Mocha Beauty Year 18 Issue 4 by mochagroup

A LASH LEGACY

The Story of Zoe and Otto Mitter

THE 2025 ABIA CATEGORIES

INDIVIDUAL CATEGORIES

Junior Therapist of the Year

Beauty Therapist of the Year

Dermal Therapist of the Year

Business Director/Owner of the Year

Best Cosmetic Tattooist

Sole Operator of the Year (ABN Registered)

EDUCATOR CATEGORIES

Best Industry Educator Individual

Best Industry Educator Organisation

Best Industry Educator of the Year Product/ Equipment Company

NEW!! Best Business Coach of the Year

SPECIALIST CATEGORIES

Best Marketing Award

Best Customer Care Award

Salon/Spa/Clinic Team of the Year

Best Salon/Spa/Clinic Training Award

Best Business Performance of the Year (non-salon)

SALON CATEGORIES

Best Salon/Spa/Clinic Design

Best Newcomer Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

MAKE UP CATEGORIES

Bridal/Formal Make Up Artist of the Year

Editorial/Session Make Up Artist of the Year

STATE CATEGORIES

4 Treatment rooms or Less & 5 Treatments rooms or more

NSW/ACT Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

VIC /TAS/SA Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Yearr

WA/NT Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

QLD Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

MAJOR CATEGORY

NZ Beauty Salon/Spa Clinic of the Year

AUSTRALIAN Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year (4 Treatment rooms or less & 5 treatment rooms or more) (Determined from winners of state categories)

NOMINATED CATEGORIES

Hall of Fame

Mocha Angels Humanitarian Award

BEAUTY SQUAD Team of 4

VOTED CATEGORY

State and National Wholesaler of the Year

The Skinformé Academy

42 The Business of Beauty By Brooke Clarke

46 How Phorest Software Supports Skin Clinics Behind the Scenes

MATTER OF FACT: Skincare That Performs with Purpose

K-Beauty Meets Clinical Power: INSKIN COSMEDICS Launches Dr.esthé Spicule Treatments in Australia

52 Unleashing the Power of Skin Recovery: Dermalogica PRO’s Exo Booster!

54 Beauty meets Biotech with Goddess

55 The Rise of the Freelance Beauty Professional, Navigating a New Era of Independence 56 The Future of Hair: Rejuvenation Has Arrived. And it all starts in the scalp

The Regrets No Woman Can Afford By Elle Wilson

AHPRA Guidelines By James Vivian

Turning a Dream into a Reality By Danni Boaerma

True Confessions of the Only Boy at Beauty School By Will Fennell

62 Not Just Reception: How Front of House Drives Culture, Clients & Consistency By Elle Huempel

63 The Future of the Beauty Industry Depends on You (Yes, You) By Tamara Reid 64 How to Build a Regional Beauty Powerhouse Without Selling Your Soul By Carly Knowles

66 We All Want New Clients By Jay Chapman 68 How Healthy is Your Beauty Business? By Cait Muir

70 The 4 Psychological Stages of Buyer Readiness, and How to Use Them in Your Social Media Content By Angela Dickson 71 What Branding Photography showed me about Women in Beauty By Keira Maloney

72 Rethinking Skin Health in Perimenopause and Postmenopause By Chiza Westcarr

Negative Feedback: How to turn it into a

EDITOR’S

PUBLISHER

Linda Woodhead linda@mochagroup.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER

Jarred Stedman jarred@mochagroup.com.au

EDITOR

Louise May louise@mochagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Nina Barbara nina@mochagroup.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Kellie Woodhead kellie@mochagroup.com.au

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Brittany Murton brittany@mochagroup.com.au

ADMINISTRATION

Jess Richmond jess@mochagroup.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise May

Rachel Medlock

Jade Murray

Kat McCann

Mr Vivek Eranki

Karen Geiszler

Alanna Douglas

Gay Wardle

Brooke Clarke

Elle Wilson

James Vivian

Danni Boerma

Will Fennell

Elle Huempel

Tamara Reid

Carly Knowles

Jay Chapman

Cait Muir

Angela Dickson

Keira Maloney

Chiza Westcarr

Angeli Marie Shaw

OFFICE

PO BOX 252 Helensvale Plaza Qld 4212 P: 07 5580 5155

mail@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au

DISTRIBUTION

Australia Post - Print Post 100005498

PRINTING Printcraft

PUBLISHED BY mochagroup

PUBLISHERS OF mochahair, mochabeauty & mochabarber

Mocha Beauty is published six times a year by mocha publishing ABN 65 091 846 189

No Part of the publication may be reproduced in any manner or form without written permission. Mocha Beauty does not accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies, original artwork or other material. The views expressed in Mocha Beauty are not necessarily those of the publisher.

No responsibility will be accepted if the publication is delayed or prevented by factors beyong the control of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for errors in copy, or for any loss arising from the failure of an advertisement or any part thereof to appear.

Issue 4 is here, and it’s a good one!

We’re thrilled to welcome our second Guest Editor, the incredibly talented Rachel Medlock. Not only is Rachel one of the sharpest beauty copywriters in the business, she brings with her a deep understanding of brand storytelling and tone, something we believe is the soul of any beauty business. Her voice is real, refreshing, and full of impact, and I know you’re going to love the perspectives she’s brought to these pages.

As we settle into the second half of 2025 and the new financial year, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect. So many of us start strong in January, full of goals and ambition, but by mid-year we’re often too deep in the day-to-day to zoom out and take stock. This is your reminder to do just that. Revisit your vision, your numbers, your wins. Reset. Re-align. And most importantly, keep going.

One of the best ways I know to truly see your business is through entering awards, and with the ANZ Beauty Industry Awards (ABIAs) just around the corner, I can’t help but feel the buzz. Whether it’s your first time entering or you’re a seasoned finalist, the process itself is powerful. It’s not just about taking home a trophy. It’s about clarity, accountability, and growth. A deep dive into where your business has been, where it’s heading, and how you’re showing up for your clients, your team, and yourself.

I’m beyond excited for Beauty Expo Australia, happening 18–19 August in Sydney. There’s nothing quite like the energy of that weekend, connecting with brands, discovering new innovations, and bumping into the faces behind some of our favourite businesses. And of course, the ABIA Gala Night on Sunday at The Star Sydney is always a night to remember. Celebrating talent, tenacity, and trailblazers, it’s one of the highlights of my year.

This issue is packed with incredible stories, expert insights, and real conversations from within our beauty world. From the latest in clinical aesthetics to holistic treatments, branding, and beyond, there’s something here for every beauty professional who wants to learn, evolve, and lead with heart.

We’re here to spotlight not just the shine and success, but the strategy, soul, and stories behind it. Here’s to kicking off this financial year with clarity, courage, and community.

Let’s keep building something beautiful, together.

Louise May, Editor - Mocha Beauty Magazine Editor in Chief - Mocha Group

16-17 AUG 2025

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GUEST EDITOR’S LETTER

When I was a kid, I didn’t write in a diary. I wrote stories. Fullblown holiday recaps with dramatic headlines, critical reviews of theme park hot chips, and an editorial tone that made absolutely no sense for a ten-year-old. At 13, one of my poems was published in Dolly magazine, and I’m fairly sure it was the last time they ever printed poetry.

Writing didn’t make me the coolest kid in the schoolyard, but it was mine. A way to hold onto magic, organise the chaos, and evoke feeling in its reader.

Not much has changed.

Now, more than a decade into calling this my job (that kid would be smug as hell), putting pen to paper still feels like home. It’s how I untangle big ideas, capture the heart behind a business, and help others say what they’ve been meaning to.

In our industry, the best ones always come with a bit of grit, a lot of heart, and a fire that doesn’t burn out.

That’s what I set out to capture in this issue.

Lauren Wells, Founder of The Facial Co Skincare spoke openly about what it means to walk away from something you love and what calls you back. This wasn’t a relaunch story but one of purpose, identity, burnout, and rebuilding on your own terms.

Rachel Stevens, CEO of Circadia Australia, broke down circadian rhythm disruption, but more powerfully, held up a mirror to the habits draining those who give everything to others.

Dermal Therapist and Educator Lainie Porter shared her lowand-slow approach to RF microneedling for rosacea and melasma — a quiet rebellion against the idea that high-tech must mean high aggression.

Angeli Shaw has officially farewelled The Bliss Coach to make space for something bigger. If you’ve ever felt the weight of leading a team in today’s climate, this one’s for you.

Lia Trebilcock, Director of Skin Educational International, brought it back to basics, reminding us that when you focus on skin function first, the results follow. In a world chasing the next big thing, her message was a steady, needed pause.

Jessica Giraldi of Professional Beauty Solutions and I unpacked handheld skin technology not just as a business strategy, but as a creative tool to design facials that feel distinctly yours.

Lastly, I wrote about the role your copy plays in building connection because when your words reflect who you are, they speak directly to the people who need you most.

Every one of these stories reminds us all why words matter. Why our industry deserves stories told that respect the work, that don’t gloss over the grit, and make you feel proud to be a part of it. Thank you to the Mocha team for holding space for these kinds of stories, and for having me as Guest Editor.

Our industry is full of brilliance, guts, strategy, and soul. I hope you find a little of all of it in these pages.

Rachel Medlock

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You’re Not Bad at Marketing Your Words Aren’t Working.

By Rachel Medlock - Guest Editor, Mocha Beauty

You’ve posted the reel, begrudgingly danced to the trending audio, booked the rebrand, signed up for the course, and rewritten your treatment menu in your Notes app while eating a protein bar in your car. So why does planning your marketing still feel like trying to fix dehydration with micellar water?

Maybe it’s the awkwardness that creeps in when you try to talk about what you do. Perhaps your captions feel beige. Your website doesn’t quite sound like you. Every time you try to explain your treatments, you catch yourself using the same recycled spiel as every other clinic on the internet.

It’s frustrating and it’s exhausting.

You’ve built something worth booking, so why doesn’t it sound that way?

The thing is, you’re not bad at marketing. Your words just aren’t doing their job.

Marketing without a message is just noise

There’s a lot of pressure in this industry to show up online.

You’ve been told to “show your face, but not too much.”

To “stay consistent, but don’t over-post.”

To “tell your story, but don’t make it about you.”

To “build trust, but keep it professional.”

That’s great advice until you sit down to write and realise you don’t know what to say or how to say it.

You end up staring at a blinking cursor while your brain offers you the same sentence you used last week. You tweak a few words, you upload it anyway, and you get the same result.

This is where so many clinic owners get stuck. They don’t need to try harder. They need clarity and connection — the kind that comes from words that speak directly to the right person.

Marketing without that? It’s just noise.

You can’t connect with someone you haven’t met

Your words either reflect the world of your dream client, or they don’t. If they don’t, they’ll move on. That’s a messaging problem.

Before you write anything, you have to know who you’re speaking to.

Not vaguely. Not “women 25 to 45 who like skincare,” and for the love of glowing skin, it’s not “everyone”.

Once you know who they are, you need to know what your dream client believes, desires, fears, scrolls past, leans in for, and absolutely cannot stand. You need to know how they talk, what keeps them up at night, and what they’ve already convinced themselves no one can help with.

Now, your tone of voice stops being a guessing game and starts becoming a bridge to connection.

If you confuse, you lose

There’s this unspoken pressure to prove yourself with words. To sound polished. Professional. Qualified. You start stacking up ingredients, modalities, and skin functions. Suddenly, your facial reads like an

academic abstract, but the thing is, you’re not writing to impress your competitors or present a thesis.

You’re trying to talk to a real person; one who’s sitting on their couch, in their pyjamas, trying to decide if they trust you enough to touch their face.

Your dream client isn’t waiting to be impressed. They are waiting to feel understood.

If they have to read your copy three times to understand it, they’re gone.

If they don’t see themselves in your descriptions, they won’t reach out.

If they feel like your brand is talking to someone else entirely, someone with more money, more knowledge, or more flawless skin, they’ll assume your space isn’t for them.

Copywriting isn’t about the fanciest words. It’s about the right words. The ones that make your dream client exhale. The ones that sound like something they would say to a friend. The ones that permit them to put themselves first.

The job of your words is to create connection

That’s it. That’s the job.

To create a moment, however brief, where your dream client feels seen. Where they read something on your website, in your caption, or your email, and think, “That’s me.”

Sometimes that happens through highlighting pain points, like they’re sick of their skin reacting to everything, scared to ask questions because the last clinic made them feel dumb, or simply overwhelmed by choice and secretly hoping someone will take the lead.

Sometimes it happens through joy (aka pleasure points). Think radiant skin for their wedding, investing in her self-care after years of coming second, skincare that feels like a ritual, not a routine.

Whether your clients are driven by pain or pleasure, your words should meet them exactly where they are and gently guide them toward where they want to be.

That’s what good copy does. It doesn’t shout. It doesn’t show off. It doesn’t sell through fear or fluff. It invites them to imagine the version of themselves after investing in that product or service.

So, what now?

If you’ve read this far, you’re probably not someone who’s ignoring their marketing. You’re in it. You care. You’re trying.

That’s the part no one sees — the hours spent rewriting captions, tweaking treatment names, trying to sound confident when truthfully, you’re exhausted.

Start by coming back to your dream client. Not the demographic tick-box version. The real person. The one sitting in their car after school drop-off, looking at their skin in the rearview mirror, wondering if anyone can actually help. The one reading your menu at 11pm, comparing five open tabs.

What do they believe about their skin? What are they sick of hearing? What do they secretly hope is true?

Then take a look at your current copy and ask yourself — is that who I’m talking to? Or am I trying to sound like every other clinic with a candle and a clean font?

From there, match your tone of voice to theirs. If your dream client values honesty and education, don’t tiptoe around results. If they’re craving calm, don’t overcomplicate your messaging with jargon and noise. Like attracts like, speak their language.

And please, showcase your point of difference. There’s no shortage of clinics offering treatments for acne, pigmentation, or ageing. What makes yours worth booking?

Don’t gatekeep your secret sauce.

If your consultation style is different, say that. If your treatment blends science with serious nurture, explain how. If you go beyond the skin and offer holistic support, put that into words. Don’t make them guess why you’re special. Show them.

You don’t have to rewrite everything overnight. Pick one place to start — the page that comes to mind when you think of this message disconnection.

That might be your most booked service. Read the description through their eyes. Does it clearly explain the benefit? Does it reflect your tone of voice? Or does it sound like it could belong to any clinic, anywhere?

Or it might be your About page. The one that still sounds like the version of you who opened in 2010, before you evolved, specialised, and grew a waitlist. If it doesn’t feel like you anymore, that’s where your rewrite begins.

The point is to start—one page, one rewrite, one clearer message. When your messaging is aligned, you stop overthinking every caption. You stop trying to explain your value in the DMs. You stop hearing “I didn’t realise you offered that” after someone’s been following you for six months.

Your website finally sounds like your clinic. Your treatment menu makes sense to people who aren’t therapists, and your content brings in the exact kind of client you’ve been dreaming about.

They get it, they get you, and that means they’re ready to book, trust, and stay.

You’re not bad at marketing. Your words need to match your worth.

Reframing Skin Tech from the Palm of Your Hand

By Rachel Medlock - Guest Editor, Mocha Beauty

Advanced technology in skin clinics has long been associated with high-ticket, high-commitment machines, but for many therapists, particularly those building from the ground up, that version of innovation can feel out of reach. What’s often overlooked is the quiet confidence that comes from starting small and using strategic tools that not only add to a treatment but amplify it.

Handheld professional devices aren’t new, and their impact has never been about novelty. It’s about accessibility, flexibility, and the therapist’s ability to offer something exceptional, without needing to overhaul their business model.

According to Jessica Giraldi, Head of Education at Professional Beauty Solutions, handheld devices remain one of the most under-utilised assets in the industry. Not because they don’t work, but because we’re still unlearning the idea that smaller means simpler.

“There’s a misconception that handheld means basic,” Jessica says. “But professional-grade tools are often made with the same clinical innovation as larger systems. In fact, many use identical technology to their full-size counterparts. The results speak for themselves.”

She points to Bio-Therapeutic’s use of Suzuki Sequencing; a proprietary technology found across both their full-size and handheld devices known as bt-GEAR. It’s designed to ensure consistent microcurrent delivery, stimulate ATP, and support cellular function. The difference isn’t in the performance; it’s in the therapist’s confidence to use it intentionally.

That confidence starts with understanding what handhelds can actually offer, not just in results, but also in revenue. When strategically integrated, Jessica says handheld tools can increase facial value by 15–20% through addons like ultrasonic cleansing, technologyenhanced extractions and microcurrent lifting and sculpting. These upgrades don’t require extra time, only extra thought. They let therapists do more with what they already have.

Importantly, they also meet the moment.

Post-pandemic, Australian consumer behaviour has shifted. In treatment rooms across the country, we’ve seen clients craving more than just change in their skin; they’re looking for connection, care, and a sense of being cared for. Despite this, we’re in a cost-of-living crisis and nurturing alone isn’t enough. Clients want results they can see and value they can understand without losing the warmth that brought them through the door.

For therapists, handhelds allow both sides of that equation to be met. The addition of gentle

ultrasonic movement during cleansing, or microcurrent to finish a sculpted massage, can increase the perceived value of a service without interrupting the flow. They’re tactile, responsive, and noticeable, enhancing what’s already happening in the treatment room, rather than replacing it.

“It’s not about adding bells and whistles,” Jessica says. “It’s about reinforcing your skills with tools that support better skin outcomes and better client conversations.”

But those conversations need to happen. One of the most common mistakes, Jessica explains, is not explaining what a device is doing. Without that education, clients often don’t understand why something has been added, which makes it harder to quantify its value or recommend it for home use.

apart. In an industry where menus can often feel interchangeable, it becomes the thing you’re known for.

“If clients don’t know what the tool is doing, they won’t value it,” she says. “It’s important to explain the technology and the benefits in simple, clear language.”

Beyond results, education becomes the foundation of trust. It opens the door for deeper conversations about skin goals, long-term support, and strategic rebooking — the kind of connection that doesn’t hinge on a single facial but builds the foundation for a lifetime client relationship.

For newer clinics, handhelds offer a clear path forward. They help create consistency, increase confidence, and build a recognisable treatment identity from day one. More than that, they provide the tools to shape something every clinic needs — a signature.

A signature is the thing clients associate with your brand. It’s built on your philosophy, your touch, and the thoughtful details that set you

When used with intention, handheld technology becomes a creative tool that helps you design those signature details. It might be the way you cleanse, the quiet precision of how you infuse finishing products, or a unique step that’s always present, no matter the skin type. These are the things clients remember, the reason they rebook and the reason they tell their friends.

“Therapists can build advanced, multi-step facial protocols that feel completely their own,” says Jessica. “You don’t need to follow someone else’s formula. You can build something distinctive that reflects your brand and your values.”

In the end, your most powerful marketing tool isn’t a reel; it’s what happens on the bed, in the room, when your touch, your tools, and your treatment philosophy come together.

Skin technology doesn’t have to be flashy to be effective; sometimes, it just has to be held with intention and used by hands that know exactly what they’re capable of.

The Founder Reminding us that Burnt Out can have a Comeback Story!

By Rachel Medlock - Guest Editor, Mocha Beauty

It’s easy to romanticise beauty brand ownership. Instagram tells us it looks like viral unboxings, dreamy dispatch stations, and thousands of orders dropping daily. The reality? Tears at the post office, burnout in activewear, and wondering if stepping away means it’s all over.

Lauren Wells, founder of The Facial Co Skincare, knows that tension intimately. She built a business that felt aligned, until it didn’t. Then, after a four-month hiatus that was meant to be permanent, she did something many business owners don’t allow themselves to do. She came back.

When Lauren closed her brand, it wasn’t a business decision; it was a necessary full stop in a season that demanded space.

“I felt a huge shift in my priorities after having baby no. 2,” she shares. “Trying to find time for both of my children, my relationship, my home, myself, it was just a lot. Being present at home is incredibly important to me. At that moment, it felt like stepping away from my business was the only option to help clear some of the clutter in my life.”

The anxiety was real. Seeing orders come through and feeling unable to fulfil them straight away began to wear her down.

“It would keep me up at night,” Lauren admits. “I’d worry I was letting people down. That’s when I knew something had to change.”

It’s a reality many founders know but rarely say out loud: the dream of running a business can begin to feel like a trap if the demands outgrow your capacity to hold them.

For Lauren, pressing stop (or what would become a ‘pause’) was raw, necessary, honest and in that space, something shifted.

“The time away gave me the opportunity to get clear on my evolving goals and my ‘why’,” Lauren says. “I wanted to be everything for everyone, but if you try to offer everything, you never become known for anything.”

That idea, ‘being known for something’, has become a louder conversation in the industry over the past year. We’re seeing a rise in the emphasis on niching, and as Lauren’s story shows, it can be the answer to reclaiming clarity in a space that constantly pushes us to do more, offer more, and show up for everyone.

That meant returning to the original purpose of her range: a sensitive-skin-focused collection that genuinely represented the needs of sensitive and sensitised complexions. She’s now relaunched with five core products — a cleanser, three serums, and a moisturiser.

It wasn’t strategy that lured Lauren back to business. It was art.

“I lost my creative outlet,” she explains. “I’ve done so much of what you see in The Facial Co. The website, label design, packaging, and marketing. I love that part of it. When I was running out of my own Golden Hour Glow Oil, I thought, ‘If I’m missing it, others must be too.’ That was the spark.”

The spark soon became a slow-burning flame, one that grew as Lauren took steps to recalibrate her energy and rebuild her identity beyond business and motherhood.

That’s the part we don’t see on the grid — the background work, the rebuilding of a person before the rebuilding of a brand.

For anyone nodding along, quietly burning out behind a polished Instagram grid, Lauren has a reminder.

“It’s okay to step back. To re-evaluate. To redefine what you want. You can always come back,” she says. “There are no rules, only the ones you create for yourself. Breaking your own rules is actually really liberating.”

She’s under no illusions that what’s seen online reflects the reality of business ownership.

“Everyone’s situation is different; financially, personally, emotionally. Just because someone’s grid looks perfect doesn’t mean they’re not struggling behind it,” she adds. “Focus on what you can control. Protect your peace.”

Running a brand isn’t always empowering. Sometimes it’s exhausting, and it asks too much; the best thing you can do for your business is take a step back for a while.

The Facial Co Skincare is back. Not because it had to be, but because Lauren wanted it to be. That difference matters. It’s not about reclaiming relevance. It’s about reclaiming herself.

In doing so, she’s giving beauty founders everywhere a powerful permission slip to pause, to pivot, and to come back, even when you thought you never would.

And no, it doesn’t make you less of a founder. It makes you a human one.

@thefacialco.skincare

Lauren Wells

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exfoliation. Exo Booster works deeper, directly enhancing the skin’s natural repair and renewal mechanisms. Its vegan, Lactobacillus-derived exosomes provide longer-lasting effects than human- or plant-based exosomes, offering sustained support for six days post application. This efficiency makes it one of the most powerful and advanced exosomepowered treatments available.

Salons set to save on everyday expenses with exclusive perks and discounts program from Timely

Timely has launched a new perks and discounts program for customers in Australia and the UK, proving once again why it’s the country’s leading salon software platform.

The programme is designed to help salon professionals save on everyday business essentials, with exclusive discounts from trusted brands like Foil Me, SalonFirst, and Your Leasing Co.

“We all know there’s a cost of living crisis, but we hardly ever talk about the ‘cost of doing business’ crisis, ” says Sherri Ponisi, ANZ Partnerships at Timely.

“We created this program as a practical way to support our customers. It’s about more than discounts — it’s about building long-term value for our community.”

Active Timely customers can access exclusive discount codes just by logging into their account. And just one week into the program, many Timely customers have already started redeeming offers and reaping the benefits — a sign that the program is filling a real need in the market.

Costs are on the rise for hair and beauty businesses everywhere. Which is why Timely is actively working to expand the programme into New Zealand by adding more partners and bringing value to even more business-owners.

“Timely’s here to help make running a salon easier in every way. Not only by cutting down on admin or bringing in new clients, but by easing some of those little everyday costs that can really add up over time, ” says Sherri. “This perks and discounts programme is our way of doing just that.”

Learn more about the programme and the latest savings at www.gettimely.com/exclusive-perks-and-discounts

Advanced Skin Technology and Cosmedix Hosts Exclusive Industry & Media Events in Melbourne and Sydney

Advanced Skin Technology recently welcomed COSMEDIX’s global leadership team to Australia for a series of immersive brand experiences. The tour kicked off with two exclusive clinic education events - first at The Wool Mill in Melbourne, followed by The Ivy in Sydney. More than 50 skincare professionals and industry leaders attended both events, connecting with COSMEDIX Global Vice President Lauren Ahearn and Associate Director of Education Courtney McClendon. The U.S. based delegates led in-depth sessions showcasing COSMEDIX’s latest innovations, including:

• COSMEDIX ELITE DUO A – a 1 % Retinoid treatment developed in collaboration with Advanced Skin Technology specifically for the Australian and New Zealand market

• COSMEDIX Deep Sea Peel - a next generation non acid resurfacing treatment that delivers both instant luminosity and long term rejuvenation

Following the clinic events, COSMEDIX hosted a Media Day Takeover at SELF by The Parlour Room in Randwick, Sydney. Sixteen leading beauty editors and content creators were treated to personalised clinical facials, one on one time with the U.S. leadership team, and tailored brand education. The event provided a luxurious, science led introduction to the next evolution in clinical skincare - reinforcing COSMEDIX’s reputation as a results driven and innovative professional brand.

