reputation and client base, but greater responsibility for ensuring you meet all legal and regulatory requirements for practice.

Alternatively, some hospitals have dedicated departments focused on aesthetic medicine, offering specialised practitioners the chance to work in a hospital setting. Finally, companies involved in the research, development, and manufacturing of aesthetic equipment and products often seek qualified professionals for research, training, and sales roles.

Find out more

• Search for Masters degrees in aesthetics.
• Discover what you can do with a medicine degree.
• See what else the healthcare sector has to offer.