# Aesthetic Education — Comprehensive Reference

> Aesthetic Education (aesthetic.education) is a medical and aesthetic training provider offering hands-on certification courses in Botox, dermal fillers, PRP/PRF, PDO threads, and other aesthetic procedures for healthcare professionals. The site also provides comprehensive patient-facing treatment guides and career resources. All medical content is educational and informational.

**Website:** https://aesthetic.education
**Phone:** 1-866-261-5164
**Training locations:** 15+ U.S. cities
**Accreditation:** CME/CE credits available
**Experience:** 25+ years, 50,000+ professionals trained
**Class size:** Small groups of 6 or fewer with MD instructors

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## Botox (OnabotulinumtoxinA)

Botox is a purified form of botulinum toxin type A that temporarily relaxes facial muscles to reduce wrinkles. It is the most popular cosmetic treatment in the United States with over 9 million treatments performed annually. FDA approved since 2002.

**How it works:** Blocks nerve signals (acetylcholine) to targeted facial muscles, preventing contraction and allowing overlying skin to smooth out.

**Cost:** $10–$15 per unit nationally. Geographic range: $8–$12/unit (Midwest) to $12–$18/unit (NYC/LA).

| Treatment Area | Units Needed | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Forehead lines | 10–30 units | $200–$400 |
| Frown lines (glabella) | 20–25 units | $200–$375 |
| Crow's feet (per side) | 12–24 units | $200–$400 |
| Bunny lines | 5–10 units | $50–$150 |
| Lip flip | 4–6 units | $100–$300 |
| Masseter/jaw (per side) | 25–50 units | $400–$800 |
| Neck bands (platysma) | 25–50 units | $300–$600 |

**Results timeline:** Visible at 3–5 days, peak at 2 weeks, last 3–4 months. Annual maintenance cost: $1,200–$3,000.

**Source:** [Botox Complete Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/botox/) | [Botox Cost Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/botox-cost/)

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## Masseter Botox & Jaw Slimming

Botox injection into the masseter (jaw) muscles for cosmetic jaw slimming and therapeutic treatment of TMJ disorders, teeth grinding (bruxism), and jaw tension.

**How it works:** Relaxes overactive masseter muscles, reducing their size over 4–8 weeks for a slimming effect while relieving jaw tension and grinding.

**Cost:** $400–$900 per session. Typically 25–50 units per side (50–100 total units).

**Results:** Visible in 2–4 weeks, peak at 8–12 weeks. Can reduce masseter muscle volume by up to 30%. Lasts 4–6 months. Effects are cumulative with repeated treatments.

**Dual purpose:** Both cosmetic (V-shaped face contouring) and therapeutic (TMJ/bruxism relief).

**Source:** [Masseter Botox Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/masseter-botox/)

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## Dysport (AbobotulinumtoxinA)

Dysport is a neurotoxin injectable similar to Botox used to temporarily reduce wrinkles. It has a smaller protein structure allowing faster diffusion and onset. FDA approved since 2009.

**How it works:** Blocks acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction. Smaller molecular size allows faster onset and broader spread than Botox.

**Cost:** $3–$5 per unit (lower per-unit cost than Botox but requires 2.5–3x more units).

**Dysport vs Botox conversion:** 2.5–3:1 ratio (e.g., 50–75 Dysport units = 20–25 Botox units for frown lines). Total treatment cost is similar between products.

**Onset:** 24–48 hours (faster than Botox's 5–7 days). Duration: 3–4 months.

**Source:** [Dysport Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/dysport/)

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## Xeomin (IncobotulinumtoxinA)

Xeomin is a "naked" neurotoxin without complexing proteins, used to temporarily reduce wrinkles. The lack of accessory proteins may reduce the risk of antibody formation with repeated treatments. FDA approved since 2011.

**Cost:** $8–$12 per unit. 1:1 unit conversion with Botox.

**Key difference:** No complexing proteins — only pure botulinum toxin type A. Does not require refrigeration before reconstitution. Patients who develop resistance to Botox may respond to Xeomin.

