News

Talk #Aesthetics

Follow us on Twitter @aestheticsgroup and Instagram @aestheticsjournaluk

#Tweakment

@drarielhaus Thank you @drritarakus_ and @alicehartdavis for inviting the @drarielhaus team to be a part of the #TweakmentsClinic at St John’s Hyde Park last night – it was a fantastic event and opportunity to meet fellow practitioners and educate patients on the different treatment options we provide.

#Training

@dr_marcus_mehta Fantastic day at our London facial aesthetics training school meeting and presenting to a panel of journalists, influencers and editors! We presented all about injectables and 2020 trends to look out for! #aesthetics

#Safety

@marcpacifico @thebaaps council meeting in beautiful #cheltenham. Privileged to be surrounded by hard-working colleagues of integrity who all give up their time to contribute to the specialty #patientsafety & #patienteducation

#Speakers

@sinclair_uk What a great day at our North Regional Meeting in Manchester hosted by @joannesinclairpharma Thank you to all of our speakers @drsaleenazimri @dr_mj_smileworks @dr.raj.thethi @patriciagoodwin4950 for your fantastic presentations and demonstrations today!

#Webinar

@leewalker_academy Thank you for everybody who tuned in for todays impromptu webinar. Few behind the scenes shots with @drcetto. Huge thanks to @teoxanelabuk for hard work and pulling it together in less than 24 hours!!! #teoxanelaboratories #teoxaneapproach

Webinar

AestheticSource to hold AlphaRet peeling webinar

Award-winning product distributor AestheticSource will share an online masterclass on the new Skinbetter Science AlphaRet Professional Peel System and sunbetter Tone Smart SPF 50 on April 28. Hosted on the Aesthetics journal website from 6pm, the interactive session will be led by nurse prescriber Anna Baker and Dr Amiee Vyas, who will introduce the technology and detail the commercial benefits of the products. The pair will also showcase a video of the treatment in action, describing how it should be used and the results that can be achieved. According to AestheticSource, the innovative new peel combines the power of the AlphaRet technology with a proprietary triple acid blend formula, which is designed to treat a broad range of patients and skin types. The company adds that the Tone Smart SPF 50 is a 100% mineral-active sun protection in a tone-adapting compact that provides a hint of colour upon application. Vikki Baker, marketing manager at AestheticSource, said, “We are delighted to be able to share two of the latest Skinbetter Science brand innovations in a remote learning experience, led by Dr Amiee Vyas and Anna Baker. AestheticSource is committed to supporting businesses and continuing education via alternative solutions in the current climate.” Dr Amiee Vyas commented, “I’m very excited to be presenting on the webinar launch of the AlphaRet Professional Peel System and Sunbetter. I think these peels have the potential to change the way we approach patient treatment plans in practice and that the session covering technologies, clinical approaches and profitability is going to be very useful for attendees.” Details on how to join this webinar will be shared via email and social media in the next couple of weeks. Please note the agenda is subject to change or be postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.

LED

Battery-powered Celluma devices released

Light emitting diode (LED) device manufacturer BioPhotas has introduced the Celluma iSeries to the Celluma portfolio of light therapy devices. The series offers battery-powered options of the company’s most popular models, the Celluma PRO and the Celluma LITE. BioPhotas will also be offering to upgrade any previously sold Celluma devices with the battery-powered option, allowing current owners to get the latest technology features. President and CEO of BioPhotas, Patrick Johnson said, “We are excited to introduce the Celluma iSeries, the first battery-powered LED ‘panel’ device that is FDA-cleared and medically CE-marked for treating a variety of skin, muscle and joint conditions. Now the convenience and efficacy of the Celluma series is enhanced so it can be used anywhere and anytime. Advances in battery technology have also allowed us to provide multiple Celluma treatment cycles without impeding versatility or portability.”

