Professional Beauty ISSUE-2 2025

DX Glow™

INNOVATION + RESULTS

SOTHYS, a combination of impeccable technology with an outstanding experience for the senses...

SCIENCE + NATURE

Join us in 2025 and discover the difference choosing SOTHYS will make to your business!

A brand dedicated to the development of treatments created for professionals...

SOTHYS Digi-Esthétique® massage

This exclusive massage technique, improves and optimises the performance of SOTHYS Intensive Treatments.

We don’t follow trends, we create them!

introducing exo booster the world’s first bacterial exosome system, with efficacy that surpasses human exosomes.*

what are exosomes and why do they matter?

Exosomes are microscopic messengers that play a crucial role in cellular communication. They carry proteins, lipids, and growth factors that signal the skin to repair itself, strengthen its barrier, and maintain a youthful appearance. However, as we age, this communication slows down, leading to fine lines, uneven skin tone, and loss of elasticity.

Traditionally, exosomes have been derived from either human or animal tissue; however, through extensive research and clinical trials, Dermalogica PRO has discovered a breakthrough in exosome technology: vegan exosomes derived from Lactobacillus bacteria. This innovation offers superior efficacy compared to both human- and plant-based exosomes, making it a groundbreaking discovery in professional skincare.

Lactobacillus exosomes are among the most powerful sources for promoting cellular regeneration and vitality. They work alongside Dermalogica’s own Pro-Resolution Technology, which helps optimise skin recovery, reduce visible signs of ageing, and support overall skin longevity. Unlike many traditional skincare ingredients that focus on surface-level hydration or exfoliation, exosomes work at a biological level, enhancing intercellular communication to create longlasting improvements in skin health.

86%

In a clinical study on 32 participants who had a microneedling procedure, those who also received Exo Booster had an 86% reduction in the appearance of wrinkles compared to those who had microneedling alone. (Results were measured 21 days post-op.) This same group also experienced a 46% increase in skin resilience.

how exo booster works

Each professional treatment delivers 10 billion skinrejuvenating exosomes, making Exo Booster one of the most advanced solutions for targeted skin regeneration. It integrates seamlessly into professional treatments and at-home routines, offering key benefits:

Accelerates Skin Renewal – Enhances cellular communication to speed up repair, minimising fine lines and wrinkles.

Strengthens the Skin Barrier – Reinforces the skin’s defences, locking in moisture and shielding against environmental stressors.

Boosts Radiance and Evens Skin Tone – Supports natural skin renewal to improve clarity and reduce dullness.

Maximises Treatment Results – Lightweight yet powerful, Exo Booster enhances the efficacy of professional treatments and homecare serums.

Extended Post-Treatment Home Care – Offers six days of post-treatment skin support, compared to just 1.5 days with human-derived exosomes, ensuring sustained repair and renewal.

In addition to its role in skin renewal, Exo Booster also modulates inflammation—a key factor in premature ageing and compromised skin barrier function. Chronic inflammation, often caused by environmental stressors, UV exposure, and pollution, can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. By introducing exosomes that actively promote resolution-phase responses, Exo Booster helps interrupt the cycle of inflammation, keeping the skin in an optimal state for repair.

exo booster: the perfect post-treatment enhancer superior to human exosomes* it’s not just recovery—it’s transformation.

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

Contact your local Dermalogica PRO representative or contact us on 1800-659-118 or go to pro.dermalogica.com.au.

PUBLISHER

BHA MEDIA

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Simon Grover

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Hannah Gay hgay@intermedia.com.au

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Julie Davidson

jdavidson@intermedia.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Ryan Vizcarra ryanv@intermedia.com.au

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jacqui Cooper

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12 Editor’s Letter

14 Beauty Bites

18 The PB Archives

20 Forecast: Ageing

24 Cover Story: HydroPeptide

28 In Salon

32 Investigation: SPF

EDUCATION

34 What salon owners want

36 Ongoing education

40 Scalp micropigmentation

42 ABIC update

BUSINESS

44 Hands-on approach

46 30 years in business

48 Profit generation

49 EOFY advice

50 Salon services

WELLNESS

52 Managing menopause

54 Profile: Melanie Gleeson

56 Profile: Sukha

58 The business of bathing

BEAUTY

62 Shop the Shoot: New in skin

68 Undetectable era

72 Hydration for skin

76 Hot Products: At-home tech

80 Salon software

82 Re-discover electrolysis

90 Natural DHAs

92 Airbrush makeup

94 SENSORY. MAKEUP. THE ART

97 Low-tox nails

98 Russian manicure

100 Custom blending

101 Profile: Browera

102 Out & about

105 End note: Bed Judd

This publication is published by BHA MEDIA, a division of The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

There’s nothing fluffy about us

Dr. Spiller Cellular Day Cream, visibly improving the appearance of this cosmeceutical-damaged skin.

Biomimetic skin barrier repair. Some call us fluffy. We call it powerful.

Natural Beauty Bar, NSW

SCAN ME

EDIT O R’S LETTER

The start of any new year brings about both opportunities and challenges for business owners. Following the Christmas rush, client traffic tends to slow, appointment times are spaced out, and busy client schedules are replaced by clean nails and nights in. Slow days, however, provide ample time for salons to up their intake of education. Whether training is led by suppliers, external business gurus, or aligned to RTOs, nowadays there’s no limit to how much knowledge therapists can take on.

In the digital age, businesses are turning their attention to marketing strategies that are cost-effective and time-savvy to produce. Many are eager to experiment with new mediums, others recruiting their clients to join in their efforts. The impending end of the financial year means salons are often ripe to invest in new technologies and services as means to enhance their treatment menus. And, where time permits, salons can take stock of their teams’ learnings, stress points, and achievements.

That’s why this issue dives deep into the topic of education. We’ve interviewed a string of experts from across the industry to share their feedback on where education is lacking, and to discuss the areas in which salons ought to invest their money and time filling skills gaps.

EDITOR’S PICKS

Viviology’s Lipid Cleanser is a great all-rounder - a pleasure to use, no matter how bad the skin day. Advanced Cosmeceuticals Skin Group 1800 242 011.

I can rely on Tissue Repair’s, beta-glucan rich TR Pro+ to relieve my recurring perioral dermatitis. Tissue Repair info@ trtherapeutics.com.

Wellness is the word on every industry member’s lips in 2025. And while the term takes shape in many forms, we call out key talking points ranging from menopause to bathing this issue, chatting to wellness KOLs to learn more on what makes this billion-dollar industry so exciting to be involved with.

Don’t miss our interview with the CEO of leading cosmeceutical company HydroPeptide, Annette Rubin. We discuss epigenetics, product development, and the power of peptides in our skincare. We continue celebrating 30 years of Professional Beauty with The Professional Beauty Archives, this issue highlighting key industry moments from 2003 to 2010. We forecast what it means to age in 2025 with our special report The Rise of Ageing Resilience from page 20. We unpack the latest launches in skincare from page 62. And talk salon software - flagging what salons ought to look for in a software partner - from page 80.

My hope is that by reading this issue, your teams will get the chance to learn something new in our ever-evolving industry. Enjoy!

Hannah Gay, Editor in Chief

Adding to my library of favourite Holme Beauty products is the brand’s champagnehued Base Primer in Bang. Holme Beauty 0488 111 950.

Photography: Joseph G Media/Supplied

B E AUTY BIT E S

PB’s eye to the ground on the Australian beauty industry.

1.

Estetika makeup bags are up on top Estetika is at the forefront of innovation in beauty accessories, sporting a collection of premium makeup bags for use by the professional and consumer alike. Wanda Szychowska is behind the emerging label, having recently unveiled a new colour collection that underpins her commitment to sustainable, modern design with a luxurious touch.

2.

SOTHYS showcases A/W makeup campaign

Direct from France, SOTHYS’ latest line of cosmetics has now arrived in Australia - and is set to impress. A rich palette of universal shades means there’s something for everyone. The line features an energy-enhancing colour corrector, powder blush, chubby eyeshadow pencils in two shades, 2-in-1 lip pencil, and pretty-in-pink satin liquid lipstick.

3.

Salon Threads releases first drop

According to brand Founder Rose Andrews, Salon Threads was created with the goal of “providing beauty professionals with uniforms that combine style, comfort, and professionalism.” The experienced beauty therapist developed the range in Melbourne, electing neutral shades to pair back with modern aesthetic spaces. Logo embroidery and discounts for orders of 10+ uniforms are also available.

Words: Hannah

Gay | Photography: Supplied

4.

Guiya Minerals unveils new foundation

Up-and-coming Australian makeup brand, Guiya Minerals has relaunched its core foundation product, accompanied by a new name: Mineral Muse. The liquid, which is housed in a sustainable frosted glass bottle, heroes skin-loving ingredients such as squalane and desert finger lime.

5.

Download your FREE Retail Bible

REVEAL Australia’s Iola Ciavarra is offering Professional Beauty readers a FREE download of her Retail Bible (RRP $59.95)an inspiring guide on how to master the art of the retail sale at your salon, spa or clinic. Iola packs 30+ years of industry experience into this 27-page e-book, suitable for all experience levels. Scan the QR code and apply PROBEAUTY to the coupon box at check-out (valid to August 31 2025).

6.

Cosmology Skincare is now Iyvos

Cosmology Skincare has announced a fresh look and feel, complete with a new name: Iyvos. Iyvos was founded by GC Skin Boutique Owner Gabrielle Singh, who says “our goal is to create effective, luxurious skincare that women can trust, and that helps them feel confident in their skin.” The collection consists of 11 SKUs containing clinically-proven ingredients.

7.

Support the scalp with EH Plus

With all eyes on head spa treatments, the release of the EH Plus Aroma Ampoule Roller Stick is one to watch. The on-the-go product was formulated to soothe an itchy, hot scalp, combat hair loss, and maintain moisture balance. The innovative Korean product is now distributed in Australia under HeadSpa Solutions.

MODELROCK x Merton Muaremi collab

MODELROCK has partnered with celebrity hair and makeup artist, Merton Muaremi to showcase the brand’s new Salon Edition Lash Clusters. Merton, who boasts a following of 90.1k on Instagram, said “I love how versatile The Luxe Edit Clusters are. They offer a wide variety of lash styles - from natural to ultra-dramatic - so they can work with any makeup look.” The range is available in six categories: Everyday, Thick & Fluffy, Textured, Petite, Espresso & Dramatic.

10.

Sandra Levy-Valensi brings Cible Skin down

KLOUD Palette for beauty professionals

The goal of KLOUD’s wearable, latex-free silicone palette is to “allow for effortless contact and mixing of colours while minimising the risk of contact allergies,” the brand’s website states. Produced by experienced makeup artist Karina Deichler, the product serves to comfortably and flexibly replace the skin for clean mixing. KLOUD is available in two colours - charcoal black and palette pink - and suits MUAs, lash and brow techs, and other industry pros and enthusiasts. 9.

Respected French-Australian skin expert, Sandra-Levy Valensi has been appointed the official ambassador of Cible Skin in Australia. The luxury ImmunoCosmetics brand heroes a patented technology - 1-LGVTY® - designed to activate the skin’s immune, microbiological, and physical barriers to combat signs of ageing. Sandra will act as the official point of contact for Australian clinics, offering exclusive introductions to the brand, training opportunities, and partnership discussions.

THE PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY ARCHIVES

A look back at three decades of the Australian professional beauty industry.

2003

● Rapid expansion of IPL and laser technologies leads the Radiological Council of WA to mandate stringent training for safe usage in beauty settings.

● TAFE institutions add modules on advanced skincare and laser treatments, meeting the demand for hightech, results-driven beauty treatments.

● Omnilux introduces its LED system, popularising non-invasive light therapy for anti-ageing and skin rejuvenation.

● Sydney International Beauty Expo (IBE) joins forces with Reed Exhibitions.

2004

2005

● L’Oréal Men Expert launches in Australia, marking a significant rise in the men’s grooming and skincare market.

● Terri Vinson launches Synergie Skin, focusing on clean science and high-potency active ingredients in professional skincare.

● Aspect Skincare launches, specialising in clinical-grade skincare with a focus on active, cosmeceutical ingredients.

● Victoria University launches Australia’s first Dermal Therapies degree, elevating skincare to an advanced scientific discipline.

● The Australasian College of Natural Therapies launches Advanced Diploma of Natural Beauty Therapy and Diploma of Nutrition to meet increasing demand for education in these areas.

● Courses offered via The Australian Academy of Makeup Artistry become government accredited, meaning successful completion of Certificate II in Makeup Artistry (WRB20299A) or the Diploma in Entertainment Makeup (CUE50798) would result in nationally recognised qualifications. Medik8 launches, promoting green chemistry by combining clean formulas with highperforming skincare solutions. Margifox takes on Australian distributorship of jane iredale mineral makeup.

● Short, square nails are all the rage on international runways.

2006

● Dr Ziv Karni develops SHR (Super Hair Removal) technology, enhancing the speed and comfort of hair removal treatments.

● The French Beauty Academy celebrates 20 years of operation, offering a range of nationally accredited beauty courses.

● Advanced Cosmeceuticals (now Advanced Cosmeceuticals Skin Group) is established, providing Australian beauty professionals with access to leading cosmeceutical brands.

● SkinCeuticals enters the Australian market, with its hero product CE Ferulic serum becoming a top-selling anti-ageing product for its antioxidant power.

2007

● The Global Financial Crisis (GFC) leads to reduced consumer spending on beauty, reshaping the industry’s pricing and service offerings.

● The very first iPhone is released globally, marking a key shift in the way beauty businesses and consumers use technology.

● Pre-soaked products, such as wipes and pads, are introduced in treatment rooms and to consumers.

● INIKA Organic introduces eco-friendly makeup, focusing on recyclable and biodegradable packaging for a sustainable approach.

2009

● The Fair Work Act (FWA) establishes protections and fair wages for Australian employees, impacting beauty industry employment standards.

● Elly Lukas Beauty Therapy College moves to its now iconic location of Flinders Street, Melbourne, expanding its facilities and resources for beauty education.

● Silk Laser Clinics enters the Australian market, providing affordable and accessible laser hair removal and skincare treatments.

● LCA introduces cosmetic injectables, making non-surgical enhancements more accessible.

● Laser Genesis arrives, becoming a popular nonablative laser treatment for skin rejuvenation and pigmentation.

● Kitomba Salon Software launches, providing beauty and wellness businesses with management software to streamline booking, payments, and client management.

GRAB A COPY OF PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY ISSUE 03 2025 FOR A LOOK BACK AT THE INDUSTRY FROM 2011 TO 2018, IN SALONS AND ONLINE AUGUST 2025.

2008

● Laser Clinics Australia (LCA) opens its first clinic, expanding access to affordable, medically-backed laser and skin treatments.

● The hottest cosmeceutical ingredients for 2008 are said to be peptides, brightening serums and peels, both for professional and at-home use.

● Fraxel - a type of fractional laser therapy - arrives in Australia, however is limited to use by doctors and cosmetic surgeons at first.

● Makeup tutorials featuring in Professional Beauty hero smouldering smokey eyes and slim brows.

2010

● O Cosmedics launches, promoting corneotherapy and biomimetic technology to address skin ageing and a multitude of skin concerns.

● Derma Aesthetics founded, becoming the exclusive distributor of dermaviduals in Australia and supporting corneotherapeutic skincare.

● Hydrafacial launches, quickly becoming a popular treatment for deep hydration and skin rejuvenation.

● The launch of the world’s first automated Dermapen changed the microneedling industry, providing a safer, more effective treatment option.

● Swedish cosmetic brand Make Up Store opened its first in a string of Australian shopfronts (only to cease all operations here by 2016).

THE RISE OF AGEING RESILIENCE

Revealing newfound attitudes and behaviours, the Global Beauty Industry Summit’s 2025 ageing report captures crucial industry knowledge. Kristie Lau-Adams unpacks everything you need to know.

THE GLOBAL sentiment on ageing has rejected a defeatist mindset, pushing the beauty industry to become increasingly transparent and truthful, accelerate scientific research efforts and diversify products and services to support every life stage. Firmly optimistic, the ageing market is seeing consumers take full control of their unique ageing journey, with demonstrated focus on longevity and holistic health — arguably more than physical appearance.

According to research conducted in November 2024 by the Openstreams Foundation, a non-profit organisation fostering collaboration within the beauty sector, which was then presented as the Global Beauty Industry Summit’s 2025 ageing report, even the way consumers talk about ageing has transformed. Surveying more than 1,000 people across seven countries, the company found that 50% of respondents prefer the team ‘healthy ageing’ to ‘anti-ageing,’ reaffirming the wide-spread brand shift to irradicate ‘anti-ageing’ terminology altogether. At a local level, it arguably validates the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) December 2023 blanket ban on the phrase ‘anti-wrinkle’ in ads for cosmetic injectables, driving brands to detail assessable benefits, such as reduced wrinkles and smooth skin, instead.

A new code of ethics

At December 2024’s Openstreams Global Beauty Industry Summit, staged in New York City, brand representatives urged business owners to shift their attitude when promoting ageing products and services. In the universal pursuit to build ➤

“63.76% INDICATED THEY PREFER “MODEST AND REALISTIC” PRODUCT AND SERVICES CLAIMS OVER SO-CALLED GUARANTEES.”

WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT HAIR CARE

A powerful global movement is encouraging the growth of natural grey hair, with the study finding that more consumers than not believe “people should embrace their natural grey hair,” rather than “cover [it] because they look better that way.” The global hair care market is also predicted to grow by more than $1 billion by 2032 with innovations in scalp health — spanning dryness, sensitivity, hair thinning and oiliness — proving irresistible to consumers of all ages.

Photography: iStock/MarioGuti

“INTERESTINGLY, CHANGES IN PHYSICAL APPEARANCE DURING THE AGEING JOURNEY PROVE TO BE LESS CONCERNING, WITH JUST 43.77% OF RESPONDENTS PRIORITISING THIS CONCERN.”

consumer trust, Estée Lauder Companies’ Dr Nadine Pernodet recommended that brands steer clear of scare tactics to instead “provide solutions without making people feel guilty”. To underscore this growing philosophy, Openstreams’ study found a remarkable consumer craving for brands to convey authentic ageing promises. Of those surveyed, 63.76% indicated they prefer “modest and realistic” product and services claims over so-called guarantees.

Additionally, demand for tailored products and services that speak directly to one’s age is high. As Tina Viney, CEO of Australia’s Aesthetics Practitioners Advisory Network (APAN), explained during the summit, brands “must celebrate each stage of life and offer solutions that fit specific age-related priorities.” Another thought leader, Cesar Tsukuda of Beauty Fair Brazil, stressed the need for products that cater to “both affluent and less privileged populations”. After all, ageing does not discriminate.

Blending science and beauty

Medical research and scientific advancements have revolutionised the ageing sector’s approach to beauty, helping brands offer highly effective support for ageing populations. Industry heavyweights including LVMH and the Estée Lauder Companies are partnering with bioscience companies to unearth evidence-based breakthroughs, with L’Oréal’s Dr Qian Zheng discussing the brand’s microbiome research at the summit. “We’ve discovered specific bacterial strains that correlate with wrinkle severity,

THE LATEST ON COSMETICS AND FRAGRANCE

Most individuals surveyed (75.76%) believe that consumers should “adapt their makeup style to their age”, while a smaller portion (60%) claimed they wear makeup to “look younger”. Changing ageing attitudes are also impacting buying habits as the most-purchased products featured hybrid formulations, according to the study. Most notably, products that incorporate ceramides and niacinamide with colour performance ingredients are proving popular. Fragrance is also evidently affected by a shifting ageing mindset, with functional varieties that promote sleep quality and reduce stress, favoured over non-functional scents.

paving the way for precision products,” she said. Investigations into sirtuins, proteins that assist with longevity, metformin, a medicine that may have the potential to prevent diseases, and ageing biology are also being supported by global beauty brands. The efforts correlate with the study’s research, which found that 58.73% of those surveyed elected “health deterioration” as their biggest fear as they age. Interestingly, changes in physical appearance during the ageing journey prove to be less concerning, with just 43.77% of respondents prioritising this concern.

The social media effect

Beauty brands should take stock of the role that social media plays in the ageing market, with the study identifying a generational gap that savvy business owners could take advantage of. While respondents aged between 18 and 44 indicated they feel “aligned” to the beauty ideals presented by the likes of Instagram and TikTok, those aged 55 and over reported much lower alignment and representation. Indicating an element of invisibility felt among our ageing population, the findings offer brands an opportunity to develop marketing and social media strategies that exclusively target older audiences.

At the other end of the spectrum, preventative ageing products and treatments in the way of skincare, intended for young audiences, are also growing in popularity. The study found that 53.4% of consumers believe that healthy ageing skincare “should be applied at a young age to prevent signs of ageing” to achieve “long-term benefits”. Senior Vice President Creative Director at trend platform BEAUTYSTREAMS, Michael Nolte, stressed the importance of a proactive approach. “Ageing begins the moment we are born,” Michael wrote within the study’s summary. “It is a universal journey, not confined to older consumers.”

The future is bright

The summit itself delivered a portal into the future of the global ageing industry, detailing the rise of retailers embracing smart technology to offer personalised products and services via a consumer’s smart phone. Online retailers should also expect to see an increase in “online wellbeing consultations”, plus more widespread collaboration with holistic medicine entities and healthcare providers. Meanwhile, offline retailers are poised to evolve into “hubs of community and wellbeing” due to the first-person social connections they provide, leading to subsequent healthy ageing. Ingredient-driven purchasing trends are also expected to soar.

“OFFLINE RETAILERS ARE POISED TO EVOLVE INTO ‘HUBS OF COMMUNITY AND WELLBEING’ DUE TO THE FIRSTPERSON SOCIAL CONNECTIONS THEY PROVIDE, LEADING TO SUBSEQUENT HEALTHY AGEING.”

As for what’s set to expand behind the scenes, cellular health research is predicted to hasten as longevity concerns continue, as is the integration of biotechnology and regenerative medicine with ageing products and services. The ageing market is an exciting space to grow a business right now, best crystalised at the summit by APAN’s Tina Viney, who told crowds that each stage of life — from youth’s vibrancy to maturity’s wisdom — is a reason to celebrate. ■

Boosts collagen and elastin for improved firmness and elasticity

Deeply hydrates to counter hormonal dryness

Protects against glycation-induced ageing for resilient skin

FROM LAB TO LUXURY, Meet HydroPeptide

Hannah Gay discovers the cosmeceutical brand that ticks every box.

In 2025, peptide is the word on the lips of beauty and aesthetic professionals globally.

And while not a new ingredient, usage of the active has drastically risen in frequency. One cosmeceutical brand has been at the forefront of peptide research from the beginning, investing in ingredient and delivery innovation for over 20 years. That brand is HydroPeptide - an American owned skincare brand developed off the back of advanced manufacturing efforts, specialising in peptide production.

An impressive collection of over 65 peptides occupy HydroPeptide’s catalogue of professionalgrade formulations. Clinically-derived ingredients work in harmony to counteract signs of ageing in skin, promoting collagen production while targeting other skin concerns ranging from acne to sensitivity. Across the brand’s extensive range, treatment protocols are designed to be customised. So why peptides? HydroPeptide is interested in the impact of epigenetics on the health and appearance of the skin. Scientists behind the brand work to find ingredients that can affect gene behavior and switch certain genes on or off. Techniques used in the lab measure and test gene function and observe how genes respond to certain topical ingredients. Peptides, when selected with consideration, are powerhouses in targeting and treating ageing skin. HydroPeptide’s formulas are developed from a synergistic and proprietary perspective to maximise impact.

It’s a process that has seen HydroPeptide secure its place as a leader in anti-ageing skincare innovation, not only for its use of ingredients, but for its distinctively high-end feel. In fact, the company recently rebranded its key messaging to reflect this vision: Cutting-Edge Peptide Science Meets Luxury Therapeutics for Truly Transformative Results.

Annette Rubin, CEO of HydroPeptide, describes the brand as sitting at “the intersection of luxury experiences”.

“Everything we do is high touch, but we really believe that in order to deliver on a luxury experience, you have to go beyond just the elegance of the texture and scent experience, and you have to deliver results.”

HydroPeptide was founded by and for professionals, ensuring that the luxury experience carries seamlessly from medical spas to five-star resorts. “We want it to consistently be the best skincare experience of your

life,” Annette says. Despite the brand’s grounding in science, Annette believes in the power of the skincare routine and the significance it plays in consumers’ wellbeing. “If we fall in love with that routine, and we’re compliant with it, it’s that compliance that is key to getting those lasting results.”

To further the brand’s exclusive appeal, key peptides are patented for use by HydoPeptide only. Annette shares, “We work really closely with top ranking academia and our benefactors from the research being done. We’ve got a very close relationship with The Keck School of Medicine at USC (University of Southern California) and we work very closely with Dr Bo Han, PHD. She leads the regenerative tissue lab and finds interesting solutions [for tissue repair].”

Annette credits the brand’s team of molecular biologists, dermatologists, nurse injectors and aestheticians who act as liaisons in providing educated feedback on a formulation’s efficacy; it’s a “multi-pronged approach”.

Photography: Supplied

In addition to researching topical skincare solutions, HydroPeptide works with organisations worldwide including the world’s leading developer of peptides to craft the most efficacious solutions available. The goal is to drive outcomes through the analysis of data surrounding how peptides interact with certain ingredients.