Distributed locally by Advanced Skin Technology (AST), a leader in cosmeceutical distribution across Australia and New Zealand, COSMEDIX has earned a cult following for its performance based skincare, transformative peels, and clean, clinical approach. With over two decades of proven results, the brand continues to set the benchmark in clinical skincare innovation.

To learn more www.advancedskin.com.au

Introducing the Mixology Toolkit by Circadia Australia. Your all-in-one professional blending station

It is an absolutely mesmerising tool you can utilise to WOW your clients, as you truly showcase the power of custom skincare.

Don’t Just Offer Treatments. Deliver Experiences. Think of it as an investment for your clinic!

The Mixology Toolkit turns you into a skincare alchemist. Every blend you create on the spot makes the client feel seen, heard, and valued—and that’s what keeps them coming back. Whether you’re formulating on the treatment table or sending clients home with a bespoke mask, this sleek, compact system lets you mix, blend, and personalize every treatment with ease.

The Toolkit Includes: A robust design, complete with a latching lid and ergonomic carry handle, ensures a mess-free and organized experience, whether in your spa or on the go, 4 removable, sterilizable mixing bowls, Built-in storage for stir sticks, brushes, and tools, Spacious drawers to hold 4x4s, gua sha tools, ice globes, and more. Dedicated compartment for samples or other take-home supplies. For more information email sales@circadia.com.au

The aesthetic and beauty industry is in the midst of a radical transformation, and at the heart of this shift is Gen Z. Born between 1997 and 2012, this generation is driving a powerful new movement—one that prioritises authenticity, inclusivity, and conscious consumption over perfection and traditional beauty norms. For clinics, brands, and beauty professionals, adapting to these preferences isn’t just smart—it’s essential.

1. Skin Over Sculpt: The Rise of Skinimalism

Forget heavy contouring and high-maintenance regimens—Gen Z is embracing a more natural, skin-first approach. The trend of “skinimalism” favours fewer products and more results, with a strong focus on barrier health, hydration, and preventative treatments over invasive correction.

What This Means for Clinics: Offer treatments like LED light therapy, gentle peels, and skin-boosting injectables such as mesotherapy or baby Botox. Pair these with education-led skincare retail strategies.

2. Transparency and Trust Trump All Gen Z consumers want to know exactly what’s going in and on their bodies. They value brands that are honest about ingredients, processes, and ethics. Greenwashing and overpromising are major turnoffs.

What This Means for Brands: Transparency in formulation, ethical sourcing, and clinic practices is key. Certifications and open communication build trust. Skincare consults should feel more like collaborative conversations than hard sells.

3. Diversity Isn’t a Trend—It’s a Standard

From gender inclusivity to broader skin tone representation, Gen Z demands that the beauty world reflect real-world diversity. They look for brands and clinics that make space for everyone, not just a narrow definition of beauty.

What This Means for Businesses: Expand treatment offerings to suit varied skin tones and types. Use diverse models in marketing. Offer gender-neutral service menus. And ensure your team is trained in cultural competence and inclusive care.

4. The Digital-First Generation

Gen Z’s beauty inspiration lives on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, not in glossy magazines. They follow skinfluencers, watch behind-the-scenes content from clinics, and are influenced by real-time reviews more than advertising.

What This Means for Marketing: A strong, authentic digital presence is non-negotiable. Short-form video content, real client journeys, and educational, entertaining posts help build loyalty and relevance.

5. Preventative Aesthetics & “Tweakments”

Rather than waiting for signs of ageing, Gen Z is entering the aesthetic world earlier, with a focus on subtle, preventative measures. Non-invasive treatments like dermal hydration, PRP, and low-dose neuromodulators are growing in popularity.

What This Means for Practitioners: Educate this audience on safe, age-appropriate procedures. Position your clinic as a wellness destination, not a “fix-it” shop.

6. Wellness-Driven Beauty

For Gen Z, outer beauty is an extension of inner wellness. They’re looking for aesthetic providers who understand the link between stress, lifestyle, and skin health.

What This Means for the Industry: Integrate wellness elements—think infrared therapy, meditation, nutrition advice, or holistic skin coaching—into your business model. Align your brand with mental health, mindfulness, and balanced living.

Final Word: Evolution, Not Imitation

Gen Z isn’t rejecting beauty—they’re just rewriting the rules. This is a generation of informed, curious, socially aware individuals who want services and brands that see them. To remain relevant, the industry must evolve from glam to grounded, from perfect to personal. In the world of aesthetics, the future is less filtered—and more real.

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ABIC Launches National Menopause Aesthetics Division to Elevate and Regulate Hormonal Aesthetic and Beauty Care in Australia

The Aesthetic and Beauty Industry Council (ABIC) has launched a first-of-its-kind initiative: the Menopause Aesthetics Division, a new strategic division aimed at defining, protecting, and elevating aesthetic care for clients experiencing hormonal changes.The Division introduces and formalises Menopause Aesthetics as an Industry category, one that is rapidly expanding due to client demand but remains largely unregulated. This initiative will ensure that clinics, practitioners and brands engaging with menopausal clients do so with clear ethical standards, certified training, and best-practice frameworks.

Governed by a national Menopause Aesthetics Committee, the Division will lead the development of:

• A Code of Ethics for menopause-related advertising and marketing

• Client-first consultation guidelines across beauty, dermal and medical practice

• Validation and endorsement of existing menopause education programs

• Public campaigns to promote safe, qualified care within aesthetic spaces

“This initiative isn’t just about raising standards, it’s about protecting access,” said Stefanie Milla, ABIC’s CEO and Founding Director. “When we lead with ethics and evidence, we not only protect women, but we also protect our industry from being shaped by those who don’t understand it.”

ABIC is currently calling for medical practitioners, nurses, dermal and beauty therapists, educators, and allied health professionals to apply for positions on the founding Committee. The role is open to qualified professionals in dermal therapy, cosmetic nursing, general practice, wellness, allied health and professional education.

This is a national call to shape the foundation of an emerging field that will define the future of skin, beauty and client trust.

To apply or request further information visit www.theabic.org.au/abic-aesthetic-menopause-committee

CO2Lift: Carbon Dioxide Skincare Innovation Arrives in Australia

Australian clinics seeking fresh, resultsfocused additions to their treatment menus now have access to CO2Lift –a carbon dioxide gel mask developed in the USA and distributed locally by Beauty Technology. The mask has earned global attention in professional circles for its ability to deliver deep hydration and visibly refresh the skin without downtime.

CO2Lift utilises a unique delivery system where carbon dioxide gel technology is applied to the skin, creating a cooling and soothing experience. Rather than focusing on therapeutic outcomes, this advanced cosmetic mask is designed to enhance the look and feel of the skin, leaving it visibly smoother and revitalised. It’s particularly suited to clinics seeking a premium add-on to facials or energy-based treatments, or as a retail product for clients wanting to extend their in-clinic results at home.

A key appeal of CO2Lift lies in its versatility. The formulation works across different skin types and integrates easily into existing protocols, from preevent facials to post-treatment hydration support. With growing international recognition – including use by well-known celebrity facialists and red-carpet preparation teams – CO2Lift is carving out a niche as a luxury hydration solution that fits seamlessly within modern, non-invasive beauty trends. For clinics looking to stay competitive in an evolving market, CO2Lift offers a fresh talking point for clients who value innovation and elevated skin experiences.

Distributed by: Beauty Technology | info@beautytechnology.com.au | www.beautytechnology.com.au | @beautytech.anz

Rethinking Skin Rejuvenation:

Why Fibroblast Is the Future — and How to Master It the Right Way

In the ever-evolving world of aesthetics, it’s easy to get swept up in the latest trends. But some treatments aren’t just a passing phase, they’re redefining how we approach beauty and age management. One such innovation is Fibroblast skin rejuvenation, a treatment that’s not only transforming skin but also transforming careers.

What Is Fibroblast — and Why Is It So Effective?

Fibroblast (also referred to as plasma skin tightening) is a non-surgical, toxin-free procedure that uses tiny electrical arcs to create precise ablation dots on the skin. These dots stimulate collagen, elastin, and the skin’s natural healing response, leading to firmer, smoother, more youthful skin. Think: softened wrinkles, lifted eyelids, tighter jawlines, and dramatically improved texture without injectables, fillers, or downtime-heavy lasers. Unlike many conventional treatments, Fibroblast supports the body’s own regenerative powers, making it the go-to choice for clients who want real results without looking ‘overdone.’

Why Proper Training Matters (More Than You Think) Here’s the truth: Fibroblast is an art and a science. And while the treatment may seem simple on the surface, its effectiveness and safety are directly tied to the practitioner’s technique, education, and understanding of the skin.

At The Australian Academy of Fibroblast, they’ve spent years developing a training system that goes far beyond the basics. Their curriculum is one of the most comprehensive on the market, covering seven distinct Fibroblast techniques, in-depth skin science, facial mapping, safety protocols, and advanced treatment planning for diverse skin types. But what truly sets them apart?

They don’t just teach the treatment. They teach the business.

Their Fibroblast training programs include dedicated business coaching designed specifically for this niche. They help their students build luxury service offerings, refine pricing strategies, create high-converting content, and confidently position themselves as elite professionals, because the world doesn’t need more “beauty techs.” It needs leaders.

The Results Speak for Themselves

Their graduates consistently go on to build successful businesses, becoming local authorities in skin rejuvenation and trusted alternatives to injectables. Many transition out of discount-heavy services and finally claim the freedom they started their careers for, doing work that’s deeply rewarding, both financially and emotionally.

And because they offer both in-person and destination training, students from around the world can learn with them in beautiful, curated environments that support learning, rest, and transformation.

This Is More Than Skin — It’s a Movement

Fibroblast is more than a treatment. It’s a philosophy. It celebrates the natural. It empowers both clients and artists. It offers subtle, elegant results that respect the integrity of the face, and the intelligence of the body.

If you’re ready to offer something different, something grounded in science, aligned with beauty, and supported by elite education, Fibroblast might just be your next best move.

They’d love to welcome you into their global community of trained professionals who are setting a higher standard in aesthetics.

www.academyoffibroblast.com.au

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A Lash Legacy: The Story of

Zoe and Otto Mitter.

The Power Couple Behind Elleebana’s Global Rise.

From a humble studio on the Gold Coast to over 60 countries across the globe, Elleebana has become a name synonymous with innovation, integrity, and inspiration in the lash and brow industry. This year, the brand celebrates an extraordinary milestone: 30 years in business. At the heart of this Australian-born success story is not just a world-renowned product line—but a couple whose shared vision, resilience, and love for their craft transformed a dream into a global legacy.

In the ever-evolving world of beauty, standing still is not an option. But building something that endures and continues to lead? That takes something rare—passion, purpose, and perseverance.

How It All Began

Elleebana’s story began as many great entrepreneurial tales do—with a dream, grit, and a deep love for the industry. Originally a small familyrun business on the Gold Coast, it has blossomed into an international powerhouse, guided by husband-and-wife duo Otto and Zoe Mitter. Otto, a second-generation makeup artist and beauty educator, was raised in a world of beauty and artistry. With a drive to elevate salon treatments through science and innovation, he became a qualified cosmetic chemist—combining creativity with technical precision to create cuttingedge formulations that would set new industry standards.

The turning point came with Elleebana’s launch of the One Shot Lash Lift—the world’s fastest lash lift system. It wasn’t just a product—it was a revolution. Beauty professionals around the globe finally had a system that delivered consistent, beautiful results quickly and safely.

From there, Otto continued to innovate. With products like Elleeplex Profusion and ReGEN, a bond-repair treatment that nourishes and protects lash health, he helped transform lash lifting from a niche service to a global phenomenon—proving it could be not only safer than extensions, but also more in demand in the clean beauty era.

A Partnership That Redefined Possibility

While Otto pioneered the product innovation and led global education, Zoe joined the company at a pivotal moment in its evolution—bringing structure, strategic foresight, and a razor-sharp sense of branding and business development.

As CEO, Zoe restructured the company’s operations, streamlined systems, and cultivated a strong internal culture, giving the business the stability it needed to scale. But their greatest growth came through shared effort. Together, Otto and Zoe expanded Elleebana’s international footprint—personally cultivating long-term relationships with distributors and educators across six continents. From hands-on training events and strategic global tours to fostering

deep connections with leaders in the industry, they built more than a distribution model—they built a global family rooted in trust, innovation, and shared success.

Their dynamic, though unconventional to some, has become a powerful formula for success. It’s a relationship built not only on love and mutual respect but on a shared mission—to uplift, to empower, and to lead with authenticity.

Global Impact, Local Roots

Today, Elleebana has a presence in over 60 countries, supported by a passionate team of more than 300 global educators. The brand has proudly earned over 32 international awards, celebrating excellence in education, product innovation, and brand leadership. These accolades reflect not just commercial success, but the profound impact Elleebana has had on lash and brow professionals around the world.

Yet, despite its global reach, Elleebana remains deeply rooted in its Australian heritage. Otto and Zoe have never lost sight of the values that set their brand apart—innovation, education, and community.

Their commitment to giving back has remained a central part of their journey. Whether it’s through mentorship, philanthropy, or championing industry talent, Zoe and Otto continue to lift others as they rise.

Looking Ahead

As Elleebana celebrates three decades of influence, the momentum continues. With new product releases, evolving formulations, and advanced education programs always on the horizon, the brand remains firmly positioned at the forefront of the lash and brow industry.

But more than growth, it’s the mission that fuels them.

“Success to us isn’t just about expansion,” Zoe shares. “It’s about creating something meaningful—something that helps people believe in themselves, build their futures, and feel part of something bigger.”

Otto adds, “We’ve always believed that when you lead with passion, and you’re willing to do the work—big things can happen. Elleebana is living proof of that.”

In a world where trends come and go, Elleebana stands tall—a beacon of excellence built on love, loyalty, and lash artistry. And at the heart of it all is a couple who dreamed together, worked together, and created a legacy that continues to inspire the world.

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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.

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• A brilliant alternative to microblading and tattooing, which fade over time.

• Cost-Effective for Salons: 100+ applications per bottle.

VEGAN

Nurturing Confidence, Culture and Care: Inside The Beauty Base

By Louise May

From a single salon born out of a love for beauty therapy to a thriving multi-location brand known for its results-driven skin focus and unwavering commitment to team culture, The Beauty Base has grown into something truly special. At the heart of that journey is founder Carrin Treacy, whose grounded leadership, people-first approach, and deep belief in connection have shaped not only the client experience but the loyal team that stands behind it.

Now with four bustling locations and a longstanding partnership with INSKIN COSMEDICS (O COSMEDICS), The Beauty Base continues to evolve while staying anchored in the values that have defined it from day one: care, consistency, and community.

In this chat with Mocha Beauty Editor Louise May, Carrin Treacy shares the story behind the brand’s growth, how she fosters therapist loyalty in an ever-challenging industry, and what’s next for this purpose-led business.

Let’s start at the beginning. Tell us a little about you how did The Beauty Base first come to life, and what was your vision when opening the very first location?

When I first began this journey, it was simply about doing what I lovebeing a beauty therapist and helping people feel confident in their own skin. I never set out with a big vision or grand plan, it’s all grown so organically and for that, I’m truly grateful.

The most rewarding part has been the genuine connections I’ve made - both with our beautiful guests and the incredible team I’m lucky to work alongside every day. I’m surrounded by people who go above and beyond and supported by a community that’s cheered us on from the very beginning, including our amazing centre management and neighbouring businesses.

You’ve recently expanded into your fourth location under The Beauty Base brand congratulations! What has driven your growth, and how have you maintained consistency across each space?

Thank you! I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of the Narellan community since the centre first opened. Being in such a rapidly growing area has certainly played a role in our journey.

That said, growth hasn’t always been smooth - it’s come with its fair share of highs and lows.

What’s kept us grounded is staying true to our core values and genuinely caring for every guest and team member who walks through our doors.

I’m always open to learning, listening to those with more experience and staying ahead in this ever-evolving beauty industry.

Building and retaining a high-performing team is one of the biggest challenges in our industry. What’s been your approach to creating such strong therapist loyalty?

It all comes down to care and communication. When you truly care for your team, they care in return and that ripple effect creates a really special dynamic. I’ve always wanted my salons to be a safe space. Somewhere my team can leave their worries at the door, feel supported and know they’re part of something bigger. We’ve grown together over the years, many of them I’ve seen start their careers, start families and now I get to watch their journeys continue.

They’re truly like family to me.

You’re known for having a vibrant and positive team culture. What values or practices help keep that strong, especially as you grow?

I think it’s about leading with honesty, humility and consistency. We don’t believe in hierarchy here. Whether you’re in upper management or just starting out, we’re all equal and we all support each other. We show up for one another and that’s what makes our culture feel so genuine.

In an industry where burnout is common, what makes your team want to stay and grow with The Beauty Base?

I’d say it comes down to the human side of business loyalty, respect, empathy and trust.

We offer opportunities for our team to evolve into roles they’re passionate about and I love helping them chase their dreams. Their goals become my goals, and I’ll do everything I can to support them.

INSKIN COSMEDICS founder, Maria Enna-Cocciolone and Carrin Treacy from The Beauty Base

What does leadership mean to you personally, and how has your style evolved as your business has grown?

For me, leadership means leading by example. I’m not about telling people what to do, I’d rather show them.

It’s about walking alongside my team, not ahead of them. I try to lead with care, stay open-minded and treat everyone with respect. That’s helped shape the culture we’ve built today.

You’ve chosen to partner with INSKIN COSMEDICS (O COSMEDICS). Why was this the right fit, and what initially drew you to the brand?

At The Beauty Base, we’re all about delivering real results and building true skin confidence. When I discovered O COSMEDICS and the INSKIN COSMEDICS brand, it felt like finding the perfect fit for our salons and my passion in skincare. The INSKIN brands are scientific, clean and created by people who truly understand our industry.

Their formulations are powerful yet thoughtful and the partnership just felt right. Their support has been incredible from day one and they’ve played such a meaningful role in our journey.

What do you and your team love most about working with the INSKIN Cosmedics brands?

The education and support they provide is second to none. My team feels empowered to confidently prescribe skincare and help our guests achieve real, visible results.

The INSKIN team is always just a phone call away and that level of support means the world to me and my girls. My staff genuinely love working with their brands it makes a big difference.

With four locations, how do you ensure every guest still receives the signature Beauty Base experience?

We invest a lot in communication and training, and I always try to explain the “why” behind what we do. When the team understands the purpose, they’re more connected to the vision and the guest experience becomes second nature.

Looking ahead, what’s next for The Beauty Base? Are there any exciting plans on the horizon?

Right now, we’re focused on nurturing what we’ve built. Like many businesses, we’re feeling the current economic pressures, so our priority is to pour our energy into our four locations continuing to care for and educate our team, refining what we do best and delivering the most memorable experiences for our guests. We’ll use this time to grow stronger from the inside out.

How to Thrive as a Regional Beauty Entrepreneur.

By Jade Murray, LillyRose Beauty, Orange NSW

When I established LillyRose Beauty as a Sole Operator Clinic in Orange, NSW, 6 years ago, I quickly discovered that building a successful beauty business in regional Australia comes with unique challenges that metropolitan peers rarely face. The isolation from industry hubs, limited networking opportunities, and the constant battle to access the same resources available in major cities can feel overwhelming. However, over the years, I’ve learned that these apparent disadvantages can actually become your greatest strengths - if you know how to leverage them.

The regional beauty market is full of opportunity, but success needs something different than what works in Sydney or Melbourne. It needs creativity, resilience, and strategic thinking that goes beyond traditional business models. For Sole Operators like myself, every decision carries more weight, every relationship matters more, and every opportunity must be maximized.

The Reality of Regional Isolation

Industry events, training opportunities, and networking functions are predominantly held in major cities, making attendance both expensive and logistically challenging. The cost of travel, accommodation, and time away from the clinic, and my family, can quickly become prohibitive. This geographical isolation extends beyond just missing events though. It affects product access, limits peer-to-peer learning opportunities and can create a sense of professional loneliness that impacts growth and personal wellbeing. The industry thrives on trends, innovation, and collaboration, all elements that can feel very, very distant when you’re so far from the nearest industry hub!

However, I’ve learned that acknowledging these challenges is the first step to overcoming them. Regional operators who succeed are those who refuse to see distance as a limitation and instead view it as an opportunity to create something unique in their market.

Power of Metropolitan Mentorship

One of the most crucial decisions I made in my business journey was securing a mentor based in a metropolitan area in Danielle Renee of Bobbie Charles. Having someone with established connections in the industry, access to emerging trends, and experience with large-scale operations has been invaluable for my growth.

A metro-based mentor provides perspectives that regional operators often miss. They can offer insights into upcoming product launches, industry shifts, and business strategies that are being tested in more competitive markets. This knowledge allows you to prepare your business for changes before they reach your area, giving you a significant competitive advantage.

It also provides emotional support during challenging periods. Being a sole operator can be isolating, and having someone who understands the industry pressures, even if they don’t face the same geographical challenges, creates a vital support system that can complement local peers.

When seeking a mentor, look for someone whose values align with yours but whose experience complements your gaps. Don’t be afraid to reach out to successful operators in major cities, you might be surprised how many are willing to share their knowledge and often find the regional perspective refreshing and inspiring.

Using

Awards as Gateways for Growth

Participating in industry and local business awards has been a gamechanger for LillyRose Beauty, providing benefits that extend far beyond potential recognition. Awards submissions force you to document your achievements, analyse your business practices, and articulate your unique value proposition, exercises that strengthen your business foundation.

The networking opportunities surrounding awards programs are also so valuable for regional operators. These events bring together industry leaders and potential collaborators in one location, primed for networking, and I was even able to attend the ABIAs alongside the Bobbie Charles team as a result of my mentoring. While attending may require significant investment, the connections made can open doors that would otherwise remain closed. Awards submissions also provide goal-setting frameworks. The process of identifying what makes my business award-worthy never fails to clarify my strengths and highlight areas for improvement. Whether you win or not, the exercise of preparing a submission pushes you to elevate your standards and document your growth.

For regional operators, industry awards can also provide crucial third-party validation. When potential clients see that your business has been recognised as a Finalist or Winner alongside metropolitan competitors, it immediately elevates your credibility and justifies premium pricing that might otherwise be questioned in a regional market.

Community Engagement as Business Strategy

One advantage we have over metropolitan businesses is the ability to become genuinely integrated into our local community. In Orange, I’ve found that supporting local causes creates deeper client relationships and stronger business foundations than any advertising campaign could achieve.

My partnership with Ronald McDonald House has been particularly meaningful, both personally and professionally. Organising fundraising events, donating services, and participating in community initiatives has positioned LillyRose Beauty as more than just a business, we’re community partners.

This social responsibility creates emotional connections with clients that extend beyond transactional relationships. People want to support businesses that share their values and contribute to causes they care about. In regional areas, where word-of-mouth carries more weight than online reviews, this community integration becomes a powerful marketing tool.

Community engagement also provides networking opportunities within your immediate area. Local business leaders, professionals, and influencers often participate in charity events, creating natural connections that can lead to referrals and collaborations.

Leveraging Local Media for Maximum Impact

Regional media outlets are often more accessible and interested in local business success stories than their metropolitan counterparts. Building relationships with local journalists, radio hosts, and community publication editors can provide ongoing promotional opportunities that would be impossible to access in major cities.

Every business milestone whether it’s an award win, new service launch, or community partnership becomes a potential story for local media. These features provide credibility and reach that expensive advertising campaigns can struggle to match. Local coverage also tends to have longer shelf lives, as regional communities are more invested in supporting local businesses.

Jade Murray

When working with local media, focus on the community benefit angle rather than pure self-promotion. Stories about how your business contributes to the local economy, supports community causes, or brings metropolitan-quality services to regional areas resonate more strongly than straightforward business announcements.

Creating Memorable Client Experiences

In regional markets, client retention is crucial since our customer base is inherently limited. Creating exceptional experiences that clients can’t access elsewhere becomes essential for business sustainability. My Christmas VIP event has quickly become a cornerstone of client retention and business growth.

These exclusive events serve multiple purposes. They reward loyal clients, create opportunities for referrals, showcase new services or products, and generate social media content that attracts new customers. The investment in hosting these events pays dividends through increased client spending, improved retention rates, and enhanced brand perception. VIP events also provide opportunities to introduce higher-value services or products in a relaxed, social setting. Clients who might hesitate to book expensive treatments during regular appointments often become interested when they can experience them in a fun, pressure-free environment. The key to successful client events is making them genuinely special. This might mean bringing in guest speakers, offering exclusive discounts, or providing experiences that clients associate with metropolitan venues. The goal is to exceed expectations and create memories that strengthen client relationships.

Securing Exclusive Regional Partnerships

One significant advantage of regional operation is the potential to secure exclusive or semi-exclusive partnerships with premium brands. My partnership with Ultraceuticals as an exclusive regional stockist has provided competitive advantages that would be impossible to achieve in saturated metropolitan markets.

Exclusive partnerships provide several benefits: they eliminate direct competition for specific products, allow for better profit margins, and create unique selling propositions that attract clients from wider geographical areas. They also often include additional support from the brand, including training, marketing materials, and promotional assistance. When approaching brands for exclusive partnerships, emphasise your commitment to the area, your ability to provide personalised service, and your potential to develop the market. Many brands are interested in regional expansion but lack the resources to establish their own presence, making partnerships with established regional operators attractive.

Mental Health and Professional Connection

The isolation inherent in regional sole operation can significantly impact mental health and professional motivation. Developing strategies to maintain connection and perspective is crucial for long-term success and personal wellbeing.

