Deka’s next-generation CO2 laser technology that provides revolutionary precision in micro-ablative procedures.
Winner of the 2024 AMWC Aesthetic Medicine
Awards for the Best Laser, Lights and Energy-Based Device, Tetra PRO is a cutting-edge laser system that provides unparalleled accuracy and innovation.
“The SmartTrack technology in the Deka Tetra Pro helps me to control the thermal load delivered to the skin and therefore reduce the likelihood of PIH and/ or persistent erythema and at the same time improve treatment outcomes”. – Dr Davin Lim
For more information, call 1300 309 233 or email info@hightechmedical.com.au www.hightechmedical.com.au
NEW AWARD-WINNING TETRA PRO CO2 LASER BY DEKA
FEATURES
COOLPEEL™
The globally recognised ten-minute, almost no downtime, often no anaesthetic skin resurfacing treatment is now even faster and more convenient thanks to MOVEO Mode.
PSD TECHNOLOGY
Deka’s proprietary Pulse Shape Design (PSD) technology means Tetra PRO can deliver powerful performance levels never achieved before in dermatological applications.
SMARTSTACK FUNCTION
Makes it possible to deliver laser energy in a single pulse or in several consecutive pulses (1-5) over the same place (DOT) to ensure maximum efficacy, fast recovery time and enhanced patient comfort.
SPEED AND PRECISION
With increased power and a larger scanner area, Tetra PRO can deliver faster treatments, significantly reducing treatment duration while providing practitioners with optimal versatility and precision.
WHY INVEST IN TETRA PRO
• CoolPeel™ is now even faster and more convenient with MOVEO mode
• Four pulse modes of the exclusive PSD® technology allows for the tailoring of treatment results and downtime.
• 30% faster treatment thanks to increased power and a larger scanner area (20x20 mm)
• DOT Therapy
• Blepharoplasty
• Dermatological surgery
• Fast recovery time, enhanced patient comfort and safety with SmartStack and SmartTrack functions
Equipment Specialist VIC | SA jc@hightechmedical.com.au 0473 848 628
MARK DURKIN
Equipment Specialist QLD | WA md@hightechmedical.com.au 0477 876 203
Skin health for your patients, profitability for your business.
THE SMARTEST DEVICE in SKIN HEALTH
Treatment with Hydrafacial uses patented vortex fusion technology to cleanse, extract and hydrate skin, plus extensive personalisation options through boosters. In partnership with the best brands in aesthetics, Hydrafacial offers a range of booster options to target specific skin concerns and increase upgrade treatment opportunities.
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Contact the local team now. https://www.hydrafacial.com.au/professional/ 1300 309 233 (Australia) or 0800 888 135 (NZ) info@hydrafacial.com.au
WOMEN LEADING WOMEN:
The Culture of Success at Juv’ae
International Women’s Day is a time to recognise the power of women supporting women, particularly
in business. At Juv’ae, this philosophy is embedded deep in the company’s culture. Led by three female directors, the organisation has created more than just a professional network – it has built a community where women are mentored, nurtured and empowered to succeed in the cosmetics industry.
Women Leading the future of Aesthetic Medicine
Juv’ae was created by women, for women, with the vision of empowering others to thrive. What began as a shared dream between two passionate women, building a small cosmetics business from the ground up, has evolved into a nationwide movement. Today Juv’ae supports over 400 nurses, helping them achieve financial independence and professional success. Their nurses are not just injectors – they are clinic owners, educators and innovators playing their part in shaping the future of cosmetic medicine, proving that success in aesthetics isn’t just about skill – it’s about vision, resilience, and the right support system.
There is no force more powerful than a woman determined to rise and elevate her family
Juv’ae take great pride in fostering the growth and development of every nurse who enrols in their training program. As a boutique organisation, they go beyond mere instruction – cultivating a legacy of excellence. Every nurse is treated as an individual, with a personalised approach that ensures they feel seen, heard and valued. Juv’ae takes immense pride in celebrating their growth, achievements and ongoing success in the industry.
What sets Juv’ae apart?
Juv’ae has mapped out a clear framework for success. Success is never left to chance – nurses are provided with clear benchmarks in key areas such as clinical skills, client acquisition, client retention, client satisfation, revenue targets and treatment planning. Their hand is held every step of the way, with a strong focus on business profitability and sustainability.
Juv’ae Directors: Left to right - Nicole, Jacinta & Melissa
Juv’ae Directors & Founders: Left to right - Nicole & Melissa
Empowering Women to succeed in the Cosmetic Industry
International Women’s Day is a time when many organisations take the opportunity to reflect on their commitment to equality and empowerment. For Juv’ae, this day is a reminder of the company’s core philosophy—empowering women as they venture into and navigate the world of cosmetic aesthetics. Through its training opportunities, and supportive leadership, Juv’ae exemplifies how companies in this industry can foster a culture of growth and inclusion, enabling women to take full control of their lives and destinies.
In addition to providing clinical and business training, the management team at Juv’ae also recognise the importance of helping female nurses develop a healthy and resilient mindset in sustaining a successful career. Juv’ae’s Annual Conference, held at the Langham, Gold Coast on the 15th to 17th June, goes way beyond technical skillbuilding. This year’s event is centred on promoting a mindset of awareness, presence, and balance, acknowledging that true success in a fastpaced industry requires more than just clinical knowledge. Juv’ae aims to equip nurses with the tools they need to maintain confidence and clarity in a rapidly changing environment.
A Supportive Leadership Culture
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Juv’ae’s approach is pivotal in fostering a culture of support for nurses, especially those working independently in the field. In the cosmetic industry, where many nurses operate solo, access to mentorship, structured support, and professional connection is vital in developing skills.
The impact of this approach is reflected in the experiences of those within the Juv’ae network:
“Juv’ae is more than just a company— it’s a community that truly cares. The support, training, and mentorship have been instrumental in my success.”
— Nicolette Brown
“The Business Mastermind course provided invaluable insights that transformed the way I approach my business. The accountability and support made a lasting difference.”
— Next Aesthetics
“The leadership at Juv’ae fosters a culture of growth and success. The structured programs, ongoing education, and strong network make all the difference.”
— Monica Cunneen
By offering a comprehensive support system, Juv’ae plays a vital role in shaping the careers of female nurses, helping them thrive both professionally and personally.
Unlock 3 months of free scripting when you join Juv’ae! Scan the code:
Juv’ae Clinical Trainers
Juv’ae nurses at Advanced Cadaver Workshop
COVER STORIES
46 Laseraid: Redefining Device Flexibility
60 Nurses Evolve: Skin Treatments on the Rise
62 100 tips to thrive in 2025
TRIED+TESTED
12 Steph and Kym try the latest aesthetic and spa treatments
EVENTS
20 Events Calendar
The must attend events for 2025
22 ASCD
Emerging trends and advanced techniques make it essential for practitioners
BUSINESS
30 New Openings New spas and clinics to know about
32 Derrimut Gym Expands Into Wellness Why this major gym chain has now tapped into the recovery space
40 Ten Mistakes To Avoid In Your Finances Former spa owner turned accountant shares her insights
42 How To Scale Your Online Store Tips to enhance your revenue streams
44 2025 Trend Forecast Trends across spa, aesthetics and medicine
AESTHETICS
28 Medik8’s Latest Peptide Innovation We chat to Medik8’s Chief Product Officer and Founder, Daniel Issacs
48 Leading With Inclusivity, Individuality And Innovation How Skin x Lulu prioritises empowerment and comfort
On the cover
52 From Nurse To Formulator
Elly Seymour tells us about her breakout brand cutting through the noise
94 The Connection Between Teeth and Facial Structure
Dr Nelson Bayer of Valley Dental Explains
SPA HOTSPOT
70 About Time, Torquay WELLNESS
78 Refining Wellness From finance to shaping the future of Integrated Health TECHNOLOGY
80 A Soprano Summer With Alma Why year-round treatments are now possible
82 Innovations, Milestones, and Bold Rebranding How Aerolase is reshaping the future
88 The Versatility of Tetra PRO CO 2 From Rejuvenation to Scar Revision with Dr Davin Lim, of Cutis Clinic.
MEDI
90 Vaginal Health in the Hot Seat What the TGA’s new rules mean for you
COSMETICS
96 Self Care Rituals Your new habit or best seller?
Meet Laseraid, the innovative subscription service offering access to state-of-the-art aesthetic devices without the upfront cost. Since its founding in 2007, Laseraid has become a trusted leader in advanced aesthetic solutions, supporting independent clinics and major corporate chains across Australia. With a mission to empower clinics and practitioners, Laseraid provides cutting-edge technology, comprehensive resources, and unparalleled support to help deliver exceptional client outcomes. To learn more about our subscription plans, servicing, and inclusions, contact our expert team today. laseraid.com.au
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SPA+CLINIC
published by
BHA MEDIA Pty Ltd
A division of The Intermedia Group 41 Bridge Rd, Glebe NSW 2037 www.bhamedia.com.au
Environmental Statement: The Intermedia Group takes its Corporate and Social Responsibilities seriously and is committed to reducing its impact on the environment. We continuously strive to improve our environmental performance and to initiate additional CSR based projects and activities. As part of our company policy we ensure that the products and services used in the manufacture of this magazine are sourced from environmentally responsible suppliers. This magazine has been printed on paper produced from sustainably sourced wood and pulp fibre and is accredited under PEFC chain of custody. PEFC certified wood and paper products come from environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial and economically viable management of forests. The wrapping used in the delivery process of this magazine is 100% recyclable.
Editor’s Letter
Welcome to our first issue for 2025, our 100th issue and my first ever issue.
In many ways, this feels like a full-circle moment—having read SPA+CLINIC articles and magazines over the years and connected with the team at conferences, it’s truly rewarding to have their support in bringing my vision for the magazine to life.
Over the 15 years I’ve been in industry, I’ve seen how much we’ve all grown, facing industry challenges head on and always levelling up —whether by expanding our skillsets, adapting to new rules and regulations, or introducing innovative products and services to market. It’s this resilience and evolution that makes me so passionate about the industry.
My goal with this issue is to provide you with actionable insights that support you not only as a business owner but also as a practitioner striving to excel in your niche, carve your own path, or perhaps one day become a business owner or mentor yourself.
This milestone issue celebrates 100 editions of SPA+CLINIC, and to mark the occasion, we’ve included 100 tips for thriving in 2025. Spanning ten business categories, these insights offer professionals insider knowledge from industry icons.
Embodying that trailblazing spirit, we’ve featured LaserAid on the cover, a brand empowering practitioners with flexible device solutions and innovative support to excel in an ever-evolving industry. Get to know the team behind the brand with our in-depth Q&A featuring insights from their industry leaders.
Facials remain one of my favourite treatments, but as a former practitioner, I often find it hard to switch off and stop analysing the therapist’s techniques and simply enjoy the experience. That was not the case when I visited La Praire’s new David Jones Bourke street mall spa. I was lucky enough to be treated by the lovely Silvana whos’ been with La Praire for over 18 years.
My treatment began with an unusual yet unforgettable visualisation ritual that included a sensory journey of a lake. The essential oil blend perfectly captured the serene essence of sitting peacefully by the edge of a tranquil lake. The treatment then progressed in an unusual order which forced me to relax (in the best way possible) beginning with a hypnotic eye massage before moving on to other components of the treatment. The standout for me was the massage along the jawline where I hold a lot of tension and the complex layering throughout the treatment. This is part of La Prairie’s approach to skincare, using a pre-serum to prepare the skin for the treatments that follow. It enhances hydration, brightening, and firming, thanks to key ingredients like Swiss golden caviar extract, Swiss golden caviar water, and the exclusive cellular complex.
My skin felt exactly as the name promised—hydrated, luminous and incredibly smooth. I’m thrilled with the results and currently testing some products from their caviar range! If you’re seeking a treatment that nourishes both your skin and soul, I highly recommend indulging with La Praire. LAPRAIRE.COM/EN-AU/
Don’t forget your clients’ concerns about “tuck shop arms”! Recently noticing skin laxity on the backs of my arms, I was invited to experience the new-generation Ultraformer MPT treatment at Skin By Bliss, owned by the highly respected Jodie in Randwick. With over three decades of industry experience, Jodie is a true leader in her field and an absolute delight. She explained that the Ultraformer MPT is nearly three times faster than its predecessor and significantly less painful.
Jodie assessed me as the perfect candidate for a HIFU upper arm lift—a non-surgical solution for tightening and toning loose, sagging skin anywhere on the body. I underwent two Ultraformer MPT sessions, spaced six weeks apart, targeting the backs of my arms. The treatment was virtually painless, comfortable, and efficient, delivering outstanding results.
Jodie’s expertise and attention to detail stood out. She took the time to explain every step of the process, ensuring the treatment was personalised to address my specific concerns. This level of customisation is essential for achieving optimal outcomes.
The Ultraformer MPT’s advanced technology dramatically improved the tone and texture of my skin, with noticeable results after just two sessions. For clinic owners, this cutting-edge technology is an excellent opportunity to enhance your treatment menu, offering clients visible improvements with minimal downtime and a comfortable experience.
Stephanie McLean,
Managing editor tried:
Exion Fractional RF at Unveil Aesthetics
I’m all about maximising skin results with minimal downtime, which is why I was so excited to try BTL’s new Exion Fractional RF treatment at Unveil Aesthetics. Before starting the treatment, my lovely practitioner Vanessa gave me a thorough overview of the process so I knew exactly what to expect. After completing consent, she cleansed my skin and took me to have my before-and-after photos taken. My main concerns for this treatment were my eye area, pore size, and premature ageing—which I’m doing my best to avoid.
To address my concerns, she performed the Exion Rejuvenate Plus treatment—a layered approach that combines RF and ultrasound to boost hyaluronic acid levels and deliver subtle skin tightening with fractional RF.
The ultrasound component is deeply relaxing, as the handpiece gently glides across the skin while delivering soothing ultrasound and radiofrequency heat around the eyes. She then worked across my forehead, gently treating a large blind pimple that annoyingly popped up that week.
She then moved on to the fractional RF which doesn’t require any numbing and is easily tolerated. Thanks to their one-pass technology, the procedure is relatively quick. The sensation feels like a mild zap with a brief heat sensation that fades almost instantly. Post treatment the skin is a little flushed and warm to touch but upon waking up the next day, the redness had completely dissipated. Over the next three days my skin was a little dry but nothing unbearable. By Saturday my skin was smooth and bright. BTLAESTHETICS.COM.AU
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Redefining the wellness experience, Gurner Group presents the SAINT private wellness club.
Facts & Figures
Name: SAINT PRIVATE SOCIAL CLUB
Owner: GURNER WELLNESS GROUP
Location: ST KILDA, VIC
Size: 1172sqm
Number of rooms: 5 TREATMENT ROOMS AND 5 DISTINCT STUDIOS
SNumber of staff: CONFIDENTIAL
Interior Inspiration: MULTI-SENSORY, IMMERSIVE, 6-STAR HOTEL INSPIRED
tepping into SAINT feels like entering another world—and that’s precisely the intention, according to Simon Brugaletta, Interior Design Director at Gurner Group.
In stark contrast to Saint Haven’s serene and calming ambiance, SAINT energises members upon arrival with its dynamic threedimensional cube. Fully mirrored and digitally immersive, this sensory cube invites members to set their intention before entering the space. They can choose recovery, represented by a serene, tranquil rainforest, or high performance, which transforms the cube into a dramatic display of stormy skies and lightning. This transformative sensory journey embodies the seamless, end-to-end experience that defines SAINT.
The space then unfolds into a stunning Gatsby-style interior, rumoured to be inspired by founder Tim Gurner’s appreciation for the timeless elegance of the era. The café and cocktail bar featuring a striking black caviar stone with white veining, a design element that echoes the lightning motif experienced upon entering the cube. The bar space is adorned with textured gold and bronze paint, illuminated to form a stunning focal point. This radiant design is complemented by elegant black and white marble flooring, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere.
The interplay of lighting throughout the space amplifies its energy, with mirrored ceilings and walls enhancing its dynamic effect. The lighting shifts and pulses in harmony with the music, creating a vibrant atmosphere that evolves throughout the day. Following a circadian rhythm, the lighting reflects the sun’s natural progression—lighter, cooler tones in the morning transition to fuller, more dynamic hues during peak daytime, eventually warming and intensifying in the early afternoon and evening to set the perfect mood.
The white, relaxation-focused level is thoughtfully designed with longevity in mind. Featuring a carefully curated café menu by nutrition
mentor Luke Hines and Executive Chef Chad Lynch, SAINT offers a delicious yet nutrient-dense whole foods menu, crafted to support long-term, sustainable health. Based on your recovery needs, you can step into the recovery zone—a quiet and serene space offering advanced therapies such as Normatec compression boots, red light therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen chambers for optimal rejuvenation.
Nestled near the freestanding gym is the dynamic “fire and ice” zone, a breathtaking space where a glowing moon rises above a 10-meter cold plunge pool surrounded by flickering candles. Adjacent to this serene centrepiece are two state-of-the-art infrared saunas and a traditional Finnish sauna, offering the perfect harmony of heat and cold for ultimate renewal.
Additionally, members gain access to a thoughtfully curated selection of premium products designed to elevate their wellness journey. These include PUSH Creatine Gummies to optimise workout performance, Sodii Hydration Salts for superior hydration and electrolyte balance, and Cymbiotika Liposomal Charcoal to aid in advanced detoxification. Emphasising recovery, Bare Blends Whey Protein Isolate is also available to enhance post-workout restoration.
Members can further extend their wellness experience at home with the SAINT HAVEN Cookbook, which brings the expertise of Saint Haven’s distinguished team into their kitchens, offering a carefully crafted collection of recipes to support health and well-being.
This artful fusion of health and wellness redefines the increasingly outdated concept of a traditional gym, offering a fresh perspective that resonates with a younger generation.
Simone reflects, “Every element of SAINT has been thoughtfully designed to radiate a powerful energy, mirroring the club’s services and enhancing the performance of our members. We’re incredibly proud to deliver SAINT—crafted entirely within the capabilities of Gurner’s Design House.” And it’s clear—they’ve absolutely nailed it.
2025 Events Calendar
Your key learning and inspiration dates!
Cosmedicon
When: March 6 – 8, 2025
Where: InterContinental Hotel Double Bay, Sydney
Mark your calendars for COSMEDICON 2025, returning to Sydney’s luxurious Intercontinental Hotel, Double Bay from March 6–8. This premier boutique conference promises to showcase advancements in aesthetic medicine. Delegates will experience a blend of scientific insight and practical education through cutting-edge scientific presentations, live demonstrations, and hands-on workshops. Renowned experts will share their insights on facial rejuvenation techniques, the latest skincare advancements, body contouring, and more. The trade exhibition will spotlight the current innovations, offering attendees direct access to the latest products and technologies. Beyond the sessions, COSMEDICON fosters invaluable networking opportunities, including glamorous social events like the ‘Barbie’ Gala Dinner. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your expertise and connect with the global aesthetic community.
COSMEDICON.COM.AU
ASCD Symposium
When: March 21 – 23, 2025
Where: Crown Conference Centre, Melbourne
The 2025 ASCD Symposium, held from 21-23 March at Crown Conference Centre Melbourne, brings together industry experts, researchers and practitioners to offer insights into emerging trends and advanced cosmetic and procedural techniques. The conference welcomes renowned international speakers to the stage to lead conversations and handson workshops covering the latest on lasers, injectables, Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies. Attendees will benefit from a weekend aimed to improve clinical skills, tackle complex case studies and support continuous education within the rapidly evolving field of cosmetic dermatology. Don’t miss this key event of learning and innovation for dermatology professionals.
KAILO Summit
When: May 1-2, 2025
Where: The Star Brisbane Event Centre & The Calile Hotel
In an Australian first, The KAILO Summit will bring Gwenyth Paltrow’s iconic wellness brand, goop down under. The collaborative event pipeline will showcase pioneering health experts, research and trends from the USA and Australia to Brisbane. Showcased in an interactive environment to educate and empower Australians on their wellbeing, the event will feature exclusive curated experiences from the iconic US tastemaker brand, goop including The Live Boldly Brunch with goop curated menu and panel discussion on May 2nd. KAILO.COM.AU
Cutera University Clinical Forum
When: May 2 – 4, 2025
Where: Sofitel Darling Harbour
The Cutera University Clinical Forum (CUCF) 2025 is a premier event for aesthetic professionals, bringing together industry leaders, practitioners, and innovators for a three-day event focused on advanced treatment techniques, technology integration, and practice growth strategies. Moderated by Dr. Ryan De Cruz, the event will feature live demonstrations, interactive masterclasses, and in-depth panel discussions with renowned experts across various specialties, including skin rejuvenation, body contouring, and advanced vascular and pigmentation treatments.
CUCF 2025 offers attendees a unique opportunity to enhance their clinical knowledge and build connections within the aesthetic community. CUCF.COM.AU
Non-Surgical Symposium
When: June 13 – 15, 2025
Where: Gold Coast Convention Centre
Australasia’s Premier Event for Non-Surgical Aesthetics, NSS 2025 where innovation meets expertise, excellence takes centre stage and optimism and bonhomie fill the air is back for the 15th year.
With a reimagined and reinvigorated CPD program based on the proven pillars of growth and success, expert international and national speakers, will share expertise to upskill you in anatomy, facial aesthetics, injectables, skin health, regenerative medicine, cutting edge technology of laser, energy devices and skin care. The Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons
(ASAPS) is proud to present an immersive 3-day experience of innovative content to script your success story and stand out social events to help you build lasting friendships in our industry. NONSURGICAL.ORG.AU
Cosmetic Collective by Juv’ae
When: June 15-17, 2025
Where: The Langham, Gold Coast
The 2025 Cosmetic Collective Conference by Juv’ae will take place at The Langham, Gold Coast, from June 15th-17th, centred around the theme “Mindset: Awareness, Presence & Balance.” This year’s event explores how shifting focus and embracing the right mindset can empower cosmetic nurses to achieve their goals more effectively. Featuring international and local speakers, hands-on workshops, and expert panels, the conference aims to inspire growth, foster industry connections, and promote a forward-thinking approach to cosmetic nursing and medicine. It offers a premium experience designed to elevate both personal and professional success.
Aesthetics 2025 Masterclass
When: July 26-27, 2025
torchbearers, recognised for their expertise and influence. They are thought leaders, innovators and pioneers, who are passionate about the cosmetic industry and the everchanging technology and innovation. We are excited to announce the first of our world leading experts Dr Patricia Barrera. Dr Barrera is a member of the CMAC International Expert Board (Complications in Medical Aesthetics Collaborative) established in 2020 to support clinicians worldwide in diagnosing and managing complications in medical aesthetics.
Where: The Sofitel Hotel, Sydney Say goodbye to “Cosmetic Conference Fatigue” with the A25 Injectables Masterclass—a focused, concise event led by Dr Steven Liew ,global and local experts. Dive into the “Why, How, and What” of injectables with live demonstrations on all injectables and emerging trends. This masterclass format covers patient selection, detailed assessments, step-by-step injections, and concurrent cadaver anatomy demonstrations. Gain expert tips, engage in interactive sessions, and explore controversial topics in panel discussions. With a focus on HA products, biostimulators, and bio-regenerators, this comprehensive program ensures practical knowledge to enhance your skills and achieve superior outcomes in a supportive environment. aestheticsau.com
Cosmetex
When: August 14-15, 2025
Where: Radisson Blu, Sydney Cosmetex 2025 will offer a distinctive forum celebrated for its exceptional educational content, creating an opportunity to share experiences and learn from one another. The need to stay abreast of developments in the industry and stay ahead of the hype is intensified with the increasing demand for cosmetic procedures. Our hand-selected keynote speakers are trailblazers and
When: September 2-4, 2025
Where: Howard Smith Wharves, Brisbane Aesthetic professionals, mark your calendars! From September 2-4 2025, The Fresh Life returns to where it all began…Brisbane’s iconic Howard Smith Wharves. Get ready to push the boundaries like never before with an even bigger and better edition of Australia’s aesthetic event of the year. Experience innovation, hands-on education, live keynotes, breakout sessions, workshops, and 1:1 consultations just to name a few. As well as confidence-building, and unforgettable networking opportunities, all within a relaxed environment. Taking over Brisbane’s stunning waterfront, The Fresh Life provides motivational, educational and business-minded speakers, cutting-edge training and wellness opportunities from local and international talent. Elevate your practice and redefine what’s possible. Save the date for September 2nd to 4th, 2025 and join us at The Fresh Life, a place where magic happens… THEFRESHLIFECONFERENCE.COM
SkinCon
When: September 12- 14, 2025
Where: Melbourne
SKINCON is hosted by the Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians and is a boutique event specifically for Dermal Clinicians, Dermal Therapists, Dermatology Nurses, Cosmetic Nurses, Beauty Therapists and students entering the profession. SKINCON25 is a two and half day interactive conference focusing on Skin health. The educational program has a focus on highlighting advancements in research as well as techniques and technologies in the evidence based management of skin. The event has ample networking opportunities to network and catch up with varied professionals within the skin health space. It’s a must attend event for 2025 with a friendly interprofessional community vibe. DERMALCLINICIAN.COM.AU
The 2025 Australasian Society of Cosmetic Dermatology Symposium
The annual Australasian Society of Cosmetic Dermatologists (ASCD) Symposium is back this 21st to 23rd of March at Crown Conference Centre Melbourne, providing a platform for innovation and collaboration among industry experts, researchers and practitioners.
With 2024’s program focusing on advancing cosmetic and procedural dermatology practices, the 2025 ASCD Symposium will welcome renowned international speakers to the stage including Dr Ofir Artzi, Dr Sonia Batra MD, Reinhard Gansel, Dr Sherrif Ibrahim MD, Prof Billur Sezgin Kizilok, Dr Jeong Seo Kim, Craig Rispin, Dr Sylwia
Lipko-Godlewska, Dr Boncheol Leo Goo, Dr Siew Tuck Wah, Dr Thomas Hitchcock. As international authorities on cosmetic procedures, these speakers will offer insights into emerging trends and advanced techniques to enhance patient care across Australasia.
Attendees will benefit from a weekend full of workshops and discussions that aim to improve clinical skills, tackle complex case studies and support continuous education within the rapidly evolving field of cosmetic dermatology. It will also unpack research breakthroughs in areas like laser treatments, skin rejuvenation and non-surgical enhancements.
For the first time, masterclasses will begin on the first day of the Symposium, diving into discussions surrounding Breaking Boundaries, where attendees will listen in on important conversations surrounding dermatologic disease with aesthetic implications and regional rejuvenation. ASCD President, Professor Greg Goodwin AM, will feature on the panel leading a conversation on facial reshaping.
The weekend then unfolds with a series of inspiring workshops and discussions, delving into the latest trends and innovations in cosmetic dermatology. Sessions will explore cutting-edge fillers and injectables, along with groundbreaking technologies like ultrasounds, dermoscopies, and the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence.
Attendees will also explore the key opportunities and challenges shaping the industry, from the rise of energy-based devices to the increasing prominence of robotics. Plus, a thought-provoking conversation will examine whether skin cancer surgery is facing new challenges in the era of advanced treatments and technologies.
Attendees will also have the chance to immerse themselves in handson, small group sessions designed to refine and elevate their skills. From an in-depth laser workshop to a specialised session on injectables, there’s something for everyone looking to master the latest techniques. Additionally, renowned business futurist and innovation expert, Craig Rispin, is leading an AI workshop sharing the cutting-edge ways artificial intelligence is reshaping the industry.