Awards

Aesthetics Awards shortlisted for prestigious industry awards ceremony

The Aesthetics Awards ceremony has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Awards Event by a Publisher category at the Awards Awards. The Awards Awards is an event that celebrates the very best of the awards industry and is dedicated to recognising those who normally work behind the scenes. The category for Best Awards Event by a Publisher is judged on innovation, success and creativity of the event, plus evidence of optimal leverage of the link between the publication and the awards brand. Chloé Gronow, editor and content manager at Aesthetics Media, part of Easyfairs, the company behind the Aesthetics Awards and Aesthetics journal, said, “This is the perfect way to commend the collaboration between our awards ceremony and the journal, which are both valued by so many in the medical aesthetics specialty. We work hard to interlink the two, alongside our conferences and exhibitions ACE and CCR, to offer the aesthetic community everything they need to learn, network and celebrate their successes in this ever-changing specialty.” She continued, “Entering the Awards is also a chance for us to reflect on our own work and aspire to make the Aesthetics Awards even better year on year. We already have some exciting plans for the 2020 ceremony in December, so look out for them in our May issue when entry opens!” Practitioners, companies and products can all enter the Aesthetics Awards from May 1. The ceremony will take place in London in December.

Aftercare

New disinfectant available through Healthxchange

Aesthetic supplier Healthxchange Pharmacy is now the exclusive UK distributor for aftercare treatments Thoclor GF1 and GF2, manufactured by biotechnology company Thoclor Labs. Thorclor explains that the GF1 is an in-clinic aftercare treatment designed to support the skin’s healing process, prevent infection, control inflammation, reduce the risk of scarring and shorten recovery time. The company states that it can be used for treatments that compromise the outermost layer of the skin, including microneedling, dermaplaning, peels, fillers, laser, waxing and permanent makeup. The Thoclor GF2 Skin Rejuvenation is an additional treatment that patients can take home and add to their skincare routine. It is specifically designed to combat inflammageing. Dr John Curran, chairman of Healthxchange Group, commented, “Most cosmetic medical procedures carry a risk of infection and often prolonged inflammation. Thoclor, a novel hypochlorous acid-based system, has the dual quality of effectively eradicating pathogens on the skin, protecting against post-procedure infection and has powerful anti-inflammatory effects; quickly reducing redness.”

Vital Statistics

321 million new people joined social media in 2019, which made a total of 3.8 billion social media users at the start of 2020, an increase of 9% (Hootsuite, 2020)

By 2021, it is estimated that more than half of companies will use LinkedIn for marketing (emarketer.com, 2020)

It is estimated that CBD skincare could account for around 10% of global skin care sales within the next 5-10 years (Prohibition Partners, 2020)

32% of people said that they have aesthetic procedures to feel more confi dent and 24% said it was to look

more attractive

(The Private Clinic, 2020)

Over the last four years, the global male aesthetics market size has maintained an annual growth of

5.45%

(Statista, 2020)

64% of consumers said they look for products with recyclable

packaging

(SOIL association, 2020)

Distribution

AestheticSource becomes new Oxygenetix distributor

Aesthetic distributor AestheticSource is now the exclusive UK supplier of US skincare and foundation brand Oxygenetix. Oxygenetix is a post-procedural foundation, designed for use after a variety of skin treatments, such as laser hair removal, chemical peels, facial surgery and acne treatments. The foundation contains an oxygen-enriched formula that aims to increase the body’s cell production of collagen and elastin which, the company claims, provides a quicker healing process. Lorna McDonnell Bowes, co-founder and CEO of AestheticSource, commented, “We are thrilled to be introducing Oxygenetix to our portfolio of brands. We’re looking forward to growing the brand’s clinic base and providing the strong support it deserves to expand in the aesthetic arena, working with existing and new customers as we further develop this excellent brand.”

Skin

Study indicates rise in allergies to natural skincare ingredient

A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology has indicated that allergies to propolis, an ingredient found in many natural skin products, has more than doubled since 2007. Propolis is a mixture that honeybees produce by mixing saliva, beeswax and plant exudates, and it can be found in a range of cosmetics such as shampoos, conditioners, lipsticks, lip balms, lotions and toothpastes. The analysis of 125,436 people took place between 2007 and 2018 across Germany, Austria and Switzerland, and gathered data using patch tests. Between 2010 and 2018, the study found an increase of 68% in positive allergy testing to propolis. Professor Wolfgang Uter, lead author of the study, said, “The increase in allergy to propolis that we have observed certainly warrants targeted investigation of what is driving sensitisation. At present, we do not know the full extent of its availability and how widely it is used. If the allergy trend continues, we will need to consider a reassessment of risk, and probably risk management such as a limit on the concentration of propolis allowed in products that are left on the skin.” Nina Goad, head of communications for The British Association of Dermatologists, commented, “Currently, propolis is not routinely included in patch testing in the UK, so the level of allergies here cannot be fully established. However, if trends in its use in the UK show an increase, a similar situation would be expected in our allergy clinics. While there may be benefits to natural skincare products, it shouldn’t be assumed that they are safer for the skin than their non-natural counterparts. If somebody experiences a skin reaction, a natural skin product shouldn’t be ruled out as the culprit.”