**Duration:** 3–4 months, similar to Botox and Dysport.

**Source:** [Xeomin Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/xeomin/)

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## Neurotoxin Comparison

| Feature | Botox | Dysport | Xeomin |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per unit | $10–$15 | $3–$5 | $8–$12 |
| Units for frown lines | 20–25 | 50–75 | 20–25 |
| Total cost (frown lines) | $200–$375 | $150–$375 | $160–$300 |
| Onset | 5–7 days | 24–48 hours | 5–7 days |
| Duration | 3–4 months | 3–4 months | 3–4 months |
| FDA approved | 2002 | 2009 | 2011 |
| Complexing proteins | Yes | Yes | No ("naked") |
| Conversion ratio | 1x | 2.5–3x | 1x |

---

## Dermal Fillers (Hyaluronic Acid)

Injectable gel substances that restore volume, smooth lines, and enhance facial contours. Over 3.4 million filler treatments are performed annually in the US. Major types include hyaluronic acid (HA), calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).

**How it works:** HA fillers attract and bind water molecules to create volume. CaHA and PLLA stimulate collagen production. HA fillers are reversible with hyaluronidase enzyme.

**Cost:** $500–$1,200 per syringe (1 mL standard).

| Treatment Area | Syringes Needed | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Lips | 1 syringe | $500–$1,200 |
| Cheeks | 2–3 syringes | $1,200–$3,600 |
| Jawline | 3–4 syringes | $1,500–$4,800 |
| Tear troughs (under-eye) | 1.5–2 syringes | $900–$2,400 |
| Nasolabial folds | 1–2 syringes | $500–$2,400 |

**Duration by filler type:** HA fillers 6–18 months, CaHA (Radiesse) 12–18 months, PLLA (Sculptra) 2–5 years, PMMA (Bellafill) permanent.

**Popular HA filler brands:** Juvederm (Voluma, Volbella, Vollure, Ultra), Restylane (Lyft, Kysse, Defyne, Contour), RHA Collection (RHA 2, 3, 4), Revanesse Versa.

**Source:** [Dermal Fillers Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/dermal-fillers/)

---

## Lip Fillers

Hyaluronic acid-based injectable fillers for lip volume, shape, and definition. The most popular facial filler treatment.

**Cost:** $500–$1,500 per syringe. Typical first treatment: 0.5–1 mL.

**Duration:** 6–18 months (lips metabolize filler faster than other areas).

**Popular lip fillers:** Juvederm Ultra XC, Restylane Kysse, RHA 2.

**Techniques:** Classic lip augmentation, Russian lips technique, lip border definition, cupid's bow enhancement.

**Reversibility:** Can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if needed.

**Source:** [Lip Fillers Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/lip-fillers/)

---

## Lip Filler vs Lip Flip Comparison

| Feature | Lip Filler | Lip Flip (Botox) |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $500–$1,500 | $100–$300 |
| Duration | 6–12 months | 2–4 months |
| Mechanism | HA adds volume | 4–6 units Botox relaxes orbicularis oris |
| Effect | Fuller, more voluminous lips | Subtle upper lip eversion |
| Volume added | Yes | No |
| Best for | Thin lips, asymmetry, volume loss | Gummy smile, subtle enhancement |
| Lips treated | Both upper and lower | Upper lip only |
| Combinable | Yes — can combine both techniques | Yes |

**Source:** [Lip Filler vs Lip Flip](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/lip-filler-vs-lip-flip/)

---

## Sculptra (Poly-L-Lactic Acid)

Sculptra is a PLLA biostimulator that gradually restores facial volume by stimulating collagen production over 4–6 months. FDA approved since 2004. Longest-lasting non-permanent filler option.

**How it works:** PLLA microparticles are injected deep into skin where they stimulate fibroblasts to produce new collagen. Results develop gradually and naturally.

**Cost:** $700–$1,200 per vial. Most patients need 2–3 treatment sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart.

**Duration:** 2–5 years (significantly longer than HA fillers).

**5-5-5 rule:** Massage the treated area 5 minutes, 5 times per day, for 5 days after treatment.

**Source:** [Sculptra Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/sculptra/)

---

## Radiesse (Calcium Hydroxylapatite)

Radiesse is a CaHA filler providing immediate volume correction plus long-term collagen stimulation.

