Professional Beauty ISSUE-2 2026

Misinformation, regulation roulette and knowing when to say no

PARTNERING WITH INNOVATION

For over 25 years, High Tech Medical has partnered with globallyrecognised manufacturers to deliver world-leading devices and cosmeceutical skincare to the aesthetic industry.

Renowned for launching breakthrough technologies that set the standard for less invasive treatments, reduced risk, minimal downtime and outstanding results, High Tech Medical is a trusted partner for clinics seeking long-term success.

“High Tech Medical has allowed us to expand our treatment capabilities in a way that feels intentional and aligned with our brand. The technologies we’ve introduced have supported more customised treatment plans and helped us address a broader range of skin concerns without compromising our standards”.

Crystal Patel, Clinica Lase Skin and Laser Clinic

“Working closely with High Tech Medical over the last 25 years has been very important in the growth and success of my practice. I have purchased many devices and products from the company which have all been very successful. We rely on Matt and his team to help us to continue to grow and choose where we invest in the future”.

Dr Saras Sundrum, Dr Saras and Co Clinics

PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT

Tetra PRO by DEKA

World-leading fractional CO2 laser offering near no-downtime resurfacing through CoolPeel. Visible results, minimal disruption, suitable for all skin types.

Onda PRO by DEKA

Microwave-based platform for non-surgical face and body contouring with no downtime. Simultaneously targets fat, cellulite and skin laxity win as little as 10 minutes.

TORO by DEKA

Multi-wavelength laser combining nano and picosecond technology for pigmentation, tattoo removal, acne scarring and skin rejuvenation.

EndyMed

Modular, all-in-one radio frequency solution including RF microneedling and powered by clinically-validated 3DEEP® technology. Designed for skin tightening, wrinkle reduction and body contouring.

iS Clinical

Pharmaceutical-grade cosmeceutical skincare range backed by independent clinical testing. Globally recognised for results-driven formulations that deliver dramatic, visible results.

Powered by Medik8’s Exclusive PDRN Technology, it features a prismatic PDRN ingredient available only in the UK, Australia and New Zealand, ensuring practitioners and clients access a truly unique, first-to-market innovation

PRISMATIC PDRN

TRIPLE EXOSOME COMPLEX DUAL MINIPROTEINS™

MORE POWERFUL RESULTS THAN MICRONEEDLING ALONE:

Boost reduction in visible wrinkles by 8.2x *

Enhance improvement in visible firmness by 7.5x *

Boost improvement in visible elasticity by 5.3x *

FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS, pair with the NEW Exo-PDRN Prismatic+ 30ml serum as a complementary at-home regimen to prolong and enhance in-clinic outcomes.

PUBLISHER

BHA MEDIA

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Simon Grover

ACTING EDITOR IN CHIEF

Erin Berryman eberryman@intermedia.com.au

NATIONAL

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Julie Davidson

jdavidson@intermedia.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Ryan Vizcarra

ryanv@intermedia.com.au

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jacqui Cooper

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@intermedia.com.au

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CONTENTS

8 Editor’s letter

10 Beauty Bites

18 Forecast: An aesthetic reset

INVESTIGATION

20 Who’s really advising your clients?

24 The compliance gap

EDUCATION

28 The Face Up Method

30 Mastering consultations

BUSINESS

32 Hiring for success

36 ABIC

38 Navigating the grey zone

39 Substance over show

41 That’s not mine to treat

TRIED & TESTED

45 Reviewed: The latest treatments

BEAUTY

52 The corrective season playbook

56 Transformation edit

58 The anatomical divide

65 Nothing to hide

67 How to optimise your device portfolio

69 Shifting attitudes to hair removal

73 Cosmetic tattooing client profiles

75 Post-treatment makeup

WELLNESS

77 The nervous system facial

78 Q&A: Clinical hypnotherapist Jowee Komyshan

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.

EDIT O R’S LETTER

Resilience is a defining characteristic of the global beauty industry. The sector has not only sustained growth through economic uncertainty — it has accelerated. But beneath the steady surface, things are changing.

Welcome to The Trust and Transformation Issue.

While beauty as a category hasn't slowed, belief has, if the consultation room is anything to go by. Today's client arrives having already combed forums, social media and AI for answers.

Our investigation asks a pointed question: who is really advising your clients? As easy-access information becomes the first port of call, a parallel rise in misinformation is making consultations more complex and the role of the credentialled professional more critical than ever.

The cover celebrates a milestone, 20 years of Professional Beauty Solutions, a distributor that has spent that time doing exactly what this issue is about: earning trust.

An Aesthetic Reset (p.18) unpacks a cultural shift: clients are arriving with subtler ambitions, seeking long-term skin health over dramatic results, and gravitating toward practitioners they trust to deliver it.

Our extended business section spotlights some of the industry's most respected clinicians, cementing their reputations not just on what

they offer, but on knowing when to say no (p.41). Client Confidential (p.43) takes a candid look at the difficult conversations that define credibility: complaints, pricing objections and the moments that test practitioners most. The compliance gap (p.24), an area where confusion continues to cost clinics, also comes under the microscope.

One message surfaces throughout: trust has never been harder to earn — or easier to lose. I hope these pages give you the tools to protect it.

Finally, this marks my last issue as acting editor. It's been a privilege to contribute to such an iconic title and tell the stories of the passionate people who make this industry what it is. Welcome back, Hannah!

Erin Berryman Acting Editor

EDITOR’S PICKS

Osmosis Rescue

I've been trialling it for just a week for a stubborn case of perioral dermatitis after hearing about it through word of mouth, but already my skin feels noticeably calmer. Early days, but very promising!

Synergie Skin Dermiotic

There's something about the way it sits on the skin that just feels right: lightweight, soothing and instantly comforting. Like it's giving my skin exactly what it's been missing.

54% of beauty executives cite consumer scrutiny of value among the biggest risks to market growth McKinsey & Company, 2025

26% of beauty consumers use apps to scan ingredients and product labels before purchasing Euromonitor International, 2025

6+ actions: The average number of steps a consumer takes before buying from a new brand Firework, 2025

O COSMEDICS

Gentle Antioxidant Cleanser

This has been a staple during our Tried & Tested series (p.45), when my skin is more fragile posttreatment.

All Skin Types **

All Year Round

*Increase in global LHR procedures between 2019-2023 (ISAPS 2023) **Raj Kirit et al., 2021

B E AUTY BIT E S

1.

Your Skin’s Personal Trainer

Ultraceuticals isn't in the business of launching products at pace, so when they do you know it's worth the wait. The Youth Boost ExoSignal GF2 Facial Serum combines plant-derived exosome biotechnology with stabilised dual growth factors — EGF for epidermal renewal and FGF-2 for fibroblast activity responsible for collagen and elastin structure — delivering 30 billion exosomes per bottle to optimise the cellular communication networks that underpin skin function. Think of it as the personal trainer for every other active in your clients' routines. To learn more, visit www.ultraceuticals.com.au

3.

Retinal, Refined

O COSMEDICS new Retinal V8 Fusion Serum is a serum-to-cream hybrid that pairs a potent retinal formula with a proprietary V8 Peptide Complex targeting longevity, tone, texture, firmness and radiance. Developed by founder Maria Enna-Cocciolone as a daily-use alternative to prescriptive retinoids, which can sensitise and impair barrier function, it incorporates actives including GABA, BRIGHT Oléoactif®, DEFENSIL®-PLUS and 4D Hyaluronic Acid for cellular renewal without the adverse reactions. To learn more, visit www.ocosmedics.com

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

Eye Essential

iS Clinical’s GeneXC Firming Eye

Gel brings the brand’s proprietary GeneXC Technology to one of skincare’s most nuanced zones. Combining two forms of vitamin C for fast-acting and cumulative brightening, a dual hyaluronic acid system for multi-level hydration, and a collagen-supporting peptide, the lightweight gel targets fine lines, laxity, crepiness and dullness simultaneously, delivering visible

4.

Peel and Reveal

HydroPeptide’s Resurface and Repair Peptide Pads deliver a two-step exfoliation and recovery ritual in a single product. Step one is a gentle chemical peel that softens and sweeps away dead skin cells, while step two follows with a peptide-rich treatment pad formulated to restore barrier function and promote cell renewal. The result is refined texture, improved firmness and a visibly revitalised complexion. To learn more, visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

Words: Erin Berryman Photography: Supplied

5.

New Brand Alert

High Tech Medical adds EXO|E to its portfolio. The patented revitalising complex is derived from plant stem cell secretory factors that are biomimetic to skin’s natural needs. Developed by Beverly Hills dermatologist Dr Nathan Newman over more than 20 years of research, the technology delivers the entire secretome of bioactive molecules — including peptides, growth factors, lipids and exosomes — via a three-step system, designed to work synergistically with microneedling, RF, laser and energy-based treatments. To learn more, visit www.hightechmedical.com.au

It’s Back Skinbetter science's globally awarded AlphaRet range is returning to Australia under L'Oréal Groupe following TGA approval. Built around a patented molecule, Ethyl Lactyl Retinoate, which uniquely combines a high-strength retinoid with lactic acid, AlphaRet has earned its reputation across international markets for its tolerability. The clinic-exclusive range includes the award-winning AlphaRet Overnight Cream, AlphaRet Clearing Serum and Exfoliating Peel Pads. To learn more, visit www.loreal.com 6.