Industry

Miss Sherina Balaratnam becomes global ambassador for iS Clinical

Business

Healthxchange introduces new patient postal service

Skincare company iS Clinical has announced that surgeon, aesthetic practitioner and medical director of S-Thetics clinic, Miss Sherina Balaratnam is its first global brand ambassador. Miss Balaratnam commented, “I am hugely honoured that I am the first doctor globally, outside the US, to be invited to act as a brand ambassador for iS Clinical, at the personal invitation of the company founders. I have worked with cosmeceutical skincare for more than 10 years, with iS Clinical for more than four years, and have seen literally hundreds of our patients benefit from sometimes life-changing improvements in skin quality. I am immensely proud to be representing a company and products of such unwavering commitment to quality, purpose and ethics and look forward to exciting plans moving forward.” Aesthetic supplier Healthxchange Pharmacy has launched its Direct to Patient Service, which allows customers to send skincare and other topicals direct to a patient address rather than to a clinic. The company states that this is to reduce patients’ needs to meet in person whilst they are all social distancing, allowing them to continue with their skincare routine as well as helping clinics continue to offer services. Dr John Curran, chairman of the Healthxchange Group, commented, “At this time, it’s important to think of ways to do business remotely. Our new Direct to Patient Service will help our clients be proactive, keeping sales and revenue without having to pay for inventory or lose business elsewhere.”

Skincare

5 Squirrels releases new skin cleanser

Private label cosmeceutical supplier 5 Squirrels has introduced a new skin cleanser, Clear, to the Your Signature Range of own-brand products. The company explains that the cleansercontains three key active ingredients: 10% glycolic acid, 3% salicylic acid and 2% lactic acid. The glycolic acid aims to dissolve the bonds of thickened dead skin cells, causing exfoliation of the upper surface to reveal newer hydrated heathy skin. Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory properties, which work as a keratolytic by exfoliating the skin deep within the follicles. Lactic acid is specifically selected due to its ability to exfoliate the skin, lighten dark spots, and improve cell turnover, according to 5 Squirrels. Gary Conroy, co-founder of 5 Squirrels Ltd, said, “Over the past year our loyal clients challenged us to formulate a high strength product for oily skin. Yet again we have risen to the challenge. Clear has been tested in many clinics, producing fantastic results. Many of these clinics now have a waiting list to purchase this product so we’re delighted to be bringing it to market!”

Radiofrequency

InMode launches new device

Medical device manufacturer InMode has released Evolve, a non-invasive hands-free workstation designed to remodel skin, treat adipose tissue, and tone muscles using radiofrequency and electromagnetic pulses. The company explains that the device is founded on a threedimensional approach to tissue remodelling, deploying three proprietary technologies – Tite, Trim and Tone – allowing for customised treatment for a variety of body types. Shakil Lakhani, president of InMode North America, commented, “Our ability and success in bringing innovative solutions to the market are derived directly from listening carefully to our customers. The demand for an all-inclusive body solution in the non-invasive space is long overdue. We are proud to be the first company to offer the full range of treatments from non-invasive to minimally invasive in this segment. This exciting new technology is the latest addition to the InMode portfolio; as we continue to innovate, this ecosystem will only become more robust.”

Eyes

Medik8 releases new eye balm

UK skincare manufacturer Medik8 has launched a periorbital hydrating product called Illuminating Eye Balm. The formulation includes cucumber extract that aims to cool the area, red algae extract to regulate osmotic pressure under the eyes and reduce puffiness, and hydrating actives glycerine and hyaluronic acid, which draw moisture from the lowers layers of the skin, according to Medik8. The company states that Illuminating Eye Balm gives both immediate and long-term brightening of the under-eye area.

