raising the standard in aesthetic care: what CANS certification means for patients
At Kalon, exceptional aesthetic care begins with education, integrity, and accountability. Advanced training and nationally recognized certification are foundational to how we prioritize patient safety, deliver exceptional outcomes, and build lasting trust.
One credential that reflects this level of education and accountability is the Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) certification — the highest certification available in aesthetic nursing. Understanding what this credential represents can help patients make more informed decisions about their care.
What Is a Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS)?
The Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist (CANS) credential is awarded to aesthetic nurses who demonstrate advanced knowledge, extensive clinical experience, and a strong commitment to evidence-based practice in aesthetic medicine.
To qualify for the CANS exam, providers must meet strict eligibility requirements, including a minimum number of years and hours practicing in aesthetics. Certification is earned only after passing a comprehensive national examination and must be maintained through continued education to ensure ongoing clinical excellence.
Why Certification Matters in Aesthetic Medicine
Aesthetic medicine is a rapidly evolving field, and levels of training and certification can vary. That’s why nationally recognized credentials and rigorous education are so important in ensuring clinical expertise, safety, and consistent outcomes.
The CANS certification helps establish a higher standard. It signifies that a provider has met nationally recognized benchmarks for education, experience, and patient safety — offering patients greater confidence in the care they receive.
A Rare and Meaningful Distinction
There are currently just over 500 Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialists nationwide. Chelsey Ahlers, FNP-BC, is the only CANS-certified provider in the state of South Dakota, with very few providers holding this credential in surrounding states.
This distinction reflects a strong commitment to continued learning, accountability, and excellence in aesthetic nursing — values that closely align with Kalon’s approach to patient care.
What This Means for Kalon Patients
For patients, advanced certification means:
- Thoughtful, individualized treatment planning
- A strong emphasis on safety and evidence-based care
- Natural-looking results guided by both science and artistry
- Confidence in the provider overseeing aesthetic treatments
At Kalon, we believe patients deserve transparency, education, and care that meets the highest standards — not simply what is common or convenient.
A Commitment to Excellence
Chelsey’s CANS certification reinforces Kalon’s ongoing commitment to excellence in aesthetic care. As the field continues to evolve, we remain focused on providing patients with care rooted in education, integrity, and long-term well-being.
Learn more about our providers or aesthetic services at Kalon.