Medical, Laser and Cosmetic dermatologist and ASCD Board member, Dr Aakriti Gupta says: “The ASCD Symposium is a must-attend event for dermatologists with an interest in cosmetic dermatology, offering cutting-edge insights, expert discussions, and great networking opportunities. I’m particularly excited about the program, which introduces a dynamic new format featuring a series of masterclasses on key topics in cosmetic dermatology including acne scarring and rejuvenation by facial regions—perfect for deepening skills and staying at the forefront of the field.”
The Gala Dinner, held at the Crown Aviary, will be the social highlight of the ASCD Symposium, offering an unforgettable evening of entertainment, fine dining, and the perfect opportunity to network with colleagues from across Australia and around the world.
With an array of both local and international speakers sharing their expertise, featuring plastic surgeons, dermatologists, aesthetic practitioners, nurses and nurse practitioners, the 2025 ASCD Symposium will be one not to miss.
For more information and to register for the 2025 ASCD Symposium please visit: https://ascd.org.au/2025-ascd-symposium/.
The ASCD would like to thank the following sponsors for helping to bring the 2025 ASCD Symposium to life: Allergan Aesthetics, Galderma, Propaira, Dermocosmetica, Merz Aesthetics, Teoxane, Candela, Esthetica Academy, Sciton and Venus.
Greg Goodman
The 2025 COSMEDICON Preview
Brace yourself for an actionpacked three-day event!
Mark your calendar for COSMEDICON 2025, Australia’s premier boutique event for aesthetic medicine! Taking place from Thursday, March 6 - 8 at the luxurious InterContinental Hotel in Sydney’s Double Bay, the event features an action-packed program, including cutting-edge workshops and a dynamic two-day trade exhibition across March 7th and 8th.
A focus on practical learning
Since its debut in 2018, COSMEDICON has become the go-to event for practitioners who are passionate about aesthetic medicine. It’s your chance to discover the latest aesthetic advancements, connect with industry experts, and sharpen your skills. The 2025 edition will unveil ground-breaking treatments, transformative tech, and the hottest trends—plus, you’ll be among the first to see new products launching in Australia.
Keynote speakers and industry leaders
One of the hallmarks of COSMEDICON is its impressive lineup of speakers, and 2025 is set to raise the bar even higher. The conference will feature renowned plastic surgeons, dermatologists, cosmetic physicians and cosmetic nurses sharing their expertise on diverse topics. From newly released cosmetic injectables to the latest in energy-based devices, regenerative medicine and skincare, the sessions will provide a wealth of knowledge that caters to seasoned professionals and newcomers alike.
Confirmed keynote speakers include Dr David Kosenko (current CPCA President), Dr Gabi Caswell (past-President, ACAM and nominated for four AUS SPACE 25 Awards), Dr Ian Holten (Plastic Surgeon), Dr John Flynn (past-President ACCSM) and Nicole Dabeau (former Global Brand and Partnerships Director at Fresh Clinics), to name a few.
COSMEDICON is celebrated for its practical approach, and in 2025 it will offer a full day of hands-on workshops on the first day. Delegates can choose from three concurrent sessions to tailor their educational experience. Additionally, breakfast workshops will be available on Friday and Saturday. Whether it’s mastering the latest injectables techniques, exploring emerging energy device technologies, or perfecting skincare treatments, these sessions offer unparalleled opportunities for direct application.
The highly popular live demonstration sessions will also return, showcasing realtime injectable procedures performed by experts. These demonstrations are invaluable for practitioners seeking to enhance their repertoire while observing nuanced approaches to complex cases.
Networking and collaboration opportunities
Beyond its robust scientific program, COSMEDICON cultivates an exceptional atmosphere for meaningful connections. Its sophisticated social events provide an elegant setting to engage with peers, industry visionaries, and leading exhibitors.
From the elegant Welcome Drinks at The Bar to the glamorous ‘Barbie’-themed Gala Dinner, culminating in the Networking Event in The Courtyard, delegates will enjoy abundant opportunities to unwind, forge new connections, exchange insights, ignite collaborations, and celebrate their shared passion for aesthetics.
Prepare to be inspired with a blend of science and hands-on learning at COSMEDICON! Enjoy keynote talks, live demos, and interactive workshops focused on innovation, patient safety, and ethical practice—ideal for professionals staying ahead of the curve.
Explore the COSMEDICON Trade Exhibition
The COSMEDICON Trade Exhibition Hall is the heart of the action, offering the ultimate opportunity to explore the latest products, devices, and breakthrough technologies transforming the industry. From next generation energy-based devices and advanced injectables to leading-edge skincare and treatments, this exhibition truly has it all.
Experience it all firsthand with live demonstrations, hands-on opportunities, and direct conversations with brand representatives eager to showcase how their innovations can elevate your practice. It’s the ultimate destination to explore the latest advancements in aesthetic medicine!
Why you should attend
Whether you’re a seasoned doctor, an aesthetic nurse, or a clinic manager, COSMEDICON 2025 has something to offer everyone. This conference goes beyond education—it’s an immersive journey into the future of aesthetics, providing an unparalleled opportunity to refine your skills, expand your expertise, and forge meaningful connections within the vibrant aesthetics community. Visit COSMEDICON.COM.AU for tickets and new speaker announcements.
Out About &
Industry events, social gatherings and recent brand launches.
Avaderm’s VIP Regeneration Seminar
On November 11th , 2024, T-Lab, under the leadership of the dynamic Ashleigh Strauss, welcomed over 100 cosmetic nurses to Brisbane’s The Calile Hotel for the Avaderm VIP Regeneration Seminar to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and cutting-edge techniques in regenerative aesthetics.
It’s no surprise the event sold out in under 24 hours, given its lineup of world-class speakers, transformative case studies, and engaging discussions that sparked excitement about the role of PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) and PRF (Platelet-Rich Fibrin) in aesthetics. Ashleigh Strauss set the tone with insightful perspectives on combining PRP and PRF with threads, lasers, and radiofrequency to maximise their potential.
Dr Robin Chok showcased stunning results achieved by integrating Rejuran, PRP, and PRF,
redefining patient outcomes through advanced combination therapies while Angela Bell RN of Filtered Faces presented captivating case studies on the synergy of threads and PRP.
Ana Eftimova RN from Mapp Aesthetics brought a unique perspective, discussing rare PRF complications, sparking valuable dialogue. Additional contributions from esteemed practitioners Maram Hamawi RN and Bianca Lorena Saldes RN inspired attendees to push boundaries – all while enjoying the prestigious and beautiful spaces of The Calile Hotel.
Juv’ae Cosmetic Collective Awards
On December 1st, 2024, Juv’ae celebrated an extraordinary milestone—15 years of innovation, care, and community in the aesthetics industry. This glamorous evening, reminiscent of the Oscars, featured awards, presentations, and captivating performances.
Founders Mel and Nicole took centre stage, expressing their heartfelt thanks to Juv’ae’s exceptional community of nurses and supportive suppliers—the pillars of Juv’ae’s success.
Among the highlights of the evening were appearances by some of the industry’s leading experts, including Dr Steven Liew, Dr Lucas De Siqueria, Dr Davin Lim, and Dr Van Park.
The awards recognised the achievements of Juv’ae’s talented injectable nurses, who have built the company’s reputation as a trusted name in aesthetics. Their skill and dedication were celebrated with welldeserved accolades, honouring their pivotal role in the organisation’s success.
The Fresh Life Conference 2024
From October 29th to 31st, 2024, we had the privilege of joining Fresh Clinics at their annual The Fresh Life Conference, set against the breathtaking backdrop of Byron Bay.
Cosmetic nurses from across Australia gathered to learn the latest advancements in aesthetic treatments and business, while also recharging through wellness activities like yoga, meditation, and complimentary spa treatments.
This unique three-day event took place at the Crystalbrook Resort, featuring two spacious tents for talks, a large indoor room for exhibitors, and thoughtfully arranged workshops within the resort’s rooms.
A key focus of this year’s discussions centered on navigating regulatory changes and the cost-of-living crisis, providing valuable insights on adapting to these evolving challenges.
Rejuran Symposium Korea
From October 28th to 29th, 2024, Rejuran hosted over 16 leading Australian medical professionals on an exclusive trip to Korea to attend the Rejuran Symposium.
The symposium began with a journey to the Namdaecheon River, where attendees experienced the origins of Rejuran’s wild salmon DNA and observed salmon returning to their spawning grounds—a vivid reflection of Rejuran’s “Power of Renewal.” Guests then toured PharmaResearch’s cutting-edge bioengineering facilities, gaining exclusive insights into the production of DOT technology.
Key presentations explored advanced applications of DOT DNA technology and its broader implications for anti-ageing and skin repair,
with esteemed speakers Dr Steven Liew and Dr John Sullivan sharing their expertise. Rejuran stands out by enhancing skin health and vitality through the stimulation of healing and collagen production. In Australia, it holds a unique position as a Class III medical device, enabling broad consumer awareness while adhering to rigorous medical standards. As specialist facial plastic surgeon Dr Steven Liew remarked, “Patient satisfaction is consistently high, and results are amplified when combined with devices or neuromodulators.”
International guests Alex Pike and Dr Sarah Hart added depth to the discussions, showcasing how regenerative skincare is being adopted across diverse markets.
pHformula Arrives At LUSH Skin & Laser Clinic
We caught up with CAT ARMSTRONG , Clinical Director of LUSH, to discuss why this partnership is an ideal match for her clinic.
At LUSH, excellence is pivotal, and nothing is ever done by halves. Every opportunity is meticulously considered, thoroughly researched, and thoughtfully planned to align with the clinic’s core values of exceptional care and remarkable results. So, it’s no surprise that pHformula, a brand celebrated for its scientific innovation, artistic precision and long-lasting results, felt like a natural fit.
“With so many skincare brands out there, pHformula stood out as something truly unique. It’s not just another skincare range – it’s a dermatological system that focuses on skin resurfacing in a way that’s both results driven and gentle. What really sold me was the science behind it and the ability to customise treatments for a range of skin concerns. It felt like the perfect addition to complement what we already offer, giving our clients even more options to achieve incredible skin health outcomes,” says Cat.
Unlike traditional resurfacing treatments that can be harsh on the skin, pHformula offers a controlled chemical resurfacing experience. Its exclusive delivery vehicle complex, PH-DVC™, sets it apart by precisely delivering unbuffered acids rapidly into the skin. This innovative approach minimises surface irritation, optimises proton release, and delivers exceptional regenerative results without downtime.
“We’re committed to delivering top-quality, results-driven treatments that positively impact our clients’ lives. pHformula aligns seamlessly with our philosophy – it’s innovative, science-backed, and focused on supporting long-term skin health. Our mission has always been to provide the very best for our Shepparton community, and pHformula embodies that commitment by offering highly effective, personalised solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs,” said Cat.
pHformula is renowned for its extensive scope of resurfacing solutions, empowering clinicians to customise more than 50 professional treatments that effectively correct and manage its four key skin disorders: A.G.E. (cutaneous ageing), M.E.L.A. (pigment disorders e.g. melasma), A.C. (acne), and C.R. (chronic redness e.g. rosacea). Clinical treatments are supported by simple yet multifunctional homecare products which include an A.C.T.I.V.E. prescription, daily essentials and complimentary capsules SOS, VITA ABCD infused moisturisers, concentrated corrective serums and POINT peptide ointments. Each pathway addressing unique skin concerns with precision and efficacy that enables the team at LUSH to curate targeted and personalised solutions for their clients.
When looking to invest in a new brand, Cat emphasises that it’s a big decision. “I dedicated significant time to exploring the research behind pHformula, carefully reviewing its formulations and results. I invited the Australian distributor, Danielle, to the clinic to showcase the product and conduct demonstrations with my team. Following that my team and I trialled the products ourselves, so we could really understand how they worked”.
As part of her research, Cat also surprised two of her skin therapists with an exclusive trip to Barcelona, Spain, to attend training at the pHformula Art Club. This immersive experience provided them with an unparalleled opportunity to deepen their understanding of the brand’s scientific foundations while performing and experiencing the resurfacing treatments firsthand. “Their feedback and enthusiasm played a huge role in confirming that this was the right move for us and our clients,” says Cat who then got to work on designing a launch event to showcase pHformula to her Shepparton community.
“It’s not just another skincare range – it’s a dermatological system that focuses on skin resurfacing in a way that’s both results driven and gentle.”
“Our pHformula launch event was a truly special milestone for the clinic. We aimed to create a welcoming, interactive space where clients could connect with the brand and experience it firsthand through live demonstrations.”
The event, styled with an elegant black-and-white theme reflecting the pHformula branding, showcased the passion and dedication that Cat and the LUSH team have for delivering exceptional experiences for their clients. Guests arrived to a transportive live violin performance before enjoying a champagne lunch, an exclusive goodie-bag and an engaging education session that showcased the power of pHformula. “The educational session was a standout success, as clients loved learning how pHformula could address their skin concerns. The best part was seeing the excitement and curiosity from everyone – our clients were thrilled to have access to such a cutting-edge range right here in Shepparton, and our team felt so proud to showcase a brand we believe in,” said Cat.
Since introducing pHformula to her clinic, Cat has been delighted by the overwhelmingly positive feedback. “Clients are raving about the results – healthier, glowing skin without any irritation,” she shares. “Many have commented on how happy they are to have access to such an advanced skincare option locally. It’s been wonderful to see our clients trust the range so quickly and embrace it as part of their skincare routines.”
“pHformula has already added so much value to our clinic by broadening what we can offer in terms of customised treatments. Moving forward, I can see it playing a key role in our growth by attracting new clients who are seeking innovative, science-led skin solutions. It also strengthens the trust that our existing clients have in us as a clinic that only invests in the best”, says Cat.
“We are incredibly proud to see pHformula in the hands of Cat and her team at LUSH and to have been part of such a memorable launch. This year, we’re excited to share our passion for protons and inspire more like-minded skin specialists through our education workshops, events, and an unforgettable trip to the pHformula Art Club Barcelona in May.” – Danielle Hughes, pHformula Australia.
phformula.com.au
The Next Generation of Peptides
We sat down with Medik8’s Chief Product Officer and Founding Partner, Daniel Isaacs, to discuss their new Liquid Peptides Advanced MP
With over a decade of experience in advanced skincare, what significant changes have you observed in the industry, and how has Medik8 evolved to remain a leader?
The skincare industry has experienced a seismic shift in the past decade, driven by the rise of consumer education, demand for transparency and the integration of cutting-edge science with sustainability. At Medik8, we’ve maintained our position as a leader in skincare by embracing these changes and continuously refining our formulations to deliver results without compromise.
Our commitment to innovation is rooted in a clear mission: to demystify professional skincare. This means creating solutions that combine clinical efficacy with userfriendly experiences, such as our highly tolerated retinal range or our peptide-based advancements like Liquid Peptides Advanced MP.
helping to boost skin’s collagen, elastin & hyaluronic acid levels. Together, these MiniProteinsTM work synergistically to deliver visible wrinkle reduction in both the short and long term, offering a highly targeted, science-backed solution for ageing skin.
Sustainability is a core focus for Medik8. Can you share how this principle has influenced product development and your approach to innovation?
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at Medik8, shaping both our product development and innovation processes. From sustainably minded packaging to formulations crafted with biodegradable ingredients, we ensure that our clinical skincare solutions are as kind to the planet as they are effective.
We’re also proud to be a certified B Corporation, which reflects our unwavering commitment to meeting the highest standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. This certification reinforces our dedication to sustainable practices across all aspects of our business - from sourcing renewable ingredients to reducing our carbon footprint.
The launch of Liquid Peptides Advanced MP introduces groundbreaking MiniProteins™. Can you explain their unique benefits and how they redefine wrinkle reduction?
MiniProteins™ are a groundbreaking new frontier in peptide technology. These advanced molecules are meticulously designed to target specific skin concerns with precision. In Liquid Peptides Advanced MP, we’ve harnessed the power of two unique MiniProteinsTM into a first-of-a-kind technology, Dual MiniProteinsTM :
• Expression Line MiniProteinTM target the visible signs of repetitive facial movements, helping to relax and smooth the appearance of dynamic expression lines for visibly reduced wrinkle depth.
• Growth Factor MiniProteinTM works to support the skin’s deeper layers by visibly improving the appearance of skin structure over time by
Mini proteins and peptides are set to be the next frontier. What inspired Medik8 to pursue these advancements, and how do you see them shaping skincare in the next five years?
At Medik8, we’re driven by the philosophy of ‘simple but smart’ science that align with both scientific excellence and customer needs. Peptides have always been a cornerstone of this approach due to their ability to deliver transformative results while working harmoniously with the skin. The development of MiniProteins™ represents the next evolution - combining smaller, more potent molecules with advanced delivery systems to unlock their full potential.
In the next five years, we predict that skincare will become even more personalised, with MiniProteins™ paving the way for highly targeted treatments. These advancements will enable skincare to address specific concerns with unprecedented precision.
With peptides being highlighted as a top-growing ingredient, what do you predict will be their role in skincare innovation, and how does Medik8 plan to lead this evolution?
Peptides are incredibly versatile, making them a powerhouse ingredient for the future of skincare. From age-defying results to skin barrier repair, their ability to target multiple pathways ensures they’ll remain a staple in innovation.
At Medik8, we see peptides as a bridge between natural skin processes and advanced skincare science. As the demand for multifunctional, results-driven products grows, we will continue to pioneer and redefine our delivery mechanisms, like those in Liquid Peptides Advanced MP, to ensure peptides are utilised to their fullest potential and delivered on every level - from immediate hydration to long-term rejuvenation. medik8.com.au
DIMINISH THE APPEARANCE OF EXPRESSION LINES IN 10 MINUTES * AND DEEP-SET WRINKLES IN 8 WEEKS * WITH BREAKTHROUGH BIO-TECHNOLOGY:
*
WRINKLE REDUCTION, REDEFINED
New on the Scene
Explore the latest spa and clinic openings you need to visit.
Slow House
In the heart of Bondi Beach, Slow House has launched its first franchise under the ownership of Marc Dias, Paul Dias, and Jason Zammit, founders of Beachouse Gym. Originally founded by Natassjha and Jody Coggan, Slow House is redefining self-care with its philosophy of slowing down and reconnecting.
Situated in the iconic Pacific Building, this 700-square-meter sanctuary offers thermal baths, saunas, cold plunge pools, and advanced recovery therapies, creating a haven for relaxation and holistic well-being.
“Slow House stands out in its approach to sauna therapy by offering a holistic and personalised experience,” says Marc Dias. “We tailor sessions to clients’ wellness goals—like detoxification or stress relief—
Luxe Chatswood Flagship Clinic
We are thrilled to announce the opening of the Luxe Chatswood Flagship Clinic, our latest step in redefining premium cosmetic care in Australia. Spanning an impressive 800 sqm, our clinic combines state-of-the-art technology with an opulent, modern fit-out, ensuring an unparalleled experience for our clients.
enhancing the experience with natural scents, soothing sounds, and personalised settings. Our aim is to foster mindful practices and create a warm environment that supports every client’s wellness journey.”
At the heart of Slow House is accessible wellness, with flexible memberships, single sessions, and gift cards designed to suit any lifestyle. Open daily from 6:30 AM to 9:00 PM, it serves as a tranquil retreat for both locals and visitors.
More than just a wellness space, Slow House Bondi Beach is a destination to pause, recharge, and reconnect.
At Luxe, we pride ourselves on delivering world-class cosmetic treatments that are results-driven, safe, and tailored to individual needs. As the exclusive signature partner of BTL in Australia and a privilege partner of Cynosure, Luxe Chatswood is equipped with the most advanced devices and cutting-edge technologies available on the global market.
Our flagship clinic is more than just a treatment destination – it’s a sanctuary where artistry meets medical excellence. With an expert team of highly skilled doctors, clinicians, and therapists, we offer a wide array of treatments, from non-invasive body contouring and skin rejuvenation to anti-ageing solutions.
Luxe Chatswood sets a new benchmark for luxury and efficacy in cosmetic care. This grand opening represents our unwavering commitment to delivering bespoke experiences and transformative results that empower our clients to look and feel their very best.
Unveil Aesthetics
Located in the heart of East Ivanhoe Village in Melbourne, Unveil Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery is setting a new benchmark in aesthetics with its unique fusion of innovation, expertise, and education. Guided by a passion for excellence and a commitment to ethical care, Unveil Aesthetics takes a client-first approach, offering personalised treatment plans that emphasise safety, transparency, and patient empowerment, delivering outstanding results every step of the way.
Dr. Cosima Medispa
As a trusted partner in the aesthetic and medical communities, Unveil Aesthetics leverages cutting-edge technologies and evidence-based practices to drive progress, elevate standards, and foster education. Their collaborative approach enhances patient outcomes while contributing to broader discussions on quality, innovation, patient safety, and professional growth within the aesthetics field.
More than a clinic—it is a hub for collaboration, community and connection.
Dr Cosima Medispa has opened its stunning new location in Bondi Junction, blending cutting-edge technology with effortless elegance. Led by the esteemed Dr Cosima Karlburger, this luxurious space features a breathtaking Amethyst Quartz reception area and serene, design-forward interiors that elevate every visit.
The medispa specialises in enhancing natural beauty with precision
and care. Clients can indulge in premium treatments powered by innovations like Byonik, DoubleTite, and the Aerolase Neo Elite, known for its remarkable ability to rejuvenate skin and restore radiance.
For those seeking a refined yet welcoming retreat where confidence is nurtured and results speak volumes, Dr Cosima Medispa is a must-visit.
Why This Major Gym Chain Has Now Tapped Into The Recovery Space
How Derrimut 24:7 is redefining the intersection of health, fitness, wellness, and aesthetics.
As the fitness and wellness industry continues to evolve, the need for a comprehensive approach to health has never been more apparent. Derrimut Recovery, the latest addition to the large and well-known Derrimut 24:7 Gym’s suite of offerings, is redesigning the way we think about recovery, self-care, and community wellness.
Combining state-of-the-art recovery tools with innovative skin and wellness treatments, Derrimut Recovery aims to be a true “one-stop shop” for fitness enthusiasts and wellness seekers – hinting that this may be the future of how the wellness industry integrates with health & fitness.
The philosophy behind Derrimut Recovery is to encompass proper recovery, preventive care, and overall well-being under the care of experienced therapists. Although this is the first in the expansion of the company, there is no shortage of treatment offerings – from cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen chamber, machine-led lymphatic drainage, and laser hair removal (with more treatments to be introduced).
We asked the team at Derrimut about the latest venture with Derrimut Recovery.
What inspired the creation of Derrimut Recovery, and how does it align with your overall mission?
“We recognised that launching Derrimut Recovery was a natural next step for us, one that would enhance and complement the services we’ve already been offering”, says Ashley Owen, CEO of Derrimut Gyms. “Over time, we’ve seen that the fitness and wellness journey extends beyond just exercise; it’s about holistic well-being, recovery, and the long-term health of our community”.
“Derrimut Recovery allows us to provide a more comprehensive, full-service experience, giving members access to not only top-tier fitness facilities but also the recovery tools they need to optimise their progress, prevent injury, and maintain a sustainable healthy lifestyle. We pride ourselves on being more than just a gym – we’re a place where people can truly transform their lives”.
“This extension reflects our commitment to offering a complete, integrated approach to fitness and well-being, ensuring our members have the resources they need to reach their full potential, both physically and mentally”.
Why offer services like laser hair removal and spray tans?
“At Derrimut Recovery, we believe in offering a holistic approach to wellness and self-care. Services like Laser Hair Removal and Spray Tans complement our recovery offerings by enhancing our clients’ sense of well-being and personal care”, highlights Bridget Perri, Recovery Manager.
“For many athletes and bodybuilders, maintaining a hair-free appearance is integral to their preparation and presentation, especially during competitions. This aligns perfectly with the needs of our gym community”.
“Our Candela Gentle Max Pro Laser Hair Removal enables us to provide high-quality, effective treatments, not only for hair removal but also for addressing skin concerns such as scarring and pigmentation”.
“These services work as a valuable introduction to our expanding range of skin therapies, which we will continue to roll out in the coming year”.
“We take pride in maintaining a high standard of care across all our services. Our team is highly trained, with both practical experience and formal education, ensuring that they are equipped to provide expert guidance and educate clients on the benefits and considerations of each treatment”.
How do you manage consultations & informed consent with these types of treatments?
“At Derrimut Recovery, we prioritise client safety and transparency”, says Lisa Pignataro, Head of Marketing for Derrimut.
“Before undergoing any treatment, clients are required to complete a comprehensive consent form that covers medical history, medications, and potential contraindications. This allows our therapists to assess each individual’s suitability for treatment and address any concerns”.
“During the consultation, our experienced therapists thoroughly review the client’s medical history and discuss any potential risks, side effects, and expected outcomes. We make sure clients are fully informed about the treatment process and any reactions that may occur. Our therapists are highly trained, having completed extensive education and hands-on training in the use of each service and machine”
addition to the current offerings, we’ll be expanding into advanced skin care treatments, packages, and wellness-based skin experiences.
Our goal is to offer a holistic approach to skin health that goes beyond recovery and supports overall well-being. This will include everything from customized skincare regimens to advanced treatments, as well as packages designed to provide ongoing support and results for all skin types.
“This enables them to confidently answer any questions, provide detailed explanations, and ensure that clients feel comfortable and wellinformed at every stage of their treatment”.
Do memberships include recovery?
How does this area work?
“Currently, our gym memberships do not include access to recovery services. However, we value our community and frequently run member-based giveaways and promotions.
These are designed to give our current members a chance to experience our recovery services, such as cryotherapy, red light therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen, at no additional cost.
Looking ahead to the new year, we are excited to launch new membership options that will provide access to both the gym and recovery services.
We will also introduce standalone recovery memberships for those who wish to focus exclusively on recovery and wellness, giving our members more flexibility in choosing a plan that best suits their needs.
By offering these options, we aim to create a comprehensive approach to fitness and recovery, ensuring our members have everything they need to optimise their health”
How do you manage treatment frequency?
“At present, we offer treatment packages that are designed to cater to different needs and preferences. These packages typically include a set number of treatments per week, providing members with the opportunity to experience various recovery services consistently. This approach allows for ongoing support and encourages regular use of our recovery facilities, ensuring that members can see long-term benefits.
We aim to provide a balance of treatments that people can access regularly. The packages are flexible, allowing members to choose a combination of services that complement their fitness routine and recovery needs.
Will you be expanding your skin focus?
“Yes, we’re planning to significantly expand our focus on skin care. Currently, our recovery services are already complemented by the expertise of our team of diploma-qualified beauty therapists, who bring a deep understanding of skin, skin care, and treatments to the table.
This will extend into a broader range of skin-focused services. In
With this expansion, we aim to cater to individuals seeking both recovery and a more comprehensive skincare solution, merging wellness with beauty in a way that addresses both internal and external health needs.”
What kind of team or specialists will you be bringing on to support this expansion?
To support our expansion into more holistic recovery and skin services, our team is made up of specialists who are not only skilled in beauty and skin treatments but are also trained in recovery services. Our beauty therapists are all diploma-qualified, and we ensure they receive ongoing training in the latest recovery techniques, including cryotherapy, red light therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. This combination of expertise in both beauty and recovery makes our approach unique, as our specialists can deliver treatments that support both physical recovery and skin health simultaneously.
