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EDITOR’S
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Linda Woodhead linda@mochagroup.com.au
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Jarred Stedman jarred@mochagroup.com.au
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Louise May louise@mochagroup.com.au
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Louise May
Nicole Montgomery
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Elle Wilson
James Vivian
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Jade Spehr
Jay Chapman
Elle Huempel
Keira Maloney
Kayla Zigic
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Angeli Marie Shaw
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I’ve been sitting with this letter for longer than usual.
Not because I didn’t have anything to say... but because right now, everything feels loud. Business is tough. The pressure is real. Clinics are navigating rising costs, changing regulations, client uncertainty, and an overwhelming amount of compliance. It’s exhausting, and if you’re feeling it, you’re not alone.
But here’s what I know for sure: this industry is strong. It’s smart. And it’s made up of people who are capable of incredible things, especially when we stop trying to do it all on our own.
As Editor of Mocha Beauty, I see both sides every day, the burnout and the brilliance. And while we can’t sugar-coat the current climate, we also can’t afford to stay stuck in survival mode. Now more than ever, we need clarity, courage, and community.
That’s why this issue matters. For the first time, I’ve handed the reins to our first ever Guest Editor, the brilliant Nicole Montgomery, who brings her insight and experience to the conversations we need to be having. Her deep-dive into the AHPRA and TGA changes is a wake-up call, but also a practical, level-headed guide to what comes next. This is more than a policy shift, it’s a line in the sand. A moment where you either step up, or risk getting left behind.
And with EOFY approaching, it’s time to pause and take a serious look at your business. Not just the bank balance, the whole picture. Superannuation is going up. Wages are increasing. Expenses are rising across the board. If you don’t know your break-even or where your pricing sits, now’s the time to sort it out.
The start of the new financial year is a good time to block out a business focus day, to do a 360-degree audit of your entire business. Look at the numbers. Look at the team. Look at your client journey, Look at what’s ahead in the next
12 months. What’s been working? What hasn’t? What you have achieved, and have you actually stopped to acknowledge any of it?
Then, look at the challenges. Be honest about where the gaps are. Make a plan, that’s clear and doable.
This isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing what’s necessary. What actually moves the needle.
Back yourself. Stay in your lane. Get clear. And keep moving forward with intention.
Looking ahead, I’m really looking forward to reconnecting with many of you at Beauty Expo Australia on Saturday and Sunday, 16–17 August in Sydney. It’s always a highlight! not just for the new products and education, but for the conversations, the catch-ups, and the sense of community that happens when everyone is all in the same room.
Then on Sunday evening, we come together for our 2025 ABIA Gala event at The Star Sydney, one of the most special nights of the year. It’s our chance to acknowledge the incredible work happening across the industry, celebrate the wins, and take a moment to enjoy it all with the people who truly live and breathe this space.
I can’t wait to see you there.
Louise May, Editor - Mocha Beauty Magazine Editor in Chief - Mocha Group
Dermapen Treatments™ empower your patients to rewrite their skin’s history.
“The results of my treatments have made me feel so much more confident in my own skin and how I feel about myself. I could not be happier.”
– Sami, Australia
Contact your local distributor or scan QR code to learn how to become an Authorised Treatment Provider.
Contact your local distributor or scan QR code to learn how to become an Authorised Treatment Provider.
GUEST EDITOR’S LETTER
Well hello there, fellow skin lovers!
Let’s rewind to 2002. Backstreet Boys were still topping the charts, ghd’s were the height of innovation, and I was a bright-eyed marketing assistant by day, budding beauty therapist by night (and weekends!). Every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday, I’d duck off to Ella Baché, determined to make my mark in the world of beauty. I learnt all the classics... facials, massage, tinting, and yes, even electrolysis (the medieval art of removing hair one zap at a time).
Fast forward 20+ years, and let me tell you, the industry has evolved faster than your favourite peptide serum absorbs. And while we’re now spoiled for choice with tech that feels closer to Star Trek than skin prep, the heart of what we do hasn’t changed. It’s always been about confidence, care, and connection.
Just like me, Mocha Group has been part of this wild, wonderful world for two decades. Together, we’ve celebrated the shifts, the shine, and the sass of this ever-evolving aesthetic space. So, in honour of that journey, I thought, what better way to celebrate than with a little then-vs-now nostalgia and a peek into what’s hotter than a lunchtime LED treatment.
Twenty years ago, we were talking microdermabrasion and collagen masks. Today? We’re injecting salmon sperm DNA and resurfacing skin with lasers that look like they came straight out of NASA. Yep, you heard me. Salmon sperm. And it’s not just trending. It’s transforming skin.
In this issue, I’ve roped in three of my absolute favourites to give you the inside scoop on the trends taking over TikTok, Instagram, and treatment rooms everywhere. I had the pleasure of interviewing a leading Dermatologist, Cosmetic Physician and Registered Nurse.
First up, the one and only Miss Alex Pike RN — injectables royalty, skincare queen, and aesthetic icon. I am beyond excited to interview her for this special feature. With over a million monthly views across her platform, she’s sharing why Rejuran (AKA that viral salmon sperm treatment) is her go-to. Forget overfilled. Glass skin is in, and Alex is here to tell us why.
Now let’s talk lasers that leave a legacy.
I caught up with the legendary Dr. John Sullivan — Australia’s go-to dermatologist and co-owner of Kingsway Dermatology — to talk about Laser Coring and the UltraClear device that has derms and docs buzzing. If you thought CO2 was king, wait until you meet this resurfacing rockstar. (Warning: side effects may include falling head over heels for your skin again.)
And speaking of industry superstars, I’m thrilled to feature the ever-inspiring Dr. Cosima Karlburger — a leader in ethical aesthetics and skin health. With a brand-new purpose-built clinic in Bondi and a loyal patient base who adore her holistic, evidence-based approach, Dr. Cosima is redefining what it means to deliver results-driven care with integrity. Her feature on Aerolase and the future of non-invasive treatments is a must-read!
This issue is all about reflecting, celebrating, and most importantly, looking ahead. Because while the tech has changed (goodbye magnifying lamp, hello AI skin scans), the mission remains the same: help people feel fabulous in their own skin.
Mocha, you’ve been with us through the trends, the transformations, the triumphs, and a few questionable brow shapes along the way. So, here’s to Mocha Group, a true industry trailblazer. 20+ years of delivering insights, inspiration, and a whole lot of heart. I’m honoured to be a part of the family for this issue.
Let’s raise our LED wands and toast to the future. The best is yet to come, and I’m so glad we’re in it together.
So, pour a bubbly (or a collagen shot), dive into the issue, and let’s toast to bold moves, bright skin, and a community that never stops growing.
MATTER OF FACT uses patented technologies* to deliver proven actives—like Vitamin C and Retinol— more effectively to the skin. Every formula undergoes thousands of hours of independent clinical testing, ensuring results that are not just promised, but proven.
By targeting multiple skin concerns from multiple angles, our formulations streamline both in-clinic treatments and at-home maintenance. For professionals, that means fewer steps, faster outcomes, and more efficient protocols—without compromising efficacy.
SIMPLIFIED EFFICACY – Powerful ingredients designed to work across all skin types and multiple concerns
TREATMENT-READY FORMULATIONS – Gentle on sensitive skin, potent enough for high-performance results
DATA YOU CAN DEPEND ON – A clinical commitment supported by independent, unbiased testing on every final formula
The Future of Skin? Korean Salmon Sperm (Yes, Really)
By Nicole Montgomery - Guest Editor, Mocha Beauty
What do Dolly Magazine, Daily Mail headlines, and world-leading aesthetic trends have in common? One name: Alex Pike. From gracing the cover of Dolly Magazine as a teenage model to becoming one of the most trusted names in cosmetic medicine, Alex Pike has carved an extraordinary path. With a global presence, an impeccable client list, and her signature blend of clinical precision and heartfelt care, she is nothing short of an aesthetic powerhouse.
Alex has worked alongside facelift pioneer Dr. Bryan Mendelson, been one of the first Australian registered nurses appointed to the Allergan Faculty, and now leads one of the country’s most in-demand clinics, Face by Alex Pike, across Melbourne, Albury, and Sydney. She’s also a devoted mum of three boys, a wellness warrior, a podcaster, and a globally recognised influencer with a loyal audience in Australia, the US, and Europe.
And while her media presence may be polished and glamorous, what makes Alex truly magnetic is her authenticity. She’s generous, driven, empathetic—and fiercely committed to her clients. She lives what she teaches, and it shows.
I, Nicole Montgomery, am absolutely thrilled to bring you this exclusive interview with Alex, for Mocha Beauty—an inspiring conversation about the next wave of aesthetics, the rise of regenerative medicine, and yes… the power of salmon sperm.
Alex, you’re constantly ahead of the curve. Right now, you’re a vocal advocate for biostimulators. What are they and why are they so game-changing?
Biostimulators are a complete shift in how we approach ageing skin. Rather than simply filling volume like traditional dermal fillers, biostimulators actually stimulate the skin’s
natural collagen and elastin production. That’s real regeneration—not camouflage.
One of the most exciting breakthroughs has been Rejuran, a biostimulator that uses polynucleotides derived from salmon DNA—yes, salmon sperm. It might sound unusual, but it’s backed by serious science and incredible clinical results.
Salmon sperm in skincare sounds like something straight off a TikTok trend—but it’s actually serious business.
It’s the real deal. In fact, I was so intrigued, I went straight to the source—South Korea. Last year, I spent time with some of the leading dermatologists and manufacturers of Rejuran, even visiting the Rejuran factory where the wild Oncorhynchus keta (chum salmon) are carefully redirected from the river, through the factory. It was surreal—there I was, in fishing overalls, overlooking all this salmon, that I was able to catch with a net. All whilst learning how their DNA is purified and turned into one of the world’s most effective skin-healing treatments.
The science is fascinating. Specifically, the active ingredientpolynucleotides (PNs), which are DNA fragments extracted from wild salmon. The polynucleotides in salmon DNA are remarkably similar to human DNA, which is why our bodies respond so well. They accelerate skin repair, improve hydration, and stimulate fibroblast activity to boost collagen and elastin.
We’re not just putting salmon on your face—we’re rebuilding your skin’s health from the inside out.
That’s such a cool full-circle moment—literally going to the source of beauty. And Rejuran has been huge overseas, right?
Massive. In South Korea, Rejuran is practically a rite of passage—brides, K-pop stars, actors, influencers—everyone’s doing it. It’s considered part of your skin maintenance regime, not just a one-off luxury.
Even celebs like BLACKPINK’s Jennie and Song Hye-Kyo have been rumoured to be fans of biostimulators like Rejuran, and the “glass skin” they flaunt is a direct result of regenerative skin care, not just filters.
In Australia, we’re finally catching up, and I’m proud to be part of that education and transformation.
Alex Pike
And do you pair it with LED in every treatment?
Absolutely. At Face by Alex Pike, LED therapy is non-negotiable. It enhances collagen production, reduces inflammation, and accelerates healing. When combined with Rejuran—or microneedling, or skin boosters—it becomes a complete skin overhaul from the inside out.
So, how are your clients responding to this shift from fillers to regeneration?
They love it. Many of my patients—especially in their 30s and 40s—are increasingly asking for treatments that improve their skin, not just plump it. Rejuran appeals to people who want elegant ageing. And yes, I always say: Glow is the new lift.
“Glow is the new lift”—that should be your tagline. (Laughs) Maybe I’ll trademark it! But it’s true. We’re shifting from overvolumised aesthetics to healthy, luminous skin. Biostimulators are the foundation of that movement. They’re perfect for clients who want to age elegantly, not obviously.
Can you tell us more about your clinic. What makes Face by Alex Pike such a sought-after destination?
We’re known for natural, bespoke treatments and complete discretion. Many of my clients are high-profile professionals, influencers, even celebrities— but everyone is treated with the same care and confidentiality. We focus on education, prevention, and rejuvenation. My goal is always to enhance, never to alter.
What advice would you give to practitioners looking to bring biostimulators into their practice?
Know your products. Educate yourself and your clients. Rejuran isn’t a quick fix—it’s a long game, and you need to set expectations accordingly. And don’t be afraid of combination therapy—LED, needling, skin boosters… these work best together.
Given the knowledge you have developed over years of practicing, where do you see the industry heading? Regenerative medicine is the future. The aesthetics space is evolving from enhancement to optimisation. Clients want real results, not trends. I believe in inside-out beauty—hormonal health, gut health, skincare, and skin science. It all plays a role.
Alex, you’re one of the first Australian nurses to be part of the Allergan Faculty, you worked alongside facelift pioneer Dr. Bryan Mendelson, and you’ve built an empire as a mum of three. What keeps you motivated? Honestly? My clients. Seeing them feel confident and radiant fuels me. I’m also endlessly curious—I love learning, evolving, and pushing boundaries. And I want to set an example for my sons—that you can be successful, kind, and driven, all at once.
And you’re incredibly generous with your knowledge— thank you again for sharing this with Mocha Beauty! Thank you, Nicole and to all the readers – keep glowing from the inside out!
www.facebyalexpike.com.au
Instagram: @missalexpike Podcast: Inside Out Beauty
This article was proudly written by Nicole Montgomery, Guest Editor for Mocha Beauty, in celebration of two decades of beauty, evolution, and excellence.
Nicole Montgomery
An Industry in Turmoil: A Turning Point for Cosmetic Medicine in Australia
By Nicole Montgomery, Guest Editor.
I’ve had the unique privilege of working in the aesthetic industry for over two decades—first as a registered nurse, and now as a marketing strategist supporting clinics and brands nationwide. But nothing I’ve experienced quite compares to the seismic regulatory shifts we’re currently facing.
As I write this, the cosmetic medicine landscape is undergoing the biggest transformation in its history. The combined force of recent AHPRA and TGA regulatory changes has left many clinic owners, injectors, and even patients feeling uncertain, overwhelmed, and in some cases, angry.
At the most recent Aesthetic Business Masters event, we were fortunate to hear from Robin Curran, a compliance consultant and expert who delivered an eye-opening session titled “Compliance in Action.” It was Robin’s presentation that inspired this article. This feature is not a rant. Nor is it an endorsement of any one point of view. It is a clear-eyed look at the reality we face, an exploration of the rules reshaping our work, and a call for collaboration, education, and adaptation.
AHPRA Guidelines: Redefining Cosmetic Medicine
On 3 June 2025, AHPRA released two critical documents:
• Guidelines for registered health practitioners who perform non-surgical cosmetic procedures
• Guidelines for advertising higher risk non-surgical cosmetic procedures These guidelines represent the most extensive compliance reform the industry has seen. Here’s what you need to know:
Comprehensive Patient Consultations
Practitioners are now required to:
• Conduct real-time suitability assessments (no text or asynchronous consults)
• Screen for psychological conditions, including Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
• Ensure decisions are based on informed motivations—not external pressures
• Allow cooling-off periods for minors and high-risk treatments
• Asynchronous Prescribing is Banned
All prescribing for Schedule 4 medications must be done via real-time video or in-person consults—no emails, DMs, or batch prescribing.
Tightened Scopes of Practice
• Enrolled nurses must be directly supervised by RNs and complete relevant upskilling
• Midwives and dental nurses must not work beyond their general registration scope
• Only doctors and nurse practitioners may prescribe S4s—and only after consults
Documentation & Training
• All practitioners must undergo training in complications management, scope of practice, and ethical advertising
• Post-procedure care plans must include emergency contacts, batch numbers, and medication logs
These requirements are designed to elevate clinical standards, reduce adverse outcomes, and enhance patient safety through rigorous assessment and oversight. Importantly, the guidelines make clear distinctions between elective cosmetic enhancement and therapeutic medical care—urging practitioners to maintain transparency in their patient interactions and promotional activities.
TGA Advertising Changes: What You Can and Can’t Say
The TGA’s crackdown on cosmetic advertising has left marketers scrambling to remove thousands of social media posts. Here’s what’s now prohibited:
• Mentioning brand names of prescription-only injectables
• Referring to “anti-wrinkle” or “dermal filler” in promotions
• Using before-and-after images linked to prescription treatments
• Offering discounts, giveaways, or influencer promotions tied to scheduled medicines
• Advertising price promotions for these treatments
The TGA reinforced that prescription medicines are not consumer goods and must not be presented as such.
Some clinics have had to pause their marketing entirely while legal counsel and compliance teams review their operations. Several practitioners I’ve spoken to have deactivated websites and social accounts altogether to avoid breaching the guidelines.
Robin Curran’s “Compliance in Action”: A Reality Check
Robin’s presentation was a wake-up call. Her clear, legally grounded session mapped out what ethical, compliant practice looks like in 2025— and it’s not as simple as updating a consent form. She explained how regulations intersect with:
• NSQHS National Standards
• Health Practitioner Regulation National Law (2012)
• State-based Medicines and Poisons Acts
• Cold Chain Compliance
• Privacy Law, Advertising Law, and even flooring requirements
Robin Curran
Her biggest message? “Compliance is foundational. You must audit everything.”
One of the most striking comparisons Robin drew was between nurseled clinics and clinics with medical oversight. It’s not about ego or hierarchy—it’s about future-proofing your clinic against regulatory breaches and risk.
Robin emphasized that the shift is from ‘nice-to-have’ policies to ‘must-have’ frameworks. Every clinic must now act like a mini health service—tracking every medication, documenting every protocol, and recording every patient interaction to ensure traceability and safety.
Case Study: Queensland’s Strict Enforcement
Queensland has become ground zero for compliance enforcement.
Under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 and the MPMR 2021, nurse-led clinics face serious limitations:
• S4 products must be prescribed under direct authority and administered under real-time guidance
• Clinics cannot ‘stock and store’ S4s unless they hold an appropriate authorisation
• Dispensing from a pharmacy to a nurse for cosmetic use is considered “selling”—a breach of the law
Several Queensland clinics have already received cease and desist notices, with enforcement actions underway. Robin’s advice? If you’re in Queensland, “review your prescriber arrangements and facility compliance immediately.”
The Practitioner Perspective
In my day-to-day work, I speak with many clinic owners, and they’ve expressed a mix of frustration and determination:
• “I want to be compliant, but I don’t know who to trust for the right information.”
• “I’m worried about patient retention with these new consult restrictions.”
• “It’s hard to rebuild my website from scratch without saying anything clinical.”
It’s hard. But this industry is resilient.
Many are seeking legal advice, hiring compliance consultants, rewriting SOPs, and attending training seminars to ensure their teams are aligned.
I asked Sheri-lee Knoop the president of the Cosmetic Nurses Association her thoughts on the recent updates on the 3rd of June 2025. Here is what Sheri-lee had to say;
“The latest update to guidelines come after a long wait since the last consultation process. The CNA welcomes the clarity around required waiting times before entering the Aesthetics area of medicine and of required formal education for all health care professionals. The lack of clarity around what education that is exactly, is disappointing but understandable. It will take time to clarify some points around scope of practise, but the CNA feel that these guidelines provide sensible frameworks in which all Nurses can work compliantly for safer practice for their patients and themselves. It is time as a community to lift our standards across all specialties and stand together for community over competition and patient safety over profits.”
Sheri-lee Knoop, Registered Nurse Board President of the Cosmetic Nurses Association of Australia
From Confusion to Leadership: Where Do We Go From Here?
Robin closed her presentation with the mantra: “Compliance can feel daunting—but it’s not impossible.”
So what’s next? Education
Bookmark the AHPRA, TGA, and state health websites. Stay current. Subscribe to industry newsletters. Attend compliance seminars.
Collaboration
Nurses need accessible prescribers. Clinics need transparent protocols. Partner wisely.
Communication
Educate your patients on why things are changing. Use TGA-compliant language. Trust is built through transparency.
Audit Everything
Start with marketing. Then review policies, scripts, consent forms, and storage protocols.
The Bottom Line
This isn’t just a tough moment—it’s a turning point. We can resist change or lead with integrity.
Let’s choose to lead. Let’s build businesses and brands that thrive because they are ethical, not in spite of it.
By Nicole Montgomery, Registered Nurse and Marketing Consultant
A special thank you to Robin Curran for her leadership and for helping this industry elevate its standards. Thank you to all the professionals pushing through this transition with courage, clarity, and community.
For further reading and full regulatory details, visit:
• AHPRA Guidelines (2025)
• TGA Statement on Cosmetic Advertising
• Queensland Health Factsheet
Sheri-lee Knoop
Nicole Montgomery
10 minutes with Dr John Sullivan on UltraClear.
By Nicole Montgomery – Guest Editor
UltraClear has been called the biggest breakthrough since the CO₂ laser boom of the 1980s — and for good reason. So, what makes UltraClear revolutionary, and how is it reshaping laser dermatology?
The key lies in how it transforms fractionated ablative laser technology, which itself was a major leap forward from traditional full-field laser resurfacing.
When CO₂ lasers were introduced, they delivered dramatic results but came with significant downsides — prolonged downtime, high risk of delayed healing, post-treatment redness, and complications like infection or scarring. The advent of fractionated lasers improved safety and recovery by creating microscopic treatment zones surrounded by intact skin, allowing faster healing. However, early fractionated systems had limitations: less impressive results compared to full-field resurfacing and the need for multiple sessions to achieve meaningful outcomes.
UltraClear changes that. Here’s how:
1. Erbium Advantage — With Depth
UltraClear is an Erbium:YAG 2910 nm laser, traditionally considered safer than CO₂ due to its lower thermal damage. But what sets UltraClear apart is its Cold Fiber technology and proprietary pulse sequencing, allowing it to reach depths previously only achievable with CO₂ — without the associated heat injury.
2. Smart Pulse Delivery
Unlike older lasers that use long, heat-generating pulses, UltraClear uses rapid, high-precision Erbium pulses that ablate tissue cleanly and efficiently. This approach minimizes collateral heat, leading to faster healing, less discomfort, and lower risk of complications.
3. Customisable Heat – Where You Want It
One of UltraClear’s most innovative features is the ability to precisely control heat delivery. In areas where thermal stimulation is beneficial, the system can deliver controlled heat at targeted depths. This mimics the rejuvenating effect of CO₂, but in a more even and controlled way, reducing surface trauma and improving recovery time.
4. Transformative Fractionation
Fractionation with UltraClear is more refined, allowing better preservation of surrounding tissue and more uniform healing. And unlike traditional fractionated lasers, it delivers visible results more akin to full-field CO₂ resurfacing without the downtime.
The Transformative Power of UltraClear’s Fractionated Laser – Enhanced by Intelligent Software
One of UltraClear’s most powerful advantages is its advanced software and treatment customisation.
The system offers an extensive range of programmable treatment options, allowing true personalisation based on:
• Skin type
• Specific skin conditions or concerns
• Depth of skin damage
• Desired downtime and recovery profile
The Clear and Clear+ modes enable safe and effective treatment across all skin types — from a light, refreshing laser peel to a deeper resurfacing treatment that mimics full-field ablation, but with fractional sparing for faster recovery.
UltraClear also allows for “drilling” into specific dermal layers, reaching down to the collagen-rich mid and deep dermis to:
• Remodel scars
• Tighten collagen and elastin
• Reverse sun-induced dermal degradation
What makes this system truly transformative is the ability to treat multiple skin levels in a single session. This enables targeting of:
• Superficial collagen layer beneath the epidermis — critical for restoring youthful skin tone and texture
• Deeper dermal layers — where sun damage, acne inflammation, or scarring often resides
I’ll use up to six or more depth levels within one treatment to deliver truly tailored results. This level of customisable, multi-depth fractionated laser delivery is a game-changer.
How does UltraClear compare to other fractional laser systems?
UltraClear stands apart due to its exceptional flexibility and precision, allowing it to address multiple skin concerns in a single treatment session. Unlike older fractional systems that often required combining multiple devices — such as picosecond lasers for pigment, non-ablative lasers for texture, and fractionated ablative lasers for resurfacing — UltraClear can do it all with one platform. Its intelligent software allows you to tailor the depth, density, and thermal impact of each laser pass. You can deliver precise, low-heat pulses to safely treat pigment or PIH-prone skin, while using more thermally active passes to tighten crepey or lax skin. This makes multi-pass, multi-depth treatments possible without overheating or damaging tissue.
Dr John Sullivan
What skin concerns or patient types have you seen benefit the most from UltraClear?
For many patients, the biggest barrier to treatment is fear of pigment disturbance or prolonged recovery — UltraClear’s precision and cooling pulse delivery significantly reduce these risks, allowing us to focus on achieving optimal outcomes.