7.

Pucker Up

Powered by patented technology clinically shown to double hyaluronic acid synthesis (+101 per cent), SIMKA Peptide Plumping Lip Therapy SPF 15 helps lips retain moisture, improve softness and appear naturally fuller over time. In a 28-day study on 29 women with twice-daily application, the results spoke for themselves: lip hydration up +50.6 per cent (with moisture still measurable 20 hours after the last application), lip volume up +15.1 per cent, texture improved by up to +8.6 per cent and softness up +10.5 per cent. Enriched with shea butter and vitamin E, it melts in for instant comfort while broad-spectrum SPF ensures one of the face's most sun-exposed (and neglected) areas stays protected. To learn more, visit www.simka.com

8.

Dual Power

Candela’s VBeam Pro combines a 595 nm pulsed dye laser with a 1064 nm Nd:YAG wavelength in one platform, offering clinicians unmatched versatility across a broad spectrum of conditions, from rosacea and acne to stretch marks and photoaging. The only vascular laser FDA-cleared for use in paediatric patients, it delivers 30 per cent tighter energy control across all Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI, with an enhanced user interface and optimised dye life for a superior in-clinic experience. To learn more, visit www. candelamedical.com

The innovation that reflects RHA® technology

With a high concentration of Resilient Hyaluronic Acid (RHA®), this super hydrating serum helps to boost hyaluronic acid and collagen production while strengthening the skin barrier for revitalised skin. 1-2 +130% IMMEDIATE HYDRATION1 +77% HYALURONIC ACID PRODUCTION2 +46% COLLAGEN I PRODUCTION2

1. Sundaram et al. Prospective, randomized, investigator-blinded, split-face evaluation of a topical crosslinked hyaluronic acid serum for post-procedural improvement of skin quality and biomechanical attributes. JDD 2018. 2. Ex-vivo study carried out by an independent laboratory on 33 human skin explants to assess the anti-ageing activity of the topical action of a novel, crosslinked resilient hyaluronic acid, and topical crosslinked hyaluronic acid serum.

Inspired by our ground-breaking technology, we specialise in designing and manufacturing hyaluronic acid-based solutions. Teoxane offers a unique range of dermocosmetics formulated with its signature ingredient: RHA resilient hyaluronic acid®, a crosslinked form obtained from a patented process.

Barrier Builders

Beauté Pacifique’s Chaperone is the Danish brand’s most significant skincare launch in years. It’s built on a compelling premise: that lasting skin health begins with discarding worn-out cells and awakening the ones no longer doing their job. Key actives include 5-ALA to restore cellular energy, EGF growth factor to restart the skin’s repair mechanisms, and OGG-1 enzyme to accelerate DNA repair of sun damage from 24 hours down to two. The four-product vegan, fragrance-free collection — serum, eye cream, day cream and night cream — offers a clinically credible, preventive approach to ageing. To learn more, visit www.beaute-pacifique. com/au

9.

10.

Fast Track

Alma’s PixelPeel reframes CO₂ resurfacing for the modern clinic: smarter, faster and with meaningful downtime advantages over traditional ablative approaches. Its fractional micro-column technology distributes energy in a dispersed, non-linear pattern, allowing tissue to cool between passes and reducing overtreatment risk. The proprietary MotionSync™ technology synchronises laser firing with handpiece motion for consistent coverage regardless of operator speed, delivering reproducible results in under five minutes. To learn more, visit www.alma-lasers.com.au

11.

Golden Hour Glow

Anchored by Kakadu Plum — one of nature’s richest natural sources of vitamin C — alongside hyaluronic acid and cold-pressed Fijian seed oils, Pure Fiji’s Citrus & Mokosoi Glow collection hydrates, refines and visibly enhances luminosity. Together, the radiance-revitalising ritual reveals smooth, light-reflective skin inspired by the warmth of island sunsets. To learn more, visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

12.

the formula delivers intensive hydration, calming and brightening over eight or more hours with clinical results showing calmer, brighter, deeply hydrated skin. To learn more, visit www.rationale.com

On the Road

KOLD has solved one of beauty’s most persistent travel frustrations: products that melt, leak or spoil in transit. Australia’s first insulated, spill-proof makeup and toiletry bags feature an insulated lining to protect formulas from heat, waterproof zippers, an antibacterial easy-clean interior and a durable structured design that holds its shape. Available in three metallic colourways across mini, midi and full toiletry sizes, they bridge beauty and lifestyle in a retail-ready package clients will actually use. To learn more, visit www.kold.au 14.

No Stress

A timely launch as clients transition from summer to cooler, drier months, Ella Baché’s Intensive Recovery Cream is a rich, restorative formula designed for stressed and compromised skin. Formulated with performance botanicals, plant-based oils and lanolin, it reduces moisture loss, calms irritation and restores resilience, gliding on luxuriously without heaviness. To learn more, visit www.ellabache.com.au

Mark Your Calendars

Australia's leading professional beauty event is back! Beauty Expo Australia returns to ICC Sydney this August, bringing new brands, live demonstrations and practical education across skincare, aesthetics, make-up, grooming, medi, spa and wellness. To learn more, visit www.beautyexpoaustralia.com.au

FORMULATED TO A GLOBAL LUXURY STANDARD

The ingredient philosophy aligns with the level of formulation seen in leading houses such as Dior, Chanel, and Elizabeth Arden—bringing together clinical precision and refined French-inspired luxury. Clinical Aromatherapy Facialist Oil (12,000 Petals), Glass Skin Facial, Dehydrated/ Tired Skin, Dry Room Body Treatments, Anti-Wrinkle Body Treatments, Anti-Ageing Facials.

With 20 years Experience, previous brands have been stocked and published globally:

• Zimmermann

• Henri Bendel, 5th Avenue (NYC)

• Fred Segal (LA)

• Birchbox (France)

• Blow Ltd Spa (UK)

Former brands have been sold at Day Spas in NYC, Califormia, Holland, Belgium, Germany, Sandinavia.

PRO SIZES ONLINE | 100% MARK-UP

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WHY WELLNESS ATMOSPHERE?

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PREVIOUS BRANDS:

Vogue Australia

The Australian Women’s Weekly

The Age

Generous Free Sampling System

Generous Free Tester Program

Gift Sets/Gift Boxes

Candles/Spa Gifts

Room Fragrance

Spa Blankets

Spa Slippers

Build a Profitable Business

Marie Claire (USA)

NBC Today Show

Grazia (AU & France)

Cosmopolitan (Germany)

WWD (Women’s Wear Daily)

Plus hundreds more blog, magazine and newsprint

AN AESTHETIC RESET

Quiet results are the hardest to achieve — but for today's client, the easiest to trust.

Words: Erin Berryman | Photography: iStock

ONCE, 'MORE' was the ask. More volume. More definition. More visible change. But something is shifting in the consultation room. Increasingly, practitioners are hearing clients request less intervention and, in its place, treatments that prioritise long-term skin quality over immediate results.

Era of an era?

Dramatic before-and-after transformations long formed part of the industry's DNA. Treatments that produced the most noticeable change attracted the most attention, particularly on social media, and rapid advances in aesthetic technology only accelerated the appetite for visible results.

Today’s clients appear to have a more nuanced understanding of what's available to them. As awareness has grown, requests entering clinics are becoming quieter — and more considered.

Australia’s tightening regulatory environment may also be playing a role. AHPRA's crackdown on before-and-after imagery and testimonials in cosmetic medicine advertising has forced clinics to rethink how results are communicated, potentially shifting the focus away from transformations and toward more measured conversations about sustainable outcomes.

The client has changed

To understand the shift, it helps to understand how the client sitting across the consultation table has evolved.

They are more informed than any previous generation. Years of social media exposure — to treatments, to results, to the conversations happening between practitioners and their

followings — have produced a client that arrives at consultations with their ideal journey mapped out.

That familiarity has produced a more critical eye. Clients who once deferred entirely to practitioners are now more likely to question, compare and advocate for their own preferences. And increasingly, those preferences are trending toward subtlety.

Cost-of-living pressures could be shaping this too. When discretionary spending tightens, clients scrutinise value more carefully. A treatment promising lasting skin health is an easier long-term investment to justify than one delivering a dramatic but short-lived result.

There is also a broader cultural recalibration at play. Candid conversations about aesthetic regret, amplified by a growing number of practitioners willing to speak publicly about overcorrection, have shifted what aspirational looks like. For a new generation of clients, the goal is no longer transformation. It is looking like a better version of themselves — and being able to tell people they've done nothing.

A conservative view

Conversations with practitioners point to growing interest in treatments that prioritise skin integrity rather than visible intervention. Clients are asking about restoring compromised skin, repairing barrier damage and achieving natural-looking outcomes. In some cases, this even extends to dissolving or reducing previous treatments entirely.