“I’ve been in the industry for over 35 years, and I’m seeing this incredible shift in skincare to regenerative aesthetics,” Annette explains. “How do we help our bodies naturally repair? Peptides are the key ingredient to unlock that.” With that, Annette says that there is no one target HydroPeptide user, given peptides also form naturally in the body and serve as the body’s building blocks. “The beauty of peptides is that they are able to target what you want them to target, while not leaving other damage” often caused by prescription medications, Annette says.

Half of all HydroPeptide users fall within the ages of 19 and 45 - a broad spectrum that reflects the brand’s universal appeal. And while the largest user cohort sits within the 35-45 range, Annette reveals the brand is witnessing a skew toward a younger demographic. “[They’re] super interested in ‘prejuvenation’, and so they’re really leaning into HydroPeptide… if you think about a prejuvenation brand, there are not a lot that are looking at it from the lens of Gen Z blending through to Gen A.”

The full HydroPeptide range is made up of 56 homecare SKUs plus a range of exclusive professional-only backbar solutions. The expansive range is designed to target “all skincare fundamentals”, Annette sees. And while the brand invests in continuous development, she flags a difference in simply addressing consumer “wants”, and addressing those wants with consideration of how a product will also contribute to overall skin health. “We need a broader range in order to allow for that highly customisable skincare experience that someone is looking for.”

“EVERYTHING WE DO IS HIGH TOUCH, BUT WE REALLY BELIEVE THAT IN ORDER TO DELIVER ON A LUXURY EXPERIENCE, YOU HAVE TO GO BEYOND JUST THE ELEGANCE OF THE TEXTURE AND SCENT EXPERIENCE, AND YOU HAVE TO DELIVER RESULTS.”

The brand’s hero product - Nimni Creamwas named after renowned scientist Dr Marcel Nimni, the godfather of collagen. The cream features patented Nimni™ Technology in conjunction with a complex blend of amino acids, retinol, antioxidants and, of course, peptides, including patented peptide cell-renew-16, together designed to promote healthy cell turnover. “He kept challenging that there are better ways to stimulate collagen production and that really, a healthy stimulation of collagen production is the most important thing we can do to support overall skin health,” Annette explains. She flags issues sprouting from alternative actives, noting the “inflammation cascade” caused by retinol use alone. “Nimni’s [alternative] creates a better outcome without the negative side-effects.”

Off the back of Dr Nimni’s findings, which are

anchored to elevating the functionality of individual amino acids (or mini peptides) and their ability to stabilise other actives that are ordinarily difficult to stabilise, HydroPeptide continues to achieve great things through R&D. The more “high-tech” products in HydroPeptide’s range have taken at least 24 months to develop - a testament to the brand’s attention to detail and commitment to results.

The brand’s latest development seeks to tap into the booming glass skin trend via ‘HydroGlass’. The in-clinic treatment is comprehensive - a 12-step routine, no less, that combines physical exfoliation, a Shikimic acid peel, 2-step oxygenation treatment, and moisture infusion mask (with optional LED amplification) in one. Annette credits “the real magic” of the treatment to HydroPeptide’s Shikimic acid peel - “highly effective, highly active, but with no down time.” Visible improvements in skin tone, texture and luminosity levels positions this medical-grade treatment in a class of its own.

Outside of the company’s dedication to product development is a dedication to women, Annette reveals. “I’m really passionate about this. In the beauty industry, there are more women owners and operators than any other segment of business. However, the rate of success is not what we would all want it to be.” HydroPeptide boasts an all-female C-Suite. “If you were to ask any one of us what our big ‘why’ is, it’s to help women in our industry; to be able to find lasting business and financial success.”

Creating a remarkable product is the first piece of the pie for Annette. What follows is maintaining a genuine connection to female business owners, expressing trust in her understanding of the dynamic of their businesses. “We understand the juggle. I only want to partner with distributors that share [this supportive mindset].” She credits Australia’s Professional Beauty Solutions team for this shared ethos. “I love this industry, and I think we have a profound role to play in how we help women look and feel their best. Beauty is for women, our most vulnerable place. There is a psychological benefit in being able to help women achieve beautiful, healthy skin.” ■

Professional Beauty Solutions + HydroPeptide = The Perfect Partnership

Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS) took over the highly sought after reins of HydroPeptide in 2024. Since then, the brand has continued to flourish in Australia, gaining momentum as a leader in providing peptide-packed solutions to local professionals and consumers alike. PBS Co-Founder Lisa Williams outlines the brand’s impact, and the many benefits of partnering with the distributor for HydroPeptide.

Why did PBS take on HydroPeptide in 2024?

“At Professional Beauty Solutions, we’re passionate about sourcing the very best for our clients, and HydroPeptide is a leader in the cosmeceutical skincare game globally. We’re driven by the mission to enrich lives through the power of skin health, combining professional treatments with results-driven at-home care, education, training and support. HydroPeptide perfectly aligns with this vision, making this partnership feel like a natural, organic fit for PBS. Together, we’re committed to delivering exceptional results, empowering both professionals and consumers to achieve radiant, healthy skin every day.

What makes HydroPeptide a standout in the professional skincare space is their unique focus on epigenetics and advanced peptide technology. They offer professional-only products and in-clinic treatments designed to be customised based on individual epigenetic skin markers basically tailoring skincare to how your skin behaves on a molecular level.

The products within the HydroPeptide range speak for themselves in the results they achieve and empower salons, spas and clinics in providing results for their clients. The range of products HydroPeptide offers is incredibly innovation driven, meaning our clients are at the forefront of cutting-edge technology and products. Partnering with HydroPeptide has helped our partners unlock new opportunities and achieve remarkable growth in their business.”

How many HydroPeptide products and protocols exist?

“With over 60 products and 14 professional protocols, HydroPeptide is a range that boasts something for every skin type and skin concern. The targeted collection has become a large part of salon, spa and clinics’ success with clients.”

What stands out about HydroPeptide’s range of skincare solutions compared to competitor ranges made available to professionals in Australia?

“What sets HydroPeptide apart in the Australian professional skincare market is its sophisticated fusion of high-performance science with a luxurious user experience. At the heart of its innovation is epigenetics—a cutting-edge field that explores how gene expression can be influenced without altering the DNA itself. HydroPeptide has harnessed this science to develop formulas that encourage the skin to activate genes linked to hydration, regeneration, and youthfulness, while quieting those associated with ageing and damage.

“PARTNERING WITH HYDROPEPTIDE HAS HELPED OUR PARTNERS UNLOCK NEW OPPORTUNITIES AND ACHIEVE REMARKABLE GROWTH IN THEIR BUSINESS.”

Central to their approach is the use of epigenetically active peptides—short chains of amino acids that act as precise messengers within the skin. These peptides are designed to signal skin cells to function in a more youthful, healthy manner, boosting collagen production, enhancing elasticity, and reducing inflammation. By intelligently targeting the expression of specific genes, HydroPeptide’s products help extend the skin’s natural vitality, offering results that are both visible and lasting. This science-led, gene-supportive strategy places the brand firmly at the forefront of professional skincare innovation in Australia and beyond.”

What does PBS look for in a potential stockist of HydroPeptide?

“At PBS, our mission is rooted in transforming lives through the power of skin health, and we seek out stockists who share that same passion and purpose. We look for professional partners who are not only committed to delivering exceptional client outcomes but who also demonstrate a genuine dedication to ongoing education and growth. For us, it’s about aligning with therapists who view skincare as a lifelong craft—those who are constantly refining their knowledge, embracing innovation, and striving to provide the most advanced, results-driven treatments possible.”

Talk us through what being a HydroPeptide stockist looks like, including the onboarding process, training offered, and ongoing support.

“The PBS onboarding process is one of the most thorough and supportive in the industry. We provide in-depth brand training to equip our partners with the knowledge and tools needed for success. Our expert Business Development Managers work closely with you to write bespoke treatment menus, optimise your website, and design a launch strategy that elevates your business utilising our free ‘Marketing on a Platter’ support. With free marketing materials, promotions to keep the brand fresh, and access to a dedicated training portal and team, we ensure you’re supported every step of the way. At PBS, we are deeply committed to enriching the lives of our salon partners and driving their success.”

What is the minimum opening order with HydroPeptide?

“We understand that every business is unique, which is why we take a tailored approach with every account. It’s not about selling more—it’s about providing exactly what you need to succeed. Our team will create the perfect, personalised solution for your business.”

For businesses interested in partnering with PBS for HydroPeptide, what steps should they take?

“Contact the PBS team today by phone or email - we’re here to discuss how HydroPeptide can elevate your business. Call us at 1800 625 387 or email enquiries@probeautysolutions.com.au. Together, let’s enrich lives through the power of skin health.”

HydroPeptide Partner

Testimonial WITH SKIN DEEP - ONE OF HYDROPEPTIDE’S LONGEST TERM STOCKISTS ACROSS THREE LOCATIONS IN MULLALOO, FLOREAT AND PERTH, WA.

Helen Golisano, for how long have you been a HydroPeptide stockist?

“HYDROPEPTIDE’S FORMULATIONS ARE SOPHISTICATED YET USER-FRIENDLY, MAKING IT THE IDEAL BRIDGE BETWEEN IN-CLINIC TREATMENTS AND LONG-TERM SKIN HEALTH MANAGEMENT.”

What drew you to the brand initially, and keeps you dedicated to the brand today?

“Initially, I was drawn to HydroPeptide’s innovative use of peptide technology and clean cosmeceutical formulations. It offered results without the typical harshness of some clinical brands, which really appealed to our client demographic. Over the years, the brand’s consistency, education, product integrity, and beautiful client experience have kept us committed. I also deeply value their transparency, professional support, and ongoing innovation in ingredient technology and formulation.”

“We were one of the very first HydroPeptide stockists in Australia. Mandy Gray of True Solutions originally launched the brand into Australia and invited the founders of HydroPeptide to Sydney. We met them and immediately placed an order. We’ve never looked back!”

Do you partner with HydroPeptide for backbar? For retail? Or both?

“We utilise HydroPeptide for both backbar and retail, ensuring consistency from treatment room to home care. This continuity allows our clients to experience immediate, visible results post-treatment and continue their skin journey with confidence using tailored at-home regimens. HydroPeptide’s formulations are sophisticated yet user-friendly, making it the ideal bridge between in-clinic treatments and long-term skin health management. Hydropeptide’s Nimni Day and Night creams, Exfoliating Cleanser, Eye Authority, and Solar Defence Tinted Facial Moisturiser are my absolute go-tos everyday!”

Who is the ideal HydroPeptide client?

“HydroPeptide is ideal for clients seeking visible, age-defying results without harsh side effects or downtime. It resonates strongly with clients who value a holistic, science-meets-luxury approach to skincare. From first-time skin clients needing barrier support, to advanced skincare users seeking anti-ageing solutions, the brand caters beautifully across generations and skin types. It’s particularly effective for age management, sensitive skin, and barrier repair, and is perfect for clients committed to both short- and long-term results.”

Why does HydroPeptide stand out from competitor brands in the professional market?

“HydroPeptide strikes the rare balance of clinical performance and sensory luxury. It delivers on results while creating an exceptional client experience. Unlike many clinical brands that lean heavily on active ingredients without considering user experience, HydroPeptide products are a joy to use, beautifully packaged, and supported by a strong brand ethos around skin health and ageing well. It also stands out because it’s backed by scientific research, committed to clean beauty standards, and remains exclusive to professional partners, ensuring it retains its value and credibility in the marketplace.”

Talk us through the training and support offered by Professional Beauty Solutions.

“The training and support provided by Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS) is truly exceptional - it’s one of the key reasons we’ve continued to partner with HydroPeptide. PBS’s approach is thorough, consistent, and tailored to suit the ever-changing needs of modern salons like ours.

Whether it’s through online modules, in-salon hands-on training, or eventbased education, PBS ensures that our team stays up-to-date with product knowledge, treatment protocols, and the latest industry trends. Their educators are knowledgeable, approachable, and genuinely invested in our success, making training not just informative, but also inspiring.

The ongoing support we receive extends far beyond product orders. From marketing support and promotional campaigns, to social media assets and business coaching, PBS is always there to help us grow. We’ve felt completely backed every step of the way, especially during major campaigns and product launches.

Additionally, their Tiered Reward System and Staff Incentives are a huge motivator for our team. These programs create excitement, boost morale, and encourage consistent sales performance, all while rewarding loyalty and hard work.

In short, PBS isn’t just a supplier - they’re a true partner in our business success. Their dedication to training, support, and salon growth makes them an absolute winner in our eyes.” ■

STAIRWAY TO

Heaven

Settled into a brand new and elite space, Diandra Politano caught up with Hannah Gay to talk business expansion, personal wellbeing, and navigating ‘the hustle’.

Few beauty spaces I visit have lent themselves to a visceral response in me quite like Diandra Politano’s new Balmain hub did. Reaching the top of her ‘stairway to heaven’, as I like to refer to it, I found my breath literally taken away; jaw dropped as I peered into an unexpectedly expansive space housed in one of the suburb’s original nineteenth-century sandstone buildings.

“The building itself has such a rich history. It was built in 1864, and all the original sandstone is still intact,” Diandra tells me. “Even the floors are original, which adds so much character. Because of heritage restrictions with the council, we’ve had to be really mindful of preserving these details, which I love because it keeps the integrity of the space. There’s something special about working in a place with so much history while bringing in a modern, refined touch to create a beautiful contrast. It reminds me of places I’ve been in Paris or London - you enter this old charming building and inside is always a surprise.”

Diandra describes her space as a take on her very own dream Parisian apartment. And while expansive, feels incredibly warm and welcoming, balancing a neutral colour palette with luxury modern furnishings. “I wanted to create an environment that feels high-end but never clinical; somewhere my clients can truly switch off and feel at home; an environment to help regulate the nervous system. Think soft neutral tones, textured linens, buttery yellows, and fifty shades of cream.” She lists elements like chrome, chocolate browns and sculptural furniture to finish the look. And while she sees the space as “ever evolving”, her intention is not to fill every corner, but to curate it with “intention, purpose, and love”. “There are minimalist moments, but that’s the beauty of having your own space - you can keep refining and recreating it over time.”

“I’m highly sensitive to my environment, so every element has been designed with purpose and meaning. Loads of natural light filter through sheer drapery, carrying the subtle scent of something grounding in the air. It’s all about that sensory experience, from the plush treatment beds to the curated skincare displays. My architect Laura Stanton doesn’t typically do shop fit outs (she

focuses on high-end homes) with the rare exception of a boutique or two, so that made her the perfect fit for bringing this vision to life.” Diandra plans to also utilise the space for wellness events and masterclasses, making the most of its grand entrance and large reception area.

State-of-the-art sound proofing has been installed to provide a private and cocooning feel to treatment rooms. “My builders at Impression Projects are so clever, they actually made soundproofing blend perfectly with the gorgeous wall mouldings and detailing - you can’t even tell it is there!” Like her ethos to work, Diandra says her intention behind electing such design elements was to craft something “considered, timeless and never overcomplicated”. She adds, “there is a fine balance when you are fitting out a clinic - often you need to be careful you are not losing sight of function.”

Photography: Supplied

“THERE IS A FINE BALANCE WHEN YOU ARE FITTING OUT A CLINIC - OFTEN YOU NEED TO BE CAREFUL YOU ARE NOT LOSING SIGHT OF FUNCTION.”

Diandra’s story is one of authentic and natural growth. Starting her solo business from the front room of her parents’ home, to later opening her very own pad on Sydney’s sought-after Darling Street in Balmain, through to today - opening a new, expanded space catering to five staff members and a sophisticated clientele list. Luck has seemingly always played on Diandra’s side. In the eight years since our first meeting, the business owner has built on her success two-fold. Of course, success has not come without its challenges. “It’s easy to see the highlights from the outside! After ten years of tirelessly working for other people, I was ready to put that effort into my own thing, but then there comes the challenges of that as well,” she admits.

“Physically, being a facialist is demanding. I spend long hours on my feet, and there’s an emotional component as well, as I’m not just treating skin but also holding space for clients who often share deeply personal things. Financially, the transition from working solo to running a full-fledged clinic came with major investments, expanding my space, bringing on staff, and ensuring the business remains sustainable, keeping everyone happy! Mentally, I’ve had to navigate the pressure of growth. I love what I do, but there’s always the balance of staying present with my clients while also thinking ahead for the business. There have been times when I’ve felt completely stretched, but I’ve learned that prioritising my own wellbeing - whether it’s through daily rituals, walks with my dog and husband, travel, or simply taking moments to reset - is what allows me to continue showing up at my best.”

17 years on from commencing her career, Diandra says she’s finally ready to move away from the ‘hustle’ and instead find space to pause.

“It’s getting so old, right? These days, I try to put things to the side that do not deserve my energy. I say ‘no’ more often and I’m much firmer about not overbooking myself.” At the time of interview, Diandra’s books were filled nine months in advance with a closed-off waitlist – a fortunate problem to have. “It’s just too hard to make promises to new clients. I would much rather they have better care with my team who are more available and can build a treatment plan with them,” she says.

Despite her busy schedule, Diandra has found joy in managing a team, naming it one of the more “fun” aspects of business ownership.

She sees that communication “is everything” and believes in the importance of playing into the individual strengths, learning styles, and ways of working of each member. “I’ve had to refine how I guide, support, and empower them while maintaining consistency across the clinic. I’ve also learned the importance of setting boundaries, not just with clients, but within my team, to create a work environment where everyone feels valued and clear on expectations.” For Diandra, her team’s wellbeing is her number one priority. “We work in a service-based industry where we treat clients on such a personal level. If we’re burnt out or unhappy, it just won’t work. I never want my clinic to be a place where people feel unsupported or exhausted. I’m so strong on maintaining a positive, healthy workplace. It’s not just about delivering exceptional treatments; it’s about creating an environment where my staff feel safe, inspired, and genuinely happy to come to work. And I truly believe that when your team thrives, your business thrives, too. I’ve realised that great leadership isn’t about controlling everything, it’s about trusting your team, giving them space to grow, and leading by example.”

And it’s no wonder. One of Diandra’s most admirable traits is her ability to have you feel like the most important person in the room. The time she takes for each and every one of her clients is visible; at no point do you feel rushed. With Diandra, time stands still. Through conversation and touch, her level of care is evident. For what felt like the full duration of my very own 90-minute treatment, Dianda’s hands worked to sculpt my face and release tension from my shoulders and upper back.

In 2022, the dermal therapist was named Australian skincare expert for Dior – a highly coveted position. She described her approach to skincare as “highly personalised”, building a team of therapists that mimic this philosophy. Moving into a larger premises has allowed her team to expand its clientele, providing a consistent level of care and expertise across the board.

Passing on her skills is a goal Diandra hopes to achieve in the future, holding a passion for education. “Education has been a huge part of my own journey, and I’ve seen firsthand how powerful the right training can be in shaping a therapist’s skillset and confidence. Right now, my focus is on refining my team’s expertise, but in the future, I’d love to create a platform that shares my approach with a wider audience. Whether that’s through online courses or mentorship programs, I want to help elevate the standard of facial treatments in Australia and beyond. The clinic is also huge, so I will definitely hold some in-person courses. I just need to make sure I am ready to offer something truly valuable and unique.” ■

LAN Bathhouse Surfer’s Paradise

Epitomising luxury, style and innovation, the latest in a string of bathhouses to open here at home is LAN. No stone was left unturned (or underutilised) in LAN’s design phase. The space features not one, but six magnesium infused spas of differing temperatures for guests looking for a spot of hydrotherapy or muscle recovery support. Massage, body and head spa treatments are also on offer. Additional bathhouse features include a singing bowl for healing, and custom-built wall profiling dozens of essential oils. Bath-goers can also grab a drink at LAN’s in-house bar.

Browco

Brow & Lash Bar

Indooroopilly

Convenience meets premium at Brisbane’s newest salon catering to all things brows and lashes. Browco has opened the latest in its string of beauty hotspots along the east coast, offering essential brow and facial waxing, tint, lamination, and lash extension services. Seven lash extension types are available, as well as Browco’s signature Airbrush brow treatment in up to five shades.

Words: Hannah Gay | Photography: Supplied

SOAK Elwood

Off the back of SOAK’s successful South Yarra location, the beauty salon-meets-licensed bar has opened a second spot in Melbourne’s Elwood. The space serves as a meeting place for community members to connect over a spot of self-care. “SOAK goes beyond a typical salon experience. Staff and technicians develop genuine connections with clients, fostering a sense of trust and belonging, for a beauty experience like no other,” says SOAK Owner and Managing Director, Carlie Lansdown. The unique concept provides salon-goers the chance to indulge in an aperol spritz and cheeseboard, alongside their mani-pedis. Guests can elect from a range of services, from facials to waxes, makeup to tanning.

SHINING A LIGHT ON

Sun Protection

By Rachel Medlock

AUSTRALIA’S RELATIONSHIP with the sun is famously complex. As a nation, we cherish our outdoor lifestyle, yet we carry one of the highest skin cancer rates in the world, with two in three Australians developing some form of skin cancer by age 70. Coupled with recent clarity on GST guidelines and shifting consumer behaviours, the SPF landscape in Australia gives professional beauty businesses plenty to think about.

Taxing times for skincare brands

The Australian Tax Office (ATO) recently reinforced its longstanding stance: only products marketed principally as sunscreen qualify for GST exemption. That means multipurpose products, like BB creams, foundations, and moisturisers containing SPF, must clearly prioritise sun protection in their marketing, or potentially face a 10% price increase.

Some B2C skincare brands are concerned that higher prices could discourage consumers from purchasing SPF-inclusive products. But for skin therapists, this clarification reaffirms what our industry has known and advised for decades: multipurpose products and adequate sun protection rarely go hand-in-hand.

Lisa Paone, Head of Education at Derma Aesthetics, explains why consumers still reach for multifunctional products despite our industry's ongoing advice. She notes that one of the biggest barriers is the desire for simplicity in skincare routines, as “consumers prefer multifunctional products that combine skincare, sun protection, and makeup in one step, believing this approach saves time without compromising effectiveness. However, SPF in makeup is often applied too sparingly to provide adequate protection.”

Realistically, would your client apply an entire teaspoon of foundation or BB cream to achieve full SPF coverage? Unless they're prepping for a Snooki lookalike contest, probably not. As Lisa puts it, “many individuals avoid standalone sunscreens due to concerns about texture, greasiness, or how the product may interact with makeup.”

Consumers are getting savvier about SPF

It's not all doom and gloom. Australian consumers are becoming savvier, with daily SPF usage doubling since 2018. Rather than just looking at SPF numbers, they’re increasingly paying attention to specific ingredients and formulations.

Lisa agrees, sharing that consumers should choose a sunscreen that suits their skin type and lifestyle. She explains, “lightweight, noncomedogenic options for oily or acne-prone skin and hydrating, nourishing formulations with added

“PROVIDING EDUCATION HAS ALWAYS BEEN A CRITICAL STEP IN DRIVING BETTER SUN PROTECTION PRACTICES AMONG CONSUMERS. EDUCATED THERAPISTS CAN DISPEL COMMON MYTHS, RECOMMEND THE RIGHT FORMULATIONS, AND INTEGRATE SUN PROTECTION INTO A HOLISTIC SKIN HEALTH PLAN.”

antioxidants for dry or sensitive skin. Mineral-based sunscreens containing Zinc Oxide or Titanium Dioxide offer gentle yet effective protection, while chemical filters like Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine and Octyl Triazone provide advanced, photostable coverage without fear of white cast.”

She emphasises that, in the harsh Australian climate, "the most important factor is broadspectrum protection, which shields the skin from both UVA rays (responsible for premature ageing) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn). An SPF 50 provides added reassurance, especially in Australia’s high UV environment."

Beyond UV protection, sunscreens are evolving to address additional environmental stressors. Formulations with blue light protection, antioxidant support, and water resistance enhance their benefits, particularly for those exposed to prolonged sun exposure or digital screens.

Lisa explains that brands like SIMKA (distributed by Derma Aesthetics) have differentiated themselves in the sun protection market by prioritising both advanced skin health benefits and user experience in its formulations. “Unlike traditional sunscreens that focus solely on UV protection, SIMKA integrates high-performance skincare ingredients, such as antioxidants, barrier-supporting actives, and hydrating compounds, to enhance skin health while shielding it from environmental aggressors.” She adds, through “elegant, wearable textures created

alongside the concept of Corneotherapy”, consumers are drawn to SIMKA when prioritising skin health alongside wearability.

A sunscreen can have exceptional ingredients, luxurious textures, and industry accolades, but it won't protect your clients' skin sitting on their bathroom shelf. The best sunscreen is the one they love wearing every day—and actually do. Prioritising these attributes in your retail conversations helps tap into growing consumer interest, blending effective sun education seamlessly into the modern skincare experience.

The double-edged sword for skin therapists

Despite ongoing educational efforts, recent Euromonitor International statistics indicate Australia's aftersun care market is booming, currently valued at approximately US$28 million (A$46.7 million), making us the second-largest aftersun market in Asia-Pacific.

Yang Hu, Insights Manager for Health and Beauty Asia at Euromonitor International, says, "The Australian lifestyle, with its outdoor focus, encourages a sun-kissed look but also highlights the need for aftersun care and safer alternatives. With one of the world’s highest UV indexes, sun safety awareness presents significant growth opportunities in the market.”