**How it works:** Dual-action mechanism — CaHA microspheres suspended in gel provide immediate volume, then create a scaffold for natural collagen production over 3–6 months.

**Cost:** $650–$850 per syringe (1.5 mL — larger than the standard 1 mL filler syringe).

**Duration:** 12–18 months for volume correction. Can be hyperdiluted for skin quality improvement.

**Key difference from HA fillers:** Cannot be dissolved with hyaluronidase. Better value per mL due to larger syringe size. FDA approved for hands and facial wrinkles.

**Sculptra vs Radiesse:** Sculptra lasts longer (2–5 years vs 12–18 months) but requires multiple sessions. Radiesse provides both immediate volume and collagen stimulation in one treatment.

**Source:** [Radiesse Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/radiesse/)

---

## PDO Thread Lifts

PDO (polydioxanone) thread lifts use absorbable surgical sutures inserted under the skin to lift sagging tissue and stimulate collagen production without surgery.

**How it works:** Threads are inserted subdermally to mechanically lift tissue, then dissolve over 6–9 months while stimulating new collagen formation that maintains lifting effects.

**Cost:** $1,500–$4,500 per treatment depending on area and thread count.

**Thread types:** Smooth (collagen stimulation only), Screw (volume), Barbed (lifting), Mesh (scaffolding). Typical treatment uses 4–12 barbed threads for lifting.

**Duration:** 12–18 months. Results visible immediately with continued improvement over 3–6 months.

**PDO threads vs facelift surgery:** Threads cost $1,500–$4,500 vs $5,000–$15,000 for surgery. Minimal downtime (3–5 days) vs 1–2+ weeks. Shorter duration (12–18 months vs 10+ years). Less invasive but less dramatic results.

**Source:** [PDO Threads Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/pdo-threads/)

---

## PRP & PRF Treatments

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) are regenerative treatments using concentrated growth factors from the patient's own blood. Applications include the vampire facial, hair loss treatment, and under-eye rejuvenation.

**How it works:** Blood is drawn and centrifuged to concentrate platelets containing growth factors. PRP is liquid; PRF forms a fibrin matrix releasing growth factors more slowly.

**Cost:** $500–$1,500 for facial treatments; $1,500–$5,000 for hair restoration (multiple sessions).

**Protocol:** 3–4 initial treatments spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Maintenance every 6–12 months.

**Duration:** 6–12 months for skin; 12–18 months for hair restoration.

**PRP vs PRF:** PRF is the newer generation. Contains 10x more platelets than whole blood. Provides slower, more sustained release of growth factors. No anticoagulant required.

**Source:** [PRP & PRF Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/prp-prf/)

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## Exosome Therapy

Exosome therapy uses extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells for skin rejuvenation and hair restoration.

**How it works:** Exosomes (30–150 nanometers) deliver regenerative signals to cells, promoting collagen production, reducing inflammation, and enhancing tissue repair. Cell-free — contains no stem cells in the final product.

**Cost:** $500–$1,500 for facial treatments; $1,500–$5,000 for hair restoration.

**Duration:** 6–12 months for skin; 12–18 months for hair.

**Important note:** Exosome therapy is NOT FDA approved for cosmetic use. Considered research/experimental.

**Exosomes vs PRP:** More concentrated growth factors. Cell-free unlike stem cell therapy. Potentially more potent but significantly more expensive and less regulatory clarity.

**Source:** [Exosomes Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/exosomes/)

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## Liquid Rhinoplasty (Non-Surgical Nose Job)

Non-surgical nose reshaping using dermal fillers to camouflage bumps, lift the tip, straighten the bridge, or improve symmetry without surgery.

**How it works:** Strategic placement of HA fillers (typically Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, or RHA 4) to add volume and reshape nasal contours. Procedure takes 15–30 minutes.

