OBJECTIVES: to reflect on aromatherapy in the specialty of aesthetic nursing. METHODS: a theoretical essay of a reflective nature, with integrative and complementary health as a conceptual framework, supported by both international and national literature, with analysis of previous and current professional legislation. DEVELOPMENT: presented in two topics that are interconnected and discuss the points of convergence between the topics under analysis: the increased demand for products of natural origin and for aesthetic procedures that are less invasive point to the dialogue, applicability and potential of aromatherapy in aesthetic nursing. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: recent legislation on aesthetic nursing in Brazil indicates the constant improvement of this specialty, which reinforces the need for work that enables the transfer of knowledge for safe and effective practice.