The emphasis is moving toward conservative planning. Practitioners are favouring gradual, considered approaches and the technologies gaining traction reflect this: collagenstimulating treatments, lymphatic drainage support, combination protocols designed for continual improvement rather than single-session transformation.

Alma's PixelPeel™ is a case in point. By creating microscopic treatment zones surrounded by intact tissue, fractional energy allows the skin to repair and regenerate more efficiently, delivering visible improvements in texture, tone and collagen stimulation, often with significantly shorter downtime than traditional ablative resurfacing.

Skincare is echoing the shift too. New product launches increasingly focus on microbiome support, cellular turnover and long-term resilience rather than rapid surface-level change. Ingredients such as exosomes and PDRN are gaining momentum, while aggressive exfoliation and excessive retinoid use are losing ground. In their place are formulations designed to support and regenerate skin function, rather than disrupt it.

What clinics are doing differently

Changing client expectations require a different strategy.

Consultations are growing longer and more detailed, with practitioners assessing skin health and treatment history before committing to a plan. Single appointments promising quick results are giving way to structured treatment journeys: staged, progressive protocols that support skin over time rather than alter it dramatically in one session.

The markers of success are changing too. Where transformation once defined the industry, trust, expertise and demonstrable skin health are becoming the measures that matter. ■

What forward-thinking clinics are doing now

• Speaking to results through a longevity lens emphasising return on investment

• Extending consultation time to assess full treatment history before recommending a plan

• Building staged treatment protocols that prioritise restoration over rapid results

• Leading with skin health outcomes rather than visible change in client communications

• Positioning barrier repair and collagen-stimulating treatments as core service offerings

WHO'S REALLY ADVISING YOUR CLIENTS?

Kristie Lau-Adams unpacks how the industry can cut through misinformation to build lasting client trust and loyalty.

Words:

Kristie Lau-Adams

Photography: Supplied

IT'S A common in-clinic predicament: a customer flags concerns before requesting a remedy they've discovered online. Today's beauty consumer is undoubtedly more researched, with many combing online forums, discussion threads, AI-driven tools and social media for comparable insight prior to booking an appointment.

A 2025 study by US social media analytics company Sprout Social recognised influencer marketing as particularly persuasive in Australia, finding that 36 per cent of the study's participants trusted social media influencers to provide proven recommendations.

But while an insatiable thirst for knowledge is boosting consumer expenditure, a rise in easyaccess information and misinformation is impacting day-to-day operations. Whether a piece of usergenerated content indeed proves fitting for one's personal goals is irrelevant. Beauty consultations are now indisputably more complex.

“IT IS OFTEN AT A COST TO THE BUSINESS… BUT WE'VE SAID NO, BECAUSE OUR ABILITY TO TAILOR HAS TO COME FIRST.”

The client evolution

Amy Hembrow, co-founder of SSKIN on the Gold Coast, which boasts more than 103,000 Instagram followers, explains that increased client curiosity demands significant in-consultation attention. 'A lot of time can be spent unpacking things clients have read or seen online, whether that's fears around certain ingredients, unrealistic treatment expectations, or assumptions about what a product or procedure can achieve,' she says, adding that SSKIN's business model allows appointments to change even once a client is ushered in. 'It is often at a cost to the business because you want to schedule a certain amount of services,' she details. 'But we've said no, because our ability to tailor has to come first.'

Dr Yalda Jamali, who holds a master's degree in clinical dermatology, works across three Sydney clinics. She has grown accustomed to treating the results of incorrect product use due to the online spread of misinformation. 'I see a lot of active ingredient overuse, with people layering multiple actives in one routine, which often leads to irritation and barrier damage rather than results,' Yalda explains. 'This tends to be more prevalent in younger patients, particularly those relying on social media as their primary source of information.'

Review forums and Reddit threads, such as 'AusSkincare', which attracts robust daily discussion around topics like 'holy grail products', sunscreen reapplication and nationwide facial recommendations, are

also susceptible to over-generalised skincare narratives. While seemingly unfiltered performance commentary draws thousands of subscribers across the country, Yalda says advice taken from forums and threads isn't foolproof. 'What works for one person may not be suitable for another,' she says. '[Threads and forums] can encourage trend-driven routines and overconsumption, which isn't always in the best interest of skin health. Overall, they are not that bad, but they shouldn't be relied on as a primary source of beauty-related advice.'

36% OF AUSTRALIANS TRUST INFLUENCER RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PRODUCT ADVICE.

Source: Sprout Social

SSKIN co-founders Amy and Emilee Hembrow

Dr Yalda Jamali

The threat of fake news

An escalation of misinformation due to increased user-generated content is challenging beauty professionals beyond the clinic, too. Terri Vinson Jones, founder and formulator of Synergie Skin and SynTernals, identifies misinformation around skincare as one of the biggest threats to skin health. 'Skin is complex and nuanced, yet much of the advice online reduces it to quick fixes or absolute rules, which is rarely accurate,' she says. 'This leads to decisions being made based on fear or oversimplified advice.'

“SKIN IS COMPLEX AND NUANCED, YET MUCH OF THE ADVICE ONLINE REDUCES IT TO QUICK FIXES.”

Terri also stresses the importance of digging deeper when the term 'medical grade' is referenced. 'In many markets, it has no consistent legal or scientific definition, yet it's used to imply superiority or therapeutic benefit,' she explains. 'That can be misleading for both consumers and professionals. What matters is not whether a product carries a certain label, but whether it is formulated with scientific intention, supported by evidence and tested appropriately.'

Speaking directly to online trends, Terri reminds consumers that while certain treatments and ingredients generate profound buzz, evidence-backed information to underpin a trend should always be extracted. For Terri personally, trend-driven ingredients will never dominate Synergie Skin's product line. 'Ingredients like retinoids, peptides and microbiome-supportive actives gain positive momentum online, but trend alone is never a reason to formulate,' she says. 'An ingredient only belongs in a product if it is supported by strong data, a clear mechanism of action and is delivered in a way the skin can harness it. Awareness is helpful, but evidence must lead.'

Rejuran, the wildly hyped salmon sperm facial born out of South Korean beauty, is another online trend that has spun itself into mass favouritism, according to Amy. 'People see it everywhere and everyone thinks that everybody is getting it and it's become a hamster wheel of momentum,' she says.

Myth vs Fact: The Skincare Claims Clinicians Are Debunking

As skincare advice floods social media feeds, professionals are spending more consultation time separating evidence from online myth. Speaking with practitioners, these are some of the most common claims clients are bringing into clinic.

MYTH: 'If it tingles, it's working.'

FACT: Tingling can indicate irritation or barrier damage.

MYTH: 'More actives mean better results.'

FACT: Over-layering actives can compromise the skin barrier.

MYTH: 'Medical-grade skincare is always superior.'

FACT: The term lacks regulatory definition.

MYTH: 'If a product is trending online, it must be worth the hype.'

FACT: Viral skincare trends are often driven by algorithms rather than clinical evidence. More importantly: what works for one person may not suit your skin type or concerns.

MYTH: 'Skin cycling is dermatologistcoined, so it must be legitimate.'

FACT: Rotating active ingredients can benefit some routines, but not all skin types tolerate exfoliants or retinoids at the same frequency. In many cases, a consistent, wellbalanced routine delivers better long-term results.

“I WANT TO BE MORE CAREFUL. WHAT NATURAL, TOXIN-FREE SKINCARE IS EVERYONE USING?”

— Reddit user, r/AusSkincare

Terri Vinson Jones, Synergie lab

“EVERY TIME I’VE USED SKINCARE WITH PEPTIDES I BREAK OUT. I DON’T KNOW IF THAT’S NORMAL OR NOT.”

— Reddit user, r/AusSkincare

A chance to grow

Make no mistake: user-generated content will continue to seed an information overload as technology advances. But for strategic beauty professionals, the rise of unstoppable information provides a golden opportunity to establish enduring trust among old and new clients.

More than ever, evidence is being acknowledged as the driving force of true beauty integrity. It is a notion that Amy, for one, is devoted to, while remaining accepting of clients' avid self-education habits. 'The opportunity for clinics now is to help bridge a gap: acknowledging heightened interest and the education that clients are bringing in, while guiding them back towards evidence-based, personalised care,' she says. 'Our role is not to dismiss research, but to help contextualise it through clinical expertise. Clinics that focus on evidence-based treatments, transparent communication and consistent results will ultimately build stronger trust than those chasing short-term trends.'

Yalda believes that clinicians should also adopt product lines that prioritise transparency. 'I've used ZO Skin Health for over eight years and what I think the brand has done well over the years is build trust through consistency and a strong clinical identity,' she says. 'There is a clear emphasis on delivery systems, including encapsulation, to support both efficacy and tolerability.'

Terri echoes the sentiment, noting that trust for all business owners starts with absolute and transparent intention. 'You need to know what you stand for and remain consistent,' she says. 'The brands that endure will be those that educate rather than intimidate.' ■

OVERHEARD ON REDDIT

“Hi, I saw they sell copper peptides powder on Amazon, has anyone used this as a serum?”