Regular virtual connections with industry peers, participation in online professional groups, and scheduled metro visits for training or networking help combat the isolation. Setting aside budget and time for these connections is as important as any other business investment.

Creating local professional networks, even if they cross industry boundaries, provides important peer support. Other sole operators in different fields often face similar challenges and can offer valuable perspectives and emotional support.

Professional development through online courses, webinars, and virtual conferences also helps maintain industry connection and personal growth. The investment in continuous learning keeps you competitive and provides the intellectual stimulation that can be missing in day-to-day regional operation.

Embracing Regional Advantage

Success as a regional beauty entrepreneur requires acknowledging our unique challenges while strategically leveraging the advantages.

I think the key is refusing to see regional location as a limitation and instead seeing it as a strategic advantage that can create sustainable competitive benefits. With the right strategies, support systems, and mindset, we can not only compete with metropolitan operations but can often provide superior client experiences and business satisfaction.

Regional Australia needs successful beauty entrepreneurs who can provide quality services while contributing to their communities. By implementing these strategies and maintaining focus on both professional excellence and community integration, we can all build thriving businesses that prove distance is no barrier to success.

@lilly_rose_beauty

Stretch Marks vs Scars: Why

They’re Not the Same, And How to Tattoo Them Safely.

By Kat McCann

Stretch marks and scars are often grouped into the same category — especially in tattooing. But if you’ve ever worked with stretch marks directly, you’ll quickly realise they behave nothing like a scar. And if you treat them the same way? It’s easy to overwork the skin, misjudge colour retention, or create more problems than you solve.

As stretch mark camouflage becomes more requested — especially alongside skinstrengthening treatments and inkless revision — there’s a growing need for grounded, informed education. Because when you understand the skin’s structure, you don’t just tattoo better — you plan better, prep better, and deliver results that actually hold.

Not All Skin Trauma Is the Same

Scars form through trauma or surgery — the dermis is severed, and fibrotic tissue rebuilds in its place. This denser, collagen-rich tissue often holds pigment with relative predictability.  Stretch marks (*striae*), however, are a product of tensile stress. The skin stretches faster than its collagen and elastin network can accommodate, creating thin, weakened areas prone to fading, poor ink retention, or unpredictable healing. Some appear silvery-white and atrophic, while others remain pink or dusky for years — especially in hormonally sensitive zones.  This diversity means stretch marks can’t be approached with a one-size-fits-all mindset. They require careful preparation, gentle technique, and clear communication with the client from the outset.

The Integrity of the Skin Always Comes First

Refining Texture First: Why It Changes Everything

The most important factor in stretch mark tattooing isn’t pigment — it’s the quality of the canvas underneath.  If there’s insufficient collagen and elastin, there’s nowhere for pigment to settle reliably. Thin, crêpey areas may not only reject colour — they can highlight it.  This is where non-pigment skin prep becomes non-negotiable. Techniques like microneedling, exosome therapy or other regenerative modalities can: - Strengthen dermal structure - Smooth texture - Create more uniform pigment acceptance  Multiple prep sessions may be needed before the skin is ready for colour. Don’t skip this. It’s the prep work that determines the predictability of your results — and consistency is everything in this work.

Spacing Sessions and Setting the Pace

Stretch-marked skin heals slowly. Whether you’re doing inkless prep or introducing pigment, extended healing times of 8–12 weeks between treatments are recommended — especially for larger areas or hormonally influenced regions like the hips, breasts or abdomen.  Allowing time between sessions gives the body space to: - Regenerate collagen and settle inflammation Reveal true pigment retention patterns - Reduce reactivity before the next phase of work  Trying to fast-track results increases the risk of trauma, delayed healing or pigment shift. And while some clients may be eager to move faster, education is key — results are earned in stages, not shortcuts.

Introducing Pigment: Tone it Down, Float it In

Once the skin is showing signs of structural improvement, pigment can be introduced — gently and deliberately.  Rather than locking into a ‘one pass’ rule, it’s more accurate to say: “Work soft and shallow. Float the needle when needed. Match your technique to the skin you’re in.”  Use diluted pigments to veil the tone without saturating it. These soft-focus blends can be layered over time, allowing gradual improvements without overwhelming the skin.

It’s worth emphasising texture matters just as much as tone — and often more.  Even the most expertly matched pigment will fail to camouflage if the skin’s surface is uneven. Raised edges, crêpey centres or textural dips all catch and reflect light differently. This creates shadows or highlights that the eye notices — even when the colour looks correct.  When we refine texture first, we reduce the way light exaggerates the stretch mark. That’s what creates true softness and believability.

Ink Doesn’t Change — But Your Skin Might

One of the most overlooked realities of camouflage tattooing is this: your skin will continue to change — but the ink won’t.  This means: - If you tan, the pigment won’t tan with you - If your skin darkens due to hormonal influence, inflammation or sun exposure, the ink stays the same - If your texture changes, the pigment’s optical behaviour may shift too  Clients need to understand this going in. Stretch mark camouflage doesn’t freeze time — it blends what’s there, at that time. Ongoing skin changes can alter the look of the result down the track, which is why aftercare, sun protection and regular reviews are so important.

Stretchmarks commonly appear on the arms and legs — this image shows the leg area before treatment

Post-tattoo erythema is a typical short-term response, indicating healthy circulation and inflammation - this is immediately after tattooing the leg area

After - Healed results after exosomeassisted stretchmark revision. Improved texture, tone and skin quality

Titanium vs Melanin: Understanding Optical Interference

When you’re working with skin camouflage, it’s not just about what pigment you put in — it’s about how it behaves alongside the skin’s natural melanin.  Melanin is the skin’s natural pigment, responsible for tone and photoprotection. It absorbs light, which gives skin its depth and natural softness.  Titanium dioxide, on the other hand, reflects light — it sits higher in the dermis, doesn’t absorb light like melanin, and behaves more like a “mirror” in the skin.  When these two meet: - In darker skin, titanium can disrupt the visual balance — making areas appear cooler, ashier, or more opaque if not diluted properly - In lighter skin, where melanin is already sparse, titanium can dominate — resulting in a flat or “frosted” look, especially under direct lighting - In blended areas, too much titanium can interrupt the natural light absorption pattern of the skin — creating subtle, but noticeable “colour flash” when the skin moves or light shifts  This is why titanium-heavy pigments should be used carefully, diluted intentionally, and always matched to surrounding behaviour, not just static tone.

What This Means in Practice

Always observe how light interacts with the client’s surrounding skin before choosing pigment - For medium to deeper Fitz types, be cautious with any blend that relies on titanium for brightness - For fair skin, use dilution to reduce titanium’s opacity while still creating softness - Where possible, build layers gradually rather than relying on one concentrated deposit

Contraindications — When to Pause or Not Proceed

Not every stretch mark is ready — or suitable — for tattooing. Key contraindications include:  - Active inflammation, redness or infection in the area - Stretch marks that are still red, purple or unstable in tone (unless being treated with inkless methods only) - Current or recent steroid use affecting the area - Keloid or hypertrophic scarring history (especially in the stretch zone) - Ongoing pregnancy or significant hormonal flux Autoimmune skin disorders or extremely fragile skin presentation Unrealistic expectations or poor compliance with healing and aftercare  In these cases, it’s best to delay, refer, or reassess. Camouflage tattooing is an advanced skill that depends on stability, not urgency. Anyone can add colour — but real results come from knowing when not to. Stretch mark camouflage isn’t just a skill, it’s a judgement call.

Kat McCann

@katmccann_inka

What Clinics Need To Know: Botox and Antibiotics

By Mr Vivek Eranki

According to Mr Vivek Eranki, CEO of Cosmetique, Australia’s large chain of cosmetic, injectables and laser hair removal clinics, certain antibiotics can potentially impact the effects of Botox, and it’s important for clinicians to be aware of the risks.

Some Antibiotics Can Affect Botox

“Many patients worry that antibiotics may interfere with their Botox results. While this doesn’t often occur, it’s important to understand that some antibiotics can be problematic,” said Mr Eranki.

He explains that antibiotics are primarily used to target bacterial infections, while Botox is a protein that affects muscle activity.

“Typically, antibiotics do not interfere with the duration or effectiveness of Botox treatments. However, there are certain exceptions.”

Importance of Pre-Treatment Assessments

“When we book a person in for Botox or other treatments, our clinicians always undertake a pre-treatment assessment prior to undertaking the treatment,” said Mr Eranki. He urges clinics to ensure patients are asked about any medications they are taking, particularly antibiotics.

“When scheduling Botox or filler treatments, patients should always let the clinic know if they are taking any antibiotics or other medications. They should also know the name of their antibiotics and inform the clinic. Bringing the medication to the consultation ensures the nurse can assess whether the antibiotic poses any risk,” Mr Eranki explained.

Specific Antibiotics That May Interact

Mr Eranki notes that certain antibiotics—particularly aminoglycosides such as gentamicin and neomycin—may interact with Botox by enhancing its effects.

“These antibiotics can weaken neuromuscular transmission, potentially leading to more intense muscle paralysis than intended. This could cause unintended side effects, such as drooping eyelids,” he said.

Can Antibiotics Reduce Botox’s Effectiveness?

“While the risk is low, medications like chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine, commonly used to treat malaria, can reduce Botox’s efficacy by limiting its muscle-relaxing effects,” Mr Eranki explained.

“There is a concern by some that medications in this group might work to limit Botox’s ability to reduce your wrinkles by restricting the effect it has on the muscles it has been injected into. In order to maximise the impact of the Botox treatment, some clinics may recommend completing the course of antibiotics before undertaking Botox treatment.”

Don’t Overlook Skin Health

“It is also important to ensure the treatment area is free from infections before undergoing Botox. At Cosmetique, our trained nurses check for skin issues before proceeding with treatment,” said Mr Eranki.

About Mr Eranki

Mr Vivek Eranki is the CEO of Cosmetique. He holds qualifications in governance, finance, management and medicine and has an extensive track record as a CEO in the Health, Wellness and Personal Services industry. He has founded, scaled, and exited ventures across various sectors, including Allied Health, Occupational Health, General and Specialist Healthcare.

@cosmetique.au

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The New Era of Skin Communication and Regeneration.

By Karen Geiszler

The beauty and aesthetic industry is evolving faster than ever before. As skin therapists it is not enough to simply follow trends. We must understand the why behind what we offer. And in recent years, there has been growing buzz around a scientific innovation that is now stepping firmly into the spotlight exosomes.

These microscopic messengers are already being hailed as the next big thing in regenerative aesthetics, skin revision, and posttreatment recovery. But as with any breakthrough, it is critical we cut through the hype and explore the evidence, application, and clinical relevance for therapists.

In this article, I’ll break down what exosomes are, how they work, why they are showing up in advanced treatment menus, and what you need to consider before introducing them into your clinic.

What Are Exosomes and Why Do They Matter?

Exosomes are extracellular vesicles, essentially tiny envelopes secreted by cells that carry messages between one cell and another. Think of them as the delivery system of the body’s internal communication network.

These vesicles contain potent biological material such as proteins, RNA, lipids, and growth factors. Once released, they interact with other cells to trigger a response. In the skin, exosomes can help regulate inflammation, stimulate collagen production, improve tissue repair, and support cell turnover.

Unlike stem cells themselves, exosomes do not replicate or transform. Instead, they carry and deliver instructions from stem cells — meaning they offer the regenerative benefits of cell communication without some of the ethical and regulatory issues associated with live cell therapies.

The Skin Rejuvenation Benefits of Exosomes

When applied to the skin, especially after clinical modalities that create micro-channels or controlled trauma (such as microneedling, laser, or RF), exosomes enhance the skin’s ability to heal, regenerate, and restructure.

The benefits of exosome therapy may include:

• Reduced inflammation and faster wound healing post-procedure

• Enhanced collagen and elastin synthesis

• Support for melanocyte regulation and pigmentation balance

• Improved hydration and skin barrier resilience

• A smoother, brighter and more even-toned appearance

What sets exosomes apart from other topical treatments is their ability to initiate intercellular communication. Rather than simply applying active ingredients to the surface, exosomes are delivering molecular signals that prompt the skin to do the work itself , in essence, restoring communication and function from the inside out

Where Are Exosomes Sourced From?

Most commercially available exosomes used in topical aesthetic applications come from one of three sources:

1. Human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) – typically derived from umbilical cord or adipose tissue. These offer the highest regenerative potential and are most commonly used in advanced formulations.

2. Plant-derived exosomes – gaining traction for those seeking vegan or botanical options, though their clinical efficacy is still under investigation and currently considered less potent in dermal regeneration.

3. Platelet-derived exosomes – extracted from PRP (platelet-rich plasma), offering an exciting hybrid approach that utilises growth factors in a more refined and bioavailable format.

How Exosomes Are Being Used in Clinical Practice

We are now seeing exosomes being integrated into professional protocols across multiple skin concerns and treatment types. Some of the most effective applications include:

Skin Rejuvenation and Ageing

When applied after microneedling or fractional laser, exosomes amplify collagen production and reduce inflammation, accelerating skin recovery and improving texture, tone and elasticity.

Pigmentation and Melasma

Exosomes may help regulate melanogenesis and calm the inflammatory signals that drive pigmentation conditions. Their integration into pigment-balancing protocols is showing great promise in combination with traditional tyrosinase inhibitors and LED therapy.

Acne and Reactive Skin

The anti-inflammatory nature of exosomes makes them suitable for reducing the redness and irritation associated with acne, rosacea, or sensitised barrier function. When used strategically, they may help support microbiome balance and restore homeostasis.

Post-Procedure Healing

After ablative or aggressive modalities, exosomes offer an intelligent way to reduce downtime, improve skin comfort, and enhance overall client satisfaction.

Hair Regrowth

Emerging studies are now supporting the use of exosomes in trichology. When applied to the scalp in conjunction with dermal stamping or mesotherapy, they may help reactivate dormant follicles and promote healthier hair growth.

What Therapists Must Know Before Using Exosomes

Exosomes are not a magic bullet, they are a sophisticated tool that must be integrated into your clinical offering with a clear understanding of their role.

Here are several important considerations:

1. Understand the Science

Make sure you understand not only what exosomes are, but also how they interact with the skin, the difference between stem cell sources, and how they are processed. Education is your first line of ethical responsibility.

2. Work With Reputable Suppliers

Only partner with distributors that can provide documentation, third-party testing, Certificates of Analysis, and transparency about the origin and formulation of their exosomes.

3. Stay Within Scope

In Australia, the use of injectable stem cell or exosome products remains outside the scope of non-medical skin therapists. Stick to cosmeceuticalgrade, topical formulations that are applied post-procedure, and ensure all client communication reflects this.

4. Educate Your Clients

Clients will likely have questions about what exosomes are and how they differ from traditional serums or actives. Use visuals, analogies and evidence to help them understand the value.

Ethical, Responsible and Evidence-Based Integration

There’s no doubt that exosomes will continue to shape the future of regenerative aesthetics. However, they are best used as part of a layered, evidence-based treatment strategy , not a quick-fix or stand-alone miracle solution.

When paired with clinical treatments such as skin needling, LED therapy, fractional RF, exosomes can truly elevate your outcomes. They work synergistically to accelerate repair, amplify collagen, and support longterm dermal regeneration.

As therapists, our job is to deliver high-impact results while protecting client safety and integrity. This means choosing modalities, technologies and ingredients that support the skin’s natural intelligence ,and exosomes are a powerful new addition to that toolbox.

Final Thoughts

Exosomes represent more than just another cosmeceutical. They are the future of skin therapy ,intelligent, cellular, and regenerative.

As a clinical educator, I believe it is our role to lean into this evolving science with curiosity and caution in equal measure. When used ethically, backed by sound education, and delivered through professional hands, exosomes offer the potential to improve not only outcomes,but also the standard of skin therapy across the country.

Let’s raise the bar, ask better questions, and bring our clients into the next chapter of results-driven, biologically intelligent skincare.

Karen Geiszler

Clinical Beauty Educator

| Founder of KG Beauty & Modality Training

Empowering Skin Therapists Through Education, Experience and Elevated Standards

www.kgbeautytraining.com.au

When Skin Isn’t

Responding, Look Here First !

You can’t out-treat a compromised barrier. You can apply every active, run every setting, and layer like a textbook but if the skin’s first lines of defence aren’t functioning properly, the results will always fall short, or worse, trigger a response the skin wasn’t ready for.

Lia Trebilcock, Director of Skin Education International, has spent years teaching skin therapists why barrier repair isn’t a step to rush through on the way to advanced results. It’s the foundation everything else is built on because when a client’s barrier is already compromised, whether by lifestyle, products, or too many treatments too soon, the skin doesn’t have the resilience to meet your efforts halfway.

EAs Lia puts it, “you’re essentially asking it to run a marathon on a broken foot.”

Barrier Dysfunction Isn’t Always Obvious

We tend to think of barrier dysfunction as red, flaky, reactive skin, and yes, sometimes it is that obvious, but often, it starts quietly, and by the time it shows up in a more visibly severe way, the dominoes have been falling for a while.

Lia frequently uses the domino analogy in her training.

“The skin’s barrier defence systems, the microbiome, acid mantle and stratum corneum, are the first domino. If they stay standing, everything else does too but when the first domino tips, the rest start to fall.”

She maps it out like this: early barrier disruption might manifest as dryness, flaking, dullness, or breakouts. Leave it unaddressed, and it could progress to acne, rosacea, eczema or melasma. It’s not about fear-mongering. It’s about pattern recognition.

“We have to see barrier repair as preventative,” she says. “It’s the work that keeps skin resilient so it can handle the fun stuff later.”

What’s

Really Breaking The Barrier

So, what knocks that first domino?

Over-exfoliation, poor product choices, and aggressive treatments are common culprits, but Lia shares that it’s also the everyday habits clients would never connect to their skin.

“Clients might be using a beautiful cleanser, then removing it with micellar water or wipes. That undoes the benefits,” Lia explains. “Even things like antibacterial sprays, fragranced fabric softener, or heavy home cleaning chemicals can cause disruption without anyone realising.”

Internally, essential fatty acid deficiency is one of the most underacknowledged contributors. Without adequate EFAs, the skin struggles to retain hydration, maintain lipid integrity, or repair itself after trauma, and this becomes critical when high-level treatments are introduced.

Results Start With Repair

Lia is clear on this: advanced modalities require a functioning skin. Not a skin “coping well enough,” but one that’s genuinely ready.

“If the barrier’s not stable, the client is on the back foot before they even walk into the room,” she says. “Needling, peels — these all rely on the skin’s ability to heal well. If that function is compromised, you’re not going to get the results you’re hoping for.”

She doesn’t say this to scare therapists. It’s an invitation to slow down and reframe how we measure readiness.

Lia Trebilcock

“It’s like surgery,” she explains. “You wouldn’t operate on someone whose body isn’t strong enough to recover. The same principle applies here.”

Skipping this prep work isn’t just a risk to outcomes, it’s a risk to trust. “Clients today are looking for integrity. They respect when you educate them, prepare their skin, and take the long view. They’re not here for quick fixes that cause long-term issues.”

The Sultana Vs Grape Analogy Every Therapist Needs

Still, we all know that some clients want results yesterday. They’ve booked in, paid the deposit, and don’t understand why you’re talking about home care instead of jumping straight into the action.

This is where Lia brings out one of her most-loved teaching analogies.

“In skin needling training, we talk about how new cells are formed during the healing process. If your client’s stem cells have genetic damage, those new cells will carry that same damage. If they’re dehydrated or lacking EFAs, those cells won’t hold water or form healthy membranes.”

Then comes the visual.

“I tell them: imagine your new cells are brain-damaged sultanas. If we don’t prep, that’s what you’re getting, but if we support the skin properly beforehand with SPF, vitamin A, hydration, essential fatty acid supplementation, your skin regenerates with healthy, juicy grapes.”

And then she asks the question: “Would you rather spend $600 on sultanas or grapes?”

You guessed it. No one ever picks sultanas.

It’s a visual that makes skin physiology click — taking the science out of the textbook and into the mind of a client who’s investing in their skin and expecting results. It’s also something every therapist can take into the consultation room to shift the conversation from rushing to lasting clinical outcomes.

Bringing Lifestyle Into The Skin Conversation

The skin doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s the body’s largest organ and arguably the most underestimated. Most clients don’t realise how deeply it reflects what’s happening internally.

Lia says lifestyle factors are often the missing piece in achieving long-term skin results, and that therapists can absolutely initiate those conversations in a supportive way.

“It comes back to what the client wants help with, and how we can best support that. If there’s a lifestyle tweak that will help, explain it. Help them understand the why and the how.”

She uses acne as an example. Sebum should be thin and fluid, but internal imbalances can cause it to become thick and sticky, resembling custard or cottage cheese. That change drives congestion and breakouts.

“Explaining how fish oil helps restore normal sebum consistency makes it really logical for the client. Once they understand, it’s not a hard conversation. It’s just part of the solution.”

The Real Work Isn’t Always Flashy

In a results-driven industry, it’s easy to feel like you have to go harder, faster, and more advanced, but Lia is quick to remind us that the mark of a skilled therapist isn’t how quickly you can needle or peel, it’s how well you can build strong, resilient skin in the first place.

“You don’t have to prove yourself with advanced modalities,” she says. “You prove yourself by knowing when to pause and protect the barrier.”

Barrier repair is often the work that goes unnoticed. It doesn’t photograph like a post-peel glow and it’s not likely to go viral on TikTok. However, it lays the groundwork for every result that follows — better healing, improved function, healthier skin and ultimately, a lifetime client.

“Barrier work isn’t what you do before the real treatment. It is the real treatment. Without it, nothing else holds,” she says.

Clients might not always understand that upfront. That’s why therapists need to because what you’re doing isn’t basic, it’s foundational.

And there’s nothing small about building skin that can handle anything.

@liatrebilcock @skin_education_international_

Rethinking RF Microneedling for Rosacea and Melasma

By Rachel Medlock, Guest Editor

When most of us think of radiofrequency microneedling, we think of firming, tightening, texture, and remodelling. It’s a treatment traditionally reserved for skin that’s ready to be pushed, but what if this technology had the potential to serve as a reparative treatment?

According to Lainie Porter, Account Manager and Clinical Trainer at Laseraid, it’s time to rethink the way we position RF microneedling, particularly when treating inflammatory conditions such as rosacea and melasma.

“It does take a paradigm shift to look at RF microneedling as a reparative treatment,” she says. “But that’s essentially what it is when we use the pulse wave mode. We reduce inflammation, modulate and stabilise the skin with cellular communication, rather than the wound-to-rebuild approach that’s so typical of aesthetics.”

It’s a shift that not only expands the reach of this treatment but also brings a layer of nuance to how we understand and support complex conditions.

Not every red face is rosacea

Before discussing treatment, Lainie urges therapists to revisit their diagnostic process. A surprising number of rosacea and melasma cases are misdiagnosed in clinic settings, often leading to poor outcomes, inflammation, or recurrence.

“Melasma is a pigmentary condition with hormonal, vascular, and inflammatory influences. It’s symmetrical and presents on sun-exposed areas like the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip, but I still see it incorrectly diagnosed more often than you’d expect,” she explains.

Rosacea, Lainie adds, is even more commonly misunderstood. “It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot. A red face might be an impaired barrier, a transient sensitivity, or actual rosacea. And rosacea itself has four subtypes. Most of what we see in-clinic is either erythematotelangiectatic rosacea, which presents with redness and visible vessels, or papulopustular rosacea, which includes small pustules. These need to be treated very differently.”

One of the biggest mistakes? Treating what you see, rather than what’s causing it.

“It’s easy to forget that these conditions are deeply individual. Asking more questions in consultation is vital. There’s never a one-size-fits-all approach.”

The rise of pulse wave RF

Historically, RF microneedling was avoided in these cases due to caution. The fear of exacerbating redness, triggering pigmentation, or fueling already inflamed skin meant the treatment was reserved for robust skin types; however, technology has since evolved.

“With older devices, you’re using a continuous wave (bulk heating) to induce inflammation and stimulate neocollagenesis,” Lainie shares. “That’s great for collagen induction. It’s not what you want for melasma or rosacea.”

Newer technologies now offer the ability to toggle between continuous and pulsed wave RF. The difference is subtle in execution but profound in outcome. Rather than flooding the skin with heat,

pulse wave RF delivers short, targeted bursts of energy designed to regulate cell behaviour without excessive thermal damage.

“With the pulse wave mode, we’re communicating with the skin, not wounding it. That means we can safely treat inflammatory conditions that would’ve previously been off-limits.”

Shallower isn’t less effective

Depth is another consideration that Lainie believes requires rethinking. The traditional instinct to treat pigment deep in the dermis is being challenged by emerging research and clinical experience.

“In the past, we were working at depths of 0.8 to 1.5mm to target the melanocyte at the basement membrane,” she says. “Now, we’re seeing better outcomes by targeting the papillary dermis at around 300 microns. That’s where key aspects of melanogenesis are happening.”

By staying more superficial, therapists can avoid unnecessary trauma, reduce pain and downtime, and still achieve meaningful changes in pigment and vascular conditions. The goal isn’t destruction, it’s regulation.

“Strengthening the basement membrane improves skin health overall. It also helps prevent melanin from leaking into the dermis, which is part of what makes conditions like melasma so difficult to treat long-term.”

More options, less compromise

This refined approach is not only safer for inflamed skin, but it also makes the treatment more versatile. With newer RF Microneedling devices, such as Sylfirm X, therapists can customise parameters on a single device using a single needle tip across multiple areas of the face or body.