We’ve seen excellent results in:
• Prejuvenation and prevention, where UltraClear is used to stimulate collagen and enhance skin quality.
• Event preparation, offering a refined “laser peel” glow with minimal downtime.
• Early photoaging, including texture irregularities and minor acne scarring.
• Deeper wrinkles and skin laxity, especially around high-movement areas like the eyes and mouth.
• Scarring, including acne and surgical scars, where UltraClear’s controlled depth and even tissue interaction enable effective remodelling.
• Pigmentation, particularly photoaging in patients with darker skin types, where UltraClear’s reduced thermal diffusion lowers PIH risk.
• Hormonal pigmentation, where growing evidence suggests UltraClear’s collagen and vascular remodelling may help support control of resistant melasma or dermal pigment changes.
In summary, UltraClear allows us to customise treatment to the patient, not just the diagnosis, offering safe, effective outcomes across many skin concerns.
Downtime, pain, and results — UltraClear seems to tick all three boxes. How is that possible?
UltraClear changes the game by combining precision laser engineering with advanced pulse control, allowing us to tailor treatments without compromising outcomes. The “cold” erbium delivery means significantly less heat, resulting in lower discomfort than traditional erbium, CO₂, or even many non-ablative lasers — often with minimal or no anaesthesia.
Patients who’ve experienced CO₂ are pleasantly surprised by how much more comfortable UltraClear is — and with faster healing and shorter downtime, too. What’s remarkable is that none of this comes at the cost of results. In fact, UltraClear’s versatile treatment modes can be layered or combined to maximise efficacy while still maintaining a patient-friendly recovery.
You’re a renowned educator and KOL for multiple devices. What was your first thought when you tried UltraClear? (Be honest, were you skeptical at first?)
Absolutely — I was skeptical at first. On the surface, the claims sounded like classic marketing: less pain, less downtime, great results. I’d seen it all before. But as I looked deeper into the engineering and IT behind UltraClear, it became clear this wasn’t just another laser — the technology genuinely offered something new. That’s when my perspective shifted. I started to explore how I could safely harness its full range of modes and customise treatment depth and intensity to different skin types and conditions. It wasn’t just about whether I should bring the device in — it became about how I could use it to treat patients more effectively than before. And that’s exactly what it’s done.
For the laser nerds and clinicians reading: What’s going on under the hood? How does the tech behind UltraClear differ from traditional laser systems?
Microcoring really illustrates how far the technology has come.
Mechanical microcoring always intrigued me — the concept of removing sagging or scarred skin without surgery was exciting — but early systems were messy, rigid, and limited in their application. What makes UltraClear different is the precision and control enabled by its advanced IT and laser engineering.
UltraClear’s ability to deliver exact, clean microcoring via laser — combined with the option to pre-treat the skin with a micro-laser peel and deliver topical analgesia and healing actives — transforms the treatment experience. It’s not just less invasive; it’s customisable, repeatable, and a legitimate non-surgical alternative for lifting and rejuvenation in areas like the face, neck, or eyelids.
If UltraClear were a person, how would you describe its personality?
For me, UltraClear is very much the James Bond of lasers — sleek, refined, and full of surprises under the hood. Like Bond, it keeps getting better with each iteration — same power and precision, but constantly evolving with cutting-edge technology. The lightweight handpiece and elegant design make it a pleasure to use with style, not just for patients but for clinicians too. And just like Bond, it’s built to age gracefully — delivering results now and staying relevant well into the future.
Do you see UltraClear replacing older tech, or becoming a complementary tool in a multi-modality practice?
I believe in using devices to their full serviceable lifespan — good technology should deliver value over time. That said, as laser technology evolves to address more—from skin cancer prevention to scar revision and advanced drug delivery—it’s crucial to adapt. UltraClear hasn’t replaced our existing devices, but it’s expanded what we can offer. Its safety in darker skin types, where we might have previously avoided ablative lasers, has been a game-changer.
If you could give one piece of advice to a clinician considering investing in UltraClear, what would it be?
Look beyond the specs and ask how it will fit into your patient journey. UltraClear isn’t just another fractional laser—it’s a platform that can grow with your practice. Spend time learning the different modes, because once you understand its flexibility, you’ll find it’s one of the most adaptable and patient-friendly lasers you’ve ever used.
Any advice you would like to leave us with?
One key insight: while it’s tempting to address everything in a single session, I’ve found that patients often benefit more from a series of thoughtfully tailored treatments. It’s about balancing efficacy with recovery. The skin tends to respond more favourably with repeat treatments—especially when you’re working on skin that’s already been repaired, rejuvenated, and “primed” to heal.
My advice is to layer multiple modes and strategies within each session, but don’t rush. Skin health is a lifelong journey. Tailor your approach to deliver both immediate results when needed—like for events—but also long-term improvements in skin quality, resilience, and function. Combine therapeutic treatment with long-term skin health as the true end goal.
www.kdaa.com.au
Why Oncology Aesthetics is the Future of Compassionate Skin Therapy
By Louise May
Cancer is a word no one wants to hear, but one that’s increasingly part of the lives of many Australians. With rates rising every year, the ripple effects extend well beyond hospitals and into unexpected spaces, such as spas, beauty clinics, and wellness centres.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the number of new cancer cases diagnosed in Australia has nearly doubled over the last two decades, from approximately 88,000 in 2000 to an estimated 169,000 in 2024. That number is projected to surpass 200,000 by 2034.
The Cancer Council reports that almost one in two Australian men and women will be diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85. A large portion of this increase is due to population growth and ageing—cancer rates are highest in those aged 85–89 years. With people living longer and cancer treatment outcomes improving, more Australians are not only surviving cancer but living with the long-term effects of treatment.
Imagine this…
You’ve been through months of chemotherapy. Your skin is dry. Your body is tired. And your spirit feels fragile. You finally work up the courage to step into a spa, hoping for a moment of peace, a glimmer of normalcy, a reminder of who you were before all this. But instead of a warm welcome, you’re told they can’t treat you, that it’s too risky. Cancer patients aren’t safe for facials.
You leave feeling worse than when you arrived.
This heartbreaking moment plays out far too often. For years, skin professionals have been taught to say no. Not out of cruelty, but out of fear. Fear of harming someone. Fear of doing the wrong thing. Fear of not knowing what’s safe.
But oncology aesthetics is not about curing cancer. It’s about showing up. It’s about creating a safe, sacred space where clients in treatment or recovery feel human again, where every touch is guided by understanding, where care is customised, intentional and deeply healing.
With the proper training and products, facials can still be safe, soothing, and incredibly healing.
A Growing Need for Oncology-Aware Beauty Professionals
For those living with cancer, the journey is often long, emotional, and physically taxing. Treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy don’t just take a toll on the body—they dramatically impact the skin. Clients may experience dryness, flaking, inflammation, rashes, pigmentation, thinning skin, and increased sensitivity. In many cases, their skin is fragile and reactive to common ingredients and standard protocols. Unfortunately, traditional beauty services aren’t always designed with these changes in mind. Without specific training, beauty therapists may unintentionally cause harm or discomfort, even with the best intentions. That’s why oncology aesthetics is no longer optional—it’s essential.
Oncology-trained skin therapists are equipped to safely and compassionately treat clients during and after cancer therapy. These professionals understand not only the science of cancer and its treatments, but also the emotional weight that clients often carry. They create a safe, nurturing space where skin health, comfort, and human connection take centre stage.
And that’s where two remarkable women step in.
Christine Clinton and Joanne Berry: Rewriting the Story
Christine Clinton and Joanne Berry are changing the landscape of beauty and wellness for clients living with cancer. With more than six decades of combined experience, they’ve made it their mission to ensure no one is turned away from care when they need it most.
Christine has spent over 35 years working globally in the wellness industry. She’s a practitioner, educator and the founder of Clinton Cancer Care and Wellness for Life. Her programs don’t just teach therapists what to avoid; they show them how to truly support clients going through cancer with customised treatments, deep compassion and thoughtful touch.
Her award-winning oncology education combines skincare, massage, lymphatic techniques, and energy work, empowering professionals to care for individuals with complex needs.
Joanne, a beloved spa educator and founder of the Wellness Education Hub, brings another layer to this partnership. With a career spanning luxury spa brands, international training, and an unwavering passion for therapist development, Joanne’s leadership has helped reshape the industry’s approach to wellness. She was recognised as American Spa’s Educator and Trainer of the.
Together, Christine and Joanne are unstoppable.
In 2024, they formalised their collaboration with the launch of the Oncology Skin Specialist Program in partnership with Circadia Skincare, a brand known for science-led innovation and its commitment to supporting professionals in delivering real, gentle results.
A Program with Purpose
Now available to Australian therapists, this hybrid training is redefining what is possible in professional skincare. The program equips beauty therapists with the education, protocols and empathy to safely treat clients affected by cancer, both during and after treatment.
The curriculum includes:
• Understanding how cancer affects the body and skin
• Navigating the effects of chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and immunotherapy
• Oncology-safe skincare and ingredient awareness
• Customised facial and body protocols for compromised skin
• Emotional support and holistic wellness practices
Participants begin with online theory at their own pace, then join an optional hands-on, in-person training to build confidence and skill in delivering this specialised care. It’s not just about adapting facials; it’s about human connection.
More Than Skin Deep
Cancer doesn’t just change the body. It changes identity. And when a client enters your clinic mid-treatment, they aren’t just looking for a product, they’re looking for peace. They want to feel safe. They want to be touched gently. They want to feel normal.
A caring cleanse can feel like being seen. A quiet moment in a treatment room can feel like medicine. And for many, your hands may be the first kind and comforting touch they’ve received in a long time.
“Imagine walking into your treatment room knowing you have the skills to care for someone’s compromised skin and to offer them comfort, hope, and healing during one of the most challenging times in their life,” Christine says.
“This program is more than just a certification; it’s a calling. It’s your opportunity to make a profound impact, one client at a time.”
Looking Ahead
Christine Clinton and Joanne Berry will be keynote speakers at Circadia Elevate Australia on August 16, 2025, held at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park. They’ll share their insights, stories, and vision with Australian professionals ready to elevate their practice into something more potent than just treatment - connection.
This is our moment to lead with empathy. To say yes when others say no. To welcome clients when they feel most alone. And to turn our industry into a space that heals not just the skin, but the soul.
With Christine, Joanne and Circadia lighting the path forward, we can all be part of something extraordinary.
Because in the end, beauty is not just what we do, it’s how we make people feel.
That’s why the Oncology Skin Specialist Program matters. It’s not about what we can’t do—it’s about what we can. We can support, soothe, and strengthen. We can be a gentle, healing presence. We can help people feel beautiful again, inside and out.
@christine.a.clinton @jojoberrywellness
Joanne Berry and Christine Clinton
“Less Is More”: Why Clinicians Are Turning to Non-Invasive Technology for Natural Facial Rejuvenation
The aesthetics industry has long followed the rhythm of reinvention, but in 2025, the tune is distinctly non-invasive. The past year has seen a steady shift away from high-intervention procedures toward gentler, more natural-looking approaches—particularly in the facial rejuvenation space. And now, a new device-led category is earning its place in clinic treatment menus: non-invasive facial muscle stimulation.
Among the standout devices in this space is EMFACE®, a registered medical device that recently surpassed one million treatments globally—a milestone that reflects not only the popularity of the platform but the growing demand for alternatives to traditional injectable treatments.
Over the last decade, consumer preferences have evolved significantly. While once dominated by the pursuit of perfection through injectables and surgery, today’s aesthetic landscape is increasingly focused on subtle, maintenancebased interventions.
Therapists, clinic owners and nurses are seeing a rise in patients who are less interested in freezing or filling and more interested in supporting what they already have. Enter EMFACE®: a device that uses synchronised radiofrequency (RF) and High-Intensity Facial Electrical Stimulation (HIFES™) to support facial muscle tone and local circulation—all without the need for needles or downtime.
“Patients today are savvy,” says Gareth Pepper, Director ANZ at BTL Aesthetics. “They’re looking for outcomes that feel natural and fit within a broader skin health routine. EMFACE® has really resonated with this audience, particularly those who want to support their facial structure without altering their expressions.”
For therapists and nurses operating in an increasingly competitive space, EMFACE® represents more than just a new modality—it’s a tool that integrates seamlessly into existing facial treatment programs. With sessions typically completed in under 30 minutes and no downtime reported for most patients (although individual experiences vary), it allows for both standalone services and combined protocols.
EMFACE® is listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG 393998 and 394105) for local muscle stimulation, local tissue heating, increased local blood circulation, and strengthening of facial muscles.
In a recent product evolution, BTL Aesthetics introduced the EMFACE® Eye Applicators, designed to address the periorbital region. The applicators support local muscle stimulation and increased local circulation in the under-eye area, offering practitioners an additional option within a completely needle-free facial protocol.
One of the most important distinctions when it comes to EMFACE® is its foundation in clinical research. According to the manufacturer, more than 17 peer-reviewed studies (available on request) support the technology. Treatments must be delivered by qualified healthcare professionals in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and within the scope of practice for each provider.
A growing number of high-profile personalities have publicly shared their use of EMFACE®, including Alicia Silverstone, Bella Thorne, and Jennifer Love Hewitt—reflecting a shift toward visible-yet-subtle outcomes. But while celebrity endorsements might help raise awareness, the real momentum is coming from inside the treatment room. For clinic owners, therapists, and nurses, EMFACE® and its new undereye extension reflect a broader trend worth watching: the shift toward noninvasive, results-focused treatments that complement the body’s natural processes. While not a replacement for every modality, these technologies offer a compelling option for patients seeking minimal disruption, preventative care, or alternatives to injectables.
The focus should remain on evidence-based practice, practitioner education, and ensuring that treatments are aligned with each client’s unique needs and aesthetic goals. In a time when the industry is evolving rapidly—and regulation is becoming increasingly strict—staying informed, compliant, and client-centred is more important than ever.
www.btlaesthetics.com.au/emface
Skin Boosters Launch in Australia and New Zealand
Rejuran ANZ has introduced Rejuran® Skin Boosters to the Australian and New Zealand markets—cosmetic injectables formulated with polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a DNA-based compound derived from salmon. Developed to support skin hydration and enhance the visible quality of the skin, the Rejuran® Skin Booster and Tone-Up Booster are suitable for areas affected by dryness, dullness, or uneven tone. The boosters can be administered via microinjections or through microneedling, depending on the treatment protocol and professional recommendation. Intended for use by trained professionals, these cosmetic products are designed to improve the appearance of the skin and may be integrated into a range of professional treatment protocols.
For more information, visit www.rejuran.com.au
The New Gel Mask Making Waves in Australian Clinics
A favourite among top aestheticians and skincare professionals in the US, CO2Lift has officially landed in Australia. This advanced gel mask uses carbon dioxide technology to deeply hydrate and visibly refresh the skin—no downtime required. Designed for in-clinic or at-home use, CO2Lift helps improve skin texture, smoothness, and radiance, making it a standout addition to any results-driven skincare routine. Suitable for use before or after cosmetic treatments, it delivers a cooling, soothing experience that supports visibly healthier-looking skin. Already gaining attention from celebrity facialists and red-carpet insiders, CO2Lift is now available locally through Beauty Technology. beautytechnology.com.au
Rejuran®
The Collagen Co Named Finalist in Clean + Conscious Awards 2025
Australian ingestible beauty brand The Collagen Co has been recognised in the 2025 Clean + Conscious Awards, with its Super Beauty Greens in Strawberry Kiwi named a finalist in the Best Superfood category. Judged on performance, ethics and sustainability, the Awards highlight the most conscious beauty and wellness products across Australia and New Zealand. Winners will be announced later this year. www.thecollagen.co
Ballarat Beauty Industry Comes Alive at the 5th Regional Beauty Long Lunch
The Regional Beauty Long Lunch made its dazzling 5th stop during May in Ballarat, bringing together beauty therapists, clinic owners, educators, and industry brands for a celebration of education, conversation, and connection in the heart of regional Victoria.
Hosted at the Goods Shed , the event was more than just a lunch — it was a movement. A day dedicated to elevating regional beauty professionals with live demonstrations, keynote insights, luxury networking experiences, and unforgettable moments that celebrated the talent thriving outside of Australia’s capital cities.
Leading the charge was a powerhouse line-up of keynote speakers, including: James Vivian / Kayla Zigic / Rachael Stevens / Emelly Simons / Karen Geiszler / Isabella Loneragan – With the fabulous Tamara Reid as MC, the day ran with warmth, energy and humour, seamlessly guiding guests through a packed and powerful program.
Guests were also treated to live treatment demonstrations, curated industry insights, premium networking, and an incredible lineup of event sponsors who helped bring the vision to life. A huge thank you to: Pink Diamond Sponsors: Circadia Skincare, Isabella Loneragan Skin, and Device Consulting
Diamond Sponsors:
Ultraderm, Elleebana, Meder Beauty Science, Cosmeceutical Solutions, Guiya Minerals, Cosmetic Tech, Kausmedi Tech, Smart Pay & Home of Aesthetics.
From heartfelt conversations to practical takeaways, the Regional Beauty Long Lunch in Ballarat was a resounding success — with many guests calling it “the most inspiring event attended all year.”
We’re thrilled to announce that the 6th Regional Beauty Long Lunch will take place on 26th October 2025 in McLaren Vale, South Australia — and it’s set to be another unmissable celebration of beauty industry brilliance in the regions. www.regionalbeautylonglunch.com
Tamara Reid Launches “Build It, Brand It & Bank It”
A 6-Week Personal Branding Course for the Professional Hair and Beauty Industry
Tamara Reid, Brand-Marketing Consultant to some of the industry’s most recognisable names, has launched her muchanticipated personal branding course, Build It, Brand It & Bank It. Designed specifically for skin therapists, salon owners, educators and emerging experts, the course provides a clear, actionable roadmap to visibility, monetisation, and positioning within the professional beauty space.
With a proven track record of building and scaling leading brands (including Beaute Industrie, the Aesthetic and Beauty Industry Council (ABIC), and Timely) Tamara brings first-hand insight into what it takes to grow from “best-kept secret” to booked-out educator, speaker, or thought leader. Delivered over six weeks, the online program includes 20 bite-sized video and audio lessons covering everything from brand identity and pricing to content creation, partnerships, and pitching to media. Students also gain access to a private online community, where Tamara offers ongoing insight, real-time feedback, and industry perspective.
“This course is for the therapist, the educator, the leader who’s been told they’re great — and now wants to get paid for it,” says Reid. “It’s the how-to for taking your personal brand from invisible to in-demand.” Build It, Brand It & Bank It is now available for enrolment at www.insideindustry.co/buildit-brandit-bankit
Meet Your Growth Partner Than Just Software
Phorest was born on the salon floor in Dublin, Ireland, 20 years ago. Since then, it has been shaped by hair and beauty professionals to ensure that the industry's trailblazers have the tools they need to thrive.
Phorest's all-in-one system allows you to elevate your guest experience and optimize your operations from booking to checkout. You'll generate more revenue with minimal effort while the passionate Phorest team is on your side from day one.
• INDUSTRY NEWS
Circadia Announces ELEVATE 2025: “My Time is Now” A Transformational Event for Skin Professionals.
Lycogel is back, new and improved!
Lycogel is the first breathable post-procedure colour cosmeceutical brand that combines coverage and skincare technology, specifically designed to deliver oxygen, hydration, and nutrition to the skin.
Sydney, Australia 5 June 2025 - Circadia Australia proudly announces its most anticipated event of the year: Circadia Elevate 2025, taking place on Saturday 16th August at the Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park in the prestigious Grand Ballroom. Set against the theme “My Time is Now,” this allday experience will bring together skin professionals from across the country for a day of education, inspiration, and celebration.
Elevate 2025 marks the next evolution of Circadia Connect, a full-day industry event designed to equip skincare professionals with the tools, knowledge, and mindset needed to thrive in today’s fast-moving beauty landscape.
An Unmissable Speaker Lineup
Attendees can expect a powerful program of education delivered by some of the most influential names in global and Australian aesthetics, including:
• Joanne Berry and Christine Clinton – Renowned international educators and leaders in the oncology aesthetics space
• Gay Wardle – ABIA Hall of Fame Inductee and multi-award-winning skin educator
• Dr. Bryan K. Williams (digital appearance) – Globally respected authority on service excellence
• Kris Astroff – Circadia Global Educator and 2024 Dermascope Magazine Educator of the Year
• Rachael Stevens – CEO of Circadia Australia, industry mentor and advocate for professional skincare success
• Savannah Grizzaffe – Circadia Global Educator and Mixology Mastermind celebrated for her expertise in ingredient knowledge, treatment mixology and innovation
• Melissa Hodgkinson – Circadia Australia’s National Sales & Training Manager, bringing her signature energy and real-world insights on business growth, sales strategy and team education
Together, these speakers will explore cutting-edge skin science, business growth strategies, ingredient innovations, and holistic care all with a focus on delivering exceptional client results and building successful clinics.
Tickets Now Available:
Early Bird – Education Only: $199 (Valued at $299)
Full access to the Education Day. This is a one-day opportunity to learn, connect, and celebrate with your peers — and take your career to the next level.
Tickets available now at: www.events.humanitix.com/circadia-elevate-2025
Originally created for medical aesthetics field, Lycogel boasts a revolutionary combination of active ingredients and unique technologies that optimally support healing, reduce downtime, and provide immediate and long-lasting coverage following aesthetic procedures.
Quality has always been Lycogel’s foundation, so during a brief pause in the market, Lycogel have taken the time to improve the two core technologies integral to every Lycogel product; the Designer Gel Base and the LYCO Complex. Together, these unique technologies work in synergy to create a breathable second skin that optimally supports the skin’s health, whilst providing a superior on-skin feel that must be experienced to be believed.
The Designer Gel Base: From the first application of Lycogel, users will immediately appreciate the unique on-skin experience, that is only made possible with the Designer Gel Base.
The Designer Gel Base forms an oxygen permeable matrix that allows the skin to breathe, to support healing and reduce downtime immediately following aesthetic procedures. This technology has been further improved to adhere to the skin more closely, delivering longer lasting results that are transfer and water resistant, as well as mineral based, broad-spectrum SPF30 sun protection. And as part of the re-formulation, a little goes an even longer way so you can still achieve that same long-lasting, flawless finish, with even less product than before.
The LYCO Complex: Fundamentally, skin needs oxygen, hydration, and nutrients to remain in optimal condition. The LYCO Complex is a powerful combination of three plant-based ingredients, each specifically chosen for their ability to supplement the skin with these essential elements.
The LYCO Complex has been upgraded to be even more powerful and clean, featuring specialised, naturally derived ingredients that are vegan and gluten free.
The LYCO Complex supports cellular function and the natural microbiome of skin, hydrates the skin at multiple levels whilst reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and minimises the harmful effects of oxidative stress.
A Lycogel look for every moment: Lycogel was originally created to meet the specific needs of the post-procedure patient, however, when patients continued using Lycogel after their recovery, it became apparent Lycogel’s appeal extends well beyond the realm of post-procedure care.
Today, Lycogel has the perfect look for every moment, lifestyle, and skin condition, delivering essential oxygen, hydration, and nutrients in two versatile products: Breathable Camouflage and Breathable Tint.
Lycogel have partnered with Monesthetica, a new aesthetic distribution company, to re-launch Lycogel in Australia.
Monesthetica have a deep appreciation of Lycogel’s clinical origins and are introducing new ways of working with Lycogel that strengthen its core identity as a clinic-exclusive, professional-led cosmeceutical brand that offers reliable and superior coverage.
www.monesthetica.com.au
Why Your Consultation Might Be Missing
“Let’s be honest—most of us weren’t taught how to run a truly effective skin consultation”, says Lia Trebilcock - Founder, Skin Education International Lia goes on to explain… We were taught protocols. We were taught how to cleanse, treat, mask, and recommend. But the skill that quietly underpins every successful treatment plan— the ability to consult with clarity and confidence— often gets left behind.
And yet, it’s the part of the treatment journey that holds the most potential.
the Mark
Because consultations aren’t just informationgathering moments. They’re trust-building ones. They’re where we learn the story behind the skin, the reasons clients feel stuck, frustrated, or unsure. And it’s in those early few minutes—before you touch their face, before you mention a product—that the foundation of transformation is laid. Here’s what I believe:
A powerful consultation isn’t built on a clipboard. It’s built on connection.
