When you decide that you’d like to try out Botox treatment, you may immediately discover that the internet is full of confusing information. You hear about people throwing Botox parties, having Botox injections readily available to anyone. Then, you find out that you can walk into a hair salon and receive Botox as an added extra. It can seem like the world has gone topsy-turvy when it comes to medical treatments.
However, to clear a few things up, it’s important to understand that you should only ever get Botox injections from a medical professional who is trained in the process.
In Australia, any muscle or wrinkle relaxants are classed as Schedule Four medication. As a result, you need a prescription for Botox from a doctor. A registered nurse can also inject Botox but only under the supervision of a doctor – and once they complete a training course. If anyone other than a doctor or nurse is offering Botox, it’s not a legitimately sourced medication and may not be safe.
If you are a Division Two nurse, you can complete training in medications to be able to administer cosmetic injections with supervision. A cosmetic injector must also have vast knowledge in both surgical and non-surgical treatments to ensure they apply the best approach to each patient.
Someone without this experience in the medical field may not know how to deduce whether a patient is fit for Botox injections or not. Not everyone is.
What’s more, a nurse or doctor must also know facial anatomy, pharmacology, nerve blocks, contraindications, dilutions, and complete full patient assessments with complication management too. In essence, someone in the field of cosmetic medical procedures must be skilled in several areas – not only Botox or other dermal fillers.
In Australia, but not other parts of the world, there is little wiggle room surrounding injectables and using them if you are not a nurse or doctor. However, if you wish to get into the realm of Botox injections, you can complete the Advanced Diploma of Cosmetic Dermal Science.
From here, you would gain industry experience. Then, you can complete a registered nursing course before studying for your graduate diploma in cosmetic nursing.
Alternatively, you could look at a Bachelor of Nursing followed up with a Diploma in Cosmetic Nursing. Rules surrounding Botox injections are a little more relaxed in other parts of the world.
While standards for Botox injections differ, depending on where you’re living or holidaying, there are strict practices and procedures in place in Australia. These exist to keep both the medical practitioner and the patient safe. If you are interested in getting Botox, make sure you see a doctor or nurse who is qualified to provide it. Ask to see their qualification and ask about the products they will be using to ensure it is genuine Botox.