**Cost:** $600–$2,500 per session. Typical amount: 0.5–2 syringes.

**Duration:** 9–18 months (nasal filler lasts longer than other facial areas due to less movement).

**Liquid rhinoplasty vs surgical rhinoplasty:**

| Feature | Liquid Rhinoplasty | Surgical Rhinoplasty |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $600–$2,500 | $5,000–$15,000 |
| Downtime | None | 1–2+ weeks |
| Duration | 9–18 months | Permanent |
| Reversible | Yes (hyaluronidase) | No |
| Can reduce size | No | Yes |
| Can fix breathing | No | Yes |
| Can narrow nose | No | Yes |
| Procedure time | 15–30 minutes | 1–3 hours |

**Limitations:** Cannot reduce nose size, narrow a wide nose, or fix functional breathing issues.

**Source:** [Liquid Rhinoplasty Guide](https://aesthetic.education/treatments/liquid-rhinoplasty/)

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## How to Become an Aesthetic Nurse

### Requirements
1. Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
2. Pass the NCLEX-RN exam
3. 1–2 years of clinical nursing experience
4. Specialized aesthetic injectable training (Botox, dermal fillers)
5. CANS certification (Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist) — recommended but not legally required

### Aesthetic Nurse Salary

**National averages by role:**

| Role | Salary Range | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Aesthetic RN | $75,000–$130,000 | $95,000 |
| Nurse Injector | $85,000–$150,000+ | $108,000 |
| Aesthetic NP (Employee) | $110,000–$180,000 | $140,000 |
| Aesthetic NP (Practice Owner) | $150,000–$300,000+ | $200,000+ |

**By experience level (RN / NP):**

| Experience | Aesthetic RN | Aesthetic NP |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (0–2 years) | $65,000–$80,000 | $95,000–$115,000 |
| Mid-career (3–5 years) | $85,000–$110,000 | $120,000–$150,000 |
| Experienced (5–10 years) | $100,000–$130,000 | $140,000–$180,000 |
| Expert/KOL (10+ years) | $120,000–$160,000+ | $160,000–$250,000+ |

**Top-paying states:**

| State | Average Range |
|---|---|
| California | $90,000–$145,000 |
| New York | $88,000–$140,000 |
| Massachusetts | $85,000–$130,000 |
| Washington | $82,000–$125,000 |
| New Jersey | $82,000–$125,000 |
| Nevada | $80,000–$125,000 |
| Colorado | $80,000–$120,000 |
| Texas | $75,000–$120,000 |
| Florida | $72,000–$115,000 |

**Total compensation includes:** Base salary + commission (10–25% of revenue, adding $35,000–$80,000+), tips ($15,000–$30,000/year), complimentary treatments ($5,000–$15,000+ value), CE stipend ($2,000–$5,000/year), and performance bonuses ($5,000–$25,000/year).

**Compared to hospital nursing:** Aesthetic nurses earn 15–25% more in base salary, and 40–60% more in total compensation including commission and bonuses. Hospital RN average: $80,000–$90,000.

**Procedures performed:** Botox and neurotoxin injections, dermal filler injections, PRP/PRF treatments, chemical peels, microneedling, laser treatments, sclerotherapy, PDO thread lifts, body contouring consultations.

**Scope of practice:** Varies by state. NPs generally have more autonomy than RNs. Some states allow RNs to inject independently under standing orders; others require direct physician oversight.

**Career outlook:** Global medical aesthetics market projected to reach $25+ billion by 2028. Fastest-growing nursing specialty, growing 10–15% annually.

**Source:** [Aesthetic Nurse Career Guide](https://aesthetic.education/careers/aesthetic-nurse/)

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## How to Become a Medical Esthetician

### What Medical Estheticians Do
Licensed skincare specialists working in medical settings under physician supervision. Focus on clinical-grade treatments for acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, rosacea, and aging skin.

### Requirements
1. Complete an accredited esthetician program (600–1,500 hours depending on state)
2. Pass state licensing exam (written + practical)
3. Obtain state esthetician license
4. Complete additional medical aesthetics training

**State training hour requirements:** California 600 hours, New York 600 hours, Texas 750 hours, Illinois 750 hours, Georgia 1,000 hours, Nevada 900 hours, Florida 260 hours (Facial Specialist).

**Program costs:** Community college $3,000–$8,000 (9–12 months), private esthetics school $6,000–$15,000 (6–12 months), cosmetology school $10,000–$20,000 (12–18 months).