It’s built when we ditch the lengthy intake forms and start having real conversations.
When we ask better questions like, “Tell me about your skin,” instead of “What skin type are you?”
When we read body language as much as skin texture. And when we stop trying to fix everything in that first 10 minutes—and start listening instead.
Over the last two decades, I’ve had the privilege of working with thousands of skin therapists. And the biggest shifts I’ve seen haven’t come from new machines or better marketing—they’ve come from better consultations.
When a therapist learns how to ask the right questions—when to speak and when to pause—they begin to uncover what I call the three pillars: Skin Type, Primary Concern, and Current Program.
These three areas guide everything. But only if you know how to explore them properly.
It’s also important to know when not to educate. The consultation chair is not the place for product lectures or correcting habits. It’s the space to make your client feel safe enough to tell you the truth—so you can meet them where they are and lead them forward.
And underneath it all, we must understand why the skin behaves the way it does.
From the moment a stem cell forms, to the release of EFA’s at the surface, our skin is a living communication system. Learn to read it—and you’ll never guess your way through a treatment plan again.
So, if you’ve ever felt unsure mid-consultation… if you’ve sensed your client closing off… or if you simply want to move from routine to real results—this is where you begin.
Understanding the skin is one thing. Understanding the person in the skin?
That’s where everything changes. @skin_education_international_
The TGA’s Latest Compliance Campaign Could Affect You, Even If You Don’t Offer Injectables
Recent news update from the Aesthetic and Beauty Industry Council (ABIC) share the new national compliance campaign, focused on the advertising of cosmetic injectables.
Led by the Targeted Compliance Unit (TCU) within the Regulatory Compliance Branch, the campaign will begin by contacting 50 businesses and individuals who have been reported for potential advertising breaches. Because the TGA’s compliance rules apply to any business that promotes or implies access to prescription only cosmetic products. That means even if you’re a salon or spa that simply rents a room to a nurse or partners with a prescriber, you can still be held responsible for advertising breaches under your brand or platform.
What you need to know:
1. Do not advertise prescription only substances or biologicals. These include botulinum toxin, hyaluronic acid, and any product listed under Schedule 4 of the Poisons Standard.
2. Focus on the service, not the product
Promote the overall cosmetic or aesthetic service without referencing the therapeutic good used to deliver it.
3. Avoid substitute terms, acronyms or nicknames
Terms like “anti-wrinkle injections” or “lip flips,” even without brand names, are still considered promotional and are not permitted.
4. Always check the rules before referencing a therapeutic good. Therapeutic goods that contain S4 ingredients cannot be mentioned in public-facing marketing.
5. Educational content must be factual and balanced. Content aimed at educating consumers must not promote outcomes. It must clearly present risks and benefits.
6. Before-and-after photos are not always allowed.
If a result implies the use of a prescription only substance, that imagery may be considered a breach.
7. Booking systems must not promote S4 goods or pricing. If your online booking platform includes references to injectables or prices, it may be classified as an ad.
8. Ensure all social media content, past and present, is compliant. Historic posts are still considered public advertising and must be reviewed and amended if necessary.
9. Your business name must not refer to S4 goods
Names or branding that imply the availability of prescription products are not permitted.
If unsure, seek professional guidance. Responsibility rests with the advertiser. Use official TGA guidance, visit the TGA website www.tga.gov.au or contact ABIC for support www.theabic.org.au
Empower Your Patients to Rewrite Their Skin’s
Story .
As a skin professional you understand the profound impact that skin and hair concerns can have on your clients’ lives. You see firsthand how these issues can erode self-confidence and affect overall wellbeing.
Keep reading for the real stories of the patients whose histories have been rewritten with Dermapen™. And discover how to not only successfully rejuvenate their lines and wrinkles, pigmentation, scars, rosacea or acne but also transform the way your patients feel about themselves.
Transformation Starts with Dermapen Microneedling
Microneedling with the Dermapen 4™ is a game-changer in skin rejuvenation, improving the appearance of acne, scars, wrinkles, pigmentation, rosacea, and so much more. This minimally invasive yet highly effective procedure sparks the skin’s natural healing process, delivering remarkable results with little to no downtime.
But the magic of Dermapen™ microneedling doesn’t stop when your patients leave your clinic. It triggers the production of new growth factors, collagen, and elastin, resulting in a younger-looking complexion. Remarkably, this rejuvenation process can continue for up to 24 months.
Maximise Microneedling Results with the Right Skincare Pairing
To achieve a life-changing transformation, using the right skincare products is crucial. The micro-injuries act as channels, allowing up to 80% more active ingredients to penetrate the skin, delivering a customised result. This is why you should always use Dp Dermaceuticals™ during a Dermapen 4™ procedure—they are the only skincare collection specifically developed for microneedling.
This synergistic relationship between needling and active skincare is the true secret behind getting your patients the most stunning transformations that can literally change lives for the better.
This was the case for Sami, a 17-year-old from Sydney, who struggled with severe acne.
“It has been about two months since my second Dermapen Treatment, and the results are so visible and amazing. All the acne has completely disappeared. It is no longer bumpy or inflamed, and it looks and feels great. The results of my treatments have made me feel so much more confident in my own skin and how I feel about myself. I could not be happier.”
Next-Level Hair Transformations for Next-Level Confidence
And it’s not just about skin. Hair is a fundamental part of our identity, and its loss can deeply affect one’s self-esteem and emotional well-being. Hair restoration isn’t just about regrowth—it’s about rediscovering oneself. Our science-backed hair loss solutions, including the revolutionary EXO-GROW Collection™, empower individuals to feel like themselves again, reclaiming their hair, identity and confidence.
Natali Kelly (UK) shared, “My clients love that it is super natural, stimulating the body’s own regenerative capabilities, which can awaken sleepy dormant follicles and overall make healthy hair thicker and shinier.”
Dr Emal Saba (New Zealand) recounted, “There are multiple success stories that I can describe. However, the one that stands out is the treatment I did for a man in his 40s, with sudden-onset Alopecia. Two weeks after the first treatment, the client was assessed and he reported that his hair loss was minimised.”
Empower Clients with Tools for Ongoing Skin Transformation
What many don’t realise is that there are steps patients can take to enhance and accelerate their rejuvenation results by supporting their skin before, during, and after a procedure. By incorporating home boosters like Dermapen HOME™ and the Dp Dermaceuticals L.E.D.™ mask, your patients can achieve faster and more dramatic transformations.
Ready to Transform Lives?
Every day, you have the opportunity to make a profound impact on your clients’ lives. By offering Dermapen Treatments™, you can provide more than just a skin and hair care solution—it’s a path to renewed confidence and self-assurance. This is the kind of transformation that can create a buzz around your clinic, bringing in new clients eager to experience similar results.
In fact, by the time you have used the first box of products included in the ESSENTIAL STARTER KIT you will have covered your entire initial investment. And the potential grows from there. Dermapen 4™ offers outstanding return on investment with a 7-year warranty and total piece of mind.
Aesthetic Business Masters Sydney: Where Strategy Meets Soul!
The Aesthetic Business Masters Summit in Melbourne, Sydney and Perth has firmly cemented its status as a premier event for aesthetic professionals.
Brought to life by the dynamic vision of Nicole Montgomery and Alfie Lombardo, this single-day summit wasn’t just a business conference; it was a masterclass in strategy, leadership, and transformation. Designed for doctors, clinic owners, cosmetic nurses, dermal therapists, and brand leaders serious about scaling their businesses, the event proved that success in aesthetics is as much about purpose and people as it is about profit.
An elevated experience from the start
The summit kicked off with a pre-event dinner at Martinez Sydney for speakers and sponsors — a relaxed and elegant affair that gave everyone a chance to connect, share stories, and enjoy an incredible meal before the big day.
Held at the Intercontinental Sydney, the main event began bright and early on Friday morning, with guests welcomed by the evercharismatic MC Grazina Fechner. Grazina brought energy, humour, and genuine warmth to the stage, setting the tone for a day of inspiration and education.
A powerhouse program of insight and expertise
Neil Osborne brought structure to client communication with his “33-1 Client Framework,” offering a practical tool to boost business performance.
The agenda was packed with industry-leading speakers, each bringing a unique perspective on business, marketing, clinical practice, and leadership in the aesthetics space.
Safwan Chowdhury, a digital marketing strategist with experience across major global brands, shared cutting-edge insights into performance-driven campaigns that translate into real revenue growth.
Iola Ciavarra gave attendees a fresh take on retail strategy.
Dr Kenneth Brito delivered an insightful session on integrating products with both surgical and non-surgical treatments — a key takeaway for those looking to blend modalities for better patient outcomes.
Telisa Larken proved that Instagram isn’t just a highlight reel — it’s a legitimate revenue channel when used right. Her talk, From Posts to Profits, was especially resonant with injectors navigating the digital space.
After a morning tea break, Jade Spehr dived into business optimisation with strategies to uncover hidden profit potential, followed by Isabella Loneragan, who shared how to maximise profits while reclaiming precious time. Jacinta King reminded us of the power of knowing your numbers, and Tatjana Jovanovski took a holistic approach to skin — and the psychology of consultation — using motivational interviewing techniques.
Gay Wardle closed the pre-lunch sessions with her signature wisdom on mastering client consultations, reminding us all that long-term success is rooted in meaningful relationships and trust.
After a networking lunch, Lizzy Boots hosted an impactful session on employee retention, exploring what truly drives team loyalty in the aesthetics industry. Robin Curran spoke about compliance in action and with humour and love was an absolute highlight delving into key legislation and the road forward.
The PR Panel consisting of our very own Linda Woodhead , ceo of mocha group- the official media partner, alongside industry heavyweights in media and PR, together they unlocked the power of media through press, pixels and profits!
The beautifully talented Tara Shaw spoke about treatment plans and memberships: The business model every clinic needs which served as a perfect ending to the comprehensive day.
Attendees were treated to beautiful gift bags as a token of thanks, before wrapping up the day with a stylish Networking Soirée. Set against the sparkling backdrop of Vivid Sydney, this final gathering offered a chance to reflect, connect, and celebrate — drinks in hand, laughter in the air.
Redefining the industry standard
What makes the Aesthetic Business Masters Summit stand out is not just the calibre of speakers or the professional polish of the event, but its soul. This summit doesn’t just focus on revenue and metrics — it puts heart, health, and humanity at the centre.
Nicole Montgomery and Alfi Lombardo have created more than a conference — they’ve sparked a movement. One that’s all about elevating standards, redefining success, and empowering professionals to grow with purpose. For many, it was a chance to feel seen, to learn something powerful, and to return to their businesses not just with notes, but with renewed energy and vision.
The Aesthetic Business Masters Summit is not just an event — it’s an experience. And for those lucky enough to attend, it’s clear: the future of aesthetics is bright, connected, and full of heart.
Join Us At Beauty Expo Australia!
Beauty Expo Australia unites the beauty industry in the country’s largest celebration of all things beauty over one weekend. Be inspired with this unparalleled opportunity for connection and inspiration with a community of like-minded professionals. Join us at the ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre Darling Harbour, Saturday 16 August 9am – 5pm to Sunday 17 August 9am – 5pm.
It’s important now more than ever that you are focusing on you and enhancing your beauty knowledge. Staying on top of the latest trends, procedures, products and knowledge is key for making this year a year of success.
TOP REASONS TO ATTEND BEAUTY EXPO 2025
SPOTLIGHTS
With a unique theme each year, Spotlight is a space dedicated to showcasing a mix of new and original Beauty Expo brands focused on specific trends, themes, and attributes within the industry. In 2025, we are shining a spotlight on Wellness and K-beauty.
WELLNESS
Experience the new Wellness Spotlight at Beauty Expo Australia, a dedicated zone where beauty meets holistic living. Explore emerging wellness trends, discover innovative lifestyle solutions, and engage with experts shaping the future of self-care.
K-BEAUTY
K-Beauty zone is a dedicated space to discover innovative Korean skincare and cosmetic brands through live demonstrations and immersive product experiences. Dive into the latest trends, textures, and techniques that are shaping the future of beauty.
FACE2FACE MAKEUP AWARDS
The Face2Face Makeup Awards reward extraordinary makeup artists for their craft, creativity and passion. Created to be embraced by artists as a supportive and inclusive space to put their skills under the pressure of a competition, the Awards provide a platform to grow as an artist at any level. This is the must-enter competition for any makeup artist serious about their career and is back for the first time in four years. Internationally recognised, multi-award-winning makeup artist Isabelle De Vries is this year’s Creative Director. She challenges trends and stereotypes of beauty and has gained recognition from the industry’s elite. This year’s categories include Bridal Makeup – A Timeless Romance, Creative Makeup (Live) – Under The Ocean, Beauty Editorial – Ethereal Beauty, and Fashion Editorial – Trend Prediction.
THE AUSTRALIAN BEAUTY & AESTHETICS CONFERENCE
Over 60 sessions of immersive education, providing cutting edge insights, innovations and skills for your business and team. The Australian Beauty & Aesthetic Conference (ABAC) is 2 days of feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, case studies and educational sessions tailored around our three stages; the Business of Beauty, Wellness and Dermal Health, and Art of Aesthetics. A platform to connect and meet with thought leaders and like-minded beauty professionals, the Australian Beauty and Aesthetics Conference allows you the flexibility to curate your own program over either 1 or 2 days, based on your personal interest and business needs.
180+ LEADING BRANDS
Shop from Australia’s largest collection of professional beauty brands and products across 32 categories, including; Organic Spa, Diramu Skincare, Aesthetic Consults, Intraceuticals, LashV, Murad, Dermapenworldand many more.
THE BUSINESS COUCH
Need some one-on-one time with the industry experts? Book a free half hour consultation with our line-up of specialists in Salon Management, Sales and Marketing, Training & Development on the Business Couch. This is incredible opportunity to help push your business to the next level.
BEAUTY LIVE
Our Beauty Live demonstration area is your must-see space to learn more about current trends in the Beauty industry. Showcasing demonstrations from industry professionals in brows, skincare, lashes, make-up and so much more! This is your perfect opportunity to see upclose how the latest products work in action, and to ask any questions you may have.
LASH V COMPETITION
The Lash Pro and Brow Pro Championships at Beauty Expo Australia 2025 will feature some of the industry’s most skilled lash and brow artists competing live in the final on 17 August. This showcase gives attendees an exclusive opportunity to see these experts demonstrate the creativity and techniques shaping today’s lash and brow trends. For more information on the competition or to enter the competition. https://www.beautyexpoaustralia.com.au/en-gb/ what-is-on/LashV.html
TICKET OPTIONS
Whether you want to attend all sessions or just meet our incredible brands, we have a ticket option to suit you, make the most of booking your tickets early with our early bird rates.
To book your tickets, view exhibitor listing, see all sessions and competition info for Beauty Expo, please visit:https://www.beautyexpoaustralia.com.au
Building Confidence Through Skin.
By Louise May
Danika Page’s journey began at just seven years old with her own “Tweetie Bird Salon,” offering hair and nail services to family members. Her passion for beauty led her to become a qualified makeup artist and hairstylist, graduating from Media Makeup and launching her own business.
She spent weekends doing event makeup and quickly built a large, loyal clientele. While she loved helping others feel good through hair and makeup, she noticed clients often asked about their skin and wished they could achieve the same confidence without makeup. Danika wanted to help them feel good in their skin every day.
That desire became even more important when working with brides who wanted clear skin for their wedding day. After struggling to find a clinic that provided the level of care and attention to detail she expected for her clients, and having experienced a lifelong battle with eczema herself, Danika began researching globally accredited skin courses. She qualified in skin, then deepened her knowledge by studying skin anatomy and individual conditions in detail, building tailored treatment plans based on each client’s needs and feedback.
In August 2020, she opened Clear Complexions in Mawson Lakes, South Australia, offering hair, makeup, and facials while renting out her two other treatment rooms and a makeup space. By December that year, she hired her first team member. A second facial room opened in July 2021, followed by a third in July 2022. Today, Clear Complexions is a team of five skin specialists, all trained in the Clear Complexion way. They share Danika’s passion for learning and results, and work together to provide the same high level of personalised care the business was built on. Every decision is now made as a team, with a shared commitment to helping clients achieve their ultimate skin goals
Mocha Beauty Editor Louise May chats with Danika...
You’ve recently relocated Clear Complexions into a beautiful new space. What was the motivation behind the move?
When I first opened my shop front, I dreamed of having all three rooms booked out, and in just four years that dream became reality. We outgrew our space, our books were booked to capacity, and we needed more rooms, a bigger waiting area, and more storage. We had a dream of wanting a luxury spa experience for our clients. We had so many ideas over time that we wanted to bring to life. We found the perfect space, doubled in size, found our dream location under the new Crowne Plaza, just a street over from our first salon - making it convenient for the large amount of our clients who loved our location, Mawson Lakes. We now have six treatment rooms, and two rooms can be converted into a double room for couples, friends, etc. We brought the basics from our old shop and elevated them to enhance the treatment experience - light dimming, temperature control in each room, new beds for client comfort, little touches and details from candles, diffusers, larger rooms, and a bigger desk and waiting area. Every little detail was thought about to enhance our clients’ experience.
Clear Complexion is known for delivering real, visible results. What does a ‘results-driven’ philosophy mean to you? It’s all about our clients: what they want to achieve and their budget. We understand all the fundamentals of skin health, and it’s our job to help guide them through the process. It’s a team effort for us, as therapists we have all the tools to achieve this, medical-grade treatments, skin histology knowledge, and cosmedicial skincare. Skin is our passion; we just need our client’s commitment and trust in the process.
It’s not an overnight fix, so it’s our job to understand our clients’ individual needs and work with them, guiding them through every step. Our clients trust us, word of mouth has built a lot of trust in the community, and our before and after images and client testimonials speak for themselves.
O COSMEDICS and Dermapen are hero offerings in your clinic. What made you choose these specific brands, and how do they complement your treatment approach?
It’s hard to say, as there are so many reasons we chose O COSMEDICS. They are Australian owned, backed by science, and use encapsulated ingredients that reach every layer of the skin, helping us treat our clients’ skin conditions. O COSMEDICS uses the purest combination of medical-grade ingredients, free from all the nasties that are found to cause so many skin issues, such as parabens, harsh preservatives, sulfates, petrochemicals, plastic microbeads, harsh fragrances, and colors. These ingredients can cause so much irritation, and we are constantly reversing the damage they cause. We can provide clients with daily relief with O COSMEDICS huge range of products, helping us treat every client’s concerns.
When consulting with our clients, we give them a personalised resultsdriven routine that will restore their skin’s health.
O COSMEDICS has a huge range of hydrators, sunscreens, and cleansers; every product you could need, O COSMEDICS has it.
We are also immensely supported by O COSMEDICS; our BDMs provide constant training, and O COSMEDICS has a whole education hub to keep us trained to the highest level, we didn’t realise how much support we would get when we choose O COSMEDICS, we are obsessed with everything O. When intensively researching for a skin needling device, I decided that Dermapen was the best device on the market, and I wasn’t wrong. In the salon, we see unmatched results transforming acne, scarring, aging, pigmentation, eczema, and rosacea. We love all the benefits of the DP Dermaceuticals serums and Meso-Glides that help us tailor each treatment to our clients’ individual needs. We are changing lives with Dermapen. In the salon, we have reversed so many skin conditions some clients have struggled with their whole lives.
Danika Page
With a team so passionate and dedicated, how do you cultivate a culture of excellence and ongoing growth within the clinic?
When hiring, we run staff through extensive training in client care, policies, and procedures to ensure each staff member offers the same clear complexion standards we’ve built over the years. We’ve worked so hard on our policies and procedures because we want to uphold the reason we started, which is to help our clients with their concerns. It takes more than knowledge; it’s also about nurturing them through the process at their pace. Our client care is our main priority, and every client is different. Our team holds regular meetings to ensure all salon standards meet the clients’ needs. Regular training often includes redoing training to absorb extra knowledge.
Skin health is at the core of what you do. What’s your personal belief around long-term skin maintenance and education for clients?
It’s about us, as therapists, using our knowledge to help our clients. We know skin; we pay attention to what works for all skin types. As a team, we have learned so much over the years. We continue to share client stories and give each other advice on what works and what doesn’t for various skin types. Having that knowledge for every skin type greatly helps our results because we have extensive client experience with each skin concern.
Understanding that having knowledge isn’t everything, every client is different. That’s why we start with an extensive consultation that dives deep into their skin concerns, discussing what’s bothering them most, their routines, health, and contradictions. We go deeper than surface level. We hold their hand through the entire journey and all phases of their skin journey. We believe it’s about us, as therapists, recommending the right treatments and products for their skin type, considering what they can financially maintain, and which skincare routine will work best for their lifestyle. Our clients’ skin is constantly going through different stages, and we make sure to provide them with the knowledge they need to stay committed. We don’t push or pressure our clients; we just work with them to maintain their skin health. We form incredible lifelong bonds. Some clients come in every 4, 6, or 8 weeks, while others come for a freshen-up, but they always leave feeling relaxed and better in their own skin and that’s what we want.
How has the Clear Complexions brand built and maintained such a trusted reputation in what can be a saturated industry?
Honestly, word of mouth is so powerful, and we give every client our all. We’ve built trust with our clients; they see their results and walk away
feeling lighter and fresher. Our clients are walking advertisements. When we provide great service, they rave about us. Our clients get compliments on their skin; friends and family notice when their skin clears up, and the word just spreads. It’s such a wholesome job because we do it to help people and give them a moment of peace. It’s so much more than a facial; we build their confidence. They can relax and talk to us. Plus, every facial, except needling comes with a relaxing massage that we have perfected over the years—it’s our clients’ favorite part.
People have tried other clinics but have found they don’t get that relaxing massage or felt they were just being over sold a bunch of things but mainly the client care was awful.
So, based on what our clients have said, I’d say our client care and client experience and massage set us apart in the industry. 80% of our monthly clientele are returning clients, so we are truly blessed to have the community of clients that we do.
What would you say sets Clear Complexions apart most in terms of client outcomes and overall experience?
Our passion. We love skin. We love helping our clients. We love learning more to help our clients; we care about their results. We document all their photos and treatment responses and keep a close eye on their results it’s a whole journey that we take together and with our incredible team dedicated to their clients we have a beautiful clear complexion community. We simply offer results driven treatments whilst creating a moment of relaxation with a team who cares.
@clear_complexion_facials
@inskincosmedics
@ocosmedics
@dermapenworld
From Beauty to Brilliance: Rikki Bruxner’s Journey in Skin and Aesthetics
By Louise May
Rikki Bruxner’s journey into skin and aesthetics began over 20 years ago when she completed her diploma of Beauty therapy. She spent her first years as a qualified beauty therapist working in some of Australia’s leading day spas and medi-clinics which gave her a strong foundation in both holistic and clinical skin care.
Driven by a desire to expand her knowledge and perform more advanced treatments, Rikki went on to complete her Bachelor of Nursing and worked under a leading cosmetic physician. After working extensively across the beauty and cosmetic industry, she founded Skin Forum - a space where results driven treatments are delivered with warmth, integrity and genuine care.
Editor of Mocha Beauty, Louise May, chats with Rikki about her industry journey and Skin Forum.
What inspired you to create Skin Forum, and what vision did you have when launching the clinic?
The vision for Skin Forum was born from recognising a clear gap in the industry. At the time, results-driven cosmetic treatments were only offered in clinical settings that lacked warmth and personal touch. On the other hand, beauty treatments were limited to day spas, which focused more on relaxation than real, lasting results. I wanted to build a true hybrid of the two... a space where you could relax, feel pampered, and still receive advanced, results-driven treatments. It was important to me that Skin Forum not only delivered real skin results but also offered an environment where every client feels genuinely welcomed, comfortable, and cared for from the moment they walk in.
With such an impressive background in both dermal therapy and cosmetic nursing, how have those experiences shaped the Skin Forum philosophy?
My background in both dermal therapy and cosmetic nursing has really shaped the way I approach skin and aging, and that’s had a big influence on the philosophy behind Skin Forum. Having a deep understanding of skin health, combined with a clinical knowledge of the aging process,
allows us to take a more holistic and long-term approach to treatment. We look at what the skin needs to age well, stay healthy, and truly glow over time. This means treating the skin at a cellular level, supporting its natural functions, and using advanced techniques that deliver real results without compromising its integrity.