— Reddit user, r/BeautyAddiction

“Everyone said "just get tretinoin", but I tried it and it was far too strong for my sensitive skin.”

— Reddit user, r/AusSkincare

“I suffered for years [from perioral dermatitis] and tried all different topicals. Acids, coal tar, everything.”

— Reddit user, r/AusSkincare

“When I put anything with HA on, I get red, itchy patches on my cheeks. It burns and itches like crazy, like sunburn. Now I'm dealing with cystic acne. I don't know what's worse honestly.”

— Reddit user, r/SkincareAddiction

THE COMPLIANCE Gap

The aesthetic industry is governed by a patchwork of rules and regulations. Amy Hadley asks three industry voices, what's the solution?

AUSTRALIA’S CLINIC owners and aesthetic practitioners operate in a complex compliance landscape. Between navigating state-based laws, regulatory requirements, advertising rules, qualification pathways, device-specific training, and practitioner scope, they’re also facing increased scrutiny from clients. This is particularly the scenario for businesses offering laser and other energy-based treatments. Penalties for non-compliance are high, with operators risking financial, reputational and legal consequences.

Current state of compliance

ʻI’d describe the current environment for lasers in aesthetic clinics as disconnected, as there are no unified national licensing laws,’ says Kirsten Cachia, clinical operations manager at Candela ANZ. ʻWhile the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) regulates medical devices themselves to ensure they are listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), the actual operation of these lasers is governed by inconsistent state-based radiation and health acts.’

Caryll Wiggers, director of Skin ResQ Perth, operates in Western Australia, which has some of the strictest state-based laser requirements in the country. She explains that as well as holding a laser safety officer certificate, practitioners must complete logged clinical hours supervised by a licensed operator. They can then apply for a formal laser licence exemption through the Western Australia Radiological Council.

ʻThrough recent recruitment, I’ve interviewed therapists who have experience using laser devices but don’t hold a formal licence exemption,’ Caryll says. ʻThis suggests there may be situations where compliance isn’t fully understood or not consistently prioritised.’

Stefanie (Stef) Milla, CEO of the Aesthetic & Beauty Industry Council (ABIC), adds that alongside increased regulatory and media scrutiny around training standards and practitioner qualifications, scope of practice remains unclear.

ʻThe same devices and modalities are now used across medical, dermal and beauty settings; this makes it difficult to regulate by profession alone, so the focus has shifted towards treatment type, device risk, and patient outcome,’ she describes. ʻWithout clearly defined boundaries, it becomes difficult to determine what training is appropriate, and that lack of clarity invites scrutiny.’

“WITHOUT CLEARLY DEFINED BOUNDARIES, IT BECOMES DIFFICULT TO DETERMINE WHAT TRAINING IS APPROPRIATE, AND THAT LACK OF CLARITY INVITES SCRUTINY.”

Concerns for clinics and clients

Device distributors play a preliminary role in ensuring the clinics they supply devices to meet regulatory obligations. Kirsten says when a device is installed, the supplier is obligated to provide a high standard of training to ensure staff are competent in delivering safe, effective treatments. However, from there, the onus is on the clinic.

ʻWhen taking on a TGA-regulated aesthetic device, a clinic must ensure patient and operator safety and legal compliance,’ she notes. Kirsten warns that noncompliance could void a clinic’s professional indemnity coverage.

Caryll takes multiple steps to ensure new staff are qualified and trained before performing treatments using laser devices. She verifies that they hold a current and valid licence from the Western Australia Radiological Council, conducts an interview, and contacts previous employers for a reference check.

ʻI then invite them to complete a paid trade test within the clinic, typically lasting three to five hours,’ she says. ʻThis allows me to observe their clinical technique, attention to detail, safety practices, and decision-making in real time, which is essential when working with high-powered devices.’

Words: Amy Hadley

| Photography: iStock

Clinics and their practitioners may be doing everything right regarding training and compliance, but they still face another obstacle. TGA and Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) advertising laws limit what clinics can communicate to clients, making it difficult for them to access clear information.

ʻClients want to understand not only what treatments are offered, but how a practitioner works, their level of expertise, and their aesthetic approach,’ Stef explains. ʻHowever, regulatory restrictions mean practitioners are often unable to fully communicate this through websites or social platforms. Australian practitioners [...] are limited in what they can say, while patients continue to access large volumes of unregulated information online, often from overseas. As a result, patients may be making decisions based on incomplete or inconsistent information.’

Caryll adds that about 20 per cent of her clinic’s clients ask specific questions about qualifications, licensing, and technology used; most of these clients are new to her clinic and conducting research before committing to a treatment.

Future industry changes

ʻLaser devices are powerful medical-grade technologies, and structured supervised hours are essential to ensure practitioners develop the skills, judgment, and confidence required to use them safely,’ Caryll states. ʻWhere I see the opportunity isn’t necessarily in changing the requirements, but in improving clarity, consistency, and accountability around them.’

“THE SOLUTION IS TO BUILD A COHESIVE FRAMEWORK WHERE EDUCATION DIRECTLY REFLECTS WHAT A PRACTITIONER IS TRAINED AND PERMITTED TO DO.”

Stef believes this confusion largely comes from a lack of structure. ʻThe solution is to build a cohesive framework where education directly reflects what a practitioner is trained and permitted to do. This starts with strong foundational qualifications in each sector, followed by clear pathways into advanced and specialised areas.’

ABIC is undertaking two initiatives to represent the industry’s concerns and lead towards tangible changes. They’re working with the Australian Bureau of Statistics on their Occupation Standard Classification for Australia Review, to properly distinguish between beauty therapists, dermal therapists, dermal clinicians and cosmetic nurses.

ʻABIC previously submitted a detailed framework outlining these differences, and with submissions now reopened, we’re refining this further to strengthen scope of practice as a foundation for training and regulation,’ Stef explains. ʻIn parallel, we’re working with Skills and Creative Australia on reforming qualifications. Without clearly defined occupations and scope of practice, education reform cannot be fully effective. Once those foundations are in place, training pathways can be aligned with far greater precision. That clarity is what will ultimately strengthen training, define capability, and elevate the industry as a whole.’

While these industry reforms are in progress, clinics should continue prioritising compliance and demonstrating their capabilities accurately. ABIC developed their SafeSkin™ Certification for this reason, which helps clients identify clinics operating to recognised standards.

Caryll concludes: ʻCompliance should be the baseline, but going above and beyond builds trust, confidence, and long-term relationships with clients. Most importantly, we need to support one another as an industry. By sharing knowledge, investing in training, and holding ourselves to high standards, we can create a safer and more sustainable future for everyone.’

LIKE DAUGHTER Like Mother,

Few clinics can claim a history spanning more than four decades. Fewer still have managed to evolve that legacy across generations.

AT MELBOURNE’S Skintrition, founder Sandra Cannalonga and her daughter Stephanie have created something that’s equal parts heritage and ambition. Their Balwyn clinic is where 40 years of spa wisdom meets the latest in aesthetic technology.

Sandra entered the industry in her early twenties, setting up a treatment space in a bungalow behind her parents’ home while studying at Victoria University and working the counter at Clinique and Ella Baché. What started small grew steadily. By the early 90s she was building a 14-room day spa from the ground up in south Melbourne. It launched in 1994 on the exact day Stephanie was born, as if their future were written in the stars.

“SANDRA'S GROUNDING IN SPA AND WELLNESS PHILOSOPHY GIVES THE CLINIC ITS FOUNDATION; STEPHANIE'S APPETITE FOR INNOVATION KEEPS IT CURRENT.”

ʻThere was only one spa in the area at the time,’ Sandra says. ʻWithin a year there were seven. ’

Stephanie’s entry into the business was less intentional. After finishing school she enrolled in commerce at Deakin while working front-of-house at Skintrition. It was studying skin physiology – and watching her mother change women’s lives in the treatment room – that drew her to the industry. She went on to train in beauty therapy, facial massage, lymphatic drainage and advanced skin treatments. ʻIt brings me to tears how much I love my career,’ she says.

For Sandra, a passion for European spa culture has been a constant source of inspiration. She has travelled to spas and wellness centres across the continent for the better part of 30 years — now with Stephanie by her side. What began as a mother–daughter trip has become part of how Skintrition stays ahead: experiencing treatments firsthand, identifying emerging trends and returning with fresh perspective. Working together daily has sharpened both their instincts. Sandra’s grounding in spa and wellness philosophy gives the clinic its foundation; Stephanie’s appetite for innovation keeps it current.

ʻMum was ahead of her time in spa and wellness,’ she says.

That grounding never left the business but as Stephanie deepened her own studies, newer technology found its place alongside that foundation. iS Clinical, chosen for the way it bridges botanical and clinical seamlessly, also became a pivotal addition – a decision that paid off with Stephanie awarded Therapist of the Year – Victoria at this year ’s iS Clinical Awards.