Moving forward, we plan to further expand our team with additional specialists in various fields such as nutrition, wellness coaching, and advanced dermatology.
What sets you apart from other recovery centres?
“What truly sets us apart is our ability to provide a comprehensive wellness experience all under one roof. Our business model is designed to be a one-stop-shop for health and wellness, where our members can access a wide range of services without having to go to multiple locations. Whether you’re looking for high-end fitness equipment in our state-of-the-art gym, recovery therapies like cryotherapy or red-light therapy, or skin and beauty treatments, we offer it all.
We’ve invested significantly in our facilities, with a multi-milliondollar fit-out that ensures top-of-the-line equipment and comfort for everyone—from beginners to athletes.
Additionally, we offer everything from apparel and supplements to nutritious meals, smoothies, and snacks, ensuring that members have easy access to all the resources they need to thrive.
By integrating recovery services with fitness, beauty, and nutrition, we provide a holistic approach to wellness that makes it easier for people to prioritise their health.
Whether you’re looking to improve your fitness, recover from a workout, or take care of your skin, our centre offers a seamless and affordable way to do it all. We believe that there are no excuses for not investing in your health—and we make it accessible, practical, and affordable for everyone.”.
Tips for growing and protecting your small business in a competitive industry
Competing with big brands can be challenging for small business owners in the aesthetics and wellness industry. But you could make your spa or clinic more competitive by offering clients a thoughtful, personalised experience.
There is no doubt that the cost-of-living crisis is hitting Australians hard. This means that people are spending less on ‘discretionary’ items – which, for some, includes spa and beauty treatments. And now that the silly season has come and gone, the first few months of 2025 could be a little slower than usual for your business.
But there are other ways that you can tempt clients to your spa or clinic.
Meeting and Exceeding Expectations
To thrive in an increasingly competitive market, it’s essential for spa owners to not just meet their clients’ expectations but to exceed them. Offering services or perks that clients do not expect, but will appreciate, is one way to do this. Ensuring that your spa or clinic is welcoming, professional and relaxing will also go a long way to making clients feel pampered and cared for.
Offering a Personal Touch
As an independent spa owner, there is something you can give clients that big brands and chain franchises can’t – a thoughtful, personalised experience. Whether you’re treating a new client or a regular who’s been visiting your clinic for years, there are ways you can tailor the experience so that everyone feels appreciated and valued.
For long-time clients, keep track of their personal preferences (such as their favourite type of refreshment, or the exact way they like their treatments done). Remembering birthdays with a small gift or discount can also act as a thoughtful way to show your clients that their business is valued.
For new clients, consider a welcome package with a small discount on their next visit, or a complimentary service add-on, to encourage them to return. Even something as small as sending a personalised ‘thank you’ message after a client has visited can make someone feel appreciated.
Business Insurance is a Spa Owner’s Best Friend
Operating your own spa or clinic comes with its own rewards and challenges, and unplanned events can derail even the best-laid plans. Larger brands and franchises often have a team of commercial lawyers at their disposal when things go wrong. But small business owners don’t have the same resources to draw on should the unexpected happen. This is where business insurance can help. Popular types of cover for spas and clinics include:
• Professional Indemnity Insurance
You want every client to look and feel great when they leave your spa or clinic, but sometimes things can go wrong. Compensation claims take money and time away from running your business and providing excellent service to your other clients.
Professional Indemnity insurance covers you for losses claimed by a third party and defence costs due to alleged or actual negligence in your professional services or advice.
• Public Liability Insurance
It’s a necessary part of the job that aesthetics and wellness professionals
work very closely with clients. This can create unique risks for your business. A poorly performed service could be disastrous for your business and cause significant damage to your finances and reputation. This is where Public Liability insurance can give you peace of mind. This covers legal fees and compensation costs if a customer, member of the public, or a supplier claims against you for injury or damage to their property as a result of your alleged negligent business activities.
• Business Insurance
Professional Indemnity and Public Liability insurance help you take care of your clients. But you may also want to consider protecting other parts of your business.
A Business Insurance Package is designed to provide cover for your business contents, stock, tools and commercial premises when an insured event occurs (such as fire, storm, theft or even accidental damage).
Every spa and clinic is unique. Your Business Insurance Package can be tailored to suit your needs, such as choosing cover for unplanned business interruptions, equipment breakdowns or replacing damaged stock.
Find the Right Cover for Your Spa or Clinic
By focusing on what makes your spa or clinic unique and offering your clients a personalised experience, you can make your business stand out from the crowd.
Operating with the right kind of insurance can also help to protect your business, profits and reputation.
Visit BizCover.com.au to compare multiple insurance quotes online in minutes from selected leading Australian insurers. Find out how much you could save today—for on the go cover, go BizCover!
This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be relied upon as advice. As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the policy wording. The provision of the claims examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be seen as an indication as to how any potential claim will be assessed or accepted. Coverage for claims on the policy will be determined by the insurer, not BizCover.
A Unified Future: A Vision for Self-Regulation in the Beauty and Aesthetic Industry
FAustralia’s beauty and aesthetic industry is dynamic, innovative, and progressive. However, it faces significant challenges.
By STEFANIE MILLA , CEO, Aesthetic and Beauty
ragmented state-by-state regulations, overly stringent rules in certain sectors, and insufficient oversight in others our industry is operating in a complex landscape. This combination stifles innovation, reduces transparency for our patients, and permits unqualified players to enter the industry.
This inconsistency has created a gap where industry professionals and clients are trying to navigate a patchwork of rules, often with unclear standards for safety, qualifications, and accountability. Without a cohesive approach, our industry risks undermining the trust of our clients, exposing practitioners to liability, and stalling its growth and competitiveness.
At ABIC, we believe there is a better way. The Self-Regulation Committee is our response to this challenge. It represents a historic opportunity to unite every sector of our industry under a single, cohesive framework, creating consistency, improving safety, and ensuring excellence.
Why Self-Regulation Matters
ABIC is the only peak body that unites every sector of the beauty and aesthetic industry, and unity is the only way to overcome our industry’s issues.
We are fighting a historic lack of cohesion which has resulted in fragmented standards with safety and qualification requirements differing across states and territories and limited consumer protection where we see clients receiving treatments from practitioners operating without adequate training or adherence to best practices. Without a unified approach, we cannot effectively advocate for the industry or set national benchmarks.
By not addressing these gaps, we are allowing external regulatory bodies—who may lack a full understanding of our industry—to impose unsuitable or overly restrictive regulations. Alternatively, the absence of any regulation we see inconsistent quality, poor safety outcomes, and the erosion of public trust.
The Self-Regulation Committee is not just a proactive solution; it’s a necessity. It is the voice that connects every sector of our industry with government, creating a collaborative and unified approach to regulation.
The Vision of the ABIC Self-Regulation Committee
The Self-Regulation Committee is designed to address regulatory gaps while fostering growth, innovation, and professionalism. Its core objectives include:
• A National Framework: Establishing consistent standards across all states and territories, addressing licensing, qualifications, and safety protocols.
Industry
Council (ABIC)
• SafeSkin Certification: A key component of this framework, SafeSkin Certification sets benchmark national standards from A to Z, including qualification requirements, best practice, HR standards, treatment standards, hygiene, client safety, and professionalism. It’s a foundational step toward creating a safer, more trustworthy industry.
• Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Ensuring practitioners remain informed and skilled through mandatory annual training that reflects the latest industry advancements.
• Advocacy and Collaboration: Acting as a single, unified voice to regulatory bodies and government, ensuring the industry’s needs are clearly articulated and understood.
The Consequences of Inaction
If the industry fails to embrace self-regulation, we face significant risks:
• Continuing Erosion of Public Trust: Without clear and consistent standards, clients will continue to lose confidence in the safety and professionalism of treatments.
• Increased Liability for Practitioners: Inconsistent or absent regulations leave professionals vulnerable to legal challenges.
• External Over-Regulation: Governments or external bodies can continue to impose stricter regulations that fail to consider the nuances of our industry, leading to restrictive or unsuitable policies.
• The Self-Regulation Committee provides the opportunity to take control of our future, creating a system that reflects the expertise and needs of those within the industry.
A Roadmap for Change
The committee’s work is guided by a comprehensive five-year plan, designed to ensure long-term success.
Year 1: Laying the Groundwork. In its first year, the committee is focused on building a solid foundation. This includes forming advisory groups with expertise across sectors, initiating industry-wide consultations, and refining the SafeSkin Certification as a benchmark for safety and professionalism. We are also beginning discussions with government bodies to provide understanding of our industry and feedback, while establishing ABIC as the peak self-regulatory body.
Year 2: Rolling Out Standards. The committee will introduce sector-specific standards and apply for continuing professional development (CPD) programs in our industry. These initiatives will be supported by educational resources and workshops to ensure accessibility and understanding for all professionals. Advocacy for
compulsory CPD participation will intensify, setting the stage for broader regulatory adoption.
Year 3: Pilot Licensing and Compliance. In select regions, the committee will pilot compulsory licensing frameworks, integrating CPD programs to evaluate their effectiveness. This phase will also include the development of a compliance monitoring system, ensuring practitioners adhere to established standards.
Year 4: National Expansion. By the fourth year, the committee will aim to get support for implementing pilot licensing requirements nationwide, supported by robust monitoring and reporting systems. ABIC will work closely with government bodies to advocate for its role as the primary authority overseeing compliance.
Year 5: Continuous Improvement. The final year will focus on evaluating and refining the framework. This includes aligning Australian standards with international best practices and positioning our industry as a global leader in safety, innovation, and professionalism.
The Benefits of Self-Regulation
For practitioners, businesses, and clients alike, self-regulation offers tangible benefits:
• Enhanced Professional Credibility: Programs like SafeSkin Certification signal a commitment to excellence, setting practitioners apart in a competitive market.
• Improved Safety and Accountability: Consistent standards reduce risks, protect clients, and safeguard practitioners.
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• Stronger Advocacy: A unified voice ensures that the industry’s needs are represented effectively to government and regulatory bodies.
• A Globally Competitive Industry: By aligning with international best practices, we can position Australia’s beauty and aesthetic industry as a global leader.
Join Us in Shaping the Future
The Self-Regulation Committee is more than a regulatory initiative— it’s an opportunity to build a better, stronger industry. By participating, you can help create a framework that supports growth, ensures safety, and fosters trust within our industry.
ABIC is inviting professionals and stakeholders from every sector to contribute their expertise. Whether as part of an advisory group or as an advocate for SafeSkin Certification and CPD, your involvement is vital.
This is your chance to be part of a historic moment for the beauty and aesthetic industry in Australia. Together, we can take control of our future, ensuring that our industry not only meets but exceeds the expectations of clients, regulators, and professionals alike.
To learn more or to join the Self-Regulation Committee, visit theabic.org.au/abic-self-regulation-committee or email us at info@theabic.org.au.
Let’s work together to shape an industry defined by excellence, trust, and unity.
How founders and employees can leverage the power of PR in 2025
With business as competitive as ever, it has never been more important for brands to invest in public relations (PR) to cut through the noise and generate buzz.
Simply put, PR is about managing your reputation and building strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders. To harness the power of PR in 2025, beauty and wellness entrepreneurs— and the intrapreneurs within these businesses— must focus on developing and growing their personal brands.
The era of the personal brand
Consumers are drawn to brands they trust and connect with, which is why more companies are showcasing the people behind them. Local examples include tbh Skincare Co-Founder
Rachael Wilde sharing her business journey on TikTok and Saint Haven Owner Tim Gurner discussing his health journey in the media. Personal brands have the power to sell products and services—and the best part? You don’t need to be a founder to build one.
Decide what you want to be known for
To solidify your reputation as an industry expert, begin by defining what you want to be known for. Your credentials and areas of specialisation provide the ideal foundation for building your authority. Consider Australian skin expert Melanie Grant. Renowned globally as the ultimate authority on glowing skin, her name is synonymous with excellence. From highprofile clients like Lara Worthington to Victoria Beckham, she’s earned her title as the facialist to the stars.
So, what do you want people to think of when they hear your name?
Chelsea Cucinotta, Founder and Director of Honey Buzz PR, leads a boutique agency specialising in PR and social media. With a journalism background, she’s a passionate speaker, recently presenting on the impact of PR for organisations.
Pitch perfect. Next, focus on crafting a compelling pitch. This could be an elevator pitch to share while networking or the key messages you communicate through traditional and social media channels. Let these questions guide you:
• Who are you?
• What do you do?
• Why do you do it?
• What’s your point of difference?
Identifying your point of difference or unique selling point is critical. Lean on any relevant experiences that have shaped your approach. For
beauty and wellness clinic owners, it could be that you were the first to adopt certain modalities or product lines in Australia.
The same process applies to employees, whose personal brand won’t just help the business they’re in now but will also set them up for future success. Intrapreneurs should highlight career-defining moments, such as training under a renowned mentor or having their work featured in magazines. Showcase anything that sets you apart and elevates your professional profile.
Social media, press and speaking opportunities
Generating buzz for your work is only effective if people have a way to stay connected and engage with you online. Make sure your social media profiles are established and optimised across the right platforms. With this foundation in place, you’ll be ready to connect with relevant journalists and showcase your expertise.
You could pitch a contributor piece on the latest biohacking treatment making waves in Australia or share your insights on a trending topic—like why the tan lines trend is problematic or how to achieve Hailey Bieber’s signature glazed skin at home. For speaking opportunities, identify relevant industry events you could be a part of. Use the pitch you crafted earlier to reinforce why you’re perfect for the job.
If you are ready to take things seriously, a professional headshot is a must.
The importance of building (and maintaining relationships)
Think about the internal and external stakeholders in your work— team members, clients, suppliers, and your online community. Building and nurturing these networks will naturally lead to new opportunities. Don’t overlook emerging or unexpected audiences either! Now is the perfect time to invest in PR. Whether you’re an employer or employee, developing a strong personal brand will set you apart and drive your success. Everyone starts somewhere, so why wait? It’s time to position yourself as a leader, share your expertise, and make your mark on the world.
PERTH - MELBOURNE - SYDNEY
Join the Aesthetic Business Masters and discover actionable strategies to build a thriving practice, create lasting client loyalty, and master the art of sustainable profitability—no matter what’s happening in the economy.
Interactive Day
Over 15 Industry Expert Speakers
3 Open Panel Discussions on: AI, PR and Compliance
Jacinta king
Nicole Montgomery
Grazina Fechner
Money Mistakes That Hold Businesses Back And How to Avoid Them
Running a business is one of the most rewarding things you can do - but let’s be real, managing the financial side is hard. Balancing the books, keeping clients happy, and motivating your team while staying profitable is no small task.
Over the years, business owners often encounter a few common pitfalls. Here’s how to steer clear of them:
Not Knowing Your Numbers
Your financials aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet— profit margins, cash flow, and revenue are the drivers that keep your business moving forward. To optimise your business and profits you need to understand what’s working and what isn’t, and without diving into the numbers its near impossible to know. Set a date once a week to review your reports and you’ll start to see how the decisions you make daily, affect your bottom line.
Under-pricing Your Services
I get it, you’re worried that raising your prices will scare off clients, and instead of a reception area full of clients, it will be empty with the occasional tumbleweed blowing through. But under-pricing doesn’t just hurt your profits—it undervalues the time, effort, and quality of your services. Your pricing should reflect your overheads, the cost of delivering the service, and the value of the experience you’re providing. Forget about trying to match competitors’ prices—your business is unique, and your pricing should be too.
Ignoring Cash Flow
Revenue might look great in your reports, but cash flow is what keeps your business alive. I still remember my first big BAS bill—it felt like a win because it meant my spa was finally making money after spending on the fitout and opening orders, but handing over that cash? #ouch! Forecasting cash flow gave me clarity on what my bank balance would look like months into the future, so I wasn’t caught off guard by big expenses.
Investing Without a Strategy
Splurging on new equipment, extra inventory, or a marketing push? If you’re not clear on how that investment will pay off, you risk wasting all that hard earned cash. I’ve been there, I spent thousands on a service I thought would be a hit, only to find out it didn’t resonate with my clients. I learnt the hard way to always test small before committing big.
Forgetting a Rainy-Day Fund
Unexpected expenses can, and will, pop up—whether it’s broken equipment, slower seasons (hello Jan & Feb), or opportunities that need quick funding. I recommend every business owner set aside three months’ worth of overheads in a separate account. Thank goodness I had this in my spa as my rainy day came in the form of lockdowns, and it meant we had enough to survive while we had no money coming in.
Making Decisions Without Data
Trusting your gut can work - until it doesn’t. I’m sure we can all relate to having a particularly busy month and panic hiring extra staff to keep up with demand. At the time, it feels like the right move, but more often than not the extra costs wipe out nearly all the profit and leave you with a team member you might not need. Lesson learned! Instead of rushing into decisions, lean on data. By analysing past trends and using forecasts, you can make smarter, more strategic choices that keep clients happy and protect your bottom line.
Not Managing GST
Here’s the deal: GST isn’t your money - it’s tax paid by your clients. When you became a business owner you got an additional job you didn’t want or needcollecting GST for the ATO. When you calculate your prices, make sure you add GST on top, and put the GST you’ve collected into a separate bank account weekly. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when BAS rolls around, and you can pay it in full with no stress.
Forgetting the Big Picture
Whether you want to expand, set up a retirement plan, or eventually sell your business, thinking ahead is so important. When you have a clear vision of where you want to be in five years, it becomes much easier to make decisions that align with those goals.
Running my own spa taught me lessons no business degree ever could. No matter what kind of business you run—whether it’s a clinic, a skincare brand, or a professional services firm—the keys to success are universal: stay on top of your numbers, plan for the future, and keep a close eye on your cash flow. Nail these fundamentals and your business won’t just survive, it will thrive.
goldiegroup.com.au
Amy Fox, Accountant and a former spa owner
Fast-Track Your Business Success With Momentum
12 weeks to transform your business
We spoke with Kirsty, the driving force behind Momentum, to learn more about her unique expertise and what makes this program a game-changer.
Known for her prowess in business mentoring, marketing and brand strategy, Kirsty Sinclair has established herself as a leading authority in helping businesses in the beauty, skin, and medical aesthetics industries achieve new levels of growth. Her company Apoyo recently launched Momentum, a groundbreaking 12-week accelerator program designed to help ambitious entrepreneurs achieve extraordinary success.
Introducing Momentum
With nearly 2 decades of experience spanning marketing and business development roles at leading skincare brands, working in successful tech startups, and her own thriving ventures, Kirsty’s extensive experience encompasses a deep understanding of the industry that truly sets her apart. Her ability to blend innovative marketing strategies with operational excellence makes her a valuable asset to businesses seeking sustainable growth.
What inspired the creation of Momentum?
Over the years, I’ve seen how challenging it can be for clinic owners and entrepreneurs to scale sustainably while maintaining balance, especially while trying to do it all themselves. Momentum was born out of my desire to provide a comprehensive roadmap that not only addresses their pain points but empowers them to move forward with confidence.
What excites you most about the future of Apoyo?
I’m thrilled to be working with some amazing business owners inside Momentum and cannot wait to see and share some of the results and case studies that come out of that. Beyond that, the launch of additional courses will allow us to reach a broader audience and continue supporting the growth and success of this incredible industry.
Real Results, Real Impact
Momentum is a 12-week immersive journey combining group coaching, self-paced modules, and exclusive resources tailored to the unique challenges of the aesthetics industry. Participants will learn to:
• Streamline operations and improve processes and efficiencies with tools like AI and automations.
• Explore core marketing principles and how to get the most out of marketing efforts.
• Learn the essential skills to build strong client relationships, drive sales, and grow your revenue.
• Maintain motivation, build resilience and overcome challenges.
• Implement learnings and step forward with confidence and clarity.
What makes you unique as a business mentor?
I’ve walked the path many of my clients are on. From managing skin clinics and working in business development roles, to serving as a marketing manager for a leading skincare distributor, and now running my own business, I’ve seen the industry from every angle.
My approach is holistic and incorporates mindset and wellness principles, as well as a focus on building strong brands, optimising operations, and fostering leadership skills to create thriving businesses that align with their owners’ personal and professional goals.
Clients who have partnered with Apoyo consistently praise Kirsty’s dedication, creativity, and ability to drive tangible results:
“Kirsty not only took on our brief to a tee but also assisted us in many other areas. She truly values her customers and genuinely cares about their success.” – Elke.
“Her creative input and ability to refine ideas into actionable steps made the entire experience seamless. We highly recommend Kirsty to anyone looking for a skilled and passionate professional.” – Keira
“Kirsty brings a wealth of knowledge and investigates all aspects of the business to implement better systems for growth.”– Heather.
Join Momentum
If you’re ready to take your business to the next level, Apoyo’s business accelerator program is your chance to gain the tools, guidance, and community support you need to thrive. To learn more and secure your spot, visit the Apoyo website apoyo.club/momentum
SPA+CLINIC subscribers get $500 off the total price of the program when they pay up front. Code is SPA500.
Offer valid until 30 June 2025.
Scale your online store in 2025 and beyond!
LYN NGUYEN shares her strategies to optimise your online store and maximise your revenue streams.
Having an online presence has never been more important for both product and service-based businesses. While an online store presents opportunities to engage new and existing audiences at every hour of the day, it can also bring its challenges if not set up correctly from the beginning. E-commerce success comes down to establishing strong foundations that make it easy to scale and grow over the long-term.
Stay on top of your inventory
Successfully scaling begins with sophisticated inventory planning. That means ensuring your consumer demand patterns and marketing initiatives are aligned.
Aesthetics and wellness brands need a deep understanding of seasonal purchasing patterns. Plan for surges in demand during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Christmas, and New Year’s resolution season. Don’t overlook notable spikes around Valentine’s Day, Easter, and endof-financial-year sales in June and July.
Along with staying on top of these key dates, it’s crucial to align your marketing campaigns with inventory levels. Striking the right balance between meeting demand and avoiding overstocking. Savvy brands use historical data and predictive analytics to forecast accurately, preventing stockouts and excess inventory—both of which can strain working capital.
Optimise your margins
Scaling your e-commerce store requires a clear understanding of your margins and a focus on improving them. Leverage peak trade periods like Black Friday and Cyber Monday to negotiate better supplier pricing. This approach allows brands to drive higher-volume purchases at lower costs, boosting profits during these high-demand sales events.
It’s also worth looking at your packaging. A simple packaging change allowed us to fit 50% more units into a shipping container. This change significantly boosted profit margins, saving us $100,000 in freight costs in just one year!
Be strategic with your marketing budget and approach
After consulting with numerous health and wellness e-commerce brands, it’s clear that scaling requires a significant marketing budget. There are a couple of things to keep in mind when establishing a digital marketing strategy:
• Margin analysis – meticulously calculate
your product margins to determine a sustainable marketing spend (think bigger picture, not just for the short-term)
• Budget allocation – allocate marketing budget to channels based on performance metrics and to the platforms where your customers can be found
• Channel activity – For aesthetics and wellness brands, platforms such as Meta, Google, email marketing, Pinterest, and partnerships with influencers and creators provide valuable opportunities. While increased marketing spend may have an impact on your short-term profitability, it is an essential exercise for building brand awareness and market share. Successful brands see this as an investment in long-term growth, rather than an expense.
Omnichannel excellence
More consumers are opting for an omnichannel shopping experience. Consider how you can create a seamless experience for your customers at all levels through:
• Click and collect
• Virtual consultations
• Same-day delivery
• Synchronised inventory across your brick-and-mortar and online stores
• Unified messaging across all platforms
Make the end-to-end customer journey as easy as it can be
So many online stores overcomplicate what should be a seamless and enjoyable experience. To increase revenue, you’ll want to look at overcoming purchasing friction at every touchpoint by meticulously designing an intuitive and user-friendly site. In the long run, this will dramatically reduce abandonment rates and convert more browsers into buyers. Payment solutions are often overlooked but are an opportunity to generate more revenue. Be sure to offer diverse payment methods like traditional credit and debit cards, digital wallets and buy now, pay later options. A successful online store consists of many moving parts. Sustainable growth in e-commerce relies on operational excellence, strategic customer engagement at every touchpoint, and the ability to adapt as the market evolves.
Infraredi’s million-dollar month (2023 Black Friday and Cyber Monday (BFCM) period).
Lyn Nguyen is the Founder and Operations Specialist at Auvie Consultants.
AUVIECONSULTANTS.COM
Driving Success in 2025 Insights to Empower Spa and Clinic Owners
As many spas and clinics know, data drives decisions. However, finding the time to analyse it and support your decision-making can be challenging when you’re juggling the demands of business and personal life.
That’s where Timely’s recent survey comes in. As a leading booking software provider, Timely has tapped into its base of 19,000 users to uncover valuable insights—not only to support your business decisions but also to reveal common challenges businesses are facing (you’re not alone) and the opportunities for growth in 2025.
The Power of Data: Key Insights for 2025
The survey findings illuminate the critical challenges our industry is facing, including time management, financial security, and client retention. However, the true insight lies in how this data can become a transformative tool for making more informed and strategic decisions in 2025.
One of the most striking findings revealed that 32% of salon owners identify time management as their greatest challenge. With appointments, staffing, and client communications all vying for attention, it’s no surprise that many feel overwhelmed. However, transitioning from traditional penand-paper bookings to advanced software solutions like Timely can be a game-changer. By automating booking systems, streamlining staff scheduling, and minimising manual administrative tasks, business owners can free up valuable time to focus on what truly matters: delivering exceptional client experiences and fostering business growth.
Embracing Technology
Embracing technology is one of the most impactful ways to tackle time management challenges. According to Timely’s survey, salon owners using online appointment systems are 14% more booked than those who rely on traditional methods. With 30% of bookings now made online, the shift toward digital convenience is far from a passing trend—it’s a strategic advantage for driving business growth.
By adopting automated systems, owners and managers can streamline operations by
eliminating back-and-forth communication with clients, reducing no-shows with automated SMS appointment reminders, and managing cancellations and deposits to maintain steady cash flow. This results in less time spent on the phone, fewer scheduling errors and disruptions, and a seamless, enhanced experience for clients.
Businesses leveraging online booking software can redirect their focus toward more meaningful priorities, such as customer engagement and business development. With features like faster payment processing and integrations with systems like Xero— automatically syncing invoices and payments— businesses can gain greater control over their cash flow, ensuring smoother operations and a stronger financial foundation.
Building Customer Loyalty: DataDriven Decisions for Retention
Another key insight from the survey was the emphasis on reputation and customer
loyalty. A notable 25% of salon owners identified reputation as their top priority, while 22% focused on retaining loyal clients. In a competitive market, these two factors are critical to a salon’s long-term success.
Tools like Timely’s integrated SMS and email reminders, along with automated follow-up messages, play a pivotal role in ensuring clients feel valued well beyond their appointment. From thank-you notes to aftercare instructions, this “set-and-forget” system keeps salons top-of-mind for clients. More importantly, it fosters trust—clients who feel appreciated are not only more likely to return but also to recommend the salon to others.
While a strong reputation can’t be manufactured, it can be nurtured and strengthened through consistent, thoughtful communication.
Amy Hembrow, Timely ANZ ambassador and owner of SSKIN Cosmetic and Skin Clinic, knows reputation in a competitive space is a key to success.