At Skin Forum, our philosophy is heavily built around education, empowerment, and personalised care.
What do you believe truly sets Skin Forum apart from other advanced skin clinics on the Gold Coast?
What truly sets Skin Forum apart is the people behind it—our team. We invest heavily in staff education to ensure everyone is not only highly skilled but also up to date with the latest techniques and technologies. This commitment means our clients always receive the best, safest, and most effective treatments available.
As an owner-operator, I’m deeply involved in every part of the business, from staff training to client care. That hands-on approach ensures our values of honesty, personalised attention, and genuine care are felt in every interaction.
Above all, we’re focused on client satisfaction, not just the immediate results but how our clients feel throughout their experience with us. Creating a welcoming environment where people feel valued and supported is at the heart of everything we do.
Rikki Bruxner
What areas of skin health or cosmetic medicine are you most passionate about, and why?
I’m very passionate about the science behind skin health and cosmetic medicine. There’s something fascinating about how the skin works, its layers, how it repairs itself, and how it naturally changes as we age, and how we can support that natural process with both treatments and medical knowledge.
Skin Forum offers a curated mix of clinical skin treatments, what’s your approach when combining different modalities for long-term results?
I truly believe the best results come from combining different treatment modalities that work together to support both the skin’s surface and what lies beneath. That’s why we often pair our skin treatments with cosmetic procedures, ensuring not only the health of the skin itself but also the underlying structure is cared for.
We work closely between our clinical nursing team and skin therapists, cross-referring clients as needed so each treatment plan is tailored and comprehensive. By blending these modalities, we can deliver more balanced, long-lasting and more effective results.
You’ve built a team that shares your values, what qualities do you look for in the professionals who join Skin Forum?
When I’m looking for new team members at Skin Forum, it’s really about more than just skills and qualifications. I want people who contribute to a positive, uplifting culture because I know that energy flows through the whole clinic. A happy and supportive work environment isn’t just good for the team, it creates a space where clients feel comfortable, welcomed, and cared for from the moment they arrive. So, I look for professionals who are not only talented but also kind, passionate, and genuinely committed to making a difference for every person who walks through our doors.
Education seems to be a big part of your ethos; how do you keep clients informed and empowered about their skin journey?
Education is definitely a core part of how we work at Skin Forum. We spend a lot of time upfront creating detailed treatment plans and making sure our clients understand exactly what to expect at each step of their journey. Regularly reviewing progress photos with our clients is a big part of keeping them motivated and excited about the changes happening over time. We want every client to know from the very beginning that their skin journey is a process, and by setting clear expectations, they feel informed, supported, and confident throughout.
For us, it’s all about empowering clients with knowledge so they can take control of their skin health alongside us.
How do you stay ahead in such a fast-evolving industry, and how does that translate into the client experience at Skin Forum?
I regularly attend conferences, online webinars, and invest in extra learning to keep up with the latest advancements and best practices. Bringing this knowledge back to Skin Forum means our clients benefit from cutting-edge treatments and techniques delivered safely and effectively. It also means we can offer honest, up-to-date advice tailored to each person’s unique needs.
Looking ahead, what’s next for you and for Skin Forum? Any exciting plans or areas you’re expanding into?
To be honest, I’ve never really followed a strict business plan, I tend to pivot and evolve when it feels right. That approach has served me well so far, and it keeps things exciting.
While I’d love to expand Skin Forum into a third location one day, right now my focus is on refining and perfecting what we’ve already built. I want to make sure our existing clinics continue to deliver the highest standard of care and experience for our clients.
I’m always keeping an eye out for new treatments and technology that align with our philosophy, so while there’s no set roadmap, there’s always something on the horizon.
@skin_forum
Dr. Cosima Karlburger’s New Chapter in Bondi and Her Laser of Choice
By Nicole Montgomery
Sunshine, sea breeze, and a sense of serenity – it might sound like a holiday, but for Dr. Cosima Karlburger, it’s the backdrop of her brand-new purpose-built clinic in Bondi. As one of Australia’s most respected cosmetic physicians, Dr. Cosima has built a reputation for integrity, precision, and glowing results that speak for themselves.
With a career that bridges general medicine and cosmetic dermatology, she brings a depth of knowledge and patient-first philosophy that is increasingly rare in the fast-evolving aesthetics industry. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Cosima to talk about her journey, the vision for her beautiful new space, and why Aerolase has become her laser of choice.
Dr. Cosima, can you share a little about your journey into cosmetic medicine? What originally sparked your interest? My journey started in general medicine, where I was always fascinated by dermatology. Over time, I found myself drawn to the aesthetic space, where science and artistry meet. It was a way to merge my love of medicine with a passion for helping patients feel confident in their skin. As most people, I started small. I was offering skin consultations alongside my GP work, and slowly built a loyal client base. The turning point was realising how much of an impact small, non-invasive changes could make on someone’s wellbeing. That’s when I knew this was the path for me.
How has your background in general medicine shaped your approach in cosmetic practice?
It has truly been invaluable and shaped everything. Understanding systemic health allows me to look at the skin holistically. Aesthetic medicine isn’t just about appearance—it’s about function, inflammation, hormone imbalances, and so much more. My patients benefit from a medically sound, whole-person approach. For example, when assessing acne or pigmentation, I always consider underlying causes, not just surface symptoms.
What values have remained constant throughout your career?
I have 3 core values, integrity, safety, and education. I’m a big believer in never recommending anything to a patient that I wouldn’t consider for myself or a loved one. I stay committed to evidence-based practice and ensuring patients are fully informed.
Congratulations on your beautiful new clinic in Bondi! What was the vision behind creating a purpose-built space?
Thank you! This clinic has been a dream in the making. I wanted to create a peaceful, warm environment that reflects the natural, healthy results I strive for. It was important to have a clinical setting that felt welcoming and non-intimidating. Everything from the flow of the rooms to the natural light was carefully designed to put patients at ease.
What makes this clinic different from others?
We’ve built it from the ground up taking into account the patient journey. The layout, the aesthetics, the privacy—all considered. Patients can expect a truly personalised experience. It’s also fully equipped with the latest medical-grade technology, including my favourite laser, Aerolase.
As a leader in the field, how do you define success when it comes to patient outcomes?
For me, success is subtle yet significant. I love when patients say, “I feel like myself again.” It’s not about looking like someone else; it’s about feeling confident, refreshed, and aligned with your inner vitality.
Let’s talk about technology. Why did you choose Aerolase as a hero treatment in your clinic?
Aerolase stood out to me for its versatility, efficacy, and comfort. It’s an Nd:YAG laser that delivers energy in a super-short pulse, which means less heat and discomfort for patients. It’s safe across all skin tones, which is incredibly important in an inclusive practice. It’s also TGAlisted for a range of indications, including acne and skin rejuvenation.
What skin concerns do you treat most often with Aerolase?
Acne, rosacea, pigmentation, and signs of ageing like fine lines and skin laxity. It’s also amazing for stimulating collagen and improving overall skin tone. The Aerolase Neo Elite treats over 30 skin conditions and can be used all year round with minimal downtime, making it incredibly practical for busy patients.
Dr. Cosima
Karlburger
How does Aerolase differ from other lasers you’ve worked with in the past?
Most lasers either cause too much discomfort or require significant downtime. Aerolase is different—it uses a 650-microsecond pulse duration that bypasses the epidermis and delivers energy to the dermis quickly. This reduces heat and increases comfort for the client. It’s truly next-gen technology that’s both effective and elegant.
Do you have a favourite treatment protocol that includes Aerolase?
Yes! I love pairing Aerolase with medical-grade skincare and collagenstimulating treatments like microneedling. For acne, I often combine it with a topical routine tailored to the patient’s needs. The results are cumulative, and the skin just keeps getting better with time.
Can you share a patient story or transformation that was particularly meaningful for you involving Aerolase?
A teenage patient came in with cystic acne and very low self-esteem. Within a few sessions, we saw a remarkable reduction in inflammation. The real win? Watching their confidence grow. It reminded me how powerful skin health can be in shaping our self-perception.
With technology like Aerolase making such waves, how do you stay ahead of industry trends while staying grounded?
I attend global conferences, invest in continued education, and test every device myself before offering it. But most importantly, I listen to my patients. If something isn’t right for them, no trend or technology can justify its use.
What do you think the future holds for non-invasive skin health treatments?
We’re moving towards prevention, not correction. In this digital age, patients are more informed and are seeking treatments that support long-term skin health and natural looking results. Non-invasive options like lasers, regenerative treatments, and intelligent skincare will continue to grow in demand.
What does ethical aesthetics mean to you in a practical sense? It means putting patient welfare before profit. It’s about honest consultations, setting realistic expectations, and saying no when something isn’t in a patient’s best interest. It also means continual education to ensure best practice.
What advice would you give to new doctors entering the aesthetic world?
Start slow. Learn the foundations. Don’t chase trends—master the basics first. And always, always remember, less is more. Your reputation is built on trust and results, not volume.
If you had to choose a quote or mantra that sums up your approach to work and life, what would it be?
“Do no harm and do what you love.” That’s my guiding principle in everything I do.
Finally, what keeps you inspired in your practice? My patients. Every story, every transformation, keeps me motivated. I also love being part of an industry that merges science and beauty. It’s dynamic, challenging, and deeply fulfilling.
From her early days in general practice to the sleek hallways of her new Bondi clinic, Dr. Cosima Karlburger has remained a steadfast believer in subtle, powerful transformation. With Aerolase in her hands and a laser-focused (pun intended) approach to ethical skin health, her latest chapter is sure to be her most inspiring yet.
@drcosimamedispa
The Injex Difference
By Louise May
What started as a two-person venture between sisters Kate and Emma Taylor has grown into a thriving network of clinics across South-East Queensland. With backgrounds in beauty therapy and cosmetic nursing, the pair launched Injex Clinics with a clear purpose: to strip away the sales pressure often found in the industry and offer treatments that deliver real, meaningful results. While the business has evolved in size and technology, that original ethos of genuine care still runs through everything they do.
Mocha Beauty Editor Louise May chats with Kate about the Injex journey, what’s shaped the brand along the way, and how smart systems like Shortcuts Salon Software have helped keep the business connected, efficient, and client-focused, across every location.
Tell us about Injex Clinics. What was the inspiration behind starting the business, and how has it evolved since then?
We began as just my sister (Emma) and I. We had both worked in clinics in different capacities, she was a Cosmetic Nurse, I was a Beauty Therapist, and we didn’t love the pushy sales side of some clinics, so wanted to change that and just provide treatments we thought would bring a genuine benefit, not just hit a target. With this ethos and over the years, we’ve grown into four beautiful clinics across South-East Queensland. While our treatments and technology have evolved, our purpose has stayed the same: to deliver real results with genuine care.
How many do you have in your team? How do you ensure they stay at the forefront of the cosmetic and dermal industry?
We have a team of 40 amazing women (and a few men) from Registered Nurses and Doctors to Beauty Therapists, Lash Artists, and our incredible admin team. Keeping our team at the top of their game is a huge priority for us. We invest heavily in training and development, run regular in-clinic education, provide many training opportunities and encourage continuous learning. We take care of our team, and they in turn take care of our clients.
Injex has a unique approach to staff remuneration. Why was this important to you, and how has it shaped your clinic culture? Our remuneration model is a little different, and that’s by design. When we started, all the clinics we knew were paying a low base rate + commission. We decided on paying a higher rate and no commission. This fostered genuine client interactions as staff did not feel like they had to sell ‘xyz’ to actually get paid, they were less stressed, and clients were happier because they were getting real, genuine advice.
You’ve expanded to several locations across Brisbane –what have been the biggest learnings in scaling a multisite cosmetic clinic?
Scaling comes with its fair share of lessons! One of the biggest things we’ve learnt is the importance of consistency not just in service delivery but in systems, team support, and communication. Each clinic has its own personality, but we want every client to walk through the door and have the same Injex experience. Clear processes, great tech, and an amazing team have been key to managing growth without losing our personal touch.
Kate and Emma Taylor
You use Shortcuts Salon Software, why did you choose to partner with Shortcuts? What was the standout for you?
We looked at a few different systems, but Shortcuts stood out because it could grow with us. It offered everything we needed under one roof, appointment booking, staff management, client communication, reporting and it’s customisable, which was a big plus. The best thing about it is the support, I shoot an email off to the team and get a reply that day, the team is absolutely fabulous. I love that 24/7 you can get a hold of someone as well, which is great for those early morning starts or late nights in the office! It’s also super user-friendly for the team, which makes onboarding a breeze.
With multiple locations, how does Shortcuts help you manage appointments, staff schedules, and day-to-day clinic operations? Shortcuts is honestly like our HQ. It keeps everything running smoothly across all four clinics. We can check bookings in real-time, adjust rosters on the fly, and stay on top of day-to-day operations without the usual chaos. It saves so much time and gives us full visibility into what’s happening at each site. I will be overseas sipping pina coladas and still be able to keep an eye on everything from my phone or laptop! It’s brilliant and gives me peace of mind when I do have to be away.
Client experience is everything — how does Shortcuts support you in providing a seamless booking and consultation journey?
From the moment someone books online to their post-treatment notes, Shortcuts helps us keep it smooth and professional. Clients love how easy it is to book especially after hours, and our team loves how streamlined the consultation tools are. It means we can focus less on admin and more on creating a great client experience.
Do you use any automated marketing features within Shortcuts? If so, how have these tools helped drive client retention?
We do! The automated reminders and marketing tools are amazing! We use them all! They help us stay in touch without it being overwhelming. Whether it’s a birthday message, a follow-up after a consult, or a gentle nudge for clients who haven’t visited in a while, it’s all happening behind the scenes and makes a huge difference to client retention.
Has Shortcuts made a difference in how you track performance across clinics? What reporting or dashboard tools do you use most?
Definitely. The reporting side of Shortcuts gives us a clear snapshot of how each clinic and team member is tracking. We look at things like appointment volumes, service breakdowns, and rebooking rates regularly. Having that data at our fingertips helps us make smarter decisions and adjust quickly when needed.
How does Shortcuts integrate with your client communication strategy, from SMS confirmations to aftercare follow-ups?
It’s been a game-changer for communication. Clients get automatic SMS reminders, confirmations, and even follow-ups which has seriously reduced no-shows and increased client satisfaction. We are also able to send before and aftercare which keeps us compliant. Whenever there’s technology that can take some pressure off processes for our admin team, it’s a win-win all round.
What’s one feature in Shortcuts that you or your team couldn’t live without, and why?
Oh gosh, probably console! With so many moving parts and four locations to manage, having a centralised, real-time view of bookings is absolutely essential. It keeps everything running smoothly and makes life a whole lot easier for both the team and our clients.
What’s next for Injex Clinics? Anything exciting coming up over the next 12 months?
We’re always looking into new treatments, products, and devices, we always trial everything in clinic for a while before offering it to clients to make sure we’re happy with the outcomes. But over the next 12 months, we’re focusing on deepening our client education, streamlining our systems even more, and continuing to grow our team. It’s all about staying ahead of the curve while holding onto that Injex heart our clients know and love.
@injexclinics @shortcutssoftware
Beyond the Surface: Why Comprehensive Consultations Are Critical in Cosmetic Tattooing
By Kat McCann - Medical Tattooist
In cosmetic tattooing, results may speak volumes, but it is the consultation that lays the groundwork for both safety and success. As tattooists, we work with skin that is living, dynamic, and often tells a story long before any pigment is implanted.
While design, colour, and technique are cornerstones of our craft, it is our ability to conduct a thorough consultation—one that includes both visual and tactile skin assessment—that ultimately defines the quality and integrity of our work.
The Consultation Is Not Just a Chat—It’s a Clinical Responsibility
A professional consultation goes well beyond discussing a desired shape or colour. It is a critical diagnostic moment, where we gather not just aesthetic preferences, but also the biological, medical, and dermatological information that ensures the client is both ready and safe for the procedure. This is particularly important in areas such as the brows, eyelids, and lips— regions that are delicate, functionally significant, and often exposed to high UV levels (especially here in Queensland). In these zones, early signs of sun damage, suspicious skin changes, or pre-existing medical conditions may become visible—sometimes to us before they’re noticed by the client.
Eyebrow Tattooing: What to Look For
Eyebrows are a common entry point into cosmetic tattooing, but they’re also highly exposed to sunlight, making them a hotspot for sun-induced cellular changes.
Red flags to assess and watch for:
• Sun-induced skin changes: rough patches, flaky areas, or small lesions that crust, bleed or don’t heal
• Suspicious pigmentation: asymmetry, mottled colour, or recent change in shape or behaviour of a mole or mark
• Ink changes: fading, migration, blue-grey discolouration or ink spread that may obscure lesions underneath
• Adhesions or surgical scarring: especially from prior facial surgeries or trauma or scarring from previous tattooing
In one real-world case, I identified unusual pigmentation changes during a consultation and advised the client to have the area reviewed by a GP. The lesion was confirmed as a form of skin cancer, requiring surgical excision. Had we tattooed over it, it may have masked important clinical signs and delayed diagnosis or even worse, seeded more activity. That same client later told me the early referral had “saved their life.” This isn’t exaggeration or hyperbole (a term for overstatement)—it’s a reminder that cosmetic tattooists can be early observers of significant skin changes. Health first - always.
Old Eyeliner Tattoo – Assessment Required
Lower lash line shows signs of pigment shift and migration. Heavily saturated areas with carbon and mixed pigments have developed a blurred, dot-like appearance and visible colour shift to bronze at the outer edges. These changes indicate pigment breakdown and potential migration beyond the original lash line.
Clinical Consideration: When assessing old eyeliner tattoos, evaluate pigment density, placement accuracy, skin integrity, and texture to identify risks that may compromise outcomes.
Professional Guideline: If you determine the old work cannot be improved safely and effectively, it’s best to refrain from attempting further tattooing.
Residual Pigment and Titanium Presence
The previous pigment has shifted over time, now appearing noticeably cooltoned with purplish-blue hues. In addition, areas of excess titanium dioxide have remained, resulting in a visible white cast or ‘filter’. These pigment alterations can significantly impact future tattoo outcomes and will require a more advanced, technical approach.
Note: There is also evidence of broken skin in the early stages of healing along the upper middle and lower left borders of the lip vermillion. This tissue must be allowed to fully heal before proceeding with tattooing to ensure optimal results.
Eyeliner Tattooing: Safety Starts With Sight
Working around the eyes requires not only precision, but caution and respect for ocular health and carries unique risks. Before even discussing pigment or design, an eye-area health check is essential.
Key considerations and what to look for:
• Lash line conditions: papilloma’s, milia, or tiny skin tags that can interfere with pigment retention
• Lid margin health: Blepharitis (inflammation), or meibomian gland dysfunction (where blocked glands can lead to dry eyes)
• Ocular conditions: such as ocular rosacea, which can manifest as redness, swelling, and irritation near the eyes
• Residual makeup or lash serums: which may cause skin sensitivity, excessive vascularity or interfere with healing and increase migration risks.
Some conditions can be worked around with caution, but others require postponement or referral. Clients with chronic eye issues, autoimmune disorders, or recent ocular surgeries may not be suitable candidates—or may require medical clearance before proceeding - if unsure, always seek professional advice or refer to a more experienced practitioner.
Immature Scar:
This area requires further healing before tattooing can proceed, as compromised tissue significantly affects pigment retention and long-term results. In this case, previous tattoo removal led to skin thinning, dermal depressions, and residual post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Clinical Note: When there is a history of excessive trauma or visible structural changes, additional healing time is essential to support stable outcomes and pigment longevity.
Moles,
Sunspots, and Lesions:
These areas must never be tattooed. In many cases, you’ll need to thoughtfully design a brow that is both aesthetically pleasing and safely positioned to avoid tattooing over these features. Once medical clearance is obtained (if required), the best approach is to keep the design soft and opt for lighter pigment tones. This reduces contrast and helps the brow blend more naturally, especially when working around irregular skin features.
Lip Tattooing: Not Just a Pretty Pout
The lips can be revealing when it comes to underlying health conditions. As a mucosal site, they are prone to:
Red flags and prep requirements:
• Cold sores (HSV-1): must be proactively managed with antiviral treatment to avoid post-procedure outbreaks
• Angular cheilitis: inflammation or cracking at the corners of the mouth, often linked to infection or vitamin deficiencies
• Actinic cheilitis: a pre-cancerous condition seen in sun-damaged lips— often dry, white-scaled, or with pigment loss
• Dehydrated, thick, or calloused lips: require pre-conditioning (gentle exfoliation and hydration) to soften the surface for better pigment implantation
• Loss of volume or previous filler distortion: which may alter symmetry or create unpredictable pigment migration
Lips also age differently depending on sun exposure and collagen integrity. Identifying signs of dermal thinning, scar tissue, or post-inflammatory pigmentation is essential to plan for realistic outcomes and long-term retention and just like skin, lips must be prepared to receive pigment. As the saying goes—the outcome is only ever as good as the canvas so it’s important to prep properly as a soft, hydrated lip retains colour more evenly and heals with more uniformity.
Suspicious Lesion Detected:
Scar camouflage tattooing was declined pending medical clearance. The client was referred back to their doctor, where further testing revealed a lesion with unclear margins requiring surgical removal. Pathology confirmed a recurrence of aggressive skin cancer – a potentially life-saving intervention.
Irritated and Inflamed Skin:
Visible inflammation and signs of potential cellular changes across the brow area. Requires dermatologist/ medical evaluation prior to any tattooing procedure.
Suspicious Lesions Detected:
Irregular lesions observed within the brow tattoo area. Client was referred to a dermatologist for medical assessment and clearance prior to any further tattooing.
The Tactile Assessment: Why You Must Touch the Skin
While visual inspection is crucial, feeling the skin provides another layer of diagnostic insight. This isn’t about invasive handling—it’s about using professional judgment and subtle, respectful tactile methods to assess tone, texture, and subdermal inconsistencies. Palpating the skin allows us to detect things a visual inspection may miss and in cases where you detect abnormalities, this physical cue can help determine whether the tissue is tattooable, needs pre-treatment, or should be referred.
It is also a way to build trust. Clients recognise when they are in the hands of a practitioner who is not just focused on the cosmetic outcome, but who respects the anatomy and is committed to their overall health and wellbeing.
During my consultations I often look through a clients brows, folding the hairs back to examine the skin underneath—checking for density, dryness, or underlying lumps and bumps. This also helps detect residual makeup, skin buildup or early scarring. Sometimes the most critical information lies beneath the surface.
When to Refer, Pause, or Decline
Refer
• Lesions or skin changes that appear suspicious, changing, or unresolved
• Active infections, swelling, or unexplained inflammation
• Eye or lip conditions needing medical management
Pause
• Conditions like cold sores, dermatitis, or eczema that must be stabilised first
• Ongoing skin concerns that are being managed but may still influence healing
• Dry, thickened or compromised tissue that needs preparation before tattooing
In these cases, transparent conversations matter. Clients should be informed that even managed conditions can alter pigment retention or texture outcomes—and they can make an educated choice about proceeding.
Decline
• Medical conditions that pose risk outside your scope of practice
• Psychological factors such as suspected body dysmorphia or unrealistic expectations
• Poor skin integrity or immune suppression that would compromise healing or safety
Empower yourself to say no when needed. We are not doctors, and we should not diagnose—but we do have a duty of care to refer appropriately and work within our training and professional boundaries.
Setting a Standard: Consultation as a Cornerstone of
Care
Consultations are not merely procedural formalities—they are the foundation of professional practice. They help set realistic expectations, identify contraindications and form the basis of a trusting relationship between practitioner and client.
Inquiries into health, medication and skin conditions should be handled with sensitivity and clinical awareness. If uncertain, seeking additional professional advice or collaborating with healthcare providers ensures client safety and 360* quality outcomes. By approaching consultations with curiosity, clarity and clinical awareness, we continue to elevate the standard of practice in cosmetic and medical tattooing. By reframing the consultation not as a formality, but as a vital safeguard—where professional judgement, ethical care and technical precision align—you position yourself as a sustainable leader committed to meaningful results and long-term success.
Remember, every great result starts with a wellinformed decision.
Kat McCann x @katmccann_inka
Enhancing Client Care & Elevating Clinic Success .