**Timeline:** 1–2 years total to become a medical esthetician.

### Medical Esthetician Salary

| Experience Level | Medical Esthetician | Traditional Spa Esthetician |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (0–2 years) | $38,000–$50,000 | $28,000–$38,000 |
| Mid-career (3–5 years) | $50,000–$68,000 | $38,000–$48,000 |
| Experienced (5–10 years) | $65,000–$85,000 | $45,000–$55,000 |
| Expert/Lead (10+ years) | $80,000–$100,000+ | $50,000–$65,000 |

**Overall:** Medical estheticians earn $45,000–$85,000+ (avg $62,000). Traditional estheticians earn $32,000–$55,000 (avg $42,000). Medical estheticians earn 30–50% more.

### Scope of Practice
**Can perform:** Medical-grade chemical peels, microneedling (varies by state), microdermabrasion, dermaplaning, LED light therapy, laser hair removal (in some states), IPL treatments, HydraFacials.

**Cannot perform:** Botox or neurotoxin injections, dermal filler injections, PRP/PRF treatments, prescribe medications. These require medical licensure (MD, DO, NP, PA, or RN with delegation).

**Career outlook:** 14% job growth projected through 2032 (BLS). Over 10,000 medical spas in the U.S. Non-surgical procedures up 44% since 2019.

**Source:** [Medical Esthetician Career Guide](https://aesthetic.education/careers/medical-esthetician/)

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## Esthetician vs Aesthetician

Both terms refer to licensed skincare professionals. "Esthetician" is the more common American English spelling. "Aesthetician" often implies medical or clinical-grade training. The terms are used interchangeably, though "aesthetician" is increasingly associated with medical spa and clinical settings.

**Source:** [Esthetician vs Aesthetician](https://aesthetic.education/blogs/esthetician-vs-aesthetician/)

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## Training Courses Offered

All courses include hands-on training with live patient injections under direct MD supervision. Small groups of 6 or fewer. CME/CE credits available.

| Course | Description | Link |
|---|---|---|
| Botox & Neurotoxins | Comprehensive Botox certification with live patient training | [Details](https://aesthetic.education/courses/botox-training) |
| Dermal Fillers | Hands-on dermal filler injection certification | [Details](https://aesthetic.education/courses/dermal-filler-training) |
| PDO Thread Lifts | Thread lift certification course | [Details](https://aesthetic.education/courses/pdo-thread-lift-training) |
| Sclerotherapy | Spider vein treatment certification | [Details](https://aesthetic.education/courses/sclerotherapy-training) |
| Aesthetic Workshops | Multi-procedure aesthetic training | [Details](https://aesthetic.education/courses/aesthetic-workshops) |

**Who can attend:** Licensed healthcare professionals — physicians (MD/DO), nurse practitioners (NP), physician assistants (PA), registered nurses (RN) with delegation, and dentists (DDS/DMD).

**Course format:** Online didactic component (streaming video + post-test) followed by in-person hands-on training with live patients.

**Cursos en Espanol:** Toxina Botulinica, Rellenos Dermicos, Consulta Ganadora, Dermatologia.

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## Training Locations

Hands-on aesthetic training available in 15+ U.S. cities:

- [New York & New Jersey](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/new-york)
- [California (LA, San Diego, San Francisco, Irvine)](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/los-angeles)
- [Chicago, IL](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/chicago)
- [Texas (Houston, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio)](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/houston)
- [Florida (Miami, Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale)](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/miami)
- [Boston, MA](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/boston)
- [Las Vegas, NV](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/las-vegas)
- [Atlanta, GA](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/atlanta)
- [Seattle, WA](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/seattle)
- [Denver, CO](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/denver)
- [Philadelphia, PA](https://aesthetic.education/aesthetic-training/philadelphia)

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## Key Pages

- [Homepage](https://aesthetic.education/)
- [Events Calendar](https://aesthetic.education/events-calendar)
- [Pricing](https://aesthetic.education/pricing)
- [Contact](https://aesthetic.education/contact)
- [Blog](https://aesthetic.education/blogs)

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## About

Aesthetic Education has over 25 years of experience training healthcare professionals in aesthetic medicine. Over 50,000 medical professionals have completed our training programs. All courses are CME-accredited with hands-on live patient training in small groups of 6 or fewer, taught by MD instructors.