10 Minutes with Demi Louise Hooper-Tink - 2024 ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year, by Louise May

Taking out one of the most prestigious honours in the Australian beauty industry, the title of 2024 ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year, is no small feat—and for this dedicated skin specialist, it marks a defining moment in a career built on passion, purpose, and genuine care.

With over 10 years in the industry, she’s gone from a spontaneous high school course enrolment to becoming a senior leader at Skintifix, known for her results-driven approach, her deep focus on education, and the strong, lasting connections she builds with clients.

In this chat with Louise May, Editor of Mocha Beauty, Demi reflects on the journey so far, shares her thoughts on evolving with the industry, and gives us a glimpse into what fuels her both in and out of the treatment room.

Congratulations on winning 2024 ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year! How does it feel to receive this recognition?

Thank you! Being named the 2024 ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year was a massive shock for me, I honestly wasn’t expecting it! I feel so honoured to have received this award and it’s definitely been a huge career highlight for me.

It’s made me even more passionate about being a part of the industry and the work that I’m doing. 10 years ago, I could have never imagined that I would win an award as big as this, so it has definitely inspired and motivated me to push my skills even further.

You’ve been in the industry for 10 years. Tell us about your journey, what initially sparked your passion for skin health and beauty therapy?

I actually ended up in this industry purely by accident! I signed up for a cert 3 in beauty during high school with a friend, and it turned out I really enjoyed it and was actually pretty good at it. It was when I was studying my Diploma that I found my love for skin health. I remember when we were learning about the integumentary system and I thought “this is what I want to do, I want to specialise in skin”. I’ve worked in a couple of different clinics, mainly doing all the standard beauty treatments to begin with, then 6 years ago I got a job at a clinic that was a little more skin focused and fell in love with the skin all over again! During COVID that clinic unfortunately closed down, which led me to my current job at Skintifix. I’ve now been here for 5 years and solely work on skin health and laser hair removal, which I absolutely love. I’ve been able to expand on my skills and knowledge so much which has been amazing.

Education is a big focus for you. How do you ensure your clients feel empowered and informed about their skin?

Almost all of my clients start their skin journey with an Advanced Skin Analysis, where I teach them the basics of how the skin works, what impacts our skin and the things we can do to have better skin health. I honestly believe that when clients know the why and how, it makes everything easier for the both of us! Education is a huge part of what I do, and in an industry that is constantly evolving it’s so important for me to keep up to date with the latest fads and trends as I know my clients are going to ask about them!

With the rising cost of living, how have you adapted your approach to help clients maintain their skin health on a budget?

This is something that I’m sure everyone in the industry is feeling, and definitely something we’ve had to tackle! I’ve taken the approach of “less is more”. So, for example if I think my client would really benefit from a custom serum, but that extra product isn’t really in their budget, I’ll opt for a custom moisturiser. That way they’re getting 2 in 1 and we’re not having to compromise too much! If clients can only afford minimal products, I’m always thinking “what are the main things their skin NEEDS” and focusing more on that. I’ve also noticed some clients unable to come into the clinic as often, so really making sure their home care routine is solid is key.

You’ve taken on more of a leadership role at Skintifix. What has that experience been like for you?

I have! I’ve found it a really empowering experience. I think it has not only helped strengthen my own skills and confidence but has allowed me to inspire and help guide the therapists around me. I’m looking forward to progressing in this role and seeing where it takes me!

What’s one of the most rewarding aspects of being a senior skin therapist?

I think for me; it’s definitely the client connection and being able to make a noticeable difference in people’s lives. So many clients are feeling self-conscious of their skin when they first come in, and seeing their confidence shine through as their skin changes is everything to me.

I find client connection so important and rewarding, there’s something really special about being there for all your clients’ big moments!

Continuous learning is clearly important to you. Are there any recent trainings or insights that have particularly excited you?

I’ve actually recently been really interested in the more internal side of skin health and how our diet and lifestyle impact our skin. I’ve just started a course on the basics of nutrition and when I finish that I’d love to do some of Chiza Westcarr’s courses through the Nutrition & Skin Care Academy!

I’m also loving all of the talk about menopause at the moment and learning the impacts that hormone changes have not only in our skin, but our life in general!

What advice would you give to aspiring beauty therapists looking to make an impact in the industry?

Surround yourself with people who believe in you and push you out of your comfort zone, it’s the best way to grow and progress!

Anything exciting on the agenda over the next 12 months?

I’m currently working on an application for this year’s ABIA awards which I’m really excited about. Otherwise, I’m just focussed on keeping consistent with my work and education!

I’ve also got a few little trips away with my wife booked this year which I’m looking forward to.

SOME QUICK FUN ONES:

Favourite Drink? My go to coffee order is an iced oat latte, an essential for the big clinic days!

Favourite Food? Italian for sure. Give me all the bread and pastas! You can only use three skincare products for the rest of your life, what would they be? Ooooh, tricky one! I’d have to say my Dermaviduals cleanser and moisturiser, and a good SPF!

Worst TikTok skincare trend you have come across? I’ve seen a lot, but I have to say beef tallow takes the cake. I’m sorry, but beef fat belongs in the fry pan, not on our faces!

@skintifix