This statistic presents a double-edged sword for skin therapists. While it confirms that clients are still experiencing sun damage despite longstanding prevention education, it also indicates demand for pigmentation, barrier, texture and tone corrective treatments.

Let’s be realistic. We'd all prefer our clients never to get sunburnt or experience hyperpigmentation, but we’re working with humans here, not robots. If the statistics clearly show clients are seeking solutions for existing damage, then who better to guide them with proactive, results-driven treatments than their trusted skin therapist?

Education is still our strongest tool

Ultimately, ongoing education remains our most valuable asset, with Lisa highlighting the powerful role educated skin therapists play. Noting they're often the first point of contact for skincare advice, she adds, “Providing education has always been a critical step in driving better sun protection practices among consumers. Educated therapists can dispel common myths, recommend the right formulations, and integrate sun protection into a holistic skin health plan.”

Considering that research published last year found that deaths from nonmelanoma skin cancers have nearly doubled in Australia over the past two decades, our industry's ongoing conversations around adequate sun protection are as important as ever.

This is where your consultation experience, especially using advanced skin analysis technology, really shines. By visibly demonstrating sun damage beneath the skin's surface, you give clients a powerful, visual understanding of the real-life consequences of inadequate sun protection. Moreover, showing imagery of how effective sunscreen application appears under UV imaging, particularly highlighting missed areas, can provide that impactful 'wake-up call' clients sometimes need to adopt better sun-safe habits.

The current landscape doesn't change our industry's stance; it reinforces it. While the rise in aftersun product use can feel alarming, skin therapists are perfectly positioned to not only guide clients towards dedicated sun protection but also educate and empower them through corrective solutions when damage has occurred.

After all, in an industry built on trust, expertise, and genuine care, advocating for sun protection isn't just smart business, it’s the kind of lifesaving care our industry has always championed. ■

THE Right FIT

PB asked salon owners around Australia what they’d look for in an emerging beauty therapist if hiring in 2025, and where education institutions can help bridge the student-employee gap.

Robyn McAlpine, Founder & Owner at SkintifiX (NSW)

“When employing therapists emerging into the beauty industry, my focus is on hiring those with a willingness to learn. This is far more important than skills and credentials on a piece of paper. I’m aware that during their training, new beauty therapists haven’t always had the opportunity to master their craft via the repetition and practice that helps them fine tune their skills. It’s also no secret that theory knowledge taught from a textbook in a classroom environment doesn’t always translate to real salon life. Learning about a skin condition in theory is very different to working with the living breathing human being on the facial bed.

I would love to see training institutions better prepare students with realistic expectations of their skillset, preparing them to join a salon in a starting role, encouraging them to continue learning post-graduation as every great therapist knows that a spirit of learning is the key to industry growth and success.”

Isobella Outtram, Founder at Sukha Skin and Wellness (QLD)

“As an employer, I look for therapists who are not only skilled but deeply teachable, with a desire to support clients beyond the aesthetic. At Sukha, we believe that beauty therapy is not just about skin - it’s about holding space for women to breathe, feel, and reconnect with themselves. Emotional intelligence, intuition, and the ability to adapt to a client’s energy are just as important as technical skill. I would love to see modern education institutions integrate more holistic and wellness-based training into their curricula, encouraging future therapists to understand the nervous system, emotional regulation, and the power of presence. Even offering wellness electives would create more well-rounded graduates equipped for the evolving needs of today’s clients. Our industry is changing, and our education should evolve with it.”

Samantha Tink, Owner at Natural Soul Beauty (SA)

“I have been employing staff for over ten years and during this time I have learnt about myself as a boss and in finding the ones who suit my business. I’m still learning and I think I always will when it comes to employing staff. I’ve had staff who are being trained while they are working for me, qualified and not experienced, and some with plenty of years of experience. Some have held a Certificate II, through to a Diploma from a TAFE or a college. It doesn’t matter what kind of certificate they have, as I still need to work with them. I have had the incorrect assumption that because they are Diplomaqualified, they may not need that one-on-one help, but they do.

I think modern education is still missing out on the ‘fussy’ tips, and being able to really watch students. It can be as easy as in how they are holding the nail clippers, or in how they are pulling a wax strip.”

“TECHNIQUE LAYS THE FOUNDATION, BUT IT’S HOW A THERAPIST SHOWS UP THAT BUILDS LASTING TRUST.”

Gabrielle Ingle, Founder & Director at Blanc Spa

Gabrielle Ingle, Founder & Director at Blanc Spa (VIC)

“Spa work is intimate. Clients arrive not just for a treatment, but for how they want to feel – safe, seen and supported. At Blanc Spa, we look for therapists who can hold space with calm, empathy and professionalism. Emotional intelligence and selfawareness matter as much as technical aptitude. Client experience is everything. Therapists who approach their work with curiosity, intention and commitment to growth create trust-based relationships that evolve over time. Adopting a longterm lens not only leads to better business outcomes – it cultivates confidence, purpose and a more fulfilling career.

Blanc Spa values therapists who understand their 'why' – why they chose this path, and why presence matters. Education providers could support this by embedding reflective practice, client psychology and realworld experience into the curriculum. Technique lays the foundation, but it’s how a therapist shows up that builds lasting trust. That’s what clients remember, and what truly elevates a therapist.”

Interviews:

Georgie Westley, Co-Owner & Director at The Skin Hub (VIC)

“When I’m hiring, I am looking at personality, presentation and vocabulary. I think speech is extremely important - clear and articulate to me, is important. I also look not only at qualifications, but also experience. If there is someone that can prove their knowledge and skills from in-salon training, yet only hold a Certificate III or short course credentials, I will often hire them if I see potential over someone who has done a Diploma, but doesn’t seem to have much drive or ambition. I’m always open to getting my team educated to fill any gaps in training and upskill them. This may be controversial, but I see that the proof is in the hands, not necessarily the paper. I certainly think modern education can, at times, lack current and skilled trainers. Many trainers may have to do ‘pd’s’ to stay ‘current’, however a course every few months doesn’t amount to hands-on clients. Trainers who work on the tools a couple days a week are always better educators, I believe. An experience is what you make it. It’s not usually the institution that needs to change - it’s the person doing the course who [comes in with a] closed mind or with unrealistic expectations. The majority of skill comes from in-salon training and ongoing handson client work. Perhaps training facilities look at holding support workshops in units of self-love, positivity and motivation?”

Amy Jean, Founder & Creative Director at Amy Jean Brows (Australia wide)

“When expanding my team and hiring emerging artists, I place high value on those who show a genuine eagerness to learn and grow; attitude is everything. While training the foundations is essential, it’s often one-onone education that shapes an artist's potential. We find the most success when training is structured for the individual, building on their natural strengths and previous experience, rather than taking a one-size-fitsall approach.

Education institutions can prepare students by focusing more on real-world case studies, one-on-one training, and nurturing confidence in communication and technique. Beauty is such a personal industry and we operate in close proximity to the client - empathy, precision and adaptability is hard to teach in a crowded classroom. Personalised mentorship makes all the difference in preparing emerging artists for the workplace and optimum client experience.”

Bee Czarnota, Founder at The BEETOX Method™️(VIC)

“My business growth has genuinely been capped by this very issue. When hiring, I look for candidates with certification in beauty or dermal therapy, but more importantly, a genuine passion for biology and wellness. To truly understand the intricacies of the lymphatic system and how we complement more typical beauty treatments, therapists need a deeper awareness of the body, not just the skin. Right now, no formal beauty or dermal training covers the breadth of knowledge required to create real impact in the lymphatic space. That gap led me to create The Lymphatic Wellness Academy - a professional training space that equips therapists to work holistically and with confidence. Modern education could better support graduates by expanding beyond textbook beauty to include functional anatomy, wellness principles, and hands-on experience that mirrors real client needs. The future of beauty lies in integration, and education is where it begins.”

“WHEN HIRING, I FOCUS ON ENSURING THAT CANDIDATES ALIGN WITH OUR CORE VALUES AND POSSESS A PERSONALITY THAT COMPLEMENTS OUR TEAM, AS I BELIEVE SKILLS CAN ALWAYS BE DEVELOPED FURTHER.”

Melissa Young, Founder at Melissa Young Beauty

Melissa Young, Founder at Melissa Young Beauty (NSW)

“I prioritise candidates who hold a minimum of a Diploma in Beauty Therapy, reflecting the specialised services offered at my salon. This educational foundation is essential for ensuring that therapists possess a comprehensive understanding of the industry. I particularly value beauty colleges that provide students with practical experience through their student clinics. This handson training is invaluable, as it allows new therapists to transition smoothly into their first professional roles with a solid base of practical experience. To further support skill development, my salon offers extensive training for all staff members. This includes mandatory training sessions several times a year, along with a full day of in-house training every 6-8 weeks as a refresher. When hiring, I focus on ensuring that candidates align with our core values and possess a personality that complements our team, as I believe skills can always be developed further. Modern educational institutions could enhance their programs by increasing opportunities for practical, real-world experience, better preparing graduates for the demands of the workplace.”

WHY ONGOING EDUCATION IS CRUCIAL FOR SUCCESS IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY

By Tara Kathrada

WHETHER YOU’RE a clinic owner, treating therapist, cosmetic practitioner or educator, the beauty industry is ever-changing and constantly evolving, making it one of the most exciting yet challenging fields to work in.

Throughout my time in the industry, I have seen new techniques, products, and technologies introduced regularly. Consumer preferences tend to shift just as quickly due to trends or niches in the market. The beauty industry is fast-paced, therefore staying informed, educated, and adaptable is crucial for success. This is where ongoing education plays an imperative role.

As a beauty professional, I have come to realise that upskilling and continuous learning isn’t just a luxury, but a necessity in our field; their importance cannot be overstated. Mastering a new skill set or simply enhancing your current one will help you to stay relevant and build a long-lasting career.

Certification and specialisation

Additional certifications and specialised training in areas such as advanced dermal therapies, IPL, laser hair removal, advanced skincare, or skin needling can set you apart from others in the industry. Specialising in a niche service can attract more clients to your business, expand your future job opportunities, and give you an edge in a competitive market. Plus, clients today seek professionals who can provide an array of beauty treatments. Education enables beauty professionals to broaden their offerings.

Improved

client results

Understanding the science behind skin conditions and how to provide an indepth consultation process enables you to offer more effective and personalised treatments. Doing so leads to better results for your clients and higher overall client satisfaction. This also builds trust between the client and the professional, as they see the that professional is well educated in their field.

Business growth

Undertaking education in areas such as marketing, customer service, and financial management can help you build a stronger beauty business. Practicing in these areas that help to build brand awareness and position your business as a leader

in the field to your target audience. Educational workshops from other beauty professionals sharing their marketing strategies can assist with taking your beauty business to the next step of success.

Meeting legal, health, and safety standards

Beauty professionals must adhere to strict health and safety regulations to protect their clients and maintain a positive reputation. Whether it's knowing how to prevent the spread of infections by following proper hygiene practices, utilising appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), or adhering to established protocols in a clinical or related setting. Proper knowledge in this area ensures professionals stay compliant with legal and health standards. This is particularly important in the growing sector of skin and cosmetic treatments where new procedures and products are constantly being introduced. Ensuring that these services are performed safely is paramount, and ongoing education ensures that beauty professionals remain up-to-date with the latest in regulations and best practice.

Learning about new technologies and tools

Technology is changing the way beauty services are delivered. With new devices continuously introduced into the market, beauty professionals need to be confident and skilled in using them to industry standard. Ongoing education is essential to learn how to effectively use new technology and equipment.

Keeping up with trends and techniques

The beauty industry thrives on creativity and innovation with constant evolving trends. Attending industry conferences, tradeshows and educational facilities ensures professionals remain privy to the latest trends, techniques and equipment on offer. To stay ahead in the beauty industry, education should be viewed not just as a requirement but as an investment in your future. ■

Tara Kathrada is the owner of GLOW Aesthetics and Director/Mentor at BBOSS. With extensive qualifications in beauty, tech, and training, she has worked as a BDM and educator for top skincare brands. Tara is also pursuing a Bachelor of Nursing.

Join us at BEAUTY EXPO AUSTRALIA 2025!

BEAUTY EXPO Australia unites the beauty industry in the country’s largest celebration of all things beauty over one weekend. Be inspired with this unparalleled opportunity for connection and inspiration with a community of like-minded professionals. Join us at the ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, on Saturday 16 August 9am – 5pm and Sunday 17 August 9am – 5pm.

Now more than ever, prioritising your professional growth and well-being is essential. Staying on top of the latest trends, procedures, products, and innovations is key to making 2025 a year of success.

TOP REASONS TO ATTEND BEAUTY EXPO 2025

SPOTLIGHT: WELLNESS

With a unique theme each year, Spotlight is a dedicated space showcasing a mix of new and original Beauty Expo brands focused on specific trends, themes, and attributes within the industry. In 2025, we are shining a spotlight on Wellness. As consumer demand for holistic beauty and self-care skyrockets, this exclusive space at Beauty Expo 2025 is your gateway to the future of beauty and wellbeing. It’s more than just a showcase—it’s a curated experience that connects innovation with self-care, featuring the latest in cutting-edge beauty, wellness, and lifestyle solutions.

From advanced health technologies and clean beauty breakthroughs to mindfulness tools and sustainable self-care essentials, this is where beauty meets balance. Whether you’re looking to elevate your brand, discover the next big thing, or connect with like-minded industry leaders, this is the space that will keep you ahead of the curve.

NEW FEATURE: K-BEAUTY

Experience the latest in K-Beauty, a brand-new feature area at Beauty Expo Australia 2025. Discover groundbreaking skincare, innovative beauty routines, and the science behind some of the most soughtafter Korean beauty trends. Meet top K-Beauty brands who will showcase the newest advancements in this globally recognised beauty phenomenon.

FACE2FACE MAKEUP AWARDS

The Face2Face Makeup Awards celebrate the craft, creativity, and passion of extraordinary makeup

artists. Designed as a supportive and inclusive competition, this platform allows artists at any level to challenge themselves under competitive conditions.

Returning again in 2025, this must-enter competition provides an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth and industry recognition. Internationally acclaimed, multi-award-winning makeup artist Isabelle De Vries continues as Creative Director, bringing her expertise in challenging trends and redefining beauty standards.

Categories include:

• Bridal (LIVE) – A Timeless Romance

• Fashion Editorial (LIVE) – Trend Prediction

• Beauty Editorial (PHOTOGRAPHIC)* – Ethereal Beauty

• Creative Makeup (LIVE) – Under The Ocean

*All categories, except Beauty Editorial, will be judged live at the event.

THE AUSTRALIAN BEAUTY & AESTHETICS CONFERENCE

Engage in over 30 sessions of immersive education that provide cutting-edge insights, innovations, and skills to enhance your business and professional expertise. The Australian Beauty & Aesthetic Conference (ABAC) spans two days of feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, case studies, and educational sessions tailored around the business of beauty, wellness, and aesthetics.

Curate your own conference experience by selecting sessions that align with your interests and business needs.

200+ LEADING BRANDS

Shop from Australia’s largest collection of professional beauty brands and products across 32 categories, including Advanced Cosmeceuticals, Beauty Technology, ClinicalPRO, Crown Brush Australia, elleebana, Murad, Tweeny Skin and many more.

THE BUSINESS COUCH

Need personalised guidance from industry experts? Book a free 30-minute consultation with specialists in salon management, sales and marketing, training, and business development. Gain expert insights tailored to your unique business needs and take your salon or beauty enterprise to the next level.

BEAUTY LIVE

Experience Beauty Live, the must-visit demonstration area showcasing real-time techniques and trends in brows, skincare, lashes, makeup, and more. Watch industry experts in action, learn about the latest innovations, and get your questions answered by professionals at the forefront of beauty.

TICKET OPTIONS

Whether you want to explore all the sessions or focus on discovering incredible brands, we have a ticket option to suit you. Take advantage of early bird rates and secure your place at Beauty Expo Australia 2025. Head over to the beauty expo website, to book yours now.

We look forward to welcoming you to Beauty Expo Australia 2025, where inspiration, innovation, and industry excellence come together for an unmissable event. ■

COSMETIC TATTOOING: HOW TO BRING SCALP MICROPIGMENTATION INTO YOUR BUSINESS

Surging in popularity, the revolutionary semipermanent hair loss treatment must be introduced to your clients safely, discovers Kristie Lau-Adams.

SERUMS, PILLS, foams, transplantation — remedying hair loss in Australia is a saturated market. While various lifestyle and environmental factors, plus genetics, contribute to our population’s vanishing manes, research reveals that approximately 50% of Australian men show signs of balding by the time they’re 50. The Journal of Investigative Dermatology Symposium Proceedings’ 2005 study also found that more than a quarter of Australian women experience hair thinning by the same age. It’s little wonder that treating diminishing locks has become a lucrative business.

A remedy gaining significant steam is Scalp Micropigmentation (SMP), commonly referred to as a hair tattoo. The semipermanent cosmetic tattooing procedure is renowned for recreating the depth and definition of natural hair. Originally famed for enhancing brows and pouts, cosmetic tattooing only emerged in Australian clinics as a treatment for the scalp about a decade ago.

Rob McGowan, CEO of Australia’s first registered cosmetic tattooing training organisation, THink Aesthetics in Brisbane, says SMP has also been embraced due to its stimulation of individual hair follicles to enhance a natural appearance. It’s a meticulous procedure that requires specialised training. “When any new aesthetic treatment arrives, people want in on the action,” Rob explains. “But there is a great deal to learn. The cosmetic tattooing industry took a big step forward in recent years by introducing the Diploma of Cosmetic Tattooing, which provides an SMP option with detailed theory and practical training.”

“ORIGINALLY FAMED FOR ENHANCING BROWS AND POUTS, COSMETIC TATTOOING ONLY EMERGED IN AUSTRALIAN CLINICS AS A TREATMENT FOR THE SCALP ABOUT A DECADE AGO.”

While the government-accredited Diploma serves as welcomed progress, Rob warns business owners against succumbing to inadequate training programs. “SMP training can be fantastic or terrible,” Rob says. “Anyone can call themselves an SMP trainer because there are no regulations. Anywhere there is a few thousands of dollars to make, and no barriers for entry, you will find bad practices. It is vital to choose a trainer and training course carefully.”

Rob recommends signing up with a training organisation that facilitates the Diploma as well as non-accredited training methods such as THink Aesthetics’ initiative to work on live models. In addition to suitable training, business owners will need to invest in the proper equipment to administer SMP. “Machine costs range from a few hundred dollars to a maximum of $5,000,” Rob details. “It pays to buy the best quality needle cartridges to be able to work quickly, effectively, and safely. With a big treatment, you might get through two or three needle cartridges at up to $17 each.”

Be mindful of purchasing pigment, too, an ongoing maintenance cost that, thankfully, shouldn’t break the bank. Rob estimates that an $80 bottle of pigment “will typically do several treatments,” as technicians don’t need to use very much each time.

Business owners will also need to secure a council licence to facilitate a service that involves skin penetration. The rules around achieving a licence vary between states and territories. “In Queensland, for example, each person performing a treatment must hold an infection control qualification and the business must have a Personal Appearance Service (PAS) licence,” Rob says. “The

premises or room will also typically require a sealed floor and skirting boards, wash basins in the treatment room and more.”

As for the treatment itself, SMP tends to be performed across two to three sessions of two to three hours of work, however minor density treatments may only require one session. “Recovery is usually quite rapid, with post-treatment erythema typically lasting hours rather than days,” Rob says.

“The client needs to keep the scalp dry for the first few days. As with any cosmetic tattoo, the pigment is darker to start with and naturally fades by about 30% as it is incorporated into the skin.”

Liz McGowan, managing director at THink Aesthetics, admits that establishing a dedicated SMP business is challenging due to the limitations it puts on potential revenue. “We usually steer people away from starting a business only doing SMP as building it to a sustainable level could take more than a year,” Liz explains. Instead, she advises business owners to add SMP to their repertoire, so they continue to bring in customers elsewhere.

Alternatively, if the idea of launching a new business that focuses on SMP, among other services, appeals, Liz says piggybacking SMP on other forms of cosmetic tattooing is smart.

“Particularly eyebrows, which are popular and have a big market,” she says. “In particular, 'guy brows' are seeing increased demand. Business owners have plenty of options in the world of cosmetic tattooing right now.” ■

“RECOVERY IS USUALLY QUITE RAPID, WITH POST-TREATMENT ERYTHEMA TYPICALLY LASTING HOURS RATHER THAN DAYS.”

UNITED FORWARD: NAVIGATING THE ABS OSCA (ANZSCO) OCCUPATION REVIEW & BUILDING A FUTURE-ALIGNED INDUSTRY

By Stefanie Milla, CEO & Director, The Aesthetic and Beauty Industry Council (ABIC).

IN 2025, our industry faces both scrutiny and opportunity. Recent media coverage and internal confusion have tested our unity, however we experience significant progress when we foster a culture of collaboration.

Early Advocacy: Laying the Groundwork

In 2021–2022, while ABIC was still forming, the 2021 Census, and a four-year review of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) - Australian and New Zealand Standard Classification of Occupations (ANZSCO), now renamed the Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA), created a vital opportunity.

a shared goal of securing meaningful recognition for the skills and scope that underpin our sector.

The 2024 Outcome: Key Decisions by ABS

In December 2024, the ABS released its final classification decisions:

• Dermal Therapist occupation is complete, and has received its own code 461132, Skill Level 2, acknowledging advanced clinical practice.

• Dermal Clinician was designated under Health Professionals (NEC), Skill Level 1, however has not yet received its own code, further progress is needed.

Cosmetic Nurse was designated under the broader Registered Nurse category, Skill Level 1, steps remain before specific code recognition is achieved.

• Beautician and Beauty Therapist were designated together under code 461131, Skill Level 3, the process is underway to separate them and correct the Skill Levels. This result reflects the ongoing process that all sectors - beauty, dermal and aesthetics are still working through to achieve full recognition.

The Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians (ASDC) responded by encouraging dermal professionals to record their titles in the Census, supporting workforce planning.

During Consultation Round 2 (Allied Health), ASDC then formally proposed the inclusion of dermal professionals. While their proposal was strong, the ABS deferred the decision to Round 3 (Personal Services), needing further evaluation and data.

Defining the Future: The Personal Services Classification Review

In October 2023, the ABS began its review of Personal Services occupations. ABIC, now well established, submitted a comprehensive proposal, backed by industry, outlining five classifications:

• Beautician – Skill Level 3

• Beauty Therapist – Skill Level 2

• Dermal Therapist – Skill Level 2 or 1

• Dermal Clinician – Skill Level 1

• Cosmetic Nurse – Skill Level 1

Backed by labour-force data, mapped qualifications, and consultation with industry stakeholders, ABIC’s submission was well-received. ASDC and SaCSA (Skills and Creative Australia) also submitted focused proposals on dermal and beauty sectors, respectively.

Industry Consultation and a Refined Submission: Strengthening Our Collective Voice

Following ABS’s 2024 draft release, which proposed merging Beautician and Beauty Therapist (Skill Level 3) and introducing a new Dermal Therapist code, ABIC launched a second national consultation process:

• Hosted an industry-wide info session

• Conducted a national survey with nearly 700 respondents

• Consulted extensively with industry stakeholders

• Convened its Regulation Committee to review feedback

The result was a refined, unified and collaborative submission, calling for clearly separated, evidencebacked occupational classifications. This true, cross-industry effort brought together peak bodies, education partners, and front-line professionals with

Why Beautician and Beauty Therapist Weren’t Separated

The ABS did not separate Beautician and Beauty Therapist because the current Certificate IV and Diploma of Beauty Therapy qualifications are too similar in scope.

The ABS suggested retiring the Diploma, which raised concerns about oversimplifying the sector, however in consultation with ABIC, stakeholders have instead advised they support retaining the Diploma and potentially retiring the Certificate IV to create clear professional distinctions:

1. Certificate III → Beautician (Skill Level 3)

2. Diploma of Beauty Therapy → Beauty Therapist (Skill Level 2).

ABS have shown support for this proposal and will review in 12–24 months, pending national qualification reform, a process already underway, and a significant step forward.

The Road Ahead: Reform and Collaboration

ABIC is leading discussions with SaCSA, the government’s appointed body for education reform. Working with the ABIC Education Committee, the industry is now exploring pathways to clarify and enhance training standards, helping define distinct career paths within the sector.

Reform is a government-led process and will take time, but it is evidence-driven and already in the research phase.

The Power of Unity: A Shared Success

The progress made on each occupation is the result of collaboration. The ABS itself acknowledged the impact of this partnership in written correspondence: “your [ABIC] submission (and those of a few other organisations) was instrumental for demonstrating the differences, for example between Dermal Therapist and Beauty Therapist. We could clearly show that Dermal Therapist was a higher skill level (linked to an Advanced Diploma).

This recognition highlights what’s possible when peak bodies and industry stakeholders unite toward a shared goal.

Truth and Transparency: Let’s Elevate the Conversation

While the progress is substantial, misinformation still circulates in the industry. Transparency and professional dialogue are critical. Check your sources, seek clarity, and champion unity and respectful communication.

A Final Word: We Are Stronger Together

This journey has been about more than occupational codes, it’s been about visibility, safety, recognition, and progress. It’s a declaration that our sector is filled with highly trained, passionate professionals who deserve to be acknowledged and respected.