By Karen Geiszler
The Power of Retailing At-Home LED Masks
In today’s rapidly evolving beauty and wellness landscape, modern clients are more informed, more selective, and more invested in long-term skincare solutions than ever before. For clinics committed to delivering both transformative results and exceptional client experiences, retailing at-home LED (Light Emitting Diode) masks offers a golden opportunity. These once-professional-only devices are now readily accessible, enabling clients to enjoy advanced skin treatments in the comfort of their own homes—without sacrificing efficacy.
Retailing these innovative tools isn’t just about adding a product to your shelf. It’s about extending your care beyond the treatment room, strengthening trust, and creating a seamless bridge between professional expertise and daily client routines. For clinics, this means increased client retention, expanded income streams, and positioning your brand as a leader in smart, science-driven skincare.
The Science Behind LED Light Therapy: Skincare with Substance
At-home LED masks are not a passing trend. They’re grounded in decades of clinical research and innovation.
LED therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate skin at varying depths and stimulate targeted responses from the skin’s cells. Different light colours support different functions:
• Red Light (633nm): Stimulates collagen and elastin production, smoothing fine lines and improving firmness.
• Blue Light (415nm): Destroys acnecausing bacteria, reducing breakouts and inflammation.
• Near-Infrared Light (830nm): Boosts circulation and cellular repair, ideal for wound healing and reducing
Why At-Home LED Masks Are in High Demand.
These are some of the reasons LED masks are dominating the skincare retail space: Consistency Results improve with regular use. At-home masks make it easier for clients to stay on track between professional clinic visits. Affordability at-home devices offer long-term value with a one-time
investment. Technology Access: Consumergrade LED masks are now designed with safety, comfort, and ease-of-use in mind—many offering the same wavelengths used in professional machines.
Client Benefits: More Than Just Great Skin
1. Better Skin, Faster Results
When clients use LED therapy between appointments, they often notice faster improvements in skin tone, acne, scarring, and inflammation. This synergy enhances the results of your in-clinic facials, microneedling, and peels.
2. Empowered Self-Care
Many clients feel empowered by taking an active role in their skin journey. Retailing LED masks shows them that you’re not just performing treatments—you’re supporting their skincare success at every stage.
3. Tailored, Personalised Solutions
LED masks offer multiple light settings to treat a range of concerns. Therapists can tailor a clients light setting based on their skin’s daily needs, leading to higher satisfaction and a more engaging skincare routine.
4. Emotional Wellbeing
LED masks become more than a treatment, they become a calming, restorative part of self-care. This emotional connection creates long-term loyalty between client & therapist.
Why Clinics Should Embrace This Retail Strategy
Revenue Diversification
Adding LED masks to your retail range creates a high value upsell that aligns perfectly with your services. These aren’t impulse buys—they’re informed, considered purchases where your professional advice carries weight.
Client Loyalty & Retention When clients see consistent improvements between treatments, they credit their results to your care—not just the device. This trust leads to higher retention, referrals, and ongoing engagement.
Brand Authority Clinics that embrace leadingedge technology and homecare education position themselves as modern, progressive, and science-savvy. It helps you stand apart from competitors who rely solely on in-clinic offerings.
Low Inventory, High Margin Unlike skincare products that require frequent restocking and shelf management, LED masks have long shelf lives, low storage needs, and excellent margins—ideal for clinics with boutique retail spaces.
Educating Your Clients: Build Trust, Not Just Sales
Clients are overwhelmed with online options and influencer promotions. By offering professional-grade LED masks backed by your expertise, you help them bypass the confusion.
What Sets Your Clinic Apart?
• Trusted, evidence-based recommendations
• Hands-on demonstrations and education
• Ongoing support with proper use and results tracking
• Clear guidance on contraindications and treatment plans
Real-World Implementation: Bringing LED Retail into Your Clinic
Train Your Team
Ensure everyone—from front desk to senior therapists—understands how LED masks work, what brands you stock, and how to identify ideal clients. Knowledge builds confidence and boosts conversion.
Educate in Appointments
Use in-treatment consultations to introduce the concept of between-visit support. Offer short demonstrations or display your device on the counter for easy discussion.
Visual Marketing
Use before-and-after photos, clinic signage, and digital content (Instagram reels, email marketing) to showcase the results clients can achieve.
Bundle with Treatments
Offer LED masks as part of post-treatment aftercare packages or sell them alongside customised skincare program.
Run Exclusive Promotions
Create limited-time offers that make the purchase feel special and time-sensitive.
Lead with Care, Grow with Confidence
Retailing at-home LED masks is more than an add-on—it’s a step into the future client , where client support doesn’t end at the door.
When you empower your clients with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to maintain their results, you deepen your relationship, elevate your reputation, and grow your clinic sustainably.
Whether you’re a solo practitioner or a multiroom operation, embracing at-home LED mask retail is a smart, soul-aligned way to enrich your services and help your clients truly glow—inside and out.
Karen Geiszler Clinical Educator
KG Beauty & Modality Training @klgbeautymodalitytraining
Karen Geiszler
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Sustainable Soul-Led Treatments , The Power of Human Touch !
By Alanna Douglas
In a world of high-tech treatments and everevolving gadgets, it’s easy to feel like we’re falling behind if we don’t have the latest machine in our treatment rooms. But let’s be honest: some of the most powerful tools we have are right at our fingertips—literally.
Our hands are the original, sustainable treatment modality. They carry energy and intention that no device can replicate, offering a deeply human connection that’s often overlooked in today’s tech-heavy landscape.
Don’t get me wrong—I love my machines. They’re powerful, they’re effective, and they’re a big part of my toolkit. But I also know what it feels like to want all the things and feel like a failure because you don’t have them yet. The truth is, the heart of our work doesn’t always come from the latest technology.
The skin is a dynamic, neuroendocrine organ that responds to so much more than just topical products. It dances with our circadian rhythms, reflects our hormonal changes, reacts to stress, and even mirrors our gut health. When we work with our hands—through facial massage, manual lymphatic drainage, and cool globe facial massage—we tap into these systems, influencing the skin’s innate immunity and supporting its natural healing.
These therapies aren’t just skin-deep. They guide our clients into a state of rest and digest, where real transformation happens. It’s here, in this calm, restorative space, that the skin’s defences strengthen, the immune system activates, and cellular renewal gets the green light.
In a time when so many clients feel disconnected, offering this kind of human touch is not just a treatment; it’s a bridge to build trust, loyalty, and lasting relationships. Clients are craving connection, and when they find it with you, they’ll keep coming back.
As Maya Angelou once said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Let’s flip the narrative that more machines mean better results. Sustainable, soul-led treatments begin with us—our hands, our energy, and our intention. And in our hands, we hold the power to transform not just skin, but lives.
If you’re ready to embrace these sustainable, soul-led methods— and learn how to create transformative experiences without all the expensive machines—my Treatment Room Secrets course is here for you. It’s designed to help you bring powerful, results-driven treatments to life using the techniques you already have (and the hands you were born with!).
You can connect with me on Instagram at @skinfreakacademy or visit my website at www.skinfreakacademy.com.au. I’d love to hear your story, cheer you on, and support you as you embrace the power of sustainable, soul-led treatments.
When moving from beauty to become more focused on skin, so many therapists come to me feeling a little out of their depththey’ve got the label of a skin therapist but feel like their knowledge hasn’t kept up! It can be overwhelming- so much to learn but what first?
Today I’m giving you a cheat sheet of the top 5 things you MUST know as a skin therapist!
This will help you channel your energy into the things that are going to exponentially help you in the treatment room- these 5 things are the foundations to building your knowledge throughout the rest of your career!
1 The Keratinocyte Lifecycle
You MUST understand the anatomy of what you are working with! It’s our job to know how skin is made, where it comes from, how it’s built and what are the stages of the cell lifecycle.
Yes, there are many cells that make up our skin but the Keratinocyte is the most prevalent and when you know and understand it, it will skyrocket your knowledge in the right direction and lay a strong foundation.
The other cells all interact with this cell so to get you started- learn all you can about the keratinocyte. If you need help- you can find lots of relatable info in my book, and I also have the illustration and diagram book that will help you!
Learning the keratinocyte lifecycle teaches you how our skins barrier is made and if you’ve ever heard me bang on about skin, you’d know that the barrier is the boss and if you keep breaking that down I’ll come haunt your dreams!!!
Falling in love with this little cell and all that it does for us should be your ultimate goal as a skin therapist as it is the most prolific cell in the entire skin system that needs our undivided attention!!
2: Determining skin types
90% of my new clients do not know their skin type! So it’s pretty darn obvious that they’ve been playing guessing games when buying their products. It also tells me their previous therapist have also missed this very key fact!
You MUST know how to figure out what skin type someone has.
Whilst skin typing isn’t all that important when it comes to performing treatments in the clinic, it’s VITAL to prescribing the correct home care and setting your client up for support.
By knowing how to determine a client’s skin type, you’ll very quickly have them supported with the correct skin care and that alone is going to transform their skin, simply because they’re NOW getting the correct skin care for their skin type! (And you look a freaking genius if you can teach a client their very own skin type and the correct protocols of daily care)
Not sure what those skin type daily care protocols are?? Check out my Therapist Consultation Pack! I’ve done it all for you!!!
3: Know your retail products inside out and back to front!
You’ve probably heard your boss talk about retail and it’s not just because they want to sell your soul and create income into the business- yes that’s great and it’s how we keep a roof over our head and put food on all our tables… but as a skin therapist, home care products are VITAL to the clients skin treatment journey.
It’s up to us as skin therapists to know our product range (or ranges) inside out, back to front/right way up. You’ll be surprised how selling retail feels far less icky when you can talk about it from a place of knowledge and understanding. If you’re a little dusty or your really new to the skin saving game, Learn a product or two a week- I dare you!!
4: Understand your Modalities, who they are for, what to offer and when!
Once you know how skin works and have a solid understanding of the skin anatomy,
Once you know how to figure out a clients skin type, once you know what products are the best for them, the NEXT thing to learn thoroughly is every single treatment and modality you offer in your salon.
-what is on the salon menu
-these are our resources/our toolkit
-What equipment do you have? (LED, skin needling, sonophoresis, the humble steamer…. What gear have you got and what does it do?
-How does it do it?
-Who is best suited to each treatment?
-Who CAN’T have certain treatment/contraindications?
-Should a client be prepped, or can they start straight away?
Knowing what’s on the menu, understanding the equipment we have available and knowing it well gives you so much to draw from, mix and match to make a kick ass treatment plan to get results that will blow your clients minds! (And change their life!!)
5: knowing the intrinsic and extrinsic influences if a skin and its condition.
Knowing what the triggers, causes and influences of skin conditions are will help you to make the changes to get the results!
But knowing what’s an external cause (for example product choices, lifestyle habits and controllable influences) will help you know what you can change/tweak/support to help transform your clients skin.
Knowing the internal factors like medical health, genetic dispositions, hormonal concerns that are leading causes of misbehaving skin will help you to know what is outside of your control and where you need to set realistic expectations because we know there’s no moisturiser on earth that can tackle hormones or genetics! If there was, I’d be a millionaire by now!!!
So if you’re transitioning from traditional beauty services to become a skin focused clinic, or you work in a skin clinic and are feeling a little out of your depth, pour your energy into these 5 things- start at the top of the list because you need to know number 1 first to build on for number two, to build on to number 3 and so forth. I hope this has given you a road map and plan to navigate your way into feeling confident as a skin therapist.
And if you are looking for support in this area, come hang out in my world! I teach beauty therapists how to thrive in the treatment room with confidence and it’s the highlight of my life, seeing you thrive in this incredible industry!
@expert_skin_therapist
Why Community Memberships Matter More Than Just a Like or Follow
By Gay Wardle
In the ever-growing world of aesthetics, beauty, and skin science, there’s one thing that often goes unnoticed among all the talk of lasers, peels, and protocols — and that’s connection. Sure, we might chat in Facebook groups, double-tap Instagram posts, and exchange a few DMs now and then. But have you ever craved something deeper? A space that’s not just informative, but safe, encouraging, and full of people who just get it?
That’s the magic of being part of a true community membership — and why it’s becoming such an essential part of personal and professional growth for skin therapists, dermal clinicians, and aesthetic professionals everywhere.
The Difference Between a Social Group and a True Community
Let’s start with the elephant in the treatment room — we’re all in groups. Lots of them. Facebook groups, Instagram chats, Telegram threads, WhatsApp discussions. They’re fun, sure. Sometimes a post sparks a great conversation. But too often, these spaces are noisy, overwhelming, and let’s be honest — not always welcoming. Asking a question can feel intimidating, sharing a personal win might get lost in the algorithm, and constructive discussions sometimes spiral into debate.
A community membership, on the other hand, is something entirely different. It’s curated. It’s private. And it’s built around shared values: education, support, professionalism, and progress. Everyone is there because they want to grow, learn, and support one another — not just scroll through and occasionally participate.
Think of it like this: if a public group is like being in a bustling food court, a community membership is like being invited to a dinner party where everyone’s passionate about skin. There’s a seat for you, and everyone’s excited you showed up.
A Safe Space to Ask, Learn, and Grow
One of the most powerful aspects of a true community is psychological safety. As therapists, we’re often expected to know everything — every new ingredient, every new device, every skin condition nuance. But here’s the truth: no one knows everything. And the best clinicians are the ones who keep asking, keep learning, and stay curious.
In a well-run community membership, questions are encouraged. There’s no eye-rolling or oneupmanship. Whether you’re brand new or have been in the industry for 20 years, your
voice matters. You’re not competing — you’re growing together. It’s a place where vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s the pathway to confidence.
And let’s talk about those “silly” questions — the ones you don’t feel comfortable asking in public groups because you’re worried someone will judge. In a supportive community? Those questions are gold. They’re often the ones everyone else is thinking too.
Beyond Education — Building Professional Relationships
We often join communities for education — but what keeps us there is the connection. When you find a circle of therapists who share your challenges, your passion, and your energy, something special happens: you stop feeling alone in your business or practice.
This is where true collaboration happens. Members share protocols that worked, tips for tough clients, how they overcame burnout, or what they’re loving in their latest treatments. It becomes more than networking — it becomes mentoring, friendship, and support all rolled into one.
You also gain exposure to guest speakers, exclusive content, guides, templates, live Q&As, and more — things that go well beyond a “comment if you’re interested” post on social media. It’s real-time learning and shared wisdom in action.
Confidence Through Belonging
Confidence doesn’t always come from what we know — sometimes, it comes from who’s around us when we feel unsure. One of the most beautiful transformations in a thriving membership community is watching people come in feeling uncertain and slowly blossom. They start contributing, they start leading, they start owning their expertise.
Belonging to a community reminds you that you’re not behind. You’re not “less than.” You’re exactly where you need to be — and you’re moving forward with a tribe that cheers for your wins, offers hands when you’re stuck, and believes in your growth.
The Benefits You Can’t Always See
Here’s the thing about community — it’s not just about what you get. It’s about what you become.
• You become more confident in your voice.
• You become more connected to your purpose.
• You become more generous in your knowledge.
• And often, without even realising it, you become a mentor to someone else.
It’s like the ripple effect — one post, one shared experience, one late-night live replay can spark new ideas, new friendships, and even new business pathways. And that can’t be measured by follower count.
The Secret Sauce? Intentionality
The best communities don’t happen by accident — they are intentionally created. They’re moderated with care. They’re structured to protect space for curiosity and growth. And they’re filled with people who know this isn’t just another group — it’s a professional sanctuary.
Being part of a paid or curated membership also means quality over quantity. Everyone there has invested — not just money, but mindset. They’ve said, “I’m in this for the long game.” And that’s the kind of energy that shifts conversations from surface-level to seriously supportive.
In Conclusion: We All Need a Circle
Whether you’re a solo therapist in a regional town, a clinic owner in a city, or a student just starting out, we all need a circle. Not just a crowd. A circle — one that’s intentional, encouraging, and elevating.
And if you haven’t found yours yet, they’re out there. (In fact, I run one myself — it’s called the Skin Success Community, and it’s a place where education, connection, and confidence come together. No pressure to join — but if you’re looking for a space to feel seen, supported, and smart — I’d love for you to know it exists.)
Because in this industry, we’re better together. gay@gwsi.com.au www.skinsuccesscommunity.com
Gay Wardle
LIQUID HYBRID DYE
MORE THAN JUST A DYE - IT’S BROW HAIR CARE
HELYX HYBRID DYE offers a brilliant alternative to tinting. BROW HAIR HEALTH has always been Elleebana’s North Star, so our Helyx Hybrid Dyes are formulated with KERAVEG 18 , a plant-based keratin alternative that nourishes, hydrates, and strengthens brow hair by up to 21% during a Helyx Hybrid Dye treatment. This unique formula of SERINE , THREONINE , and ARGININE is ideal for strengthening & restoration.
WHY BROW ARTISTS WILL LOVE HELYX HYBRID DYE
• Deep colour penetration into the hair cortex for long-lasting results - like a permanent tint.
• Skin-staining effect for added definition, mimicking the look of full, sculpted brows.
• Enhances definition on sparse brows.
• A brilliant alternative to microblading and tattooing, which fade over time.
• Cost-Effective for Salons: 100+ applications per bottle.
10 Minutes with Sandy Carty from Phorest
By Louise May
As the Australian Managing Director of Phorest, Sandy Carty feels incredibly lucky to work alongside a passionate, onshore team that’s dedicated to supporting salon, spa, and clinic owners in every step of their journey. For them, it’s not just about software, it’s about people, relationships, and helping businesses reach their full potential.
At the heart of everything Phorest do, is a simple but powerful mission: to uplift, empower, and inspire salon, spa, and aesthetic clinic owners to build thriving businesses, attract and delight loyal clients, and create workplaces where great talent loves to stay. They know the passion and dedication it takes to run a service-based business, and they’re here to be more than just a software provider, they’re here to be a true partner in that journey.
Sandy’s role is all about making sure this mission becomes a reality for the businesses that trust them as their partner. That means growing their footprint in the industry while delivering real, hands-on support. Whether it’s guiding a smooth migration of a salon’s data to their new system, helping teams get started with the software, or providing ongoing coaching and education, great software is only the beginning. It’s the knowledge, confidence, and support behind it that unlocks its full potential; that’s where they come in and it’s his job to make sure the team has everything they need to make that happen.
He also places huge value on building strong, genuine relationships with industry bodies and communities, which forms a big part of his role. These connections not only help shape who they are as a brand, but also ensure they’re always listening, learning, and growing alongside the businesses they serve.
Mocha Beauty Editor Louise May, chats with Sandy Carty about his role and the Phorest brand.
Can you share the history behind Phorest and how it became a global salon software brand?
Phorest was founded 22 years ago by Ronan Perceval, originating from a need to reduce noshows in a Dublin salon where he first worked as a receptionist. What started as a simple software tool to send text reminders to clients quickly evolved to become a complete salon management system. Phorest now supports over 11,500 businesses in 10 different regions globally.
How has Phorest evolved since it first entered the Australian market, and what has that growth looked like from your perspective?
Phorest started its Australian operations in 2018, and the journey since has been remarkable. Over the past seven years, we’ve grown from a small presence to becoming the trusted software partner for nearly 1,000 of Australia’s top-performing premium salons, spas, and aesthetic clinics. In 2020, we faced unprecedented challenges alongside our industry. We were fortunate to be able to pivot quickly to support Australian salons through those tough times with technology innovation, but also provide meaningful, human support to our customers. It was a defining moment for us as it reaffirmed our dedication to being more than just a software provider. It strengthened our relationship with our clients, but also with the industry as a whole. It helped us understand better than ever how we show up as a partner invested in our clients’ success.
From a technology perspective, we’ve kept our momentum strong. Over these years, we’ve introduced some of our most innovative features while also completing a comprehensive “under the hood” overhaul to ensure our solution is faster, more accessible and reliable, and better equipped to meet the evolving needs of salon owners.
Sandy Carty
As we reflect on how far we’ve come, it’s a proud milestone for our team; it’s a testament to our shared vision and relentless pursuit of excellence.
What would you say sets Phorest apart from other salon software systems available today?
I believe what sets us apart is the magic mix of our powerful platform and the heart behind it all. We have built this incredible product and have an innovation team that can anticipate and exceed the evolving needs of salons, spas and aesthetic clinics and deliver the best tools on the market when it comes to streamlining operations, having the best integrated marketing and payments solutions and event tools to help you build a motivated and high performing team within your business. But I think what really sets us apart is that we get it. Under the thoughtful leadership of our founder and CEO, Ronan Perceval, we’ve stayed grounded in the values that matter most: care, collaboration, and community. Every feature we build and every update we roll out comes from a deep understanding of what it means to be in this industry—and how we can make your day-today just a little bit easier. And of course, the real magic of Phorest is the community of people that use it every day. You’ll hear it best from our customers what it feels like to be part of the Phorest family - I’m very proud to be a part of it.
Phorest talks a lot about empowering salon owners to run better businesses –what are the core tools or features that help achieve this?
Phorest touches all areas of daily salon life, from attracting new clients and scheduling appointments to streamlining checkout processes and driving retention through targeted marketing. Designed by and for hair and beauty professionals, our system is, most importantly,
simple to use and reliable.
Our PhorestGo app ensures easy & convenient access to everything you need to run your business on the go, so it’s a core tool for salon owners and their staff. It is also home to one of our newest and already best-loved features that helps create, track and celebrate performance goals with your team. The results are incredible. A lot of people will know Phorest for its sophisticated marketing suite. With everything from new client advertising through to clever reporting, you accurately track and measure your campaign ROI without the need for multiple subscriptions with different vendors.
The Phorest Ads Manager is the industry’s first in-built Social Media Marketing integration that lets you build and publish your ads from a simple, easy-to-use interface within Phorest. With all of your client data at your fingertips, salons can now attract and engage new, current and lost clients, tracking both online and offline conversions with unparalleled precision. The other tool that is having an increasing impact on growth, client retention and salon efficiency, is the Salon Branded App; a fully branded customer facing app that allows salon, spa and clinic clients to book appointments, buy products and gift cards, refer friends and earn and redeem loyalty points from their phone. With new client benefits being frequently added to this tool, our customers are raving about this. If I had to pick my two favourite tools for busy salon owners, it would be the PhorestGo app for efficient and effective day-to-day operations, and the Salon Branded App for increased client engagement and generation of referrals.
What do you consider to be Phorest’s unique selling proposition (USP) in such a competitive space?
From a software perspective, we understand that it is becoming increasingly difficult to attract and retain good quality staff and clients alike. So the tools that set us apart are:
1. PhorestGo App (internal salon team app that keeps your team organised, engaged and accountable).
2. Our Salon Branded App (customer-facing app that simplifies booking engagement, transactions and referrals)
3. Phorest Ads Manager (social media marketing tool that helps salons find new clients and reengage existing clients).
From a customer service perspective, all Phorest packages offer on-shore 6-day-aweek phone support and on-demand software training/coaching. All you have to do is go onto the industry social pages to see that our clients consistently rave about our service being second to none.
From a community perspective, it’s knowing that you’ll be heard by our development teams and be part of building the software of the future, that you have a business partner to call on to help you grow and a network of other likeminded, high-performing professionals ready to treat you like family.
You’ve worked closely with salons across Australia – what challenges are you seeing in the industry right now and how does Phorest help address them?
The challenges we hear from salons across Australia mostly relate to staff retention and motivation, finding new high-quality clients, and retaining them. Phorest has seen these needs grow and built features specifically to address them, with tools like our New Client Finder and Staff Goals. And we have those technology offerings backed up with personalised service to ensure you’re correctly utilising Phorest to tackle these obstacles head on.
How important is community to the Phorest brand, and how do you stay connected with your salon clients?
Connection to the salon community is the backbone of Phorest. We stay connected with our clients through our ongoing free and unlimited education and local support. It’s important to us that our clients can reach us by phone or jump on a training session. We see ourselves not as a software solution, but as a software partner. The human touch is what the hair and beauty industry is all about, and we’re no different! We connect every business with their own dedicated Client Success Manager, who is a committed partner for helping salon owners achieve their business goals through software utilisation.
Plus, you will always find our team at industry events, and me, on the microphone at karaoke at our Salon Owners Summit in Dublin every January.
What’s next for Phorest in Australia? Are there any new developments, features, or goals on the horizon for 2025 and beyond?