“You might have a client with melasma on the upper cheeks and laxity through the lower face,” Lainie explains. “In the past, you’d have to turn them away or separate the treatments. Now, we can use pulse wave for the melasma and continuous wave for the laxity, all in the one session. It’s not about compromise. It’s about precision.”

This adaptability allows therapists to support clients holistically, rather than limiting their approach based on device capabilities.

Stop rushing in

One of the most common mistakes Lainie sees in clinic training is the urge to do too much, too soon.

“Therapists often want to go in hard; peel it away, laser it off, break it up with a Q-switch or IPL. That’s not necessarily wrong, but it’s not always necessary either.”

Instead, she advocates for a “low and slow” approach, giving the skin a chance to regulate before jumping into more aggressive modalities.

“If you can reduce the inflammatory load and strengthen the skin first, you might not need to use other modalities at all. Or, if you do, the skin will be much better prepared to receive that trauma and less likely to relapse.”

Inflammation first, always

Whether it’s acne, melasma, rosacea, or something else entirely, Lainie says that inflammation should always be the first thing therapists address, even if it’s not the first thing the client sees in the mirror.

“Inflammation is usually what’s driving the condition. If you jump ahead and treat the visible symptoms without calming what’s happening underneath, you’re going to find yourself chasing it around the face.”

That means understanding how treatments like pulsed RF can be used to modulate that inflammation in a strategic, controlled way. Not to wound or suppress, but to repair.

“Barrier health plays into this, too. If your client’s skin is impaired, it’s going to respond unpredictably to any modality you throw at it. Even the best technology can’t outwork a compromised barrier.”

What to look for in a device

For clinics considering expanding their offerings to better support vascular and pigment concerns, Lainie encourages looking beyond the brochure.

“Start with the science. Is it backed by evidence? What does the safety profile look like? Can it treat all phototypes, and if so, how?”

She also stresses the importance of sales representatives who understand more than just settings.

“Your rep should be able to explain how the technology interacts with skin. Not just the device, but the skin. What happens with different conditions, different phototypes, different healing trajectories.”

Versatility is crucial, especially in a modern clinical environment where multimodality approaches are prevalent. Therapists should also consider how easily a device integrates with their current treatment menu and philosophy.

And lastly, education.

“Ongoing training is essential, but don’t wait to be spoon-fed either. There’s so much power in self-directed learning. Stay curious.”

A call to rethink what results look like

RF microneedling will always have a place in skin tightening or scar revision treatment plans, but if there’s one thing Lainie hopes therapists take away from her work, it’s this: don’t overlook inflammation.

“We have an incredible opportunity with this technology to support skin that would normally be excluded. When you use it wisely, with intent, and a strong understanding of the inflammatory process, it becomes one of the most reparative tools in your clinic.”

You just have to be willing to slow down long enough to see it that way.

Lainie Porter

When Skin Breaks Out on the Fertility Journey : Holding Space as a Skin Therapist

By Alanna Douglas, Skin Freak Academy

There’s a certain silence that can settle into a treatment room when a client mentions they’re going through IVF or struggling to conceive. You might feel it too — that split-second pause between “what should I say?” and “what can I safely do?”

You’re not alone. Supporting a client through a fertility journey is one of the most emotionally complex roles we take on as skin therapists. Not because we’re expected to fix everything — but because we hold space for clients at a time when their world feels shaky, uncertain, and often out of control.

Hormones fluctuate wildly. Skin becomes reactive and unpredictable. Breakouts, inflammation, sensitivity — the surface tells a story, but it’s what’s going on beneath that skin that matters just as much.

Here’s what I want every therapist to know:

1. Clients don’t need fixing. They need holding. Sometimes the most healing part of a facial isn’t the peel or the mask — it’s the safe space you create. A moment where everything stops spinning. Where they can just be. Offering presence, stillness, and a soft landing is more powerful than we give ourselves credit for.

2. It’s okay — and necessary — to ask the hard questions.

You need to know where your client is at in their fertility journey. Are they mid-stimulation? Waiting for a transfer? Recovering from a loss? These details matter — not just for treatment safety, but for emotional connection. You won’t overstep by asking gently and professionally. You’ll deepen trust.

3. Your protocols need to adapt.

A “one-size-fits-all” approach doesn’t serve fertility clients. Their skin might respond completely differently week to week depending on what stage they’re in hormonally. This is where

your knowledge, intuition, and flexibility matter most. Have options. Know your why.

And be ready to pivot.

“Adapting your protocols to meet your client’s hormonal cycle isn’t optional — it’s what makes you a skin therapist, not just a technician.”

At the core, supporting clients through fertility is about not being afraid to ask the questions you need — so you can deliver not just a skin treatment, but a soul treatment. One that meets their physiological needs and honours where they’re at emotionally.

Never underestimate the power of your hands, your presence, and a truly thoughtful skin treatment. Machines are wonderful. Products are powerful. But you are the magic.

You can connect with me at @skinfreakacademy or visit www.skinfreakacademy.com.au for more support, education, and conversations that matter.

Because skin is never just skin — and our work is never just a treatment.

With love, Alanna Douglas, Skin Freak Academy

Alanna Douglas

Exhausted, Wired, Or Just Off? Your Circadian Rhythm Might Be the Problem.

By Rachel Medlock, Guest Editor

You’re not imagining it. The bone-deep exhaustion. The weird sleep. The anxiety that won’t quit even when things are technically fine.

According to Rachael Stevens, CEO of Circadia Australia, there’s a biological reason you’re feeling off. It starts with light, ends with your skin, and it has everything to do with your circadian rhythm.

“There isn’t a disease or disorder that circadian disruption doesn’t touch,” Rachael says. “That includes metabolic conditions, cardiovascular disease, infertility, mental health, chronic sleep problems, and yes, skin issues too. High cortisol levels break down collagen. It all links.”

As skin therapists, you’ve been trained to think in layers. You know how to look beyond the surface, but what is rarely discussed is how internal rhythms might be quietly breaking us down while we’re too busy holding space for everyone else.

According to Rachael, it starts with the sun. More specifically, the light from it. Not the kind we wear SPF to block, but the kind that hits our eyes in the morning.

“Morning light through the retina triggers your suprachiasmatic nucleus,” she explains. “That signals a protein called melanopsin, which helps suppress melatonin and triggers the release of cortisol. That early in the morning, cortisol isn’t a bad thing. It wakes you up. It regulates serotonin, supports immune function, bone health, and cognition. It even helps regulate appetite, but it only happens when the body receives that early light signal. If the first light you see is your phone, you’re already out of sync.”

That misalignment isn’t without consequence. Rachael points to a study showing that if you’re awake between 10pm and 4am for just two hours a night across 25 days in a year, you qualify as a shift worker. For therapists juggling late clients, end-of-day admin, or the mental load of running a business, it’s a quiet but persistent biological red flag that deserves attention, not guilt.

“Sleep is the number one thing you need to get right for circadian rhythm function,” Rachael says. “And the number one disruptor is blue light.”

The irony isn’t lost on her. Therapists work indoors and under artificial lighting, and most finish the day with Netflix, emails, or a final scroll on Instagram. The result is a body that can’t differentiate between day and night, melatonin production gets shut down, repair doesn’t kick in, and your nervous system stays amped when it should be softening.

“There is zero doubt in the literature that artificial lights, especially blue-rich lights, put you at higher risk for a range of serious health issues,” she says. “Neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, cancers and in the short term, that same blue light is sabotaging your sleep.”

Caffeine doesn’t help either, and Rachael knows this is the part nobody wants to hear. In an industry powered by espresso and adrenaline, it’s often the one ritual that feels non-negotiable.

“Caffeine has a half-life of five to six hours,” she explains. “If you have a late afternoon coffee, a quarter of that caffeine is still in your brain at midnight. It masks tiredness by blocking adenosine, which is the chemical that makes us feel sleepy. But it doesn’t eliminate it. So once the caffeine wears off, all that adenosine comes flooding back and you get hit with a crash.”

That crash often leads to another coffee, and just like that, the cycle continues, leaving you wondering why sleep feels light and mornings feel heavy.

“Deep sleep is where growth hormones are released,” says Rachael. “It’s when the body repairs tissue, balances blood sugar, strengthens immunity, and consolidates memory. For the skin, it’s when the real healing happens.”

Diet plays a role, too. Rachael shares that insulin and melatonin fight for the same pathways. Late-night snacking forces the body to respond to food when it should be preparing for sleep. And then there are the oxalates.

“Spinach, almonds, green smoothies, protein powders. These all sound healthy,” she says. “But oxalates bind to minerals like calcium and form crystals in the body. They disrupt gut function and nutrient absorption. Over time, they throw your system off. Most of us are women, and women are often the ones waking up in the night to go to the bathroom. That’s usually your body trying to clear these toxins during the hours it’s supposed to be resting.”

So, where does that leave us?

“Watch the sunrise,” Rachael says. “Look out the window before you look at your phone. Wear blue blockers at night. Have your coffee earlier. Try to eat before the sun goes down. These are small shifts. They matter.”

You’re allowed to be the client sometimes, too. Your health, energy, and skin deserve care, the same way you give it every day to others.

@circadia_aus

Rachael Stevens

Thinking of Buying New Equipment for Your Skin Clinic? Here’s

By Gay Wardle

If you’re a skin clinic owner, chances are you’ve been tempted — or even pressured — by the shiny promise of the latest device on the market. Lasers, IPL, RF microneedling, body contouring, LED therapy — the list just keeps growing.

And if you’re like most clinic owners, you’ve probably asked yourself: Which one should I invest in first? Will this machine really bring in new clients and pay for itself? How do I know I’m choosing the right equipment for my clinic? You’re not alone — I get asked this all the time. So, let’s walk through what’s trending, why clinics are investing in certain devices, and the essential things you need to consider before you sign that purchase agreement.

Top Devices Skin Clinics Are Buying Today

Right now, some of the most commonly purchased devices in the skin clinic industry include IPL (Intense Pulsed Light), a variety of laser devices such as picosecond lasers, RF microneedling, LED light therapy, hydrodermabrasion devices like Hydrafacial, RF skin tightening machines, high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), body contouring devices such as cryolipolysis, RF body sculpting and EMS, tattoo removal or pigment-specific lasers, and skin analyzers or diagnostic imaging tools. These devices are not just filling up treatment rooms because they’re trendy — they are popular for good reasons.

“It’s not about owning every machine — it’s about owning the right machine for your clinic.”

Why Are Clinics Buying These Devices?

Clinics are investing in these devices because they offer multi-functionality, allowing one machine to treat a range of skin concerns, which gives faster return on investment. Clients today are demanding non-invasive treatments with minimal downtime and visible results, and these machines deliver on those expectations. High-ticket treatments, like RF microneedling, body contouring, or laser resurfacing, can significantly boost a clinic’s income and elevate its reputation. Additionally, having advanced technology on offer helps set a clinic apart in a competitive market.

“The clinics that thrive are the ones that plan, not the ones that follow fads.”

Before You Buy: 7 Essential Questions to Ask

Before you rush into a purchase, here are seven key things every clinic owner should think about.

1. Do You Have the Right Clientele?

First, take a good look at your current client base. Who are they, and what are they asking for? Younger clients, typically under 35, often seek

What You Need to Know!

treatments like acne management, skin rejuvenation, or laser hair removal, while older clients may be more interested in skin tightening, RF microneedling, or HIFU. Buying a machine no one is asking for is one of the quickest ways to end up with a device that sits unused.

2 . What Does Your Market Look Like?

It’s also essential to look beyond your clinic’s walls. Who are your local competitors, and what technologies are they offering? Is there a treatment gap in your area that you could fill? Understanding your local market will help you make sure you’re investing in treatments that make you stand out, not just copying the clinic down the street.

“Look at your clients, your market, and your numbers — not just the sales brochure.”

3️. Have You Done the Math?

Many clinic owners fall in love with the idea of a new device but haven’t carefully worked out how they’ll make it pay for itself. You need to calculate the full cost, including purchase price, financing, installation, and consumables, and figure out how many treatments you will need to perform each month to cover these costs and break even.

4️. What’s Your Marketing Plan?

Purchasing the machine is just the start — the real work begins with marketing it. You need a clear strategy to educate your clients, launch promotions or events, create engaging social media campaigns, and decide how to package and price the treatments. Without a strong marketing plan, even the best device can end up sitting unused in a corner.

“You can’t just buy it — you have to sell it.”

5️. What Training Is Provided?

Training is one of the most important factors in the success of any new equipment purchase. You need to know whether training is included in the purchase, whether it’s in-person, online, or a combination of both, and whether the supplier will provide training for new staff in the future. Good training ensures you and your team can deliver safe, effective treatments with confidence.

6️. What Ongoing Support Is Offered?

Machines need maintenance and sometimes troubleshooting. It’s important to check whether the supplier offers local service and repairs, whether they are known for good customer support, and whether they provide a warranty or service agreement. A cheaper machine with no after-sales support can quickly become a very expensive headache.

7️. What Are the Essential Features?

When comparing devices, don’t be distracted by the sales pitch. Look for clinical evidence that the device delivers results, understand its safety profile and what skin types it can be used on, check the consumable and running costs, and consider whether it’s user-friendly for your team.

Final Thoughts: Be a Smart Buyer, Not a Fast Buyer

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new technology, but the best clinics are those that take the time to plan carefully. The clinics that thrive know their clients, understand their market, do the financial planning, invest in training and support, and market their services with passion.

“Start with versatile, proven devices like IPL, LED, or RF microneedling before jumping into niche or ultra-high-cost machines.”

My Friendly Advice

If you’re unsure where to start, have conversations with your clients, your team, and trusted colleagues. Ask suppliers for demos, real case studies, and referrals from other clinic owners. Remember, it’s not about being the clinic with the most machines — it’s about being the clinic that knows what their clients need and delivers those treatments brilliantly.

www.gaywardleskininstitute.com.au www.gwsi.com.au

Introducing The Skinformé Academy .

Australia’s queen of bespoke facial massage and one of the most respected names in skincare, Isabella Loneragan has been inundated with demand since launching her transformative skin education courses. The overwhelming response has led the multiaward-winning skin and dermal therapist to unveil her next major venture: an education platform that’s a game-changing expansion of her acclaimed Art of Facial Massage courses.

Introducing The Skinformé Academy – a worldclass facial and facial massage training institution designed to elevate hands-on skin therapy and moreover, guide touch therapists to turn their skills into thriving businesses.

Globally accessible and offering premium expertled online and in-person courses, structured training pathways and accredited certifications, The Skinformé Academy is backed by Isabella’s two decades of industry experience, multiple skin and business awards and exclusive international training under world-renowned experts.

“It took me years of international study to craft my own title. The Skinformé Academy is your shortcut. It’s the culmination of everything I’ve learned as the founder and owner of multiple technique-driven, touch-led skincare businesses that prioritise skilled hands over machines. It’s my exclusive offering of the knowhow I had to go around the world to acquire,” explains Isabella.

With a vision to elevate facial massage education by teaching hands-on techniques and aesthetic business mastery to empower professionals –from seasoned experts to aspiring beginners – The Skinformé Academy includes two clear certification pathways.

The Master Path is designed for all therapists, clinic leaders, and brand builders ready to transform their careers through advanced facial massage techniques, including intra-oral massage and advanced sculpting and lifting, delivered through a blend of online and immersive in-person training.

Graduates earn a Master in the Art of Facial Massage certification. With 12 months to complete, the Master Path significantly includes Isabella’s renowned teachings on intrinsic facial massage, and the courses include:

• Awaken the Eyes – professional techniques to lift, de-puff and rejuvenate the face, with a focus on the eyes, for a brighter, more sculpted look. This course is an ideal starting point for practitioners beginning their facial massage journey.

• The Intrinsic Intensive (one day online and three days in-person) – Isabella’s groundbreaking course covering advanced sculpting, lifting and intra-oral massage.

• Intrinsic Illumination Infusion – combines the precision of Kobido, the detoxifying power of lymph shifting, and the ancient wisdom of Chinese acupressure point massage to harmonise internal organ health, restore mental wellness, and unveil unparalleled skin luminosity.

• The Skinformé Facial – a foundational treatment designed to be enhanced with advanced facial massage techniques, delivering visible lift, tone, and rejuvenation.

• The Business of Facial Masterclass – a stepby-step guide that teaches therapists how to implement their new skills in-clinic, focusing on increasing bookings, boosting revenue, and improving client retention.

The Expert Path is fully online, self-paced and ideal for all therapists, solopreneurs and international students who want to learn extrinsic-based facial massage techniques. With 12 months to complete, the Expert Path will see graduates earn an Expert in the Art of Facial Massage certification.

The Expert Path includes all elements of the Master Path – except Isabella’s signature The Intrinsic Intensive course in-full. Instead, it offers elements of The Intrinsic Intensive through:

• Signature Sculpt Method – teaching the fundamentals of structure and sculpting through touch – not machines. This course includes only the online-based component of Isabella’s groundbreaking teachings of The Intrinsic Intensive course (which is featured in full in the Master Path, requiring in-person training).

In addition to a limited offering of private and group booking options to train with Isabella in-person, all participants of The Skinformé Academy will receive exclusive access to a FREE online masterclass. Titled Unlock Facial Mastery: The Proven Path to Becoming an Elite,

In-Demand Therapist Commanding Premium Treatment Prices, this complimentary masterclass includes Isabella’s unique insights for achieving professional excellence.

Isabella has intensely studied the Buccal technique created by Russian massage specialist Yakov Gershkovich and has extended this learning by travelling to Paris and London to train under internationally renowned experts of Japanese Kobido and Chinese Chuanzhi acupressure. Skilfully combining these ancient techniques with modern facial massage methods to create her own signature treatments has cemented Isabella as a pioneer of the skincare industry.

“While educating students in the touch therapies I’ve mastered over many years is of course a major element of The Skinformé Academy, I’ve deliberately designed the courses to go further. The Academy includes everything I use to succeed: technique, pricing strategies, and business support. Because mastery must also mean income.

“The Skinformé Academy solves a long-standing industry issue, and that is, isolation. After training, most therapists are left to figure it out alone. With The Skinformé Academy, you’ll get community access with likeminded therapists, and additional support to help you launch your new skills.

“Built for skin and dermal therapists, aspiring beauty therapists, brow and lash artists, injectable nurses, massage therapists and anyone working in facial touch therapies, The Skinformé Academy sets a new standard in facial massage education. This is the education I wish I had when I started. Now, I’ve built it for my peers,” adds Isabella.

To learn more about The Skinformé Academy, visit skinformeacademy.com

The Business of Beauty: How to Build a Thriving Career as a Freelance Makeup Artist

By Brooke Clarke

Picture this, me, a successful makeup artist of 10 years, walking into Australian Fashion week for the first time and shaking in my boots. Theres industry icons everywhere, and I’m feeling out of depth and a severe case of imposter syndrome. But put a model in my chair and brushes in my hand, and all of the nerves faded away as I got to do the thing I love most, makeup.

After working a few shows and getting to know the incredible artists around me, I came to realise that they are all just like me. Hard working people that love the same thing I do and have become successful in a very challenging industry. The thing that stood out to me when working with these artists is that not only are they successful in their skills, but they all have a very similar approach to navigating their careers, as do I. It’s about building a business—and building yourself as a brand.

Now, 12 years into my career, I’ve worked across glam, fashion, music videos, body painting, and even opened my own makeup studio in Brisbane. Along the way, I’ve learned (often the hard way!) what it takes to not just survive but to thrive in our beautiful, competitive industry. So, whether you’re dreaming of leaving retail, craving more consistent bookings, or thinking about launching your own business, here’s my hot tips to creating a long-lasting career in makeup.

Build a Brand That Gets You Booked

First things first, you can be the best makeup artist in the world, but if you’re not on social media, or your posting low quality content, people will walk right past you. Your artistry might be stunning, but if no one can find you, or your work isn’t grabbing people’s attention, then your calendar stays empty. Word of mouth bookings only happen when you already have people in the chair. A few things that can immediately help with getting recognised by potential clients is:

• Portfolio: Show off your beautiful work! Keep it polished, curated, and up to date. Include a mix of work—editorial, e-commerce, beauty, and creative—if you want to book across multiple industries. Your portfolio should consist of high quality, professional images of your favourite works. Doing collaborations to practice new ideas or paying that photographer or model you really want to work with to execute your ideas, can instantly elevate your work and shave years off trying to figure out how to get ahead in the industry.

• Social Media: Instagram is still king, but don’t underestimate TikTok for building reach, especially if you’re targeting a younger audience. Be consistent, show BTS, and make people fall in love with your vibe, not just your work. I would say about 70% of my clients come from social media, and almost 100% of all creative jobs I get are because of my Instagram. Never underestimate the power of social media - you just never know who’s watching you and waiting to hire you!

• Website: Even a simple one builds trust and makes it easy for clients to find your rates, book, and contact you. It makes you look 10x more professional and opens you up to a much wider audience. Your website isn’t competing with an algorithm designed to work against you like social media, it’s your own little slice of the internet to show people exactly who you are and what you do. Remember: clients book the artist they feel connected to. Show your face and personality as much as your makeup looks.

Know Your Worth (and Stick to It!)

One of the biggest struggles for freelance artists in Australia is pricing. I see so many undercharging because they’re afraid of scaring clients off. Here’s the truth: undercutting devalues your work and the industry.

Factor in:

- Time (including setup and travel)

- Product costs (especially for high-end kits)

- Business expenses (insurance, software, etc.)

- Superannuation—because freelance means no employer contributions.

Research local rates, then price confidently. You’re not “just doing makeup”—you’re providing a luxury service and your unique point of view. With money comes all of the boring but necessary stuff too - in order to make money your business needs to run like a real business. That means opening an ABN, paying your taxes and super, doing your admin every single day, and making sure your back end is working as it should. I spend at least 1 hour every day doing my boring stuff, as without it I wouldn’t have a business at all! My most helpful apps and tips are:

• Canva (I use this for all invoicing and marketing materials)

• Xero (this keeps me up to date with all of my tax and bookkeeping stuff)

• wix - wix is a website builder that has templates you can base your website off of - it tells you everything you need to do, and you can completely customise it to look and function how you want it to. (there’s also Squarespace and a lot of other sites just like wix)

• Set up an easy payment system - I personally use square for my business and have never had a problem with it. I get all of the reports and can take payments in my studio, online for bookings, on my phone for freelance jobs, anywhere. It’s incredibly convenient!

Other makeup artists will get you more work than anyone else

This industry runs on relationships. Some of my biggest opportunities came from other makeup artists that I’ve connected with along the way. It always pays off to assist other artists - whether you gain a friend, a mentor, and paid work down the line. When I’ve been unwell or had any circumstances where I could no longer do the job I was booked for, the first people I’m calling are my industry friends, peers I’ve connected with over social media and love their work, and people who’ve assisted me on jobs and really impressed me. Not only should you be networking with other makeup artists, but also the other creatives you end up working with. Being kind, friendly and genuine can get you more work than your skills alone.

Brooke Clarke

Chat to photographers on shoots, treat models with respect, connect with stylists and hair. You never know who you make an impact on and who will be booking you again. How to start networking:

• Assist for established artists (this often means unpaid work, but what you learn and gain far outweighs an assistant rate).

• Attend industry events and expos like Beauty Expo Australia or Australian Makeup Industry Awards.

• Be reliable, kind, and collaborative. Your attitude will get you rebooked just as fast as your skills.

• Follow and interact with your favourite creatives online, like I said, so much of my work comes from socials!

Diversify Your Work for Stability and Act Accordingly

One of the best parts of freelancing is the variety. I’ve painted full-body cyborgs for music videos, created soft glam for e-comm brands, and created beautiful, natural skin for fashion shows at Australian Fashion Week. This diversity keeps my career exciting—and my income steady. But when you do a lot of different aspects of makeup - it can be hard to keep up with what your clients might be wanting from you. This is where you need to sort the back end and front end of your business - so that you can get the most out of your career.

• Set up multiple social accounts if your work is very varied, i.e... you specialise in both soft glam makeup and body painting. Often the audience that loves to see your creative work is never going to be interested in seeing or engaging with your softer side, and vice versa. Keeping these socials separate can mean targeting both audiences and gaining you more work with both.

• Streamline your website - make it easy for people to see your portfolio and all that you do and make it easy for them to contact you if they have any questions. Having a contact form on my website allows people to directly contact me there, rather than having to open their email or send a text.

• Think beyond weddings and glam - there’s so much to experience in our industry - give it a go! You might find something you love more than you ever could have imagined, or it might remind you that you are on the right track. You’ll never know until you know! E-commerceEditorial - Fashion - Music videos - Film/TV - Workshops and education (a great revenue stream if you love teaching)

The Long Game: Longevity in Makeup

The truth is that success doesn’t happen overnight. I’ve been working in this industry for 12 years and I’m still figuring it all out. It’s a slow game built from small, consistent actions—refining your craft, showing up online, delivering exceptional service, and reinvesting in your business. But I promise you it’s worth the time and effort!

The Australian makeup industry is vibrant, ever-changing, and full of opportunity for artists willing to think like entrepreneurs. With passion, persistence, and a little business savvy, you can carve out a career that’s not only creatively fulfilling but financially sustainable too.

So, pick up your brushes and get to work. You’ve got this.