Let this be a turning point, not just in classification, but in culture, because only together can we achieve the future we all want: a strong, respected, nationally recognised beauty and aesthetic industry. ■

Follow us on Instagram for updates @aestheticbeautycouncil. To get involved in the ABIC Education Committee, visit www.theabic.org.au/abic-education-committee. Photography: iStock/shurkin_son

Interested in becoming a stockist? Scan the QR code to find out more.

A LITTLE TOUCH GOES A LONG WAY

In times of economic downturn, beauty therapy’s hands-on approach serves to sustain the industry. Why? Because people will always pay to be nurtured. Three high-touch technicians speak candidly on beauty therapy’s recession-proof appeal.

Isabella Loneragan, award-winning owner of Isabella Ragan Skin, psychology graduate, and master of facial massage: “Even during economic downturns, people prioritise experiences that provide deep and tangible care - especially care involving human touch. Over my two decades of work in psychology, dermal therapy, facial massage, product formulation and business ownership, I’ve seen first-hand that touch therapy is more than an aesthetic service; it’s a fundamental human need.

The psychological need for human connection

Stress, uncertainty and financial strain are all common experiences in economic downtowns and heighten the need for nervous system regulation, which touch-therapy treatments provide. Studies in psychodermatology - a field I incorporate into all aspects of my work - confirm that facial massage and hands-on treatments can reduce cortisol levels, increase oxytocin and create a sense of emotional grounding.

The same pattern repeated after the pandemic lockdowns when people clearly craved human touch and emotional restoration. After the second pandemic lockdown, and despite the reported high risk of contracting COVID-19 at the time, the day we were permitted to accept bookings saw us book-out eight weeks’ worth of facial treatments within two hours.

Hands-on therapy as a recession-proof investment

I have always been drawn to therapies that provide both aesthetic and emotional transformation, which is at the very heart of my master treatment: The Intrinsic Illumination Infusion. It’s a facial that delivers sculpting and lifting but moreover, its magic lies in the way it soothes the nervous system through hands-on therapy techniques – namely Buccal, Kobido, and Chinese Chuanzhi acupressure. It’s effectively a form of neurocosmetics, which is a fascinating notion focussed on the brain-skin connection. Virtually every client who has experienced the treatment expresses feeling lighter, more centred and calmer.

“CLIENTS DON’T JUST SEEK TREATMENTS FOR THEIR SKIN AND OUTER APPEARANCE; THEY SEEK RELIEF FROM THE MENTAL AND EMOTIONAL WEIGHT THEY CARRY, TOO.”

Clients don’t just seek treatments for their skin and outer appearance; they seek relief from the mental and emotional weight they carry, too. For example, when I was practicing in South Africa during the global financial crisis of 2008, clients told me they’d cut-back on luxury items but considered their regular facial treatments a form of coping with the stress of the GFC.

People may postpone a handbag purchase or Botox treatment more commonly nowadays, but they won’t forgo the feeling of being deeply restored. While advanced machines can enhance results, true client loyalty is built through hands-on care. Many therapists invest in expensive ‘facial tightening’ machines without firstly cultivating trust; machine-based treatments just don’t resonate in the way hands-on therapy does.

My advice: build your client base and their loyalty with your hands. Then, if you know your market will take well enough to machine-based treatments, then introduce the technology – not in the reverse order.

Business resilience and the power of human touch

Longevity in this industry isn’t about selling treatments – it’s about creating experiences that people feel they need, not just want. This is why in my education programmes I focus so heavily on teaching therapists to build trust, retention and revenue by concentrating on human connection. The resilience of hands-on therapy isn’t just theoretical. I’ve lived it through financial crises, a pandemic, and industry shifts. Trends change. The world may change, but the need for touch and human connection remains constant.

People will always find the means to be nurtured because true touch therapy is never just about the skin; it’s multi-faceted. It’s more than just technique - it’s communication, safety, a refuge from life’s stressors, and it’s about the soul. People will pay whatever the cost to be nurtured in this way.”

Interviews: Hannah Gay Photography: Supplied

Sandi Daley, distributor, PR Manager and expert facialist at SOTHYS Australia:

“The uniqueness that is professional beauty therapy is in the mindhands connection.

Across Europe, beauty therapy is seen as a craft and well-respected career. Much like the work of a professional ballerina, the skills required to be a truly exceptional therapist are developed, improved and perfected over time, and this is what generates client appreciation and loyalty.

The connection of the practitioner to the client through human touch has sustained our professional beauty industry for almost 100 years. Jeffrey Daley - my partner in the distribution of SOTHYS here in Australia - tells the story of his Auntie working in David Jones’ beauty salon in 1931 where traditional beauty therapy, centred around hands-on techniques, was practiced. In the midst of The Great Depression, this business was booming.

For the past 50 years in Australia, the nurturing mind-hands foundation of beauty therapy has seen the exponential growth of professional skincare in Australia. Why? Because today more than ever, the need for therapies involving touch, empathy and support are incredibly sought after.

SOTHYS has its own registered massage technique called Digi-Esthétique® which is incorporated into SOTHYS’ advanced, professional Institute treatments done exclusively in the clinic. This skilled massage technique improves skin uptake of actives, stimulates skin energetic meridians, activates lymph and blood circulation and of course, relaxes the mind and senses in the process.

Utilising both eastern and western maneuvers, Sothys Digi-Esthétique® massage is unique to each individual skin treatment, adapting to what support each skin needs.

You know what really makes a therapist's day? When a client leaves the clinic with their skin glowing and their mind and spirit relaxed and revitalised, saying "that was the BEST skin treatment I have ever had!"

“THE CONNECTION OF THE PRACTITIONER TO THE CLIENT THROUGH HUMAN TOUCH HAS SUSTAINED OUR PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY INDUSTRY FOR ALMOST 100 YEARS.”

Gabriel Skalic, founder of atama Head Spa and atama Academy, and hair, scalp, and wellness expert:

“In nearly four decades of working in the hair and wellness industry, I've seen first-hand how economic pressures shift the way people spend their money. What stands out to me isn’t that people will spend ‘whatever it takes’ to be nurtured, but rather how selective they’ve become with their spending. In tough times, they’ll forego the impulse buys and ‘big ticket items’ - the vacations, designer clothing - and instead opt for small indulgences and experiences. With the rise in wellness and health consciousness, people will often choose not to skip out on experiences that feel truly valuable, especially when it comes to their health and wellbeing.

When I started out as a hairdresser 40 years ago, I quickly realised that the salon chair is a space for restoration. Clients come in not only for a new look but for the ritual - the conversation, the touch, the sense of rejuvenation that goes beyond surface level beauty. Even now, as the cost of living rises, we’re seeing that people are investing in wellness experiences that offer a multitude of services and deliver both immediate relief and long-term benefits.

That’s one of the reasons I started atama Head Spa, because I saw an opportunity to bring that deeper, holistic approach to the industry. Our approach to head spa therapy focuses on restoring balance, nurturing the body and, most importantly, offering a transformative experience. It’s about addressing the mind as much as the body. At atama, clients will experience a treatment and leave having had their hair thoroughly cleansed, their skin cared for, and their hair styled - which is all-encompassing and offers value for money. They are not confined to one single self-care service, but multiple services combined into one.

As a business owner and educator, I’ve also seen how the industry needs to evolve in response to economic shifts. I teach professionals that the key to longevity is about understanding what people truly value. Head spa has the opportunity to become thoroughly incorporated into the [beauty and] hairdressing industries as an add-on service that can often fulfill the emotional needs of clients and create additional revenue streams for salons. Head spa is a great example of how, even during economic downturns, the beauty and hair industries don’t collapse, but pivot and innovate, proving their resilience through human-centric care.” ■

“WITH THE RISE IN WELLNESS AND HEALTH CONSCIOUSNESS, PEOPLE WILL OFTEN CHOOSE NOT TO SKIP OUT ON EXPERIENCES THAT FEEL TRULY VALUABLE, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO THEIR HEALTH AND WELLBEING.”

THE LONG GAME

Lillian Nathanael launched her career in beauty in 1987, opening her own space – Beauty Science in Melbourne – in 1994. Lillian reflects on 30 years of success with Hannah Gay.

Describe the Australian beauty industry at the time you commenced your career.

“During that time, there were very few salons (maybe one in each suburb) that offered waxing, electrolysis, facials, body massage, manis, pedis, makeup application, and/or lash tints. Some had a nail bar installed at reception to offer acrylic nails, as nails had not yet become the stand-alone service they are today.

Popular brands that dominated the industry were mainly of French origin and included Clarins, SOTHYS, Thalgo, Decléor, and MATIS. Equipment consisted of the traditional steamer, Iontophoresis, high frequency, and the first hand-held skin analysis tool – Wood’s Lamp - which was the game changer in encouraging clients to use SPF (as most did not).

The American skincare and makeup market was just warming up. In the late ‘90s, we were the first clinic in Melbourne to bring on Dermalogica, which had landed in Australia in 1996. It was the first AHA range to include glycolic skin peels and had exploded onto the market. We were also transitioning into fit-outs that were more clinical-looking and appealing to both genders. This was our big moment to be taken seriously, and to be recognised as professional skincare experts, despite there being a lot of negativity from dermatologists at that time. They saw us as amateurs (in contrast to now, where they work alongside skin therapists).

Computers and Google didn’t exist so everything was done via direct phone calls to landlines, paper diaries, and client cards which would always get misfiled (good luck trying to find them!) Without a digital platform, we relied on expensive ads in The Yellow Pages, word-of-mouth, and store front windows decorated by a professional with a theme each month to attract new clients.

Training was also a little more challenging. There were very few post-graduate courses available, and available via TAFE only, so most training was done through the skincare company you were affiliated with. If you wanted to bring a new concept in, you would have to seek training overseas, which is what I did with cosmetic tattooing. This inspired me to not only look for new concepts to excite our clients, but to also stand out from the competition.

But the real excitement for me came when we installed our first microdermabrasion machine (despite my hatred of them now) and the establishment of the first dermal studies course. After all these years, innovation still excites and motivates me to do better by our clients.”

What were the core beauty services you offered at your business throughout the ‘90s?

“Like most salons at that time, we were a one-stop-shop offering waxing, electrolysis, nail services, facials, body massage and makeup. Other treatments

such as microdermabrasion, microcurrent, AHA peels, and vichy showers became the new buzz – I was all over them all! It was an exciting time for both clinicians and clients.

I also had just trained in cosmetic tattooing which was a very niche service with only a handful of operators in Melbourne. It was a lot of work to establish, that being the marketing of it to our existing clients and relying on word-of-mouth. It was lucrative due to the lack of competition. I loved the creative work it bought with it, as I learned a lot about face shape, balance, and symmetry. And although I didn’t know it at the time, this training would serve me in the future in more ways than I could possibly imagine, especially once I became a cosmetic nurse.

By the late ‘90s, the industry turned to spa. This was the first time the word ‘wellness’ was being thrown around. The arrival of popular brands such as Dermalogica and Aveda made possible the inclusion of ‘body treatments’. Looking back, it was

Photography: Supplied

at this point that the industry was beginning to lead into two separate pathways that would become more defined by 2002: cosmetic or spa-based.

Even though a lot of beauty salons jumped on the spa band wagon (including us), it became clear that we could not sustain that type of business long-term because it brought clients in for a special, occasional treat. Training was also a challenge as the students coming out of colleges did not have the skillset. It proved to be a very time-consuming exercise… the prep and cleaning…as well as requiring a lot of space. Destination spas were on the rise, and they had means and budget far greater than the suburban beauty shop.”

Today, the clinic appears to offer almost all beauty and cosmetic treatments! How many staff do you employ?

“Today we employ five staff that each have specific specialty areas. This way the client can experience expertise in whatever they book in for. We recently revamped our offering by deleting treatments that didn’t work cohesively, or treatments that were no longer in demand.”

I understand Beauty Science is a multi-award-winning clinic…

“In 2024, we won Best Beauty Services at the Local Business Awards. We also won Business of the Year, which was an added surprise! Additionally, we brought home the Best Client Experience Award by Phorest, which was generated from client feedback.”

You’ve personally taken on further training in dermal therapy and cosmetic nursing. How important has further education been to the success of your business?

“Dermal therapy training allows a broader expertise when tackling specific skin conditions. It also increases the scope of practice to include treatments beyond just facials, giving clients greater choice and long-term solutions. It’s also ideal for staff to further enhance their skillset and give them better career opportunities.

Like many skin and beauty clinics, I trialled nurse contractors administering cosmetic injectable services to our clients. This was so we could offer convenience and ensure they were seeing a good operator, and one that would work in with our skin and rejuvenation services in harmony. Sadly, nurses did not collaborate with staff to enhance the clients’ results as anticipated. In my opinion, the subcontracting model within businesses does not work in most cases, as everyone naturally looks after their own work and interests. To my frustration, every time a nurse moved on, so would some of our clients. It wasn’t until my last nurse left in 2016 that I was motivated to take over that area of the business myself. I also agree with the recent TGA stance, enforcing existing rules around the administration of cosmetic practices to protect the consumer.

Most nurses moving into cosmetics do not have any formal dermal qualifications or prior experience in our field. By taking charge of this area, it has not only benefited the business, but also our clients. I encourage any beauty professional out there to take the plunge and do it! You cannot correct everything with a needle and the foundation of healthy skin will always surpass any injection.”

You operated during the 2008 GFC, during the pandemic, and now during a cost-of-living crisis. Tell us about some of the extreme measures you’ve had to take over the years to maintain the standing of your business.

• “Ensure not to have too much stock sitting on shelves that you do not move through quickly enough. Expired products are a big waste of money. For the sake

of paying a delivery cost, you can order smaller and regular quantities as per demand. Also, consider what is no longer moving from your menu or ranges and remove it.

• Re-working rosters to have staff when you need them and not when you don’t. Sometimes this might clash with what they want, but in hard times this is a necessity to reducing unnecessary costs. Always put your best staff first and reduce the lesser performers.

• Manage opening hours to work for you so that you are open when the demand is there, and if need be, close on quiet or less popular days.

• The largest purchases and investments I have made over the years have always come during these hard times. I know it sounds crazy, but a small revamp, fit-out, or new treatment has always provided stimulus. Besides, you get better deals during these times and have more expense to claim at the end of the financial year.

• Invest in staff training, as it’s the right time to motivate staff (and you have the time to do so!)

• Rein in expensive marketing, as 80% of your business usually comes from 20% of your clients.

• Find out what clients are mostly seeking, as there is no point in offering what they don’t want.”

Through the highs and the lows, what have been your biggest learnings?

“Where do I start?!

• Do not get too comfortable. Reinvent the business every three-to-five years, as staff and clients will get bored.

• The power of relationships with clients lasts. They will also recommend and bring new clients that are loyal and supportive, not just for a quick post on social media.

• Always look at what you’re doing, whether it’s right or wrong, and do not pay too much attention to your competitors, as this may make you second guess yourself.

• Stay true to what you are good at and do not try and do everything. Do not be a ‘jack of all trades and master of none’.

• Support the businesses around you as they will also support you and sing your praises.

• Always offer different products and treatments to your competitors so that you both benefit and stand out to clients' needs.

• Do not invest in a product range that double dips, ie. one that sells online in competition with you or is found in department stores. Always select an exclusive line that offers everything you need, including a unique treatment range that can only be administered by your magic hands.

• Take care of yourself and your health because without it, you have nothing. This rings especially true for me since overcoming my breast cancer.”

If you were to open your own business again in 2025, what would you do differently?

“Definitely not go into shopping centres, as they are too expensive and you have limited flexibility of operations. Apart from that, I have made so many changes and learnt so many lessons over the course of thirty years that I truly believe I am exactly where I should be.” ■

5 PROFIT-GENERATING METHODS SALON OWNERS OFTEN FORGET

Feel like you’ve tried everything?

Laura O’Hagan helps to fill in the gaps.

THE CURRENT economic climate has many salon owners feeling they are walking a tricky, fine line. There is a feeling that “they’ve tried everything” without seeing their financial position change. From experimenting with social media marketing to investing in new treatments and equipment, many are not seeing a return on their efforts. The pursuit of the latest and greatest means powerful profitgenerating methods often remain untapped or forgotten about.

Let’s talk about five easy to implement strategies that can transform your salon:

1. Put a cashflow process in place

Without a clear cashflow method, even a fully booked salon can struggle financially. Implementing a structured cashflow process ensures that revenue is allocated effectively, expenses and tax obligations are covered, and forces a salon to be run innovatively and efficiently. It also means those sneaky money leaks are plugged, and you always know where your money is going.

2. Price based on your business, not on competitors

Many salon owners set their prices based on what their competitors charge. However, pricing must reflect all costs required to deliver the service, including staff, GST, product usage, overhead and profit margin. A sustainable pricing model ensures every service contributes to your bottom line. Yes, you do need to check that you are within the market range. But often when I do a deep dive with clients in pricing, they haven’t considered the costs, their unique proposition, or whether a service is contributing to or draining the business.

3. Spend with purpose

Unnecessary spending is a huge silent profit drainer. Regularly review expenses and ask yourself: ‘does this contribute to growth (and how am I measuring that?!)’ or ‘is it required to deliver the service?’ Most businesses could reduce their expenses by 10% overnight without any impact on the service delivery. Both my clients and I have been shocked to find tens of thousands of dollars on annual waste in expenses that had not been noticed.

4. Profit-focused productivity

Maximising your resources - time, staff, and space - can dramatically impact

profitability. Empty rooms, unbooked appointment slots and idle staff are not only missed revenue opportunities, they cost money, too. There are lots of innovative ways you can use these spaces without adding in staff. Measuring and managing staff utilisation rates (ie. booked hours over available hours) can clearly show opportunities to optimise productivity and drive increased profit.

5. Memberships and monthly recurring revenue

Predictable cashflow can ease financial stress, yet many salon owners hesitate to implement memberships. Recurring revenue models such as monthly facial subscriptions or tailored client plans create stability and increase client loyalty. Even a small base of recurring clients can provide financial security and ease the pressure of filling your appointment book each month. Consider ways you can bring this into your salon, creating a win-win for both parties. Focus on improved client outcomes rather than discounts.

Start small, stay consistent, and remember, the key is to shift your focus from just doing more to doing what truly matters. ■

Laura O’Hagan is the creator of The Profitable Salon System™️, a certified Profit First Professional, and a coach with a background as a chartered accountant. She helps salon and clinic owners grow profits and manage cashflow with confidence and ease.

How Beauty Professionals

CAN LEGALLY MAXIMISE THEIR TAX REFUNDS

By Mark Chapman, Director of Tax Communications, H&R Block.

Nobody wants to pay more tax that they must. The key to minimising your taxes is to ensure that you claim all the tax deductions you’re entitled to. If you’re a beauty therapist, there’s a long list of potential tax claims that might apply to you.

If you want to make a claim for work-related expenses, you need to follow the three golden rules:

• The expense must relate to your work

• You mustn’t have been reimbursed by your employer

• You must be able to prove that you spent the money. That means that you must keep receipts, invoices or statements to demonstrate that you actually incurred the expense.

TIP: keep electronic copies of all documentation relating to expenses, given paper receipts can get lost or fade. This will also save time and effort when you come to complete next year’s tax return.

Equipment

You can claim the cost of buying tools and equipment that you use in your job or business. If the item costs $300 or less, you can claim it straight away and if the cost is more than $300, the cost is depreciated over several years. If you’re in business on your own account, rather than being employed by someone else, you can immediately write off all items of equipment costing up to $20,000 per item (provided your turnover is less than $10m). This could include makeup brushes and applicators, waxing kits, mobile phones, laptops and bags or briefcases. You can also claim the cost of insuring work-related equipment.

Self-education

You can claim the cost of any work-related courses that you undertake, provided that they relate directly to your current role and aren’t intended to boost your skills into a promotion or another role entirely. That could include courses on makeup techniques, massage and nails. It could also include management training if you supervise staff. Courses run by a university or TAFE such as Cert IV in Beauty Therapy or Diploma in Salon Management could also be relevant. In addition to the cost of the course, you can claim travel costs to and from the course, accommodation and meals if you’re required to sleep away from home, books, stationery and depreciation on computer equipment used in your study.

Using your car

If you use your car as part of your work, for instance to travel to clients, between jobs, to expos or to collect supplies, you can claim the costs of your work-related journeys. If you use your own car, either claim 88 cents per kilometre up to a

maximum 5,000 kms or keep a logbook and claim your actual expenses. You can also claim for parking, tolls and public transport if you don’t use your car. You can’t claim the costs of traveling to and from work, though you might be able to make a claim if you’re required to transport bully equipment, which you can’t safely store at work.

Clothing & protective equipment

You can claim tax deductions for work-required uniforms (ideally branded), their cleaning, and protective items like gloves, aprons, goggles, and non-slip shoes. Beauty and contact-based professions can also claim masks, sanitiser, and antibacterial spray. Work-related COVID-19 test costs are also deductible. Conventional clothing isn't claimable.

Working from home

If you run a beauty business from home, you can claim deductions for heating, cooling, lighting, cleaning, internet, phone, stationery, and depreciation of office equipment. Items under $300 can be claimed in full immediately. If using the ATO’s 67c/hour rate, keep detailed records of hours worked from 1 July 2024. You may also claim occupancy costs like rent, mortgage interest, rates, and insurance. However, claiming these may reduce your Capital Gains Tax exemption on your home. With EOFY sales on, purchases made now can be deducted this tax year, helping improve cash flow through quicker deductions.

Other deductions

You can claim costs for professional subscriptions, work-related magazines, books, and overtime meals (if paid an allowance). Agency fees, tax agent costs (including travel), and a portion of mobile phone expenses for work are also deductible. Additionally, costs for attending professional events are claimable.

If in doubt, seek help

Nearly 70% of people use a tax agent like H&R Block because taxes are complex, and mistakes can lead to audits or missed deductions. A tax agent reduces stress and ensures you're claiming everything you're entitled to, potentially resulting in a larger refund. Just like seeing a doctor for medical issues, expert tax advice is worth the fee. ■

SHOULD BE YOUR SALON’S SUPERPOWER Why Service

By Emma Hindmarsh

WHEN I moved from the UK to Australia over 15 years ago, I was captivated by the energy and innovation in the local beauty industry. Salons here are bold, forwardthinking, and constantly chasing the next big thing. But amid all the buzz around new technologies and treatments, one crucial element often gets overlooked: exceptional customer service.

Let me ask you—when was the last time you made a client feel truly valued? Was it through a thoughtful follow-up after their treatment or a warm welcome when they walked into your salon? These small but meaningful moments are what clients remember long after they’ve left your salon.

As Maya Angelou said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” And in 2025, delivering exceptional service will be the golden ticket for salons looking to stand out.

Science meets soul

In the beauty and skincare industry, true transformation happens when clinical expertise meets personal connection. Every treatment you provide should be more than just effective—it should be memorable. Clients come to your salon for results, but they stay because of how you make them feel.

It’s not just about what’s trending or the technology you use. It’s about delivering service that feels as good as it looks. Adding personal touches—like a relaxing massage to enhance relaxation or a consultation that feels collaborative—can elevate your treatments from functional to exceptional.

Why the basics still matter

While trends may grab headlines, it’s the fundamentals of good service that build trust and loyalty; they are the foundation of any successful salon. A thoughtful welcome, a genuine follow-up, or simply listening to your client’s concerns can create a ripple effect of positive experiences. Clients may not remember the technicalities of their treatment, but they will remember the warmth, care, and attention to detail. These basics are timeless, and the best part? They’re free.

10 practical ways to elevate your salon's service Here are some actionable strategies to enhance your client experience:

1. Personalised Welcome: Greet clients by name and offer a brief orientation. This small gesture sets the tone for the entire visit.

2. Follow-Up Text or Call: A quick check-in after a treatment shows you care and keeps your salon top of mind.

3. Loyalty Rewards: Introduce a simple loyalty program—rewarding clients for regular visits makes them feel valued.

4. Google Review Requests: Ask for reviews at checkout using a QR code, or make the request in a follow-up email post-treatment. Bonus points for incentivising participation with a monthly prize draw!

5. Signature Add-Ons: Create a unique touch, like a soothing scalp massage, to make your treatments memorable. These small gestures take treatments from clinical to calming.

6. Client Preferences: Keep notes on client preferences, from their favourite tea to room temperature adjustments.

7. Birthday Perks: Celebrate your clients’ birthdays with a special discount or a thoughtful gift.

8. Skincare Check-Ins: Schedule periodic followups to assess their homecare routine and provide expert advice. These can be virtual and slotted into breaks during your day or in person at your retail shelf.

9. Selfie Station: Set up a chic corner or motivational mirror for clients to show off their post-treatment glow (psst: this gets you free social media content, too)!

10. Educational Moments: Use treatment time to educate clients about their skin, ingredients and technology, fostering trust and positioning yourself as an expert.

The power of transformation

When you focus on service, you’re not just treating skin—you’re transforming lives. Dr Murad says ‘skincare is not superficial because it’s healthcare’ and I truly believe that we are in the business of emotional care as much as physical skin care. Adding in these gestures has clients leaving your salon looking great AND feeling empowered and confident. That’s the kind of experience that sparks loyalty and word-of-mouth referrals.