We have some really exciting feature developments in the next few months. But to give you a sneak behind the curtain, we have a comprehensive lead nurture and management tool launching very soon, a new and improved Memberships platform coming, and a refreshed new look overall.
www.phorest.com @phorestsalonsoftware
A New Era of EvidenceBased Skincare with Matter of Fact
By Louise May
Salon Pro Australia has joined forces with Ed Connaghan and Denise Russell—global salon industry leaders behind brands like Olaplex, K18, and Goddess BioTech BlowOut—to bring MATTER OF FACT to the Australian and international market.
At the forefront of its Australian launch is Simon Pitt, a respected distributor with four decades of industry experience. Through his new venture, Salon Pro Aus (SPA), Simon is leading the rollout of MATTER OF FACT to salons, clinics, and spas nationwide.
We spoke with Simon about the brand’s arrival, what sets it apart, and why MATTER OF FACT is making waves in the professional beauty space.
Editor of Mocha Beauty Louise May chats with Simon Pitt about the launch of MATTER OF FACT.
Can you tell us about the history of MATTER OF FACT?
Paul Baek, founder and CEO, created MATTER OF FACT in 2018 to develop innovative delivery systems for proven ingredients. Its first major innovation is a waterless, high-potency Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) serum that remains stable, smooth, and non-gritty. Before launching the brand, Paul worked in start-ups and tech, including Atom Factory—investors in Spotify and Warby Parker. He also had a successful music career in South Korea and holds degrees from Harvard, Wharton, and the University of Pennsylvania. He trained in cosmetic formulation under a veteran developer.
How did the partnership come about?
I’ve worked with Ed and Denise for nearly 30 years across multiple brand partnerships, so when this opportunity came up, it was a natural fit. My wife Megan, a qualified beauty therapist with 30 years of experience and a current educator in beauty therapy, is also involved— her expertise brings great depth to our work with MATTER OF FACT.
What makes MATTER OF FACT unique?
Several distinct factors set the brand apart:
• Science-led formulas – All products are grounded in peer-reviewed research, with no trend-driven fillers or marketing gimmicks.
• Stabilized Vitamin C – The Ascorbic Acid 20 Brightening C Serum features a patent-pending, waterless formula that keeps L-ascorbic acid stable and effective longer than typical serums.
• Transparency and minimalism – Ingredient lists are streamlined, avoiding unnecessary additives or irritants, with full transparency around sourcing and testing.
• Elegant textures – Products are designed for a superior user experience: smooth, lightweight, non-greasy, and easy to layer.
• Straight-talking branding – True to its name, the brand is direct, educational, and grounded—focused on real results, not exaggerated claims.
What are the key ingredients used in the range, and what are the benefits?
MATTER OF FACT is built on transparency and efficacy, using highpotency, research-backed ingredients to address concerns such as dullness, discoloration, and fine lines. Below is an overview of the key ingredients and their benefits:
Key Ingredients & Benefits
Function: The purest, most researched form of Vitamin C
Benefits: Brightens skin, reduces discoloration, improves fine lines, and protects against environmental stressors
Function: Potent antioxidant
Benefits: Enhances Vitamin C stability and adds antioxidant protection
Maritime Pine Complex (Pinus Pinaster Bark Extract)
Function: Antioxidant-rich botanical extract
Benefits: Supports Vitamin C stability and provides additional defence
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)
Function: Humectant and skin-conditioning agent
Benefits: Hydrates, soothes, and strengthens the skin barrier
Glycyrrhetinic Acid (Licorice Root Extract)
• Function: Anti-inflammatory agent
• Benefits: Reduces redness, soothes irritation, and helps even skin tone
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
• Function: Multi-tasking skincare active
• Benefits: Boosts elasticity, reinforces the skin barrier, evens tone, and reduces dullness
Azelaic Acid
• Function: Naturally occurring acid
• Benefits: Brightens, fades dark spots, and reduces inflammation
Retinol
• Function: Vitamin A derivative
• Benefits: Promotes collagen, speeds up cell turnover, and softens fine lines
Bakuchiol
• Function: Plant-based retinol alternative
• Benefits: Delivers similar anti-aging benefits with reduced irritation—ideal for sensitive skin
Hyaluronic Acid
• Function: Powerful humectant
• Benefits: Attracts and retains moisture, visibly plumping and hydrating the skin
MATTER OF FACT combines these high-quality actives in elegant, effective formulations, staying true to its mission of delivering real, visible results through evidence-based skincare.
Simon Pitt
What makes this the ideal brand for skin and hair professionals?
MATTER OF FACT is considered ideal for professionals due to its science-first approach, ingredient innovation, and clinical credibility. Here’s why it stands out:
Clinically Backed Formulations: Products are developed using peerreviewed research and clinical trials, appealing to professionals who value evidence-based skincare.
Stable and Effective Ingredients: A key innovation is its patent-pending stable Vitamin C formulation. Ascorbic acid is typically unstable, but this waterless technology ensures lasting potency and consistent results— critical for client outcomes.
Minimalist and Targeted Range: Rather than a broad, generic lineup, MATTER OF FACT offers a streamlined range of high-performance products, making it easier to integrate into treatment protocols and retail recommendations.
Transparency and Ingredient Integrity: The brand avoids unnecessary additives and discloses full ingredient details. Formulations are designed to be non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, and free of common irritants— aligning with professional skincare standards.
Expert-Led Development: Founder Paul Baek brings personal experience with hyperpigmentation and a strong background in chemistry and beauty. His blend of technical skill and user insight resonates with professionals seeking results-driven products.
Professional-Friendly Branding: MATTER OF FACT avoids exaggerated marketing and focuses on facts, data, and real results—mirroring the tone used by dermatologists and skincare experts.
Client Compliance and Ease of Use: Formulas are simple to incorporate into daily routines, supporting better client adherence and long-term skin improvements—an essential factor for practitioners.
In short, MATTER OF FACT combines clinical science, innovative formulations, and transparent branding to offer professionals a reliable, effective skincare solution.
Who is the range best suited for?
MATTER OF FACT is best suited for individuals who want intelligent, effective skincare—especially those with sensitive skin or aging concerns—without the clutter of overcomplicated routines.
What are the standout products in the range?
Founded by Paul Baek, MATTER OF FACT is known for clinical performance, ingredient integrity, and smart formulation. The following are standout products in their results-focused range: Standout Products:
• Benefits: Removes impurities while maintaining hydration
• Highlights: Transforms from balm to gel; effective and gentle
These formulations reflect MATTER OF FACT’s commitment to delivering effective, elegant skincare backed by clinical research—offering targeted solutions for brightness, hydration, aging, and skin integrity.
Is the range suitable for all skin types?
Yes, MATTER OF FACT is formulated for all skin types, with a focus on inclusivity and skin tolerance. The range targets concerns like dehydration, discoloration, and signs of aging, using research-backed, dermatologically tested ingredients designed to minimise irritation—making it especially suitable for sensitive skin.
For example, the Minimalist Hydrating Moisturizer is crafted for sensitive skin, delivering long-lasting hydration in a lightweight, soothing texture. The Brightening + Firming Serum has demonstrated clinical efficacy in improving tone, texture, and elasticity across a variety of skin types.
Founder Paul Baek, who personally experienced oily, acne-prone skin, created products like the Resurfacing + Hydrating Serum to address such concerns gently, without stripping or irritating the skin.
What education or training will be available?
MATTER OF FACT provides tailored education for both consumers and professionals, reinforcing its science-based approach.
Consumer Education:
• Skincare Routine Guidance: Structured routines are broken into stages—the basics and the essentials—helping users understand foundational skincare and when to introduce additional steps.
• Clinical Transparency: The brand shares details on product formulations and clinical testing, empowering consumers with informed choices.
Professional Education:
• Educational Leadership: Vice President of Global Sales & Education, Minarto Fnu, brings over 17 years of beauty industry experience, leading the development of professional education content.
• In-Salon Training: A dedicated trainer will soon be introduced to support salons and spas with hands-on education. With over 30 years’ skincare experience, this role will offer personalised training and ongoing support nationwide.
Additional Resources:
• Video Content: Founder Paul Baek appears in educational videos that explore formulation science and product development.
• Local Education: Salon Professional Australia will soon launch more in-depth content, including interviews and training videos to support salon professionals.
More educational resources are available via the brand’s official website and video library.
How can salons, clinics or spas get started with the brand? To open an account, simply visit www.salonproaus.com.au and register your salon.
@matteroffact_aus @salonproaus
Skin Science with Amy Williams .
Amy Williams, Founder & Director of Aeon Aesthetics and Dermalogica stockist, shares how she has made a meaningful impact through her skin clinic.
How did Aeon Aesthetics begin, and what inspired you to focus on skin health in the medical rejuvenation space?
Aeon Aesthetics began humbly. In under two years, I went from offering lash and brow treatments in my family’s living room to running a full medi-aesthetic clinic with five purpose-built treatment rooms. From the start, I was driven to bridge the gap between skin health and skin science. I noticed the industry shifting away from quick fixes and toward long-term solutions – and I knew I wanted to be part of that movement.
As a skin therapist, I often felt frustrated by the disconnect in clinical settings that overlooked the skin’s complexity. Becoming a registered nurse felt like a natural evolution – it allowed me to combine cosmetic nursing with a deep understanding of skin function and physiology. I wanted to create a space where results weren’t just visible, but sustainable.
How do you approach educating your clients about skin health, especially with so many advanced treatments available today?
Education is at the heart of everything we do. I don’t believe in pushing treatments – I believe in explaining them. Every consultation involves breaking down how the skin works, why certain concerns are showing up, and building a plan that includes both in-clinic and at-home care.
We use visuals, analogies, and progress tracking to help clients understand what’s really going on with their skin. When people are informed, they feel empowered – and that leads to better, more consistent results.
What role does skin science play in how you select treatments and products for your clients?
Skin science guides every decision we make. We don’t chase trends – we look at clinical data, safety, and skin physiology. My background in nursing really supports this approach. It allows us to confidently tailor treatment plans, whether we’re working with hormonal acne, inflammation, or advanced ageing. Everything we offer is grounded in how the skin regenerates and heals over time.
What qualities do you look for in products or technologies before introducing them into your treatment space?
We’re incredibly selective. For us to introduce a new product or device, it must have clinical evidence, ethical backing, proven
results, and real relevance to our clients’ needs. It has to integrate seamlessly into our client journey – without compromising our integrity. We also consider sustainability, transparency, and post-treatment support – we’re not just focused on cosmetic outcomes.
We’re seeing a rise in interest around skin regeneration and cellular communication. What’s your take on next-gen formulas like exosomes?
This is where my two greatest passions meet – skin health and skin science. The shift from simply treating the surface to actually activating the skin’s own communication pathways is where the future lies. We recently introduced Dermalogica PRO’s ExoBooster into our microneedling treatments, and the results have been incredible: faster healing, reduced downtime, and a beautiful post-treatment glow. Clients are genuinely loving it – especially for age management, scarring, and rosacea-prone skin. The results have been so consistent that we developed a dedicated protocol to fully integrate ExoBooster into our treatment offering.
What advice would you give to clients looking to invest in their skin long-term?
Consistency always beats intensity. Instead of chasing quick fixes, work with professionals who understand your skin, your goals, and your lifestyle. Invest early, stay consistent, and focus on quality over quantity. The best skin transformations aren’t overnight – they’re steady, sustainable, and truly empowering.
For other clinics looking to stay ahead in a fast-evolving industry, what’s been key for your growth and client trust? Authenticity and education. I’ve grown Aeon Aesthetics by staying true to our values – clear communication, ethical practice, and truly personalised care.
Clients trust us because we take the time to listen, explain, and evolve with purpose. We invest heavily in education and team training – staying led by knowledge, not the latest trends.
Brows are in Elleebana’s DNA - and have been for three decades. As part of their ongoing innovation, they’re thrilled to introduce their Helyx Hybrid Dye system - a revolutionary hybrid brow dye designed for long-lasting colour, vibrant skin staining, and enhanced hair health.
Helyx Hybrid Dye isn’t just a tint; it’s a brow care treatment infused with innovation. Powered by KeraVeg 18, a plant-based keratin alternative, this liquid hybrid formula nourishes and strengthens the hair while delivering rich, longlasting colour and skin-staining definition. Whether enhancing sparse brows or creating bold, sculpted arches, Helyx Hybrid Dye is a brilliant alternative to traditional tinting, microblading, or tattooing and it’s vegan, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested. Ready to elevate your brow services? Let’s get started.
DIRECTIONS: Easy to use, simply mix HELYX HYBRID DYE with HELYX HYBRID DEVELOPER 3% as per instructions below. For eyebrow application ONLY. DO NOT TINT EYELASHES!
PATCH TESTING: Always perform a patch or sensitivity test (allergy) 48 - 72 hours before procedure and if your client shows a reaction do not perform the treatment. The patch test is performed by applying a small amount of the products onto the client’s inner arm or behind the ear. Leave the product to process for 10 minutes before removing thoroughly
STEP 1 – CLEANSE
Cleanse and prep the brow area with the Elleebana Makeup Remover / cleanser. Apply a small amount to two cotton rounds and gently wipe through the brows, or dispense directly onto the brow area and use a mascara wand to gently brush through the hairs for clients with dry or oily skin. Remove cleanser with a dry cotton round. This helps remove excess oils or dead skin cells. This product effectively cleanses the brows and skin.
STEP 3 - HYBRID DYE APPLICATION
STEP 2 – MIX
Mix Helyx Hybrid Dye and Helyx Hybrid developer at a ratio of 1:1 in the ElleePalette mixing dish or mixing cup. We recommend 6 drops of dye to equal parts oxidant.
Evenly apply the mixture onto the eyebrows using a flat angled brush, staying within your mapped lines. For optimal staining results, we recommend applying 2–3 thin layers. The application time may vary depending on the desired outcome, but leaving the product on for 10–15 minutes can enhance colour longevity. Follow the natural brow contour to achieve the ideal shape for your client while ensuring you are removing the dye from unwanted areas swiftly with a damp cotton tip. The longer the hybrid dye remains on, the more intense and saturated the colour will appear.
STEP 4 - TIDY
Remove any excessive dye from the skin outside of the perfect brow shape using a damp cotton tip or micro swab. Be careful not to remove any areas of the brow that you wish to remain stained or hair to colour.
STEP 5 – REMOVE CLEANSER WITH A DRY COTTON ROUND
Carefully remove the hybrid dye from the brow area using a dry and then damp cotton pad or cotton tip to complete the treatment.
STEP 6 - MARVEL YOUR RESULTS
Gently comb through your brows with a spoolie and admire your stunning results! For added nourishment, apply Elleeplex Advanced Aftercare, Hyaluronic Boost Serum or use Elleefix Styling Wax to shape your brows perfectly.
EMPOWER
JOIN THE SKIN SUCCESS COMMUNITY
A supportive and educational membership created for Beauty Therapists, Dermal Clinicians & Nurses who want to grow, connect, and lead with confidence. A supportive and educational membership created for Beauty Therapists, Dermal Clinicians & Nurses who want to grow, connect, and lead with confidence.
Download ready-to-use client and therapist handouts (editable in Canva!)
Connect with like-minded professionals in a safe, supportive space
Learn from guest speakers, stay updated on trends, and deepen your consultation skills
It’s not just another group – it’s your go-to professional development hub.
Why Join Us?
Real Learning – No fluff. Everything is designed to improve outcomes and confidence.
Customisable Resources – Tools you can brand and use immediately in your clinic.
Supportive Community – You’re not alone. Ask questions, share wins, and grow together.
Global Reach – Ideal for therapists in Australia, USA, Europe & Asia.
What’s Included?
• Monthly Masterclasses
• Editable Handouts (Therapist + Client Versions)
• Guest Expert Talks
• Step-by-step guides
• Discussion Forums
All for just $89/month or save with one yearly payment of $890
When Regulation Meets Responsibility: A Preview of the New AHPRA Guidelines
By Stefanie Milla, Founding Director & CEO, Aesthetic and Beauty Industry Council (ABIC)
The aesthetic and beauty sector in Australia is experiencing a critical moment of transformation. While our industry has always evolved with science and innovation at its core, we now find ourselves navigating increasing regulatory scrutiny, and not always fairly.
Recent media coverage has painted a narrow picture of what we do. At times, it’s framed our work as frivolous or risky, ignoring the deeper truth that we help millions of Australians feel confident, supported and empowered in their own skin. What is consistently overlooked is the fundamental, proven link between our appearance and mental health. When a person feels that their outward appearance reflects their inner vitality, when they look rested, healthy or simply more like themselves, their body responds biologically.
In fact, studies show that positive body image can trigger neurochemical changes, including elevated serotonin and dopamine levels, which support mental wellbeing and reduce stress markers such as cortisol (Etcoff et al., 2011; Cash et al., 2004). This isn’t vanity; it’s neurobiology. Yet these benefits are rarely acknowledged in the national conversation.
At ABIC, we advocate for evidence-based safety and ethics, but also for dignity, respect and fairness. We welcome clear guidance that protects patients. We support raising standards. But we must also protect the rights of professionals and small businesses to operate responsibly and without prejudice.
These new AHPRA guidelines, effective from September 2025, were previewed earlier through a public consultation phase in 2023/2024 where ABIC and the broader industry submitted feedback. Since then, many professionals have proactively made changes in preparation. We believe the guidelines represent a significant step toward patient safety, even as some elements risk limiting how patients find and connect with suitable practitioners.
Key Changes: What You Need to Know
No Testimonials or Emotional Messaging
Testimonials are banned. This includes patient stories, success posts, reviews on third-party sites, or even resharing a client’s Instagram story. Social proof, while powerful, can create unrealistic expectations. That said, this also restricts transparency, making it harder for patients to hear about others’ lived experiences and align with a practitioner whose ethos matches their own.
Influencer Content Is Regulated
Practitioners are held fully responsible for the content of any influencers or ambassadors they collaborate with. This includes ensuring compliance with all advertising restrictions and disclosing that any therapeutic products shown must follow TGA requirements.
Before-and-After Images Face Major Restrictions
field. ENs must work under RN supervision and cannot administer injectables in high-risk zones unless strict supervision conditions are met. RNs who only hold a qualification in mental health, paediatric, or disability nursing must retrain via an NMBA-approved pathway before practising in cosmetic procedures.
Under AHPRA guidelines, before-and-after images are permitted if they follow strict requirements: the images must be genuine, unedited, clearly labelled, and used responsibly. However, this creates tension with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), which prohibits the use of before-and-after images altogether in advertising therapeutic goods. This contradiction places practitioners in a difficult position, balancing the need to visually educate patients while adhering to overlapping regulatory frameworks.
Language Must Not Trivialise Procedures
Terms like “simple”, “quick”, “painless”, “perfect”, “transformative”, or “best version of yourself” are not permitted. Practitioners must use language that reflects the seriousness, risks, and complexity of each treatment. Advertising must remain factual and balanced.
Consent for Procedures and Image Use Must Be Separate
Practitioners must obtain two separate consents, one for the procedure, and a distinct one for the use of images. Patients must know exactly how their images will be used, for how long, and where. Consent must be documented and stored securely, and images may not be saved on personal devices.
Post-Procedure Care Requirements
Practitioners must ensure appropriate aftercare is in place, even if they are unavailable. Formal back-up arrangements must be made and documented. This is a welcome move toward continuity of care.
Strict Qualifications for Nurses and ENs
Registered Nurses must have one year of general nursing experience outside aesthetics before entering the cosmetic
Accredited Facilities Encouraged
Practitioners offering injectables or skinpenetrative procedures are encouraged (though not yet mandated) to operate from facilities accredited under the ACSQHC standards. This pushes the industry further toward medicalgrade safety benchmarks.
Striking the Right Balance
ABIC believes these reforms, while largely in the interest of public safety, must be implemented with sensitivity to professional viability and patient communication needs. Patients benefit from understanding a practitioner’s philosophy, technique and treatment approach, and overly restrictive advertising may hinder their ability to make an informed choice.
We also believe that respectful, professional, and evidence-informed communication, not manipulative or emotional messaging, should be the cornerstone of our industry’s public image.
What Comes Next
The ABIC Regulation Committee will gather industry feedback, lead a formal response to these changes and ensure industry voices are heard. We invite all registered health practitioners, educators and clinic owners to join us as we prepare submissions and develop compliance resources.
This is a defining moment. If we respond as a unified, ethical and expert community, we won’t just protect the public. We’ll elevate our profession.
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Get The Look With Berrywell Eyebrow and Eyelash Colours
Augenblick is all about eyebrow and lash colours–pronounced eyes and an unforgettable look.
BERRYWELL® offer a brilliant range of eyebrow and eyelash colours. With six shades available, lashes and eyebrows can be perfectly coordinated to virtually every hair colour
BERRYWELL® colours are dermatologically tested.
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Why speaking to the right person changes everything
By Elle Wilson
If you’re trying to speak to everyone, you’re speaking to no one.
And if you think narrowing down your audience will cost you clients, I’m here to tell you that the opposite is true.
Think about this—when your ideal client reads your marketing, do they feel like you’re talking directly to them? Like you’re inside their head, understanding their struggles better than they do?
Or does your messaging sound like everyone else’s?
Because if you’re throwing out generic promises like “flawless skin” or “perfect brows,” you’re blending in with every other beauty business out there. And let’s be honest, blending in isn’t exactly a winning business strategy.
The truth is, the most successful beauty professionals are laser-focused on one thing: becoming the undeniable go-to expert for a specific type of client with a specific problem.
If you’re a skin specialist, are you for everyone who wants better skin? Or are you the absolute authority for women suffering from debilitating adult acne, women navigating the skin challenges of menopause, or those desperate to reverse the early signs of aging?
If you’re a brow specialist, are you just offering another brow service, or are you the expert in correcting bad microblading, restoring symmetry after years of overplucking, or helping women regain confidence after brow trauma?
If you’re in the lash industry, are you just another artist, or are you the go-to for natural, damage-free sets for professionals who don’t want heavy extensions? Or maybe you specialize in high-drama, full-volume lashes for clients who want to turn heads.
Your ideal client doesn’t just want a service. She wants a specialist. She’s already overwhelmed with choices. She’s scrolling past salon after salon, each one offering the same vague promises. She’s looking for the one professional who gets her.
I know this from personal experience. When I decided to niche my business down to natural brow design, it became my entire focus. I wasn’t trying to be everything to everyone. I wasn’t marketing facials, lashes, or other services. I spoke about brows, and only brows.
Every forum post, every blog article, every piece of content I put out was centered on one thing: helping women restore the beauty of their natural brows. It didn’t mean I wasn’t offering other services—I was. But brows became my hero service, and that was the game-changer.
What happened next was almost effortless. Clients who came to me for brows naturally began to trust me with other treatments. They weren’t just satisfied with their brows—they were so delighted that they immediately wanted my expertise in everything else. It wasn’t about selling them into additional services. It was about positioning myself as the expert in one thing so powerfully that they saw me as the expert in everything.
This is exactly why niching down doesn’t limit your business—it expands it. You draw in the right clients through your hero service, and once they trust you, they look to you for more.
You see when a client finds that person, that gets her, she doesn’t hesitate. She books, she trusts, she refers.
But here’s where most beauty professionals go wrong.
They think if they narrow their focus, they will lose business. That if they say, “I only work with women struggling with postmicroblading discoloration,” they’ll scare off potential clients.
What actually happens is the exact opposite. I just shared with you the tried and proven success of focusing your marketing efforts on the ‘ideal client.’
When you own your niche, the right clients will come running. Not just because they need your service, but because they finally feel like they’ve found someone who truly understands them.
And here’s the kicker: even people outside your niche will still book you.
Why? Because expertise is magnetic. The moment you position yourself as a specialist, even clients with different needs will assume you’re simply the best at what you do.
Think of it this way—if you needed heart surgery, would you go to a general doctor who “does it all,” or would you find the best heart surgeon, even if their website only talks about one type of procedure?
Your ideal client thinks the same way. She doesn’t want someone who can do a bit of everything. She wants someone who excels at the one thing she cares about.
And once she finds that person, she won’t hesitate. She won’t price-shop. She won’t need convincing. She’ll already know you’re the right choice.
So, ask yourself right now—who is that one person for you? What’s keeping her up at night? What’s making her feel insecure when she looks in the mirror? What does she secretly Google when she’s alone?
Because the moment you start speaking directly to her, everything changes. Your marketing becomes magnetic. Your bookings increase. Your retention skyrockets.