Complications

Survey highlights lack of hyaluronidase awareness

A survey conducted by aesthetic practitioners Dr Mohamed Hani and Dr Philippe Hamida-Pisal has indicated that there is a lack of standardisation for the training and practical use of hyaluronidase in aesthetic practice. 100 UK-based practitioners, from different backgrounds and levels of experience, answered questions about the use of hyaluronidase to correct problems related to dermal fillers. Although all practitioners confirmed that they believe hyaluronidase is essential for anyone practising dermal fillers, less than 60% of those surveyed had received formal training on how to administer the injectable. As well as this, 90% of those surveyed said that this should be an essential part of dermal filler training activities. Dr Hani commented, “Current literature has confirmed the essential role of hyaluronidase in aesthetic practice to correct and treat a number of acute and non-acute complications that could arise from dermal filler. Of note, the evidence supporting the above remains empirical and somewhat inconsistent. That may in turn lead to inconsistency in the theoretical knowledge, practical training agendas and clinical usage of hyaluronidase among aesthetic practitioners.”

Sun protection

New tinted SPF launches

Skincare company Institut Esthederm has introduced the Photo Reverse tinted high protection cream to its suncare range. The company explains that the cream is especially formulated to offer UV protection for hyperpigmented skin, while also giving it a tint of colour. According to the company, its global cellular protection technology helps to prevent cellular damage and gradually brightens the skin. The formula also contains yellow and orange pigments which aim to protect skin against blue light. Dermatologist Dr Ariel Haus commented, “Photo Reverse specifically targets hyperpigmentation with brightening peptides and powerful antioxidants. This can help protect against oxidative stress by neutralising free radicals, which are all around us in UV light, visible light, stress and pollution.”

BACN UPDATES

A roundup of the latest news and events from the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses BACN PRIDE

There is no question that this is an extremely difficult time. Many are closing their businesses and offering their skills back to the NHS. The BACN is applauding those who have taken the decision to work temporarily in the NHS; helping out, giving valuable expertise to the public and helping to ease the burden that has been placed on NHS staff.

RENEWALS AND EVENTS

While the BACN could not be prouder of how members have reacted in this unprecedented situation, we operate our renewals period during April and May. Unfortunately the BACN simply cannot exist without the financial commitment from members in each membership year. The BACN is looking at all possible ways to continue, whilst also understanding issues members are having with finances at this time and have contacted members to discuss in more detail. As members will be aware, the BACN was due to begin the Spring/ Summer regional meetings in the coming months. The BACN is assessing the viability of hosting all events four weeks out and will be notifying members of cancellations at this point, if not before. The BACN hopes that some of the later dates will still be able to go ahead, however this promise cannot be made at this moment in time.

VIRTUAL SUPPORT

The BACN has been working tirelessly with its regional leaders, strategic partners, sponsors and BACN Board to deliver members valuable resources and information during this time. The BACN is currently working with partners to provide resources and for these to include pre-recorded demonstrations, educational presentations, business advice and much more from industry-leading voices. These will be followed by Q&A sessions with the speakers who were booked to attend. In addition, the BACN is also planning to provide a peer-to-peer support session during the online meetings whereby members can ask questions to the group and their regional leaders. Please contact Tara Glover at tglover@bacn.org.uk to talk through the steps needed to take part.

This column is written and supported by the BACN

Menopausal skincare

Mesoestetic launches two intradermal solutions

Pharmaceutical company mesoestetic has introduced two new products for intradermal injection to its mesohyal range, mesohyal REDENX and mesohyal ARGIBENONE. mesohyal REDENX is aimed at treating gravitational wrinkles whilst enhancing skin density and firmness. The company explains that it combines a tripeptide and a tetrapeptide to activate the synthesis proteins of the extracellular matrix, improving the redensification biological mechanisms impaired by the reduction of oestrogens and other factors of ageing. mesohyal ARGIBENONE is an antioxidant solution aimed at reducing dynamic expression lines and photo-induced damage by combining a biomimetic hexapeptide and idebenone with hyaluronic acid. This acts on the formation process of expression lines and on the key cell pathways that are altered during the ageing process, the company claims. Adam Birtwistle, managing director of mesoestetic UK, said, “Our two new ampoules, mesohyal REDENX and mesohyal ARGIBENONE represent a new generation of biological active ingredients formulated with biomimetic peptides; expect the high quality and results associated with products from mesoestetic combined with care and innovation. These two products alone offer the complete antiageing solution, with particular reference to the often-neglected needs of menopausal skin.”

