Photo Credit: Courtesy of Rachel DukeRachel M. Duke, NP, CANS, started her career of caring for patients in 1997 as a Registered Nurse. She worked in the Emergency Department and as an Organ Transplant Coordinator through 2004 before deciding to become a Nurse Practitioner. Through those experiences, she discovered a love for aesthetics and shifted her focus to the industry in 2005. In 2013, Rachel became Central Virginia’s first Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist. Rachel has been named one of America’s Top 100 Injectors since 2018, and Real Self tapped her as one of its Top 25 Injectors. 

Learn more about aesthetic injector expert Rachel Duke in this introductory Q & A.

What is your greatest achievement?

Starting my own practice to deliver an optimal experience for my patients. It was a leap of faith to work on business plans during the pandemic, and I’m so grateful to everyone who has put their trust in my services.

What is the future of your field?

We’ll see continued advances in products and more research on advanced techniques for injectables. This will Include new hyaluronic acid fillers, biostimulators, and longer-acting neurotoxins. The wallet share of the injectables business will continue to grow as a larger percentage of the overall aesthetics industry.

What is the biggest misconception about your field?

From a nursing perspective, the aesthetic industry seems glamorous on the outside as opposed to a more traditional nursing role in a hospital or medical practice. While both require a lot of work, dedication, and drive to be the leader in your field, the aesthetics business is far more competitive. You must be prepared to eat, sleep and breathe it every day.

What are your most requested procedures?

Botox and midface augmentation.

What are you best known for?

Patients say they come to my new injectables boutique because they appreciate the personal, patient-centered experience. They want someone who listens and provides natural results. I offer realistic assessments using advanced education and help patients understand what is possible with injectables. I’ve also made lifelong learning a priority and enjoy training others.

What is your most memorable patient reaction?

Without a doubt, it’s seeing the increased confidence in patients. A patient might describe something about themselves they find undesirable, or perhaps feel great but think they look tired. After I provide treatment, it’s rewarding to see their faces glow. They exude a higher level of confidence in themselves. Isn’t that want we all want!

What sets your practice apart?

That it’s truly patient-centered. Patients have direct contact with me and have autonomy with scheduling their appointments online. The process is completely paperless. They don’t have to deal with anyone in the middle at any point in the process. I like to be accessible and available.

What do you love most about your profession?

I love that the industry is ever-changing. There’s no chance you’ll get bored. To be successful you must stay on top of trends, good and bad, and maintain education. Also, our patients are ever-changing. They represent more of a diverse population, along with not only the aging population but also how they seek treatment sooner.

What new services are you excited to offer?

I’ll be adding thread lifts and providing more retail skincare.