Navigating a family business isn’t without friction. Both are candid about the strategies that keep things functional: separating meetings from home, writing ideas down before discussing, the occasional few days of communicating by text only. ʻSometimes it involves a few days of silence,’ Stephanie says, laughing. ʻBut we always come back together.’

What they wholeheartedly agree on is what matters most. Asked separately about the moment they knew they’d built something special, both give the same answer: their clients. The community Skintrition has cultivated over four decades is, for both of them, the real measure of success.

Words: Erin Berryman

| Photography: Supplied

Professional Beauty

EDUCATION

MORE THAN FACE VALUE

Erin Berryman discovers how the treatment with a 90% rebook rate can transform more than just your visage.

SOCIAL MEDIA has been awash with praise for Olga Newman’s sculptural facial massage technique, the Face Up Method. While I first encountered Olga’s work through Instagram, the clients walking through her door aren’t influencers. They’re busy professionals, time-poor mums, even Forbes-listed executives, she tells me. Clearly, those who've run out of patience with quick fixes exist at every end of the spectrum.

When I heard she’d be coming to Sydney for a rare one-day media session — rare, because she no longer sees private clients; her time is now devoted to training, education and speaking — I needed to experience what all the fuss was about.

When Olga walks into the treatment room she’s calm and composed, and looks, frankly, a decade younger than 42. She’s both the Face Up Method’s creator and its most convincing advertisement.

Despite her confident energy now, she admits she didn't always feel so comfortable with what she saw in the mirror.

At age 36, Olga completed her first face sculpting training and began working with clients, but quickly realised that conventional approaches weren’t answering her questions.

She dug deeper: into fascia science, posture alignment, body mechanics, somatics and the nervous system. Over five years and more than 2,000 faces, the Face Up Method was born.

It started with her own face, and initially, she admits, it was about appearance. But very quickly, it became something more.

My session

The session begins with a consultation that bears little resemblance to the standard intake form. Olga isn’t interested in your breakouts or your skin type. She wants to know your posture, your breathing patterns, your stress load, your daily habits.

Then she walked me through the principles that underpin Face Up. For someone who’s worked in the beauty industry for a decade, I’m not ashamed to admit most of what she taught me in those first thirty minutes was entirely new.

The Face Up philosophy is built on a deceptively simple premise: the face does not age in isolation. Fascia, posture, the nervous system — load one, and the face pays the price. Chronic stress, poor biomechanics, a tight chest: all of it shows up eventually, in ways no serum can reverse.

Despite its name, the Face Up Method is not a face-only treatment.

In fact, up to 70–80% of a typical session is spent on the

Words: Erin Berryman

| Photography: Supplied

“FACE UP CLIENTS DON’T JUST LEAVE LOOKING DIFFERENT — THEY LEAVE FEELING DIFFERENT.”

neck, chest, shoulders and scalp. The treatment is fully tailored to the individual assessment, never repeated, and never formulaic. Buccal massage, the closest comparison I had prior, does feature but as a final refinement, not the main event.

What clients actually feel

The invitation I received warned me I might feel ʻlow-battery mode’ or unexpectedly emotional afterwards. Or, I could feel light and full of energy. Either way, I was told to expect very deep sleep that night and a face that would continue ʻprogressing’ over the following days.

As for my own verdict: I won't pretend I clocked a dramatic difference in the mirror. But there was something I couldn’t put my finger on, like a lightness I carried into the days that followed, and that night’s sleep was on another level. Which, when you consider that Face Up isn't selling you a surface result, might be exactly the point? I can only imagine the compounding results over time with regular treatments.

Face Up clients don’t just leave looking different — they leave feeling different. Her clients often describe the experience as life-changing: a weight lifted, years of tension dissolved from the face and body. Practitioners report that clients come in about wrinkles and leave saying their headaches are gone. The return rate sits consistently between 90 and 99 per cent.

One of the most fascinating changes Olga observes in long-term clients is in the eyes. They become clearer, brighter, more open. The beforeand-after images she shares are remarkable: the kind of transformation you’d easily mistake for the work of a needle.

Training the next generation

Olga no longer practises privately, instead focusing on education and the method’s global expansion. To date, more than 550 practitioners have trained in Face Up across Australia, New Zealand, North America, Europe and the UK, with over 100 fully certified. Demand is accelerating with courses recently held in Christchurch, Auckland, Sydney and Melbourne. Canada is next on the calendar, before she returns to Australia again.

The structure reflects the philosophy: students complete 25–30 hours of online theory before two and a half intensive in-person days, with significant focus on the practitioner's own body. You cannot deliver the treatment, Newman says, without embodying it first.

The commercial proposition is compelling. In Australia, treatments are typically priced between $250 and $450, with most practitioners sitting around $300 per session. Minimal product investment keeps margins strong, and most recoup their training costs within three to six weeks.

The Face Up Method arrives at a defining moment: one where clients are growing sceptical of correction and actively seeking something that offers genuine, felt change. Whether or not you subscribe to every layer of her philosophy, the results — and the loyalty of the clients who keep coming back — are difficult to argue with.

To enquire about joining The Face Up Method’s next training intake, visit www.faceup.pro/training

Mastering

CONSULTATIONS

As the role of practitioners evolves from salesperson to expert, so do consultations, writes Amy Hadley.

CRYSTAL PATEL, managing director of Clinica Lase Skin and Laser Clinic, shares how practitioners can leverage consultations to build trust and demonstrate expertise before starting a treatment.

There's been a shift from skin consultations as a sales tool to an expert-led service. How has your approach evolved?

Earlier in my career, consultations were largely treatment-driven, focused on identifying a concern and matching it to a procedure. Over time, through both experience and a review of the literature, it became clear that this approach is limited. Research in aesthetic practice consistently shows that satisfaction is more strongly influenced by communication, trust, and expectation management than the treatment itself.

My approach has shifted to being far more diagnostic. I'm assessing not only what is visible on the skin but also the underlying drivers, barrier function, inflammation, vascularity, lifestyle, and previous treatment history. The consultation is no longer about selecting a treatment. It's about forming a clinical understanding of the skin and building a structured plan based on that.

How do more in-depth consultations change the dynamic between practitioners and clients?

At its core, the consultation is a conversation. When clients feel heard, it directly impacts trust. Studies show that clinician communication and perceived empathy are strongly associated with both adherence and satisfaction.

From a practical perspective, this improves compliance. When clients understand what is occurring in their skin and the rationale behind a treatment plan, they are far more likely to follow it. It also allows for effective expectation management, which is critical in aesthetics.

What benefits have you seen from incorporating in-depth consultations into your client journey?

The most notable outcome has been improved retention. Clients are more likely to stay engaged when they feel understood and when results are consistent and progressive. There has also been a clear improvement in outcomes, as treatment plans are more targeted from the outset. This reduces the need for reactive or corrective approaches later. In addition, both treatment uptake and home care compliance improve when clients understand the rationale behind recommendations. This aligns with evidence showing that education is a key driver of adherence.

From a team perspective, it creates consistency. Clinicians are working within a clear framework, which strengthens confidence and clinical decision-making.

What signals to a client that they're speaking with an expert, rather than being sold to?

An expert-led consultation prioritises understanding before making recommendations. There is a clear clinical rationale behind every suggestion, and it's communicated in a way the client can understand. There's also transparency. This includes discussing limitations, outlining what may not be appropriate, and setting realistic expectations around outcomes and timelines. There's no urgency, no pressure: just a well-considered explanation and a plan.

Want to elevate your consultations? ABIC is hosting an exclusive masterclass with James Vivian to master his award-winning Signature Consultation Method. www.theabic.org.au/events/

Words: Amy Hadley

Photography: Supplied

Professional Beauty

BUSINESS

HIRE

power

Aesthetics industry recruitment specialist Louise Guilfoyle shares her roadmap for attracting, hiring and retaining exceptional talent.

IN TODAY’S beauty, salon and aesthetics industry, recruitment has become one of the biggest challenges for owners. But more importantly, it has become one of the biggest opportunities. Because the reality is, your team is your brand.

The true cost of getting it wrong

Hiring the wrong person is one of the most expensive mistakes a clinic can make — and the costs go beyond the obvious. Advertising, onboarding time and salary paid during low productivity are just the beginning.

The ripple effects can be significant too: strained teams, damaged client relationships, lost referrals and negative reviews that affect your reputation long after the person has gone.

Words: Amy Hadley

| Photography: iStock/Supplied

Words: Louise Guilfoyle

| Photography: iStock/Supplied

It reinforces a simple truth: hiring isn't just an operational task; it's a critical business decision. Yet many clinics are still approaching it reactively, without a clear structure or strategy in place. If you want to build a high-performing clinic, hiring needs to be intentional.

A guide to avoiding common hiring mistakes

1. Build a better recruitment process

In my experience working with clinics, most hiring challenges don’t come from a lack of candidates, they come from a lack of structure. For example:

• Hiring reactively when someone leaves

• Relying solely on job ads

• Hiring based on “gut feel” rather than clear criteria and job description

• Focusing too heavily on résumé and interview selection, prioritising experience over attitude and behaviour

High-performing clinics slow this down. They are clear on what success looks like before they hire and make decisions based on long-term fit, not short-term urgency.