“As a clinic owner, we’ve had to think creatively to find and attract new clients. We’ve embraced the concept of delivering an entire experience—right from the moment clients step in the door, to the follow-up aftercare.”
Looking to 2025: The Year of Smarter Decisions
As we move into 2025, owners have the unique opportunity to harness the power of data to make smarter, more informed decisions. By analysing key insights—such as the popularity of services, staff performance, and client retention rates—business intelligence tools like Timely enable owners to refine their strategies, adapt to trends, and drive sustained growth.
Empowering Salon Owners
The challenges facing salon owners in 2025 are surmountable, with success hinging on the effective use of data and tools to make smarter, more informed decisions. By embracing automation, prioritising customer loyalty, and leveraging technology to streamline daily operations, business owners and manager can not only stay ahead of industry trends but also position themselves for lasting success.
SSKIN Cosmetic and Skin Clinic
Amy Hembrow and Emilee Hembrow, founders of SSKIN Cosmetic and Skin Clinic
Trend forecast for 2025
While some trends are
fleeting, others endure, and riding that wave
can sometimes lead to great success.
to
We spoke with three industry leaders
discover which trends are worth embracing in 2025.
Wellness with Lyndall Mitchell
Founder of Aurora Spa
The wellness industry is evolving, with 2025 set to be defined by four key trends: longevity, water wellness, and personalised retreats— all enhanced by AI and technology. Longevity takes centre stage, driven by biohacking and preventative medicine. High-tech clinics and wellness retreats are offering programs to optimise long-term health, combining fitness, nutrition, and medical wellness. Treatments like cryotherapy, infrared therapy, and hormone optimisation are mainstream, with leaders like Lanserhof blending traditional healing with cutting-edge science to promote vitality. AI is enhancing these efforts with personalised health assessments and treatments, optimising health on a molecular level.
Water wellness is gaining momentum, with wild swimming and communal bathing becoming popular. Community saunas and social bathhouses are trending among younger generations, seeking relaxation and social
connection. These water experiences foster wellness in both body and community. Personalised retreats are reshaping wellness tourism. Destinations now offer tailored wellness experiences, addressing specific needs like detox, fitness, or stress relief. AI is helping craft bespoke programs, analysing health data to deliver treatments that optimise well-being, ensuring each retreat is transformative.
These trends mark a shift toward personalised, community-focused wellness experiences, where technology and tradition work together to support individual and collective well-being. In 2025, the integration of AI, longevity-focused retreats, water wellness, and tailored experiences signals a new era of accessible, sustainable wellness that’s deeply connected to individual needs.
istockphoto.com/
Aleksandr Rybalko
Aesthetics with
Dr Parvin Khinda Founder of Kaya Cosmedica
As we move into 2025, the field of aesthetics continues to evolve in exciting and transformative ways. Patients today are seeking treatments that enhance their natural beauty and preserve individuality rather than dramatically altering their appearance.
In Australia, where sun exposure significantly accelerates skin ageing, there is a noticeable shift toward preventative treatments. Patients are embracing options like microneedling, lasers, biostimulators, and exosomes to maintain their skin and address its quality comprehensively. These proactive approaches reflect a broader awareness of environmental damage and the importance of intervening early to achieve long-term skin health.
The future of volumising treatments is particularly exciting. Traditional products are being replaced by advanced hybrid formulations, such as those incorporating calcium hydroxylapatite and PRP, which not only provide volume but also stimulate collagen for more natural, longer-lasting results.
Medi-aesthetics with Dr Kate Jameson
Founder of Youth Lab
The medical aesthetics industry is undergoing a transformative shift towards regenerative treatments that focus on prevention, stimulation, and renewal. As we lean into 2025, the emphasis is moving away from merely addressing the visible signs of ageing to a more holistic approach that harnesses the body’s innate ability to repair and rejuvenate.
Aesthetic Injectables with
Steven Liew
I’m also seeing a rise in combination therapies, where multiple modalities are used in a single session to achieve holistic facial rejuvenation. Areas like the hands, neck and décolletage, often overlooked, are finally receiving the attention they deserve as patients seek more comprehensive rejuvenation.
We’re entering a new era in aesthetics— one defined by precision, personalisation, and natural results. It’s an exciting time to be part of this ever-evolving field.
At the forefront of this evolution are biostimulating treatments such as Rejuran and Exosomes - two of which we have seen increase in interest across our Youth Lab clinics. Rejuran, a polynucleotidebased injectable, works at a cellular level to repair damaged skin and stimulate collagen production. It is particularly effective in enhancing skin texture, elasticity, and diminishing concerns such as the appearance of dark under-eyes and acne scars. Exosomes represent another breakthrough, derived from cutting-edge cell research. They are packed with growth factors and peptides that boost cellular communication, accelerate healing, and promote long-term skin rejuvenation.
The advancements we see in preventative aesthetics reflects a more nuanced understanding of ageing. Our clients are now prioritising the maintenance of skin health before damage occurs, shifting the narrative from “anti-ageing” to “ageing gracefully.” This approach delivers natural, subtle and sustainable results.
These treatments, combined with tailored skincare routines and lifestyle modifications, represent a new and exciting era of personalised and proactive medical aesthetics care.”
Founder of Shape Clinic
The injectables market in Australia is experiencing remarkable growth, projected to reach $12 billion USD by 2030.
Interestingly, this anticipated expansion coincides with a global shift away from traditional hyaluronic acid (HA) gel products over the past two years. This trend has been driven by the overuse of HA volumising products and misconceptions about their ability to provide a “facelifting” effect. As a result, many have faced distorted aesthetics, often referred to as the “overplump face,” leading to a recent backlash against these products.
While this “HA filler recession” may be devastating for some business owners, I believe is a recession we must have! This shift allows clinicians and patients to reevaluate the true benefits of HA gel in creating facial definition and recontouring, rather than merely focusing on the misunderstood lifting effects achieved through volumisation.
As demand for HA gel fillers declines, interest in bio-stimulators and bioregenerators is steadily increasing. However, confusion remains regarding the differences between these two categories.
Bio-stimulators like PLLA, calcium hydroxyapatite ( soon to be available: liquid polycaprolactone, PDLLA, hybrid HA & calcium hydroxyapatite) work by inducing subclinical inflammation to stimulate collagen (scar formation) and elastin production, thereby improving skin quality and addressing mild laxity. While effective, excessive use of bio-stimulators can lead to dense scarring and nodules, making a balanced approach essential.
In contrast, bio-regenerators enhance the extracellular matrix function to promote collagen and elastin production without the risk of scarring. Products like Polynucleotide and hybrid HA complex exemplify this comprehensive rejuvenation approach, offering subtle yet definitive natural-looking results that are longer-lasting.
For optimal outcomes, I advocate for a combination of bio-stimulators to address laxity, bio-regenerators for gradual long-term enhancement of tissue and skin quality, and strategic use of HA gel for structure and definition. This balanced and refined long term approach meets the growing demand for undetectable, refreshed results through wellplanned treatment strategies.
AEmpowering Clinics, Transforming Futures
How Laseraid is Leading the Charge in Flexible Device Solutions
t the heart of the thriving aesthetic industry is the need for innovative technology, reliable support, and a partner who truly understands the unique challenges clinics face. Laseraid has emerged as a trailblazer in this space, combining industry expertise, exceptional service, and a forward-thinking approach to empower clinics and practitioners across Australia and New Zealand.
Exceptional Technology and Unmatched Service
A key part of Laseraid’s success lies in its extensive portfolio of partnerships with leading brands such as Lumenis, Viol and Laseroptek. These collaborations ensure that clinics have access to cutting-edge devices designed to elevate their offerings and enhance their competitive edge in the market.
Flexible Plans for Every Need
Laseraid recognise that every clinic is unique, with its own aspirations, challenges, and operational needs. To meet these diverse requirements, they offer a variety of access options that empower clinics to access the latest technology in a way that works best for them with 3 flexible device plans.
The Subscribe Plan offers a commitment-free way to integrate premium devices into your services, ideal for clinics wanting flexibility without longterm agreements. With simple weekly payments, you can provide cutting-edge treatments without financial strain.
The Subscription to Own Plan combines flexibility and ownership, allowing you to enjoy subscription benefits while working toward full ownership. Predictable monthly payments help you manage finances and build equity in your equipment.
Or you can choose The Own Plan, which lets clinics purchase devices
outright, perfect for those making longterm investments.
Partnering for Success
Laseraid is committed to strong partnerships, collaborating with companies like The Skin Bar, Evolution Laser Clinics and Wesfarmers Medi Aesthetics group to introduce advanced devices like the Sylfirm X, resulting in exceptional outcomes. Their expertise and reputation are further highlighted by securing the contract to service Laser Clinic Group’s clinics, focusing on Candela device repairs and operational efficiency.
The Team Behind the Vision
Laseraid’s success is built on the strength, dedication, and expertise of its exceptional team, which has grown significantly over the past year. By onboarding outstanding talent across various departments, Laseraid has further solidified its commitment to innovation and growth, ensuring that its vision continues to flourish.
In this exclusive Q&A, the team shares their journey, insights, and what makes Laseraid a true game-changer for clinics across Australia and New Zealand.
Let’s start with the big one— what made you join the Laseraid team?
Holly: I’ve always been drawn to companies that empower their clients, and Laseraid does exactly that. What sealed the deal for me was their focus on building lasting partnerships and providing exceptional support. It’s more than just selling devices—it’s about helping clinics thrive.
Ashlee: I’d worked with Laseraid during my time at Lumenis and was really impressed by their business model. Clinics were no longer taking out huge loans or refinancing their homes just to purchase equipment—it was a solution the industry desperately needed.
From left to right: Laine Porter – Account Manager & Clinical Trainer (VIC, SA, TAS & WA), Ashlee Middleton – Commercial Sales Manager ANZ, Holly Westerweller – Area Sales Manager (NSW, ACT, QLD, NT), Richard New – CEO, Jessica Sluga – Area Sales Manager (VIC, SA, WA, TAS), Hiba Leondis – Training Manager ANZ, Nicole Dean – Account Manager & Clinical Trainer (NSW, ACT, QLD, NT)
Ashlee, what was important to you when rebuilding the Commercial Team at Laseraid?
It was important to build a team of exceptional, knowledgeable professionals who are well-respected within the industry. Each team member brings established relationships and deep industry connections, which is invaluable in our field. What truly sets us apart, though, is our customercentric mindset - we’re committed to understanding and meeting our clients’ unique needs.
Nicole, you have worked with a lot of brands in the Industry. How do you find the devices, such as SylfirmX and Laseroptek, compare to the other brands you have worked with?
The Sylfirm X and Laseroptek devices are outstanding in terms of both performance and versatility. Compared to other Microneedling RF devices I have worked with, Sylfirm X stands out for its precision and adaptability in treating a wide range of skin conditions with minimal discomfort and downtime. It offers advanced features like continuous wave and pulsed modes, which provide better control and flexibility for clinicians. Laseroptek, on the other hand, offers excellent efficacy and safety with its innovative q-switch and picosecond technologies, enabling faster and more effective treatments with superior results. Both the SylfirmX and the Laseroptek systems, in my experience, deliver consistent, highquality outcomes, making them great additions to any clinical practice.
try new devices or upgrade without significant financial commitments. With a three-month trial probation period, they pay a weekly rental fee that includes all subscription features such as training and servicing. If the device doesn’t meet their needs, they can return it with seven days’ notice.
What do you love most about working at Laseraid?
Jess: For me, it’s the relationships. I love getting to know clinic owners, understanding their goals, and being part of their journey to success. It’s so rewarding to see a clinic grow and know we played a part in that.
Hiba: I love watching clinics gain confidence through regular training. Seeing someone go from being nervous to completely comfortable using a device, is the best feeling.
Holly, Many of your customers that you advise are nurses, what advantages does being an RN yourself provide when discussing opportunities with your clients?
As an RN, I understand the challenges nurses face in aesthetic and medical fields. This experience allows me to offer tailored advice on how Laseraid’s devices can improve their practice and patient outcomes, building trust and fostering long-term relationships.
What makes Laseraid’s subscription plans a game-changer?
Jess: Many clinic owners value flexibility and support while starting or growing their businesses. Our subscription plan allows clients to
What role does Laseraid play in helping clinics stay competitive in a fast-evolving industry?
Hiba: Training is a huge part of this. We ensure that clinics not only have access to the best devices but also know how to use them effectively. Our tailored training programs empower the operator with the confidence and skills to deliver outstanding results, which helps them stand out in a competitive market.
Holly: I also think our approach to support makes a big difference. We’re not a typical supplier; we’re a partner. Regular check-ins, business advice, and the ability to upgrade devices as needed mean clinics always have what they need to stay ahead.
What excites you most about Laseraid’s future?
Richard: Our partnerships with leading brands and the new technologies we’re bringing to market. We’re constantly innovating, which keeps us ahead of the curve. I’m thrilled about the new technologies we’re bringing to market in 2025. Stay tuned—there’s more to come!
Laseraid also handles servicing. How does this support clinics?
Lainie: I think this is one of the most underrated aspects of what Laseraid do. Knowing they have regular and ongoing support from their account manager and service team gives clinics peace of mind. Find out more information at laseraid.com.au
Leading with Inclusivity, Individuality and Innovation
How Skin x Lulu prioritises empowerment and comfort over insecurity in treatment.
In a seemingly overcrowded market, standing out while staying true to your values can feel challenging. Creating a brand identity requires a clear vision of its purpose, values, and unique identity –something Jamal Ammar, founder of Skin x Lulu has nailed in his recent clinic expansion. We caught up with Jamal to understand how he set his new space apart.
What inspired you to create a space that prioritises inclusivity, and how does this shape the patient experience at Skin x Lulu?
I created Skin x Lulu to be a space where everyone feels welcome, no matter their age, gender, beliefs, or where they are on their aesthetic journey. For me, inclusivity means celebrating individuality and making sure every person feels respected and valued. This shapes everything we do, from the personalised treatments we offer to the way we interact with each patient. My goal has always been to create a safe and supportive environment where people can feel confident and empowered in their own skin.
Your focus on bespoke consultations and patient guidance sets you apart. Can you share how these elements at Skin x Lulu contribute to achieving long-term, sustainable results?
At Skin x Lulu, I believe that every patient deserves a personalised approach. That’s why I take the time to really understand their concerns, goals, and lifestyle during consultations. By creating tailored treatment plans and offering clear guidance, I help my patients feel confident about their decisions. It’s not just about achieving immediate results—it’s about helping them maintain their skin health and confidence for the long term. Building trust and empowering people with knowledge is what makes the results sustainable and impactful.
With your emphasis on addressing the senses, how does Skin x Lulu’s design and delivery of treatments create a welcoming and impactful experience for patients?
I envisioned Skin x Lulu as a bold yet welcoming space, where modern design meets thoughtful touches that engage all the senses. The clinic’s
neutral black-and-white colour palette creates a striking yet calming environment, appealing to a wide range of tastes while maintaining a clean, contemporary feel. We also rotate carefully selected scents throughout the clinic, adding an element of surprise and relaxation that complements the atmosphere. Every detail, from the design to the delivery of treatments, is intended to make patients feel cared for and confident. It’s not just about achieving results—it’s about providing an experience that feels as rejuvenating as it is impactful.
You’re introducing the new Cryomed Volnewmer device. How does it compare to other technologies like Thermage, and what benefits does it offer Skin x Lulu’s patients?
The Volnewmer, distributed by Cryomed, is a revolutionary device in skin tightening, rejuvenation, and volume enhancement. It combines precise energy delivery with advanced water cooling technology to provide unmatched patient comfort, something that sets it apart from other RF technologies on the market. The consistent cooling ensures the skin’s surface is protected while delivering high-energy pulses deep into the dermis, stimulating collagen and elastin production. This not only tightens the skin but also tones and enhances volume, resulting in a more youthful, contoured appearance. With its innovative design, Volnewmer ensures a smoother, more even treatment experience, allowing patients to achieve natural-looking results with minimal discomfort and downtime.
What do you hope patients take away from their journey at Skin x Lulu, and how do you ensure their treatment experience avoids focusing on insecurities?
I want every patient to leave Skin x Lulu feeling uplifted, confident, and more in touch with their own natural beauty. My focus is on enhancing what makes them unique, not trying to fit them into an unrealistic ideal. From the very first consultation, I listen closely to their goals and help them understand how the treatments can work to highlight their best features. The experience is centred around positivity and self-care, ensuring that each patient feels empowered and confident in their choices, without feeling pressured to address insecurities.
THREE TECHNOLOGIES IN ONE DEVICE FAT l MUSCLE l SKIN & CELLULITE
REACH UP TO 100,000 CONTRACTIONS PER SESSION
Biomimetic skincare
BWhat does it really mean with OmniDerm
iomimetics, also known as biomimicry, is the art of drawing inspiration from nature’s ingenuity to address human challenges. By studying and emulating the refined efficiency and elegance of biological systems, we unlock innovative solutions. The concept is straightforward: over millions of years, nature has perfected processes and designs with remarkable efficiency. By applying these principles, we discover solutions that are not only highly effective but also inherently sustainable.
Biomimetics in nature
One of the most well-known examples is Velcro, invented by Swiss engineer George de Mestral in the 1950s. After being frustrated by burrs sticking to his dog’s fur, he examined them closely and realised their structure could be mimicked to create a revolutionary fastening system. Velcro was the result—a simple yet ingenious biomimetic solution, mimicking nature’s hooks.
Another fascinating example is the architecture of the Eastgate Centre in Harare, Zimbabwe, designed by Mick Pearce. Inspired by termite mounds, which maintain a stable internal temperature despite drastic external fluctuations, Pearce mimicked the natural ventilation system of termite mounds. The result? A building that uses 90% less energy for cooling and heating than conventional buildings. Once again, nature held the answer—all we needed to do was emulate it.
Biomimetics in skincare
Skincare is a perfect candidate for this biomimetic approach. The first step to developing a truly effective skincare product must be to fully understand the structure, the functions and the inherent processes that make our skin work.
Biomimetic principles offer a path to more effective skincare solutions. Instead of relying on harsh treatments such as chemical peels or fruit acids that disrupt the skin’s natural balance, we can focus on supporting its innate processes. The skin naturally regulates
hydration, oil balance, and a slightly acidic pH, all finely tuned for optimal health. A biomimetic approach facilitates a healthy, balanced microbiome, which plays a crucial role in protecting the skin from external aggressors and maintaining its natural resilience.
Biomimetic products can also be used in conjunction with cosmeceuticals, creating an optimal environment for them to work effectively. By reducing sensitivity, redness, and inflammation, the biomimetic approach enhances the overall efficacy of cosmeceutical treatments while supporting the skin’s natural balance.
Herbal Peeling
That does not mean that we ignore prematurely ageing skin and other skin concerns. We believe these should be dealt with in a professional setting, with proven, safe and effective modalities. Short and sharp, so to speak. In our case, we rely on the proven method of herbal peeling for significant results with minimal trauma to the skin. This corrective treatment is then followed immediately by supportive balancing care that creates an optimal environment for the skin to complete its inherent repair processes.
The biomimetic approach to skincare emphasises supporting the hydro-lipidic barrier, natural moisture levels, and the epidermis’ renewal processes. By respecting the skin’s innate balance, it avoids the drawbacks of symptomatic treatments—such as adding water to dehydrated skin or stripping oils from acne-prone skin.
Skin harmony
Biomimetic skincare isn’t about forceful interventions like chemical peels, which aggressively dissolve proteins and disrupt natural processes. Instead, it’s about harmony—working in tandem with the skin’s evolved biology to restore and maintain health naturally. That’s why, since 1996, OmniDerm has championed biomimetic skincare as the ideal alternative to cosmeceuticals, offering a more skin-friendly and scientifically grounded approach. For more information, visit omniderm.com.au
Meet the formulatedclinically skin care illuminati: Saint Louve
WWe sat down with Melbourne-based registered nurse, clinic owner, and master formulator ELLY SEYMOUR to find out why her formulation cut through the noise.
ith decades of experience in the realm of skin health, Elly has dedicated her life to understanding the intricate language of the skin. Her journey, marked by relentless study and a passion for evidence-based formulation, culminated in the creation of Saint Louve— a cosmeceutical skincare brand that marries luxury with precision, and indulgence with efficacy. We sat down with Elly to get to know this break out brand!
Tell us about what inspired you to create your own skincare brand and what makes your brand stand out from others in the skincare industry?
Saint Louve was born from my passion for skincare and the desire to create products that combine luxury and efficacy. After years of searching for formulas that truly deliver results while offering a sensorial experience, I wanted to fill the gap for high-quality, sciencebacked skincare that feels indulgent yet was powerfully effective.
What sets Saint Louve apart is our commitment to quality, transparency, and clinically proven ingredients. Each product is formulated to not only enhance the skin’s appearance but also provide a moment of self-care, empowering individuals to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.
What was the first product you developed, and why did you start there?
I chose to create the four serums at once in early 2020. Interestingly, the 0.25% Encapsulated Retinol Serum was the first product to be finished because it quickly met our performance standards. Retinol is such a powerful ingredient for promoting skin renewal, and I knew it had to be our starting point. We wanted to create something that would deliver noticeable results while being gentle on the skin.
In contrast, the Vitamin B3, B5 & Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum took the longest — with up to 17 revisions to perfect. We were committed to getting the formulation just right to ensure it was both effective and a really enjoyable application, with no stickiness just a nice silking feel.
Can you describe the process of formulating your products?
The formulation process is a big one. This journey began with finding the right lab—one that shared our vision and could offer expert guidance. I spent many months trying to find one. Once we had
the right partner, we started by formulating the products on paper, selecting ingredients focused on efficacy, luxury, and data.
However, we quickly learned that what looks good on paper doesn’t always work in practice. As we moved into physical samples, we made numerous modifications to perfect textures, scents, and the overall sensory experience.
After 12 months of refining the formulations, we tested them through clinical trials with 30 participants to ensure effectiveness and satisfaction. This rigorous process ensured our products not only deliver results but are truly a pleasure to use, creating a skincare experience our customers can trust and fall in love with.
How did you decide on the ingredients or technologies used in your skincare line?
As a Registered Nurse, I was taught from the very beginning about the importance of evidence-based practice. This approach guided every decision I made when selecting ingredients for Saint Louve. I chose each ingredient with a specific purpose, ensuring there were no fillers or unnecessary components in our formulations.
The percentages of each ingredient were carefully determined based on clinical research and the findings from papers I had read. Additionally, I tested many of these formulations myself, ensuring they not only performed as expected but also delivered the best results for real-world use. This combination of science, clinical evidence, and personal experience shaped every product in our range, ensuring each one is both effective and intentional.
What are the future plans for the range?
Looking ahead, we’re excited about the continued growth and evolution of Saint Louve Skincare. In 2025, we will be expanding our range with four new products, each designed to complement and enhance our existing line. These additions reflect our ongoing commitment to providing effective, luxury skincare solutions for every skin type.
However, what we’re most excited about is our upcoming launch into medi-clinics starting in February 2025. This is a huge milestone for us, as it allows us to offer our premium, science-backed formulations to a wider audience and collaborate with leading professionals in the skincare industry. We can’t wait to help medi-clinics elevate their offerings and deliver the transformative results our products are known for.
A New Era in Microneedling
We spoke with DR ROB MCDONALD, Dermatologist, and CARLY HECKENDORF, RN, from Sky Blue Dermatology in Sydney to discover what makes this device truly stand out.
What patient needs led you to identify the necessity for a radio frequency microneedling device?
Dr Rob McDonald: Many of my patients at Sky Blue Dermatology are concerned about skin laxity and crepey skin, particularly on the neck and face. Historically, addressing these deeper structural changes required surgical intervention, but I wanted to offer a non-invasive solution that could stimulate collagen and elastin for improved skin quality. The Potenza provides the perfect balance, enabling precise, effective treatments with minimal downtime.
Why did you select the Potenza for Sky Blue Dermatology?
Dr Rob McDonald: Potenza stood out due to its advanced combination of radiofrequency and microneedling, offering unparalleled versatility. Its customisable features, such as adjustable needle depths and the choice between insulated and semi-insulated needles, allow for precise targeting of various skin layers. The device also offers mono and bipolar modes, which provide flexibility in treating both deeper and superficial skin concerns. Additionally, the minimal downtime associated with treatments makes it highly appealing for patients looking for effective yet convenient skin rejuvenation options.
What specific conditions or indications do you primarily address using the Potenza?
Carly Heckendorf: Face and neck textural skin issues are our primary indications for Potenza. It is highly effective for addressing fine lines, sagging, and crepey skin, particularly in the neck area. We also use it for certain types of scars that require collagen remodelling. Each patient receives a personalised treatment plan, which may include complementary options like pigment and vascular lasers or injectables to optimise results.
Can you talk us through how you use the features of the Potenza to customise treatments for your patients?
Carly Heckendorf: The Potenza offers mono and bipolar radiofrequency modes, which we utilise depending on the treatment goals and the area being addressed.
Monopolar mode delivers energy deeper into the dermis and is ideal for targeting deeper skin structures. We use this mode when treating areas with significant laxity, such as the neck, where deeper collagen stimulation is required for lifting and tightening.
Bipolar mode is more focused, targeting superficial layers of the skin. This mode is excellent for refining texture, reducing fine lines, and addressing more delicate areas like the periorbital region.
Additionally, with the Fusion (CP-21 or CP-25) tip, we can infuse tailored active ingredients directly into the skin during treatment, further enhancing
results and providing a truly bespoke approach to skin rejuvenation. The flexibility to switch between these modes, combined with adjustable needle depths and energy settings, allows us to tailor treatments precisely for each patient, ensuring optimal outcomes across various indications.
Can you talk to us about the variety of tips you use and how?
Carly Heckendorf: Potenza offers a range of tips that can be customised for different areas and concerns. The tips vary in the amount of insulation and number of needles. The Fusion tip allows effective delivery of active ingredients (up to 67% enhanced delivery*) into the skin. On the neck, I frequently use the S-tip, which delivers radiofrequency energy at two depths via its semi-insulated needles. This approach effectively stimulates collagen in both superficial and deeper layers, achieving a noticeable tightening effect. For other areas, I select tips based on the patient’s specific needs and treatment goals.
What have you observed in terms of downtime and patient outcomes?
Dr Rob McDonald: Most patients have a social downtime of less than 24 hours, although this can vary depending on the indication and treatment settings. Patients typically experience mild redness, swelling, and pinpoint bleeding that resolve within 1–3 days. The precision of the RF energy minimises damage to surrounding tissues, avoiding issues like bruising or scabbing.
What is the general patient feedback?
Dr Rob McDonald: Patients are thrilled with their results. They often comment on how natural and rejuvenated their skin looks and feel more confident after treatment. The minimal downtime and gradual improvements make Potenza a highly appealing option for non-invasive skin tightening and rejuvenation. cynosurelutronicanz.com
*Indication of soft tissue coagulation. Soft tissue coagulation results in regeneration of collagen and elastin. *67% topical penetration = Dr. Christine Dierickx Whitepaper: The Potenza Fusion Tip: Enhanced penetration of topical products.