@jabbasmakeup

BEAUTY shop

THE

ONE: All-in-One Styling Chair By

Takara Belmont

Takara Belmont’s

THE ONE is a breakthrough in salon innovation. An all-inone styling chair that seamlessly brings luxury, technology and ergonomic design. Featuring one-touch controls for height, recline and a fully retractable basin, it simplifies every service from start to finish. With its sleek design THE ONE maximises salon-space and functionality while delivering a premium, future-ready experience. www.joiken.com.au

YUME

HEADBATH: Spa Serenity for the Scalp By

Takara Belmont

The YUME HEADBATH delivers a sensory journey of scalp purification, healing and ultimate relaxation. Designed for deep scalp cleansing and stress relief, it removes buildup of excess oil and product, while laying the foundation for healthy hair growth. When paired with the YUME Series wash units, it provides spa-level comfort and therapeutic benefits, turning ordinary washes into luxurious rituals that clients will return for again. www.joiken.com.au

The

NEW Ultra Lash Lift & Brow Lamination Dual Purpose Kit By

RefectoCil®

The patented pink power perm containing keratin and cysteine works in just 13 minutes (8+5 minutes processing time). If you’re looking for a multipurpose kit that offers stunning results in a short time frame, then this is the kit for you!

The RefectoCil® Ultra Lash Lift kit includes new Self-adhesive silicon lash lift pads in four sizes (S, M, L,XL) enabling fully customised treat NEW: RefectoCil® Ultra Glue – its innovative formula is fast drying and efficiently locks the lashes onto the rods. Together with self-adhesive Lifting Pads the Ultra Kit offers a more seamless application. For a more intense look, lashes can be tinted directly on the Lifting Pads immediately after the lifting treatment. www.refectocil.com.au

Experience the

Diamond Microdermabrasion Facial System ByComfortel

Diamond microdermabrasion is one of the easiest and most effective ways to fight the effects of aging. For instantly smoother skin, the Comfortel Diamond microdermabrasion facial system uses a combination of vacuum suction and diamond encrusted tips to lightly abrade the skin’s surface, producing a deeply exfoliating and polishing skin treatment. With easy-to-use settings, the system is highly adjustable, featuring eight levels of vacuum suction and 10 different diamond tips to enable you to customise each treatment according to your client’s skin type, condition and concerns. www.comfortel.com.au

Collagen ReActivate PM By HydroPeptide

Collagen ReActivate PM is the only night cream powered by patented NIMNI™ Technology, clinically proven to maximise collagen production on every level. Unlike other collagen-boosting formulas, only NIMNI™ Technology delivers amino acids at levels naturally found in the body, mimicking the skin’s own collagen production process for maximum efficacy. Along with time-released Retinol (0.25%), Peptides and Vitamin C, this luxurious cream it’s designed to dramatically rejuvenate skin, restoring smoothness, fullness, and elasticity www.hydropeptide.au

Meet Martini, a fusion of sleek curves and practical design By Comfortel

This contemporary reception desk is a modern muse, showcasing a clean, wavy silhouette in two sophisticated colours. Whether you choose the soft gloss of Cream Pink or the crisp elegance of White, Martini brings effortless style to your salon. But it’s more than just eye-catching design — with ample storage, a discreet cash drawer shelf, and a front privacy panel, it keeps your essentials neatly tucked away. Compact yet fully functional, Martini makes a bold impression without taking up too much space. Perfect for salons that want to make a statement in style and efficiency.

www.comfortel.com.au

YZ Derma Collagen Range by ZHAV

Collagen and elastin are critical structural proteins that give the skin its firmness, elasticity, and youthful bounce. With age, collagen synthesis naturally slows—resulting in fine lines, dehydration, and skin laxity.

The YZ Derma Collagen Range is designed to proactively address these concerns with Hydrolyzed Collagen, renowned for its superior water-binding capacity and bioavailability. This range offers professional-grade formulations to:

• Support skin regeneration and strengthen the dermal matrix

• Visibly smooth fine lines and improve elasticity

• Enhance hydration through deep moisture retention

• Improve overall tone, texture, and suppleness

Ideal for pre- and post-treatment skincare or as part of a collagen-boosting facial protocol, the YZ Derma Collagen Range helps deliver measurable results your clients will see and feel.

www.zhav.com.au

Introducing ELITE DUO-A By COSMEDIX®

Meet the next generation of clinical skincare. COSMEDIX® ELITE DUO-A - a groundbreaking 1% retinoid night treatment designed to set a new benchmark in age-defying skincare. This dual-action formula pairs fast-acting Retinal with slowrelease Retinol to deliver powerful, targeted results to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, uneven texture and visible laxity, all while supporting skin comfort and hydration.

Key Ingredients:

• Retinol - Supports natural skin renewal, helping improve the appearance of texture and firmness.

• Retinal (Retinaldehyde) – Helps refine the appearance of texture, supports elasticity and promotes overall skin health with targeted, stable delivery over time.

• Beta Glucan – A soothing powerhouse creates a protective moisture barrier while calming the skin and defending against external environmental stressors. www.advancedskin.com.au

PHYTO THERAPY ‘Take A Breath’ Oil Essence By BIODROGA

Discover the revitalising benefits of BIODROGA Organic’s PHYTO THERAPY “Take A Breath” Therapy Oil. Enriched with nourishing jojoba seed oil and olivederived squalene, this formula aids in moisture retention and reinforces the skin barrier. Regular application can visibly diminish fine lines and wrinkles, leaving your skin smooth, radiant, and youthful. Indulge in this transformative experience for a naturally glowing complexion. www.biodroga.com.au

Map Out Your Lashes with MODELROCK LASHPLAY!

MODELROCK brings you another Original MODELROCK Design and the latest in lash customisation with LASHPLAY! Ready-to-Wear Pre-glued Mapping Clusters – the ultimate in convenience and lash transformation in just seconds! Further embracing the DIY time-saving trend, and listening to customer demand, MODELROCK’s Pre-glued Mapping Cluster Sets literally take the guesswork out of where to place your lash clusters. and do the work for you! Say good-bye to messy glues and hello to a no-fuss, pre- glued lash band! It’s easy to create your own lash look – simply follow the map starting from the inner corner through to the outer corner, positioning the clusters underneath your natural lashes. Once applied, gently press and fuse the clusters and your natural lashes together to secure for an all-day, long-lasting hold. Unleash your creativity by customising the clusters and experimenting with different lengths and styles, to achieve your desired style!

Made from Luxe Korean PBT Fibers, your Pre-glued Mapping Set Clusters are reusable when treated with care. www.modelrocklashes.com

Tech That Transforms: How Phorest Software Supports Skin Clinics Behind the Scenes

In the world of beauty and aesthetics, where results, relationships, and reputation matter deeply, having the right salon software is more than a back-end convenience, it’s a business essential. Whether you’re running a multi-room clinic in a regional town or launching a boutique skin studio in the heart of the Gold Coast, technology can either hold you back or help you thrive.

That’s why more and more clinic owners are turning to Phorest. Designed specifically for salons, spas, and skin clinics, the platform goes beyond bookings and POS to offer powerful client engagement tools, automated marketing, business support, and a level of care that feels genuinely human.

In this feature, we hear from two clinic owners, Ainslie Lidstone of Many Faces Aesthetics and Eliza McArlein of E’Aesthetics Skin, about their experiences with Phorest so far.

MANY FACES AESTHETICS @manyfacesaesthetics

Owner: Ainslie Lidstone  With Phorest Since: 2018

Ainslie Lidstone

Located in regional Victoria, Many Faces Aesthetics has proudly served its local community for more than 13 years. Founded by Ainslie Lidstone, the clinic is known for its results-driven approach to skin, offering advanced treatments, customised facials, and targeted skincare solutions in a warm and professional setting.

More than a skin clinic, Many Faces is a space where clients are supported throughout their journey. Ainslie combines over a decade of clinical expertise with genuine care, believing that radiant, healthy skin should feel just as good as it looks.

Why did you ultimately choose Phorest over other software options?

We were looking for a system that aligned with our focus on personalised care and operational excellence. Phorest stood out with its complete suite of features designed specifically for salons and clinics. The intuitive interface, robust client management tools, and integrated marketing capabilities gave us confidence that it would support both our growth and our clients’ experience.

What feels different about working with Phorest compared to other companies you’ve worked with?

It’s been such a refreshing change. The Phorest team genuinely cares and understands the beauty industry. Their support is both professional and personal. We’ve felt so valued throughout the journey; the engagement and responsiveness exceeded our expectations.

Are there any Phorest features that have made a real impact in your clinic?

Absolutely, marketing is the standout. Nothing compares to Phorest’s marketing tools. It’s made a huge difference, especially with Google reviews. Clients can leave feedback so seamlessly, and the integration is effortless but incredibly effective. The platform is easy to navigate, and what I love most is that the team really listens to feedback and regularly updates the software based on what users actually need. That level of responsiveness is rare.

How would you describe your communication experience with the Phorest team?

Exceptional. From onboarding right through to now, the communication has been consistent and clear. They’re proactive, helpful, and always willing to make sure our needs are met. The regular Grow Meetings I have with Jess keep me updated and ensure I’m using the platform to its full potential. I genuinely feel seen, heard, and supported.

E’AESTHETICS SKIN

@e.aestheticsskin

Owner: Eliza McArlein  With Phorest Since: 2024

Eliza McArlein

Based in Bundall on the Gold Coast, E’Aesthetics Skin is the vision of dermal therapist Eliza McArlein, who opened the clinic in 2024 after more than a decade in skin correction. Eliza holds an Associate Degree in Applied Health Science (Dermal Therapy) and brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work. Having lived with eczema since childhood, Eliza understands the emotional and physical struggles that come with chronic skin conditions. E’Aesthetics was born from a desire to create a safe, empowering space where people can show up as they are, feel truly cared for, and leave with renewed confidence. Clients are never rushed or treated like just another number, there’s always time to unwind, be heard, and get the skin results they deserve.

Why did you choose Phorest for your clinic?

I was looking for an all-in-one solution, and Phorest offered everything I needed. The support was friendly, I had access to ongoing training, and the business tools were really comprehensive. I’d also heard great things from other salons, which gave me confidence. Features like Ads Manager were a big drawcard, it’s helped my business grow quickly.

How has the support and experience been for you?

Honestly, it’s been amazing. From the very beginning, I could schedule as many Grow Meetings with my Business Advisor, Jess, as I needed. Every time I reached out, no question was ever too small or silly. They always made me feel comfortable and supported, like part of the Phorest Family. The onboarding was smooth, and I received all the training materials to download and refer back to. The Support Team is incredibly helpful, and if something falls outside their role, they’ll make sure someone gets in touch within 24 hours. It’s that kind of care that sets them apart.

What changes have you noticed in your business since using Phorest?

Everything has improved, truly. It’s helped me not only with day-to-day bookings but also with growth. I can now focus on marketing and building a strong client base rather than just managing appointments. It’s been a huge part of my business development.

Which Phorest tools have made the biggest difference for you?

Definitely Ads Manager and email marketing. Everything is integrated, so I don’t have to export or import anything just to reach my clients. I can track my outreach clearly, and it’s made a real impact. Also, those Grow Meetings with Jess, having that one-on-one connection with someone who understands the software and the industry has been so helpful.

From long-standing clinics to newly launched spaces, Phorest continues to prove itself as more than just a software provider, it’s a true partner. For Ainslie and Eliza, it’s not only about streamlined operations and powerful tools, but also about feeling genuinely supported by a team that listens, guides, and evolves with them.

Because in a business built on care, trust, and transformation, having that same level of support behind the scenes makes all the difference.

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.

MATTER OF FACT:

Skincare That Performs with Purpose

Distributed in Australia by Salon Pro Aus, MATTER OF FACT is redefining professional skincare with a focus on science, stability, and simplicity. Founded by Paul Baek, the brand is built around Actisolv™, a patent-pending technology that stabilises and delivers active ingredients like Vitamin C and Azelaic Acid at optimal concentrations, with minimal irritation and proven results.

Each product undergoes rigorous testing through independent, third-party labs and is assessed across three methods: dermatologist and expert grading, instrumental measurements, and consumer self-assessments. Clinical trials are conducted across a wide range of skin tones and age groups, ensuring the results are reflective of real-world users.

Rather than overwhelming users with extensive product ranges, MATTER OF FACT keeps its offering focused and deliberate. Every formula is minimal, intentional, and designed for maximum performance, with elegant textures and real, measurable outcomes.

Backed by Professionals, Distributed by Salon Pro Aus

MATTER OF FACT is distributed in Australia by Salon Pro Aus, a boutique supplier of forward-thinking professional brands. While Director Simon Pitt is known in the industry for his decades of leadership across global salon manufacturers, it’s Educator and Beauty Therapist Megan Pitt who leads the professional education and hands-on support for the brand.

With over 30 years in the beauty industry, Megan’s experience spans roles with Steiner (onboard cruise ships), Elemis UK, Guinot UK & Australia, and work in top-tier retail environments including Harrods, Selfridges, and David Jones, with brands such as La Prairie and Decléor. For the past 13 years, she has balanced her real-world experience with a strong commitment to education through her longstanding role as a Beauty Educator at Bendigo TAFE.

To provide an independent expert perspective on the MATTER OF FACT range, Megan sat down with one of the industry’s most trusted voices in dermal therapy and education, Gay Wardle.

Gay brings over 40 years of experience as an award-winning educator, mentor, and business owner. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science in Dermal Therapies, has lectured at leading universities, and is the founder of the Skin Success Community, a platform dedicated to skin health education for professionals and clients alike.

MEGAN PITT CHATS WITH GAYE WARDLE

Gay, where did you first meet Simon Pitt and how did you first hear about MATTER OF FACT?

I first met Simon Pitt at an industry event where innovation and skin science were the key focus. We immediately connected through our shared passion for evidence-based skincare and education. When Simon introduced me to MATTER OF FACT, I was intrigued by the brand’s strong scientific foundation and commitment to high-performance formulations. As someone who values integrity and innovation in skincare, I was naturally curious to explore the brand further.

There’s a lot of buzz about the skincare brand MATTER OF FACT. What’s your expert opinion?

As someone who’s spent decades studying skin biology and working with clients and clinicians, I can say MATTER OF FACT stands out for all the right reasons. What impresses me most is the brand’s unwavering focus on stability, efficacy, and skin compatibility. Their formulations aren’t just trendy, they’re built on robust scientific research. The thoughtful combination of ingredients, especially the stability of vitamin C in their products, shows a deep understanding of what the skin truly needs to thrive. It’s a brand that aligns with modern skincare values: results without compromise.

Thoughts on their L Ascorbic acid, encapsulated retinol, and azelaic formulations? MATTER OF FACT’s formulations reflect an exceptional understanding of both skin physiology and ingredient chemistry. Their L-ascorbic acid stands out due to its unique waterless delivery system, which helps maintain stability, a known challenge with vitamin C. This ensures the skin receives consistent antioxidant protection and collagen support without the irritation that can sometimes occur with unstable formulas.

The encapsulated retinol is equally impressive. It offers a controlled release, minimising the common side effects associated with retinol while still delivering visible improvements in skin texture, tone, and firmness. It’s gentle yet effective, something I always look for, especially when treating sensitive or compromised skin.

As for their azelaic formulation, it’s beautifully balanced. Azelaic acid is a quiet achiever in clinical skincare, known for addressing inflammation, pigmentation, and breakouts. MATTER OF FACT’s version is elegant in texture and highly tolerable, which is crucial for consistent use and long-term results.

How do their formulations compare to other clinical-grade brands?

What sets MATTER OF FACT apart is the synergy between scientific precision and user experience. Many clinical-grade brands lean heavily on strong actives, which can sometimes compromise barrier function or cause sensitisation. MATTER OF FACT takes a different path, they deliver high-performance ingredients in sophisticated, well-tolerated vehicles that prioritise skin health.

Their minimalist yet potent ingredient decks avoid unnecessary fillers, fragrances, and irritants. It’s clear that every formulation has been meticulously crafted with stability, bioavailability, and real-world results in mind. Compared to other clinical-grade lines, MATTER OF FACT strikes a rare balance: science-led without being aggressive, luxurious without being superficial. It’s a brand I trust, both professionally and personally.

Would you recommend MATTER OF FACT for sensitive or acne-prone skin?

Yes, MATTER OF FACT has done a beautiful job formulating products that meet the needs of both sensitive and acne-prone skin. Their Resurfacing + Hydrating Serum is a standout, it combines gentle yet effective exfoliation with deep hydration. For acne-prone skin, this balance is critical. The inclusion of glycolic acid and gluconolactone helps to refine pores and smooth texture without stripping the skin or disrupting its natural barrier. For sensitised or reactive skin types, the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment and Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser are ideal. Both are fragrance-free and formulated with barrier-supportive ingredients like squalane, glycerin, and antioxidants. They’re non-comedogenic, calming, and help restore the skin’s natural resilience—making them excellent for daily use, even on compromised skin.

Would you recommend it for rosacea or eczema sufferers?

Yes, particularly the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment and the Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser. These products are exceptionally well-suited to skin affected by rosacea or eczema. They’re free of known irritants, fragrance, and harsh actives, and they focus on soothing, hydrating, and restoring the skin barrier.

The antioxidant blend in the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment helps neutralise free radical damage and calm inflammation, both of which are key in managing rosacea. The Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser offers rich hydration without heaviness or occlusion, which can sometimes exacerbate eczema flare-ups. These formulations allow compromised skin to repair itself in a calm and supportive environment, which is exactly what these conditions need.

They emphasize science-backed skincare, do their claims stand up?

Absolutely. What I admire about MATTER OF FACT is that their claims are not just marketing, they’re substantiated by meticulous formulation science. Each product is designed with ingredient stability, bioavailability, and clinical effectiveness in mind. Their waterless vitamin C delivery system, for example, directly addresses the instability issues that have long challenged traditional L-ascorbic acid products. This commitment to science is further reflected in their transparent communication and clinical-grade testing. It’s rare to see this level of research paired with such elegant, tolerable formulations. In my view, they’ve set a new standard for what science-backed skincare should look like.

Suitable for professional use in dermatology or aesthetic clinics?

Yes, MATTER OF FACT is absolutely suitable for integration into dermatology and aesthetic clinic settings. The formulations are sophisticated, stable, and well-tolerated, perfect for post-procedure recovery, barrier repair protocols, or adjunctive home care after in-clinic treatments like chemical peels, laser, or microneedling. Their minimalist approach reduces the risk of irritation while supporting skin health, which is a key concern in clinical environments. I would feel confident recommending this range to professionals looking for active yet gentle solutions that support long-term skin outcomes.

Would you recommend it for rosacea or eczema sufferers?

The antioxidant blend in the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment helps neutralise free radical damage and calm inflammation—both of which are key in managing rosacea. The Minimalist Hydrating Moisturiser offers rich hydration without heaviness or occlusion, which can sometimes exacerbate eczema flare-ups. These formulations allow compromised skin to repair itself in a calm and supportive environment, which is exactly what these conditions need.

Your thoughts on their minimalist skincare philosophy?

I find their minimalist skincare philosophy incredibly refreshing and much needed in today’s crowded beauty market. MATTER OF FACT isn’t about chasing trends or overwhelming the skin with multiple actives. Instead, they focus on formulating with intention, using fewer, clinically proven ingredients in optimal concentrations. This approach supports the skin’s natural function, reduces the risk of irritation, and helps clients build a skincare routine that is effective, sustainable, and gentle. It’s smart skincare rooted in science, not hype.

How transparent are they about clinical testing and results? MATTER OF FACT is one of the few brands I’ve seen that truly embraces transparency. They’re open about their formulation challenges, ingredient choices, and the data behind their results. You can clearly see the brand’s scientific rigour, not just in their ingredients, but in how they communicate with professionals and consumers alike. Their clinical testing is thorough, peer-informed, and shared in a way that helps you make informed decisions. In an industry where marketing often overshadows substance, this level of honesty is both rare and commendable.

What’s your personal favourite MATTER OF FACT product?

It’s hard to choose just one, but if I had to, I’d say the Barrier + Antioxidant Treatment is my current favourite. It’s a product I can confidently use on sensitised or post-treatment skin, and it delivers on every front—hydration, protection, and repair. The antioxidant blend is incredibly well-thought-out, and the texture is luxurious yet lightweight. It’s a staple in my own routine and something I regularly recommend to clients recovering from clinical treatments or dealing with inflammation.

www.salonproaus.com.au @salonproaus @matteroffact @gaywardle

Gay Wardle

K-Beauty Meets Clinical Power: INSKIN COSMEDICS

Launches Dr.esthé Spicule Treatments in Australia

In a move set to shake up Australia’s professional skincare scene, INSKIN COSMEDICS has officially welcomed Korean cosmedical leader Dr.esthé to its exclusive brand portfolio. Known for delivering cuttingedge innovation to industry professionals, INSKIN has expanded its offering with two highly advanced spicule-based facial treatments that promise clinical performance, minimal downtime and no devices required.

For those who haven’t yet encountered spicules, prepare to hear a lot more about them.

These microscopic, needle-like structures are derived from hydrolysed freshwater sponge and are gaining global recognition for their ability to rejuvenate and resurface skin without the trauma of invasive procedures. Unlike mechanical needling or chemical resurfacing, spicules work biologically, stimulating skin renewal by physically penetrating the stratum corneum, triggering increased collagen production, and supporting visible improvements in tone, texture and radiance.

Dr.esthé’s spicules stand out for their purity and performance. Meticulously extracted from European freshwater sponge and refined through a multistage purification process, they’re composed of bioavailable silica, which ensures both biocompatibility and consistency. Developed alongside more than 100 dermatologists and supported by the expertise of a worldrenowned pharmacist, Dr.esthé has earned the trust of over 3,000 clinics worldwide and is widely regarded as one of Korea’s most progressive K-Beauty cosmedical exports.

Now, thanks to INSKIN COSMEDICS, these cutting-edge protocols are available to Australian skin therapists who are seeking advanced solutions that bridge the gap between cosmetic and clinical skincare.

The launch introduces two hero treatments designed to meet the needs of diverse skin types and conditions: DR SPI-CURE and PEEL-N-GLOW. Both are 40-minute in-clinic procedures powered by potent spicule delivery systems and layered with scientifically proven actives.

DR SPI-CURE delivers one million spicules per treatment using a gentle dot-application protocol. The formulation includes a peptide complex, niacinamide and the brand’s proprietary Skin Derma Rejuven technology, making it ideal for clients concerned with ageing, fine lines and dullness. The treatment supports elastin and collagen synthesis, targets wrinkle depth and smooths texture with visible improvement after just one session.

PEEL-N-GLOW, on the other hand, is a dynamic resurfacing protocol that incorporates five million ultra-fine spicules. It’s offered in two formulations— one brightening and pigment-reducing, the other focused on acne-prone and congested skin. Both versions are infused with pearl extract, pearl

powder, volcanic ash and clinically active botanicals that exfoliate, refine and calm the skin, making it a multi-functional powerhouse for clients seeking transformation without downtime.

Maria Enna-Cocciolone, Founder and CEO of INSKIN COSMEDICS, has long been at the forefront of professional-only skincare distribution in Australia. With brands like O COSMEDICS, NEUROCOSMEDICS and INSKIN.CO already under her belt, the addition of Dr.esthé represents a bold move into the fast-growing spicule market.

“In such a fast-moving industry, our focus at INSKIN COSMEDICS is to ensure our clinic partners have access to a diverse range of treatment solutions that deliver real, visible results,” says Maria. “What excites me most about Dr.esthé’s spicule treatments is how they perfectly combine scientific innovation with practicality. They’re advanced, results-driven, affordable and incredibly easy to integrate into the clinic.”

She adds that the simplicity of application—no need for devices or complicated protocols—makes these treatments ideal for busy therapists who want to offer advanced results without investing in new equipment. “With minimal downtime and immediate textural improvement, they tick every box for both skin therapists and clients.”

Beyond results, INSKIN COSMEDICS is offering comprehensive face-toface education and certification to support Australian clinics adopting the Dr.esthé protocols. It’s a move that reflects the company’s unwavering commitment to education, results and empowering skin professionals with the knowledge and confidence they need to thrive.

Founded on authenticity and integrity, INSKIN COSMEDICS continues to set new standards in the professional skincare sector. With a strong reputation built on brand transparency, education-first philosophy and a curated portfolio of results-driven solutions, the addition of Dr.esthé further strengthens its position as a leader in professional aesthetics.

Dr.esthé represents more than just another brand launch. It’s the meeting of science, simplicity and sophistication—delivering a high-performance skincare solution that aligns perfectly with Australia’s ever-growing appetite for advanced treatments that don’t compromise skin health or practitioner ease.

As INSKIN COSMEDICS continues to champion the evolution of professional skincare, Dr.esthé’s arrival offers clinics across the country a powerful new way to treat skin conditions with precision, purity and proven results.

Welcome to the future of facial rejuvenation.

@inskincosmedics

Unleashing the Power of Skin Recovery: Dermalogica PRO’s Exo Booster!

In the evolving world of professional skincare, treatments that blend advanced science with real, visible results are the gold standard. Dermalogica PRO’s Exo Booster is the latest innovation redefining what’s possible in skin rejuvenation. Powered by vegan exosome technology, this professionalgrade booster is specifically designed to support skin recovery, restore resilience, and dramatically revitalise the skin’s overall appearance.

What is the Exo Booster?

The Exo Booster is a targeted, leave-on professional serum developed to enhance post-treatment results. It is used during advanced skin services and is ideal for integration with technologies such as microneedling, nano-infusion, and other skin-rejuvenating modalities.

Its hero ingredient? Exosomes – tiny, bioactive vesicles naturally produced by skin cells that act as messengers, helping to coordinate repair and regeneration. By harnessing biomimetic exosome technology, Dermalogica PRO has formulated a vegan exosome booster that stimulates the skin’s own repair mechanisms without irritation, making it suitable even for sensitive or compromised skin post-treatment.