Body contouring

New cryotherapy machine launches

US aesthetic equipment brand Zemits has launched in the UK, introducing its CoolRestore cryotherapy device to the market. The device has two treatments modes: cryo mode and smart mode. According to Zemits, the cryo treatment mode uses cold therapy as low as -18°C, and can be performed in one target area for anywhere between 15-30 minutes. The company explains that this allows for the skin to cool to a temperature that enables fat elimination and skin firming. The smart treatment mode has a preset protocol that changes between hot and cold therapy, alternating between two minutes of each. Referred to as shock thermal therapy, the company states that this boosts the effectiveness of eliminating adipocytes. CoolRestore also has a handpiece that is able to measure the current temperature of the skin, and indicate that on the device’s screen. Zemits explains that this allows the operator to always be aware of the patient’s current temperature.

Skincare

Skinbetter Science releases two new products

Skincare company Skinbetter Science has introduced two new products to its portfolio, the AlphaRet Professional Peel System and the sunbetter tone smart SPF 50. The AlphaRet Professional Peel System, formulated with lactic, glycolic and salicylic acid, comes in two strengths – 30 and 50 – which the company explains is to benefit a broad range of patients and skin types. Skinbetter Science states that strength 30 is designed for patients with mildly photo-damaged skin, including those with early signs of ageing and blemishes, whereas strength 50 is aimed at patients with moderate photodamage, fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, blemishes, uneven skin tone and dullness. The sunbetter tone smart SPF 50 is a mineral-active sun protection product in a toneadapting compact, that also tints the skin. It contains active ingredients, zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Skinbetter Science explains that this is ideal for patients post treatment, or those with sensitive skin, because it provides protection from UVA and UVB rays, blue light and infrared radiation. Skinbetter Science is distributed in the UK exclusively by AestheticSource. A webinar on the two products will be hosted on the Aesthetics website on April 28 from 6pm.

On the Scene

Thames Skin Clinic opening, Twickenham

On March 6, Thames Skin Clinic opened its doors to journalists and practitioners for its spring launch event. Over the course of the day there were educational talks about a variety of topics, including growth factors, facial redness, how to achieve healthy skin, how wrinkle treatments work and the art of achieving natural looking results. There were also live demonstrations showcasing treatments offered in the clinic, such as a Plasma Shower facial and a ZO Stimulator Peel. Clinic owner and aesthetic practitioner Dr Anna Hemming, said, “It’s been a 12-year journey for me to open this clinic, and along the way I’ve learnt what’s important – making sure the licenses are correct and that the environment is safe for patients. We offer a full range of antiageing and skin treatments, as well as injectables. I have my own bespoke protocols under the Thames name, so we really do look after individual’s skin and we want to take them on a journey.”

News in Brief

BABTAC criticises non-medic influencer injectors

The British Association of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology (BABTAC) has released a statement expressing concerns with the rise of non-medically trained influencers administering injectables. To highlight the importance of medical training, BABTAC has released a photo of a medical emergency kit to encourage patients to question whether their practitioner is in possession of this kit, as well as the risks associated with going to an untrained injector. BABTAC has also suggested a number of other questions that patients should ask when considering injectable treatments.

ABC lasers expands business

UK laser and light-based device distributor ABC Lasers is expanding its national sales team, with the promotion of Adam Bashier to national sales director as well as hiring two new business development mangers, Marianne Evangeli and Albert Best. Bashier, previously a business development manager for the company, said of his new position, “It’s been an exciting seven years working for ABC Lasers. I am proud to head up such a dedicated team for such a strong and well respected brand in the laser sector.”

Scottish Government to collect evidence for complications

As part of its current Consultation on the Regulation of Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures in Scotland, the Scottish Government is collecting information on a UK-wide basis in an attempt to gather evidence on harm caused by non-surgical cosmetic procedures. The Government states that they need information to inform their next steps, because it is proving difficult to obtain reliable evidence to support the reported increase in complications. Submissions to the questionnaire must be submitted by April 17.

iS Clinical launches travel-sized balm

Skincare company iS Clinical has launched a travel-sized version of the Sheald Recovery Balm. The company states that the new size means patients can take their aftercare treatment while they’re travelling, making sure they can regularly apply and ensure optimum post-treatment results. The company recommends that the balm is used post procedure to prevent scabbing and itching, minimise scars and help wound healing. It can also be used as a daily moisturiser for dry and irritated skin. Harpar Grace International is the exclusive UK distributor of iS Clinical.