A Journey of Excellence
Derma Aesthetics Celebrate 15 Years of Delivering Remarkable Skincare Results
Since 2010, Derma Aesthetics has established itself as a premier distributor and authority in advanced skincare education, setting the standard for excellence within the aesthetics and skin industry. Their portfolio features distinguished names; dermaviduals, dermaviduals deco, EXCEED Microneedling, MTS-Rollers and the more recently launched SIMKA range, which has quickly become one of the most sought after brands in the industry and underscoring their commitment to excellence in skincare solutions. We caught up with General Manager, Brittany Vescio to reflect on her journey and insights from the past 15 years.
• Marketing resources and strategies to help clinics grow their business.
• High-performance, science-backed solutions that enhance client satisfaction and loyalty.
• A collaborative approach that puts the success of our partners at the forefront of everything we do.
• Achievable and rewarding partnership incentives for clinics and therapists alike.
Congratulations on 15 years in business!
What inspired the founders (Simone Vescio and Reika Roberts) to start this company?
Thank you! Our journey began with a passion for professional skincare and a drive to challenge the status quo. Our founders recognised a gap in the market for truly bespoke skin health solutions that focused on repairing and protecting the skin barrier. This led them to dermaviduals, which became the foundation of our commitment to providing innovative, results-driven products and treatments. Over time, this vision expanded to include EXCEED Microneedling and now SIMKA.
What do you believe sets your brands apart in the professional skincare industry?
Each of our key brands brings something unique to the table and together they work in synergy:
• dermaviduals revolutionised skincare with its corneotherapeutic philosophy, offering customisable formulations that address individual skin concerns while prioritising barrier health.
• EXCEED Microneedling is the gold standard in microneedling technology with unmatched safety and efficacy, clinically proven to visibly reduce scars and normalise skin structure.
• SIMKA embodies clean, clinical and consciously formulated skincare rooted in the principles of Corneotherapy. SIMKA products support skin health holistically, from the inside out and outside in. Across all our brands, our dedication to education, innovation, and supporting our clinic partners has built a reputation for excellence.
What are some of the key benefits your brands offer to clinic partners?
Partnering with us means gaining more than just exceptional products – you gain a community and a wealth of support. We provide:
• Comprehensive training to empower clinicians with knowledge and confidence.
We focus on building trust with our partners, a strong industry reputation, and positive consumer brand awareness, which at Derma Aesthetics we believe can only be sustained with products that are all backed by science and world class education.
How has your company grown and evolved over the past 15 years?
From a single brand to a portfolio of five, our journey has been one of continuous evolution. Today, we proudly partner with over 1,040 clinics and continue to lead the way in industry advancements. Earlier in 2024, we were honoured to receive two Prevention Australia awards for the dermaviduals EGCG Liposomes Serum and SIMKA Bio-Cellulose Masks. Our commitment to education and innovation remains unwavering, and we take immense pride in the community of like-minded professionals we’ve built, united by a shared passion for skin health.
What’s next for your brands as you look ahead to the future?
The future is incredibly exciting for us. We’re exploring new technologies and product innovations to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in skincare. Most importantly, we’ll keep championing education and clinic success, ensuring our partnerships remain at the heart of everything we do.
Contact dermaviduals.com.au or simka.com
“Someone once wisely said that choosing your partner is one of the most important decisions in life. I can attest to the truth in this statement marked by the significant shift in career trajectory upon partnering with Derma Aesthetics 15 years ago. It’s not just the exceptional products and world class education they bring to our industry, it’s the team and leadership behind them. Derma Aesthetics have been a key partner in my business, providing exceptional products but also support, guidance, connection, and community that have helped shape my business growth and journey.” Robyn McAlpine – SkintifiX, Newcastle
TThe latest in exosome technology: UCX
The “all rounder” of regenerative medicine
ackling osteoarthritis, infertility, menopause reversal, skin rejuvenation, and hair regrowth, this groundbreaking exosome product is redefining what’s possible. Approved for topical use in Australia, its future is undeniably promising. We spoke with Dr Ian Chinsee, cofounder of UCX, to explore what makes this innovation a true game-changer.
Why is it called UCX and what makes it unique compared to other exosome products available in market?
UCX (Umbilical Cord Exosomes) stands out in the exosome market with its source: human umbilical cord plasma, a pristine, youthful material free from age-related markers. Rich in bioactive compounds, it delivers exceptional regenerative potential.
UCX ensures consistency and quality through ethical, standardised harvesting processes, minimising batch variability and genetic or epigenetic alterations by avoiding extensive cell culture. Naturally optimised with a rich array of bioactive molecules, UCX exosomes excel in supporting tissue repair and regeneration, making them a powerful and reliable solution for therapeutic applications in regenerative medicine.
Why is human umbilical cord plasma a preferred source for UCX, and how does it differ from exosomes derived from adipocytes or fat cells?
Human umbilical cord plasma serves as the optimal source for UCX production, offering a youthful bioactive profile packed with growth factors and cytokines that create a highly regenerative environment. Unlike adipocyte-derived exosomes, which can be influenced by the donor’s age and metabolic state, potentially reducing efficacy, umbilical cord plasma provides superior purity and safety.
Collected under stringent conditions, it ensures low immunogenicity and minimal contaminants, in contrast to the variability often associated with adipose tissue. UCX exosomes have demonstrated exceptional potential in wound healing, anti-ageing, and neuroprotection, surpassing the regenerative capabilities of adipocyte exosomes in therapeutic applications.
Can you explain how UCX is being used in regenerative medicine and the types of results you’ve seen overseas?
UCX has shown remarkable potential in regenerative medicine across a range of applications. In neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease, it has demonstrated the ability to reduce neuronal damage, while stroke patients have experienced significant motor function recovery following treatment.
UCX has proven highly effective in wound healing, accelerating both skin and nerve regeneration for faster recovery. In osteoarthritis, it has been associated with slowed disease progression and symptom relief. Clinically, patients report enhanced healing, reduced inflammation, and improved functional outcomes. These impressive results are supported by multiple studies validating UCX’s efficacy, solidifying its role as a powerful tool in modern regenerative treatments.
In Australia, exosomes are approved only for topical application. How does this impact the way UCX is utilised locally, particularly for skin rejuvenation and hair regrowth?
In Australia, exosomes, including UCX, are approved solely for topical applications, shaping their use in aesthetic treatments. UCX is commonly applied after procedures like microneedling to support skin rejuvenation, enhancing skin repair while improving texture, elasticity, and reducing fine lines.
It is also utilised in scalp treatments, often following microneedling, to stimulate hair follicles and promote hair regrowth. This regulatory framework ensures UCX’s use remains focused on non-invasive applications while still delivering significant regenerative benefits for skin and hair health.
Could you share insights into the treatment protocols developed for UCX and how they are being implemented by practitioners?
The UCX protocols have been developed in collaboration with other clinicians from Chile and China through controlled human trials as well as anecdotal research. Most of the injectable trial work has been done overseas, while the Australian protocols have been developed with regulation in mind and have been limited to topical applications. It has been very exciting to share results with the doctors overseas however and see how beneficial the product can be even without invasive techniques.
What’s in the future for UCX?
I will continue collaborating with doctors overseas to explore the full extent of UCX’s therapeutic potential. Currently, we are developing trials to assess its effectiveness in treating TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury, or ‘concussion syndrome’) and further investigating its applications in reproductive health and fertility treatments. Looking ahead, there is promising potential for exosomes in targeted cancer therapy, where tumours could be reduced or eradicated with minimal systemic complications, paving the way for innovative and precise treatment approaches.
For more information contact: info@regencellular.com.au.
The CareerChanging Impact of Owning a SILK Clinic
We spoke with ANNA CROSSINGHAM , owner of SILK Laser Clinics Charlestown, to learn how becoming a SILK franchisee transformed her professional journey.
Anna, what inspired your journey into the field of aesthetics, and how did it shape your career path?
My journey into aesthetics began with a passion for empowering confidence, though it wasn’t my original path. Growing up as a dancer, I developed creativity, discipline, and dedication—qualities that now shape my career. I initially pursued nursing and worked as a registered nurse, but something felt missing. While studying psychology to explore a new direction, I was offered a role as an aesthetic nurse. What started as a chance to try something new quickly became the perfect blend of clinical expertise, creativity, and understanding people’s needs.
I love discovering what clients truly need and creating ethical, personalised treatment plans that prioritise their well-being. This career combines creativity, fulfillment, and the chance to transform lives, perfectly blending my passions and skills.
What led you to become a SILK franchise partner, and how has the experience been so far?
I was initially hesitant about owning a business. As an aesthetic nurse, I worried that managing staff and running a clinic would pull me away from my passion for aesthetics. While I loved my role, I wanted more influence over the culture and environment of the clinic.
A turning point came when a close friend, who opened a SILK Laser Clinic, encouraged me to consider doing the same in Newcastle. She shared how SILK’s strong support system empowered her to succeed, making the idea more appealing.
What stood out to me was SILK’s approachable team, from leadership to support staff, providing confidence I’d have the guidance needed. Their system allows me to balance being a mum of three, a business owner, and doing what I love.
As a franchisee, how has the support provided by SILK allowed you to focus on your passion while they handle back-of-house and administrative tasks?
The aesthetics industry has evolved significantly since I began over a decade ago, especially with changing legislation. SILK’s head office support team provides me with immense reassurance, proactively staying ahead of these changes. Their clear guidance
ensures we remain compliant while exceeding required standards.
Beyond legislation, SILK offers invaluable support in payroll, marketing, training, IT, and more, allowing me to focus on delivering exceptional care to my clients. Unlike rigid franchise models, SILK values individual input and adapts to each clinic’s unique needs. This blend of structure, flexibility, and expert support has been instrumental in running a successful and professional clinic.
You’ve brought a manager into partnership with you— how has this decision impacted the way you run the clinic and allowed for more flexibility in your role?
Bringing a manager into partnership has been one of my best decisions, allowing me to focus on my passion for aesthetics while ensuring the clinic runs smoothly.
Having a manager who shares my values, work ethic, and vision has been invaluable. Her role as part-owner aligns our goals, and I trust her completely to manage the clinic with care and dedication.
SILK’s flexible franchise model made this partnership possible, creating balance and freedom to focus on what I love while maintaining confidence in the clinic’s success. It’s been a rewarding decision both professionally and personally.
For other nurses considering franchising with SILK, what advice would you offer, and how has this partnership contributed to your growth and success?
As a nurse, I never envisioned myself as a business owner within a large corporation—it felt daunting and beyond my reach. However, my journey with SILK has been transformative. What began with selfdoubt has grown into an incredible sense of accomplishment as I’ve developed both personally and professionally.
SILK’s supportive environment feels like family, celebrating my successes while challenging me to grow. Their operational support, particularly with compliance, has been invaluable, allowing me to focus on my passion while confidently managing a thriving business.
For nurses considering this path, SILK offers the tools, resources, and encouragement to succeed while staying true to the values that drew us to nursing. It’s been one of my most rewarding decisions.
How SQT Is Revolutionising Microneedling In Australia
Needle-free
and
offering the results of three to five treatments in a single session— here’s what makes SQT truly unique.
The aesthetics industry has always been a hub of innovation, yet it faces persistent challenges. Treatments promising transformative results that often underdeliver, involve significant downtime, and fail to cater to all skin types. It was in the midst of these challenges that SQT Bio-Microneedling was born—a revolutionary approach to skin rejuvenation that is changing the way clinics approach skincare treatments.
Founded by Renée Altakrity and Leyla Duraku, SQT BioMicroneedling Australia is the result of a relentless pursuit to present a treatment that delivers on its promises while being safe, versatile, and effective for every client, no matter their skin type.
The journey toward SQT began with a personal frustration. Both Renée and Leyla, driven by their own experiences with inadequate educational resources and unsatisfactory treatments, sought to forge a new path. They knew there had to be a way to deliver natural, yet transformative, results that would cater to every individual, regardless of skin type or condition. It was this quest for innovation, paired with an unwavering dedication to quality and safety, that led to the introduction of SQT BioMicroneedling in Australia.
What led to the discovery of SQT?
The discovery of SQT Bio-Microneedling was born out of a deep commitment to redefining skin rejuvenation. We recognised that the world of aesthetic treatments was cluttered with empty promises, leaving many patients and practitioners disillusioned by results that fell short of expectations. In this landscape, we saw an opportunity to create something extraordinary – a solution that not only addressed the most pressing challenges of today’s industry but also offered a safe and effective alternative to the conventional.
SQT Bio-Microneedling (pictured above) creates 3-5 million micro-channels in minutes, compared to 200,000 with traditional microneedling, maximising nutrient delivery and cellular renewal
At SQT, we’ve always been determined not to settle for the ordinary or the “good enough”. Our mission is clear: to source a revolutionary treatment that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of both clients and clinicians. Through meticulous research and a commitment to excellence, SQT Bio-Microneedling emerged as a breakthrough treatment that addresses the industry’s need for precision, versatility, and results that speak for themselves.
What makes this treatment protocol so unique?
The SQT protocol stands out for its scientifically advanced and holistic approach to skin rejuvenation, providing a safe and highly effective solution for a variety of skin types and concerns. At the heart of its innovation are microscopic biological needles, which stimulate cellular regeneration without harming the skin. This unique interaction delivers both immediate and long-lasting improvements.
What truly sets SQT apart is its ability to achieve transformative results while preserving the skin’s natural protective barrier. Unlike treatments that may compromise the acid mantle or disrupt skin integrity, SQT enhances the skin by tightening, hydrating, and softening it, leaving it supple and refreshed. This gentle yet powerful approach
ensures optimal results without the risk of infection or extended downtime, maintaining the skin’s delicate balance throughout the process.
Could you explain how the treatment is facilitated?
SQT Bio-Microneedling is carefully crafted to ensure that every client achieves their skin goals in the safest, most effective manner possible. Facilitating an SQT treatment begins with the foundation of thorough education and training. SQT provides training and certification to aesthetic clinics across Australia, ensuring that every provider is equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver exceptional results. Every SQT treatment is preceded by a comprehensive consultation with a qualified provider. This consultation is not just a formality—it’s a vital step in understanding the unique needs of the client. Through this process, our providers assess the client’s skin type, concerns, and goals, tailoring the treatment to ensure it is both safe and effective.
What downtime or sensations are felt following the treatment?
After an SQT Bio-Microneedling treatment, clients may experience a mild, temporary tingling sensation and warmth immediately following the procedure. This is completely normal and signals the treatment is stimulating the skin’s natural healing processes. In addition to this sensation, some mild erythema (redness) may occur, which typically fades within a few hours as the skin begins to settle.
The Spongilla Spicules, the core innovation behind SQT, remain embedded within the skin at the stratum basale/dermis layer for approximately 72 hours, depending on the therapist’s technique and pressure. During this time, the spicules continue to provide cell stimulation, fostering the rejuvenation process and enhancing the skin’s overall response. This sustained stimulation is one of the key factors that sets SQT apart, as it accelerates healing and skin regeneration in a shorter timeframe compared to other modalities.
Shedding of the skin typically begins around day three post-treatment and can last up to day six or seven, revealing smoother, fresher skin as the body naturally eliminates old skin cells. Despite this process, clients can return to their usual daily activities shortly after the treatment. However, it is crucial to avoid direct sun exposure during the healing phase to protect the skin and ensure optimal recovery.
One of the most remarkable aspects of SQT Bio-Microneedling is its accelerated cell turnover. Unlike other treatments, which can take up to 28 days for full cell renewal, SQT facilitates a faster regeneration process, completing cell turnover within just seven days. This not only results in
quicker visible improvements but also supports long-term skin health. Clients can look forward to a revitalised complexion in a fraction of the time.
What treatments can SQT be combined with?
SQT Bio-Microneedling is a versatile treatment that can be seamlessly paired with other aesthetic procedures, providing flexibility and customisation for clients. However, due to its remarkable efficacy, many of our clinics have found that SQT delivers such impressive results on its own that the need for additional modalities has diminished. The innovative nature of SQT often means that clients experience transformative skin rejuvenation without requiring the use of other treatments.
That said, for those seeking a more comprehensive approach, SQT can be used in conjunction with other treatments, provided they are spaced within appropriate time frames to ensure optimal healing and results. This allows practitioners to tailor a treatment plan that aligns with the individual needs and goals of each client. However, in practice, many therapists have transitioned away from using traditional microneedling devices, chemical peels, acid peels, and hydro/microdermabrasion machines. The superior outcomes provided by SQT have made these other treatments less necessary, as SQT offers an all-encompassing solution that addresses skin rejuvenation with exceptional precision and safety. Ultimately, while SQT can be paired with other treatments when appropriate, its groundbreaking approach to skin rejuvenation often allows it to stand alone as the cornerstone of a client’s treatment plan. Its ability to deliver natural, transformative results without the need for additional interventions makes SQT an ideal choice for those looking for an advanced, streamlined treatment option.
Find out more by visiting, sqtaustralia.com.au
Rima’s Testimonial:
I cannot express how transformative my experience with the SQT treatment has been! From the moment I started, I was amazed at how easy and straightforward the process was. Unlike traditional treatments, SQT requires minimal effort on my part, making it incredibly accessible for anyone looking to enhance their skin’s appearance.
One of my biggest concerns before starting any skin treatment was the risk of infection or adverse reactions. With SQT, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I didn’t have to worry about any of these issues. The treatment is designed to be safe for all skin types and colours, making it an inclusive option for everyone.
The results I’ve achieved with SQT are remarkable! I liken its effectiveness to that of an ablative laser treatment, but without the hefty price tag that often comes with such procedures. My skin has never looked better! All clients have noticed a significant improvement in texture and tone, wrinkles, plumping the acne scarring removal, hyper pigmentation removal just glass like skin, and how their friends are constantly asking what their secret is.
For anyone considering skin treatments, I wholeheartedly recommend SQT. It’s not just about the amazing results; it’s about the confidence that comes with having healthy, glowing skin. This is a revolutionary treatment and here to take over traditional skin resurfacing treatments. Rima, Illuminate Skin & Body
Injectable Nurses Expanding Horizons
Diversifying into skin treatments in response to advertising changes
Over the past year, the cosmetic industry has undergone significant changes, adapting to advertising restrictions and evolving regulations. With stricter rules rumoured to take effect this year, many cosmetic nurses have expanded into skin treatments to stay competitive. In response, suppliers have noticed a growing demand for skincare products and advanced technologies as nurses navigate these industry shifts. Suppliers have also observed a growing demand from nurses for skincare products and advanced technologies as they adapt to these industry shifts.
“We’re seeing a growing trend of nurses moving into private businesses, especially in skin treatments. Many are drawn to the flexibility of owning a business, balancing work with family commitments.
Most start with injectables, leveraging their expertise, and as their business grows, they invest in advanced devices and hire therapists to expand services. While some prefer to stay solo, those who scale often see significant returns. It’s exciting to see nurses innovating and shaping the industry!” – Ines Fernandez, Director of International Marketing for Venus
Registered Nurse April Dunn founder of Platinum by April stated, “I believe the rise in skin treatments has significantly increased due to the new AHPRA regulations coming into effect in 2024, which impose stricter limits on what can and cannot be posted on social media.”
“While it’s encouraging to see the cosmetic industry placing greater emphasis on skin quality, it’s essential for nurses to understand that this new area is about complementing their existing skills, not replacing them.”
In April’s experience, a combination approach of skin treatments and cosmetics is essential to patient care and delivering the most effective outcomes. This has been a key focus of her practice over the past seven years and continues to be a priority with the opening of her new location. While she encourages and understands why some nurses have diversified, she emphasises the importance of conducting thorough research and gaining extensive education before pivoting into this new area.
“Many advanced skin treatments, such as laser devices, come with significant financial investments, both in terms of equipment costs and ongoing maintenance. Nurses should carefully evaluate the potential return on investment, as well as the long-term visibility of these treatments in their clinic” says April. This approach helps to avoid the pitfalls of moving too quickly.
now on, I won’t commit to any new machines without a trial period to ensure their effectiveness and seamless integration into my clinic. These devices come with hefty price tags, so it’s crucial to make sure they provide real value to your clients in terms of demand and results before making a significant investment.”
It does take time to navigate all your options, but April assures you that the effort is well worth it. “The year I started incorporating medical-grade devices and focused on skin treatments was also the year my revenue saw its biggest growth. Having the right equipment, proper training, and introducing treatments that align with client demand not only drives business success but also leads to higher client satisfaction.”
Founder and cosmetic nurse Tahnee Raine shared that patients are increasingly looking for streamlined treatments that not only reduce wrinkles and add volume but also prioritise skin health. She believes nurses are uniquely positioned to meet this growing demand. “Changing consumer demands, driven by social media ideals, coupled with the restrictive advertising regulations around cosmetic treatments in Australia, and the growing preference for a more natural aesthetic, have led to a shift in patient focus toward skin health rather than relying on a single modality. And really, why wouldn’t we want to expand our knowledge and supplement our income in the process?”
She highlights that incorporating skin treatments into her clinic not only enhances the patient experience but also expands career opportunities and diversifies revenue streams for both sole practitioners and cosmetic medicine clinics.
Additionally, she explains, “Introducing skin treatments into the clinic can strengthen relationships with patients, allowing nurses to adopt a more preventative and restorative approach. By integrating treatments that complement cosmetic medicine, we can
While Tahnee Raine is primarily a cosmetic medicine provider, she has recently diversified into skin health with the addition of the Medilux LED by The Global Beauty Group and a successful partnership with
As the focus on skin health continues to grow, Tahnee highlights the organisations that are supporting the continued evolution of nurses in this field. “Training and certification programs such as Aesthetic and Skin Institute and Fresh Clinics are playing a vital role in equipping nurses with the recognised skills to safely and effectively deliver skin treatments while independently monitoring patient outcomes,” she explains.
“Looking back, I wish I had done more research and trial runs before diving into the many trends that flood the aesthetics industry. There are so many devices on the market, and it’s easy to be tempted by them (trust me, the reps are getting more persuasive!). From
While she runs a smaller clinic, this business model works well for now. However, with the cosmetic medicine industry projected to grow by nearly 20% annually until 2030, she acknowledges that this could redefine her business model and her role as a cosmetic nurse in the near future.
Tahnee Raine
100 Tips Thrivetoin 2025
In celebration of our 100th issue, we’ve curated 100 insights from esteemed businesses and brands across the aesthetics, spa, and wellness industries to inspire and empower you for the year ahead.
Marketing
1. Focus on Video-First Content: Stand out by creating unique, highquality video content that goes against the norm.
2. Show Authority Through Education: Trust is critical. Share educational content that demonstrates your clinic’s expertise, such as skincare tips or treatment explanations.
3. Embrace Founder or Employee-Led Content: Showcasing client experiences is valuable, but ads and content featuring your founder or team members often resonate better, building a personal connection.
4. Create a Seamless Digital Experience: According to Google, clients need (on average) 7 hours of engagement across 11 touchpoints before booking. Ensure your digital presence is cohesive, user-friendly, and consistent across platforms.
5. Go Beyond Selling: Loyal clients look for more than just treatments. Add value through educational Instagram posts, email tips, or exclusive client content to keep them engaged.
Recruitment
1. Prioritise cultural fit: Ensure new hires align with your company’s values and customer service standards to maintain a positive, cohesive team environment.
2. Offer competitive pay & perks: Attract top talent with competitive salaries, along with perks like complimentary treatments, access to industry events, or wellness benefits.
6. Enhance the In-Clinic Experience: Your marketing doesn’t stop at the door. Bring your digital brand into the clinic through touchpoints like treatment menus, personalised greetings, or unique in-room content.
7. Add Value Over Discounts: Avoid discounting and instead offer packages with low-cost add-ons to create the ultimate treatment experience while increasing your average order value.
8. Leverage Micro-Influencers: Partner with trusted local influencers to create authentic content that drives both awareness and bookings.
9. Personalise the Experience: Use client data to tailor communications, recommend treatments, and create a memorable, individualised journey.
10. Build Community Through Events: Host in-person or virtual events, like skincare workshops or VIP previews, to build client relationships, create buzz, and establish your clinic as a trusted authority.
3. Focus on soft skills: Look for candidates who excel in communication, empathy, and customer service—not just technical abilities. A friendly, approachable attitude goes a long way.
4. Invest in ongoing training: Keep your team ahead of industry trends by offering regular training, certifications, and access to the latest techniques and technologies.
5. Foster career development: Demonstrate opportunities for growth and advancement within your business to encourage long-term retention.
6. Provide flexible work options: Offering flexible hours or hybrid work options can help you attract and retain high-quality professionals seeking work-life balance.
7. Seek specialised skills and potential: Hire candidates with expertise in aesthetics or digital marketing, but also seek those with potential and a willingness to learn. With proper training, they can adapt and grow with your team.
Curated by Madelene Ragno, Founder of MADE Creative Co.
8. Build a strong employer brand: Share success stories, showcase your clinic’s culture, and highlight the benefits of working with you to attract top talent.
9. Collaborate with a specialised recruitment agency: Partner with agencies that understand the unique needs of the aesthetics, media, and spa industries. They can help you find the right candidates quickly and efficiently.
10. Look for long-term commitment: Hire candidates who are skilled and genuinely interested in a long-term career with your business. A loyal, committed team is essential for sustaining growth and delivering exceptional service.
Curated by The One Clinic Agency
Culture & Community
1. Be a coach, not a cheerleader: Care without accountability? Weak. Accountability without care? Terrifying. Real leaders balance both—helping their team grow while making it safe to push limits and aim higher.
2. One on one’s are non-negotiable: Do them frequently. Do them with preparation and do them with presence. Your one on one’s are there to help your team grow, identify obstacles and celebrate when they overcome them. Your job is to be a coach and don’t ever cancel.
3. Habits trumps motivation: Success is built on small, daily habits, not ra-ra type motivation. Motivation comes and goes. So whether it’s team huddles, client check-in’s or daily checklists, stick to routines that drive consistency.
4. Communication is key: Ditch the Facebook groups where important info gets lost on a sea of unorganised mess. Instead upgrade to apps like Slack and make sure everything is easy to find. Bonus point = allowing the team to turn notifications on according to their work time, so time off is ACTUALLY time off.
5. Celebrate progress, not just perfection: Shout out the small wins, recognise the efforts, and create an environment where every step forward is valued, not just the outcomes.
6. People first: Empowered teams = profitable businesses. Invest in your people and the numbers will follow.
7. Think tiny, win big: 1% improvements everyday leads to big results. Ask your team, “What can we do better today than we did yesterday?”
8. Make mistakes: More mistakes made = more innovation. Adapt retrospectives as a way to turn mistakes into valuable lessons.
9. Clarity is king: You can’t hold people accountable if they don’t know what’s expected. Culture guidelines. Job descriptions. Make sure everything’s clearly documented and understood.
10. Be curious: Ask better questions. Challenge the status quo. Explore new ideas. Curiosity is the antidote to assumptions. Assumptions = stagnation.
Curated by Gry, founder of HUD Skin and Body
Performance
1. Master your client journey: From online interactions to consultations and follow-ups, every touchpoint should feel seamless and personalised, fostering loyalty and referrals.
2. Embrace technology: Incorporate AI tools (compliantly with the Privacy Act) to streamline operations and elevate the client experience.
3. Focus on team training: Invest in continuous education for your team, including communication skills, to boost performance and client satisfaction.
4. Time block for growth: Dedicate weekly time to work on your business strategy, marketing, and performance metrics.
5. Build a brand: A strong brand gives you a competitive edge and establishes long-term credibility.
6. Set pricing with purpose: Avoid discounting traps and focus on value-driven promotions to maintain your premium reputation.