As we move into 2025, let’s remember that trends may come and go, but exceptional service will always set your salon apart. It’s time to put the 'care' back in skincare and turn every client into a raving fan. Because at the end of the day, unforgettable service isn’t just timeless—it’s your salon’s superpower.

Emma Hindmarsh is an experienced General Manager with a passion for clinical skincare, blending two decades of expertise in driving brand growth and building trust with skin professionals and consumers alike. Known for her strategic vision and inclusive leadership style, Emma is dedicated to empowering others through innovative skincare solutions and partnerships. ■

A MEANINGFUL

Menopause

Ricky Allen talks taboo.

ACCORDING TO recent figures, at least 85% of your clients are perimenopausal, menopausal or postmenopausal. As therapists and aesthetic clinicians, you will often be the first person to realise that your client is in one of these stages. This is because the fastest growing cells in the body are those belonging to the skin and hair, so it stands to reason that women experience hormonal changes early on, impacting the health of their skin and hair. Perimenopause can last from five to ten years and is the stage that occurs when our bodies’ hormone levels start to drop. Certainly, this is the stage when we will notice those often talked about negative changes starting to occur. The perimenopause timeline corresponds generally to the timing of your first period, and the time it took for your hormones to level out. Menopause refers to the final menstrual period, and postmenopause refers to that time after menopause has occurred. Skin and hair changes will occur at each of the hormone change stages.

It is important as a skin therapist that you do not advise your clients on medical treatment, but rather suggest they see their physician for this. Your greatest strength is helping to navigate those physical changes, which do cause them a great deal of concern. Not all clients will exhibit with the same changes. Skin may become dryer and thinner in some, but thicker and oilier in others. Hair may experience these same changes. For the first time in clients’ lives, they may start to experience skin breakouts, which can feel disturbing to the unsuspecting client. They may also develop areas of hyperpigmentation when they previously had none. They may also show signs of rosacea which often develop in our late teens but may not show real signs until later age.

The musculature in our face and neck, as well in the body, will also start to weaken and change. Collagen production will slow. The skin may even start to become very reactive and develop conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.

Treatment options for menopausal skin

As a first step, the therapist should analyse the client’s skin to determine its unique needs, from which you can compile a 12- month treatment and maintenance plan. The 12-month timeline is important because of the anatomical and physiological changes which will be occurring through the treatment cycle, as we experience full thickness skin regrowth every six to 12 months depending on our age and lifestyle.

It can therefore take that amount of time to see real formative changes in the skin.

Every 12 months, you’ll need to change that plan based on what is occurring now with their skincare needs. Many professional skincare brands offer skincare products especially suited to clients' changing hormonal needs. Some of these brands include O Cosmetics, Murad, Emepelle, iS Clinical, Skinceuticals, Rejuvaus, and Dermalogica. More advanced treatments include EMFACE for face, neck and now eyes, Ultraformer, Sofwave, Clear and Brilliant Touch, and Healite, as well as Murad and Dermalogica peels. When it comes to makeup, mineral options are great to use on reactive skin. Guiya Minerals is one to try.

Your clients do not realise how much money they are wasting by cross-shopping on skincare without knowing what products they actually need. Before you start treatment, you need to have them on a skincare program which will, in fact, start the pre-

“MANY PROFESSIONAL SKINCARE BRANDS OFFER SKINCARE PRODUCTS ESPECIALLY SUITED TO CLIENTS' CHANGING HORMONAL NEEDS.”

treating process. When they purchase from you, be sure to show them how much to use and how to currently store products, as their activity level can be affected by misuse. Clients need to be on these products for a minimum of two weeks before you start their treatment. Even if they are going to be having injectables, which work on stimulating collagen production (think the likes of Rejuvan or Profhilo), skincare pre-treatment will only enhance the result.

Many of your clients will have drawers full of barely used products which have offered them no improvements. Take time to research the treatments and skincare you want to use in your clinic, as this research will ensure that you stock and use only the appropriate treatments and skincare to meet all of your clients’ needs. A few years ago, we could only dream that we could have such advanced scientific tools at our disposal.

And make sure that you support these vulnerable clients through their changing needs by offering forms of relaxation massage in your clinic to support them psychologically while you treat them. You will never lose these clients, such is the level of loyalty you will build, when you recognise all their needs and offer them the appropriate solutions during their hormone change journeys. ■

Endearing ENDOTA

In a rare and raw interview, endota Founder Melanie Gleeson ran Hannah Gay through her industry insights, the company’s exceptional history, and future plans.

endota is celebrating 25 years of operation this year. Recall for me what the Australian beauty landscape looked like at the time of endota’s launch, and what it was you wanted to achieve by launching the business.

“We actually nearly didn't get our first permit, because services [we advertised] were going to include massage, facials, body treatments, and so the council thought we're going to be a brothel! [laughs] It took a lot of education in the first few years, just for people to understand what we were. There were probably about four [spas] at the time, and they were within hotels. There’s been massive growth, massive change. I mean, people are drinking smoothies now, there's Instagram, people wear yoga gear out… there was none of that!

Flash forward, and now we've got evidence. When we started, people thought [spas were] quite ‘woo woo’. There was nothing like a physio for massage, or beauty for beauty, all under one roof. What we've really been able to do is, yes massage, but also results from high performance facials, under the one roof. We had to have a slow progression because we started with a $5,000 credit card. And I was 26… I had no idea what I was doing. I was so naive, which was a good thing, because I probably wouldn't have done it. We’ve grown with it.

We started off franchising… not that I knew what franchising was… but it was a business model that could help us grow, because we had no money. In about 2004-2006, we started making skincare. Then, we did the training school - the RTO in Docklands where we see about 200 students a year qualifying in beauty therapy. And if [students] don't come to us, we place them with people we know in the industry. Then, we did our online platform, where we recently bought back about half of the spas. Now, we're taking baby steps into other countries. In New Zealand, we bought an existing spa chain of nine, and that was a good test to see whether we could make it in another market. We also have a product distributor in Thailand that opened up an indoor spa. We will expand into hotels.”

Compared to when the brand first started, do you believe endota has greater or fewer competitors in the market, both from a spa and retail POV?

“There are definitely more [competitors], but they come and they go. I acknowledge how hard business

is. Because we're Mornington Peninsula-based - and we don't look too closely at what others are doing, we're driven more by what our customers tell us they want - that has allowed us to just slowly chip away, introduce the products and treatments that they're already asking for. More competitors puts up the rents [for all spas].”

The brand has long reflected a deep connection to nature and integrating the Earth’s elements, both in its retail products and spa services. Has this connection changed at all in this time, particularly with the increased social awareness of things like climate change?

“For me, it's always been. I was fortunate enough to go to a very forward-thinking school on The Mornington Peninsula that had three rules: respect for self, respect for others, and respect for the environment. So from a very early age, I have understood our connection in the cosmos, that we're all part of it, that every action has an effect, and to be conscious of that. The first yoga retreat I ever did was in year 10 where we went to stay at an ashram in Daylesford.

For endota, the values that [our long-standing therapists and franchisees] share are similar. We were one of the first certified organic ranges when there were only two manufacturers working with organics. We don't just do things that are environmentally-friendly because it's trendy. Because I haven't been out much in the media, and don’t have Instagram myself, we've been fortunate in that we could just do what we thought was the way; made our own rules. We're mostly women, our leadership team is mostly women. We've always made conscious decisions - our values, our intent, connect, truth and balance, and we really hammer those right through the organisation; they’re not just words on a page.

I could have made my product offshore and made way more money, yes, but would I have been happy with that decision? Not necessarily. I feel like we've done things the hard way, but for me, they're right and I can sleep at night. I feel very lucky that I can [produce products] here, and everything that's happening in the world at the minute, it's actually beautiful that we're Australian made. It doesn't mean I haven’t made mistakes… I’ve made hundreds-of-thousands of dollars in mistakes, but I'm happy with the way we've done it. I feel like because we have done things that way, we've earned the trust that the customer now gives us, and we've got strong foundations.”

How many product SKUs does the brand house today?

“We now have about 260 SKUs, professional and retail.”

In an interview with Professional Beauty in 2020, you said “having a massage or a treatment is no longer a luxury - it is a healthy habit and our spas have become a haven for emotional replenishment.” While the spa and wellness industries are now valued in the trillions, do you maintain this philosophy given the boom in invasive and injectable treatments of the last decade? Do you see that massage and non-invasive skincare has retained its relevance? “I feel like there was a time when invasive was a thing, but the pendulum’s coming back. We're seeing it in the spa. People still want high performance - so we still do LED, EMT, microdermabrasion, Laser Genesis, but they want skin health. And we

Photography: Supplied

“I WAS 26… I HAD NO IDEA WHAT I WAS DOING. I WAS SO NAIVE, WHICH WAS A GOOD THING, BECAUSE I PROBABLY WOULDN'T HAVE DONE IT.”

know that injectables do other things that are not skin health. I think people are more aware. There seems to be a change from overfilled, over-puffed and frozen; people want movement. They want good skin, good hair; healthy, vital. So our high performance facials have risen dramatically [in popularity], especially over the last two years. It matches up with what we're seeing in the longevity space - you want to look good, but you want to feel good. People are craving human connection still, definitely after COVID. The more digitally connected we get, we're less physically connected.

I feel very fortunate that despite all the advancements in technology, as that happens for our industry, the need for touch and physical connection grows. I just think we're in a lovely spot, our whole industry, where we can provide that care that is missing in so many other areas. We’re up [financially] on last year in these uncertain times.

[Clients] were coming every four to six weeks, and are now pushing that out to eight to 12, people are more discerning with what they spend. They want good quality, to go somewhere they know to be a lovely experience, and they want products that are going to make them feel and look good. I feel good about where we're at as an industry.”

Any challenges?

“Our biggest challenge as an industry is labour and finding people that want to join and stay in our industry. It’s a beautiful industry to be in, so we have to look at how we can facilitate people wanting to join. We get great numbers at our school, but I want

that to grow. No doubt it's not a consumer challenge, which is awesome because a lot of people are having consumer challenges. Because we're experienced [at endota], we get that many calls from global brands asking if they can put our products in our spas. Why? Because service is the heart [of the business]. And service is really hard, especially at scale. It's hard enough when you've got one, never mind trying to have consistency when you've got loads [of spas]. Retail brands won't always spend on training and care and the time that's needed to help the people providing the service. Everybody's talking about experiential retail, our industry's got it in spades. We're so lucky - it’s not like we're a retailer trying to get into service, we're a service provider that's gone into retail, which I love. It's been harder for us as an industry, but it serves us well for experience retail and things moving forward. It's a bloody exciting time for our industry. We forget because it is hard, and you're in it everyday. We forget what it is that makes us so special, and as a collective, we need to remember that and be really proud of what we provide.”

Let’s talk about education. I’d love to hear your honest thoughts on the current state of the industry in terms of training and staff retention, and whether you see more could be done to ensure the viability of the industry in the future.

“Yes, I think we just have to think differently. We need to acknowledge that in any of the industries where we're caring for others, we need more care around the people doing the caring - whether it's our therapists, hairdressers, childcare, aged care, nurses... In our online platform, we’ve got meditation, yoga, recipes… we give that to our people at endota so they can come home, log on, do a meditation, go to sleep. I've started speaking with hospitals about giving that to their people, because they don't spend on their people.

We're about to send out a massive survey, to 2000 therapists, and ask ‘what could this look like for you?’ Sometimes, they just want to mix up their working week… it's a lot when you're doing treatments all week. Maybe we can work with gyms, offer a membership at a discounted rate, or can we subsidise? There are things we haven't even thought of yet where I think we need to reshape what it might look like to join this industry. So we're in a bit of a research phase, talking to others and talking to the actual therapists.

In saying that, we [at endota] have a lot of people who've been with us for a long time, or they'll go and have kids, come back, do part-time. [Flexibility] is harder in spa because of the customer-facing hours, but we’re very flexible at head office.”

Following on from that last question, endota has recently joined forces with The Aesthetic and Beauty Industry Council (ABIC) here in Australia. Why was it so important to you to work with them?

“[The partnership] came to us. One of our franchisees from Albury had been a member, who said ‘it’s awesome’. [Our decision to join] was driven by what’s happening in the education space. We thought, ‘we’re a voice, we should join’. When I spoke to Stef [Milla], I thought ‘she's a firecracker’... [we need] someone like that from an industry body that speaks on our behalf… because the people making the decisions don’t often know what it means [for us]. We’ll give her what she needs to [share with the] government, ‘Listen, what are we doing for women in these industries? How can we make it better?’ And it might be a joining of resources, but we need think tanks, and we should bring [the industry] together and think of ideas. We're doing that within our own network now, but certainly new ideas and new thoughts are valued.

Our school joined as an education member, followed by our head office. I think we have to be [a part of the conversation]. I think we've got to a point now that we've been doing what we've been doing. It feels like I can take a breath, I've got an amazing senior team, we've got a big network. Now, we can start to give back a little bit to our industry that's helped us. It feels like that's the next step for us, for industry.

I say, ‘well done’ to everyone who's in it, it's a hard slog, and I love the people in our industry. I'm very connected with lots of them. There's a lot of things in this industry - not everything we're doing right, but a lot we're doing right - that could even be transferred to other industries. And I think as small business owners, it's very hard and it can be lonely. I think we've got people with good intentions doing good work, and I think that's nice.” ■

endota’s New Age range has recently been replaced by Performance Plus, a new line of high performance serums that can be integrated into endota’s professional, customisable treatments.

SCIENCE WITH BEAUTY: SUKHA SKIN AND WELLNESS

After cementing her name in the fitness and nutrition world during her early 20s, Isobella Outtram found her true calling while working as a skin therapist in 2017. Sent on a training expedition to Paris, she delved into the science of skin, falling head over heels for its complexity. The result? Sukha Skin & Wellness, a soothing sanctuary in Brisbane’s Windsor that specialises in holistically caring for the body’s largest organ. Kristie Lau-Adams chats to Isobella about her business goals, unique approach, and soonto-be-expanding menu of services.

What inspired you to open Sukha Skin and Wellness in 2023?

“I really wanted to create a space where people could disconnect from external noise and busyness. I had just had my second child, and I felt like I was really craving some nurturing. Our purpose, essentially, is to support women to reconnect with themselves while falling in love with their skin.”

Where did the name Sukha stem from?

“When I had my first child, I did a yoga teacher training course, and I fell in love with Sanskrit, an ancient language of India. Sukha is a Sanskrit word that represents happiness, bliss and ease as a long-term, stable feeling. It speaks to our goal of creating happy, healthy skin in hand with a happy, healthy person.”

What were you doing prior to launching your business?

“I began as a fitness trainer when I was 17, but going even further back, I grew up around beauty and wellness. My mum was a beauty therapist, and we would make oat, yoghurt and honey masks together, and we’d get little massages from her. I always loved it. When I was 18, I did a traineeship in beauty therapy, and things evolved from there. I worked for many years in spas, I completed 200 hours of yoga and pregnancy yoga teacher training, and I am also a qualified nutrition coach.”

What drew you to the world of skin?

“Things changed for me while working as a manager and lead skin therapist in 2017, specialising in the French skincare brand Biologique Recherche, who sent

me to Paris to train. I then began to really delve into skin, learning that people go through unique skin journeys and understanding how things like selfconfidence can impact the skin. I was intrigued by skin in every way.”

How does your background influence your work at Sukha?

“Understanding the emotional support a person requires, which I was able to refine through my work in health coaching, allows us to read people really well. We can tend to specific needs. Additionally, my nutritional training offers a deeper understanding

Photography: Supplied

“IT’S ALMOST A NATUROPATHIC WAY OF TREATING THE SKIN, WORKING WITH IT AND ADDRESSING ROOT CAUSES RATHER THAN FOCUSING ON A CONDITION THAT’S PRESENTED.”

as to what may be triggering skin concerns including acne, rosacea or dermatitis. I believe each unique element of wellness plays a crucial role in healthy synergy.”

Detail the Sukha ethos and what your brand stands for.

“Over the years, the philosophy of Corneotherapywhich supports the skin’s natural processes - began to resonate with me. Sukha adopts this approach. It’s almost a naturopathic way of treating the skin, working with it and addressing root causes rather than focusing on a condition that’s presented. But whilst we want long-lasting results, we also bring an element of relaxation into everything we do. Bright lights and sterile rooms don’t support our nervous systems, no matter how scientific products may be, and our emotional perspective naturally ties into our skin.”

Your business also stocks ingestible wellness products. Can you explain their appeal?

“I have used everything we stock myself, so I have first-hand experience to share with clients. We stock KAILO Nutrition, and I worked for KAILO for

four-and-a-half years during which the brand developed that product. It aligns beautifully to Sukha’s skin philosophy. They’re made here in Australia, they’re very clean and they’re very effective, particularly in the way of gut health and skin health. The second brand we stock is SIMKA - aligned to dermaviduals [also used at Sukha] - particularly its Omegas. Omegas are crucial for skin health and dietary conditions, which we see quite a lot.”

What inspired the tranquil Sukha space itself?

“Our intention was to bring peace and calm through a Yin energy of whites and neutrals with touches of deep green and a slight Japandi influence [such as the linen pendant light spied by Professional Beauty in Sukha’s reception]. The goal was to create a soft, calming and nurturing environment. The treatment rooms feature wider-than-usual beds with extended arm rests, which I think makes a really big difference, and a duvet placed beneath the visible exterior. Our beds are also heated in winter.”

What do you hope for the future of Sukha?

“I miss and still practice yoga, and I would love to one day facilitate retreats and daytime workshops to bring everything I’ve experienced together. We also work in conjunction with naturopaths, and I have achieved the equivalent of a diploma in naturopathy, so I hope to one day stock higher grade, naturopathy products. We also launched a new spa menu in April which includes body rituals, focusing on pregnant women and mothers, in addition to more intimate treatments like body waxing and even the introduction of Fig Femme’s Vulva Mask. We love the idea of expanding our holistic support of modern-day women.” ■

THE BUSINESS OF BATHING

The centuries-old art of bathing has found major-city adoration in recent years, with facilities now pushing into our greater regions. Kristie Lau-Adams explores how to get in on the bathhouse boom no matter where you’re based.

WHILE AUSTRALIA is renowned for some of the most hard-working professionals on the planet, we are also a nation firmly focused on wellness. According to research conducted by the Global Wellness Institute in 2022, Australians rank tenth as the world’s highest spenders on wellness products and services. It’s why bathhouse ventures and franchises flourished across the country almost a decade ago, with 2016 welcoming the first City Cave Float & Wellness Centre in Brisbane and 2021 seeing the launch of TANK Bathhouse on the Sunshine Coast.

Now, as slow wellness — a movement that encourages deep awareness of the present and more mindful self-care — soars, bathhouses are as accessible as gyms, flowing beyond heavily populated cities. In the NSW north coast, the sleepy town of Yamba offers its signature salt-breezed break with an all-new side of targeted restoration thanks to the arrival of Exhale, Yamba’s first bathhouse.

Owner of Exhale, Sarah Clarke, says that while urban areas are treated to concentrated foot traffic, quieter locations are switching on. “Yamba and its surrounding towns are seeing more people looking to strike that balance between physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing,” Sarah says. “[It’s] reflected in the increasing number of wellness facilities, yoga studios, and health-focused cafes or restaurants. These places are catering to a more health-conscious crowd than ever before.”

“THE LACK OF URBAN PROXIMITY LETS CLIENTS FOCUS FULLY ON THEIR PERSONAL WELLBEING, MAKING IT EASIER FOR THEM TO DISCONNECT.”

Sarah argues that out-of-city bathhouses like Exhale, built in a former squash court within walking distance from the Clarence River, offer clients a truly unique experience. “More spacious grounds and a quieter atmosphere provides clients with the opportunity to really unwind,” Sarah explains. “The lack of urban proximity lets clients focus fully on their personal wellbeing, making it easier for them to disconnect.”

It's a sentiment echoed by the team behind Victoria’s Alba Thermal Springs & Spa in the Mornington Peninsula, who late last year unveiled plans to extend their sprawling thermal springs and geothermal pools facility with an all-new bathing enclave, The Ridge. Alba’s General Manager, Craig Dodd, says the Mornington Peninsula, located just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD, provides idyllic coastal real estate for bathhouses. “It is remarkable to think that within a radius of 10km you can enjoy three wonderful, but very different bathing experiences in Alba, Peninsula Hot Springs and Aurora Spa & Bathhouse,” Craig says. “We know that many of our guests have never bathed before, while others are bathing enthusiasts who would have spent time with each of us.”

However, embracing the healing properties of Mother Nature doesn’t necessarily demand a strip of coastline, with some business owners looking inland for serious potential. SOL Elements, a Japanese-inspired bathhouse opening early Autumn on Queensland’s Tamborine Mountain, will

seize the Scenic Rim’s subtropical rainforest to craft tranquil traditional onsens, cold plunge pools, float therapy rooms and more. SOL Elements co-founder, Shea Raven, is coupling the region’s potential for wellness tourism growth with her own distinct vision. “As Tamborine Mountain locals, we have enjoyed the peace and serenity that the Scenic Rim is renowned for,” Shea says. “After discovering this expansive pocket of land… we knew it was the start of SOL’s transformation from an idea to creation. Tamborine Mountain is [filled] with farm-to-table dining, picturesque walking tracks, sparkling waterfalls, a coffee plantation and cafe, distilleries, wineries, and so much more.”

Armed with their own knack for pinpointing somewhere extraordinary are bathhouse visionaries Dan Bush and partner Grace Saffin, who founded Sauna Boat Tasmania in Kettering, about 30 minutes’ drive from Hobart. Reimagining hot and cold therapy via a floating sauna and natural Oyster Cove cold water plunge, the duo was determined to stand out in a niche market. “While foot traffic may be lower compared to city-based ventures, the remoteness of our location inspires word-ofmouth referrals and loyalty, which underpin the sustainability of our business,” the duo explains. “Embrace the unique characteristics of your location, as these will define and distinguish your own wellness offering.”

SOL Elements’ Shea also recommends that bathhouse business dreamers should not rush the process — even when the market feels hot. “SOL Elements came to life after four years of the ideation stage… after so much hard work, dedication, hurdles and setbacks,” Shea says. “Don’t rush an idea for fear that time is running out or that you need to jump on a bandwagon that looks like a fruitful venture. Do your research. It’s not about being first, it’s about being the best, so create something that no one else is doing or find ways to incorporate a unique selling point that can’t be found within your region of choice.” ■

“EMBRACE THE UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS OF YOUR LOCATION, AS THESE WILL DEFINE AND DISTINGUISH YOUR OWN WELLNESS OFFERING.”

Advanced Nutrition Programme Skin Collagen Support Margifox Distributors 1300 850 008 My Skin Chemistry Essential Vitamins Serum and Glow Up Hydra Cream Monesthetica team@monesthetica.com.au organicsceauticals Hyaluronic Hydra+ Sheet Mask Trio organicspa info@organicspa.com.au

Anesi Lab Luminosity Melaspot Eraser

National Salon Supplies 0412 546 093

Wellness Atmosphere 24 Karat Gold Anti-Ageing Body Oil

Wellness Atmosphere 0417 733 467

Aspect Nourishing Cleansing Oil

Advanced Skin Technology 1800 648 851

Ginger & Me Hydra-Glow Eye Masks

INSKIN COSMEDICS 02 9712 8188

Hydromerse Vitamin F Skin Boosting Power Shot

Hydromerse grahamstevens@hydromerse.com

Hale & Hush Berry Boost Mask

Certified Skin Solutions natasha@certifiedskinsolutions.com.au

Dr. Spiller Retinol+ Serum

OmniDerm 03 9645 0200

Synergie Skin PressPause Milk Serum Concentrate

Synergie Skin 1300 689 619

Synternals ProCollagen-C Bioactive Collagen Peptides

Synergie Skin 1300 689 619

Dermalogica Multivitamin Power Recovery Cream

Dermalogica 02 8437 9600

Medik8 Liquid Peptides Advanced MP

Advanced Cosmeceuticals Skin Group 1800 242 011

Retreatment Botanics Collagen Calm Activated Mist

Retreatment Botanics wholesale@retreatmentbotanics.com

LYCON SKIN RHYTHMIC MASSAGE AND THE POWER OF TOUCH

By Lydia Jordane, founder of LYCON Skin.

As a beauty therapist, mastering a rejuvenating facial massage is key to enhancing your clients’ experience.

LYCON’s signature Rhythmic Massage provides face-lifting benefits, relaxes, improves circulation, oxygenates the skin, detoxifies, and offers sensational calming and balancing benefits.

The LYCON Skin Rhythmic Massage is a highly effective lifting and sculpting facial massage, which is linked to the power of touch. Mechanical devices have their place; however, they cannot replace the power of a professional massage done by the hands of a skilled therapist, for the face, neck and décolleté, or the body for that matter.

The Rhythmic Face Massage is a specific muscle-targeting massage that creates lifting and firming results that are obvious from the very first treatment. When done regularly, the results of this massage are magnified, because the muscles have a memory.

In addition, the technologically and scientifically advanced ingredients encompassed by LYCON Skin provide exceptional results and more deeply corrective skin improvements. For added benefits, LYCON Skin products and the LYCON Skin Rhythmic Massage can be effectively combined with muscle stimulating devices, some of which may have microcurrents that work deeper at the cellular level and can facilitate better results in less time.