2. Understand what the next generation of therapists wants They think differently about their careers. It’s no longer just about salary. They are looking for:

• Career progression and development

• Training and upskilling opportunities

• Positive, supportive team culture

• Work-life balance

• A sense of purpose, community and belonging

The numbers

A single poor hiring decision can trigger a cascade of losses. Here's a snapshot of what it can cost your clinic, according to Australian data.

If your clinic cannot clearly communicate this, you will struggle to attract and retain them, no matter how good the role is.

3. Compete for talent, don’t wait for it

The best candidates are rarely applying for jobs. They are already employed, selective and often approached directly. This means clinics need to shift from passive hiring to a more proactive mindset.

Ask yourself:

• Does your job ad stand out, or does it look like everyone else’s?

• Are you actively promoting your clinic culture?

• Are you engaging with potential talent before you need them? Consider working with a recruitment agent to widen the scope of candidates you meet. Clinics that consistently hire well don’t rely on luck; they position themselves as desirable places to work.

4. Your reputation is your strongest recruitment tool

Candidates are researching you before they even apply. Your social media, website, reviews and team presence all tell a story about what it’s like to work in your clinic. In many cases, this influences a candidate’s decision more than the job description itself. Strong clinics are intentional about this. They showcase:

• Their team culture

• Their client experiences

• Their values and standards

Because reputation doesn’t just attract clients, it attracts talent.

5. Retention starts from day one

Hiring doesn’t end when the contract is signed. In fact, this is where many clinics fall short.

A lack of structure in the first few weeks can lead to confusion, underperformance and early turnover. I’ve seen in some instances up to 50% of new hires leave within the first six months due to poor onboarding experiences.

Clinics that retain great staff:

• Set clear expectations early

• Provide structured onboarding

• Invest in ongoing development

• Create an environment where people feel valued and supported

• 30–50% of an employee's annual salary — the estimated cost of a poor hiring decision

• For an $80,000 role, that loss could look like a minimum of $24,000–$40,000

• $18,000 in lost revenue from two months without a hire

• $20,000+ lost to an underperforming team member over just a few months

• 50% of new hires can leave within the first six months due to poor onboarding

Source: Louise Guilfoyle, Skin Deep Careers

Hiring isn’t just about filling a role, it’s about protecting your revenue, your reputation and your future growth.

The clinics that succeed in today’s market are not necessarily the biggest or the most established. They are the ones who approach recruitment with clarity, consistency and intention.

For many clinic owners, the challenge isn’t understanding this, it’s finding the time to implement it properly while running a business. That’s where having the right support can make all the difference.

Because when you get hiring right, everything else in your clinic becomes easier.

Louise Guilfoyle is the founder of Skin Deep Careers – an international executive search agency for the medical, beauty and aesthetics industry.

TAX TIME FOR CLINICS: YOUR EOFY QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Mark Chapman, H&R Block director of tax communications, answers the questions clinic owners are asking as 30 June approaches.

Are there particular areas where beauty or aesthetic businesses tend to trigger ATO scrutiny?

Record-keeping and accurate income reporting remain key focus areas. Clinics where income appears inconsistent with appointment volumes, industry benchmarks or electronic payment data may attract attention. Another common issue is incorrectly claiming expenses with both private and business use — motor vehicles, phones or homebased clinic costs — without apportioning the business portion. Errors also arise where high-value equipment or fit-out costs are claimed upfront when they should be depreciated over time.

Many aesthetic clinics invest in high-value devices such as lasers, RF or body contouring equipment. How are these typically treated from a tax perspective?

High-value treatment devices are generally treated as capital assets and claimed over time through depreciation, based on their effective life. Depending on current government measures and eligibility criteria, some small businesses may be able to access instant asset write-off provisions. As thresholds and eligibility rules can change, it is important to confirm the applicable treatment at the time of purchase.

What are the most common mistakes clinics make when claiming equipment?

A frequent mistake is claiming the full cost of equipment immediately when the asset should be depreciated over several years. Insufficient documentation around purchase date, installation date or business use percentage is also common. Some clinics overlook associated costs — delivery, installation or software components — that form part of the total depreciable asset cost. Maintaining a clear asset register helps ensure claims are accurate and substantiated.

Clinics often upgrade equipment before it's fully depreciated. Are there tax considerations around this?

Where equipment is replaced before the end of its effective life, the remaining written-down value may generally be claimed in the year the asset is disposed of. If equipment is sold or traded in, any proceeds received may affect the final deductible amount. Reviewing upgrade decisions alongside a tax adviser can help ensure the timing of replacement is both commercially and tax effective.

What parts of a treatment room fit-out are typically deductible, and what needs to be depreciated?

Structural improvements such as cabinetry, plumbing, flooring and electrical work are generally treated as capital works and claimed over time. Items that are not permanently fixed — treatment beds or specialised equipment — may be depreciated as plant and equipment. Repairs that restore a space to its original condition may be immediately deductible, whereas improvements that enhance or substantially change the space are usually claimed over multiple years.

How does the ATO treat education expenses for practitioners completing advanced training?

Education expenses are generally deductible where training maintains or improves skills required in a practitioner's current role. Training on new treatment technologies, updated protocols or advanced techniques would typically be considered directly related to current income-producing activities. Expenses are generally not deductible where training is designed to help a person enter a new profession or substantially change career direction.

Are subscriptions such as booking platforms, CRM systems or marketing software typically deductible?

Subscription-based software used in the day-to-day running of a clinic is generally treated as an operating expense where it is used for income-producing purposes. This may include booking platforms, client management systems, accounting software, marketing tools or professional education platforms — digital expenses that are increasingly common and can be easily overlooked at EOFY.

How is retail skincare inventory treated from a tax perspective?

Retail products are generally treated as trading stock, meaning businesses must account for the value of stock on hand at the beginning and end of the financial year. Changes in stock levels may affect taxable income, so maintaining accurate inventory records is important. Adjustments may be available for obsolete or expired stock where appropriate documentation is retained.

Many clinics sell prepaid treatment packages and gift vouchers. When is this income recognised?

The timing of income recognition depends on the accounting method used and the structure of the arrangement. In many cases, prepaid packages and vouchers may be recognised as income when received; in others, income may be recognised as services are delivered. Accurate tracking of sales and redemptions helps ensure income is correctly reported — particularly during peak retail periods. ■ For tailored advice, visit www.hrblock.com.au

Words: Mark Chapman | Photography: iStock

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moment THIS IS OUR

Stefanie Milla, CEO and founding director of the Aesthetic & Beauty Industry Council (ABIC), explains why the review of beauty qualifications matters more than ever.

FOR YEARS, many of us across the beauty industry have carried the same frustration. Employers have had to retrain graduates, while educators have worked around course structures that no longer reflect the realities of modern beauty and skin practice. Professionals have completed qualifications containing units that do not always align with the direction they want to take in their careers, and students have entered with passion only to find that parts of the learning journey feel disconnected from the treatment rooms, salons and clinics they hope to work in.

That is exactly why this moment matters. After several years of research, evidence gathering and advocacy undertaken by Skills and Creative Services Australia, SaCSA in collaboration with ABIC, and with industry feedback, the case for change in regards to the beauty training packages has now been approved by government. In practical terms, that means funding has been secured to open key beauty qualifications for review, with the project expected to commence in early May.

SaCSA CEO Natalie Turmine says, 'We are excited to be working with ABIC on this critically needed update. Together we can bring stronger alignment between training and real-world needs, we can build a workforce that is skilled, sustainable, and future-ready. This industry has never stood still, and that adaptability is exactly what will carry it into a stronger future.'

The qualifications set to be reviewed are Certificate III in Beauty Services, Certificate III in Make-Up, Certificate III in Nail Technology, Certificate IV in Beauty Therapy, and the Diploma of Beauty Therapy.

This is not a minor update. It is one of the most important opportunities our profession has had in decades to influence the future of beauty education, workforce capability and professional identity.

What is actually being reviewed?

Three things matter most here: content, structure and delivery.

First, the content of the courses must be reviewed so it reflects what is genuinely needed in industry today. That means asking honest questions. What knowledge and skills are still essential? What is outdated? What is missing? What do graduates need to know to be safe, capable, commercially aware and genuinely employable?

Second, the course structure must be reconsidered. Our industry is broad, layered and increasingly specialised. A one-size-fits-all pathway no longer reflects the way beauty actually works. Some professionals want to work in spa and wellness. Others want to focus on skin health and results-driven treatments. Others may specialise in beauty services, nails, grooming, make-up, client care or retail-supported service models. That does not mean we abandon strong foundations. It means we need to structure training in a way that respects those foundations while recognising the diverse directions our industry now takes.

A therapist whose passion lies in spa rituals and wellness should not be pushed through an overly rigid structure built around skill areas they may never use. Equally, a practitioner pursuing results-driven skin work needs training that better reflects that pathway. The same applies to beauty professionals whose businesses are centred on nails, make-up or other service niches that deserve proper educational clarity.