And instead of chasing new clients, you’ll have a steady stream of people coming to you, because they already know you’re the expert they’ve been searching for.
Next issue, let’s dive into the concept of the hungry market— how to identify the perfect treatment to specialize in and attract clients who are actively searching for what you offer.
To Your Ongoing Success!
Elle Wilson @ellewilsonofficial
An Open Letter to My Peers
By James Vivian
Our industry has a bad reputation.
Whether it’s an article appearing in a major news publication, an anti-antiageing Instagram reel or another negative skincare review, it seems that there is a constant spotlight illuminating our industries supposed ‘dark side’ - an industry that prays on people’s insecurities, their vulnerabilities and their physical and emotional weaknesses.
Now, like myself, you might read these articles or see these posts and think they are not the part of the industry that I swim in. On a daily basis, I contemplate how I could possibility be contributing to the negative impact that our industry could be having on our community, and I also contemplate what I can do to change it for the better.
Year on year, our industry grows bigger and louder and with it needs to grow our responsibility to ensure a greater level of scrutiny and consideration for how this growth impacts our individual corners of the industry and the ever-growing possibilities that come with it.
There are so many moving parts to our industry with so many people contributing to its ecosystem. There are beauty therapists, dermal therapists and clinicians, cosmetic injectors, GPs, plastic and cosmetic surgeons, dermatologists, skincare brands and their representatives and many other allied health professionals that, like you and me, all got into this industry to help and look after people.
Many of us are working to enhance, uplift and strengthen our industries presence and reputation as a safe, non-judgemental and esteem affirming necessity, but these intentions are often drowned out in comparison to the negative messaging and attention surrounding the work we do.
So, what can we do to help? Continuing to simply and bravely show up to work every day and doing your best to engage with your clients and industry with integrity and honesty is already a great place to start. There is a possibility that we are, unknowingly, perpetuating centuries of old language, traditions and philosophies that we don’t even realise could be causing harm. People are tuning into and relying on our industry more and more every day and we cannot underestimate the power and therefore the responsibility that comes with it.
We must be mindful of how our words can make people feel or may be construed. We must ensure that the information that we share with our communities are true and free from polarising biases, fearmongering and demonisation. We must be able to believe in our industry just as much as we oppose it and to understand that we’re not for everyone and that to engage in our services or not engage in our services mean both everything and nothing.
We must remember that whilst skincare and treatments have become so normalised to us, that this isn’t the case for most people and it potentially never should be. We must be able to talk about the risks just as much as we talk about the positives. We should be able to recommend an alternative treatment or product that we do not offer just as swiftly as we recommend ones that we do offer. We must know what we can do, just as well as what we cannot do. We must offset our industries lack of regulation with thorough and regular training and education.
I have begun sharing these feelings with my colleagues to gauge their thoughts as I believe that it is through a collective conversation about what we’re doing right, what we can do better and how we are going to get there that we can truly analyse ourselves and our impacts, both positive and negative.
Our industry didn’t develop its bad reputation overnight and I do believe that for many of us working in the industry today, we are not responsible. However, if we do not take action to improve its character, then we are culpable for its future.
If anything, I’ve said here sparks a feeling in you, then I’d love you to share it with me and I’d like to speak to as many people as possible e.g. colleagues, customers, media etc. to discover alternative perspectives and suggestions.
Looking forward to continuing the conversation with you.
james@jamesvivian.co @jamesvivian
The Evolution of Beauty: How innovation and inclusivity are shaping the industry.
By Danni Boerma
The beauty industry has always been a reflection of adaptation and global trends. From ancient rituals to today’s cutting edge skincare innovations, beauty has continually evolved. In recent years, however, the industry has undergone one of its most transformative shifts yet driven by technology, inclusivity, and consumer demand for authenticity.
A Tech Driven Transformation
One of the most notable developments in the beauty industry is the integration of technology. Augmented reality apps now allow users to virtually try on makeup, skincare brands are leveraging AI to deliver personalised regimens, and biotechnology is revolutionising ingredient sourcing and product development. Consumers can now match foundation to their skin tone with precision or receive customised serum recommendations based on a selfie.
This level of personalisation isn’t just convenient; it’s also reshaping the consumer experience and boosting brand loyalty. Inclusivity as a Standard, not a Trend Inclusivity has moved from being a marketing buzzword to a non-negotiable standard. Brands are increasingly recognising the importance of offering products that cater to all skin tones, types, ages, and genders.
Today’s consumers expect more than representation they demand customer service and support. They want to see diverse faces in campaigns, ingredient transparency, and meaningful representation behind the scenes.
Sustainability and Conscious Consumerism
Eco conscious beauty is on the rise, with consumers becoming more mindful of the environmental impact of their purchases. Brands are responding with refillable packaging, biodegradable materials, and cruelty free, vegan formulations. Sustainability isn’t just about the planet—it’s also about ethical labour practices and transparent supply chains.
This push for accountability has given rise to a new breed of “clean beauty” brands that prioritise not just what’s in their products, but how and where they’re made.
The Sad Rise of Influencer Brands
The democratisation of beauty is in full swing. Social media platforms have given rise to brands and influencer led companies that connect directly with consumers. These brands often start small but grow rapidly due to their marketing, community building efforts, and ability to respond quickly to trends.
Unlike traditional beauty giants, many of these new players are born online, allowing them to be agile, experimental, and deeply customer centric. While the rise of online beauty influencers presents challenges for salons, it doesn’t necessarily spell doom for the traditional beauty industry. Instead, it signals a need for adaptation and innovation.
Emphasising Unique Services: Salons can differentiate themselves by offering unique services that cannot be easily replicated at home. Specialised treatments, professional grade products, and personalised consultations remain attractive to consumers who value expert advice and tailored experiences.
Incorporating Technology: Salons can leverage technology and social media to their advantage. By collaborating with beauty influencers, salons can reach wider audiences, promote their services, and showcase their expertise. Live demonstrations, virtual consultations, and engaging social media content can help salons maintain relevance in a digital world.
Building Community: Salons can foster a sense of community by offering workshops, events, and exclusive promotions to loyal customers. Creating a welcoming environment where clients feel valued can encourage repeat visits and establish long term relationships. Face to face interactions contribute significantly to building brand loyalty. When clients have positive experiences with attentive and knowledgeable staff, they are more likely to return and recommend the salon to others. Personal connections can enhance customer retention, fostering a sense of community around the brand. In contrast, online shopping experiences can feel impersonal, making it challenging for brands to cultivate lasting relationships with their customers.
Looking Ahead
As beauty continues to evolve, the lines between wellness, skincare, and self-care are blurring. Consumers are prioritising holistic well-being, with products that support mental health, promote self-love, and serve a purpose beyond aesthetics.
The future of beauty lies in balance, between innovation and authenticity, inclusivity and individuality, sustainability and performance. It’s a confronting time, for industry professionals, with consumers more empowered than ever to define beauty on their own terms.
@danni_boerma
Balancing Clean Beauty
By Will Fennell
I often receive questions about balancing a clean beauty ethos with performance-driven skincare. The answer is straightforward: it’s not easy.
At Biodroga, our Clean Beauty initiative is driven by a bold vision: to create cosmetic products that not only enhance beauty but also align with ethical practices. This includes eliminating all mineral oil, parabens, phthalates, microplastics, PEGs, and silicones from our formulations. We care deeply about the origins and production methods of the ingredients we use. However, we recognise that delivering genuine performance requires a delicate balance—one that provides stunning textures, a luxurious feel on the skin, and impressive results.
To achieve a high level of effectiveness, we utilise well-established active ingredients that have secured their place in the cosmetic industry. Ingredients like niacinamide, retinol, peptides, glycolic acid, and specific chemical UV filters are essential, even though many stem from synthetic or petrochemical sources. Currently, there are no precise natural alternatives available on the market. This is a thoughtful choice we make to incorporate these synthetic actives, ensuring we maintain the quality and effectiveness our customers expect.
- Glycolic Acid
- Methylpropanediol
Product development often involves incorporating additional synthetic components to stabilise and solubilise valuable ingredients. For instance, while we explored various naturally derived solubilisers for niacinamide, we found that propylene glycol, despite its petrochemical origins, was the most effective method for delivering a high concentration of niacinamide.
We carefully consider each ingredient to strike a balance between purity and performance. Our commitment to Clean Beauty is an ongoing journey, and we continuously seek viable alternatives to synthetic materials. We are driven by our desire to create even cleaner products without sacrificing efficacy.
A shining example of clean beauty innovation is retinal, an active ingredient derived from vitamin A. Excitingly, retinal can now be produced using biotechnological methods. At the same time, traditional retinol still relies on petrochemical synthesis.
Choosing specific active ingredients carefully is essential for maintaining effectiveness in any “medical” line, which is often meticulously crafted to address particular skin concerns.
While a comprehensive list of synthetic ingredients would be too extensive, here are some key ones that cannot be replicated with naturally derived alternatives:
- Acetyl Tetrapeptide-2
- Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9
- Acetyl Tetrapeptide-11
- Acetyl Tetrapeptide-40
- Butylene Glycol
- Chemical UV Filters
- Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid
- Dipeptide-4
- Dipropylene Glycol
- Niacinamide
- Panthenol
- Pentapeptide-48
- Retinol
Conversely, this raises the question of how many ingredients can be sourced without relying on petrochemicals. Companies are now compelled to act to substitute natural-origin ingredients whenever possible.
I am genuinely interested in the potential of Clean Beauty in skincare! Initially, I believed we needed to eliminate all petrochemicals; however, my exploration and practical experience in this evolving field have shown me the importance of finding a balance. After all, certain powerful ingredients, such as niacinamide, are undeniably essential.
For those after a completely petrochemical-free experience, there are excellent options available on the market. Numerous products, such as our Biodroga Organic Institute line, provide near-cosmeceutical results, offering a fantastic solution through certified organic skincare.
Ultimately, the decisions we make empower us to collectively enrich our beauty journey while promoting a more ethical approach to cosmetics. By reducing our petrochemical usage and minimising our environmental footprint, we can explore exciting possibilities and make informed choices that benefit both our skin and the planet.
Good luck.
Will x
I want to thank my colleague Nicole Frank from Biodroga, Germany, for her assistance with this article.
Will Fennell is an International trainer and owner of Biodroga Australia www.biodroga.com.au
The Art of Body Painting as a Makeup Artist
By Brooke Clarke
Following on from my article in the last issue of Mocha Beauty, I’m here to give you some insight into one of my favourite avenues of makeup artistry - body painting!! When most people think of makeup artistry, they imagine foundation, contouring, or the perfect winged liner. But for some artists, (it’s me, I am ‘some artists’) makeup doesn’t stop at the jawline—it becomes a full-body masterpiece.
Body painting is one of the most exciting, expressive, and theatrical sides of the industry, and for makeup artists looking to stretch their creativity, it opens up a world of opportunity.
From music videos and editorial shoots to Halloween events, live performances, advertising campaigns, cosplay conventions, and even body-positive art exhibitions, body painting is in high demand. Whether you’re turning someone into a glittering alien queen, a living marble statue, or a comic book character come to life, there’s always a reason to go full coverage with colour.
My journey into body painting happened totally by accident, but when I look back through my career, it was clearly where I wanted to be, even if I didn’t know it at the time. I started by doing creative makeup on myself in my apartment when I was living in London, not really for any other reason than I wanted to be better and wanted to practice my skills. I would post these looks on Instagram for my friends to see, and one day it all blew up. Back in the early days of Instagram, everyone in the whole world had the same explore page, and if your image got on the explore page, it was HUGE! well, that’s what happened to me. I woke up one day with 20,000 new followers and after that, the creative jobs came rolling in. I started planning my looks a little better, using better quality products, and continuously working on my skillset so I could create new and exciting looks for my followers and clients.
When I moved back to Australia, I entered into the NYX Face awards, which at the time was the world’s biggest online makeup contest. This is when I truly fell in love with body painting, as it was the first time I pushed myself to create a look that was further than just the face and neck. I remember creating an underwater themed creature for this competition, using colours and textures all over the face, neck, chest and arms, and I was OBSESSED!
From there I started booking photoshoots with different models as I decided I wanted to pivot away from social media. I wanted to continue creating art, but I wanted to do it with other people. When I started doing these shoots, I found that my followers on Instagram didn’t respond as much, as it wasn’t my face they were seeing anymore, but I also found I started getting booked for way more creative body painting jobs as a result of showcasing these skills on other people. Flash forward a few years and I now do around 5/6 body paint jobs per month. These jobs consist of photoshoots, music videos, workshops and so on. I even once got hired to turn a model into a full cyborg (which everyone online thought was AI) - you just never know what’s out there waiting for you until you let the world know you can do it.
Why Body Painting is a Career Game-Changer
For makeup artists, body painting is not just a skill—it’s a statement. It allows you to showcase technical ability, bold creativity, and problemsolving under pressure. Body painting gigs often come with higher pay, long-lasting connections in the entertainment industry, and the kind of portfolio images that make casting agents and art directors stop scrolling. There is truly nothing more satisfying as an artist than pushing boundaries within your skillset - body painting certainly pushes you as an artist, physically and mentally. But the reward at the end, seeing something incredible that’s come from YOUR hands, your brain, is truly magical.
How to Paint a Body Like a Pro
3. Work Top to Bottom
Here’s a golden rule: Always paint from the top down. Once a model’s lower half is painted, they won’t be able to sit or bend without potentially smudging your masterpiece. Starting with the face, shoulders, chest, back, and arms allows them to stay relatively comfortable while you work your way down to the legs and feet.
Doing a full body paint isn’t quite as simple as picking up a brush and letting loose. It takes planning, precision, and a whole lot of patience. Here’s some hot tips I’ve learned along the way, so you don’t make the same mistakes I did.
1. Plan It Out First
Before the model steps foot in the chair (or more accurately, stands on the drop cloth), it’s essential to plan your design. My top tip for not getting lost within the paint, is to draw out your concept using a body chart. This allows you to play with placement, symmetry, and colour before committing to paint. It also helps to keep your clients in the loop as they can have a preview of your work prior to the day, so you don’t have to make any adjustments on the day of the job. This blueprint helps you stay on track, keep focused, and keep everyone involved on the same page.
2. Comfort Is Key
4. Use the Right Products
There are different types of body paints, from alcoholbased to water-activated, airbrush, or cream formulas. Each has its own finish and durability. My favourite products to body paint with are Mehron and Global Colours water activated paints, and Pro-Aiir airbrush paints.
5. Learn by Doing
While there are plenty of tutorials and online courses available, the best way to learn body painting is by assisting. Shadow experienced artists on set, at festivals, or during competitions. You’ll pick up pro tips, learn how to manage time, and discover tricks you can’t get from a YouTube video.
Final Thoughts: It’s All About the Experience
Body painting is one of the most collaborative, immersive, and joyful parts of a makeup artist’s journey. It’s theatrical. It’s transformative. It challenges you creatively and professionally—and the payoff is spectacular. You get to turn skin into story. A living, breathing canvas that brings fantasy to life. If you’ve enjoyed learning about the world of body painting, don’t forget to tune into my ongoing deep dive into the world of makeup artistry in the next issue of Mocha Beauty.
Body painting can be a vulnerable experience for the person under the paint, so ensuring the model’s comfort and dignity throughout the session is vital. Clear communication, setting expectations, and providing private changing areas or robes is a must. Use pasties and C-strings to discreetly cover sensitive areas while allowing for a clean and uninterrupted paint surface. Be aware of temperature, breaks, and hydration. You’re not just creating art—you’re working with a human canvas who needs to feel respected and supported.
I truly believe this industry can be so giving, and it’s such an honour to write about my one true love, makeup (hehe sorry husband). Feel free to reach out to me via my socials if you have any questions about my wonderful world.
The beauty industry is rife with the appearance of strong businesses, but beneath the aesthetics of gorgeous fitouts and microinfluencers, lies an undeniable truth: many beauty and aesthetic business owners are unknowingly walking a financial tightrope. Cash flow issues, poor pricing strategies, and emotional decision-making can quickly spiral into insolvency if left unchecked.
Over the past 10 years, working with salons and clinics and in my previous life inside PwC’s insolvency division, I’ve seen both the red flags and the road to recovery. In this article, I want to arm you with the tools to avoid becoming another cautionary tale.
Understanding Insolvency (And Why It Matters)
Insolvency isn’t just a big scary word reserved for massive corporations, it’s a legal and financial reality that small business owners need to understand. In simple terms, you’re insolvent if you can’t pay your bills when they’re due.
This is a legal red flag because continuing to trade while insolvent (meaning you can’t pay your bills when they are due) exposes you to serious personal liability. But the good news? Insolvency doesn’t happen overnight. With the right systems and a proactive mindset, it can be avoided entirely.
The Financial Health Checklist: Are You at Risk?
Use this practical self-assessment checklist to identify early warning signs in your business. Answer honestly.
1. Cash Flow Management
• Do you know your cash flow forecast for the next 3–6 months?
• Are you consistently short on cash before BAS or wages are due?
• Have you dipped into personal savings or credit cards to cover business costs?
• Is your bank account declining each month or going into the negative?
2. Profit vs Revenue
• Are you pricing for profit, or just to keep clients happy?
• Are you offering discounts to get cash in the door?
• Do you know your break-even point?
• Are your high-revenue months actually profitable, or just busy?
• Are you consistently making a loss each month or more than 70% of the financial year, without intention (meaning it’s not part of a tax strategy to make a loss)?
3. Cost Control & Overheads
• Do you review your expenses monthly and cut unnecessary costs?
• Are your wage costs above 30% of your turnover?
• Are your stock purchases based on demand or impulse?
• Are your stock purchases more than 20% of your turnover as a skin/ beauty business or 30% as an injectable and skin clinic?
• Is your rent more than 15% of your turnover?
4. Debt & ATO Obligations
• Are you behind on super, GST, PAYG or other ATO obligations?
• Have you received formal payment demands or director penalty notices?
• Are you making payment arrangements you can’t realistically meet?
• Are you struggling to keep up with all of your debt payments for machines, fitout costs, ATO or loans?
• On your balance sheet, do you have more current assets than current liabilities?
• Is your rebooking below 40% each month?
• Are you relying on new clients instead of nurturing your regulars?
• Do you track rebookings and client lifetime value?
7. Owner’s Role & Mindset
• Do you have regular financial meetings with your bookkeeper and accountant (even if you’re solo)?
• Is your financial accounting system (Eg. Xero, MYOB or Quickbooks) updated each month to give you accurate and timely reporting?
• Do you have multiple bank accounts set up and in operation to help you manage your finances effectively?
• Are you making emotional decisions or data-driven ones?
What To Do If You’re at Risk
If you’ve answered “yes” to more than 5 of the red flag questions above, it’s time to act, not panic. Here’s what you can do now:
1. Get Clear on Your Numbers
It’s important to ensure that you’re updating your financial accounting software monthly (not quarterly) for timely and accurate reporting. Also, check your reporting in your booking software (Eg. Timely, Phorest, Fresha etc) every month to track the performance of your business and identify where the gaps are resulting in poor cashflow and losses generated each month. Even if you hate spreadsheets, you need a forecast for profit and loss and cash flow, and break-even analysis. If you can’t do it alone, get help. Your numbers are the truth.
2. Review Your Pricing Strategy
Most beauty businesses undercharge and overdeliver. Your pricing must reflect your skill, product quality, overheads, time, and desired profit, not just what the salon down the road is charging.
3. Stop the Leaks
Review your expenses and stock purchases. Cancel unused subscriptions. Create buying rules (e.g., only restock after selling 70% of existing inventory or buy in bulk based on historical use) and implement stocktakes.
4. Rebuild a Buffer
Start a weekly or fortnightly ‘tax stash’ account where you park a percentage of revenue to cover GST, PAYG, and super. This avoids painful surprises later. You can aim to put aside 10% of your income for GST and use calculators on the ATO’s website to calculate the PAYG. For Superannuation, it’s 11.5% prior to 30 June 2025 and 12% post 1 July 2025 of gross pay (wages + PAYG).
5. Set Weekly Financial Check-Ins
Even a 15-minute review each week of your numbers, booking software reports, and financial position can stop things from snowballing. Make it a non-negotiable.
6. Re-engage Your Client Base
Your existing clients are your goldmine. Focus on rebooking strategies, loyalty offers, offering memberships for monthly recurring revenue and upsell systems that will stabilise your income faster than chasing new leads.
Final Thoughts
No one starts a beauty business thinking about insolvency. But if you want to protect the dream you’ve worked so hard to build, you need to run your business with eyes wide open.
The most profitable and fulfilling beauty businesses aren’t just beautiful, they’re financially fit. And that kind of success is always within reach when you make smart, steady decisions from the ground up.
@jadestart_
Grow my Team or Go Solo ?
By Jay Chapman
Salons come in all shapes and sizes, from pocket-sized microbusinesses to bustling teams of epic proportions. What’s the sweet spot for you? Making the most of your current size, or taking a leap and expanding your team? Should you stay the same or should you grow your business? Let’s take a look at the pros and cons, because there’s lots!
There’s always risks associated with growing your business, especially when it comes to employing team. Wages are usually your biggest expense and wages are attached to PEOPLE! And people can be... well... hard bloody work!
As with almost every salon dilemma, you (the salon owner) are the problem AND the solution! And growing your business is a choice! So, what’s the attraction of a bigger team?
We hair and beauty people are pack animals. We do our best work when we bounce off one another, share ideas, support and confide in each other. Studies show that people looking for work in our industry are often drawn to salons with bigger teams. There’s a perception that bigger salons have a proven model, stronger client base, plus better conditions and opportunities for staff. (Not always true but anywho!)
When you decide to grow your team, your profit margin is one of the first things to consider. Overheads will be growing, superannuation will soon hit 262526% or whatever it is, the tax man is getting hungrier and more greedy, commercial rents are chubby and staff know their entitlements inside-out and back-to-front (just as they should).
All this adds up to your baseline expenses being high. The revenue a pocketsized salon needs to turn over each week to break even and stay afloat is creeping up, chewing away at already-thin profit margins.
Across the hair and beauty industry, profit margins vary massively. Between 10% and 25% is pretty standard but leaves next-to-no wriggle room if you are not careful with how you grow.
Because of the above reality, we’ve seen a huge trend of salon owners and employees opting for in-home set-ups. And why not? No more travelling to work, car parking or massive rents! Not to mention the obvious advantage... NO workmates to deal with!
Then there’s the downside. The monotony of working where you live and the isolation that comes with being a “onesie” doesn’t cut it for many in our “social butterfly” community. Plus! When you really crunch the numbers and manage your money properly, the margins ain’t that crash hot in the end!
Sure you have great flexibility, but you still need to pay tax in the business and personal tax, put money away for your retirement in superannuation, have an accountant and bookkeeper, pay for your products, put money aside for your holiday pay and for when you’re sick, you have your bank fees, eftpos, software fees... Plus a lot of clients expect a lower price point because they are having a service done in a small operation or from someone’s home.
So, what IS the solution? Many salon owners contact me seeking advice and clarity around what is the right next step for them. Together, we unpack what’s really happening in their salon, take an honest look at what’s possible, and get clarity around the best and most logical steps forward.
Sometimes, the best option is to stay AND grow but this really comes down to what your vision is for your career and business! You can train your salon team in a way that creates a more streamlined environment, enabling you (the salon owner) to step back while your team does their thing. I know that I always wanted a team around me because I have a very specific skill set, and I need people to plug those gaps so we could be the complete solution.
I know for sure that having only one, two or three team members can be a false economy. One team member leaving (for whatever reason) creates a huge hole in your salon’s earning capacity. And that can be paralysingly stressful! I found my profit margin, stress levels and balance was at a sweet spot at around 8 members.
Choosing to have a micro salon with a very small team means your business is in a higher risk category. You just need to own that risk and work with it. Done right, it’s a profitable business model. I’ve worked with many “micro category” salon owners with thriving, profitable, safe and sound businesses.
Small-scale is not for everyone. If you feel the pull to grow but don’t know how to move forward on it, start by understanding the FIVE things most likely to be holding you back from growing to where you want to be.
1. Slow momentum: This takes many forms, most commonly a simple lack of business smarts around when, how and why to grow a salon business. You simply get stuck, typically in a frustrating “one step forward, two steps back” rhythm.