However, it is important to be mindful that overstimulation with microcurrents can create muscle and skin fatigue, which can have negative results on the skin. It is therefore important to balance the use of mechanical devices and touch, to provide a suitable holistic experience, which needs to be determined by the therapist before each facial session.

LYCON Skin Provides Many Skin Benefits:

• Promotes overall skin health, including a healthy skin barrier.

• Helps to reduce inflammation and everyday skin stress.

• Effectively and gently exfoliates, while protecting and hydrating the skin.

• Provides long-term calming and anti-ageing benefits.

Additionally, if microtrauma treatments are applied, such as laser and micro needling, the ingredients in the LYCON Skin range can help to heal the skin more quickly, reducing downtime and boosting skin regeneration. With the multi-functional benefits of LYCON Skin’s Adaptive Skin Science technology, the range is ideal for daily use at home, and ahead of laser treatments or invasive surgery, to fortify the skins natural defense and repair processes.

The LYCON Skin Hero Ingredients Include:

Yeast-Beta Glucan: A natural polysaccharide (derived from yeast cells) that acts as a multi-potent skin tonic; it revitalizes skin, restores the skin’s moisture balance, enhances the natural repair process, soothes sensitive skin, and increases the skin’s own anti-ageing and self-protective capacity.

Australian Superfruits Complex: Kakadu Plum, Illawarra Plum, and Burdekin Plum - in combination, these superfruits contain a multitude of antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C, & E, and anthocyanins to help fight free radicals.

Low Molecular Weight Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps from within to reduce wrinkles and improve the skin’s elasticity.

The LYCON Skin collection encompasses many other corrective and multifunctional ingredients to benefit all skin types. ■

To learn if LYCON Skin is the right choice for your beauty or aesthetics business, call 07 3004 6200 or visit www.lycon.com.au.

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

The Magic is in Your Hands

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

LYCON Skin — the ultimate bioceutical collection with an array of aromatherapy benefits, allowing you to customise your facial massage to each client’s needs.

Magic Touch Face Massage Lotion — suitable for all skin types

• With Jojoba Oil, Chamomile, Calendula, Vitamin E.

Face Massage Oils – Anti Ageing, Harmony, Replenish, Purity

• Each with targeted ingredients for outstanding results.

• Minimises the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles

• Calms and soothes sensitive skin

• Deeply hydrates and rejuvenates

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

• Balances and minimises congestion

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

Bioceutical Skincare Clean Beauty

Bioceutical Skincare

WE’VE ENTERED THE UNDETECTABLE ERA

Dominika Gialouris outlines the non-surgical innovations shaping beauty in 2025.

THE BEAUTY industry is experiencing a transformative shift in 2025, with natural, undetectable results leading the charge. At the heart of this movement are advanced skin and device-based treatments, which deliver subtle enhancements without overt signs of intervention.

From HIFU skin tightening to fat freezing and skin rejuvenation treatments, these non-invasive solutions are redefining beauty by prioritising skin health, precision, and long-lasting results. Let’s explore how these innovations are helping clients achieve their glow-up goals.

The power of non-surgical skin tightening

HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) has become a cornerstone of non-invasive skin tightening, delivering remarkable results without surgery. By targeting the deeper layers of the skin, HIFU stimulates collagen and elastin production, lifting and firming areas like the face, neck, and jawline.

Unlike more invasive procedures, HIFU offers a gradual, natural-looking transformation with minimal downtime. Its ability to restore elasticity and contour the skin makes it a go-to treatment for those looking to maintain a youthful appearance in the undetectable era.

Fat freezing: contouring without surgery

Body contouring remains a popular trend, with fat freezing leading the way. This non-invasive procedure uses controlled cooling to target and eliminate stubborn fat cells in areas like the abdomen, thighs, and arms.

Fat freezing offers subtle, progressive results, allowing clients to refine their silhouette naturally. This gradual improvement aligns perfectly with the undetectable era, where treatments are designed to enhance rather than drastically alter.

Skin health takes the spotlight

In 2025, glowing skin has become the ultimate beauty goal. Treatments like microneedling, red LED light therapy, and skin rejuvenation are now essential components of any aesthetic routine.

● Microneedling promotes collagen production and refines texture, reducing the appearance of fine lines, scars, and uneven skin tone.

● Red LED light therapy enhances cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and boosts overall skin radiance, making it a favourite for maintaining a luminous complexion.

● Biostimulators and other skin-rejuvenating treatments work to hydrate and improve skin elasticity, creating that fresh, dewy glow clients crave.

These treatments not only improve the skin’s appearance but also contribute to its long-term health, making them indispensable in achieving a naturally youthful look.

Non-surgical facelifts: APTOS threads

For clients seeking more dramatic results, APTOS threads are a game-changing non-surgical option. Unlike PDO threads, which primarily offer temporary results, APTOS threads provide a precise lift and stimulate collagen production for a longer-lasting effect.

This minimally invasive treatment bridges the gap between skincare and surgery, offering clients the opportunity to address sagging skin and improve contours without undergoing a traditional facelift. While surgical facelifts remain the gold standard for advanced ageing concerns, non-surgical options like APTOS threads are ideal for maintaining results or delaying the need for surgery altogether.

A new era of subtlety

While injectables have been a core part of this movement, the undetectable era is driven by advanced skin and device treatments that cater to a wide range of clients and professionals. These innovations prioritise skin health and natural enhancements, ensuring clients look and feel like the best version of themselves.

At Body Sculpting Clinics, we seek to bridge the gap between advanced aesthetics, affordability, and accessibility—offering clients transformative options that are the step before surgery. ■

Dominika Gialouris is a beauty and aesthetics expert and co-founder of the award-winning Body Sculpting Clinics. She champions accessible, high-tech, noninvasive treatments, helping clients achieve transformative results without surgery.

WINTER SKIN TLC: HOW BEAUTY SALONS CAN EMBRACE SEASONAL SKINCARE CHANGES

As the weather cools and the air dries out, winter presents unique challenges for skin. But it’s also a golden opportunity for beauty salons to step up and deliver real results.

With more clients experiencing dryness, sensitivity, and flare-ups of conditions like eczema or rosacea, expert care is in high demand. This season is the perfect time to strengthen client relationships by offering targeted treatments that deeply hydrate, soothe, and restore the skin barrier. Plus, with reduced sun exposure, winter is ideal for more intensive services.

By highlighting the benefits of winter-specific skincare, you’re not just addressing seasonal concerns—you’re positioning your salon as a go-to destination for radiant, healthy skin all year long. It’s about more than switching products—it’s about offering trusted expertise and transformative results that keep clients glowing (and coming back) through every season.

This season’s secret to transformational results

This is where Hydrafacial’s advanced and patented technology steps in. Meet Syndeo® - the smartest device in skin health. Syndeo® features Vortex-Fusion technology combined with spiral dermabraison tips that gently remove impurities while maximising absorptiton of active ingredients, enhancing treatment effectiveness. The result is a gentle yet powerful resurfacing experience, making it ideal for dry, sensitive, or compromised winter skin.

This multi-award-winning device treats a range of skin conditions and pairs easily with other treatments, making it suitable for all skin types. Clients will experience a deep cleanse, exfoliation, and targeted serum infusion, all in a single treatment with no downtime. Think: instantly smooth, radiant skin ready to optimally absorb active ingredients.

To truly personalise every treatment, Hydrafacial offers a wide range of targeted boosters so you can treat exactly what your client’s skin needs, from fine lines and dark spots to congestion or sensitivity. Whether you’re brightening, calming, or firming, each booster is packed with powerful ingredients that work hard while still being gentle on the skin. This customisable approach means clients leave glowing—and stay hydrated, nourished, and radiant all winter long.

Why choose the Hydrafacial Syndeo® for your salon?

Blending luxury and innovation with accessibility, Syndeo® meets the mark for clinics of all sizes and specialties. Pamper your clients with this advanced technology, featuring:

• LightStim Elipsa LED therapy to treat a range of conditions, from skin imperfections and hyperpigmentation to fine lines and dull, tired skin.

• Perk Lip and Perk Eye treatments on offer as add-ons or gifts with purchase.

• Automatic Serum Deduction automatically detects which serum is being used. Therapists love how seamlessly Hydrafacial Syndeo® fits into their businesses.

• The device features an easy-to-use interface, with gesture control and a lightweight design. One sleek handpiece handles all your treatment steps—no mess, no fuss.

• Secure a future proof investment, featuring ongoing updates and new treatment options to keep your offerings current.

• Plus, enjoy best-in-class training, and strategic marketing designed to further drive salon traffic.

Celebrating 28 years of innovation in skin technology

This year, Hydrafacial celebrates 28 years of aesthetic technology expertise. Born out of the idea that skincare should be both effective and enjoyable, Hydrafacial perfectly blends advanced technology with a spa-like experience for clients. Trusted by skincare professionals around the world, who perform over 2 million Hydrafacial treatments annually, Hydrafacial isn’t just a treatment—it’s a skin health movement that empowers clients to look and feel their best, every day. ■

ARE YOU READY TO TRANSFORM YOUR CLIENTS’ SKIN?

Skincare from Beauté Pacifique connects the use of effective and active ingredients with advanced technology in order to create healthier and stronger skin.

Meet Beauté Pacifique

Danish Beauté Pacifique has more than 25 years of experience in the field of skincare, where they have been creating innovative and ground-breaking products based on advanced technology and the newest discoveries within the field.

The brand was founded as a result of many years of collaboration with leading dermatologists and pharmacists including an ultrasound scanner that illustrates both the condition of the skin as well as the effect of their products. This means that the brand can scientifically document how their products effectively repair sun damage and rejuvenates the skin. The scanner is not only an excellent tool in terms of documenting the results and effectiveness of Beauté Pacifique’s products, but it also provides a unique ability to create tailored and targeted skincare routines based on the customers’ individual needs.

Active ingredients combined with a unique and effective delivery system

Beauté Pacifique is well-known for its use of active and scientifically proven ingredients in its skincare. One of those ingredients is Vitamin A which has documented effect when it comes to reducing wrinkles, boosting skin cell renewal and repairing sun damage. That is why you can find the hero ingredient in a lot of the brand’s skincare. To achieve the most of these powerful and effective ingredients, Beauté uses a special Squalane-based nanotechnology delivery system. This delivery system uniquely paves the way for the active ingredients making it easy for them to penetrate the skin. This way, they can do their magic in the deeper layers of the skin - where it matters the most.

A symphony of active ingredients

The Symphonique range consists of five groundbreaking products that all are based on the latest research withing dermatology. It combines six different types of Vitamin A that each has its own extraordinary properties that come together like a powerful anti-age symphony. A skincare line that effectively rejuvenates and revitalises the skin for a more youthful look.

Reduce redness and repair sun damage with Paradoxe

The Paradoxe range is based on Beauté Pacifique’s very own source of unique grape seed extract which possesses an exceptionally high content of natural Reservatrol and Procyanidin. These two ingredients provide both antiinflammatory and anti-ageing effects while they also prevent and reduce redness. This makes the series extremely suitable for clients with sun-damaged and sensitive skin.

Healthy and strong skin

Beauté Pacifique aspires to improve customers’ quality of life through healthier and stronger skin by developing skincare products for every skin type, concern or problem. ■

To learn if Beauté Pacifique is the right choice for your beauty or aesthetics business, call 03 8201 7117 or email orders.au@beaute-pacifique.com.

HYDRATION, HYDRATION, HYDRATION

When it comes to healthy skin, hydration is of paramount importance, writes Paul Fister.

PROPER LEVELS of hydration are the cornerstone of attractive, healthy, glowing skin.

Closely linked to skin hydration is the skin’s hydro-lipidic barrier. If one is out of balance the other will always be affected.

Our skin is waterproof. Why? Well, we all know that oil and water don’t mix. The lipids (fats and oils) in our hydro-lipidic barrier repel water. Just look at a textile fabric: it will readily absorb water but if it is coated in oils, like the Dryza-Bone, the water pearls off without penetrating the fabric. So how do we keep our epidermis well hydrated if we cannot add water from the outside? Here is how it works:

Our dermis has a very high water content – around 90%. It delivers water to the basal layer of the epidermis where new skin cells are formed. Those new cells are rich in water. This water must be preserved through the layers of the epidermis until the skin cell – now in the form of a corneocyte – desquamates from the skin surface.

That’s what the skin’s hydro-lipidic barrier is for. It makes sure that the skin does not lose its moisture too quickly. The magic number is 15: if moisture levels in the stratum corneum fall below 15%, we see signs of dehydration. And the lower that percentage goes, the worse the symptoms we experience.

Here is the circular relationship between skin hydration and the skin’s hydrolipidic barrier: if the skin’s hydro-lipidic barrier is weakened, it will lead to increased loss of moisture from the stratum corneum. As a result, we’ll experience the signs of dehydrated skin. Increased levels of dehydration in turn weaken the skin’s hydro-lipidic barrier. So how does this happen?

At OmniDerm we identify four levels of dehydrated skin. The first level is mild: the patient is not aware of it, but the experienced skin professional will spot the signs. The solution is a biomimetic barrier repairing skincare cream that quickly reduces TEWL (Trans Epidermal Water Loss) to normal healthy levels.

If corrective action is not taken, dehydration will progress to the next stage: tight skin. Why does the skin feel tight? As the corneocytes lose moisture they shrink; think grape and raisin. This symptom will be noticed by the patient but is sometimes misinterpreted as a positive sign – as though tighter skin will show less wrinkles. Yet there is nothing positive about tight skin – it is a signal that the skin is in serious distress.

At this point the physical barrier of the skin is failing. Tiny fissures develop in the stratum corneum, allowing allergens, chemicals and bacteria to penetrate deep into the epidermis. Now the immune barrier comes into play: Langerhans cells detect ingress of foreign bodies. They initiate a series of immune responses. The skin now feels sensitive and will soon exhibit signs of inflammation and redness. Does that sound familiar?

Now things get really serious: dehydration leads to inflammation. This is not the healthy inflammation that is associated with a healing response. If there is ongoing sensitivity and redness we are facing chronic inflammation. And chronic inflammation causes the formation of so-called self-destruct enzymes. Collagenase destroys collagen, elastase destroys elastin, and hyaluronidase – you guessed it – destroys hyaluronic acid.

It all starts with a small enough problem: dehydration of the skin. If ignored or not treated with a good barrier repairing biomimetic cream, this small problem escalates to become a serious issue that contributes to premature signs of aging.

At OmniDerm, we have been advocating the need for proper levels of skin hydration for nearly 30 years. We talk about this because our Dr. Spiller Biomimetic skincare creams are specially formulated to quickly repair and reinforce the skin’s hydro-lipidic barrier. That’s where the term bio-mimetic comes from – our creams mimic the skin’s natural hydro-lipidic barrier as closely as is possible with today’s best science and technology. And the cherry on top? These formulas are perfect delivery vehicles for superlative active ingredients. This will be discussed in a future article.

Source: BASF Personal Care and Nutrition GmbH

Dehydrated skin develops tiny fissures, invisible to the naked eye. This allows allergens, chemicals and microbes to penetrate the epidermis, leading to an immune reaction. Symptoms are sensitivity, redness, itchiness and irritation, as well as tightness of the skin.

WATCH NOW Treat the Cause, Not the Symptom with Paul Fister.

➤ Aesthetic Brand of The year

➤ Mutli-Award Winning Brand

➤ In Over 40 Countries World Wide

➤ 30 Years of Scientific Research

➤ Patented Delivery Systems

➤ The CHRONOS 4D and EFFECTOX technology from Juliette Armand is enhanced with the most advanced COSMETIC DRONES

NEW

PDRN Medical-Grade Mesotherapy – advanced skin regeneration, repair and post-treatment recovery.

Looking for a new brand for your salon or skin clinic? Register for a wholesale login: www.juliettearmand.com.au/professional-registration Take advantage of our exclusive loyalty program benefits.

For enquiries and more information contact our team at Juliette Armand Australia www.juliettearmand.com.au Phone: 1300522690 | Email: hello@juliettearmand.com.au

INTRODUCING MY SKIN CHEMISTRY

Efficacious actives, patented technology, and an accessible price point for all beauty businesses.

My Skin Chemistry was created to target two primary causes of skin issues and ageing: inflammation and dehydration. While hyaluronic acid is central to the brand, My Skin Chemistry goes further with HYLACALM Technology—a patented innovation that enhances hydration and calms inflammation. Each product combines this with clinical-strength ingredients to address specific concerns and visibly improve skin health and appearance.

The origins of My Skin Chemistry

My Skin Chemistry is manufactured by LEM Compounding Research, a Milanbased lab founded in 2010 by renowned cosmetic chemist Mauro Castiglioni. Known for pioneering skincare innovations, LEM has consistently invested in R&D, leading to patented ingredients and advanced technologies. In 2015, Castiglioni discovered a molecular composition based on Sonicated Hyaluronic Acid that reduces inflammation and boosts cell vitality—earning a patent in 2020. After two more years of refining this breakthrough with active ingredients, he launched My Skin Chemistry in 2022 as a pharmaceutical-grade skincare line.

What is Sonicated Hyaluronic Acid?

Sonicated Hyaluronic Acid is created through a patented ultra-sonication process that breaks down pharmaceutical-grade hyaluronic acid into ultra-low molecular weight fragments (<50kDa) without using enzymes—preserving purity and avoiding pro-inflammatory byproducts.

These ultra-small fragments are blended with multi-weight hyaluronic acid in a proprietary ratio to form HYLACALM Technology. Clinically proven to reduce skin inflammation by 94% and boost bioactivity by over 20%, HYLACALM enhances hydration, supports deeper ingredient delivery, and improves overall skin performance.

Beauty Method

My Skin Chemistry offers both pharmaceutical-grade professional and personal skincare solutions, powered by HYLACALM technology. Beauty Method is My Skin Chemistry’s retail line of cosmeceuticals.

Beauty Method is a carefully curated range designed to work synergistically to create a customised experience suitable for the majority of skin types and concerns. The minimalist, high performance formulations are delivered in luxurious and soothing textures that can be used after treatments to restore compromised skin, and ongoing to enhance and intensify results at home.

This versatile range includes the ‘essentials’ required to build an effective skin care regime, and speciality products designed to tackle the most common concerns - pigmentation, advanced signs of ageing, blemishes and a compromised skin barrier, especially following a treatment.

The My Skin Chemistry client

The My Skin Chemistry stockist

The ideal My Skin Chemistry stockist is one who is looking for the following attributes in a skincare brand:

• Clinic-exclusive, retail cosmeceutical brand.

• A clinical point of difference (i.e. patented HYLACALM Technology).

• Versatile, multi-functional products that can treat a multitude of skin types and concerns.

• A consolidated range of ‘essentials’ that can be incorporated into existing regimes.

• Functional ingredients such as PDRN, biomimicking peptides and growth factors, biomimetic ceramides, and stabilised vitamins, in efficacious concentrations.

My Skin Chemistry would appeal to:

• New clinics and sole operators looking for a universal brand of skincare, without the outlay and maintenance of a larger brand.

• Existing and large clinics looking for a novel brand to reinvigorate their retail offering, but one that can complement and sit comfortably alongside their existing staple brands.

My Skin Chemistry is a clinic-exclusive brand designed for clients who are proactive about their skin health. While they regularly receive professional treatments, they understand that long-term results depend on consistent at-home care.

These clients value efficacy over hype and believe in a less-is-more approach— focused on reducing inflammation and boosting hydration to maintain healthy skin and prevent future concerns. Whether due to treatments or lifestyle factors like sun exposure, diet, or stress, most will face inflammation or dehydration at some point, making targeted, high-performance skincare essential.

• Injectable and procedure-driven nurses and physicians looking for a retail solution that addresses the skin’s quality and optimises the outcome of other surgical and non-surgical procedures.

An affordable price point

LEM is a high-capacity compounding lab producing nearly 5 million units annually. With global access to premium ingredients and deep formulation expertise, LEM benefits from economies of scale and strong buying power—keeping costs low. My Skin Chemistry is LEM’s private label brand, bypassing traditional formulation and marketing costs, retail markups, and supply chain overheads. The result: high-performance skincare at an accessible price to both the stockist and the client. ■

To learn if My Skin Chemistry is the right choice for your beauty or aesthetics business, email team@monesthetica.com.au or visit www.monesthetica.com.au.

Scientifically proven to reduce signs of inf lammation by 94%

Patented HYLACALM™ Technology elevates professional skincare, enhancing hyaluronic acid’s natural hydrating benefits and reducing signs of inflammation.

My Skin Chemistry combines HYLACALM™ Technology with clinical strength active ingredients to target specific concerns and visibly improve skin health and resilience

Sabrina Sommatis, PhD,

Sommatis, PhD

Repor

T E CH TR E ND: AT-HOME DEVICES

Bio-Therapeutic BTSculpt, Professional Beauty Solutions, 1800 625 387

GESKE Sonic LED Full-Body Brush & Intensive Exfoliator 9 in 1, INSKIN COSMEDICS, 02 9712 8188

Therabody TheraFace Mask, Advanced Cosmeceuticals Skin Group, 1800 242 011 O COSMEDICS O-Rejuv Facial Device, INSKIN COSMEDICS, 02 9712 8188

GESKE Warm & Cool Eye Energizer 6 in 1, INSKIN COSMEDICS, 02 9712 8188

Airyday Bright On LED Face Mask, CX Cosmetics, allday@airyday.co

TriPollar STOP Vx GOLD2 Device, Professional Beauty Solutions, 1800 625 387

Trudermal Glow, Trudermal, 0487 567 040

DP Dermaceuticals LED Face Mask, INSKIN COSMEDICS, 02 9712 8188

WHY I LOVE VENUS VERSA™ PRO

By Dr Kristy

Iwas attracted to the Venus Versa™ Pro primarily due to its versatility and its ability to effectively target multiple skin concerns through a single, powerful platform. Venus Versa™ Pro is a multi-modality system that features a unique combination of Photorejuvenation (IPL), Nanofractional RF, and DiamondPolar RF. This makes it especially valuable in comprehensively managing complex skin conditions, particularly the significant changes that occur with menopausal skin.

The Venus Versa™ Pro system integrates several advanced modalities, each tailored to specific skin concerns. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) addresses pigmentation and redness; Nanofractional RF enhances skin texture, glow, and clarity; and DiamondPolar RF stimulates collagen production, visibly improving skin elasticity and firmness. These treatments can be effectively used individually or combined, as in the comprehensive TriBella™ protocol, for more impactful results.

Menopausal skin is a significant concern for many clients. Menopause triggers rapid declines in collagen, elasticity, hydration, and overall skin radiance. Venus Versa™ Pro uniquely targets each of these areas, effectively addressing elasticity, texture, tone, radiance, and firmness. By comprehensively improving these key perceptual categories, the device offers a holistic solution, significantly enhancing skin quality and empowering our peri- and postmenopausal patients with renewed confidence and vitality.

Patients regularly express how comfortable and convenient the Venus Versa™ Pro treatments are, highlighting a significant improvement from traditional resurfacing methods. Historically, achieving transformative results required painful treatments with lengthy downtime. Advances in technology mean these intense procedures are no longer necessary. Venus Versa™ Pro has been a game-changer, allowing us to deliver exceptional

“VENUS VERSA™ PRO HAS BEEN A GAMECHANGER, ALLOWING US TO DELIVER EXCEPTIONAL SKIN REJUVENATION RESULTS WITHOUT DISCOMFORT OR EXTENDED RECOVERY PERIODS.”

skin rejuvenation results without discomfort or extended recovery periods. Our patients greatly appreciate being able to achieve noticeable improvements without disrupting their daily routines.

Plus, consolidating multiple advanced technologies into one device has significantly streamlined both staff training and appointment scheduling. It has reduced our reliance on multiple separate machines, decreasing overheads and saving valuable clinical space. Importantly, the Venus Versa™ Pro has enhanced our ability to deliver personalised, effective treatments tailored to each patient’s unique skin concerns.

Having the Venus Versa™ Pro gives our clinic a distinct competitive advantage by allowing us to deliver fully customised, multi-modality treatments within a single session. We’re able to comprehensively address complex skin concerns, such as those associated with menopause and acne, that many other clinics cannot fully treat. This technology enables us to provide highly effective, tailored treatments, solidifying our position as medical leaders in advanced skin care solutions.

Overall, we’ve experienced genuinely life-changing results with Venus Versa™ Pro, particularly in younger patients struggling with acne. Many have gained newfound confidence as their skin clears, significantly improving their quality of life. For our mature patients, the device has noticeably enhanced skin glow, texture, and surface quality, restoring youthful radiance and smoothness. Patient satisfaction has been overwhelmingly positive, with visible results often noted after just a single session, leading to ongoing treatments and enthusiastic referrals. ■

Cosmetic Doctor, FRACGP. Dr Kristy is the founding doctor of Port Medical Aesthetics Clinic (PMAC) and has been practicing medicine for over 15 years. Dr Kristy is a working General Practitioner as well as being the Clinical Director of PMAC. Dr Kristy is an advanced injector and offers the most comprehensive range of injectables on the Mid North Coast. She loves to focus on full face regeneration for periand postmenopausal women.

Better

CONNECTED

Three beauty destinations speak on what it means to secure the perfect salon-software partnership.

Lush Skin & Body operates out of two locations, in Melbourne and Perth. Founder and Salon Director, Laura Smyth reveals why she chooses to partner with Kitomba Salon & Spa Software.