Third, the delivery of training must be examined. How is learning delivered so that it is understandable, engaging and practical? How do we make sure graduates are not only assessed, but prepared? How do we improve the learner experience so that training is modern and connected to real workplaces?

These are not small questions. They go to the heart of whether our qualifications are genuinely fit for purpose.

As Natalie explains, 'This review is critical to ensuring our qualifications genuinely reflect the realities of today's industry. Without that alignment, we will continue to see a gap between what businesses need and the supply of skilled, job-ready professionals.'

The success of this review depends directly on the quality and quantity of feedback that comes from industry.

SaCSA and ABIC are not here to speak for you. We are here to help organise, facilitate and elevate industry feedback into a process that government and training structures can act on. But we cannot manufacture consensus on behalf of the profession, and we cannot guess what every salon owner, therapist, educator, trainer, employer, student or graduate needs.

That means your voice matters more than ever.

It is not enough to say the current system is not working. We need detail. We need practitioners and businesses to tell us what is working, what is not, what should remain core, what should become elective, what should be sequenced differently, what should be strengthened, what should be removed, and what

Words:

Stefanie Milla

| Photography: Supplied/iStock

Stefanie Milla and Natalie Turmine

needs to be introduced so our future workforce is competent, confident and relevant.

We need educators to tell us where students are struggling. We need employers to tell us where graduates are not job-ready. We need recent students and graduates to tell us what felt useful, what felt disconnected and what did not translate into real capability.

As Natalie puts it, 'If we want a workforce that is skilled, sustainable and future-ready, we need qualifications that keep pace with innovation, technology and the real-world demands of salons, clinics and businesses across the country.'

There is also a lesson here for all of us.

Across the wider personal services sector, we have already seen how difficult reform becomes when stakeholder groups pull in different directions.

In the hairdressing package, there were strongly opposing views about how qualifications should be structured and delivered. That disagreement is understandable. Reform is rarely neat, but it does offer a lesson.

Beauty cannot afford to approach this process as fragmented camps defending narrow interests.

We need to come into this review in a spirit of collaboration and maturity. We need to hear differing views with an open mind, debate well, and focus less on what suits our own immediate interests and more on what will create the strongest package for the profession as a whole. If we let legacy thinking, convenience or personal gain lead our feedback, we risk designing yesterday's qualifications for tomorrow's workforce.

What

matters most is the outcome.

ABIC Councillor Helen Golisano says, 'ABIC has strong beauty therapy representation at the table, with both Stefanie and I serving on SaCSA's SWAG, supported by ABIC Councillors and technical committees dedicated to ensuring industry feedback is heard, respected and translated into meaningful reform.'

That representation matters, but representation alone is not enough. For this process to succeed, industry feedback must be strong. If you want qualifications that make sense, build capability, support specialisation, improve job readiness and strengthen the future of our workforce, this is your moment to get involved.

Join the conversation. Show up to consultation opportunities. Read the material properly. Give considered feedback. Encourage your teams, trainers, peers and graduates to do the same.

Most importantly, if you want to play a more active role in shaping the future of beauty education in Australia, join the ABIC Education Committee.

We have one chance to get the fundamentals right. Let's use it well. ■ Applications can be submitted here: www.theabic.org.au/abic-education-committee

Grey ZONE THE

In the battle for consumer attention it's easy to unintentionally cross into problematic territory. What you can and can't say isn't always black and white.

The cosmetic–therapeutic boundary

In Australia, skincare products are either regulated as cosmetics or as therapeutics, but knowing where the line is can be a challenge – especially for products that sit “at the interface”, like cosmetic sunscreens and acne products, where the claims play a big role in how they’re regulated.

Unless a product is included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods, its claims – including ingredient claims – need to relate to cosmetic effects only, meaning visible, temporary effects like maintaining and protecting the appearance of skin. Claims related to treating skin conditions or affecting physiological processes are generally therapeutic.

A common misconception is that “cosmeceutical” products sit in their own category – they are still cosmetics. I often see claims that cross into therapeutic territory, such as “stimulates collagen production”, “anti-inflammatory”, “treats melasma”, “DNA repair”, “hormone-balancing” and “heals post-treatment skin”. Widespread doesn’t automatically mean compliant, and as longevity-focused skincare grows, problematic claims are likely to increase. Ingredient suppliers and educators aren’t always bound by the same restrictions either, so their claims may not apply to you.

Truth and transparency

Brands and clinics need to make sure they aren’t misleading or deceptive. Terms like “natural” and “clean” have no regulatory definition, others like “clinically proven” and “microbiome-friendly” are often used loosely, and some like “ecofriendly” are so vague they don’t really mean anything.

It’s not just about what you say. Before-and-after photos with different lighting, retouching, or AI-generated imagery, can be problematic too. What you’re showing or saying needs to reflect a genuine, typical outcome.

With both the ACCC and consumers scrutinising claims more closely, these are risks beauty businesses can’t afford to ignore.

Navigating the grey zone

Whether you’re creating content or updating product descriptions, a good starting point is to ask yourself these questions:

• Is this product claiming to treat or heal something?

• Is this product claiming to change how the skin or body functions?

• Can I prove what I’m saying?

• Could this be misinterpreted?

But it’s often not a simple yes or no - the overall context matters. When I review claims or develop claims guidelines for clients, I use a traffic-light system, because it helps see where claims sit on the risk spectrum and the boundaries.

From compliant to credible

When claims are honest, transparent and have your customers’ best interests at heart, they move beyond just being compliant – they become credible. This is what I call Clear Beauty. In an industry built on transformation, trust is what sets you apart – and it’s what makes you the obvious choice. ■

Jennifer Rudd is a cosmetic regulatory consultant and Founder of Skincare Business Foundations, specialising in claims, labelling and the cosmetic–therapeutic boundary.

Words:

Jennifer Rudd | Photography: Supplied

“ONE OF THE BIGGEST SHIFTS I’VE OBSERVED IS THAT CLINIC OWNERS ARE NO LONGER COMPARING THEMSELVES TO THEIR LOCAL MARKET, BUT TO THE MOST VISIBLE EXAMPLES ONLINE.”

SUBSTANCE OVER SHOW

Social media has created distorted expectations of success, writes aesthetics industry consultant Jade Spehr.

SOCIAL MEDIA has fundamentally reshaped the beauty industry. It influences how clinics market, how clients choose providers and how success is perceived. Highly curated interiors, viral treatment videos and large followings have become signals of credibility.

But increasingly, those signals are being questioned, because while social media has created visibility, it has also distorted what success in a clinic actually looks like.

When perception becomes the benchmark

The modern clinic is no longer just a business. It is a brand, content platform and visual experience. Highly curated spaces and polished branding have become the standard many clinic owners feel they need to meet, often early in their journey.

One of the biggest shifts I’ve observed is that clinic owners are no longer comparing themselves to their local market, but to the most visible examples online. The problem is, those examples are often a highlight, not a full picture.

What appears to be ʻnormal’ success is often far removed from what is financially sustainable.

The visibility trap

Social media has changed how clinics attract attention. Viral content can create rapid visibility and the impression of demand and authority. But visibility is not the same as credibility.

I often see clinics become known for what performs well online, rather than what delivers the best outcomes for clients. Follower count has become a shortcut for perceived expertise, yet it rarely reflects clinical skill, retention, or business stability.

Some of the most capable and profitable clinics I work with have modest online presence, while some of the most visible are under pressure behind the scenes.

What you don’t see behind the scenes

There is a growing gap between how clinics appear and how they operate.

One of the most common patterns I see is clinics that are busy and visible, yet operating with little to no surplus cashflow once expenses are paid. Revenue is immediately absorbed by:

• Debt repayments

• High fixed overheads

• Wage pressure

• Ongoing marketing costs

From the outside, it looks like growth. Internally, it feels like survival. In many cases, the business has been built to look successful before it is financially stable, creating pressure that becomes difficult to sustain.

The

pressure to ‘look successful’

This environment creates real pressure for clinic owners. There is an expectation to not only build a successful business, but to consistently present one.

I regularly speak with owners who feel like they are falling behind, despite running solid businesses. This often drives decisions that prioritise perception over performance. Investing heavily in fit-outs too early, expanding before the business is ready, spending on marketing without the systems to support growth. These decisions are reactive and financially, that is where risk builds.

When appearance influences trust

Presentation still plays a role in how clients choose a clinic, but it doesn’t hold if the experience doesn’t match it. Clients are more perceptive. They notice

inconsistency, high staff turnover and when recommendations feel sales-driven.

Trust is no longer built on how a clinic looks. It is built on how it operates.

The clinics that are quietly performing

At the same time, another group of clinics is emerging. They are not always the most visible online. Their spaces are considered, but not excessive. Their marketing is consistent, but not trend-driven.

What they do have is:

• Strong consultation processes

• Clear treatment planning

• Consistent client experience

• Financial control

These clinics prioritise retention and focus on outcomes, not attention. Importantly, they are profitable. These are the businesses that tend to have longevity.