Why Exosomes

Matter

Skincare

Exosomes are at the cutting edge of dermatological science. These micro-vesicles carry growth factors, peptides, and other molecular signals that influence cell behaviour – particularly healing and regeneration. When applied topically in a carefully stabilised formulation, as in the Exo Booster, they can deliver messages to the skin that promote firmness, elasticity, hydration, and barrier strength.

Unlike traditional active ingredients that may focus on exfoliation or superficial stimulation, exosomes work deep within the skin’s cellular network, offering long-term benefits for clients concerned with ageing, sensitivity, dullness, or slow recovery post-treatment.

Clinical-Level Results, Without Downtime

One of the standout features of the Exo Booster is its ability to deliver advanced results with minimal to no downtime. In clinical observations, skin treated with the Exo Booster showed improved barrier recovery, reduced redness, and increased hydration following professional treatments. This makes it an ideal choice for:

• Post-microneedling recovery

• Soothing sensitised or reactive skin

• Restoring barrier strength after chemical peels or exfoliating treatments

• Boosting overall radiance and resilience in dull, tired skin

Its lightweight texture and fast-absorbing formula make it an effortless addition to any professional treatment protocol, and its neutral scent and colour mean it won’t interfere with other formulas layered in the service.

Key Benefits and Ingredients

• Vegan Exosome Technology: Encourages communication between skin cells to enhance recovery and support regeneration.

• Pro Resolution Technology: Omega 3 derived from algae to accelerate wound healing and skin recovery

• Hydrating Complex: Includes humectants that deeply replenish moisture without heaviness.

• Barrier-Strengthening Agents: Help restore the skin’s lipid matrix and calm signs of irritation.

• Antioxidant Support: Defends against environmental stressors and supports collagen health.

Elevating the Client Experience

From a business perspective, the Exo Booster is a powerful tool for enhancing service outcomes and building client trust. When clients experience faster recovery and noticeable improvements after treatments, they are more likely to rebook, commit to a full treatment plan, and explore other professional offerings.

It’s also a high-value add-on that supports both treatment efficacy and client satisfaction – perfect for clinics looking to offer something innovative and results-driven without having to invest in additional devices or extended treatment times.

Enhance your services

The Dermalogica PRO Exo Booster is more than just another serum –it’s a cutting-edge innovation that bridges the gap between science and skin health. Backed by the trusted Dermalogica PRO line, it empowers skin therapists to deliver enhanced recovery, visibly brighter and healthier skin, and a client experience that reflects the latest in skin science.

Whether you’re seeking to elevate your post-treatment protocol or offer clients a new way to boost their skin’s resilience, the Exo Booster is a must-have for resultsoriented professionals.

For more information, scan below or contact us at 1800-659-118

TREATMENT TABLE THE edit

Comfortel’s electric treatment tables and beauty beds offer smooth, effortless adjustments with medically approved motors. Available in modern colours to suit any space, they’re designed for professionals who value style and performance.

Beauty meets Biotech with Goddess .

BioTech Blowout™ operates at the intersection of advanced skincare science and hair health, using lab-designed peptide molecules to replicate the effects of natural proteins found in healthy hair. Beauty therapists, salon owners, and hair professionals alike are seeing results like easier detangling, better curl retention, and longer-lasting styles, all signs the hair is not just being protected, but actually repaired.

Peptides have become a gold standard in skincare, and now their power is making waves in haircare. BioTech Blowout™ uses two types of peptides: micro peptides that penetrate deep into the hair’s cortex to strengthen from within, and macro peptides that stay on the surface to smooth, shield, and protect against damage.

This dual-action approach can increase hair strength by up to 173% and visibly improve strand thickness. The result? Less breakage, fewer split ends, and a smoother, shinier finish your clients will love.

A Beauty Therapist’s Secret Weapon

A perfect retail addition to any busy beauty salon or clinic, BioTech Blowout™ is quickly becoming a must-have on the shelf and can compliment skin treatments for the hair and scalp.

With its fusion of high-performance ingredients and simple application, BioTech Blowout™ is more than a styling step, it’s a targeted treatment your clients will appreciate.

“It Works While You Style”

Clients can simply apply it to damp hair after washing, and it immediately begins working inside the hair shaft to rebuild structure, while also protecting the cuticle from heat, up to 232 degrees. For beauty salons that offer express styling, makeup and hair packages, or event-ready finishes, this is a real value-add.

It even doubles as a pollution shield, helping protect clients’ hair from daily environmental stressors, perfect for inner-city clients who want their look to last.

Worth the Price — and the Hype?

At $75.00 (Client price) for a 50ml bottle, BioTech Blowout™ sits in the prestige bracket. But when you consider that it acts as a deeprepair treatment, heat protectant, styling primer, and anti-pollution shield, all in one sleek tube, it’s worth every drop.

It’s ideal for clients who feel like they’ve tried everything: protein masks, bond builders, leave-ins, and still experience breakage or frizz. This isn’t just about appearance. BioTech Blowout™ strengthens the hair from the inside out, so each use gets results.

Whether you’re a skin therapist who finishes treatments with a quick blow-dry, or a beauty professional offering special-occasion styling, this is your chance to showcase something clients can see and feel straight away. Talk them through how quickly the hair dried, the silky, shiny finish, and how little product was used. Then ask, “Would you like to take one home?”

At Hair Body and Soul in Camberwell, renowned for seamlessly combining skin, body, and hair services, BioTech Blowout™ has become a staple for both clients and therapists alike. Here’s how they’re using it, and why it’s become a favourite in their space.

We spoke with co-owners Michelle McCubbin-Gannon and Pina Khalalf to learn more about how BioTech Blowout™ fits into their service approach, client education, and retail offering.

How do you explain what it does to your clients?

We love that it’s an all-in-one. It offers heat protection, smoothing and conditioning in one step. It’s also great for travel. We show the amount visually, about the size of a little fingernail, and walk them through application.

What sort of results are you and your clients getting?

Hair is much easier to blow-dry, especially coarse or frizzy hair. It helps extend the life of the blow-dry and forms a light coating on the hair that repels moisture and humidity, perfect for curly-haired clients who usually avoid drying because of frizz.

What do your clients like about it?

They love the travel-friendly size and the fact they only need one product to cover all the bases.

How does it fit into your salon pricing and retail?

We explain the results and let the product speak for itself. It fits in seamlessly with our other offerings. It’s one of the most versatile products we’ve used in years, and clients find it very user-friendly. The tube format also makes it easy, no pumps, no mess.

www.salonproaus.com.au

The Rise of the Freelance Beauty Professional , Navigating a New Era of Independence.

The Australian beauty landscape is undergoing a remarkable transformation, with more professionals than ever breaking away from traditional employment to embrace freelance independence. From nail artists setting up home studios to makeup artists building mobile businesses, and beauticians offering personalised treatments from dedicated spaces, the trend shows no signs of slowing down.

What was once viewed as a distant possibility has rapidly become reality, with the pandemic acting as both disruption and catalyst for this shift in how beauty professionals work.

Whether you’re considering going solo, already made the jump, or just curious about what all the fuss is about, understanding the realities of freelance beauty work has never been more crucial.

The transition isn’t just about changing workplaces; it’s about reimagining career possibilities. But it also means getting your head around the real stuff that matters, think sorting out your ABN situation without getting tangled up with the ATO, or working out which insurance you actually need versus what gets pushed on you.

Expert advice from registered BAS agent Cassandra Scott provides crucial practical tips: “You absolutely should separate personal and business finances. Keeping your TFN out of business transactions helps protect your privacy and minimises risk.” Her rule of thumb for financial planning? Set aside 25–30% of your income for tax obligations, and 11.5% for superannuation (increasing to 12% from July 2025). “You don’t want surprises at tax time, and the ATO has no patience with late payers. Automate your savings if you can,” Scott advises.

Take Sara Teixeira, who’s been in the industry for over 32 years. “I started freelancing before buying my business,” she explains. “Over the years, my business has evolved, and today, I work independently.” Then there’s Emily Mae Canu, who found her niche: “I’m free to focus on what I love”.

The freelance path isn’t without challenges, especially when you consider how client behaviour is shifting in the beauty industry. Recent industry data from Shortcuts’ Industry Report reveals that only 53% of beauty clients book their next appointment before leaving, with many beauty services seeing clients return every 12 weeks on average. Emily’s advice on managing the business side is refreshingly honest: “Always put away a percentage of your earnings every month to cover your tax bill and accounting costs... The alternative is a nasty shock at the end of the year – and be warned, the ATO will not be sympathetic if you haven’t got it covered.”

What makes the difference between success and struggle are real experiences and expert insights. Emily’s approach to authenticity has shaped her success: “Best decision was to stay true to myself in my work. If I remain authentic to my values in my business, then my trustworthiness and honesty will be relayed to my clients.” For beauty professionals, understanding that retention rates are lower than for the hair industry (72% vs 82%) means working harder to keep clients coming back, especially when beauty services often have longer gaps between appointments.

The technology aspect is crucial for independent operators. As Sara points out, being able to “access my schedule anytime, anywhere, which helps me stay on top of bookings without being tied to the salon all

day” has been game-changing for her workflow. This flexibility matters more than ever for beauty professionals working from home studios or offering mobile services, where traditional salon infrastructure isn’t available.

The traditional salon model is evolving rapidly, but so are clients. With lifestyle factors playing a larger role in booking decisions and clients increasingly flexible with their work schedules, the demand for accessible, round-the-clock booking options has never been higher. Beauty businesses also have significant opportunities in retail, with industry data showing retail can represent up to 22% of total revenue. Setting up affiliation partnerships with product brands and suppliers can provide additional income streams for independent operators. Whether freelancing is the right path for you is entirely personal, but understanding what’s involved helps you make informed decisions about your career future.

The freelance beauty revolution is here, and the professionals who understand both the opportunities and challenges are the ones thriving in this new landscape.

Needing a solution to support your solo beauty business? Check out Shortcuts Aire at www. shortcutsaire.com, it’s free!

* All the industry data points are cited from the November 2024 report “prepared by Shortcuts Australia Pty Limited” that covers 711 customers across Australia and New Zealand from September 2023 to August 2024.

The Future of Hair: Rejuvenation Has Arrived. And it all starts in the scalp…

As the beauty and skincare industry continues to evolve, one modality has consistently stood out for its versatility and effectiveness: microneedling. DermapenWorld™’s Dermapen 4️™ has revolutionised the way we approach a range of skin concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to pigmentation, acne, rosacea, scars and more.

However, the scalp is the next frontier where DermapenWorld is making a particularly significant impact by offering clients an advanced solution to one of the most emotionally charged aesthetic challenges: hair loss.

Whether you’re looking to add a new revenue stream, attract new patients, or upgrade the services you already offer, Dermapen 4 and the Dp Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW Collection™ can help position your clinic at the forefront of the hair restoration market.

Elevating

Microneedling for Hair Restoration

Microneedling, the process of using fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin, has long been recognised as a powerful tool for rejuvenation.

The Dermapen 4, the gold standard in microneedling devices, enhances this technique by delivering unparalleled precision, comfort and speed, making it the ideal device for a variety of skin concerns. However, the versatility of Dermapen 4 goes beyond skin resurfacing—its ability to stimulate hair follicles and improve scalp health has been an exciting development for skincare professionals. Traditionally, microneedling for hair restoration required combination therapies such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or prescribed topical medications. But now, DermapenWorld is taking things to the next level with the Dp Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW Collection—a groundbreaking range of products that harness the power of exosome technology to enhance the appearance and density of hair.

Optimising Scalp Health as a Hair Loss Solution

The scalp is home to thousands of hair follicles that are directly impacted by skin health. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that Dermapen 4 procedures for hair loss have been incredibly effective in improving scalp circulation, stimulating follicular activity, breaking down scar tissue that inhibits follicles, enhancing the infusion of topical products and promoting the overall condition of the hair.

The introduction of the EXO-GROW Collection builds on these established benefits, incorporating science-backed, innovative ingredients that work to strengthen and rejuvenate both the scalp and strands.

Tailored Solutions for Different Types of Hair Loss

From androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) to traction alopecia and telogen effluvium, there are many different types of hair loss. With the EXO-GROW Collection, DermapenWorld is providing professionals with the tools to address concerns in a way that’s both scientifically rigorous and emotionally transformative.

This proprietary Exosome technology can be used as a standalone solution or in conjunction with Dermapen 4 procedures to provide comprehensive care.

Key ingredients like Exosomes, Sophora Japonica Plant Exo Extracts, and PDRN Polynucleotides are scientifically proven to promote hair follicle rejuvenation, while Ceramide ComplexA and Amino Acids work to nourish and strengthen hair from root to tip.

Not All Exosomes Are Created Equal

Clinically proven and powered by Exosomes with a patented IMMUNE TOLERANT HLA-G COMPLEXA™, the EXO-GROW Collection ensures that results don’t plateau. Unlike traditional Exosome solutions, the benefits continue to accumulate over time.

The Power of Synergy: Why EXO-GROW Works Best as a System

The EXO-GROW Collection is designed as an integrated system where each product complements and amplifies the effects of the others. From the professional-only MG-EXO-GROW MesoGlide™ to the at-home solutions EXO-GROW HAIR TONIC™, SHAMPOO™, CONDITIONER™ and SCALP MASK™, every element works harmoniously to achieve optimal results. There’s even an EXO-GROW COLOUR RECHARGE SHAMPOO BAR™ that further rejuvenates hair by returning greys to their natural colour!

Helping Patients Reclaim Their Identity & SelfConfidence

Hair loss is not just a cosmetic issue—it’s an emotional journey. By offering the EXO-GROW Collection together with Dermapen Treatments in your clinic, you’re not just providing a hair loss solution; you’re offering clients the chance to reclaim their confidence and sense of self.

With clinically proven results and a comprehensive range of products designed to deliver real, lasting outcomes, this collection allows you to attract new clients while expanding the services you already offer.

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The Regrets No Woman Can Afford.

By Elle Wilson

Are you missing something so big that the regret you’ll feel just isn’t worth it? Keep reading. It might sound cliché to say life is precious, but it is. Your life is a testament to your choices and why you made them. Feeling restless, frustrated, over-striving, or even the opposite, underachieving, isn’t your fate, it’s a misunderstanding we can face and surpass.

We’re all wired to chase more, to have more, do more. This human instinct no one escapes. If you’re overdriven, you know exactly what I mean: that relentless push, certain the next win will bring peace. If you’re underdriven, it’s the ache for what feels out of reach. This isn’t personal; it’s universal. As a mentor, my purpose isn’t to force balance, that’s a myth. It’s to open your eyes to where this “success instinct” hooks you, hurting you and those around you.

Unexamined, this instinct is brutal. It scrapes away the precious promise life offers every moment: to be present, to connect, to live fully now. That voice in your head, always aiming for the one big moment when everything clicks? It cares nothing for today. It’s a devastating myth, promising happiness in some far-off victory. No one can justify it, because the voice driving it is toxic, deceptive. We think the fix is to change that voice, but fighting it leaves us drained, defeated. So, we live like we’ll get another chance at this. We treat relationships like tools, steppingstones to the next goal. You rush out the door, barely glancing at your child, calling over your shoulder, “Don’t forget your lunch.” Your partner’s gone, your last words a quick, “You’re taking Will to soccer tonight, don’t forget. I’m working late.” Just another task, another need.

You reach your workspace, sigh, thinking you’ve shut the chaos out. You’re ready for your day, fueled by highs of progress and lows of pressure. But the meaning of your life slips past. The clock keeps ticking. The drive to succeed, to be appreciated, to feel worthy and seen? It’s the myth that the wrong voice sells you. Don’t take my word for it. Napoleon Hill exposed it in one of his books published 70 years after it was written. So controversial to his wife she held it back until they were both gone. This isn’t new wisdom. Ancient Greek mystics like Parmenides and Empedocles, long before Christianity, saw how easily we’re deceived, chasing illusions over what’s real.

Success isn’t in big awards, fancy cars, or dream vacations. It’s in the quiet moments of connection: locking eyes with your partner through a tough talk, hearing your teenager’s heart when it’s messy, bending down to meet your toddler’s desperate need to be seen. She’s dying for you to see her, just as you’re still dying to be seen, and that human cycle rolls on.

When that false voice leads, loss hits harder. Grief, disappointment, betrayal become unbearable. We don’t grow stronger; we grow fragile, afraid. The regret creeps in, the kind you feel coming but don’t face. There are real answers to break this cycle, ways to become resilient, warm, fiercely alive. Start with these three steps to reclaim your days:

1. Make soft eye contact with your loved ones; don’t rush your goodbyes. That brief pause, that gentle gaze, anchors you in a connection that outlasts any agenda.

2. Remind yourself that all the peace you need is within you. The world doesn’t dictate your power to be deeply grateful in any moment. It’s not about things or accomplishments; it’s about meaningful awareness of what you have right now.

3. Check in and ground yourself regularly through your day. Be present in your body. Take a breath. Look around. You’re doing your best, and that pulls you back to now.

As entrepreneurial women with thriving businesses and bold careers, we owe it to ourselves to ask the hard questions and find the answers that light the way. Don’t let regret write your story.

Elle Wilson Mentor to High Functioning Women International Educator and Speaker @ellewilson

AHPRA Guidelines: friend or foe? (PART 1)

By James Vivian

If you’re like me, your mind might be a little consumed with the newly released AHPRA guidelines that come into effect in September 2025.

Having spoken with many of my colleagues about their impending arrival, I am experiencing a wide variety of different emotions and feelings from the people around me…

“They’re heavily overdue!”

“How are they going to affect my business?”

“How will clients find us?”

“Finally, some standardised regulations to keep our clients safe.”

Before I share with you my personal feelings about the guidelines, I’d like to ask you some questions…

Are you someone who cares deeply about the safety of your clients?

Are you someone who is always looking for ways to improve your business?

Are you someone who is active on social media, has a website or promotes their business through EDMs and face-to-face communication?

Are you someone who is aware of the dangers that our industry can impose on our communities?

Are you someone who can see that improvements are needed to help clients find our services for the right reasons and at the right time?

If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, you might find, if not already, that the AHPRA ‘guidelines for registered health practitioners who perform non-surgical cosmetic procedures’ might be coming along at just the right time.

In last month’s Mocha Beauty issue I wrote about a personal desire to see a greater level of care given to the way in which we are showing up and communicating with the people who are engaging with our services. With the rise of social media, influencers, advances in technology and the supposed need for our services, people are seeking us out and literally hanging off our every word to decide on their next cosmetic movement. Add to this the recent and highly public scrutiny that the Australian cosmetic industry has and continues to be under due to unsafe, unethical and non-transparent work practices. Therefore, there has never been a better time to take a good hard look at the way in which we are keeping our clients safe both in and out of the treatment room.

Enter the AHPRA guidelines – a guide, in my opinion, created to help us distinguish between the right and wrong way to influence consumers, clients and colleagues through our words and actions.

Now these guidelines are going to mean something very different to all of us and I do think that there is an element of interpretation that one needs to connect the guidelines with our individual businesses.

When the guidelines landed in my inbox, it took me a good three or four read throughs, making more and more notes each time, to feel like I had taken everything out of the guidelines that were relevant to our business. Some of these we were already on top of, some of these I knew we needed to address but hadn’t taken the necessary steps as yet, and some of them I had yet to consider.

Between now and September, the team at JV and I are excited to work through our list of action points. The two main areas of focus for us are in the ways in which we promote ourselves on social media, as well as ensuring a greater level of transparency in helping our clients make informed decisions about the services they are considering.

How are you interpreting the guidelines? How are they making you feel? Protected? Empowered? Scared? Confused?

As with any change, you can dig your head in the sand, or you can see this is a blueprint for an even better stab at best practice customer care.

Lastly, I’d like to leave you with the first two points of the guidelines and the two that gave me the most cause for pause and I believe makes the guidelines more palatable and necessary.

Recognising potential conflicts of interest:

Registered health practitioners must recognise that conflicts of interest can arise when providing cosmetic procedures. This is particularly relevant given the commercial nature of the industry and the role that advertising and business models play in creating a demand for service. Practitioners must ensure that the care and wellbeing of the person they are providing cosmetic procedures to is their primary consideration.”

I have sectioned tackling the AHPRA guidelines into these 2 stages - Stage 1. Deciphering and Stage 2. Instigating.

In PART 2 of this article I will share with you the changes that we are making in our business that are aligned with the guidelines as well as using this as yet another opportunity to step back, consider what we’re doing, reviewing the impact that we’re having and taking the time to ensure the safety of our clients and followers beyond the guidelines.

Please reach out to me if you’d like to share with me your interpretation of the guidelines of if you feel you need any support and a friend to talk them through – james@jamesvivian.com.au

Turning a Dream into a Reality: How I Bought My Commercial Property and Why You Should Too

By Danni Boerma

For years, I dreamt of owning the walls that held my business. I was grateful for my landlord and had some flexibility with my salon’s layout, but deep down, I knew I was investing in someone else’s future, not mine. Every renovation, every upgrade, every dollar spent on improving the space wasn’t going into my equity. It was time to shift that dream into a strategic goal.

So, I made a plan and executed it. The result? Bliss Day Spa now operates in a space that I own, and I haven’t looked back since. This is the story of how I turned that vision into reality and the steps that can help you do the same.

Why Buy Commercial Property for Your Business?

1. You Build Equity, Not Just Rent Receipts: When you own your space, you’re investing in an appreciating asset. Every payment chips away at a loan, not vanishing into a landlord’s pocket. That equity builds your future wealth.

2. Stability and Control: Ownership brings predictability. You’re no longer subject to sudden rent hikes or the threat of non-renewal. You can plan long term and invest confidently in your business without fear of being moved along.

3. Tax Advantages: Owning commercial property comes with perks, like depreciation and mortgage interest deductions. For example, my air con unit, carpet, and even the new kitchen are all depreciable over time. These deductions make a big difference come tax time.

4. Long Term Investment Potential: Commercial real estate typically appreciates over time. In Sydney, we’ve seen the market bounce back with force as interest rates ease. That’s great news for those of us who bought in.

5. Additional Revenue Streams: If your space allows, you can lease out rooms to other professionals. Unlike renting, owning gives you full control over subleasing, no landlord approval needed, no rent hikes triggered.

6. Operational Flexibility: You can finally renovate and reconfigure as you please. I’ve divided large rooms, removed plumbing, and planned future renovations, all without needing anyone’s permission.

7. Financial Predictability: A fixed rate mortgage gives you consistency, no more annual rent increases to navigate. I remember the sting of an unexpected rent jump in my early Bliss Day Spa days. That was a turning point.

8. Asset Diversification & Retirement Planning: Owning a commercial property boosts your asset portfolio, something banks look on favourably. And down the track, the property can become a source of retirement income through leasing or selling.

How to Prepare Your Business to Purchase Property

This process doesn’t happen overnight, but it is very doable with planning.

1. Assess Your Financial Health: Gather your financial statements from the past 2–3 years: profit and loss, balance sheets, and cash flow reports. You may be pleasantly surprised to see how well you’re doing!

2. Understand Your Credit: Before you approach a bank, check your credit history. One missed phone bill can haunt you for years, as a friend of mine learned the hard way. Pay off debts, pay on time, and aim for a healthy credit score.

3. Start Saving for a Deposit: Aim for at least 20% of the property’s purchase price. Open a dedicated savings account or offset account to demonstrate financial readiness.

4. Boost Revenue and Trim Expenses: Look for areas to improve income, marketing, staff performance, retail lines and audit your expenses. For example, reducing towel orders saved me $300/month, which I redirected to marketing.

5. Explore Lending Options: Talk to brokers, compare interest rates, and understand the differences between residential and commercial loans. For us, refinancing our home made more financial sense than taking a commercial loan.

Get the Right Team Around You

• Broker: My broker guided me through multiple banks before landing on the right one.

• Accountant: Ours helped us set up a trust to purchase the property, offering protection and tax benefits.

• Solicitor & Agent: These pros helped navigate zoning, contracts, and negotiations.

Negotiating and Purchasing Your Property

Persistence pays off. I approached my landlord three times before he finally agreed to sell. I offered a bit above market value, but when I factored in the cost of relocating and fit out, it was a smart trade off. Don’t be afraid to explore new locations if your current landlord won’t budge, your clients will follow you.

Bonus Tips from My Journey

• Zoning matters: Make sure the property is approved for your type of business. Dreaming of a house turned salon? Check local council rules first.

• Document everything: A comprehensive business plan, market research, and financial forecasts make it easier to secure finance.

• Start early: I began working with my broker 18 months before purchasing. The earlier you prepare, the smoother it goes.

Final Thoughts

Owning your business premises is more than a financial milestone, it’s a statement of independence, vision, and legacy. Whether you’re just starting to dream or you’re nearly there, know that it’s possible. I did it and you can too !!

So here’s to building not just a business, but a future you can stand brick by brick, room by room, dream by dream.

Danni xx

True Confessions of the Only Boy at Beauty School .

By Will Fennell

I began my beauty journey in a busy Sydney salon back in 1994, just two months into my diploma. I was the go-to person for all the not-so-glamorous tasks—cleaning rooms, sweeping up clipped pubic hair, and handling bottom waxes for a range of wonderfully neurotic clients. For a boy like me, a self-proclaimed homo with a love for lip gloss and an obsession with body waxing, it felt like a dream come true.

I’d heard whispers that the Saturday before the big Mardi Gras party was the height of chaos, and they were dead right. It was makeover madness; I found myself waxing backs and cracks (no sacks yet, much to my disappointment), trimming the chests of muscly blokes, and shaping pubic hair into lush, perfect hedges. I even tinted eyelashes and eyebrows, wondering who would really notice in the dimly lit halls, but I quickly learned that my role was to cater to their beauty needs—no questions asked—finishing off with manicures and pedicures too, using sparkly nail polishes reminiscent of disco balls.