7. Offer treatment programs: Recurring revenue through tailored treatment programs and convenient payment plans can improve client retention and financial stability.
8. Enhance online presence: The client journey starts online. Show up consistently to build authentic connections with your audience.
9. Evaluate opportunity costs: Indecision stalls growth. Make fast, aligned decisions to prioritise long-term success.
10. Lead with confidence: Effective leadership sets the tone. Build a culture of trust, accountability, and high performance within your team.
Curated by Jade Start
Technology
Software
1. Embrace paperless records: Switching to digital records saves time, reduces errors, and enhances compliance. Ensure your software offers secure, easily accessible documentation.
2. Utilise online bookings: Offer clients the convenience of booking and rescheduling appointments online, improving their experience and saving you hours managing bookings.
3. Consolidate your software avoid juggling multiple systems: Choose an all-in-one solution like Aesthetic Nurse Software to streamline bookings, scripting, consent forms, and more, reducing time and frustration.
4. Choose industry-specific providers: Whether you’re a cosmetic injector, therapist or salon owner, find a software designed for your profession, ensuring the system prioritises new developments that evolves with your needs.
5. The power of automations: Automate reminders, follow-up messages, rebook reminders, and pre-appointment forms. These features save time, enhance client experience, and keep your schedule on track.
6. Leverage business insights: Use software that provides detailed reports on client demographic, treatment popularity and business performance to help you make informed decisions for growth.
7. Optimise email & SMS marketing: Engage clients with targeted email & SMS campaigns. Built-in marketing tools make it easy to send personalised offers and updates.
8. Simplify stock management: Track inventory with software that alerts you when it’s time to reorder, preventing overstocking and shortages.
9. Enhance compliance: Use software to stay compliant with AHPRA guidelines for record keeping, ensuring all patient information is accurately documented and securely stored.
10. Ensure data security: Protect sensitive patient data with end-to-end encryption, TSL security, and cloud storage. This safeguards records and ensures compliance with regulatory standards.
Curated by Aesthetic Nurse Software (ANS)
1. Expand beyond injectables: To stay ahead in 2025, offer more than just injectable treatments. Invest in energy-based devices and modalities that enhance overall skin quality, appealing to a broader range of client needs.
2. Understand market trends: The industry is shifting from volumising treatments toward achieving a natural aesthetic. Consumers are increasingly focused on improving skin texture and tone, highlighting the importance of treatments that support these goals.
3. Differentiate your clinic: While new injectable products introduced in Australia over the past 18 months offer exciting opportunities, investing in class-leading energy-based devices sets your clinic apart. These devices deliver transformative skin results that other clinics may not provide.
4. Strategic investments: Devices like the Cutera Excel V+ and Enlighten have been pivotal to our success. These tools not only address redness and pigmentation but also improve skin texture, expanding treatment possibilities.
5. Explore new markets: The Enlighten device has allowed us to enter the tattoo removal market, offering clients gold-standard results. This diversification broadens our services and client base.
6. Stay at the cutting edge: Devices like Cutera’s AviClear, a groundbreaking solution for mild to severe acne, improve both skin health and quality. Many clients report reduced acne and heightened confidence, demonstrating the emotional and physical benefits of advanced technology.
7. Smart device choices: Starting with a versatile platform device like the Cutera Xeo allows for gradual expansion as revenue grows. Adding modalities over time ensures scalability.
8. Launching new devices: Partner with a supportive company to successfully introduce new devices. Market collaboratively via social media and host a VIP launch night to generate excitement and early client adoption.
9. Key device criteria: A successful device consistently delivers results safely, with minimal discomfort, and is easy to operate, ensuring a solid return on investment.
10. Prioritise training: Comprehensive, ongoing, and readily available training should be provided by the device company. In-house training further supports staff development, ensuring consistent quality and expertise.
Curated by Dr Sean Arendse, founder of Flawless Rejuvenation
Finance
1. Avoid using mortgage equity for devices: Using your mortgage to buy equipment risks your home and isn’t tax-deductible. Opt for equipment financing instead.
2. Be strategic about early loan repayments: Paying off loans early may trigger penalties. Focus on clearing high-interest debt or reinvesting in growth.
3. Plan for a cushion in payments: Set aside 2-3 months of loan payments when purchasing new devices to reduce financial stress during early business growth.
4. Request a loan payment in arrears: Negotiate to make your first payment in arrears, giving you 30 extra days to generate revenue before the first instalment is due.
5. Budget for consumables: Factor in ongoing costs for maintenance and consumables when investing in high-end devices to avoid future financial strain.
Aesthetics
6. Maintain a strong credit score: Keeping your credit score above 500 boosts your chances of loan approval and better financing terms.
7. Offer subscription-based services: Introduce membership programs or treatment bundles with recurring payments to create predictable cash flow.
8. Invest in staff upskilling: Allocate resources for continuous staff training in emerging treatments and customer service, enhancing client satisfaction and loyalty.
9. Offer client financing: Partner with third-party financing providers or implement inhouse payment plans, making high-cost treatments more accessible.
10. Refinance existing debt: Regularly review loans or leases and refinance if better terms are available to lower interest rates or improve cash flow.
Curated by Quest Finance
1. Prioritise skin health: Quick fixes may grab attention, but long-term skin health earns trust. At Clinica Lase, we focus on sustainable results that align with our clients’ goals, and they value the difference.
2. Invest in advanced technology: Devices like Pico Genesis have revolutionised our results, addressing concerns like pigmentation and boosting collagen. The right tools inspire confidence and keep clients coming back.
3. Educate and empower: Knowledge builds trust. Transparent, unrushed consultations and informative social media content create engaged, confident clients who feel valued.
4. Commit to sustainability: Modern clients care about the planet. Small changes like eco-conscious products and waste reduction don’t just help the environment, they elevate your brand.
5. Personalise every experience: Generic treatments are out. Tailored plans drive client satisfaction, loyalty, and referrals. In 2025, personalisation isn’t optional - it’s essential.
6. Foster real connections: Loyalty grows from relationships, not transactions. Host events, listen deeply, and show genuine care. Strong connections build a thriving community.
7. Support your team: Happy teams create happy clients. Invest in training, nurture a positive culture, and watch your team shine - it reflects directly in the client experience.
8. Streamline your services: A focused treatment menu demonstrates expertise. Over time, we’ve found that excelling in fewer areas builds credibility and sets us apart.
9. Welcome men into the fold: Skincare isn’t just for women. By making skincare approachable and inclusive for men, we’ve tapped into a growing market with untapped potential.
10. Lead with inclusivity: From diverse skin tones to all genders and ages, inclusivity should guide everything you do. When people feel seen and welcome, they’ll become loyal advocates.
Curated by Crystal Patel, founder of Clinica Lase
Quest ROI Calculator
Wellness
1. Our team: Our team is the backbone of our business so their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing is our priority. We encourage our team to utilise our health services, empowering them to become authentic advocates for our business.
2. Our clients: We prioritise building authentic connections with our clients, taking the time to understand their needs so we can collaborate with them to achieve their wellness goals.
3. Our space: Creating a safe and inviting sanctuary for both our clients and team—a calming space that promotes self-care, allowing them to relax, rejuvenate, and momentarily escape the demands of daily life.
4. Our community: Connecting with our community means understanding the wellness needs of individuals, clubs, local businesses, and charities. We engage with them through social media, seasonal celebrations, and events, fostering meaningful relationships that support their well-being.
5. Our professional services: We offer a holistic, evidence-based approach to health and wellness, providing a range of complementary services. Our highly qualified, experienced, and approachable clinicians and instructors deliver exceptional care with professionalism and expertise.
6. Our equipment: We invest in state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure the best possible results for our clients.
7. Our backend systems: Having a sound and reliable practice management system to support growing needs and facilitate communication with our clients.
8. Our value adds: Offering products that enhance our services and add to our clients’ results and wellness experience.
9. Accessibility to services: We provide extended opening hours to accommodate varying schedules.
10. Smaller class sizes: We offer smaller class sizes, enabling our instructors to focus on individual client needs and deliver personalised support.
Curated by Dean Gunawardana, founder of Body First Health and Wellness.
Medical
1. Be authentic: Ensure your online content reflects your professional integrity. Highlight what sets you apart and build trust with patients through transparency.
2. Listen actively: Dedicate time in consultations to truly understand your patients’ concerns so you can provide focused, meaningful advice.
3. Stay educated: Stay informed on scientific literature to provide research-backed advice that patients trust over brochures or TikTok trends.
4. Say no when necessary: Politely decline treatments unlikely to meet patients’ expectations. Explaining your reasoning shows that you prioritise outcomes over profit. It’s also an opportunity to educate patients and build trust.
5. Create honest content: Write your own social media and website material that highlights realistic descriptions of treatment outcomes, including the risks, and the nitty gritty of the recovery process. Patients will trust genuine content much more than promotional material.
6. Use personal images: Replace stock photos with your own. Posting authentic images of yourself fosters a stronger connection with patients, making them more likely to book in to see you and to building rapport.
7. Customise treatment plans: Every patient is unique. Tailor your treatments to suit their anatomy, skin type, motivations, and budget.
8. Prioritise patient safety with ultrasound: Ultrasound is becoming essential for injectors, reducing risks and improving anatomical understanding. Patients will keep coming back if you make them feel safer.
9. Minimise downtime: Improve your injecting technique with the goal of lower bruising rates - patients appreciate every effort you make to give them a smoother recovery.
10. Think regenerative: With Regenerative Medicine in focus, attend conferences and read the literature, so that you can guide your patients to choose the safest and most effective methods to achieve biologically younger skin.
Curated by Dr Andrew Clark, founder of Mira Clinic
The Women Behind the PRO-AGE Movement: Redefining Beauty from the Inside Out
We spoke with TATIANA VORONTSOVA and GHOSH, the visionary co-founders of Pro-Age Aesthetics Academy, about their personal journeys, their mission to elevate holistic beauty education, and their impact on the future of noninvasive facial rejuvenation.
Tatiana, share with us your professional background and the reason you both established the Academy?
I spent my early career in a high-pressure corporate environment, juggling business and family life. On the outside I was thriving, but deep inside, I felt a quiet whisper—”There is more you can do.”
That calling led me to wellness. I earned a double diploma from the Massage Schools of Queensland and opened a wellness studio on the Gold Coast, focusing on women’s health and well-being. My passion for the mind-body connection led me to master a variety of holistic wellness techniques including facial rejuvenation. I trained internationally, collaborated with experts, and led professional education (CPE) events worldwide.
During one of these trainings in Europe, I met Uma Ghosh, a Dubaibased wellness entrepreneur and certified health coach. Our instant connection, shared vision for conscious ageing, and complementary skills and expertise became the foundation for PRO-AGE Aesthetics Academy, a UK-based, CPD-accredited institution.
Uma, what makes Pro-Age Aesthetics Academy unique?
From the very beginning it was clear to us that continuous professional education for beauty and wellness professionals was lacking the structure and depth that therapists were looking for. We knew that we needed to raise the standards. Creating a well-rounded curriculum rooted in the principles of a holistic approach to beauty and wellness was a labor of love and a reflection of our shared passion for the industry. Our students love the structured and digestible format, with access to a robust online platform that allows them to continue learning even after graduation. Over the last three years, we’ve trained the largest number of Australian therapists in buccal massage, proving that conscious beauty is the future.
Tatiana, why does this work matter so much to you?
I see every therapist we train as an ambassador of change. When we help beauty professionals redefine beauty for themselves, we empower them to shift the narrative for their clients.
The beauty industry has long been driven by superficial, temporary fixes. We are here to change that. Beauty is not about erasing wrinkles, it’s about alignment, authenticity, and self-care. Our work is not just about teaching a technique; it’s about leading a movement.
Uma, where do you see the future of holistic beauty?
The global beauty industry is shifting. We’re moving away from quick fixes and invasive treatments toward sustainable skincare and neurocosmetics, mindful self-care, somatic healing, and holistic facial rejuvenation techniques that support long-term well-being.
The future is not anti-ageing, it’s pro-ageing. It’s about honoring the natural ageing process while keeping the skin and body vibrant, healthy, and strong.
Tell us about the upcoming NEOLIFTING® course in Sydney, March 24-27, 2025.
NEOLIFTING® is not just another facelift technique—it’s a revolutionary, non-invasive approach to facial rejuvenation.
NEOLIFTING® treatment is rooted in fundamental understanding of anatomy, physiology, and the psycho-emotional connection between body and mind. It has been praised as “nature’s answer to anti-wrinkle treatments” because it lifts and sculpts the face naturally, promotes skin health without causing damage and creates lasting, meaningful transformations for clients – literally elevating them from inside out!
This course is designed for beauty professionals who want to master exclusive, in-demand facial massage technique that goes beyond surface-level aesthetics.
Final Thoughts
Tatiana: We created Pro-Age Aesthetics Academy because we believe beauty professionals deserve more than just techniques, they deserve knowledge, confidence, and the ability to make a real impact.
Uma: Beauty is about feeling good in your skin and embracing a lifestyle that supports longevity, vitality, and confidence. We are honored to be part of this movement and to continue empowering therapists worldwide.
proageaestheticsacademy.com
Introduction to the latest device to land in Australia –DoubleTite
Insights shared by DR YUMIKO KADOTA , Cosmetic Physician
Over the past 18 months, there has been increasing interest in treatments that support overall skin quality and texture. Advances in skincare and medical devices have expanded options for practitioners, including energy-based technologies like DoubleTite, which is approved by the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) for use in professional skin treatments.
Energy based devices are a major component of multi modal treatments, each with their perks and pitfalls. For the past three years, I’ve performed radiofrequency microneedling (RFMN) treatments as well as various mesotherapies as separate treatments.
DoubleTite’s innovative design features the RI13 microneedling tip, which is engineered to deliver targeted applications to different skin layers as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
DoubleTite offers practitioners a streamlined way to incorporate energy-based treatments into their clinical practice. Its monopolar RF technology directs energy away from the skin’s surface, a feature that may be particularly beneficial for practices serving diverse skin types.
One of the other things I considered carefully before upgrading my RF device was whether I wanted to use monopolar or bipolar energy. As a practice that sees Asian and darker skin types, mitigating the risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) was a significant factor in my decision-making process.
DoubleTite is a monopolar device, which means RF energy is directed away from the skin’s surface. While bipolar RF devices may offer other advantages, higher settings have been associated with PIH by way of pinand grid-marks in vulnerable skin types
Lastly, DoubleTite includes the Vertical Vibration Infusion Probe (VVIP), which enhances the treatment process. This handpiece complements the application of topical products as part of the treatment and is designed to offer a relaxing and soothing conclusion to the procedure.
DoubleTite is officially launching this March. beautytechnology.com.au
Always read the label and follow directions for use. Double Tite is a medical device included in the ARTG and is intended for use by registered health professionals in accordance with relevant regulations and professional guidelines. Treatment outcomes may vary between individuals.
The Injector vs. Owner Debate Who Takes The Higher Percentage Split?
JADE SPEHR , Founder of JadeStart, shares her expertise.
The aesthetics industry is experiencing a shift in revenuesharing models between clinic owners and injectors. In recent years, the percentage split for contractor injectors has risen due to industry growth and a thriving economy. However, even with the economic challenges post-COVID, the anticipated return to hiring injectors as employees has not materialised. This has sparked debate
on who should receive the higher split in a contractor arrangement.
Both clinic owners and injectors play vital roles in this partnership. While injectors, especially those with strong client relationships, often drive client loyalty, clinic owners bear the weight of infrastructure, brand establishment, and operational management. These intertwined roles make revenue-sharing a complex decision.
Flowchart for business owners courtesy
To incentivise retention and performance, many clinics offer commissions for injectors meeting client and sales targets, ensuring mutual benefit and growth.
The first step in determining revenue splits is understanding the nature of the injector-clinic owner relationship. As shown in the decision tree below, the risk profile changes depending on whether the injector is an employee or contractor, influencing compensation structures. A clear contract can help define each party’s responsibilities, avoiding potential disputes.
Clinic owners incur substantial costs in providing a professional, high-quality environment. This includes rent, utilities, marketing, equipment, compliance, and often training. These expenses, which may take up 30-40% of revenue, justify a substantial portion of the revenue split. A fair arrangement should consider these costs while still providing competitive compensation for injectors.
Injectors bring critical skills and often their own client base, making them indispensable to the clinic’s success. With industry regulations making it challenging to advertise certain services, skilled injectors with strong reputations become even more valuable.
A well-established injector with a strong personal brand may warrant a higher split, especially if they attract new clients to the clinic. However, when clinic owners assume most client acquisition responsibilities, they may retain a larger percentage of revenue.
With the rise of hybrid models, injectors often work across multiple clinics or maintain private practices. This flexibility can complicate revenue splits, requiring customised contracts. For example, an injector working at multiple locations might need a flexible split based on their client base within each clinic.
Ultimately, achieving an equitable split requires open, transparent negotiation. Both injectors and clinic owners contribute significant value, and by recognising each other’s roles, they can agree on a sustainable, fair structure.
Jade founded JadeStart in 2015 and has grown the company internationally to provide coaching for beauty and aesthetic businesses in fifteen countries around the world. Jade is a qualified lawyer, an undergraduate Accountant and worked for Price Waterhouse Coopers as a Manager, providing business coaching to multimillion and billion-dollar businesses.
of JadeStart.
About Time Relax to
STEPHANIE MCLEAN explores the luxurious bathing and spa offerings at About Time Bathhouse in Torquay.
Nestled within what is arguably the Surf Coast’s finest commercial property lies the new home of a contemporary Australian bathhouse – About Time. While the entrance is unassuming and exudes understated quiet luxury, this bathhouse and spa spans over 1,000 square meters, serving as a wellness haven with both indoor and outdoor facilities. This ingenious collaboration combines The Little Company’s renowned facials with the soothing touch and deep relaxation of Still Beauty, making this bathhouse a pioneer on the Torquay Surf Coast.
Since restarting my wellness journey in 2025, the gym has left me sore, and my skin is still recovering from the festive season, making this experience perfectly timed. Upon arriving at the space, I’m greeted by the lovely Rose who confirms what I’m in for – a restorative 90-minute bathing experience followed by a Ritual facial.
She leads me through a glass door separating the spa and bathing area from reception, down a softly toned hallway toward the bathrooms. Here, she explains that I’ll need to change into my bathers and take a shower before entering the mineral baths. Handing me a towel and directing me to a locker, she ensures I have everything I need to get ready.
She kindly waits while I change, ready to guide me on a tour of the bathhouse. Inside, a spacious indoor mineral bath with spa jets awaits, perfect for soothing tired muscles. For the more adventurous, there’s a cold plunge pool, ideal for those embracing the Wim Hof method. Additionally, a beautifully designed lounge area offers the perfect space to hydrate, relax, and unwind while overlooking the serene outdoor gardens and pools. Here, you’ll find chlorophyll water for detoxing, soothing tea, and sweet dates to round out the experience.
Stepping outside, the senses are embraced by the soothing aromas of burning palo santo, wood, and eucalyptus, fostering a deep sense of calm and connection with nature. These aromatic smoke points are thoughtfully placed around the outdoor pools, enhancing the atmosphere and creating a true escape from everyday life.
The outdoor area is thoughtfully designed, with hot therapies encircling a central cold plunge, allowing for a seamless transition between hot and cold. You can effortlessly move from a hot pool to a sauna and back again, creating a rejuvenating cycle. I begin by stepping into one
of the hot pools, sinking into the restorative waters up to my neck and allowing the soothing heat to work its magic on my stiff muscles. With closed eyes, the gentle sounds of rustling trees and singing birds create a serene atmosphere, evoking a sense of secluded privacy.
While the bathing experiences I’ve had on the Peninsula are quiet and introspective, this outdoor social bathing feels more like a community. Friendly locals strike up conversations, sharing how much they enjoy the space, discussing treatments they’ve tried, or reflecting on their wellness goals for 2025.
I’m told I can either ease into the cold pool or take the plunge—I choose the plunge, and what a rush it is! It’s noticeably colder than other plunges I’ve tried, which often warm up with use. Thanks to the cooling system, the temperature here is consistently maintained at 11 degrees for an invigorating experience. I then opt to warm up in the Finnish sauna and try out the steam room. I can say with absolute confidence that this steam room is one of the hottest I’ve
ever experienced. Speaking from my time as a spa therapist performing treatments in saunas for hours, this one truly stands out. I last just ten minutes before taking another cold plunge.
I then choose the sunny hot bath, a spacious pool that rivals—and perhaps even exceeds—the size of some backyard swimming pools. It’s perfect for hydrotherapy, allowing you to walk back and forth to ease sore muscles and promote relaxation. Lastly I head to the indoor spa, letting the jets ease the tension between my shoulders— much needed after overdoing it at the gym. Before my facial, I’m provided with a cozy robe and guided to the lounge area, where I can relax, rehydrate, and await my therapist. While waiting, I take the opportunity to browse some of the brands they stock. As a die-hard skincare enthusiast and former dermal therapist, I love discovering what everyone is using. A thoughtful combination of Sodashi, MV, Lesse, and Elementals perfectly balances The Little Company’s commitment to natural skincare with the practical needs of women navigating different seasons of life.
My lovely therapist greets me, and as it turns out, she’s a Steph too! She leads me to the treatment room, which feels like a cozy version of the viral Capri cave (IYKYK).
Soft tones, calming lighting and stone textures this space feels hidden from the world. After a quick consultation, she determines that my skin is craving a hefty dose of hydration and some gentle exfoliation.
The treatment begins much like a yoga class, with Steph guiding me through a calming meditation while applying gentle compressions across my body to ground me. It’s easy to relax with the soothing warmth of a heated eye pillow and the delicate scents of essential oils filling the room.
pectorals, the tops of the arms down to the elbows, and both sides of the neck—melting away any stress.
She then transitions to the face, intuitively massaging and focusing on tension points she can feel. For me, it’s around the jawline and behind the ears. This is followed by a soothing gua sha massage to further release built-up tension. Next, she applies a deeply hydrating mask before moving on to an incredible foot massage that feels like pure bliss. In all honesty, I started to drift off at this point. She then moved on to massage my arms, seamlessly flowing across the décolletage and underneath the shoulders, once again targeting the tender spots between the shoulder blades.
To finish, she gently massages behind the ears once more, while also focusing on the top of the head, leaving me feeling completely relaxed and rejuvenated. To gently awaken me, she spritzes the beautiful Shamana Aura and Atmosphere mist, enveloping me in its calming aroma.
If you’re looking to escape to the coast for some welldeserved R&R, I highly recommend this serene haven.
She begins by gently cleansing my eyes with a beautifully slow and deliberate touch, setting the tone for an utterly luxurious experience. Moving on to my décolletage, neck, and face, each stroke is intentionally slow and soothing, drawing my nervous system into a deep, tranquil state.
She follows with a skin analysis to confirm her treatment plan, then cleanses my skin with a hydrating cleanser, beginning the process of replenishing moisture and restoring balance in my skin. Her exfoliation, while granular is light and followed by a clay mask and delicious scalp massage. Removing this she moves onto the massage which seems to go on forever. Moving across the décolletage, she skilfully targets all the right tension points—the edges of the
How wellness businesses can cultivate a strong sense of community to keep clients coming back
GEORGIA CRAIG , owner of CorePlus Collingwood, shares her insights on fostering a strong sense of community.
Engaging with customers is often a daunting and uncomfortable task, but when done with authenticity and impact in mind, it’s the highlight of running a service-based business.
Having opened two fitness studios in the last four years, my coowners and I have learnt a lot about cultivating a strong community spirit that keeps clients coming back.
We opened CorePlus Fitzroy North around four years ago amidst the chaos of COVID-19. Launching a new studio during this time meant we had to engage with customers in a way that was new to us; with masks on, we couldn’t see smiles. With ever-changing capacity restrictions and health warnings, our communications were critical.
From this experience, we learnt about the importance of creating a feel-good space, where people felt safe and comfortable – an oasis from outside noise, more insulated than ever before.
This year we opened our second studio, CorePlus Collingwood, which was different again.
Post-pandemic, people work from home and tend to visit gyms on a casual basis through platforms like ClassPass (which we love). They also rely less on sponsored advertisements and online channels, which were incredibly popular back in 2020 when we spent more time connecting online.
Now, the focus is on word-of-mouth recommendations and most importantly, community. People want a space where they can exercise and connect with like-minded people. Having welcomed more than 23,000 people through our studio doors, here is what we have done to facilitate just that.
Give more
Whether it’s an email request or someone’s first time visiting the studio, we always overdeliver to ensure customers have a fuss-free and positive experience.
An example could be providing a complimentary towel in-studio, pausing a membership for as long as someone needs, actioning cancellations and refunds when other gyms would typically say no, as well as gifting first classes far and wide.
We feel our generosity strongly sets us apart, as it invites people to feel at home within our spaces.
Our monthly community classes are another example of how we
give back. The classes are free and shared with our database at the beginning of each month. We encourage people to bring their friends along and enjoy the magic of movement, no matter what their financial position may be.
Champion local businesses
Whether they’re in wellness, hospitality or another industry, we make a conscious effort to collaborate with our neighbours.
In some cases, this is sharing promotions and perks with our membership base. We also host teams for complimentary workplace sessions.
More recently, we ran a free ‘Move & Mingle’ event with local contributions for post-pilates fuel (think croissants and smoothies), goodie bags and a guided group activities. The event was a success, with many asking when we will run the next one!
Walk the walk
Even when they aren’t teaching, our team plays an active role in our studio by working up a sweat themselves.
Our members love it when our instructors join them for a class – it’s a taste of their own medicine (ha!). The authentic conversations that unfold during these classes are what build real relationships within our community.
As the co-owner of two Pilates studios, I’ve seen first-hand how like-minded friendships can form both within and outside of our classes. Nothing encourages connection and breaks down social walls like group exercise, so be sure to consider the ways you can leverage your inperson offerings to strengthen your community spirit.
core-plus.com/au/studios/ collingwood
Hotel Day Spa
The Secrets Behind Crown Spa Sydney’s Unique and Memorable Wellness Experiences
Drawing inspiration from the aqua hues and serene vistas of Sydney Harbour, Crown Spa Sydney has been carefully designed to offer an unparalleled and immersive wellness journey. The sophisticated interiors designed by Blainey North are an ode to the tranquil, surrounding bay waters featuring beautiful flowing forms and translucent, resin walls. It is, however, their innovative wellness solutions that secured the prestigious 2024 HM Award for ‘Hotel Day Spa.’
“We are absolutely thrilled that Crown Spa Sydney has been awarded the title of ‘Hotel Day Spa’ at the 2024 HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional wellness experiences and providing our guests with a true sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation,” said Crown Spa Supervisor, Antonia Sdoucopoulos.
“Being recognised alongside such outstanding talent is an incredible honour, and we are immensely proud of our dedicated team, whose passion and expertise have made this achievement possible.”
The spa distinguishes itself by drawing inspiration from the subconscious, offering wellness solutions that rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit. Its indulgent treatments showcase esteemed brand partners, including
La Prairie, Subtle Energies, and the newly introduced Knesko. The spa offers therapeutic massages, custom purifying facials and holistic wellness offerings. Each treatment has been carefully designed with the purest intentions to soothe and revitalise the mind, body and soul of even the weariest of travellers.