How many team members work across the business’ two locations?

“We have 22 girls across both locations and are still expanding rapidly.”

What do you look for when it comes to a salon software company?

“When choosing a salon software company, I prioritised a few key features that really make a difference for both the team and the business:

• Detailed reporting and analytics – I need access to transparent, customisable reports that help track performance, sales, client retention, and staff productivity. Data-driven insights are crucial for making informed decisions.

• Easy-to-use online booking system – A smooth, intuitive booking system is essential for both clients and staff. It should allow clients to book, reschedule, or cancel appointments easily, while also reducing admin work for the team.

• Digital forms – Customisable, secure digital forms for client intake and consent is a big time-saver, ensuring that all necessary information is collected efficiently and stored securely.

• Automated marketing – Automation for appointment reminders, promotions, and followups helps keep clients engaged and drives sales without manual effort.

• Great customer support – Fast, reliable customer support is a must. I need to know that any issues or questions will be addressed promptly to minimise disruption to the business. These features ensure smooth operations, improve client satisfaction and drive business growth.”

Kitomba hosts a range of tools, from a booking platform to POS system. What benefits have you experienced in working with an integrated platform that connects these tools together?

“Kitomba’s integrated platform streamlines operations by connecting tools like the booking system, POS, and third-party apps such as PayPal, Xero, and Mailchimp. This integration saves time by

automating tasks like payment processing, financial reporting, and marketing while ensuring real-time synchronisation across systems. PayPal enables secure, fast payments; Xero automates bookkeeping and financial management; and Mailchimp allows for personalised email marketing. Ultimately, this leads to a smoother customer experience, reduced errors, and more efficient business operations, allowing owners to focus on growth.”

Your salons offer a variety of treatments to clients, from skin services to waxing, massages to head spas. Do you see that Kitomba’s booking tools are able to cater to all of these service types? Explain.

“Yes, Kitomba’s booking tools are well-suited to cater to a variety of treatments like skin services, waxing, massages, and head spas. The platform allows businesses to customise service types, durations, and staff availability, making it easy to manage a wide range of treatments. You can set up different categories for each service type, define pricing and duration, and ensure the right staff is scheduled for each treatment. Additionally, Kitomba’s online booking system allows clients to easily choose their preferred services and book appointments, enhancing both customer convenience and business efficiency.”

If a business was looking to take on a new salon software company, what are some questions they should ask themselves before electing the right one for them?

“When a business is considering adopting a new salon software company like Kitomba, it’s crucial to ask the right questions to ensure that the software aligns with their needs, goals, and operational requirements. Here are some important questions to ask:

• What are the primary goals I want to achieve with salon software (such as appointment scheduling, client management, payment processing)?

• What is the total cost of ownership? What are the upfront costs (such as setup fees, licenses) and ongoing costs (such as a monthly/annual subscription)?

• Will the software continue to meet my needs as the salon grows in size or expands to new locations?

• How does the software integrate with other tools and systems?

• What level of customer support is offered (such as phone, email, chat, in-person, et cetera)?

• Can the software generate detailed reports on sales, appointments, employee performance, and inventory?”

Interviews: Hannah Gay Photography: Supplied

The Bathhouse operates along the southern outskirts of Sydney and is managed by Founder, Ash Hartney. Ash reveals why she chooses to partner with TRYBE.

How many team members currently work out of The Bathhouse’s NSW location?

“14 staff members – a variety of full-time, part-time and casual.”

What do you look for when it comes to a spa software company?

“Ultimately, The Bathhouse looked for a platform that simplifies operations, enhances the client experience and helps our team stay on top of everything. The first thing we looked for was that it needs to be user-friendly and intuitive for both our team and clients. We want our clients to easily check availability and book their appointments online without any hassle and when it is convenient for them. Automation is also essential for client confirmations, follow-ups and reminders. Plus, reliable reporting and scheduling functions to keep everything running efficiently.”

TRYBE hosts a range of tools, from a booking platform to inventory management. What benefits have you experienced in working with an integrated platform that connects these tools together?

“The integrated platform makes it so much easier to get insights with all the data in one place. Our team can run reports to track trends, customer preferences and operational performance all in one place thanks to TRYBE.”

Your spa offers a variety of treatments to clients, from soak sessions to facials. Do you see that TRYBE’s booking tools are able to cater to all of these service types?

“We’ve found that TRYBE’s booking tool caters to all of our service offerings with ease and the platform’s flexibility allows us to customise our offerings from multi-step package options to single treatments. The platform is able to accommodate all of the different service types and time slots, and we can easily set up different durations, special add-ons or packages, as well as allocate and manage our therapists’ schedules.”

SSKIN operates out of two QLD-based locations. Co-Founder Amy Hembrow reveals why she chooses to partner with Timely.

How many team members work across the business’ two locations?

“SSKIN is proud to have a dedicated team of 15 professionals working across our Bundall and Robina clinics. Each team member plays a vital role in delivering exceptional service and results-driven treatments to our clients.”

What do you look for when it comes to a salon software company?

“For us, efficiency, ease of use, and seamless integration are key. A great software should offer intuitive booking management, automated reminders, in-depth reporting, and a reliable POS system. It’s also essential that the software supports multiple locations and allows for easy communication between our team and clients. Timely offers everything we need. It wasn’t the first system we used, and after experiencing some challenges with others, we were amazed at how seamless and effortless the switch to Timely was.”

Timely hosts a range of tools, from a booking platform to a POS system. What benefits have you experienced in working with an integrated platform that connects these tools together?

“Having an all-in-one, integrated platform like Timely has helped streamline our operations significantly. The ability to manage bookings, client records, payments, and reporting in one place eliminates unnecessary admin work, allowing our team to focus on other parts of value. It also enhances the client experience by making scheduling and payments smooth and hassle-free.”

Your clinics offer a variety of treatments to clients, from skin to cosmetic services, naturopathy to lymphatic drainage. Do you see that Timely booking tools are able to cater to all of these service types?

“Absolutely. Timely’s customisable service categories, duration settings, and automated reminders ensure that each treatment type is booked correctly and efficiently. Whether it’s a quick LED facial or an in-depth cosmetic consultation, the platform adapts to the needs of our diverse service offerings. The ability to assign specific team members to specialised treatments also ensures that clients are booked with the right expert every time. To really cater to that personal touch we also send all aftercare and welcome emails to first time clients based on the treatment they got and who they saw.

Choosing the right salon software is about more than just bookings, it can be your peace of mind. It’s about finding a system that enhances efficiency, improves client experience, and supports long-term business growth.” ■

A NEW ERA FOR ELECTROLYSIS

Marisa Zines of Time Out

Beauty has witnessed the wave of demand shift for electrolysis over the last three decades. But does the practice still have its place?

Hannah Gay sought to find out.

Marisa, I understand you have over 30 years’ experience in electrolysis! How were you initially educated in this area, and what further education in electrolysis have you completed since?

“I initially trained in electrolysis at The London College of Fashion while completing a BTEC National Diploma in Beauty Therapy over two years. After graduating, I worked for Regis - a large company that provided additional electrolysis training to ensure therapists met their high standards. This advanced my skills in short-wave diathermy, the blend, and further specialised techniques such as treating red veins and milia removal. I was fortunate to be mentored by one of the top UK electrologists, Gillian Little, who took me under her wing. She ensured I was consistent with my technique and even trusted me to work on her, which was a great honour and valuable learning experience.”

What is electrolysis? How does it differ from laser and IPL hair removal?

“Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal treatment that uses a fine needle to enter the hair follicle and an electrical current to target the hair bulb, cauterising the blood supply to prevent further growth. It requires multiple sessions, as it’s most effective when the hair is in the anagen (growing) stage. Electrolysis works on all hair types, regardless of colour, and is particularly effective for small or hormonal areas, particularly on the face.

Laser hair removal uses concentrated light to target dark hair and is quicker for treating larger areas but less effective on light or fine hair. IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) works similarly to laser treatment but uses a broader light spectrum, making it less precise. While both are faster for large areas, electrolysis is more effective for small, sensitive areas and all hair types.”

Since the introduction of lasers and IPL, the demand for electrolysis has dropped. Why have you continued to specialise in this service at your salon?

“I believe there is still a demand for electrolysis. As mentioned earlier, laser and IPL treatments are not suitable for everyone. I’ve had clients who tried laser treatment on areas like the chin and neck, especially in hormonal zones, and felt it had the opposite effect, stimulating more hair growth. From the results I’ve achieved, electrolysis has been incredibly successful in treating fair coarse hairs which, to my knowledge, the laser cannot effectively target. Also, not everyone wants laser treatment for small areas, especially if they only have a few hairs to treat. As I’m also a skin therapist, I’m able to provide a permanent hair removal service when I notice strong hair growth on the face, and it is a much better alternative than getting out the tweezers or wax, which can stimulate hair growth. Many people are searching for electrolysis online, which is how I get a lot of my clients, along with word-of-mouth. It’s surprising how much women talk amongst themselves about hair growth issues, which also indicates there is a demand for permanent, effective and affordable hair removal treatments such as electrolysis.”

Photography: Supplied

The most common concern clients have around electrolysis is that it’s painful. Do you agree this is a leading factor in the decrease in popularity for the treatment, despite offering permanent results?

“Considering there are so many invasive treatments out there today, electrolysis is well tolerated in comparison. It can be a little uncomfortable for the most sensitive client, but it should not be excruciatingly painful. It largely depends on the expertise of the therapist performing the treatment, as it requires precision and skill. Some areas, such as the upper lip, tend to be more sensitive. However, if I notice clients who have a low pain threshold, I recommend using a numbing cream an hour before the treatment or taking a mild painkiller. These methods have been very effective for even my most sensitive clients. My pro tip is to have more frequent, shorter sessions rather than fewer, longer ones. This helps reduce discomfort, as the pain threshold tends to increase the longer the treatment goes on.”

Are there any side effects therapists and clients ought to know about? (Eg. skin discolouration, skin inflammation)

“If the therapist is skilled, the likelihood of side effects is greatly reduced. However, there are a few things both therapists and clients should be aware of. For instance, if a client is prone to pigmentation, I recommend using a pigment-inhibiting

“MY PRO TIP IS TO HAVE MORE FREQUENT, SHORTER SESSIONS RATHER THAN FEWER, LONGER ONES. THIS HELPS REDUCE DISCOMFORT, AS THE PAIN THRESHOLD TENDS TO INCREASE THE LONGER THE TREATMENT GOES ON.”

serum at least two weeks prior to electrolysis to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). I may also adjust my technique to the blend method, which reduces heat during treatment. Scabbing can occur, especially with new clients, so it’s important to educate them not to pick at scabs, as this could lead to scarring. Erythema (redness and swelling) is common, but it typically subsides within two to 24 hours. Correct homecare is key—clients should apply a healing gel and a zinc-based sunscreen for up to three days after treatment. In some cases, minor skin irritation may occur, but this is generally short-lived and can be managed with appropriate aftercare.”

Some would say electrolysis is making a comeback. Social dialogue surrounding treatment solutions for transitioning clients and PCOS clients has grown. For therapists looking at training in this area, where would you recommend they start, and what should they look for in an educator?

“Electrolysis is making a comeback, especially with the growing demand from transitioning clients and those with PCOS. For therapists looking to train in electrolysis, it’s important to choose a reputable, accredited provider. However, I recently spoke to a TAFE educator in NSW, and it appears you can’t return to TAFE for further electrolysis training once you’ve qualified, which is concerning. As the demand for electrolysis increases, training should be accessible to all beauty therapists. My concern is that salon owners may train their staff in-house, but this doesn’t necessarily ensure competence in such a skilled treatment. Electrolysis requires a lot of practice to achieve the correct results with competency and to avoid negative outcomes, so we must maintain high standards. I am aware that there are private colleges offering electrolysis courses, but as I have not trained in Australia, I am generally unfamiliar with the specific training methods. This information is based on my research. When choosing an educator, look for someone with practical experience and a strong track record. The course should cover both theory and hands-on techniques and provide ongoing support to keep skills up-to-date with industry standards.”

Do you anticipate electrolysis to remain an imperative professional treatment for years to come?

“As electrolysis directly targets the follicle by cauterising the root with an electrical current, I believe it will remain a unique and important treatment. For now, it offers something that other hair removal treatments don’t — the ability to treat all hair types and colours with permanent results. However, it’s always possible that a new, innovative system could be developed in the future that targets all types of hair and pigments, is completely painless, and is as permanent as electrolysis. If that’s not the case, though, electrolysis will undoubtedly remain a vital treatment. I also hope it becomes more widely available in Australia, just as it is in the US and UK.” ■

IS YOUR COMPLETE SPRAY TAN AND WELLNESS OFFERING IN ONE!

Our VersaSpa® PRO Automated Spray Tanning and Wellness Booths, now enhanced with WELLFIT, offers clients more than just a spray tan—they deliver a customisable, results-driven wellness experience.

Clients can now choose between two distinct services: a premium automated spray tan, a full-body WELLFIT skincare treatment, or the option to combine both for a comprehensive head-to-toe experience that seamlessly merges beauty and wellness.

This dual-service capability not only elevates the client journey but also broadens your service menu, increases visit frequency, and generates additional revenue—all within a compact, fully automated booth.

Engineered with innovation at its core, VersaSpa® PRO with WELLFIT delivers a next-generation beauty experience —meeting the evolving expectations of today’s beauty-conscious consumer with clean, effcient, and multifunctional solutions that elevate both service and satisfaction.

• Multi-faceted device, providing two in-demand salon services in one convenient, automated machine

• Provides an opportunity for your business to enter into the billion-dollar wellness space

• Great return on investment with low overhead and labour costs

• Broad shade range available for spray tan users

• 3 WELLFIT Skincare Treatment Options for wellness users

KEY FEATURES

• Three precision spray nozzles for full-body, even coverage

• Voice-guided instructions and easy four-position process

• Warm drying passes between sprays

• Intuitive touchscreen; just one hour of staff training

• Customisable services with WELLFIT skincare add-ons

• Self-operable, self-cleaning, and easy to maintain

Scan the QR code to contact us now for more information on how WELLFIT™ can elevate your business’ service menu!

THE GOLDEN STANDARD OF SPRAY TANNING

At Norvell®, we’re proud to be the industry leader in premium sunless tanning solutions and cutting-edge spray tan equipment. Trusted by professionals across the globe, our award-winning technology is designed to help your business stand out and succeed– whether you’re launching a mobile tanning service, growing your salon clientele, or enhancing your spa offerings. From first-time entrepreneurs to seasoned professionals, Norvell® offers the tools, products, and education to help you thrive.

Our best-in-class, portable spray tanning systems are engineered for ease of use, consistent results, and maximum client comfort. Popular systems like the Norvell® Oasis Handheld System and the M1000 Handheld System are lightweight, durable, and ideal for both in-salon and mobile applications.

Each system is designed to deliver flawless, streak-free tans with minimal overspray –saving you time, product, and clean-up.

Today’s clients demand more than just colour—they want skincare benefits, clean ingredients, and long-lasting results. That’s why Norvell®’s new and improved tanning solutions are powered by eco-certified natural DHA, erythrulose, and a proprietary blend of marine algae extracts.

These scientifically formulated solutions offer skincare benefits such as:

• Skin tightening and toning

• Hydration and moisturisation

• Firming and rejuvenation

• Even fading with no patchiness

The result? A rich, natural-looking tan that enhances your client’s skin – and keeps them coming back for more.

At Norvell®, we know that great results start with great education. That’s why every equipment purchase includes FREE access to the Norvell® Training Institute – our professional education platform led by industry experts.

From technique to troubleshooting, our training gives you the knowledge and confidence to provide flawless spray tans, build client trust, and grow your business with intention.

Whether you’re new to the industry or looking to sharpen your skills, Norvell®’s training is your key to professional success.

Increase revenue and client satisfaction with the Norvell® Glow System – a 7-product retail line specifically designed to prep, perfect, and prolong every spray tan.

Formulated with professional-grade ingredients and priced affordably at an RRP of just $35, the Glow System makes upselling easy and effective.

Products include:

• Pre-tan exfoliators

• Primering Lotions

• Tan extenders

• Post-tan moisturisers

• Daily gradual glow lotions

These products not only elevate your service offerings but also empower clients to maintain their glow between appointments –boosting their loyalty and your bottom line.

When you choose Norvell®, you’re not just investing in spray tan equipment—you’re choosing a complete business solution backed by:

• Over 30 years of industry leadership

• Trusted, award-winning formulations

• Ongoing education and support

• A reputation built on professional excellence

Whether your goal is to offer a luxury experience, drive retail sales, or become a top-tier tanning artist, Norvell® gives you the tools to make it happen.

To find out how to set the golden standard in your business choose Norvell call 1800 960 010

STEP INTO THE SUNLESS INDUSTRY WITH A READY-TO-GLOW BUSINESS SOLUTION

Starting a sunless tanning business has never been easier—or more affordable. At Sunless Australia, we’ve taken the guesswork out of getting started with our Norvell® Business-in-a-Box Kits, designed to help you launch quickly, professionally, and with confidence.

Whether you're going all-in with a full setup or starting on a budget, we have a solution to match your goals.

Our most comprehensive package, this kit is ideal for serious beauty entrepreneurs ready to hit the ground running with Norvell®’s best-selling M1000 handheld spray tan system. It includes everything you need to deliver premium results, upsell effectively, and build client loyalty from day one.

Complete Professionals Business in a Box Includes:

• M1000 Airbrush Spray Tan Gun

• Norvell Jumbo Mobile Spray Tan Room

• 3 Professional Norvell® tanning solutions

• 1 DHA FREE Norvell® Training Solution

• Essential Spray Tanning Supplies

• Norvell® Back Bar Products

• Marketing support materials

• FREE access to Norvell® Training Institute

Perfect for mobile tanners or salons looking to expand their services with high-end results and ongoing support.

$495 Including GST

CHOOSE A BUSINESS-IN-A-BOX?

• Easy setup with everything in one box

• Trusted Norvell® equipment and solutions

• Professional training included

• Proven products your clients will love

• Affordable pricing with long-term value

Whether you’re launching your first business or expanding your service menu, Norvell®'s Business-in-a-Box kits offer a complete, professional-grade solution to kickstart your success.

Choose your kit. Build your brand. Glow with Norvell®. Scan the QR to Shop Now or go to sunlessaustralia.com.au

Looking for a budget-friendly way to break into the tanning industry? Our Oasis Start-Up Kit is a smart solution for beginners who want professional-grade equipment and support without the larger investment.

Includes:

• Oasis Airbrush Spray Tan Gun

• Norvell Jumbo Mobile Spray Tan Room

• 2 Professional Norvell® tanning solutions

• 1 DHA FREE Norvell® Training Solution

• Essential Spray Tanning Supplies

• Marketing support materials

• FREE access to Norvell® Training Institute

Ideal for first-time business owners, mobile startups, or beauty professionals adding spray tanning to their service list.

Naturally SPEAKING

Take DHA, but make it natural. Tanning never looked, felt (or smelt) so good.

What is dihydroxyacetone (DHA) in tanning solutions?

Jessica Giraldi, Head of Education at Professional Beauty Solutions (distributor of Sunescape Tan): “Dihydroxyacetone (DHA) is the main active ingredient in most sunless tanning products, including spray tans, lotions and creams. It is a simple carbohydrate derived from natural sources like sugar beets, sugar cane, or through chemical synthesis. When applied to the skin, DHA reacts with the amino acids in the outermost layer of the epidermis. This reaction produces brown-coloured compounds called melanoidins, which mimic a suntan to provide a temporary tan effect.”

What distinguishes a natural DHA from a synthetic or chemical DHA?

“While there are many key differences between a natural DHA and a synthetic/chemical DHA (down to the source and production, to the purity and quality of the product), identifying what product uses natural DHA versus synthetic DHA often comes down to the smell and colour results.

The unwanted fake tan smell in many tanning products is a direct result of synthetic DHA. Alongside synthetic DHA are generally other toxins such as parabens, formaldehyde and petrochemicals which can cause increased irritation to the skin and uneven colour development, leaving skin with an unnatural looking tan. Natural DHA, on the other hand, interacts with the protein and amino acids in the outer layer of the skin to produce a natural golden-brown colour, without the unpleasant odour.

Apart from the unwanted smell, the main benefit of using a naturally-derived DHA is that it’s gentler on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation, dryness or unnatural orange tone. Plus, it’s made to react in the top layers of dead skin cells, meaning it’s much less likely to end up in your bloodstream, unlike chemical DHAs.”

What ingredients are used to develop Sunescape’s natural DHA?

“Sunescape uses certified natural DHA derived from beetroot and rapa seed.”

Is it more cumbersome (financially, physically, time-wise) to produce a tanning solution that contains natural DHA?

“Yes. This comes down to the limited supply/ demand for natural DHA, the fact that it’s more

physically complex to produce compared to chemical DHA, along with longer manufacturing times due to the fermentation and purification process of natural DHA.”

In light of the above, do tanning solutions containing natural DHA fetch a higher cost?

“Generally speaking, yes. This is due to the sourcing, production and regulatory costs involved with naturally-derived ingredients compared to those chemically manufactured.”

Talk us through the benefits of working with a natural DHA product (from the therapist’s POV), as well as the benefits of wearing a natural DHA product (from the consumer’s POV).

“Since natural DHA is free from harsh chemicals, therapists experience less exposure to potentially harmful fumes or allergens, making their working environment safer and more comfortable. Plus, there is no unpleasant or nasty fake tan smell.

Benefits for the consumer include no unpleasant odour, a streak-free (and even) tan that looks natural without orange undertones, it’s more hydrating and nourishing, plus it’s gentler on the skin, making it ideal for all skin types (even sensitive skin).”

Do you believe consumers are becoming more aware of the differences between natural and synthetic/chemical DHA in their products?

“Yes. With the rise of clean beauty trends and a greater emphasis on ingredient transparency, many consumers are paying closer attention to what ingredients are in the products they are using.” ■

THE ART OF AIRBRUSH MAKEUP

Multi-award winning makeup artist and airbrush specialist, Chantel Rahme shares why the technique remains the “the Rolls Royce of makeup”.

Interview: Hannah Gay | Photography: Supplied

“WITH THE RISE OF HIGH-DEFINITION PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO, AIRBRUSH MAKEUP HAS BECOME A GO-TO CHOICE FOR ANYONE WHO NEEDS THEIR MAKEUP TO LOOK PERFECT ON CAMERA.”

In what year did you undertake training in airbrush makeup? Was this part of a larger course, or was it an add-on to your existing training?

“I undertook training in airbrush makeup in 2004. Though I had already been working in the makeup industry since 2000, this was part of a larger, specialised course that focused on advanced makeup techniques. It wasn’t an add-on to my existing training, but rather an essential module to expand my skillset, as I recognised the growing demand for airbrush makeup in the industry. Soon after introducing airbrushing to my clientele, I earned the titles of ‘the airbrush queen’ and ‘the makeup expert’.”

What do you love about airbrush makeup, compared to traditional makeup application?

“I love its ability to create a flawless, lightweight finish that feels almost weightless on the skin. The application is seamless and the coverage is buildable without looking cakey. It also has great longevity, staying put for hours, which makes it perfect for events like weddings and photoshoots. The precision of the airbrush allows for an even, natural-looking finish. It’s perfect for achieving a smooth, airbrushed effect, especially in high-definition environments. It’s truly a game-changer for those who want long-lasting, perfect coverage with a soft, radiant finish.”

You’re considered an expert in the field. What strategies and techniques have you’ve practiced over the years to perfect airbrush makeup?

“Over the years, I’ve honed my airbrush makeup techniques through a combination of practice and experimentation, mastering the art of airbrush makeup in the industry. One key strategy is understanding the importance of skin prep - ensuring the skin is hydrated and primed properly before application is essential for achieving a smooth, long-lasting finish. I also focus on using the right airbrush pressure and practicing steady, controlled movements to avoid any streaks or uneven coverage. Layering products in light, thin coats rather than one heavy layer helps to maintain a natural finish while still providing the desired coverage.

Additionally, I’ve learned to adjust my technique based on the client’s skin type and the specific needs of the event, whether it’s ensuring extra durability for a long wedding day or creating a soft, glowing look for a photoshoot. Mastering the consistency of the formula and knowing when to switch between different nozzle sizes for precision application have also been essential to refining my technique over time.”

Airbrush makeup appears to have come in and out of fashion over the years. Is it still relevant today?

“Yes, airbrush makeup is absolutely still relevant today, and I believe it’s more popular than ever. While trends in the beauty industry can shift, airbrush makeup continues to be highly valued for its ability to create flawless, long-lasting coverage with a lightweight feel. With the rise of high-definition photography and video, airbrush makeup has become a go-to choice for anyone who needs their makeup to look perfect on

camera. It provides a smooth, even finish that traditional makeup sometimes can’t achieve, especially for those with texture, acne, or larger pores. The versatility and durability of airbrush makeup, paired with advances in products and techniques, ensure it remains a relevant and soughtafter option in today’s makeup world, especially with the rise of filters and social media.”

What advice would you pass on to an emerging makeup artist unsure whether or not to train in airbrush makeup?

“My advice would be to definitely consider training in airbrush makeup, especially if you’re looking to expand your skillset and offer clients a more versatile range of services. While it may seem like an added investment at first, airbrush makeup opens doors to a whole new level of precision and flawless coverage that’s in high demand, particularly for events like weddings, fashion shoots, or media work. Even if you’re not sure it’s for you, experimenting with airbrush techniques can give you a better understanding of its unique benefits.