From the outset, I was naturally skilled at this job. Over the next three hours, I carefully removed every stray hair from his perfectly chiselled, tanned, and polished body. Meanwhile, he shared stories of how every man at Mardi Gras would drool and worship him. I didn’t doubt it; I was transfixed by this real-life Ken doll.

Amid the excitement, one client-catastrophe truly stands out. He entered, causing the salon to fall silent. He was the biggest, most muscular man I had ever seen. Was it his enormous size? The glossy shine of his sun-tanned, moisturised skin? Or perhaps it was that he had squeezed his massive frame into the tiniest, most daring pair of cut-off denim shorts I’ve ever seen, but I just couldn’t look away. In short, his waxing appointment got mixed up, and my boss (my current business partner, Peta) asked me to do my very first full-body wax on this steroidal Adonis.

Finally, I put down my spatula and declared, “Done!” His reaction? “What about my eyebrows?” As you know, shaping eyebrows with wax requires skill, and although I had practised during training, I felt more confident using tweezers. I recommended tweezer plucking, but he loudly rejected the idea, insisting they needed to be waxed.

In a moment of desperation, I left the room, seeking help, only to see a line of clients and my boss, overwhelmed by chaos from her own hair removal mishap. Summoning my courage, I stepped in to take charge. I repeated a confidence mantra, silently prayed to my Goddess (Kylie Minogue), and prepared to apply the wax as instructed.

Using the “strip waxing” technique I had learned for legs—which was my first mistake—I carefully applied the wax beneath his brow, pressed down three times with firm pressure, then counted to one before swiftly pulling it off.

Maybe I used too much wax. Perhaps I pressed too hard. Or maybe the universe was teaching him a lesson in humility for his vanity. But when that wax strip was pulled off, nearly his entire eyebrow came away with it. He looked like he had Hitler’s moustache above his left eye.

My heart sank, and I felt a wave of nausea come over me.

What followed was a whirlwind of chaos. Tears spilled—his and mine—along with an outrage that reverberated through the salon as he shrieked at my boss, “This little bastard has ruined Mardi Gras!” He stormed out, still hurling threats in my direction. I looked at my boss, bracing for the worst, ready for my inexperienced 19-year-old self to be sacked. But instead, her stern expression softened into laughter—the kind that rang out louder than anything I’d ever heard.

About that incredible sulk, he never returned, and I never used strip wax on eyebrows again. The moral of this story is simple: you learn from your mistakes, making them just as valuable as your successes.

Until next time, keep reaching for the stars.

Will x

Not Just Reception: How Front of House Drives Culture, Clients & Consistency

By Elle Huempel

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving beauty industry, the spotlight is often on service delivery, the results, the trends, the transformations that happen behind the chair or in our treatment room. What’s forgotten about is the power of the reception desk!

From the very first point of contact, the tone of voice on the phone, the warmth of a welcome – not just a hello, the smile a client can feel before they even walk through the door, your reception team has the power to turn a simple booking into a lasting relationship, increasing loyalty within your business. And when this is done and done well, this sets you apart from the salon down the road!

When developed the right way, your Front of House team doesn’t just keep things running. They become the heart & soul of your business, the capable, strategic and service-minded valuable team member/s that drives culture, consistency, and growth.

FROM RECEPTIONIST TO FRONTLINE LEADER

Reception is no longer a basic admin role. It’s the first and last point of contact in our client’s journey. It sets the tone, holds the rhythm of the day and directly impacts client satisfaction, team energy and revenue. And when your FOH team member is confident, clear on their role and feels empowered to lead, they stop reacting and start responding. When your reception leader speaks up with confidence, manages client conflict with calm maturity, knows what to prioritise, what to delegate and when to say no, they become a steady support for both the owner and their team, even on the busiest day. That’s leadership. And it can be developed!

CONFIDENCE COMES FROM CLARITY

Leadership development doesn’t start with a title. It starts with clarity. When your FOH team understand their strengths, values and what truly lights them up in their role, something shifts. They begin showing up differently, more intentional, more engaged, more proactive. It’s not about “doing more.” It’s about owning more. With the right coaching and conversations, receptionists go from “I’m just here to help” to “I’m an essential part of this business.” The difference is powerful and visible.

INITIATIVE, ACCOUNTABILITY & SMART PRIORITISATION

A high-performing FOH team member isn’t waiting to be told what to do. They take initiative. They communicate clearly. They follow through. We need to teach our reception team to identify daily opportunities to take it to the next level, to improve a system, solve a small issue, offer a new idea. These micro-leadership moments build their confidence and help them grow into someone the whole team can lean on. Accountability is just as important. It means being able to say, “I’ll have this done by 2pm” and following through. When things don’t go to plan, it’s about owning the ‘why’ and working towards a better solution. Prioritisation plays a huge role here too. Not everything can be urgent. Teaching FOH team members how to identify what truly matters, what can be delegated and how to protect their time helps the entire team operate more efficiently and with less stress.

WHY IT MATTERS MORE THAN EVER

In 2025, clients are expecting more than what they have booked in for. They want connection, consistency, ease. Imagine! If their expectation was exceeded?

And who delivers that day in and day out? Your Front of House team. A confident, empowered FOH team member drive rebooking and retail through natural, engaging conversations, keeps your team grounded and ensures your days run smoothly. They look for every opportunity, protect your energy as a business owner and hold the emotional tone of the entire business - especially when things get busy!

Systems, processes and structure are a must! When FOH staff have clear systems to follow, they’re less reactive, more strategic and can make stronger decisions under pressure.

Encouraging them to review current processes, suggest improvements and be part of shaping better flow not only improves efficiency, but it also helps them see the bigger picture of the business.

INVEST WHERE IT MATTERS

If you want to grow your business, start by growing who is at your front desk.

When you invest in your FOH team, not just as “admin” / “receptionists,” but as future leaders, you unlock a whole new level of strength and consistency in your business.

Because when Front of House leads with confidence, they love their job, your team thrives - and staff retention follows. When that energy is strong at the front, the whole business grows with it.

I would absolutely love to work with you and your team to create a culture where your Front Of House Team member/s become your greatest asset too!

admin@ellebusinesscoaching.com.au

Elle Huempel

The Future of the Beauty Industry Depends on You (Yes, You)

By Tamara Reid, CEO Inside Industry Consulting

Can we be super honest for a quick minute? Leadership in our industry isn’t just about owning a ‘seven-figure’ clinic, signing off on budgets, or being on stage at expo. It’s about legacy. It’s about who comes next. And right now, we’ve got a window - one that could shape the future of the professional beauty industry for the better… or close it, if we’re not paying attention.

There is an entire generation of future founders, therapists, educators and experts looking up at us right now. Watching how we treat each other. How we show up in rooms. How we respond to pressure. How we cheer (or compete) when someone else wins.

And whether we like it or not, they’re building their idea of what “success in this industry” looks like based on what we show them.

So I’ll ask you straight: what are we teaching them?

We Don’t Need More ‘Girl Bosses’. We Need Leaders.

If you’ve been in this game a while (whether you’re a clinic owner, product founder, educator, BDM or podcast host) you’re already in a position of influence. But influence doesn’t always mean impact, and they’re not the same thing. Impact happens when someone you’ve never met feels more confident because of what you shared. It happens when a young therapist feels safe to ask questions because you welcomed them into the conversation instead of brushing them off. It happens when you take 5 extra minutes to explain the why behind a decision, not just the what.

I know it’s easier to say “I’m too busy” or “they don’t want to listen anyway.” But that narrative? That’s tired. And it’s not leadership. If we want this industry to feel different (more collaborative, more united, more human) we have to be different. It starts with us. Now.

Gatekeeping Isn’t Leadership.

Let’s talk about the quiet competitiveness that sometimes creeps into our space. The “oh, she copied me” energy. The “but, she’s come out of no-where!” chat. The DMs that start with “just so you know…”

Here’s the truth: no one’s taking your place. Read that again.

There is enough room for every good educator, every brilliant therapist, every ambitious brand owner. Our value doesn’t decrease just because someone else enters the room. In fact, when we hoard knowledge or block opportunities to keep someone else small, we’re not protecting our position - we’re weakening the entire industry. Because if the next generation doesn’t feel seen, safe or supported here? They’ll go elsewhere. Or worse - they’ll show up in this space with that same scarcity mindset we passed on. And then we’ll wonder why nothing’s changing!

Leadership Doesn’t Need a Contract or a Course

Let’s squash the whole leadership = mentorship

thing while we’re here. You don’t need to be someone’s official mentor to show up with generosity. You don’t need to launch a program or a shadowing day or a 12-step journey to be impactful.

Sometimes leadership looks like:

• Forwarding a job ad that would suit them.

• Commenting on a thread that isn’t getting much traction

• Offering honest (but kind) feedback on a post they’re nervous to share.

• Letting them practice their pitch, or their consultation, or their class intro.

• Saying “you can do this” and meaning it. It can be that simple. And it’s never too late to start.

What You Normalise, They Adopt. This bit might sting a little - but it’s important. If you’re:

• Burnt out and glorifying the 5am wake up

• Running a team but never investing in them

• Showing off success without sharing context

• Critiquing other educators behind closed doors

…then don’t be surprised when that becomes the blueprint for the next wave.

Young therapists and future leaders are always watching. They pick up on our tone. Our patterns. Our energy. So what we choose to normalise today becomes their benchmark tomorrow.

If we want an industry that’s built on care, confidence and community, we need to model it. Loudly. Clearly. Consistently.

The Power of Invitation

One of the most powerful things you can do for someone up-and-coming?

Invite them in.

Into the room. The table. The group chat. The partnership.

So many clever cookies are standing on the sidelines, not because they’re not talented, but because they don’t feel welcome. Or worthy. Or ready.

But when someone they respect says, “Come with me,” something shifts. They borrow your confidence until theirs catches up. They start to believe they have a seat at the table - because you made space for them.

Let’s do more of that.

What We Build with People Will Outlive What We Build For Ourselves

If you’re reading this and thinking, “I do want to help, I just don’t know how”—you’re not alone. Not every leader had someone guiding them. Many of us figured it out the hard way. But that’s even more reason to create a softer landing for

the ones coming up behind us.

Maybe it starts with sharing your story more openly. Or hiring someone less experienced and training them up instead of choosing the ‘safe’ candidate. Or passing the mic to a younger educator at your next event.

Whatever it is, make it intentional. Because what we build together (across generations, across industry segments, across egos) is what will keep this industry thriving long after we’re gone.

And that? That’s legacy.

Let’s Keep the Community Over Competition Flame Burning

This phrase has been used so often it risks becoming cliché. But it’s still the goal, isn’t it?

Community over competition isn’t just an aesthetic for Instagram tiles. It’s a daily choice. A mindset. A commitment to lead with generosity even when it’s inconvenient.

And I get it. Not everyone will operate this way, heck there have been times where I haven’t shown up this way. But we don’t need everyone. We need a few strong voices. A few bold leaders. A few mentors who are willing to go first.

If you’ve ever wished this industry felt safer, warmer, more united - you’re the one who can help make it that way.

So: how are you showing up?

Not just for yourself. Not just for your business. But for the future of this industry?

Let’s raise our standards. Let’s widen the path. Let’s be the blueprint.

We’re not just shaping brands here.

We’re shaping humans.

And that? That’s the most important work of all. @tamarareiddd @insideindustryconsulting

How to Build a Regional Beauty Powerhouse Without Selling Your Soul!

By Carly Knowles

When I first opened my beauty clinic in a regional town, people smiled politely and said things like, “Oh, that’s nice. A little salon.” I’d just come back from the Gold Coast, armed with industry experience, city level standards, and a vision bigger than the main street. I had already been in business for 7 years with my clinic in Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast and had the desire to want to move my family back to my grass roots of regional Victoria and to expand my business to multiple locations.

Fast forward to today, Bella Pelle Body Clinic isn’t just a business, it’s part of the town’s heartbeat. We’re known for results driven dermal therapies, top tier customer service, and a vibe that feels like both a warm hug and a pep talk. But building a beauty biz in a regional area without becoming “just another little salon” wasn’t easy. It takes grit, guts, and a whole lot of giving a damn.

Here’s what I’ve learned about building a thriving beauty business outside the big smoke, without ever selling your soul (or your prices short).

Lead with Values, Not Offers

In small towns, people can spot a gimmick from 3 streets away. Sure, discounts might get feet in the door, but values keep people coming back. We built our brand around integrity, education, inclusivity, and personalised care, and we live those values in every treatment, conversation, and social media post. Our clients aren’t just customers, they’re neighbours, friends, and sometimes even our biggest cheerleaders.

Don’t Apologise for Having High Standards

Yes, we’re in regional Victoria. No, we won’t cut corners. Clients respect high standards when you communicate why they matter. We educate at every touchpoint, from the consult to the checkout, because empowered clients are loyal ones. Our treatments aren’t just trendy, they’re evidence based, safe, and tailored. That’s why people drive from other towns & even the big smoke to see us!

Build a Team That Feels Like

Family (But Better)

The right team doesn’t just change your business…it changes your life.

It’s taken me years to find the team we have now in our beautiful regional clinic, and believe me, the road has been bumpy. We’ve had our fair share of the wrong fits, but today? I’m surrounded by emotionally intelligent, resilient, hard-working women who genuinely care, about the business, about the clients, and most importantly, about each other. They’re respectful, driven, and deeply invested. These days, we don’t just hire for skills, we hire for fit! We hire for values, for kindness, for heart. And when your team is aligned like that, your entire brand shifts, the energy is different, the culture is magnetic, and clients feel it the second they walk in the door. This is what building a regional beauty powerhouse without selling your soul really looks like. Good humans only vibes!

Bring the City to the Country, But Make It Yours

I’ve always believed that regional communities deserve the same access to high performance treatments, advanced education, and industry innovation as city clinics, no exceptions.

But we don’t just copy and paste what’s trending in the metro market. We adapt it. We shape it. We make it ours. Because our clients want more than just results, they want real connection, consistency, and a space that truly gets them. That’s the heart of what we do. And when it comes to industry partnerships? Let’s just say we’ve learned to stop tolerating BS. For too long, regional clinics like ours have been overlooked by product companies who think “regional” means less worthy. We’re not just participating, we’re driving results, we’re spending big, and we’re proudly flying the flag for the brands we believe in. So, if you want us repping your brand with passion, professionalism and integrity, then show up for us regionals with the same level of support and attention you give the city clinics. Trust me, we will be worth it!

Carly Knowles

Community is the Ultimate Marketing Strategy

Forget fancy marketing strategies, nothing beats genuine community involvement. We sponsor local events, partner with neighbouring businesses, and show up when it matters. Being visible and valuable in your town is worth more than any influencer campaign. It builds trust, reputation, and a client base that sticks with you through thick and thin.

Be Real. Be Brave. Be Bloody Good.

Running a premium clinic in a regional area takes courage. But if you can lead with heart, stay curious, and back yourself and your team fully, you’ll create something people want to be a part of. Not just a business, but a brand that stands for something. And the best part? You get to do it all surrounded by people who know your name, your story, and (sometimes unfortunately) your coffee order.

Building a powerhouse clinic in a regional town isn’t about shortcuts or shiny trends. It’s about doing the work, staying true to your values, and backing yourself even when it feels hard. It’s taken time, resilience, and a few battle scars, but I’ve learned that you can create something world class outside the city, without selling your soul. The secret? A team that cares, a culture that connects, and the courage to do things your own way. Regional doesn’t mean behind, it means grounded, loyal, and full of opportunity if you’re willing to dig in and lead with purpose.

I’m genuinely excited about the future of regional beauty businesses, we’re no longer trying to prove ourselves to the industry gatekeepers or chase validation from anyone who thinks we’re beneath them. Because at the end of the day, we are the lucky ones, the money we make, the client relationships we build, and the freedom that comes with running a high revenue business in a low overhead location. Regional isn’t second best; it’s the best kept secret.

@bellapelle

We All Want New Clients!

By Jay Chapman

Well…. Most of us do! For those that are already too busy, WELL DONE! Having a wait list and demand outweighing supply is a very good problem to have.

But before we hit marketing hard, there’s a few things I want you to think about before you open the floodgates. When we deep dive into the role that new clients play in our business, it often surprises me how many salon owners take for granted the number of new clients on the weekly reports.

A quiet salon can have STACKS of new clients, but we give them to the least qualified team member, we don’t track retention, or you hog them all to yourself!

Today, I want to take you on a deep dive into your new client numbers AND experience. We need to make sure you are super clear on how to deliver service in such a way that keeps people coming back for more and that the clients are being directed to the team members with intention, not just by default.

Let’s start by looking at your role with new clients.

Okay, let’s just say you are in a position where you are needing new clients and it’s time to flex those marketing muscles to get them through the door. If you would like new clients ** BUT** you want to place them in your team’s hands, are they up to scratch to give them a phenomenal service and retain them? If you’re wanting to set your intention to close your books or reduce your client/time on the floor, what boundaries are you thinking of putting in place to make this happen?

YES! There is more to this then just putting an offer out there, especially if YOU are already busy.

So! If there were absolutely no limits, no judgments and no consequences, would you personally close your books to new clients? Do YOU really need to grow your own client base?

It’s not a trick question, and I think so many people assume a coach is going to force you off the floor to work on the business. Yes, that is one option, but so many of my coaching client LOVE having a balance of both.

Let’s look at some options

**Option A**

Throw yourself into growing your biz:

- 0 new clients in your book

- 6-8 hours growth related actions

- Requires time/resources/potential out-sourcing/skill development

- Revenue = The sky is the limit

**Option B**

Throw yourself into looking after new clients:

- 4 new clients in your book pw

- 6+ hours of work on the floor

- Requires exceptional consultation/service/quality

- Revenue = $600+ depending on services + potential future revenue if retained

All too often I see salon owners not truly appreciate the value of their time. If you personally have gaps in your appointment book and you want to grow how many clients you look after, option B is great for you!

However, most salon owners, if they are really honest with themselves, want to opt for option A. If you really want to flex that business growth muscle, more often than not the return on investment of your time greatly outweighs you spending hours looking after new clients.

There is a phenomenon which I have experienced firsthand, when I look after new clients, they leave hungry for more, a complete raving fan, spending a truckload of money and telling all their friends about how amazing the service was. BUT! (And a big but), I didn’t want to grow my client base, and I had a team that could not deliver the service that I did.

I needed to make a shift in my mindset and also a shift in where I spent my time in the business. I also have to shift my belief that my team (with training) could deliver the same level of service as I could

The sooner I realised that I could impact the lives of more people by showing my team how I delivered that exceptional client experience, the faster and more sustainably my business grew.

So, this begs the question, what do you REALLY want?

Whatever your decision is; set your intentions, create a plan and execute like you never have before. But promise me this! You dive deep into your new client stats and grow with purpose.

Follow Jay and his coaching team on Instagram at @yourgrowthcoaches

Jay Chapman

Empower Your Career!

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.

What is the Skin Success Community?

It is your trusted space to:

Access monthly expert-led education sessions on skin science, ingredients, disorders & treatments

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

How Healthy is Your Beauty Business?

By Cait Muir

Where did this year go? Honestly! We’re already well and truly into this financial year, which for us at Iconic Coaching, means it’s the perfect time for our clients to step back and take a proper look at how their beauty businesses are really performing. I know how easy it is to get caught up in the daily grind of back-to-back treatments, but seriously, taking time for this review could be the difference between surviving and thriving in 2026.

Your Financial Year Business Check Up

One. Time To Face Your Financial Reality

Let’s start with the numbers. When was the last time you properly reviewed your bank statements and financial reports? I’m not talking about a quick glance to see if there’s money in the account. I mean really diving deep into your costs and expenses. Cancel those subscriptions you’re not using, renegotiate supplier contracts, and get a clear picture of your cash flow. Compare your actual profit to the budgets and goals you set at the start of the financial year. If you’re off track, now’s the time to course correct before it all gets out of hand!

Two. Hate to Break It To Ya, But Your Pricing Is Probably Wrong! Your costs have undoubtedly changed over the past year. Product prices have increased, wages are rising, and overheads keep climbing. But when did you last adjust your pricing to reflect this? Take time to analyse your service menu. Are all your treatments still relevant and in demand? More importantly, is every single service priced to make a profit? Check that your timing allocations are accurate and that you’re factoring in all product and labour costs correctly. Under-pricing is one of the biggest mistakes I see in our industry, and it’s a disease that plagues a LOT of clinic owners!

Three. Stock: The Silent Profit Killer I know stocktaking is about as exciting as watching paint dry, but it’s essential. Are you sitting on hundreds or even thousands worth of products

that aren’t moving? Can you return slow sellers to suppliers or run promotions to shift them? Conversely, are you constantly running out of popular items and losing sales? Also, don’t forget to update your point-of-sale system to reflect current stock levels and seasonal trends.

Four. Are Your Team Performers? Or Passengers?

For those with staff (and solo operators, apply this to yourself), it’s time to honestly assess every therapist’s performance metrics. Are team members meeting their targets? Is unforeseen leave becoming an issue? Look at productivity levels, client retention rates per therapist, rebooking rate, average ticket value, aftercare sales, client numbers, treatments, upgrades – all of it! These metrics tell a story about engagement and training needs.

Five. Know Your Clients Inside Out

Who exactly is walking through your door? Has your demographic shifted? Understanding your client base is crucial for growth. Analyse booking patterns: are clients returning regularly, or are you constantly chasing new ones? If regular clients have dropped off, why? And where are new clients finding you? This information should drive your marketing decisions, while simultaneously exposing what is and isn’t working with respect to your marketing and acquisition strategies.

Six. Is Your Salon Space Past Its Expiration Date?

Take a critical look around your premises. Does your decor scream “stuck in 1995” (and not in a good way!), or does it reflect current

Seven. Marketing That Actually Works

How much are you spending on social media ads and marketing without tracking results? Getting likes and comments feels great, but if they’re not converting to bookings, you’re wasting money. Implement proper tracking systems to measure your return on investment. Know which marketing channels bring in actual paying clients, not just social media fans.

Eight. The Boring Stuff That Can Bankrupt You

The Fair Work and beauty industry regulations change frequently. When did you last review your policies and procedures? Are employment contracts up to date? Are you paying correct award rates and allowances? Non-compliance can result in effed up fines that could cripple your business. If you’re getting more late cancellations, perhaps it’s time to review your booking and cancellation policies too. Also check in with your accountant if any changes need to be made with business structure, tax savings, and allll the boring but imperative things that we need to run a great beauty biz.

Nine. Debt: The Dream Killer

Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: debt. Whether it’s ATO payment plans, equipment finance, or credit cards, having a clear strategy to reduce debt is essential. Living in constant financial stress affects every aspect of your business and life. Create a realistic plan to tackle debt systematically.

Ten. Goals + Action = WINNING!

What does 2026 success look like? Not just “make more money” but real, specific, measurable goals. For your business, your team, your family, yourself. Without clear targets, you’re just hoping things will magically improve. Spoiler alert: they won’t.

To finish this one off… stop procrastinating and start progressing! Bookmark this article. Print it out. Stick it where you’ll see it. Because I know how this goes – you’ll read it, feel motivated for five minutes, then go back to the daily grind and forget everything.

The beauty industry is brutal right now. Clients are pickier, competition is fierce, and costs keep rising. But the businesses that thrive are the ones that face reality, make tough decisions, and actually implement changes.

So, what’s it going to be? Another year of struggling and stressing, or the year you finally get your shit together? The choice is yours, but trust me, your future self will thank you for doing this work now.

Remember: You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to start. Pick one area, fix it, then move on to the next. Let’s make 2026 your most seamless one yet!

Cait Muir XO Iconic Coaching

PS – My books are open to new group and 1:1 clients! More info at www.iconiccoaching.com.au

Cait Muir

The 4 Psychological Stages of Buyer Readiness, and How to Use Them in Your Social Media Content

By Angela Dickson, Social Media Mentor & Founder of Beauty Busi ness Co.

Have you ever posted your services on social media and heard… crickets?

It’s not because your work isn’t incredible. It’s likely because your content isn’t matching the psychological stage your potential client is currently in. That’s right, before someone clicks book now, they go through a psychological journey. And as beauty business owners, we need to know how to meet them at each step of that journey.

These four psychological stages of buyer readiness aren’t just marketing fluff—they’re powerful insights that can help you turn scrollers into salon clients, browsers into beauty besties, and viewers into VIPs. Let’s break them down…

Stage 1: Unaware

They don’t even know they have a problem. Right now, your potential client might be feeling “meh” about their skin, lashes, brows or confidence—but they don’t yet see the cause or how you can help.

What they’re thinking:

“I’m feeling flat but can’t put my finger on why.”

What to post:

• Educational content that highlights problems they may not know they have (e.g. “3 Signs Your Skin Barrier Is Compromised”)

• Relatable memes or quotes (soft entry into a deeper convo)

• Behind-the-scenes showing what you do and why it matters Pro Tip: Use phrases like “You may not realise…” or “Have you noticed lately…”

Stage 2: Problem Aware

They know something’s not right, but they’re not sure what to do about it. They’ve identified that their skin feels dull or they’re frustrated by constant breakouts—but they’re still gathering options. What they’re thinking:

“I want to fix this, but I don’t know where to start.”

What to post:

• Client journey stories or before/after transformations

• Reels that explain how your treatments solve common issues

• Educational carousels (e.g. “Why LED Light Therapy Helps with Hormonal Acne”)

Pro Tip: End your captions with CTA’s like: “Comment ‘CONSULT’ and I’ll send you a skin assessment link.”