Enhancing their lineup of offerings, this summer marked the debut of their innovative poolside Knesko cart. Guests can now enjoy a gem-infused collagen face and eye masks while taking in the stunning views of Sydney Harbour or relaxing on an idyllic cabana or daybed.
Nestled among the poolside cabanas, the cart is conveniently wheeled around for guests’ ease and is available throughout the week, weather permitting. Prices for the poolside masks range from $23 for eye masks to $60 for face masks, which can be purchased directly from the cart.
Guests can further elevate their spa experience by adding a Knesko face mask treatment enhancement. These collageninfused masks are designed to deeply hydrate and restore the skin, offering a luxurious boost to any treatment.
With these unique and inspiring wellness initiatives in mind, how will you innovate to craft a truly memorable experience for your spa or clinic in 2025?
IFrom Elite Spas to Clinical Recovery
Why KNESKO is the Perfect Partner
n 2025, spa offerings are more advanced and comprehensive than ever. Spas are elevating the experience with cutting-edge bio-hacking protocols, integrative holistic wellness, and the latest in advanced skin procedures—often blending all three to set new industry standards.
Catering to evolving client expectations while maintaining profitability is a challenge. With customer acquisition costs on the rise, client retention becomes the priority—along with finding ways to increase their average spend. You want to offer something that not only enhances their experience and helps them de-stress during clinical treatments but also elevates your spa or clinic while supporting your bottom line.
You want to encourage clients to stay longer, return more often, and increase retail revenue—but finding the right approach isn’t always easy. Enhancements and upgrades sound appealing, but you don’t want to make clients feel like they’re constantly being upsold. So, what’s the solution?
KNESKO is BEAUTY with INTENTION
What KNESKO partners have to say:
Featured on the menus of elite 5-star resorts like Four Seasons, Wynn, and most recently Langham Sydney and Langham Melbourne, KNESKO is renowned as the Rolls-Royce of upgrades—delivering unparalleled quality and an exceptional spa experience.
KNESKO seamlessly blends science and spirituality, infusing each product with Reiki-charged, chakra-balancing gemstones to create a deeply calming experience. Designed to help clients connect to the present moment, KNESKO service enhancements bring tranquility to touchless activations and ease discomfort during advanced clinical treatments through a multi-sensory approach.
Vita Catanzariti , founder of Dolce Vita Skin in Erina, NSW, and partner of KNESKO since 2024 says, “Deciding to bring KNESKO on board was a shift towards the mind skin connection. Our vision is to have a multi-sensory experience combined with clinical treatments to complete the skin journey and boost health and well-being…. KNESKO aligns with our vision.”
Cool to the touch and energetically charged with high-frequency gemstones, KNESKO’s iconic masks and serums not only balance the Chakras but also uplift the spirit with positive intentions. This nontoxic, science-backed skincare encourages self-care in a way that feels both indulgent and transformative.
The brand’s two-step collagen enhancement—Mask followed by Serum—delivers deep hydration and targeted results without adding extra service time. This in-clinic treatment is further supported by a weekly homecare mask ritual and daily serum application, ensuring continued benefits beyond the spa.
Founded in 2012 by Lejla Cas, a highly trained beauty therapist from Perth, Australia, KNESKO was born from a desire to provide clients with more intentional self-care. Having worked with thousands of clients globally, Lejla recognised the need for a skincare ritual that was not only effective and luxurious but also deeply healing.
KNESKO is also a proud vendor partner at Cupid Lips® in Beverly Hills, founded by celebrity plastic surgeon Dr Ben Talei to enhance postprocedure recovery.
“KNESKO is the ideal partner to help us deliver personalised care, maintain skin health and beauty post-procedure, and elevate the patient experience from consultation to recovery,” says Dr Talei. “Its luxury packaging, celebrity following, and clinical efficacy make it a perfect retail addition to our treatment protocols.”
Tania Taylor, co-founder of BODHI Spas, famed for their award-winning holistic approach to spa therapies also celebrates their partnership with KNESKO, “A Reiki master herself, Lejla supercharges every KNESKO product with loving, healing, and balancing Reiki energy. Paired with BODHI skin and soul care therapies, this adds a unique new dimension to our spa offering.”
Elegant Implementation
With nearly 13 years of trust built through partnerships with the world’s most prestigious hospitality brands, KNESKO offers seamless, turn-key solutions for effortless spa integration.
From service enhancements and retail offerings to in-room hotel amenities, VIP gifting programs, and poolside mask carts, KNESKO provides versatile options to elevate your spa experience.
Their KNESKO Pro Portal offers education, leadership tools, and team incentives, ensuring continued success— backed by on-demand support from their expert team.
Email: info_aus@kneskoskin.com
Whole-Body Skincare
Discover Osmosis’s transformative approach to nurturing your skin, mind, and spirit.
Can health be condensed into a nutshell? Unlikely. Yet, many skincare brands attempt just that—telling us which ingredients we need and pushing the latest trends for glowing skin. In reality, true radiance reflects a healthy body, mind, and spirit—exactly what Osmosis Skin and Wellness products embrace.
Founded by Dr Ben Johnson, Osmosis is built upon a holistic vision, transforming skincare by shifting the focus away from excessive exfoliation and emphasising holistic strategies and detoxification. He believes the skin and body have an innate ability to heal themselves when given the right tools and freed from harmful influences.
This groundbreaking philosophy has earned Osmosis widespread acclaim in the beauty industry, delivering exceptional results and redefining the potential of skincare. What truly sets Osmosis apart is its unwavering respect for the body’s natural intelligence, fostering healing from within to achieve radiant, youthful, and healthy skin.
Two products that exemplify this philosophy are the Rejuvenating Body Crème and Emotional Wellbeing Elixir, offering innovative and effective solutions to timeless concerns.
As the connection between menopause and skincare takes center stage, our Osmosis Rejuvenating Body Crème addresses the hormonal changes that impact the skin. It helps combat dryness, itching, thinning, and atrophy—common issues that contribute to wrinkles, sagging, reduced vascularity, and slower wound healing.
Moisturising, healing, and protective, Osmosis Rejuvenating Body Crème is formulated with Chlorella and Niacinamide to support collagen production and maintain skin integrity. Enriched with multiple botanical emollients and humectants, it deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin, leaving it supple and radiant.
Free from Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Phthalates, Parabens, Gluten, Artificial Colors, and Fragrances, this crème is a clean, effective choice for promoting body and skin health. Lightly scented with uplifting orange and soothing ylang-ylang essential oils, it’s the perfect addition to your skincare routine.
Dr Will Guo at his clinic in Sydney
“I’ve been taking antidepressants for 7.5 years following the birth of my child, when I was diagnosed with post-natal depression. While the medication has kept me feeling relatively numb, I’ve experienced little happiness or genuine emotion during that time. Recently, on a friend’s recommendation, I visited an integrative GP—one who takes a holistic approach and focuses on addressing the root cause rather than just the symptoms. With a background in Medicine and Biochemistry, he offered a fresh perspective.
During that month, I decided to try the Emotional Wellbeing Elixir. Honestly, I was skeptical that it would make any difference, but I thought, why not? Within a week of using it, I found myself laughing uncontrollably—something I hadn’t done since I was 12 years old.
For the first time in years, I feel genuinely happy and calm. Laughing again feels strange but wonderful, and finding things funny again is such a welcome and refreshing emotion.” Says Sophie.
Expertly crafted and frequency-enhanced, our zinc-infused Osmosis Emotional Well-Being Elixir is designed to harmonise negative thought patterns and their impact on the body. It also works to restore a positive, feel-good vibration, supporting emotional balance and overall well-being.
In addition to its uplifting, feel-good vibration, the Osmosis Emotional Well-Being Elixir supports skin experiencing stress-induced flares while addressing emotional unrest. These treatment elixirs are infused with scientifically crafted frequencies to restore balance, relieve symptoms, strengthen the immune system, and reduce irritation, offering holistic support for both mind and body.
Reference: Zouboulis, C. C., Blume-Peytavi, U., Kosmadaki, M., Roó, E., Vexiau-Robert, D., Kerob, D., & Goldstein, S. R. (2022). Skin, hair and beyond: the impact of menopause. Climacteric, 25(5), 434–442. https://doi.org/10.1080/13697137.2022.2050206.
Ben Johnson
Trusted Skincare Partners
Why These Brands Align with The Skin Clinicians’ Commitment to Excellence
The Skin Clinicians has a distinctly French-inspired philosophy. Can you share how this “less is more” ethos influences your approach to treatments and client care?
Our approach prioritises healthy skin as the foundation for all treatments, using a carefully curated selection of advanced procedures. We integrate cutting-edge technologies with medical-grade therapies like mesoestetic’s cosmelan and dermamelan, while also incorporating Medik8 professional treatments. This synergy allows us to achieve elegant, natural-looking results that embody the French ethos of effortless beauty.
Your clinic offers treatments grounded in rigorous scientific research and state-of-the-art technology. How do you ensure your services stay at the forefront of innovation while delivering natural-looking results?
Our commitment to natural looking results and patient safety means we don’t adopt every new trend. We evaluate each treatment, device and product, often waiting for substantial evidence to become available before incorporating it in our practice. This means that we not only utilise state of the art technology but also aligns with our ethos of delivering subtle, evidence based treatments. Our patients trust that if we offer a treatment, it has undergone thorough vetting for both safety and efficacy.
You’ve been using Medik8 and mesoestetic for a long time. Why did you choose these brands initially and how have they grown with you?
Our partnership with mesoestetic began when we were looking for an effective topical depigmentation system, leading us to their cosmelan and dermamelan treatments. The exceptional results and comprehensive range of mesoestetic products quickly made it a favourite among our team and clients alike. Medik8 caught our attention with its high quality formulations, accessible price point, and commitment to sustainability. Both brands align with our clinic’s ethos of delivering natural looking results through advanced skincare science. Their ongoing research and development efforts have allowed us to stay at the forefront of aesthetic medicine, providing our clients with the most effective and ethically produced skincare solutions available.
What’s your favourite product and why?
One of our favourite products is mesoestetic’s hydracream fusion. This innovative cleanser transforms from a rich cream to a luxurious oil, dissolving makeup, impurities and sunscreen while maintaining essential hydration. It leaves your skin feeling nourished, soft, and perfectly balanced, making it suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and compromised skin. It’s rich in squalene, providing nourishment, without leaving an oily residue. Its bio-balancing action supports the skin barrier, while its anti-pollution properties help protect against environmental stressors.
Your team boasts a wide range of combined experience. What role does collaboration and expertise play in creating the treatment experiences you’re known for?
With a combined clinical experience spanning nearly 2 centuries, our clinicians bring a wealth of knowledge from diverse backgrounds, including surgery, neurology, critical care, plastics/aesthetics, dermatology, functional medicine, beauty/dermal therapy. Constant collaboration allows us to offer comprehensive treatments tailored to each client’s needs. Our deep understanding enables us to combine treatments, maximising potential outcomes and delivering truly transformative results. Our commitment to ongoing education and shared learning ensures that every team member stays at the forefront of industry advancements, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and clients benefit from a vast “brain bank” of knowledge and skills.
Karen Shirley, Owner and Principal Clinician theskinclinicians.com.au
Refining Wellness: How This Founder Went From Finance To Shaping the Future of Integrated Health
Blending science, technology and health.
As wellness evolves from a trend into a cornerstone of modern living — Anna Davies, Founder of Refined Wellness, is leading the charge in reshaping how Australians approach health and longevity. With a background in finance and a passion for science-backed innovation, she’s pioneering a more integrated, personalised approach to wellbeing — one that blends cutting-edge modalities with ancient practices to meet the growing demand for tailored health solutions.
What led to your interest in wellbeing, so much to start a business within and pivot from your background in finance?
Finance always felt like an expectation—an outcome of doing well in school, getting a good OP, excelling at university, and landing that “ideal” 9-to-5 job (which, in reality, was more like 8-to-7). Climbing the corporate ladder felt like a script I was following, but deep down, I knew it wasn’t the story I wanted to tell.
Don’t get me wrong, I’m a numbers girl at heart, but my true passion has always been health and wellbeing. It wasn’t until I experienced the heartbreak of losing two of the closest people to me that I realised how short life truly is. That loss sparked a pivotal moment where I decided to stop worrying about what others might think and to follow my heart.
At first, I envisioned achieving my goal by building my own wellness center. But as I delved into the global wellness industry, I realized just how much Australia was missing out on. Instead of opening a single center, I saw an opportunity to bring cutting-edge equipment to businesses nationwide—helping people create transformative spaces that support happier, healthier, and longer lives. That’s when I discovered Starpool, a global leader in wellness. I reached out, and one thing led to another. Today, I’m proud to be their exclusive Australian distributor, alongside other incredible modalities.
The journey hasn’t been easy. The first two to three years were incredibly tough—I struggled to sell even a single unit at times. It was my partner’s unwavering support and my belief in the vision of spreading wellness, recovery, and longevity that kept me going. Looking back now, I realise those challenges shaped me into the businesswoman I am today. Wellness isn’t just a business for me—it’s my way of contributing to something bigger.
What would be your modality of choice, and why?
It’s hard to choose just one modality from such an incredible lineup of partners. Every manufacturer I work with is backed by extensive clinical studies, and their products genuinely change lives. What excites me most is the ability to stack these modalities, combining them to address specific needs and enhance results.
For instance, in my line of work, I travel a lot. After a demanding trip, my recovery routine focuses on resetting. I start with ZeroBody to calm my parasympathetic nervous system, followed by BOA Lymphatic Drainage to reduce fluid retention and detoxify. Next, 30
minutes in the sauna promotes further detoxification, and ARRC LED therapy recharges cells at a molecular level. If it’s a morning session, I finish with cold therapy—Cryotherapy, ZeroBody Cryo, or a cold plunge—for cellular repair, reduced oxidative stress, and a dopamine boost to beat jetlag.
What I love most about these modalities is their versatility. Whether you have 20 minutes or three hours, they can be tailored to fit your schedule and needs, delivering undeniable physiological benefits that leave you rejuvenated and balanced.
Where do you see the health & wellness industry moving in the next 5-10 years?
This question excites me! Wellness, recovery, longevity, and biohacking—whatever you call it (though I’m not a fan of the word “wellness,” but that’s another conversation)—is still in its infancy, especially in Australia. Practices like saunas and ice baths, age-old traditions in other cultures, are only now gaining traction here.
Wellbeing can take many forms, from day spa experiences and recovery-focused gym programs to yoga, meditation, and biohacking canters. Even something as simple as a long walk in nature is one of the best ways to feel grounded. It’s all about finding a routine that resonates and makes you feel good.
On the science side, wellbeing is poised for transformation over the next 5–10 years. The concept of “biohacking,” popularised by Dave Asprey in 2015, revolutionised global wellness. Advances in technology and research now allow us to optimise physical and mental health in profound ways.
I’m currently reading Lifespan by David A. Sinclair, who reframes longevity by focusing on addressing the root causes of age-related conditions rather than treating symptoms. Concepts like reclassifying ageing as a condition and researching sirtuins, NAD, and TOR are helping us understand how to support long-term health.
Excitingly, advancements in biomarker testing provide deeper insights into individual health. At Refined Wellness, we leverage this to develop tailored protocols that enhance energy, resilience, and overall wellbeing.The future of health is about personalisation, integration, and science-backed solutions, and I’m thrilled to help people unlock their full potential as this field evolves.
refinedwellness.com.au
After 42 years of Skintrition, it’s about so much more than facials. Mum [Sandra] and I share a deep passion for nurturing our clients and exploring wellness and longevity. This journey allows us to curate a seamless blend of wellness and skin care, creating the ultimate experience for our clients.
The Zerobody Cryo is the perfect addition, offering convenience and maximum benefits for every client. We’re incredibly grateful to Anna Davies for her education, time, and effort in ensuring our client experience is nothing short of perfect.
– Steph Cannalonga, co-owner of Skintrition
Imagine Having Hair Removal Clients All Year Long?
It’s Possible with the Alma Soprano
Titanium SE!
This breakthrough means no more turning clients away due to sun exposure or skin type limitations—your clinic can now operate at full capacity every month of the year.
Why Year-Round Treatments Are Now Possible
The Alma Soprano Titanium SE is powered by advanced SHR (Super Hair Removal) technology and a unique blend of three laser wavelengths (755nm, 810nm, and 1064nm) working synergistically. This combination ensures treatments are safe, effective, and suitable for all skin tones (Fitzpatrick I–VI), including tanned skin. The SHR method gradually heats hair follicles, minimising the risks of burns or pigmentation issues.
Key Features Transforming Clinics
1. Safe for All Skin and Hair Types
With the ability to treat fair to dark skin, as well as fine or coarse hair, this device welcomes a broader client base. Clinics can confidently offer services to clients of any background without compromise.
2. Year-Round Profitability
Gone are the days of turning away clients during sunny months. The Alma Soprano Titanium SE allows you to maintain high revenue streams throughout the year.
3. Fast and Efficient Treatments
Thanks to its 4cm² spot size and patented In-Motion™ technology, treatments are faster than ever, enabling your clinic to see more clients in less time.
4. Unmatched Comfort with Ice Plus Cooling
The advanced cooling system ensures treatments remain virtually painless. The cooling technology maintains skin at a comfortable temperature throughout the procedure, creating a more enjoyable experience for clients.
Clinically Proven Excellence
The Soprano Titanium SE delivers a proven 85% mean hair reduction, with high client satisfaction rates (4.8/5).¹ Its ability to safely treat darker skin tones and tanned clients without adverse events underscores its credibility as a top-tier hair removal solution.
In a 2020 study, the device demonstrated significant hair reduction across skin tones, with no serious side effects reported. These results are a testament to its ability to deliver consistent outcomes, helping your clinic build trust and loyalty among clients.
• Deliver ROI While Elevating Client Experiences
• With the Alma Soprano Titanium SE, clinics can:
• Maximise revenue by treating a broader client demographic.
• Streamline operations with faster treatment times.
• Build client retention with virtually pain-free, effective sessions.
A Must-Have for Any Modern Clinic
The Alma Soprano Titanium SE isn’t just a device—it’s a game-changing investment. By offering safe, fast, and comfortable hair removal for all skin types, you’ll not only enhance your clinic’s reputation but also secure a steady year-round revenue stream.
Take your clinic’s hair removal offerings to the next level. Contact us today to learn how the Alma Soprano Titanium SE can redefine your services and expand your clientele. alma-lasers.com.au
1 Akerman, L., Galili, E., Lapidoth, M., & Levi, A. (2020). A combined triple-wavelength (755nm, 810nm, and 1064nm) laser device for hair removal: Efficacy and safety study. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 19(5), 515–518.
Aerolase: Pioneering the Future of Skin Wellness with a Visionary Rebrand
We sat down with SEAN JOHNSON , VP of Marketing for Aerolase, to explore the innovations, milestones, and bold rebranding set to reshape light-based skin treatments worldwide.
Innovative energy-based devices, a global presence in over 60 countries, and an exciting rebrand poised to redefine luxury in dermatology and aesthetics — Aerolase is quietly transforming the world of lightbased skin wellness. We caught up with Sean Johnson, VP of Marketing, to explore their international milestones, challenges, and the inspiration driving their evolution into an elevated, solutions-focused brand.
Q: Aerolase has become a global force in skin wellness. What defining moments and achievements have propelled you to the forefront, particularly when it comes to inclusivity for all skin types?
2024 was an extraordinary year for Aerolase. Our energy-based devices, the Neo Elite and Era Elite, have become synonymous with clinical excellence, transforming treatment outcomes for both practitioners and patients. This has allowed us to establish a presence in over 60 countries, a reflection of our commitment to making lightbased wellness accessible on a global scale.
One of the key achievements we’re most proud of is our ability to deliver exceptional results across all skin types and tones. Traditional energybased technologies have historically struggled with inclusivity, but Aerolase has redefined what’s possible. Devices like the Neo Elite offer safe, versatile, and highly effective solutions for concerns ranging from acne to anti-aging, regardless of skin tone. This inclusivity has been a game-changer for both practitioners and patients, enabling us to reach underserved demographics and elevate standards in dermatology and aesthetics.
We’re especially proud of initiatives like Healthy Energy for All Skin, which embodies our mission of inclusivity. By offering devices that deliver results with comfort, versatility, and minimal downtime, we’ve strengthened relationships within the dermatology and aesthetics community worldwide. It’s rewarding to see practitioners trust Aerolase to address such a wide spectrum of skin concerns—while catering to diverse patient needs on a global scale.
Q: As Aerolase continues to grow, where are you seeing the most exciting momentum?
We’re seeing remarkable momentum across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, India, and Australia. These regions have embraced Aerolase because of our ability to offer inclusive, non-invasive treatments that deliver real results.
In sun-drenched markets like Australia, practitioners appreciate the Neo Elite’s versatility for treating all skin tones without compromising safety or outcomes. In India, where dermatology concerns like hyperpigmentation and acne scars are prevalent, we’ve unlocked new opportunities by prioritizing inclusivity.
Meanwhile, in Europe, our presence at prestigious events such as IMCAS Paris and the EADV in Amsterdam has amplified awareness. Collaborating with key opinion leaders across Europe has further solidified Aerolase’s reputation as a game-changer for clinical and business growth alike.
Q: Revolutionizing global markets is no small feat. What challenges have you encountered, and how did Aerolase overcome them?
Education has been key. Aerolase is unique in that we’ve redefined what energy-based technology can achieve: safe, effective treatments for all skin types. However, introducing such a paradigm shift required targeted education initiatives and real-world demonstrations.
By partnering with trusted global opinion leaders and PR teams, we showcased the clinical impact of our devices while providing robust training and hands-on support. Logistically, we built a seamless operational framework to ensure customers worldwide receive the education, transparency, and care they need to feel confident using Aerolase technology.
Q: A rebrand is a bold move. What inspired Aerolase to embrace this transformation, and what does it mean for the brand’s future?
The rebrand represents a bold evolution. Aerolase is moving beyond simply being a technology provider—we’re redefining ourselves as a premium, solutions-driven brand that bridges innovation, inclusivity, and luxury.
Our future vision is about empowering practitioners with science-backed devices while delivering an elevated, sophisticated experience that builds trust with patients. The new brand identity will embody modern elegance and clinical excellence, aligning perfectly with Aerolase’s commitment to making skin wellness accessible to everyone.
Q: Aerolase has always stood for inclusivity and innovation. How does the new rebrand reflect those core values?
Inclusivity, innovation, and trust are at the heart of who we are. Our tagline, “Healthy Energy for All Skin,”encapsulates our commitment to addressing diverse skin concerns, tones, and types—a promise we’ve delivered on since day one.
The new brand identity balances luxury with impact: practitioners get cutting-edge, results-driven devices, while patients experience transformative treatments that build confidence. This evolution isn’t just a visual change; it’s a reflection of Aerolase’s mission to elevate the standard of care globally.
Q: Customers are at the heart of any great brand evolution. How did their feedback shape Aerolase’s rebrand?
Customer voices have been integral. Dermatologists, nurses, and clinicians consistently shared how Aerolase delivered unparalleled results but wanted that to shine through in our brand story. Patients, too, desired a brand identity that reflected the luxury and efficacy they experienced firsthand.
Through focus groups, surveys, and conversations, we fine-tuned every aspect of the rebrand—from visuals to messaging—to ensure it communicates trust, inclusivity, and results. This collaborative approach has allowed us to create a brand that not only resonates but inspires confidence in Aerolase as the gold standard in skin wellness.
Q: What key achievements and milestones will Aerolase spotlight as it steps into this exciting new chapter?
The rebrand celebrates our milestones—expanding into new markets, strengthening partnerships with global practitioners, and achieving exceptional clinical results with devices like the Neo Elite and Era Elite.
Most importantly, it’s about highlighting our commitment to practitioners and patients alike. The rebrand isn’t just a new look; it’s an opportunity to deepen relationships and redefine what’s possible in energy-based skin wellness.
The NEW Curas Hybrid: Advanced Q-Switched Laser
A Revolution in Aesthetic Treatments
The Curas Hybrid Q-Switched ND:Yag laser system is making a significant impact in the aesthetic industry, quickly establishing itself as a gamechanger for clinics seeking effective and versatile treatment options. This advanced 1064/532nm laser system, with optional 585nm and 660nm wavelengths, features exclusive modes that allow the pulse to be split 6 to 7 times through Active and Passive Q-Switching.
This innovative technology provides clinics with the versatility of a high-power Q-Switch laser, while its additional modes offer functionality comparable to a Picosecond device—without the hefty Pico price—all in one cost-effective solution.
To uncover its transformative potential, we spoke with two leading doctors who are leveraging the device to enhance patient outcomes and broaden their treatment offerings: Dr Tina Fang of ISO Skin Cancer and Laser Clinic, and Dr Dae Kwon of Plexus Medical and Cosmetic Clinic. Both have seamlessly integrated the Curas Hybrid into their busy practices, sharing valuable insights into why this laser is earning recognition for its advanced technology and impressive clinical results.
As the world’s first Nd:YAG laser that combines ACTIVE and PASSIVE Q-switching modes in a single platform, the Curas Hybrid is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for lasers. With dual wavelengths of 1064nm and 532nm, this laser offers unparalleled precision in treating a broad spectrum of skin concerns.
4 Wavelengths for Targeted Precision
The 1064nm wavelength is particularly effective at targeting dermal pigmented lesions, while the 532nm wavelength focuses on superficial pigmentation. The Curas Hybrid’s dual wavelengths allow clinicians to address multiple skin concerns in one treatment, making it an ideal solution for busy clinics looking to maximise their treatment offerings.
Dr Dae Kwon, founder of Plexus Medical and Cosmetic Clinic, agrees. “What initially attracted me to the Curas Hybrid was its innovative technology. The device integrates multiple energy delivery systems - something unique compared to other Q-switch lasers. Its ability to deliver energy at either fixed intervals or gradually increasing intervals stood out as a game-changer for treating various types of lesions.”
This adaptability is especially valuable in treating melasma, sunspots, age spots, and hyperpigmentation, which are commonly seen in both of their practices. Dr Kwon highlights how the laser’s precision and flexibility allow for more delicate treatment of challenging pigmentation issues, making it a great fit for patients with sensitive skin.
Innovative Handpieces for Tailored Treatments
Dr Tina Fang explains, “The versatility and innovative design of the Curas Hybrid immediately stood out. Its multiwavelength technology and ability to customise treatment settings for individual skin concerns were major advantages. Additionally, its safety features and minimal downtime perfectly align with our clinic’s philosophy of delivering effective yet comfortable treatments.”
One of the key features that sets the Curas Hybrid apart is its range of handpieces, each designed to deliver highly targeted energy. These handpieces are ideal for customising treatments based on specific patient needs.
• The Zoom Collimation Handpiece can be adjusted from 2mm to 10mm, allowing for energy transmission over longer distances. This is ideal for treating epidermal and dermal pigmentation.
• The Zoom-MLA Handpiece features 85 dots and can transmit focused energy to specific skin layers, making it perfect for addressing scars, melasma, and skin rejuvenation.
• The DOE Handpiece delivers uniform energy across 48 spots, targeting skin in a more controlled manner for thermal effect treatments.
Dr Kwon notes the impact these handpieces have had in his clinic. “The three interchangeable handpieces have been a perfect match for our needs. We use the device for pigmentation issues, scars, acne, and general skin rejuvenation. The flexibility is a huge advantage, enabling us to customise treatments for each patient.”