2. False safety: You find yourself in the perfect, safe sweet spot! 2 members and everything running just fine. The truth is, once you settle for “just fine”, you stop trying and everything slows down. You need to keep pushing forward, always planning for your next team
member and keeping your marketing machine cracking!
3. Lack of planning: Few salon owners expand to having a big team and thriving business without a plan and clear goals. The bigger your business, the more crucial it is for you to stop stabbing in the dark and start planning for where you want to be. Fast-growing businesses are not based on winging it.
4. Stuck on the floor: The bigger your team, the more time you need to spend on the backend of your business. Working 40+ hours each week cutting hair or in the beauty room is a tick-tocking time bomb for any growing salon business.
5. Comfort zone: We’re all human. We’re hard-wired to opt for the path of least resistance through life. When you have a team to keep busy with clients and a culture to keep aligned, you have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable.
At any given time in your business, you have two choices, step forward into growth or step back into safety. Both are valid choices. But if you do desire to grow, know this... everything you have ever wanted begins just one step beyond your comfort zone. The only things holding you back are the walls you build up around yourself. The good news? You built them, you can also knock them down.
Growing a business and being self-employed is challenging no matter what size salon you have. You just have to pick the challenge that’s right for you based on the pros and cons and the risks!
Jay is a specialist salon coach at Your Growth Coaches. For more salon wisdom, visit the YGC website www.yourgrowthcoaches.com.au
How Small Acts Create Big Shifts in Beauty Business Culture
By Elle Huempel
I’ve written often about leadership excellence and building success through structure. But this article, I want to talk about something quieter, and I feel even more powerful.
It’s not always the extravagant strategies or fancy systems that transform a salon. It’s the small things, the subtle, consistent, intentional actions that build the culture, shape client experiences, and create a space where team members want to stay and grow.
It’s the things that often go unnoticed, until they’re missing.
THE
CONSULTATION
IS MORE THAN JUST A CHAT
A client’s consultation is one of the most underrated powerhouse moments in our industry.
When performed with care and meaning, it sets the tone for the entire experience. It tells the client: You matter. I’m listening. I care about getting this right. What is it I can do to make this not only the best experience for you but address your main concerns? That moment of connection builds trust and when people trust you, they come back. And THAT is how loyalty is created!
It doesn’t need to take long. A simple system, like asking three targeted questions or using a visual reference, can ensure the consultation is never skipped or rushed. Simplified habits like consulting at eye level, pace and body language all reduce miscommunication and lead to higher satisfaction, better retail recommendations, and long-term loyalty.
EVERY TEAM MEMBER WANTS TO FEEL VALUED
I often hear how do I get more motivation from my team? But motivation isn’t something we pull out of people; it’s something we create.
And one of the best ways to do that is to recognise the effort your team already puts in.
Not just in formal reviews or awards nights, but day-to-day. When you notice someone handling something out of their comfort zone, give them feedback. When a team member helps out without being asked, let them know it mattered.
A little recognition goes a long way in building a workplace people want to stay in.
A BUSINESS BUILT ON CONSISTENCY
Clients don’t just return because of results; they return because of how you made them feel.
Was their name remembered at the front desk? Was their towel warm? Were the acknowledged when they were walked past? Did the team communicate clearly and kindly? Was their treatment explain to them? And was this delivered at their last appointment, and will they receive this service at their next appointment?
These aren’t extravagant touches. They’re part of creating a consistent experience that feels professional, polished, and cared for. When clients know what to expect, and you deliver it with genuine attention, they relax. They trust you. And they tell their friends.
EDUCATE, DON’T PUSH
One of the most common questions I get is:
“How can I get my team more confident with rebooking or closing a sale?”
Guess what? we don’t sell, we educate.
When you deliver genuine care, expertise, and tailored advice, it’s no longer about pushing products or appointments. It’s about offering the level of service your beautiful clients deserve.
When your team understands this, the fear of the “sale” fades. Instead, they speak with confidence, and clients respond with trust. And funnily enough it’s also not work, you are doing everyday what you love, and clients feel that energy and appreciate it.
This is what I know best, do best, and love to coach so you and your team can deliver your best, too.
WHAT DO YOU SEE WHEN YOU LOOK AT THE APPOINTMENT BOOK?
It’s a simple question, but a powerful one. Ask your team at your next team meeting. Most people answer: Bookings, gaps, who’s working or how busy the week looks, when is my lunch break. But the real answer is Opportunities.
Your appointment book isn’t just a schedule. It’s a window into your business’s potential.
Every gap is a chance, to rebook, to upsell, to train, to connect. Are services aligned with team goals? Are clients being rebooked at the right time? Are upgrades and retail being offered? Are sales opportunities being followed up at reception?
When your team reviews the book daily with intention not just to see who’s coming in, but how to make the day more productive, growth naturally follows.
So next time you find yourself or someone else starring at the appointment book, ask yourself Am I seeing what’s there… or what could be?
If you’re looking to bring more consistency, connection, and growth into your business through the appointment book, stronger consultations, or a more united team, I would love to support you.
Sometimes the biggest opportunities are already right in front of you, you just need to look at what you look at everyday but differently.
Email admin@ellebusinesscoaching.com.au
Back to Basics! How Beauty Brands Can Navigate a Sales Downturn.
sales are softening. Australia’s economy entered 2025 on a recovery trajectory, although inflation remains a consideration for discretionary spending. Within the Beauty & Wellness industry, post-pandemic selfcare trends have cemented themselves, with notable increases in both product and servicebased wellness spending.
Structural changes are also evident: Adore Beauty’s expansion into brick-and-mortar retail signifies confidence in a blended physical and digital beauty retail environment, while none of the major franchise players opened new locations across the quarter. In response, many brands are now reassessing their strategies and returning to what made them successful in the first place.
If these powerhouse companies are experiencing a downturn, it’s a reminder that fluctuations in sales aren’t necessarily a reflection of your business doing something wrong. Economic shifts, changing consumer behaviours, and market saturation can all impact revenue. The key to resilience? Going back to what works and stabilising your core offering.
What Your Brand Can Do During Tough Economic Times
Rather than chasing the next big thing, now is the time to refine your strategy and lean into proven successes. Here’s how:
Identify the products or services that have consistently delivered strong sales and brand loyalty. These are your reliable revenue drivers— the ones that stockists and customers return to time and time again. Prioritise these over experimental or niche offerings.
2. Go All in on What Drives the Most Revenue
Instead of spreading resources thin across multiple initiatives, focus on amplifying the areas of your business that bring in the highest return. Whether it’s hero products, signature treatments, or best-selling services, dedicate your marketing, sales, and operational efforts to reinforcing these strengths.
3. Avoid ‘Shiny Object Syndrome’
It’s tempting to jump into new product development (NPD) or introduce another distribution channel in hopes of increasing sales. However, launching new products or venturing into untested markets during a downturn can be risky. Instead, optimise and strengthen what’s already working before introducing additional complexity.
4. Increase Touchpoints with Loyal Stockists
Your stockists and existing partners are already invested in your brand. Strengthen those relationships through increased communication, targeted promotions, and additional education or training. A proactive approach can help drive more sell-through at the retail level and reinforce your value to their business.
Sales downturns are an inevitable part of business, but they don’t have to spell disaster. By refocusing on your core offerings, reinforcing your strongest revenue streams, and resisting the urge to chase trends, you can navigate uncertain times with stability and confidence.
When in doubt, remember, success leaves clues. If a product, service, or strategy has worked for your brand in the past, it’s likely the key to future resilience as well.
@insideindustryconsulting @tamarareiddd
1. Drill Down on Consistent Performers
Face it, the Founder Era is here!
By Keira Maloney – The Salon Photographer
If you’ve got a business, and a face - this one’s for you.
I know how it is. You open Instagram to post a Reel, and suddenly it’s:
• Three hours gone
• Five drafts recorded
• Zero videos posted
You’ve spiralled. You’ve analysed every blink, every “um,” every slightly offcentre background plant. You tell yourself you’ll post it tomorrow, when you feel more... ready. And the next day? Same thing.
But here’s the thing: your business doesn’t need a perfect Reel. It needs you. And right now, showing up online as the founder of your business isn’t just “nice to have”, it’s a non-negotiable, and I’ll tell you why….
Hot take: People don’t buy from Canva templates. They buy from people. We are deep in our “please, no more perfect” era. The overly curated feeds? The beige aesthetic with one carefully placed latte? We’re done.
Trust is the currency now, and faceless brands? Flat broke.
Here’s the deal:
81% of consumers won’t buy from a brand they don’t trust.
82% are more likely to trust a business if the founder shows up on social media.
So if you’re hiding behind stock photos and hoping your logo will do the talking… babes, it won’t.
After working with a heap of beauty, wellness, and coaching brands, I’ve seen what actually works. And spoiler alert: it’s not the stiff, awkward “professional” photos where you look like you’re about to deliver a TED Talk on spreadsheets. It’s the candid shots, it’s you, being a normal human, showing up with real energy, doing what you do best.
Did you know that Instagram posts with human faces get 38% more likes and double the impressions (Random Labs, 2024). Also, 77% of people prefer to buy from brands they follow on socials. And if they’re already following you? They want to trust you; they just need to see your face to believe you.
Add in the fact that 71% of people are now worried they can’t trust what they see online thanks to AI, and 83% think AI content should be clearly labelled (Quirk’s Media) … so showing up as the founder isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s a survival strategy.
So no, you don’t need to rehearse a 12-slide pitch deck or learn TikTok dances. You just need to show up. Talk to camera. Share a story. Laugh at yourself. Be wildly, wonderfully human.
Because that’s what cuts through now.
Not a filter. Not a font. You.
Visibility isn’t just about bookings. It’s about impact.
Okay, sure, showing up might be the difference between someone booking a treatment or clicking out of your website. But zoom out for a second. What if your visibility is the reason someone else starts?
Think about it: someone out there is quietly watching your stories, your behind-the-scenes posts, and unfiltered updates. They’ve got the dream, the idea, the fire, but no real example of what’s possible - Until they see you.
You showing up, might be the thing that makes someone believe they can do it too. You stop being just a business owner. You become proof.
The reason a person sticks it out through their apprenticeship. The reason a therapist finally raises her rates.
The reason someone opens their own space, because they saw you do it first.
You’re not just selling a service. You’re showing people what success can look like in this industry. So yes, show up for the bookings, but also, show up because someone out there needs to see what’s possible.
You’re not “too small” to be seen
Let’s kill the myth that founder visibility is just for million-dollar brands and TED Talk types. In reality, it’s the solo operators, the creative misfits, the people doing things differently who benefit most from showing their face.
Because you’re not trying to reach everyone. You’re trying to reach your people. So, if you’ve been waiting for the perfect timing, the right lighting, or a more polished version of yourself, stop. Just show up.
You could be the reason someone books. Or better yet, the reason someone dares to back themselves and start. Because when we see you, we believe we can do it too.
Keira, @the_salonphotographer
BEAUTY shop
Beauty Beds with both Style and Performance
By Comfortel
Comfortel’s electric beauty beds offer smooth, effortless adjustments with medically approved motors.
Nova Treatment Table - Stone: Meet Nova – the star of smart beauty beds, radiating brilliance and futuristic comfort.
Designed for salons that blend style with performance, it features three motors for seamless positioning. Nova delivers nextlevel luxury and indulgence your clients will love..
Vista Treatment Table - White:
Discover Vista – where serenity meets strength and minimalist elegance meets performance. With two motors and foot control, it offers effortless elevation and ergonomic comfort. Perfect for spa rituals or treatments, Vista is your sanctuary of soft-touch support. www.comfortel.com.au
Jasper Beauty/Hair Salon Trolley By Joiken
A chic white finish - a perfect blend of sophistication and functionality designed for salon professionals.
With its 7-tier structure and 6 spacious drawers, you’ll have plenty of space for tools and products. The collapsible side shelves maximise your workspace, while drying and tint bowl holders keep everything organised and easily accessible. The flat top serves as a sleek platform for your essentials. “Additionally, it comes with an anti-slip mat to enhance product stability.”
Transitioning between clients is seamless with the easy-rolling castor wheels. The handrail is built for durability and sturdiness, making this trolley a valuable investment in both efficiency and style. Transform your salon into an organised and elegant environment with the Jasper Hairdressing/Beauty Salon Trolley, a must-have for enhancing your professional space and client experience.
www.joiken.com.au
Apple Black Current Supergreens By The Collagen
Co
Apple Blackcurrant Super Beauty Greens is everything you’re looking for in a greens supplement ... and more. Alongside plenty of leafy Organic Greens, expect phytonutrient-rich Superfoods, digestion-supporting Pre and Probiotics, uplifting Herbal Extracts, and beauty-boosting Hydrolysed Collagen Peptides. www.thecollagen.co
NEW Men’s rage By Biodroga
Men’s skincare has transitioned from being seen as unmanly to becoming essential for a well-groomed appearance. With thicker skin that is prone to irritation and ages quickly, men require tailored products. Biodroga’s new Men’s line is practical and straightforward, offering multiple benefits to help men easily maintain healthy skin. Designed for efficiency, this range enables men to look their best without spending too much time on their routine.
www.biodroga.com.au
The Naturals Signature Lash Clusters – Collection By MODELROCK
MODELROCK’s Signature Lash Clusters ‘The Naturals Collection’ offer the perfect solution for all eye shapes. Expertly crafted & meticulously handmade, these clusters – an OG MODELROCK design - provide an ideal balance of depth and dimension, blending seamlessly with your natural lashes for a full appearance without added weight. The secret? The superfine, ultra-thin lash band that delivers a lightweight, comfortable and barely-there feel! Available in 3 different styles with 5 options to choose from, each cluster is reusable, offering both quality and sustainability in eyelash enhancement!
www.modelrocklashes.com
To Trend or Not to Trend?
By Kayla Zigic – Social for Salons
How to Tell if the Latest Reels Trend Is Right for Your Salon’s Strategy
Let me start off with a question.
Have you ever been scrolling through your fave social media app and consistently seen the same social media trend? (Insert the current propaganda trend where everyone verbalises what propaganda they are and aren’t falling for.) If you haven’t seen it, go and type “propaganda” into your socials search bar. And you think to yourself, “Should I be using that too?” or maybe you’ve seen a post talking about content trends currently circulating the big, wide world of socials, and you’re left asking yourself the same thing: “Is this something I should be doing?”
It’s a hot debate. Some people will tell you that jumping on trends is essential for growth. Others say they’re a waste of time and energy. So, what’s the truth?
From a social media strategist’s perspective, I’m going to tell you this… And I want you to really listen. When it comes to using “trends,” the “trends” aren’t actually the problem, but using “trends” without a strategy is. Let me explain.
Here’s the thing: if your trending video goes viral but doesn’t bring in a single new client or inquiry, was it really worth the effort? (Spoiler: the answer should be no)
From a strategic point of view, every single piece of content you post should have a purpose, a goal, that’s either to entertain, inspire, educate, or promote to your audience. The purpose shouldn’t be to go viral.
The Attraction of a Trending Reel
I get it; trends are popular for a reason, just like Mac’s Signature lipstick Snob in the 2000’s or tadpole eyebrows… It blows up for a while, then it fizzles out, which is why they are called trends. Social media trends are usually quick, easy, and fun and offer the promise of a visibility boost. When done right, they can help you appear on more screens and be discovered by new people. But here’s where it can go a little pear-shaped — trending content is often broad. Meaning it might not attract your ideal client or local audience. In fact, salons that go viral with content that is quote-on-quote “trending” generally reach people overseas or outside their service area. Think you’re living in Mt Isa, and you go viral with 90% of your views coming from Utah. What’s the point of going viral if the people who have seen it can’t even book with you? So yes, the view count going up might feel exciting, but it doesn’t fill your books.
Am I saying not to use trends at all? No, that’s not what I’m saying. I’m saying do the trend, but make it strategic to your salon or spa because every trend you do should always (and I mean always) link back to your overall social media goals and objectives.
Before even creating the “trending” content, you need to ask yourself, “What is the goal here?”
• Am I trying to book or promote a specific service?
• Do I want to educate my clients?
• Is this trend relatable to my ideal audience?
• Will they see themselves in this content? Can they connect with it?
If the answer is yes, go for it. Use the trend but make it your own. However, if the trend feels forced, off-brand, or doesn’t tie into what your salon, spa, or clinic offers, you may skip it. You don’t need to follow the crowd to grow online. You need to connect with the right people.
Trends can work brilliantly when they’re tailored to your niche.
It’s not about copying trends. It’s about adapting them to tell your story.
Note: This type of content might not always “go viral,” but it builds trust, positions you as the expert, and attracts clients who are ready to book. It’s about how you can strategically entertain, educate, inspire, and promote yourself and your salon or clinic,
Be Intentional
At the end of the day, trends come and go — but your brand message is what sticks.
Use trends with intention. Make sure they support your salon’s goals, speak to the people you want to attract, and don’t get caught up in the viral view count. This is what we call a vanity metric, looks good on paper but doesn’t bring $$$ through the door or conversations in your inbox.
So, yes, post the trends but be purposeful and strategic xx @socialsforsalons
Kayla Zigic
Subject Lines That Should Be Retired.
By Rachel Medlock
I’ve written thousands of subject lines over the past decade — for beauty brands, skin clinics, tech disruptors, skincare giants, and lifestyle darlings and there’s one truth that holds across every campaign: A subject line will make or break your email marketing campaign.
It’s the first impression. The click decider. The thing that gets you opened, ignored… or worse, reported as spam.
While most conversations focus on what to do with subject lines, I want to take a moment to talk about what not to do because some of the subject lines I still see out there? They need to be lovingly escorted off the stage.
Here are the ones I think we can safely retire:
The Broken Personaliser
Example: {{NAME}}, we’ve got something for you!
Personalisation is powerful… when it works. When a broken merge tag shows up instead of a name? Oof. It doesn’t feel warm. It feels like your software’s having a bad day. Always do a test email before you hit send.
The Sneaky Reply
Example: RE: Your skincare consult
Sure, it grabs attention, but it also tricks people into thinking they missed something. Also, your email providers? They’re onto it. Gmail will flag you faster than you can say, “crappy click-through rate.”
The Shouty One
Example: RACHEL! LIMITED TIME OFFER!
Why is everyone yelling?! Caps lock might feel urgent, but to your reader, it sounds like being shouted at by a car yard sale sign. Tone it down. You can be exciting without giving inflatable arm man energy.
The Generic Snore
Example: [Brand Name] - Weekly Newsletter
We already saw who it’s from in the “From” field. Save those characters for something more compelling — like what’s actually inside the email. Also, if the most exciting part of your subject line is “weekly,” it might be time for a rethink. Generic = forgettable, and forgettable = unopened.
The Deceiving Sneakster
Example: 75% Off Everything!
Spoiler alert: I opened it and it was one serum. One!
Nothing breaks trust like a bait-and-switch. If your subject line promises the world and delivers a sample sachet… people notice and don’t forget. Don’t risk your brand integrity over a Vitamin C Serum.
The Hannah Montana
Example: You’re Invted to Our Launch Event
Did you spot it?
As our queen Miley once said: “Everybody makes mistakes; everybody has those days,” but subject lines? They need your full attention. One rogue typo can tank your credibility. I get it; we’re all human, but professional campaigns deserve one last proofread or an extra set of eyes over it before you hit send.
The Copy-Paste Pre-Header
Example:
Subject: Ready for better skin this winter?
Pre-header: Ready for better skin this winter?
Your pre-header is your subject line’s sidekick. If you copy and paste the subject line into it? You’ve wasted your second shot at grabbing attention. Instead, use it to add context, tease what’s inside, or layer in value.
Now you’re pulling them in twice — not repeating yourself.
So… have you written one of these before?
Same. Zero judgment. The world won’t end over an average subject line, but if you want ones that actually get opened, clicked, and maybe even screenshotted as inspo, download my free guide: Subject Lines That Slap. Inside, you’ll get the 10 top-performing styles I’ve used across beauty brands, plus a tool to help you write your own.
Grab your copy at rachelmedlockcopywriting.com.au
Rachel Medlock
Knowing Your Worth !
By Angeli Marie Shaw
As a therapist, one of the most powerful things you can do for yourself, and your business is to know your worth. Not just in terms of self-esteem or mindset (although those are incredibly important), but in the literal sense, your pricing. Yes, we’re talking dollars. Charging appropriately for your services isn’t just a business move, it’s a declaration that your time, talent and training matter. And trust me, they do.
Too often I see therapists, especially those newer in the industry, undervalue themselves, whether it’s out of fear of losing clients, not wanting to seem “too expensive”, or just not knowing where to begin when it comes to pricing. But here’s the truth: pricing isn’t just about numbers. It’s about respect. Respect for your craft, your journey, your skills, and the incredible value you bring to each client that books with you.
Let’s break it down and explore how you can confidently charge your worth, and most importantly, WHY you should.
You’re not just “doing a service”, You’re Changing Lives.
Think about the last time a client left your space beaming, standing taller, glowing with confidence. That’s not “just a facial.” That’s transformation! Whether you’re creating a tailored treatment program, treating skin concerns, or giving someone the fresh look they’ve been longing for, you are using years of training, instinct, and technical skill to deliver something powerful. When you undercharge, you diminish the magic in that moment. And it’s not just the service you’re offering, it’s the energy, expertise, and care that you pour into every appointment. That is not something to be discounted!
Pricing reflects your experience and expertise.
The truth is that your pricing should reflect your journey. Whether you’ve been in the industry for two years or twenty, your prices should grow with you. Have you done additional training? Specialised courses? Built a loyal clientele? Created a signature treatment or service? Those things matter.
Years in the industry = wisdom. And wisdom = value.
Just as a doctor or lawyer wouldn’t charge the same rate fresh out of university as they would 10 years into their profession, neither should you. As your skills sharpen, your pricing should adjust accordingly. This isn’t arrogance, it’s growth! Skill has value, so price accordingly. One thing I always say: charge based on your skill, not your fear. It’s easy to second-guess yourself when you’re raising prices or launching a new service.
But if you’ve invested time, money, and energy into becoming exceptional at what you do, then own it. A highskill therapist delivers consistency, solves complex problems, and knows how to make magic happen under pressure. These aren’t beginner-level capabilities. Clients are not just paying for the time you spend on them. They’re paying for everything you’ve learned to be able to perform at that level.
The cost of doing business (Literally).
Let’s be real, running a business or being selfemployed comes with real costs. From products and tools to rent, utilities, education, and insurance, your pricing needs to cover more than just your time. When you undercharge, you’re eating into your profit margin, and often your own wellbeing. This leads to burnout, resentment, and financial stress. You deserve to be compensated fairly and feel financially secure in your business. Work backwards if you need to. Calculate your business expenses, desired income, hours worked and break it down into what you actually need to be charging per service. Numbers don’t lie! Once you understand them, you’ll price with confidence.
It’s not just business, It’s boundaries.
Knowing your worth is also about setting boundaries with clients. You’re not available 24/7. You don’t “squeeze in” last-minute requests if it compromises your day. And you don’t give discounts just because someone asks or puts the pressure on. Boundaries are part of your pricing too. They’re the invisible line that says, “I value my time, and you should too”. The clients who respect those boundaries are the ones who stick around long term.
Communicate with Confidence.
If you’re planning to raise your prices or restructure your services, communicate it with professionalism and confidence. You don’t need to justify or apologize for it. A simple, clear message is enough:
“To reflect my continued training, years of experience, and rising operational costs, my pricing will be updated from [date]. I’m so grateful for your continued support and can’t wait to keep creating magic with you.”
Remember, people pay for what they value. Your dream clients want quality and consistency, not cheap shortcuts. Don’t be afraid to lose a few who don’t align, because you’ll gain the right ones in return.
You Set the Standard.
When you stand firm in your worth, you give others permission to do the same. You raise the standard, not just for yourself, but for the industry as a whole. Imagine a world where every therapist felt empowered to charge appropriately, without guilt or fear. That’s the kind of industry we should all want to be part of. One built on respect, selfvalue, and real recognition of our training.
So, if you’ve been second-guessing yourself, let this be your sign! It’s time to charge your worth. Not just because you deserve it, but because you’ve earned it!
As always, I believe in you.
Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo
Angeli is a former salon owner and Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor/Trainer and founder of The Bliss Coach. To work with me 1:1, organise group training or book me as a speaker in 2025, get in touch by visiting www. theblisscoach.com.au or follow me on my socials @ theblisscoach to connect and find out more.