Stage 3: Solution Aware

They’re looking for a solution and comparing their options. Now they’re weighing up whether to DIY it, buy a serum online, or book a professional treatment. They’re watching your stories closely…

What they’re thinking:

“I need this fixed. But who can I trust?”

What to post:

• Story polls, FAQs and “Ask Me Anything” boxes

• Price breakdowns + what’s included in packages

• Client love, testimonials and transformation timeframes

Pro Tip: Give them reasons to trust you. Show your credentials. Use client-generated content and post “day in the life of a beauty therapist” style content.

Stage 4: Ready to Buy

They just need the final nudge.

At this point, they’re either sitting on your website, hovering over “Book Now,” or sliding into your DMs asking, “Can I book this for next week?” What they’re thinking:

“I’m pretty sure I want this. Just need a reason to do it now.”

What to post:

• Scarcity posts (“Only 2 appointments left this week!”)

• Time-sensitive promotions (“Book by Friday and get a free LED add-on”)

• Strong CTA reels with confidence-boosting messaging

Pro Tip: Make your booking link EASY to find and include why now is the time. Create urgency without the pressure. Example: “This season is all about recharging. This treatment helps you feel fresher and more confident from the inside out. Book now—limited spots available

So, What Stage Are You Speaking To?

Many beauty business owners make the mistake of only speaking to the ready-to-buy clients. But the truth is—most people aren’t there yet. By crafting content that speaks to all four stages, you create a nurturing path that guides potential clients from “hmm, maybe” to “OMG, yes!” Remember: Sales don’t happen from one post. They happen from one connection at a time.

Final Thought from Angela:

Social media is not just a highlight reel—it’s a trust-building, connectiongrowing, client-converting machine when done with purpose and psychology in mind.

The more you understand what your audience needs at each stage, the more confidently you’ll show up—and the more bookings you’ll generate. Let’s keep building beauty businesses on purpose, with strategy that feels good.

Angela Dickson

Social Media Mentor & Founder of Beauty Business Co. Helping beauty business owners create confident content that converts. @beautybusinessco_

What Branding Photography

Women

By Keira Maloney

showed me about

in Beauty (and nope, it’s not what you think)

It wasn’t some grand moment. No lightning bolt of insight. Just a quiet noticing, after maybe my first ten or twenty beauty shoots. Something that sat at the edge of every session and wouldn’t leave me alone.

I’d assumed I’d be stepping into these spaces to capture women who were ultra-confident, put-together, in charge, and sure, sometimes that’s what I got. More often, though? I saw something a lot more real and relatable.

They’re juggling flaming knives, and you wouldn’t know it.

The outside view is curated. Gleaming tiles, dreamy product shelves, a fancy mirror with perfect lighting, but out of frame? A cracked iPhone lighting up with a last-minute reschedule, a child at home sick, and a stock order delayed again.

They smile for the camera while mentally calculating tax, staffing, and how to stop that one team member from quitting. They’re the bookkeeper, the team lead, the fixer, the therapist, and somehow, they still manage to ask me if I want a coffee before the shoot. Unbelievable.

What they want isn’t perfection, it’s to be understood.

“I want to look like me, but on a really good day.”

I hear this almost every shoot.

Look, I get it, but deep down, what they really mean is, “I want people to see what I do and feel something about it.”

They’re not after filters, they’re after connection.

These women aren’t just building a brand; they’re creating a movement. They’re fostering trust by saying, “This is me. This is what I do, and here’s why you should book in. Sit down, and let me take care of you.”

These women? They’re bloody shapeshifters.

In any given hour, they’re artists, business owners, receptionists, coaches, best mates, emotional first responders, and, this one’s underrated, absolute tech support legends.

Even carrying all of that, they show up on shoot day with a plan, a Pinterest board, a triple-shot iced latte, and a determination to “just finally get some content sorted.”

It’s wild.

They (constantly) forget how incredible they are.

After all these shoots, it still gets me. The way they look at their gallery and say, “I didn’t realise I looked like that!”

Yes. You do.

You look focused, like someone who gives a damn, someone who I’d trust with my story, not just my skin.

I’ve had clients cry in the middle of shoots. Not from nerves but from relief because someone is finally SEEING and CELEBRATING them, not as someone behind the curtain, but as the main character.

I see you with utter admiration.

Beauty is the wrong word, or maybe just too small.

“Beauty business” sounds fluffy, doesn’t it? Especially when there’s nothing fluffy about it.

These women hold space for people’s insecurities, trauma, and transformation. They witness truly real moments, as clients share stories they haven’t told anyone else while undergoing their services.

They don’t just “make people feel good.” They help people remember who they are.

Keira Maloney

Yes, they use serums, tools, and devices, but they also use presence, humour, boundaries, and intuition, and they do it while standing for ten friggin’ hours a day.

They’re building legacies and brushing it off like it’s nothing.

Some of them started waxing friends in their kitchens. Now? They’ve got staff, booked-out calendars, product lines, and waitlists.

Despite this, they still dare to say things like, “I’m just a bit awkward in front of the camera.”

I want to shake them (in the most loving way)!

Look, I know. This article is all over the place, but these women? They’re incredible. They don’t need a personal brand shoot to “look good.” They need it to be seen for all that they have done, are doing, and will do.

Don’t wait for the perfect timing for your own shoot. Don’t wait to feel ready or lose five kilos. None of that changes the work you’re already doing.

Get in the frame. Show up for yourself the way you show up for everyone else.

That relentless drive for amazing client experiences that you’ve got?

That is the brand.

That’s the thing people are drawn to.

That’s what makes them trust you before they even walk in the door. Own it.

@the_salonphotographer

Beyond the Surface: Rethinking Skin Health in Perimenopause

and Postmenopause

By Chiza Westcarr

The aesthetics industry is uniquely positioned to serve women in midlife—yet our standard skin health protocols rarely reflect the complex hormonal shifts these clients and patients are experiencing. Every day, skin therapists, nurses, and aesthetic practitioners work with women dealing with challenges that include chronic skin dryness, hyperpigmentation concerns, an increase in lines and wrinkles and sagging skin. But are we truly addressing the root causes?

Menopause is more than the end of reproductive capacity. It is a profound biopsychosocial transition that alters skin, hair, metabolism, mood, and cardiovascular health. By 2030, over 1 billion women globally will be postmenopausal. For many, aesthetic treatments are their first point of contact for discussing visible changes linked to these hormonal shifts.

Why Menopause Impacts the Skin

Oestrogen plays a key role in skin hydration, collagen production, wound healing, fat distribution, and muscle maintenance. During perimenopause and postmenopause, oestrogen drops while folliclestimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) rise. FSH stimulates the ovaries to produce oestrogen and mature eggs, while LH triggers ovulation and supports progesterone production. As ovarian function declines, the pituitary gland releases more of these hormones in an attempt to compensate, but the feedback loop breaks down—resulting in the aforementioned elevated FSH and LH alongside declining oestrogen.

Cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) increase, contributing to systemic inflammation. Growth factors like insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) decline, affecting muscle mass and skin regeneration.

This biochemical cascade accelerates collagen loss—up to 30% within five years post-menopause—leading to visible sagging, thinning skin, and volume loss. At the same time, hormonal changes contribute to both visible and internal shifts. For the skin, this may mean loss of elasticity, hydration, and firmness. The systemic shifts, including central adiposity and low-grade inflammation, not only impact overall health but also underscore the link between skin and metabolic function during midlife.

The Hormonal Influence on Outcomes

Body identical Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and bioidentical hormones are used to address the broad physiological consequences of oestrogen deficiency that occur during menopause. Oestrogen receptors exist throughout the entire body— including the brain, skin, bones, cardiovascular system, urogenital tract, and gastrointestinal system. As oestrogen declines, multiple systems are affected, leading to a wide range of symptoms and functional changes.

From a dermatological and aesthetic standpoint, oestrogen plays a critical role in maintaining skin hydration, collagen density, elasticity, vascularity, and wound healing.

Hormonal therapies may help reverse or slow some of these changes by supporting the skin’s structural and regenerative capacity. Clinically, this means that skin may respond differently to treatments depending on a client’s hormonal status. For example, some practitioners report that neuromodulators may wear off more quickly in women with marked oestrogen deficiency, possibly due to changes in dermal thickness or muscle responsiveness—though this remains anecdotal and unconfirmed in large-scale studies.

Oestrogen-deficient skin often requires more lipid-rich support and carefully calibrated collagen stimulation. Staying informed about hormonal therapies enables practitioners to tailor treatment expectations and offer guidance while remaining within scope of practice.

Addressing Midlife Skin Needs with Targeted Support

As hormonal and systemic changes accelerate skin ageing, a more deliberate approach to topical care and clinical treatment becomes essential. Standard protocols may no longer be appropriate for menopausal skin, which often presents with increased sensitivity, compromised barrier function, and slower regeneration.

By adapting both home care routines and in-clinic treatments to meet the unique needs of this life stage, practitioners can restore resilience, improve outcomes, and empower clients through education and support.

Home Care and In-Clinic Treatment Must-Haves for Menopausal Skin

Home Care Recommendations:

A menopause-aware home care routine should focus on protecting the skin barrier, restoring hydration, and promoting collagen synthesis, with gentle, skin supportive formulations:

• Cleanser: Non-stripping creamy or oil-based formulations are best for skin that is drier and often dehydrated. These help cleanse without disrupting already fragile barrier function.

• Actives: Introduce actives slowly and with consideration for sensitivity. Low- dose retinoids, peptides, and exosomes can support skin renewal. Gentle pigment correctors, enzyme-based exfoliants, and low-percentage, suitable acid formulations may aid cell turnover, while antioxidants such as esterified vitamin C and niacinamide may help defend against oxidative stress.

• Oils and Serums: Products containing squalane, shea butter, or other nourishing emollients can boost hydration and improve suppleness. These are particularly helpful for skin experiencing increased trans epidermal water loss.

• Moisturiser: Choose lipid-rich moisturisers fortified with ceramides and essential fatty acids. These reinforce barrier function, support resilience, and provide long-lasting hydration.

• Sun Protection: A broad-spectrum SPF 30+ should be used daily, even on cloudy days. Postmenopausal skin is more vulnerable to UV-related damage, including pigmentation and collagen breakdown.

In-Clinic Treatment Options:

Clinical interventions should prioritise barrier integrity, inflammation control, and gradual stimulation of collagen production:

• Barrier Repair: Begin with restorative treatments using lipid-rich, hydrating products to recondition the skin and reduce reactivity.

• Soothing and Calming: Incorporate calming actives to reduce inflammation and support skin recovery, especially for those with a history of sensitivity or hormonal flushing.

• Gentle Exfoliation: Enzymatic exfoliants or mild acids at low concentrations help remove dull skin cells without compromising barrier function.

• Collagen Stimulation: Treatments such as microneedling, plateletrich plasma (PRP), and ultrasound-based therapies can be used conservatively to improve dermal density and elasticity.

• LED Light Therapy: Red or near-infrared LED treatments may reduce inflammation and support healing while improving overall skin tone and texture.

• Injectables: Neuromodulators and dermal fillers can be used thoughtfully to address volume loss, while remaining mindful of the increased risk of puffiness in oestrogen-deficient skin.

The Cardiometabolic Connection

While aesthetics traditionally focuses on visible changes, perimenopause also introduces deeper systemic concerns. Hormonal decline, particularly the reduction in oestrogen, contributes to a chronic low-grade inflammatory state that increases the risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, metabolic dysfunctionassociated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), and cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Research shows that inflammatory markers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), ferritin, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) are commonly elevated in postmenopausal women. These markers provide valuable insight into the body’s internal state:

Key Markers and Their Functions:

• hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein): A protein produced by the liver in response to inflammation; widely used as a clinical marker for cardiovascular risk.

• Ferritin: A marker of iron storage that can also rise during systemic inflammation, making it useful for detecting chronic inflammatory states.

• Interleukin-6 (IL-6): A cytokine involved in immune system signalling; known to increase during inflammation and metabolic dysfunction, contributing to tissue breakdown and delayed healing.

Increased central adiposity and elevated inflammatory markers are often observed in midlife women as oestrogen declines. These changes reflect shifting metabolic health and may increase cardiometabolic risk, independent of chronological ageing.

Recognising these patterns allows practitioners to take a more informed and holistic approach. Understanding the connection between hormonal transition and metabolic health enables better education, timely referral, and broader support strategies for women navigating midlife.

Clinic Considerations: Evolving Best Practice

Supporting menopausal clients requires thoughtful consultation and treatment adjustment.

A holistic consultation should include:

• Medical history: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) use, medications, cardiovascular risks

• Skin health markers: hydration, elasticity, pigmentation

• Lifestyle factors: nutrition, sleep, exercise, stress

• Psychosocial context: confidence, body image, expectations

Integrating Wellness: The Bigger Picture

Aesthetic practitioners increasingly appreciate the need for a wholeperson approach. Menopausal skin health improves when nutrition, stress management, and exercise are optimised.

Encouraging clients and patients to:

• Incorporate adequate amounts of protein, healthy fats, fibre, phytoestrogens, and water, focusing on whole foods as the foundation

• Provide alcohol replacement options as this worsens vasomotor and other menopausal symptoms

• Engage in both cardiovascular exercises, such as walking, and resistance training to support musculoskeletal, metabolic, and cardiovascular health

• Consider supplements like vitamin D, magnesium, omega-3s, and polyphenols as indicated

• Offer support around mental wellbeing and self-image by listening actively, validating client concerns, and referring to qualified professionals where needed

• Providing clients with menopause education resources—

whether leaflets in clinic or webinars online—helps normalise the conversation and builds trust.

Referral Network

Importantly, skin professionals must recognise when to refer. Building partnerships with GPs familiar with menopause care, pelvic health experts, nutritionists/naturopaths, and psychologists strengthens client and patient outcomes.

Commitment to Professional Development

To stay ahead, clinics must invest in menopause-specific training. This ensures all staff understand how hormonal changes affect skin physiology, treatment outcomes, and client needs. Ethical practice also demands we avoid over-treating vulnerable skin and remain vigilant around mental health considerations.

By embedding menopause knowledge into daily clinic protocols, the aesthetics industry can better serve this growing client base. Menopause is not a niche issue. It is a mainstream, life-stage transition that deserves evidence-based, empathetic care.

Conclusion

Skin therapists and aesthetic professionals have an opportunity to expand their impact. By moving beyond surface-level treatment and embracing a multidisciplinary, menopause-aware approach, we can help clients and patients navigate midlife changes with confidence and clarity.

Menopause is not something to fix, it’s something to understand. We all need to support the woman, not just her skin.

References

1. Abildgaard, J., et al. (2020). Increased systemic inflammation and altered distribution of T cell subsets in postmenopausal women. PLOS ONE, 15(6), e0235174.

2. Kim, O.Y., et al. (2012). Effects of aging and menopause on serum interleukin 6 levels and peripheral blood mononuclear cell cytokine production in healthy non-obese women. Age, 34, 415–425. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11357-0119244-2

3. Lephart, E. D., & Naftolin, F. (2021). Menopause and the Skin: Old Favorites and New Innovations in Cosmeceuticals for Estrogen-Deficient Skin. Dermatology and Therapy, 11(4), 1323–1338. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13555020-00468-7

4. Vandermeeren, M., et al. (2021). A role for oestrogen in skin ageing and dermal biomechanics. Experimental Gerontology, 150, 111424.https://doi. org/10.1016/j.exger.2021.111424

5. Australasian Menopause Society. (2022). Global Consensus Position Statement on Menopausal Hormone Therapy. https://www.menopause.org.au/ hp/position-statements/revised-global-consensus-statement-on-menopausalhormone-therapy

About the Author

Chiza Westcarr is a university-qualified nutritionist, skin specialist, Health Coach, and Menopause Coach, with a career dedicated to skin health, gut health, and women’s wellness. Recognised for her expertise in the connection between gut health, skin health, and menopause, Chiza is a sought-after speaker and writer, contributing to industry publications and events both nationally and internationally. In February 2025, Chiza hosted the medical aesthetics industry’s first-ever menopause symposium, Thriving Through Menopause, and founded the Menopause Skin Academy— an online community created to support clinicians seeking to expand their understanding of menopause and its impact on skin and overall health. Chiza holds international diploma qualifications (CIDESCO, ITEC Hons, CIBTAC), a Bachelor of Health Sciences (Clinical Dermal Therapies), a master’s degree in Human Nutrition, an Advanced Diploma in Nutritional Medicine, and a Graduate Certificate in Health Research Practice. She is currently undertaking a PhD focusing on cardiometabolic health in menopausal women. @chizawestcarr_

Chiza Westcarr

Negative Feedback: How to turn it into a Positive for Your Business

By Angeli Marie Shaw

No one likes receiving negative feedback. It can hit hard, especially when you’ve poured your heart, time, and talent into your work. Whether it’s a less-than-glowing review, a client who wasn’t 100% satisfied, or an unexpected social media comment, that sting can stick around far longer than it should. But here’s the truth: negative feedback doesn’t have to be a setback. In fact, when handled the right way, it can become one of your most powerful tools for growth, connection, and business elevation.

Let’s talk about how to shift your mindset and use criticism not as a reason to crumble, but as an opportunity to rise!

Don’t Take It Personally (Even When It Feels Personal)

This is easier said than done, especially in an industry where what we do is so deeply personal. Our work is a blend of education, intuition, skill, and connection. So, when someone’s unhappy, it can feel like a rejection of us. But here’s a gentle reminder: negative feedback is rarely about your worth. More often, it’s about unmet expectations, miscommunication, or something completely unrelated that the client is projecting onto the experience.

So, take a breath. Pause before you react. Give yourself a moment to shift from emotion to logic. Ask yourself “Is there something I can learn from this? Or is this simply a reflection of where someone else is at?” That shift alone can change everything.

Listen With Openness, Not Ego

If the feedback comes from a genuine place, it deserves your attention. Listening with openness doesn’t mean you agree with everything said, but it means you’re willing to reflect without immediately getting defensive. Ask clarifying questions if needed. Stay calm, even if your inner voice is screaming. The person in front of you (or behind the keyboard) may just need to feel heard. You don’t have to explain everything away or justify every decision. Sometimes a simple, heartfelt response like “Thank you for your honesty. I really appreciate the chance to reflect and improve” can de-escalate tension and show true professionalism.

Find

the Gold in the Grit

Every piece of feedback, especially the ones that make you feel uncomfortable, holds insight. Maybe your consultation process needs tweaking. Maybe your booking system is a bit clunky. Maybe the tone of your confirmation messages could use some warmth. Instead of brushing it off or spiraling into self-doubt, use it as data. Journal about it. Bring it up in your team meetings. Look for patterns. When you start to see feedback as information, not criticism, you empower yourself to lead and grow with intention. Even one small improvement made from feedback can prevent future misunderstandings and help you uplevel your entire client experience.

Don’t Let One Comment Erase All Your Wins

Negative feedback has a sneaky way of becoming louder in our minds than the dozens of positive ones. It’s a natural bias. We’re wired to spot threats and protect ourselves. But just because one person had a less than ideal experience, doesn’t mean you’re failing. Look at the whole picture. All the return clients. The glowing reviews. The referrals. The transformations. Try keeping a “praise folder”, digital or physical, where you store screenshots, thank you messages and rave reviews. On tough days, come back to it. Remind yourself of the impact you’ve already made. One piece of feedback doesn’t define you. It’s just a moment. A steppingstone.

Show Professionalism and Class

How you handle negative feedback says more about your brand than the feedback itself. A calm, professional, and graceful response builds trust not only with the person who gave it, but with anyone else watching. If it’s a public review or comment, resist the urge to “bite back.” Stay grounded. Be polite. Be firm if needed, but always respectful. Something like “I’m really sorry to hear you felt this way. This certainly wasn’t the experience we aim to deliver. I’d love the opportunity to discuss this further and see how we can make it right” goes a long way. People don’t just watch what you do, they watch how you handle things. Let your character speak volumes.

Protect Your Energy—But Stay Accountable

Some feedback crosses the line into bullying, aggression, or personal attacks. In those cases, it’s absolutely okay to protect your boundaries.

You do not have to engage with abusive behavior. But if the feedback is respectful, even if it stings a bit, it’s part of being in business. Growth comes with accountability. We don’t need to be perfect, but we do need to be honest and willing to evolve. Remember that true leaders don’t avoid hard conversations, they rise to them.

Let me just say, if no one has told you lately, you’re doing an incredible job! What you’re doing takes skill, passion, resilience and heart. Receiving feedback, especially when it’s not glowing, is never easy. But if you choose to respond with grace, self-awareness and curiosity, you’ll grow stronger! So, hold your head high, reflect with honesty, and remember; feedback doesn’t mean failure! It means you’re still in the game. And you’re growing!

Angeli xxoo

And guess what beauty? My brand has had a glow up! Visit www.angelishawmentoring. com.au or follow me on socials @angelishawmentoring to connect and find out more.

Angeli Marie Shaw

Haircare. Goddess-Level Protection.

Introducing BIOPROTECTION™ — the future of hair maintenance. Powered by our proprietary molecule, a dual-action blend of Micropeptides and Macropeptides, BioTech Blowout™ goes beyond the surface level of hair to protect, hydrate, and strengthen hair from the inside out.

See stronger, shinier, healthier hair with every blowout. Heat defense, volume-boosting, frizz control, and long-lasting style. All in one lightweight formula.

Why Stylists Love It

Simple to use. Powerful to experience. BioTech Blowout™ fits seamlessly into your service routine, providing both treatment and styling benefits, and replacing the need for multiple products.

No mixing. No wait time. No extra steps. Simply apply to damp hair before styling. BioTech Blowout™ gets to work instantly, whether you’re blow-drying or air-drying.

Protection your clients will feel - and see.

One product. Every client. Every appointment. From natural to color-treated to textured hair, this treatment mask strengthens and shields every strand, no matter the type.

BioTech Blowout™ defends against heat, pollution, and frizz while enhancing style memory and curl retention. Hair stays smoother, longer.

High-Impact, low-effort add-on.

Use as an add-on service to boost shine, strength, and your bottom line. Bundle it with retail for at-home maintenance and an easy upsell.

Mocha Beauty Year 18 Issue 4

A LASH LEGACY

EDITOR’S

GUEST EDITOR’S LETTER

You’re Not Bad at Marketing Your Words Aren’t Working.

Reframing Skin Tech from the Palm of Your Hand

The Founder Reminding us that Burnt Out can have a Comeback Story!

how exo booster works

Software forsalonevery owner

Rethinking Skin Rejuvenation:

Why Fibroblast Is the Future — and How to Master It the Right Way

A Lash Legacy: The Story of

Zoe and Otto Mitter.

The Power Couple Behind Elleebana’s Global Rise.

How It All Began

A Partnership That Redefined Possibility

Global Impact, Local Roots

Looking Ahead

LIQUID HYBRID DYE

Nurturing Confidence, Culture and Care: Inside The Beauty Base

How to Thrive as a Regional Beauty Entrepreneur.

The Reality of Regional Isolation

Power of Metropolitan Mentorship

Awards as Gateways for Growth

Community Engagement as Business Strategy

Leveraging Local Media for Maximum Impact

Creating Memorable Client Experiences

Securing Exclusive Regional Partnerships

Mental Health and Professional Connection

Embracing Regional Advantage

Stretch Marks vs Scars: Why

They’re Not the Same, And How to Tattoo Them Safely.

Not All Skin Trauma Is the Same

The Integrity of the Skin Always Comes First

Refining Texture First: Why It Changes Everything

Introducing Pigment: Tone it Down, Float it In

Ink Doesn’t Change — But Your Skin Might

Titanium vs Melanin: Understanding Optical Interference

What This Means in Practice

Top Assessment Questions Before Planning Stretch Mark Tattooing

Contraindications — When to Pause or Not Proceed

What Clinics Need To Know: Botox and Antibiotics

Some Antibiotics Can Affect Botox

Importance of Pre-Treatment Assessments

Specific Antibiotics That May Interact

Can Antibiotics Reduce Botox’s Effectiveness?

The New Era of Skin Communication and Regeneration.

What Are Exosomes and Why Do They Matter?

The Skin Rejuvenation Benefits of Exosomes

Where Are Exosomes Sourced From?

Final Thoughts

When Skin Isn’t

Responding, Look Here First !

Barrier Dysfunction Isn’t Always Obvious

Really Breaking The Barrier

Results Start With Repair

The Sultana Vs Grape Analogy Every Therapist Needs

Bringing Lifestyle Into The Skin Conversation

The Real Work Isn’t Always Flashy

Rethinking RF Microneedling for Rosacea and Melasma

When Skin Breaks Out on the Fertility Journey : Holding Space as a Skin Therapist

Exhausted, Wired, Or Just Off? Your Circadian Rhythm Might Be the Problem.

Thinking of Buying New Equipment for Your Skin Clinic? Here’s

Top Devices Skin Clinics Are Buying Today

Why Are Clinics Buying These Devices?

Before You Buy: 7 Essential Questions to Ask

What You Need to Know!

Introducing The Skinformé Academy .

The Business of Beauty: How to Build a Thriving Career as a Freelance Makeup Artist

Know Your Worth (and Stick to It!)

The Long Game: Longevity in Makeup

BEAUTY shop

THE

YUME

The

RefectoCil®

Experience the

Tech That Transforms: How Phorest Software Supports Skin Clinics Behind the Scenes

E’AESTHETICS SKIN

Meet Your Growth Partner Than Just Software