Exclusive Treatment Modes for Optimal Results
Another standout feature of the Curas Hybrid is its exclusive treatment modes, designed to enhance its ability to target a variety of skin concerns with minimal discomfort.
• 1064 A6: Six pulses at 150μs for melasma treatments, making it effective for deeper pigmentation.
have minimal downtime but still deliver exceptional results,” says Dr Fang. “The Curas Hybrid has been an excellent tool for us in that regard. Patients particularly appreciate how well the treatments are tolerated, even for those with sensitive skin.”
Ease of Use and Customisable Protocols
A notable feature of the Curas Hybrid is its user-friendly interface. With the ability to store over 100 custom protocols, the device enables clinicians to easily tailor treatments to suit individual patient needs. For practices like Plexus Medical and Cosmetic Clinic, this level of customisation is a major advantage.
• 1064 P: Gradually increasing pulse intervals, ideal for thermal effect treatments with minimal risk of skin irritation.
• 1532 K6: Delivers six pulses at 532nm wavelength, perfect for targeting superficial pigmented regions.
For Dr Fang, the DOE protocol has been particularly effective for treating melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. “The DOE protocol is gentle and effective, and we’ve seen excellent results in treating pigmentation concerns,” she explains.
A Versatile, All-in-One Solution
“We’ve been impressed with how easy it is to adjust the settings and tailor treatments,” says Dr Kwon. “The device is not only effective but also userfriendly, which makes it ideal for both new users and experienced practitioners.”
Safety and Energy Stability
The Curas Hybrid is designed to be safe and effective, with a focus on minimising damage to surrounding tissue. Its energy stability and optimal beam profile ensure that thermal energy is delivered evenly, allowing for long treatment times with consistent results. This is particularly important in minimising the risk of side effects, especially when treating sensitive areas or patients with darker skin types.
In addition to its effectiveness in treating pigmentation, it’s also highly effective in addressing other common skin issues:
• Skin Rejuvenation: By stimulating collagen production, the Curas Hybrid helps improve skin texture and firmness, with visible results often seen after just a single treatment.
• Non-Ablative Resurfacing: This laser provides soft peeling, improving skin tone and texture without downtime.
• Tattoo Removal: The 532nm (585 & 660nm) wavelength is highly effective for breaking down tattoo ink.
• Acne Scars: Both doctors have found the laser’s settings ideal for treating acne scars and skin texture issues.
• Onychomycosis: Effective in the treatment of fungal nail infections. Having launch Curas Hybrid only a few months ago within his clinic, Dr Kwon has received impressive feedback from clients. “The results have been outstanding,” he says. “Both my patients and I have been pleasantly surprised by the strength and effectiveness of the treatments, all while ensuring minimal recovery time.”
Client Satisfaction and Fast Recovery
The goal is to achieve exceptional results without extended downtime—something the Curas Hybrid excels at delivering. Both doctors have reported high patient satisfaction, especially in cases where clients are looking for quick, effective treatments that fit into their busy schedules.
“At our clinic, we pride ourselves on offering treatments that
Dr Fang adds, “The Curas Hybrid is a perfect fit for our clinic because it emphasises patient safety while delivering impressive results. We’ve seen great outcomes, particularly in treating patients with higher Fitzpatrick skin types, who can sometimes be more challenging to treat.”
Investing in the Future of Aesthetics
For both Dr Fang and Dr Kwon, the Curas Hybrid has become an essential part of their treatment arsenal. “We’re already seeing great results. The device is comfortable for daily use, and the results speak for themselves” says Dr Kwon.
Dr Fang agrees, noting that the Curas Hybrid has not only boosted client satisfaction but also helped to elevate the clinic’s offerings. “The Curas Hybrid has significantly enhanced our treatment options and has been a wonderful addition to our practice. It’s a great example of how cutting-edge technology can provide superior results and build trust with patients.”
The Curas Hybrid is reshaping the way aesthetic professionals approach a wide range of skin concerns. With its innovative dualwavelength technology, user-friendly interface, and versatile treatment modes, this device offers a powerful, safe, and highly effective solution for clinics of all sizes. Whether you’re targeting pigmentation, skin rejuvenation, or acne scars, the Curas Hybrid is rapidly becoming a must-have for any modern aesthetic practice.
For more information on Curas Hybrid contact Cryomed Aesthetics 1300 346 448 or cryomed.com.au
Dr Tina Fang, ISO Skin Cancer and Laser Clinic
Dr Dae Kwon, Plexus Medical and Cosmetic Clinic
Evolus We Invite You To Evolve The Future Of Beauty
We’re different. Here’s how
Who We Are
Evolus (Nasdaq: EOLS) is an emerging global performance beauty company with a customer-centric approach to delivering breakthrough products. The company’s purpose is to bring innovation and forward-thinking technology to the aesthetic market.
Headquartered in Newport Beach, Calif., Evolus has opened a new business in Australia. We are delighted to be here.
Our story
“We’re thrilled to be kick-starting business in Australia,” says Daniel Henry, General Manager for Evolus Australia.
“We intend to support our healthcare professional customers as they evolve their practices. We’ll be introducing exceptional sales and customer service alongside innovative educational programs, all supported by a user-friendly online platform to enhance your experience. We invite you to evolve the future of beauty with us.”
A Performance Beauty leader
From the get-go, we wanted Evolus to be different. We describe ourselves as a Performance Beauty company, taking learnings from the beauty sector and applying this to precision aesthetics. The beauty sector is great at capturing trends, understanding what consumers want and creating desirable experiences. The healthcare sector is great at developing innovative treatments that perform.
Today, this category is booming. Many people, across the generations, view beauty treatments as a part of daily life. This can be especially true for those with a millennial mindset who are visiting clinics and fuelling the boom.
What makes us stand out?
Since our foundation, we have focused exclusively on aesthetics. This means we live and breathe beauty whilst also being a pharmaceutical company.
What do we stand for?
We are a small start-up with a big vision. Our culture is designed around these four values.
We’ll never shy away from tackling the tough stuff. We let passion and perseverance drive us forward to create a company and experience like no other.
As a team, we move quickly but also have time and space to listen so we can create bold, innovative ideas.
If you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. This is a mantra we live and breathe.
At Evolus, we’re clear, open and honestwith each other and with our customers. It’s better this way.
Headquartered in California
From our global corporate headquarters in Newport Beach, we have been growing since 2012. We have more than 300 associates with some amazing skills – from R&D experts to digital engineers and sales and marketing gurus, one thing unites us: we love being disruptive!
Expanding around the world
As a company, we are flourishing. We are excited to expand our operations outside of North America.
We are already in Great Britain, Germany and Austria, Italy, Ireland and Spain. And now we are launching in Australia. For us, this is a significant step to becoming a leading, global, multi-product performance beauty company.
Some of our newest recruits are in Australia
We are super excited to introduce our new Australian team. Headed up by Daniel Henry, we have assembled a stellar cast of Evolusionaries.
Introducing the Evolus Australia team (drum roll, please):
Evolve with us.
We want to hear from the aesthetics community in Australia about the trends you are seeing and how your business is evolving. We look forward to partnering with you as we launch a different type of company. Don’t stand still, evolve with us.
If you are an Australian healthcare professional, get curious and join our community. Visit evolus.com.au to find out more.
Daniel Henry, our Australian General Manager, and off grid adventurer
Jessie Zhou Medical Affairs Clinician and a full time fun-lover
Hayley Sadeghi, Customer Experience Representative. Dances like no one is watching
Eric Poirier, Multi-Channel Manager for Queensland. Likes to think that your potential lives beyond the boundaries
Emma Tod Key Account Champion, world record holder & former GB Para Rower
Maria Estasy, Medical Affairs Clinicians and go-to-expert for all things clinical
Maria Prosperi-Porta, Multi-Channel Manager for Victoria, our pocket rocket
Julie Shannon, Multi-Channel Manager for New South Wales, strong & sweet just like her coffee
Evolus Australia Pty Ltd. North Sydney, NSW Feb 2025 AU-NP-2500003
The Versatility of Tetra PRO CO2
From Rejuvenation to Scar Revision with DR DAVIN LIM , of Cutis Clinic.
You have used many devices prior to the Tetra PRO CO2 laser, what sets this laser apart?
Having tested and acquired numerous CO₂ laser systems, Deka has created an outstanding device that combines the best beam profile with superior power, user-friendly design and reliability. CO₂ lasers are incredibly versatile energy devices, but not all are created equal. The Tetra PRO by Deka stands out by catering to both novice practitioners and seasoned
“What truly sets Tetra PRO apart is its advanced pulse structure, which directly impacts downtime, efficacy, and overall treatment outcomes...”
specialists. It offers a gentle yet effective light resurfacing treatment suitable for nurses and therapists, while also having the power to deliver deep resurfacing and remodeling when needed. What truly sets Tetra PRO apart is its advanced pulse structure, which directly impacts downtime, efficacy, and overall treatment outcomes, making it one of the most adaptable CO₂ lasers available.
CoolPeelTM is highlighted as a fast and minimally invasive option for skin resurfacing. How do you see this treatment transforming patient expectation around downtime and results?
The CoolPeelTM is Deka’s novel light resurfacing treatment that can deliver outstanding results whilst minimising downtime. The key to CoolPeelTM
Before and after’s courtesy of the nursing team of Alison Webb, Lara Munns and Katie Matthew at Cutis Clinic.
is the way Deka delivers the laser energy. Tetra PRO has the capability to create a laser pulse structure that minimises thermal load, hence reducing downtime, pain and side effects whilst optimising results. CoolPeelTM can be used as a standalone treatment or combined with topicals such as retinoids, growth factors, exosomes and pigment correctors. In this mode, a series of 2-4 sessions, spaced 3-6 weeks apart, provides the best clinical outcomes. It’s a game-changing results driven low-downtime procedure.
Can you share your experience with SmartStack function? How has it influenced treatment precision and patient recovery times in your practice?
If you’re familiar with ablative lasers, you’ve likely come across the concept of “stacking,” which involves delivering multiple pulses on top of each other. The goal of stacking is to create a deeper, more effective treatment while reducing density and downtime. While most ablative lasers claim to perform stacking, the Tetra PRO stands out due to its exceptionally clean shot profile. Testing this is straightforward: you set the desired number of stacks and examine the treatment area under a dermatoscope. Many other laser brands show a distinct thermal ring, but the Tetra PRO provides a clean, precise shot. Why is this important? A clean shot ensures controlled stacking with minimal thermal diffusion to adjacent
“This laser has replaced our erbium lasers, CO2 lasers and RFM devices”
areas. Uncontrolled diffusion can lead to prolonged downtime, erythema, and hyperpigmentation.
In the realm of CO₂ lasers, the quality of the beam profile is critical. Tetra PRO’s SmartStack function excels in this aspect by enhancing treatment outcomes while minimising side effects and recovery time.
Prior to Tetra PRO, most of the rejuvenation work the clinic performed was performed by our dermatologists. Fast forward to now, my nurses perform most of the CO₂ aesthetic work, allowing dermatologists to concentrate on the more challenging medical work such as scar revision, including laser revision of acne, burns, surgical and traumatic scarring. The “Scar” handpiece allows for deeper and cleaner penetration of scar tissue that challenges the best ultra-short pulsed lasers. The ability to customise and manipulate the dwell time of the pulse has added another dimension in how I and the other dermatologist treat scars, especially in skin of colour. The patient’s recovery time has shortened considerably, as have side effects such as postinflammatory hyperpigmentation and erythema. This laser has replaced our erbium lasers, CO₂ lasers and RFM devices and is the standout EBD (energy-based device) for scar revision and skin rejuvenation. hightechmedical.com.au
This is an example of an incredible result achieved by my nurse Alison Webb with the Tetra Pro using a combination of customised pulse structures, densities and stacks after only 3 weeks of using this laser. Laser time was under 15 minutes. The results are equal to, or if not better than, what I could have achieved with older generation fully ablative CO2 devices.
Vaginal Health in the Hot Seat
What the TGA’s new rules mean for you with DR LIZ GOLEZ.
Let’s talk about something deeply personal yet incredibly important— your intimate health. For women navigating genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GUSM), finding the right support can be truly life-changing.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia’s regulatory body for medicines and medical devices, recently announced a ban on energy-based devices for vaginal rejuvenation. While aimed at cosmetic procedures, this decision unintentionally affects countless patients who depend on these devices to manage GUSM—a condition that warrants greater attention and compassion.
“Understanding these changes, exploring the options still available, and advocating for evidence-based care is something I’m deeply passionate about. Everyone deserves effective solutions without judgment or unnecessary barriers” says Dr Liz.
What Is GUSM?
“Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GUSM) may be a mouthful to say, but it’s a condition that affects nearly half of all postmenopausal women. If you’ve experienced vaginal dryness, discomfort during intimacy, recurrent UTIs, or just a sense of ‘not quite right’ down there, you’re not alone.”
These symptoms are common, but that doesn’t make them any less frustrating or disruptive. Left untreated, they can take a toll on your quality of life, particularly if you’re sexually active.
“Here’s the thing: GUSM isn’t something you just have to ‘put up with.’ There are treatments that can help, and understanding your options is the first step toward reclaiming your comfort and confidence,” says Liz.
How GUSM Is Treated
When it comes to GUSM, there isn’t a onesize-fits-all solution—treatments should be personalised.
Most women start with:
• Lubricants and moisturisers, which provide short-term relief.
• Low-dose vaginal estrogen, which helps restore moisture and elasticity for those who need hormonal support.
“But what if these don’t work, or hormones aren’t an option for you? This is where energy-based devices (EBDs) have been game-changers. These treatments use gentle lasers or radiofrequency energy to stimulate collagen in vaginal tissues, improving lubrication and alleviating symptoms of vaginal atrophy.
For women who can’t use hormones—like cancer survivors—EBDs have provided hope, relief, and a way to regain confidence and intimacy,” states Liz.
What’s Changing?
The TGA recently announced a ban on energy-based devices (EBDs) for vaginal rejuvenation. It’s important to note that “vaginal rejuvenation” refers to cosmetic procedures, not the therapeutic use of these devices for managing GUSM.
“This distinction is so important because many women have relied on energy-based devices as a non-hormonal solution for their symptoms. These regulatory changes have left both patients and providers facing uncertainty.
While the TGA’s decision aligns with global guidelines, it highlights the urgent need for more research into the long-term safety and efficacy of these devices. Women deserve treatment options that are safe, effective, and accessible,” says Liz.
Why Research Matters
“Here’s what we do know: women who’ve used energy-based devices for GUSM report satisfaction rates as high as 80–90%. Side effects are minimal, and the results truly speak for themselves. However, for regulatory bodies to feel confident, more long-term studies are needed,” says Liz.
GUSM is a challenge many women face, but Liz is determined to ensure it doesn’t
define her patients’ lives. “The TGA’s decision has raised questions about the future of energy-based treatments, but one thing is certain—we need more diverse options, continued research, and stronger advocacy for women’s health,” she says.
“Your voice matters. By sharing your experiences, participating in studies, and advocating for evidence-based care, you play a vital role in shaping the future of women’s health. Let’s keep talking, asking questions, and fighting for the care we all deserve,” says Liz.
Get Involved
If you’ve experienced GUSM, know someone who has, or have used energy-based treatments, you’re an essential part of this important conversation.
Email doctor@liftclinic.com.au to share your story or learn more about upcoming research opportunities.
Exosomes the future of skin generation or just hype?
We
sat down with BORKA BUSESKA , Australian Distribution Manager for NeoGenesis to find out.
From enhancing skin repair to tackling inflammation, exosomes are making waves in skincare. But what exactly are they, how do they work, and what should you know before incorporating them into your treatment offering?
What are Exosomes?
Exosomes are tiny vesicles that are secreted by cells and are known to play a crucial role in cell-to-cell communication. The word exosome is one word that covers many different things. Exosomes derived from different cell types carry different molecules and exhibit different behaviours. For example, derive an exosome from a bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell and it may induce inflammation in the skin, whereas an exosome from an adipose mesenchymal stem cell (ADSC) will reduce inflammation.
The exosome is like a tiny nano-capsule, similar but different in important ways compared to liposomes. Unlike the liposome, some exosomes are smart. Exosomes from adipose mesenchymal stem cells in skin have special structures that allow them to easily penetrate the skin and deliver the molecules throughout the skin where they are needed. And given these ADSCs are derived from the skin, the molecules inside the ADSCs’ exosome are those molecules native to the skin that promote anti-inflammatory and regenerative functions. It is this relationship that makes NeoGenesis the product of choice.
How do you extract Exosomes?
To be clear, exosomes cannot be extracted from cells. They must be naturally released from cells through a so-called ‘budding process.” Once they are released, they can be collected. Anyone talking about an extracted exosome or an artificial exosome is not describing a true exosome. Critical to exosome function is how they are handled and processed. Isolation and freeze-drying (Lyophilization) techniques can damage the exosomes, rendering the cargo of proteins damaged and the molecules tethered to the outside of the exosomes to be stripped away. Damaged proteins on the inside become dysfunctional, and the proteins and polysaccharides tethered on the outside that have been stripped, yield an exosome without penetration and targeting functions. Using fresh exosomes that haven’t been processed obviates the problems of dysfunctional proteins and exosomes that have been denuded of their targeting and penetration qualities.
What are the risks and Benefits of using products with exosome
When the right exosome types are used, they effectively promote collagen production, reduce inflammation, and improve skin texture, tone, and fine lines. Their ability to penetrate deep into the skin makes them ideal for treating sun damage, acne, and hyperpigmentation. Exosomes are now incorporated into creams, serums, and masks and can be delivered through treatments like microneedling for enhanced absorption.
However, not all exosomes are the same—bone marrowderived exosomes can induce chronic inflammation with continuous use, while adipose-derived exosomes (ADSCs) reduce it, making formulation a crucial factor.
Additionally, excipients and preservative systems play a key role in maintaining product safety and efficacy. For example, NeoGenesis uses wound-healing excipients commonly found in medical-grade skincare to support skin health and regeneration.
Moving forward with exosomes
Research has shown that exosomes play a key role in maintaining and regenerating the skin, making them an increasingly popular ingredient in skincare. However, not all exosome products are created equal, and some may be suboptimal.
As research evolves, we continue to uncover new benefits and applications for skin health and rejuvenation. Before incorporating exosome-based skincare into your routine, it’s essential to seek professional advice to ensure you’re using a high-quality, wellformulated product.
If you’re looking for skin care products that utilise an exosome delivery system for yourself or to help your clients take their results to the next level, check out the NeoGenesis skin and hair serums on our website below. NeoGenesis’ patented S2RM ® technology is on the cutting edge of skincare science. Our powerhouse skin and hair serums deliver targeted nutrients and molecules to help balance even the most damaged areas, helping to return the skin to its natural state when it was young and healthy.
NeoGenesisPro.com.au
Exciting Changes For InstantCosmetics
In a significant move that signals ambitious growth plans, InstantCosmetics has announced two key leadership appointments, bringing decades of combined expertise in medical aesthetics to Wesfarmers Health.
Charlie Abboud, appointed in April 2024 as Head of InstantCosmetics, brings a wealth of experience spanning pharmaceutical sales, medical aesthetics, and business development. His journey in the industry began in 2006 with AstraZeneca, before transitioning to Allergan Australia in 2008, where he honed his expertise in medical aesthetics product portfolios.
Perhaps most notably, Charlie played a pivotal role in the exponential growth of Laser Clinics Australia, serving as Head of Injectables. During his tenure, he oversaw the company’s expansion from a handful of Sydney-based clinics to an impressive network of over 150 locations across Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and Singapore.
After a successful stint consulting for Teoxane Australia, Abboud took some time away from the industry to work on some personal projects. Charlie’s passion for the aesthetics healthcare space ultimately drew him back. Charlie explained, “The opportunity to lead InstantCosmetics represents an exciting new chapter in my career.”
helped nurses streamline their businesses with smart software that takes care of the work for them. The innovative new platform combines comprehensive practice management with advanced clinical support, offering a solution that aesthetics practitioners have long awaited.
This new platform brings a whole suite of improvements designed to make the lives of injectors easier. It introduces new features like treatment planning options for patients with builtin facial mapping for more seamless treatment planning, and a streamlined drug book and inventory management system. An enhanced shop interface has made purchasing smoother and more user-friendly, achieving their goal of creating a beautifully simple experience for both patients and injectors.
Joining Charlie in further strengthening the InstantCosmetcis leadership team is Justine Stewart-Crompton, who steps into the newly-created role of National Key Account Manager. With nearly two decades of experience in medical aesthetics, Justine’s impressive career spans roles at Fresh Clinics, Galderma, Cryomed, Candela Medical, and Allergan.
Justine will leverage her deep industry connections and extensive knowledge to enhance partner relationships and drive strategic initiatives. Justine’s forward-thinking approach has consistently translated into innovative solutions for clients and partners. With her passion for aesthetics and proven ability to deliver value, Justine is poised to make a significant impact in her new role, furthering InstantCosmetics’ commitment to excellence in the medical aesthetics sector.
In addition to these strategic hires, InstantCosmetics has undergone a complete overhaul of its platform to align with the latest industry trends, which is reshaping how cosmetic clinics manage their operations, backed by the reliability of Wesfarmers Health. InstantCosmetics surveyed its customers to understand exactly what they wanted, and built the new brand, website and software based on their customers’ wish list. Through the website, they have
InstantCosmetics has made it easier for clinics to facilitate compliance. This enhanced audit functionality allows clinics to track every touchpoint, ensuring compliance with the latest regulations. Users can conduct their regular clinic audits with ease and the platform generates real-time reports on script and product usage, which is crucial for maintaining high standards of patient safety.
Customer service is at the heart of everything at InstantCosmetics. Their customers value the speed and reliability of the new platform, and the InstantCosmetics team provides ongoing assistance to cosmetic nurses and doctors to ensure that they have everything they need to run their businesses efficiently – from tech support to product expertise.
InstantCosmetics’ experienced local support team is there to assist with both technical and clinical enquiries. Comprising nurses and support professionals, the team offers comprehensive assistance. In addition, InstantCosmetics provides 24/7 emergency medical support, backed by their Cosmetic Complications Director, Dr Jonathan Hopkirk and Medical Director, Dr Built Amporndanai. This ensures that clinics scripting with InstantCosmetics receive full support across all aspects of their operations, giving them peace of mind.
“With our comprehensive platform features and the wealth of industry experience our team brings, we’re well-equipped to support clinics in delivering superior patient care while optimising their business operations”, commented Charlie. The combination of Charlie’s strategic vision and Justine’s deep industry relationships positions InstantCosmetics for significant growth in the evolving medical aesthetics landscape. Their collective expertise signals a new era for the company, one focused on innovation, compliance, and excellence in service delivery.
instantcosmetics.com.au
Charlie Abboud
Justine Stewart-Crompton
The Connection Between Teeth and Facial Structure
WDR NELSON BAYER of Valley Dental explains
hen we think about our facial structure, dentistry might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, the position, condition and alignment of your teeth play a pivotal role in how your face appears and ages. From supporting the lips and cheeks to maintaining jawline symmetry, your teeth hold the key to a balanced and youthful face. Let’s take a quick deep dive on how dentistry can enhance your facial structure.
The Role of Teeth in Facial Structure
Our teeth are more than tools for chewing; they act as the foundation for our facial structure. Teeth alignment, positioning and health directly influence facial contours. Missing molars, for instance, can cause the cheeks to sink inward due to a lack of buccal support. Similarly, missing front teeth can reduce lip support, resulting in a less full and youthful appearance. Even the height of your bite–known as vertical dimension–plays a significant role. When teeth are worn down or lost, the jaw can overclose, creating wrinkles around the mouth often referred to as “witches’ lines.” These changes highlight the importance of maintaining healthy teeth for a youthful and balanced face.
How Ageing Impacts Teeth and Facial Appearance
As we age, the changes in our teeth and soft tissue around our mouths can profoundly affect our overall facial structure. The upper lip tends to drop, and the lower lip follows suit, as collagen production decreases and the skin loses elasticity. This natural process can cause the top teeth to become less visible when we smile, while the lower teeth take center stage, a shift that’s often associated with an older appearance. Combined with the thinning of enamel over time, this makes teeth appear darker and yellow which impacts the vibrancy of your smile and overall facial aesthetics.
Enhancing Facial Structure Through Dentistry
Modern dentistry offers effective solutions to restore and enhance facial structure addressing both functional and aesthetic concerns, including:
• Bonding and Contouring. Subtle procedures like bonding or contouring can refine your facial proportions without major interventions.
• Adjustments to Tooth Alignment. Procedures like Invisalign refine jaw positioning align your teeth which enhances the contours of your jawline and cheekbones, contributing to a balanced facial structure.
• Veneers and Crowns. These restorations can correct the size, shape and alignment of your teeth, restoring lip and cheek support while enhancing facial symmetry. By addressing issues such as worn or discoloured teeth, veneers and crowns create a harmonious and rejuvenated look.
• Dental Implants. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants restorers the structural support for your cheeks and lips, preventing sagging often associated with tooth loss. Implants also maintain jawbone density, ensuring the lower face retains its natural shape and fullness.
• Full Mouth Rehabilitation. Restoring lost vertical dimension through comprehensive dental work can naturally lift your cheeks, define your jawline and reduce wrinkles and sagging around your mouth. This may include a combination of the above treatment options, tailored to your individual needs, by your dentist.
• Dentures. Modern dentures are designed to restore both function and aesthetics, providing crucial support to the cheeks and lips while maintaining proper bite alignment. Well-fitted dentures can enhance facial contours and prevent the sunken appearance caused by missing teeth.
Dentistry as a Natural and Long-Lasting Solution
Unlike temporary anti-ageing solutions, dental treatments offer a more permanent and holistic approach to enhancing facial aesthetics. The best dentistry respects and restores your natural form, emphasising a healthy, glowing appearance over exaggerated changes. By integrating functionality with aesthetics, dentistry provides a sustainable path to facial enhancement.
The Importance of Preventative Care
Maintaining the natural integrity of your teeth is key to preserving facial structure. Regular dental check-ups, professional cleanings, and good oral hygiene practices can help prevent issues like tooth loss or wear that impacts aesthetics. If you have undergone dental procedures to restore your function and aesthetics, these long-term maintenance practices become essential to ensure that the improvements remain intact.
Questions to Ask and Risks to Consider
Dental treatments require careful consideration. Consulting a qualified professional ensures personalised recommendations and informed decisions. While generally safe, outcomes vary, highlighting the need for tailored planning. Your teeth shape your facial structure, impacting your smile and jawline. Dentistry blends health and art, and with the right care, your teeth become a lifelong asset to your wellbeing and aesthetics.
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*LifeSci Consulting Primary Market Research – Survey conducted 2022 **The HA Immerse Serum (Product) is provided to enable HCPs to gain experience with the product to improve patient care. It is not provided as a gift. Limit of one Product may be provided for free per HCP per clinic. The Product may not be on-sold or used on paying customers. Galderma Australia Pty Ltd, Level 18, 1 Denison St, North Sydney, NSW 2060, Australia. ABN 12 003 976 930. Phone: 1800 144 944. Galderma is a registered trademark of Galderma Holding S.A. All other ® and TM trademarks are of ALASTIN Skincare, Inc. AU-ALA-2400075. November 2024.
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