The technology and products available today have made airbrush makeup much more accessible and user-friendly than in the past, so it’s not as intimidating as it may seem. Ultimately, being proficient in airbrush makeup can set you apart in a competitive market and attract clients who want a polished, long-lasting finish.

Being an airbrush artist for almost 24 years now, keeping up-to-date with new technology and advancements in equipment and products has helped me to give airbrush a more modern image; it really is ‘the Rolls Royce of makeup’.” ■

Chantel runs masterclasses throughout Australia for those wanting to learn airbrush makeup, or to upgrade their current skills. Visit www.chantelrahme.com for more information.

THROUGH THE EYES OF THE ARTIST

Vietnam-born Trí Trân is defying the odds, fast making a name for himself as a celebrated MUA in Australia after just five years of residency. Tri speaks to PB off the back of his highly successful live show, SENSORY. MAKEUP. THE ART.

From Vietnam to Australia

I’ve been working in the makeup industry for 15 years, and I come from Vietnam. Back in Vietnam, I owned a makeup school and had my own fashion brand - a bridal wear label. I also worked as a makeup artist in the entertainment industry, doing makeup for celebrities.

I’ve always had a strong desire to learn and grow each year. That’s why, around five or six years ago, I remember feeling the need to improve both my mindset and my skills. So, I made the decision to study abroad and advance my craft further. I came to Australia quite unexpectedly, on a holiday trip with a friend. Out of curiosity, I started researching whether there were any makeup schools in Australia. That’s when I met Ms Cameron Jane of the Cameron Jane Makeup Academy.

We had a conversation, but at that time, I didn’t speak any English. My friend had to help translate and convey everything for me. After that meeting, I returned to Vietnam, organised my work and responsibilities, and began studying basic English so I could come back to Australia. By the end of 2019, I made the decision to move to Australia to study. But when I arrived, the COVID pandemic hit. Everything changed; it wasn’t at all what I had originally planned or expected.

It’s been over five years since I made the choice to remain in Australia. I’ve continued working as

a makeup artist here, and I’ve stayed committed to the dream I’ve always had: to become an international makeup artist. To this day, I’m still on that journey, constantly striving, putting in the effort, and never stopping, to turn that dream into reality.

Something Beauty House

Two years ago, I started running my own business - Something Beauty House – specialising in wedding and special occasion makeup. I had already built a business of my own back in Vietnam so, following that same path, I wanted to continue growing a business here as well.

With Something Beauty House, I focus on diversity, working with clients from different ethnic backgrounds, and on the high-end, luxury market. I’ve always been drawn to niche markets - those that are more challenging to reach - because I love the feeling of conquering what’s difficult.

I’m also continuing learning and developing my skills as an international makeup artist, particularly in the areas of fashion and editorial.

“I HOPE PEOPLE SEE THE LIMITLESS CREATIVITY OF MAKEUP ARTISTS; THAT MAKEUP IS NOT JUST ABOUT FOUNDATION AND COLOUR, AND MAKEUP ARTISTS ARE NOT JUST PEOPLE WHO APPLY MAKEUP, BUT INDIVIDUALS ON A MISSION: TO CONNECT, TO CONSTANTLY EVOLVE, TO KEEP REFINING THEIR CRAFT, AND TO KEEP MOVING FORWARD.”

The SENSORY Shows

The SENSORY Shows form a significant milestone, marking the first time a makeup artist has ever held a live makeup performance at The Sydney Opera House. From inside The Utzon Room, the makeup show was uniquely combined with music, lighting, and body movement, offering guests a fully immersive, ‘awaken the senses’ experience. The Utzon Room represents the birth of The Sydney Opera House - a space designed purely for art, from its architecture, acoustics and lighting to its view over Sydney Harbour - all combining to evoke a sense of reverence, depth, and inspiration.

The SENSORY Shows are created to connect artistic souls - those in makeup, beauty artistry and styling. My hope is that everyone who attends carries with them a sense of the purity in this craft; the limitless creativity; the burning passion; the bold dreams. And more importantly, the need to turn all of that into reality, with desire, drive, and with the purest heart. I hope that after the shows, people will feel and understand the kind of burning passion a person has when they truly love their craft; what it means to dedicate yourself to the work you love.

I hope people see the limitless creativity of makeup artists; that makeup is not just about foundation and colour, and makeup artists are not just people who apply makeup, but individuals on a mission: to connect, to constantly evolve, to keep refining their craft, and to keep moving forward.

The shows also express an artist’s challenges coming from overseas, and how they try to find their place in the Australian beauty industry. Because talent alone is not enough; what’s also needed is opportunity. I believe opportunities are all around us, but I don’t wait for them - I create them. The SENSORY Shows are something I created to make that opportunity real; to connect myself with the beauty industry here in Australia.

In Show One of SENSORY. MAKEUP. ART., I was inspired by brides. Australia’s multicultural landscape gives rise to a range of skin tones and personalities, and to me, a beautiful bride expresses her uniqueness. I blended this with fashion and editorial, shifting bridal makeup from traditional glam to something more avant-garde. For instance, with the Black bride, I used fresh flowers as accessories, creating a doll-like look with Pat McGrath’s iconic skin texture. I also kept classic elements, like red lips, but with a fashion twist. Some looks, inspired by East Asian beauty or modern coolness, incorporated bold, colourful elements.

In Show Two, I drew inspiration from street artists. Their ‘sacred space’ is the streets, so I reimagined that in The Sydney Opera House through an editorial, fashion lens. The materials were raw and simple, reflecting street style.

Show Three was about drag queens, whose ‘sacred space’ is usually bars or clubs. I wanted to bring them into a fashion-forward, editorial setting, presenting them on a runway in an iconic location.

For Show Four, I worked with musical artists, like a pianist and singer, using unique elements like gemstone embellishments to create a cool, creative look.

In Show Five, I wanted to take the audience on an emotional journey through live makeup performance, something rarely seen on stage. But with my show, I wanted them to witness those golden, once-in-a-lifetime moments—the movement of brush strokes, of the bodies. For example, the dancers moved on stage, and the brush strokes moved with them.

Using only black and white, I expressed the balance between creativity and commerce (as rings true in the creative industry), and the internal struggle between good and bad. The brush strokes, from soft to raw, were designed to evoke contrast, just as both black and white must work together to create impact in makeup and life. They’re neutral; they sit in between, balancing hot or cold colours.

For white, I played with the brush and used brush techniques to form flower petals, creating quick but impactful effects that matched the outfit. Then for the second layout in that performance, I moved into black. The strokes were more free, raw, expressing internal conflict. I then added touches of white on top. It was clear that black and white are opposites, but they must go together to enhance one another. It’s the same in makeup. We need contrast to create impact. I used colour contrast to create visual effects on stage. And to me, that makeup moment was the perfect finale of the entire show.

The SENSORY Shows were never meant to be ordinary. I wanted iconic places, unique artists, and a performance that felt different—this is why I chose The Sydney Opera House as the first venue. ■

BUSINESS OF YOUR DREAMS HOW TO BUILD THE PERTH

CONNECT LEARN CONNECT

NAILS BY NATURE

Judy Chapman unpacks the clean nail revolution and sees how our interest in wellness is reshaping the nail industry.

WITH A rising focus on wellness practices, consumers are driving a revaluation of nail care practices, protocols and products, as many seek options better aligned to their health goals. Discourse feeds into concerns around toxins hidden in personal care products, with the nail care industry marking just one sector in the firing line. The response is coming in the form of popular salon treatments including manicures and pedicures utilising non-toxic or ‘health-conscious’ solutions.

Amy Phipps is the founder of Polished Byron Bay - a modern sanctuary spa embracing the clean nail movement. “For years, we saw the nail industry flooded with harsh treatments and toxic products, yet no one questioned their long-term health effects,” Amy says. “I created Polished Byron Bay to realise a more mindful approach; one that didn’t compromise on quality or results.”

Amy says she’s observed a significant growth in natural nail care. “Over the past two years, our revenue has increased by a staggering 68%. I see more clients moving away from acrylic and SNS, opting for healthier alternatives such as BIAB (Builder in a Bottle) and HEMA-free products.”

Danielle Egan, founder of nail polish brand, Sienna Byron Bay, echoes this sentiment. “Growth

in non-toxic nail care has been consistent. We’ve doubled sales in recent years and receive daily requests for new products.” Back in 2014, Danielle launched Sienna with a range of 13 colours. The brand’s range now boasts 70+ colours with a further 20 in production for launch this year.

Irene Falcone, founder of low-tox e-commerce store, Clean Nectarine believes the shift in clean nail care begin over a decade ago “with brands like Butter London launching 3-free polishes that removed three harmful chemicals without compromising performance.” She adds, “today, we see 5-Free, 7-Free, and even 10Free formulations, proving that up to 10 toxic ingredients are unnecessary.”

Irene highlights a series of chemicals nail technicians and their clients ought to avoid: formaldehyde, toluene, camphor, parabens, DBP (dibutyl phthalate), and TPHP (triphenyl phosphate). “We’re now seeing plant-based formulations that take innovation further.” Clean beauty brands are developing sustainable ranges free from harmful chemicals while maintaining durability and vibrancy.

Farthing Amy’s dedication to providing a clean environment for her clients, Polished Byron Bay is fitted out with state-of-the-art ventilation for healthy air flow, eco-friendly materials like non-toxic paints and finishes, filtered water systems for treatments, and ergonomic furnishings to reduce technician fatigue. “Every detail was thoughtfully considered to support the well-being of not only our customers but also our team,” Amy emphasises.

Danielle adds that while clean nail bars have gained traction in the US, Australia’s growth has been somewhat slower. “Luxury hotels incorporating salons have been our largest growth area for wholesale orders. These businesses aim to capitalise on the cultural shift we have seen towards eco-friendly products.”

Like all natural products, investing in nail products that contain non-toxic ingredients can come at a premium. Amy says, “natural nail care products are expensive. This is why our services come at a much higher [cost] than your average nail bar.”

Danielle adds, “another issue is that there are very few suppliers of plant-based ingredients because the science is so new.” She sees that this will change as customers select products geared toward personal health and the environment.

So what’s next for the industry? Danielle predicts innovation in eco-friendly gel technology. “Customers want gel-like durability without compromising on natural formulations. Suppliers are working hard to perfect this green technology; it’s likely the next big trend.” For Irene, Clean Nectarine’s latest launch couldn’t come at a better time. “We’re introducing a range that’s not just 10-Free but also sustainably sourced from plants.” ■

Judy Chapman, former Editor-in-Chief of Spa Asia magazine, is a wellness author and consultant in the hospitality, spa, and beauty industries. She collaborates with entrepreneurs and purpose-driven brands to create unique, meaningful, and profitable ventures.

THE RUSSIANS HAVE IT

Unpacking the manicure technique Perth didn’t know it was missing, writes Rachel Medlock.

WE’VE ALL seen it - a manicure that looks flawless on day one, only to be let down by regrowth or chipping within the week. In Mount Lawley, Perth’s Hallédays is rewriting the manicure script with a technique that has already made its mark on Europe’s beauty scene. The result is cleaner, more refined, and can last up to four weeks. And for salon owners, it’s a technique well worth paying attention to.

At the helm is founder Emma Hall, who first discovered her now signature technique whilst living in Sydney. “It completely transformed my natural nails and my confidence. The level of detail, care, and results blew me away, and I knew I had to bring that standard back home to Perth.”

In parts of Eastern Europe, this type of manicure isn’t considered a specialty service; it’s simply the standard. Emma describes it as all about precision. Unlike traditional soak-and-trim manicures, the Russian method is dry. “We meticulously clean and sculpt the cuticle area using an e-file, which allows us to get closer and achieve a cleaner, longer-lasting finish. The polish sits deeper under the cuticle, so you don’t get that grown out look after a week.”

The technique pairs seamlessly with structured overlays like BIAB (Builder In A Bottle), delivering minimalist nails that match the ‘clean girl’ and ‘quiet luxury’ aesthetics dominating client requests right now. Think Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner, known for their understated yet perfect manicures. It’s no coincidence they’re reportedly regulars at Russian manicure specialists.

Product choice matters just as much as technique. After travelling through Russia and Eastern Europe to research, Emma handpicked the products used in all Hallédays’ services, chosen for their compatibility with the Russian prep work. “They’re more flexible, more durable, and designed for structured manicures,” she explains. “We only use what we trust on our own nails.”

Emma’s approach to education and consistency is deliberate. “We don’t cut corners. Our standards are high because that’s exactly what our clients deserve,” she says. All training is conducted in-house, with a team that brings a global influence, featuring technicians from Wales, Ukraine, Romania, South Korea, and Scotland.

For salon owners, this shift happening across multiple corners of the beauty industry is worth considering. While express services still hold their own, there’s a growing appetite for treatments prioritising longevity and detail—services that take

more time upfront but ultimately save clients time between appointments. It’s not about choosing between convenience and aesthetics anymore. Increasingly, clients are looking for both.

“People want strong, durable, natural nails,” Emma says. “This technique offers that, and once clients experience it, they don’t look back.”

The Russian manicure may feel new to some corners of Australia, but it’s a technique built on decades of refinement, and as Hallédays is proving, clients are ready for it. ■

MIX & MATCH

National Educator for RefectoCil

Australia, Hayley Bush explains how to master the colour blending process during brow and lash tints.

BROW AND lash tinting have played an integral role in beauty treatments for many years, however this doesn’t mean these services have to be mundane. Consider putting a little colour and creativity back into your treatments!

As soon as a client walks through a salon’s door, therapists should be conducting a visual analysis to assess things like eye colour, hair colour, and skin tone. When it comes to colour blending, it is also important a colour assessment is conducted. Are they a warm, cool or neutral-toned person? What is their natural lash or brow shade, and how vibrant or subtle will a tint turn out over that natural shade? Ask clients questions like, ‘Are there any features you would like to enhance?’, and ‘Do you prefer a natural, subtle look or more of a contrasted look?’. Combining all this information together will make it easier for

therapists to customise their tint and achieve a look that their client will love. RefectoCil offers eight colours in its Oxidative Tint range that are designed to be mixed to create wide variations of colour.

Once a colour assessment has been completed, it is now time to use your professional knowledge to select the shades you will be blending. Ever had a client make a grand entrance into your salon with vibrant, ravishing red hair? Start by lightening the brows using a shade like Blonde Brow, followed by the application of Red to pair back with your client’s striking locks. Or for the client with beautiful blue eyes, have them pop by combining shades Blue Black with Deep Blue. For a more subtle enhancement, combine Natural Brown with a touch of Chestnut to add warmth.

The natural shade of a client’s lash or brow hairs will impact their end results. Darker lashes and brows will mean tints land more subtly, particularly when using any of the creative colours in RefectoCil’s suite. Blue Black over naturally dark lashes, for example, will create a subtle blue undertone that is only noticeable when the client is under a ring light or in the sun. Lighter lashes and brows will experience a more dramatic change, especially when we move into darker shades or creative shades. RefectoCil’s Deep Blue and Red, when blended together, create purple hues that will look a lot more obvious when tinting fairer lashes than what it would over a client with naturally dark lashes. At RefectoCil, our recommended ratio is 2cm of tint to 2cm of oxidant. Our Browista Palette and Ring have a great 2cm measuring line as a feature. When colour blendingwhether you’re mixing 2, 3 or even 4 different tint shades - it is important to remember to only use 2cm of tint in total. You just need to divide that 2cm up to include all your selected shades. Once you have your tints selected and measured, don’t forget to record your tint ratios and colours on your client consultation forms. No doubt, your client will fall in love with their customised tint and request it over and over again! ■

A NEW [BROW]ERA FOR CIARA GALLAGHER

Learn how the brow salon owner used her expertise to create a product range.

WHEN CIARA GALLAGHER opened her namesake brow salon in Bondi Junction nearly 15 years ago, she noticed a gap in the market for professional-quality brow pencils. After years of hand-sharpening pencils into her desired shape, Ciara realised she possessed the knowledge and passion to take matters into her own hands and founded Browera.

“Although I was fortunate enough to have first-hand market research to understand trends and customer needs, I struggled to find a manufacturer that could meet these requirements,” Ciara Gallagher, founder of Browera and Ciara Gallagher Eyebrows, explains. “It was very important to me that every detail of this brand aligned with my values and mission. Everything had to feel right and have meaning for me.”

Ciara describes Browera’s product development process as “lengthy and involved”, with refining formulas and perfecting the brand’s identity being some of the biggest challenges. Throughout the journey, she developed skills in product formulation, branding, digital marketing, and project management, plus an understanding of the financial aspects of creating a product-based business.

However, Ciara recognises that her 14 years of experience running a successful brow salon were invaluable and prepared her in many ways.

“It provided me with firsthand knowledge of industry trends, client preferences, and the operational challenges of a brow business,” she says. “Each product is designed with professional input, ensuring it meets the performance needs of brow artists while being user-friendly for consumers.”

While operating her existing business and building another one, Ciara admits she struggled to strike a good balance. At times, she felt the pressure of time constraints and guilt about focusing on one business over the other.

“IT WAS VERY IMPORTANT TO ME THAT EVERY DETAIL OF THIS BRAND ALIGNED WITH MY VALUES AND MISSION. EVERYTHING HAD TO FEEL RIGHT AND HAVE MEANING FOR ME.”

“I have become much better at delegating effectively and letting go of my control,” she reflects. “I’m sure most business owners would agree it’s not the easiest of tasks. I’m truly lucky to have a fantastic manager and team at Ciara Gallagher Eyebrows, not to mention the incredible loyal client base we have, who have been so supportive of both brands.”

The Browera range includes three signature products: BrowDefine Pencil, BrowSetter Ultra Hold Gel, and BrowQuench Oil (with more launches on the

horizon). Having navigated running a brow salon and launching a brand, Ciara offers sage advice for service providers considering doing the same.

“Be personally clear and passionate about your end goal; you’re going to be tested along the way and will rely on that passion to get you through,” she says. “Gather first-hand market research and genuinely understand your audience’s needs. Start small to test the waters, gather feedback, and refine your offerings.”

In addition to finding resources such as podcasts, events, or social media groups, Ciara suggests networking with peers in your industry to seek their insights or support.

“Don’t be shy in reaching out and asking someone who has already done it,” she says. “In most cases, people are happy to help.” ■

Profhilo® Structura launch

Where: Doltone House, Pyrmont, Sydney

Powered by Peptides with HydroPeptide

Where: Events by Alpha, The Gallery, Sydney

What: Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS) hosted an immersive and educational event for beauty media, showcasing the distributor’s range of brands. Guests enjoyed soothing Pure Fiji hand massages, makeup touch-ups with Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics, skinbrightening treatments with Dermalux LED, and more. A beautiful lunch was also held to talk peptides in celebration of HydroPeptide.

What: Guests gathered in celebrating the Australian launch of the latest injectable treatment, Profhilo® Structura. Guest speakers included Dr David Kosenko, Medical Director at Dermocosmètica, Dr Cara McDonald, Medical & Cosmetic Dermatologist, and Dr Ellen Selkon, Cosmetic Medicine Physician. Profhilo® Structura is designed to redefine facial structure by addressing age related volume loss. The event included lunch and a live demonstration of the product in action.

Amplified Beauty Lip Spa Experience

Where: Sydney Harbour Yacht

What: Hosted by Amplified Beauty Founder, Shahna Smith, Amplified Beauty took to the seas to celebrate the launch of its latest range of lip enhancing products. Guests clinked champagne while discovering the Australian makeup brand’s new Lip Scrub and Overnight Lip Mask, which are made using Red Velvet Oil™ and Native Raspberry Cellular Extract.

INSKIN.CO Launch Event

Where: The Butler, Potts Point, Sydney What: The latest brainchild of INSKIN COSMEDICS Founder, Maria Enna-Cocciolone, INSKIN. CO, was officially launched to select beauty media over a lavish lunch. The range, which utilises clinical botanical actives in their functional doses, was built to support a wide range of skin goals at an attainable RRP of just $55 per product. Maria herself was in attendance at the event, divulging all the details surrounding the up-and-coming and efficacious cosmeceutical brand.

5 minutes with… BEC JUDD

The mum of four, model, science degree-holder, and The Skincare Company ambassador shares her beauty philosophy.

Tell us a bit about who you are and what occupies your time.

“I’m Bec and I’m a mother of four. I originally trained as a speech pathologist with a science degree but am no longer actively practicing. I am a brand ambassador for The Skincare Company, Crown, Melbourne City Land Rover, and Mermaid. I’m also the co-founder of activewear label, Jaggad. Over the years, I’ve worked extensively in the media across TV and radio, and I’ve also authored a book. Life is incredibly busy and when I’m not working, you’ll find me spending time with my kids and getting around to their weekend sports.”

How would you describe your philosophy around beauty, skincare and makeup?

“I’m all about efficacy, simplicity, and science-backed ingredients when it comes to skincare. I don’t have time for complicated routines, so I need products that deliver real results while being easy to use. I want clean makeup formulas that enhance my skin without feeling heavy. Nothing overly fake or strongly fragranced – just lightweight, breathable products that sit beautifully on my skin. I simply don’t have time to be doing full glam all the time, so makeup products that are quick to apply and skin-friendly are my go-to.”

This year you are celebrating a decade in partnership with The Skincare Company - an amazing milestone! How did this partnership come about?

“The partnership started when Jo - the founder of The Skincare Companyapproached my team. She said, ‘I’ve created this incredible skincare line, and I’d love for Bec to try it and let us know what she thinks.’ I get sent a lot of skincare and was receiving new products monthly, but The Skincare Company stood out immediately - it actually worked, and I noticed visible results straight away.

The product that hooked me? The AHA and BHA Exfoliant Serum. I didn’t read the instructions to use 1-2 pumps and applied

way too much all over my face on the first go. The next morning, my skin was peeling like I’d had a professional Fraxel treatment! I’d never seen anything like the cell turnover from this one product – it was a real game changer. I thought ‘wow, she’s really onto something here’, so I got behind the brand and it’s been an amazing decade of partnership since.”

In three words, how would you describe your daily skincare and makeup routine?

“Clean, simple, effective.”

What are your go-to products from The Skincare Company’s extensive line of skincare and makeup?

“My everyday routine has stayed fairly consistent over the last decade. In the morning, I use the Vitamin C Serum, Hyaluronic B5 Serum and the Hydrating Moisturiser. At night, I use the Daily Cleanser, Exfoliant Serum, and the Hydrating Moisturiser again. I love that it’s so easy to go between morning and night products.

I also wear the Daily Defence SPF 50 every single day. I believe that SPF is the best anti-ageing product there is and the most powerful way you can support your skin. This SPF is great because it never makes me break out and is the perfect primer for my makeup as well.

My other go-to products are contextdependent. For example, if I have a redcarpet event coming up, I’ll load up on the Peptide Serum to really plump the skin and provide a collagen boost. If I’m on a longhaul flight, I’ll add some Hydration Booster to my moisturiser to rehydrate my skin.”

What about The Skincare Company’s ethos continues to inspire this ambassadorship?

“For me, it’s their commitment to sciencebacked innovation. The brand is always evolving, always improving, and each new product we create is formulated with purpose. I also love that it’s Australian

“I’M ALL ABOUT EFFICACY, SIMPLICITY, AND SCIENCE-BACKED INGREDIENTS WHEN IT COMES TO SKINCARE.”

Made, ethically-produced, and designed by experts who know skin. There’s no crap in the products – just potent ingredients your skin actually craves. It’s been incredible to watch the company grow, and I’m so proud to be a part of it.”

Do you feel a pull toward Australian businesses in the partnerships you take on?

“Absolutely! It’s so important to support our own and champion local brands. Seeing The Skincare Company expand and thrive has been so rewarding, and I love knowing I’ve played a part in helping this incredible Australian business to grow.” ■

A D IN D EX

AESTHETIC BUSINESS MASTERS 96

BEAUTE PACIFIQUE 70, 71

BEAUTY EXPO AUSTRALIA 38

BizCover 51

dermaviduals 17

Dermalogica 8, 9

DermaQuest 39

DoctorEckstein 37

Dr. Spiller 11, 13

emepelle 107

Hydrafacial 2, 3, 69

HydroPeptide OFC, 24, 25, 26, 27, 108

Juliette Armand 73

Kitomba 104

Lycon 66, 67

MOOR SPA 61

MY SKIN CHEMISTRY 74, 75

Natural Look Australia 6, 7

Sothys 4, 5

Sunless 84, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89

Synergie Skin 21, 23

Ultraderm 43 Venus 78, 79

REJUVENATE, RESTORE & REBALANCE SKIN AFFECTED BY MENOPAUSE

Emepelle® is the first and only line of skincare products available to help improve the appearance of oestrogen the restorative benefits of patented MEP Technology®.

This is a maintenance type of formulation that we are going to be advocating our patients use on a regular basis, like a sunscreen or a retinoid.

- Joel Cohen, MD, Lead Investigator

FEMALE, AGE 60

CLINICALLY PROVEN RESULTS FOR OESTROGEN DEFICIENT SKIN IN AS FEW AS 8 WEEKS

showed improvement in skin hydration agreed Emepelle improved the appearance of wrinkles, texture and colour *

*Data on file.

BASELINE WEEK 8