Professional and Passionate: An Interview with Nurse Aestheticians and Business Owners Gessica and Hong
In a recent conversation with dedicated nursing professionals Gessica and Hong, we delved into their career journeys and experiences engaging in both business ownership and medical aesthetics.
The Call to Nursing
Both Hong and Gessica articulated a profound passion for helping others as the core motivation behind their decision to pursue nursing. They view nursing not just as a career but as a calling that demands dedication, sacrifice, and a deep commitment to patient care.
Diverse Experiences in Nursing Specialties
Both Hong and Gessica’s careers have spanned multiple areas within nursing, showcasing a wealth of experience and knowledge. Gessica has worked in many areas including cardiology and women's health, while Hong has dedicated significant time to medicine, surgery and cardiac intensive care before transitioning to include medical aesthetics. Their varied experiences demonstrate that skills acquired in one area can be invaluable in another. The duo's shared background from nursing school to cardiac care highlights their collaborative approach to their nursing partnership, where their shared experiences foster deeper connections both between them as business partners and advancing their business today.
Rewarding Moments in Nursing
When reflecting on their most rewarding practice experiences, both nurses pointed to memories of life-saving interventions in critical care settings. They described the profound impact of performing CPR and successfully reviving patients, considering it one of the most gratifying aspects of their work. This shared sentiment highlights the deep emotional connections nurses form with their patients and the lasting influence these experiences have on their careers. However, they also acknowledged that the emotional weight of such moments can linger, affecting them long after the event has passed.
Recognizing the stress and emotional toll inherent in nursing, Hong and Gessica stress the importance of self-care. They advocate for both the use of humour and a robust support system among peers as essential coping mechanisms. Physical fitness also plays a significant role in their self-care routines, with both sharing that maintaining their physical health is crucial for their overall well-being. Their insights highlight the need for nurses to acknowledge their limits and set boundaries, reinforcing that personal well-being is key to providing optimal patient care.
The strong partnership between Gessica and Hong has significantly contributed to their success. They emphasize the value of friendship and mutual understanding of the desired high-standards they strive for in their professional relationship, suggesting that their mutual support in both personal and business matters has been instrumental in their achievements.
Their expansion from more traditional nursing roles to medical aesthetics was driven by a passion for both beauty and science. Gessica shared that her personal and family background in the beauty industry was a catalyst for her initial interest in aesthetics and injections. The duo highlighted the importance of continuous learning and professional development in this evolving field, stressing that ongoing education is vital for success. They emphasized the necessity of comprehensive training to ensure safety and efficacy in aesthetic procedures.
For new graduates aspiring to enter the aesthetics field, Hong and Gessica stressed the importance of a solid foundation in both clinical skills and business acumen. They noted that nursing school rarely covers the business side of healthcare, making it essential for aspiring practitioners to seek additional courses in management, accounting, and marketing. Their partnership model—leveraging each other’s strengths—serves as one example of how collaboration can lead to success.
Staying Informed in Aesthetic Practice
A critical component of delivering exceptional aesthetic care is staying abreast of the latest advancements in the field. As the field of aesthetic nursing rapidly evolves, particularly in regions like Ontario, nurses are navigating this dynamic landscape to provide high-quality care. Gessica and Hong highlighted their personal and professional commitment to ongoing education, each participating in one to two new courses every year. They utilize a blend of resources, including peer-reviewed articles shared by their medical director, and professional networks to stay abreast of trends and evidence. This multi-faceted approach not only enhances their knowledge but also fosters connections with respected figures in the aesthetic community.
The presence of a medical director within their practice serves as a crucial support system. With over 15 years of experience, the medical director provides guidance and expertise that the nurses frequently seek. This mentorship is vital for navigating the complexities of aesthetic procedures and ensuring patient safety.
As aesthetic nursing gains recognition from regulatory bodies, there is a growing movement toward establishing increased standardization. The nurses expressed optimism regarding the future of the industry, anticipating that regulations will formalize practices and enhance the overall quality of care. Their proactive approach to developing internal policies reflects a commitment to not only meet but exceed forthcoming standards.
Despite this optimistic outlook, current regulations can lead to variances in practice. The partners noted the ease of entering the field—where one can take a single course and then offer injections—poses risks for both practitioners and patients. They stressed the importance of comprehensive training and ongoing education to address anticipated and potential complications that may arise during aesthetic procedures. Their experience has shown that inadequately trained practitioners may struggle to manage these challenges, underscoring the necessity of expertise and a strong nursing foundation.
Aesthetics is not solely about the procedures; it is deeply rooted in the relationships nurses build with their clients. The nurses shared a poignant experience with a patient who sought treatments not only for aesthetic reasons but also as a means of coping with personal loss. They highlight the emotional dimensions of aesthetic nursing, where practitioners often find themselves in quasi-counseling roles, helping clients navigate issues related to self-esteem and body image. The fulfillment derived from positively impacting patients' lives emerged as a significant motivator for the nurses, demonstrating the profound connection between aesthetics and mental well-being.
For those considering a career in aesthetic nursing, Jessica and Hung outlined critical first steps, emphasizing the necessity of education and realistic expectations. They cautioned against entering the field solely for immediate financial gain, as building a successful practice requires time, dedication, and resilience. Understanding one’s worth and establishing boundaries with clients were also highlighted as essential components of a thriving practice.
The journey of aesthetic nurses reflects a blend of clinical expertise, ongoing education, and a deep commitment to patient care. Gessica and Hong’s insights underscore the importance of mentorship, professional and regulatory standards, and the emotional dimensions of aesthetic practice. As the field continues to evolve, these dedicated practitioners are not only shaping their paths but also enhancing the reputation and integrity of aesthetic nursing as a whole. Through their stories, it is clear that aesthetic nursing is not merely a profession; it is an opportunity to empower individuals and foster confidence in their appearance.
About the Contributors
Gessica Hulse, BScN, RN and Hong Huynh, BScN, RN, are the Co-owners of BCI Clinic, Ottawa’s premier medical aesthetics and skincare provider. BCI Clinic has procedures ranging from pain management and healing aid to fat reduction and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) Therapy. Their care goes beyond medical purposes and also provides skin treatments and procedures that are made to enhance your natural beauty. BCI Clinic is a judge-free space run by two passionate RNs.
After more than twenty years of national leadership in supporting nursing students and newly graduated nurses through professional role transition, Nursing the Future (NTF) is concluding its current operational chapter.
Since 2004, NTF has served as a vital bridge for new nurses, educators, and leaders navigating the vulnerable early months of practice. Through evidence-based programming, national partnerships, and a commitment to building a safe “cul-de-sac” for early-career nurses, NTF has supported thousands across Canada in cultivating connection, confidence, and professional identity.
We extend deep gratitude to our partners, including the Canadian Nurses Foundation, the Canadian Nurses Association, the Canadian Nursing Students Association, provincial ministries, healthcare institutions, and countless contributors whose belief in transition-to-practice support made this work possible.
While formal operations conclude, the scholarship, curriculum, intellectual property, and program infrastructure developed over two decades remain intact and available for strategic partnership and collaboration. For further dialogue on potential collaborations, please contact Dr. Duchscher directly: newgraduates@nursingthefuture.ca
We welcome conversations with ministries, health regions, academic institutions, and professional associations interested in advancing initiatives such as:
The mission of healthy and supported professional role transition remains urgent. The work continues, sustained through scholarship, partnership, and shared commitment to the future of Canadian nursing.
With enduring gratitude,
Dr. Judy Duchscher - Founder & CEO, Nursing the Future
Kathryn Corneau - Program Director, Nursing the Future
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