On the Scene

Skin of Colour Workshop, London

On March 12, Black Skin Directory (BSD) hosted a Skin of Colour Workshop at the Harley Academy, London. The purpose of the event was to educate skin health professionals on the needs of skin of colour patients, and how best to treat their concerns. Throughout the day there were talks from various speakers including; oral and maxillofacial surgeon Ms Natasha Berridge, aesthetician Andy Millward, aesthetic practitioner Dr Ifeoma Ejikeme and consultant dermatologist Dr Sandeep Cliff. Dija Ayodele, CEO of BSD, said, “It was great to see so many professionals in the room

On the Scene

UCL Aesthetics

MS Launch,

London On March 12, leading aesthetic surgeons and practitioners came together for the launch of the Master of Surgery course in Aesthetic Surgery and Minimally Invasive Aesthetics. Based at University College London (UCL), the Master’s degree will launch in September 2021. The programme aims to provide clinicians with a rigorous education in clinical skills, contemporary best practice and evidencebased principles in aesthetics. Programme leader Professor Ash Mosahebi welcomed attendees to the launch, before giving a keynote address on trends and opportunities within the medical aesthetic profession. Dr Eqram Rahman shared an overview of the course, while other talks discussed advanced aesthetics in breast and torso treatments, advanced aesthetics in the head and neck module, an introduction to advanced aesthetic practice for minimally-invasive treatments and the impact of postgraduate programmes in aesthetics. Following the event, Dr Rahman commented, “The launch was wonderful; the diversity of discussions was outstanding and the sessions were engaging and insightful. There was a lot of stimulating discussion around evidencebased practice which, to my knowledge, the only such initiative to promote, practice and excel the patient safety and care in the field of aesthetic medicine by a higher education institute in the UK.”

dedicated to furthering their knowledge in skin of colour concerns. The workshop was a complete sell out and a huge success. The speakers kept the delegated engaged all day with interesting content, from understanding how melanocyte activity is different to why skin whitening and bleaching is still prevalent in some communities. The Q&A sessions delivered practical nuggets that the delegates could take back to their clinics to provide a higher level of service to the skin of colour patients which no doubt will have a positive effect on their to have the support of AestheticSource who supported the delegates learning with goody bags containing Cyspera and Clinisept+.”

bottom lines too! We were grateful

On the Scene

Mentorship Workshop, Harley Street

Following the postponement of ACE 2020 last month, Aesthetics Clinical Advisory Board member Dr Tapan Patel offered to hold a free workshop for a small group of practitioners who had travelled to London for the event. Taking place at Dr Patel’s PHI Clinic in Harley Street on March 13, the session gave practitioners new to aesthetics the opportunity to ask questions and discuss best practice within the specialty. As a key opinion leader and award-winning clinic owner with more than 20 years’ experience, Dr Patel was able to share valuable insight on patient retention and product selection, as well as advising on complication prevention and management. One of the first questions asked was, how do you get more patients? Dr Patel recommended practitioners aim to hold clinics at least once a week and dedicate as much time to patients as possible. “Even if you haven’t got many patients, still book an hour with them,” he said, adding, “Ask lots of questions and really take your time to assess their concerns. It’s all excellent learning opportunities for you, and patients will value your time. Give great service and go the extra mile.” The delegates noted that one of the main challenges they face when it comes to patient retention was competition, particularly from non-medics practising in their locality. Dr Patel reminded the practitioners that their unique selling point is that they are medical professionals, often with years of clinical experience, so they should really emphasise that in their marketing. He also urged practitioners not to offer financial incentives for treatments, as doing so would be a breach of Advertising Standards Authority guidelines and professional codes of conduct. “As an alternative, consider offering added value to your patients’ treatments with a facial or glycolic acid peel,” he suggested, emphasising, “Never compromise your ethics and remember that your best advocate is your patient – it’s much more expensive to recruit a new patient than it is to look after your existing.” The next question asked was how do you choose treatments and products for your clinic? Having trialled numerous injectable brands and energy-based devices, Dr Patel advised delegates to always analyse the studies behind the products, look at their track record and the expert panel using them. He noted, “Don’t choose something just because it’s cheaper – I always ask myself, ‘Would I use this on my mum?’ and if the answer is no, then I wouldn’t use it on my patients.”