Aesthetics, what exactly does it mean?

Aesthetics, what does it actually mean?

I, along with many other Nurses focusing on cosmetic medicine refer to ourselves as aesthetic practitioners.  So what does Aesthetic mean? and how is it different to cosmetic?

Aesthetic Defined as; a branch of philosophy concerned with the nature and appreciation of art, beauty and good taste. It has also been defined as "critical reflection on art, culture and nature". The word "aesthetics" derives from the Greek "aisthetikos", meaning "of sense perception”….being perceptive is definitely a large aspect of my job.  It is alternatively defined as; relating to the science of aesthetics; concerned with the study of the mind and emotions in relation to the sense of beauty.  While cosmetics is defined as; treatments intended to enhance or change ones appearance.  I prefer the term aesthetic over cosmetic as it is influenced by science, art and nature.

While the main responsibility of an aesthetic nurse is reliant on the administration of medications or treatments.  Being successful in this field additionally requires an “eye for detail or an “aesthetic eye”. 

An aesthetic eye comes naturally to an extent but there is so much to be understood about the science of beauty and its history. Processing attractiveness can happen in a matter of milliseconds; the brain analyses contours, shapes, features, and skin quality while scanning someones face.

While many clients request lines and lips to be filled, a good aesthetician will know how attractiveness is processed in the brain. This will deliver a far more effective solution to improving the look of entire composition of the face.

I love my job as my understanding of the science behind both the human body and medications can be utilised into the fashion and beauty industry.  

Next week I'll be talking about the features of an aesthetically pleasing face.