What clients are responding to

Clients are more informed, cautious and selective. While aesthetics still matter, they are no longer the deciding factor.

Clients are increasingly drawn to:

• Trust and transparency

• Clear communication

• Consistency in results

• Personal connection They want to feel understood, not sold to. Connection is becoming more powerful than curation.

Recommendations for clinic owners

This shift presents an opportunity to refocus on what drives sustainable success.

• Build financial foundations first: Profitability and surplus cashflow should come before significant investment or expansion.

• Separate visibility from credibility: Online presence should reflect the business, not replace it.

• Prioritise consultation and experience: Trust is built through communication and consistency.

• Focus on retention: A loyal client base creates stability.

• Define success intentionally: The most successful businesses are often the most considered.

Social media has changed the industry, but it has also created a version of success that is not always grounded in reality. The clinics that will lead the next phase are not those that look the most successful online, but those built on strong foundations behind the scenes.

Because in today’s market, substance builds trust and trust builds longevity. ■

JadeStart is an international coaching, consulting and marketing company for the Aesthetic and Beauty Industries. Jade is an admitted Lawyer, Undergraduate Accountant and former PwC and Deloitte Insolvency and Consulting Specialist. To find out more, visit www.jadestart.com

“THAT'S NOT MINE TO TREAT”

The most trusted therapists, Rachel Medlock discovers, may just be the ones who refer out.

TELLING A client you're not the right person for the job sounds like a terrible business strategy, but some of our industry's most respected skin therapists are building their reputations on exactly that: knowing when to stop, step back, and send a client to someone else.

Today's referral network doesn't stop at the GP or dermatologist. It stretches into naturopathy, nutrition, Chinese medicine, osteopathy, women's health physiotherapy, pelvic floor work, acupuncture, kinesiology, and modalities that would have raised more than a few eyebrows at an industry conference ten years ago.

Lindy Bekerman, founder of The Peaceful Skin Co, trained in the UK, where multidisciplinary care was part of the curriculum. For her, referring out has never felt like a limitation; it's just how she practises. One client reinforced why.

Lindy's client presented with rosacea and a history of coeliac disease. After solid progress through trigger reduction and barrier support, a stubborn redness persisted that didn't track with the expected outcome. Deeper conversation revealed her cycle hadn't returned since having a baby three years earlier. Lindy referred her to a Chinese medicine doctor working within a broader medical network. She was later diagnosed with endometriosis and adenomyosis, both of which were treated surgically. Her rosacea has since stabilised significantly.

“FOR SOME CLIENTS, THE MOST IMPORTANT REFERRAL A SKIN THERAPIST CAN MAKE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SKIN.”

For some clients, the most important referral a skin therapist can make has nothing to do with skin. Lindy also refers to a psychologist when a client opens that door, never the other way around. "So much of what we see in the skin is influenced by emotional wellbeing," she says.

Emma Boysen, founder of Treasured Day Spa, had a client present with lower back pain after seeing chiropractors, osteopaths and physios with no relief. She'd booked a relaxation massage, hoping that would fix it. Emma had other ideas.

"Taking in their full history, I can see they've given birth three times, one ending in an emergency C-section. I know that dysfunction in the pelvic floor or weak core muscles can lead to referred lower back pain. From here, I can ask further questions and begin to flip through my mental rolodex of professionals," she shares. It's the kind of thinking that happens when a therapist is paying attention to the whole picture, not just the booking.

A referral only works when there's trust on both sides – not just between therapist and client, but between the practitioners themselves.

Eleni Cico, founder of Mata Wellbeing, works across both skin therapy and naturopathy. She regularly refers to functional and integrative GPs, fertility-focused naturopaths, kinesiologists, osteopaths, and clinicians working with advanced modalities.

"I'm very intentional about referring to practitioners who take a similar holistic, clientcentred approach, so the client experience feels seamless," she explains.

For all three, the referral is more than a name scribbled on the back of a business card; it's coordinated care. Each favours a warm handoff, emailing the receiving practitioner with a case outline (with consent) so the client feels supported from the moment they walk through a new door, not like they're starting over.

So what stops other therapists from doing the same? For most, it comes back to fear that the referral makes you look less capable, or worse, costs you the client.

“I'M VERY INTENTIONAL ABOUT REFERRING TO PRACTITIONERS WHO TAKE A SIMILAR HOLISTIC, CLIENT-CENTRED APPROACH, SO THE CLIENT EXPERIENCE FEELS SEAMLESS.”

Emma, who freely admits she ignored everything she was taught about referring out in her early career, flips it: "One of the most valuable phrases I was given as a young therapist was 'I don't know, but I will find out for you.' I like to adapt that into this scenario: 'I don't have the answer, but I know might.'"

Then there's the version of this story nobody loves telling: what happens when the client doesn't come back. Eleni is candid. She once referred a client to another clinic to address melasma. That clinic transitioned the client to their own skincare range, and now she returns only occasionally for relaxation-based treatments.

"Of course, that can feel really uncomfortable initially," she says, "but I always come back to the intention. I referred her because that was in her best interest." Lindy has been there too, but keeps it pragmatic: "We don't own our clients."

The therapists building the deepest client loyalty aren't the ones trying to hold everything. They're the ones who've worked out where their value sits, and who understand that saying "not me, but I know who" isn't a loss of authority. It might be the sharpest expression of it. ■

CLIENTConfidential

The real test of professional trust? How you handle it when things go wrong. Jo Casamento explores the difficult conversations that define great practitioners.

THE TREATMENT room can be a place of transformation, but it can also be a pressure cooker.

A client is upset about a breakout before an event. Another is questioning your pricing. Someone else is demanding a treatment you know isn’t safe.

For practitioners, the real test of professionalism isn’t just technical skill, but how they navigate the moments where expectations, emotions and reality collide.

From price objections to treatment refusals, these are the difficult conversations that define trust and ultimately long-term client relationships.

THE PROBLEM: A client is highly emotional and anxious about their skin

THE APPROACH:

For Gry Tomte, founder of Melbourne’s HUD Skin & Body, empathy and reassurance are critical in diffusing emotion.

ʻPurging post treatment is a big emotional trigger for many,’ says Gry, who recalls a client who became anxious and combative after a breakout ahead of travel, despite being pre-warned.

ʻWe told her we absolutely understand how distressing a breakout like this feels, especially when you’re going away. “I know it doesn’t feel like it, but I want to assure you that what is happening is the skin doing its job. This is a temporary process and we’re here to help you navigate through it as quickly as possible.”’

At Sydney’s Fayshell, the approach is similarly grounded.

ʻWe take the time to truly understand the client’s concerns and goals,’ says director Katelin Gregg. ʻIt’s important to listen with empathy, remain calm, and validate their feelings.’

With over 30 years of experience, Matty Samei, founder of the Medispa by Matty in Double Bay, takes a more direct approach when anxiety escalates.

ʻIn times like that I would rather not treat them. If someone is extremely anxious, I work with them a lot slower. But I would also bring up to them that, “listen, you are anxious about this, you are stressing” — it’s important to be upfront that there’s only so much I can do,’ she says.

THE PROBLEM: When you need to refuse treatment THE APPROACH:

Few situations test confidence more than saying no.

Gry recalls a client demanding a BBL treatment without completing a required patch test, then becoming irate when the procedure was refused.

ʻThe clinician calmly explained why a patch test is necessary... she could either leave the appointment altogether or she could perform the patch test.’

When expectations continued to misalign, the clinic held firm: ʻSafety is a nonnegotiable for our practice... we’re sorry we can’t meet your expectations. We will refund your patch test fee and cancel your booking. We wish you all the best.’

The outcome, including a one-star review, reinforced an important point.

ʻSometimes the trust you need to maintain is that of the team member you’re backing when they are in a difficult spot.’

At Fayshell, when a client arrived for skin needling under the influence of alcohol, they were unable to proceed.

ʻIt would have been unsafe and irresponsible to perform the treatment,’ says Katelin. ʻWe calmly explained why we’re unable to proceed. By reinforcing their safety is our priority we’re able to maintain trust and preserve the relationship.’

THE

PROBLEM:

A client is unhappy with their results

THE APPROACH:

Handling dissatisfaction starts with removing emotion and setting realistic expectations from the outset.

ʻIt’s not personal,’ says Gry. ʻThey’re unhappy because something didn’t live up to the expectation they had. We say “I can hear you’re feeling frustrated. Help me understand how you’re seeing things.”’

Katelin steps in with a personal phone call if someone is unhappy. Her approach is structured: ʻListen, understand, and empathise... then provide a solution. Where appropriate, we invite them back for a complimentary treatment or review appointment.’

Matty relies on documentation and transparency.

ʻThe number one thing I do is take photos... you’d be surprised how people forget what they looked like. But I always go back to the original consultation where I do spend the time and keep very accurate, detailed notes.

ʻSometimes the patient can be right. If the result hasn’t been satisfactory, I always try to fix it to a reasonable level. You can’t always match client expectations, so I educate them around this.’

THE PROBLEM: ‘Why is it more expensive here?’

THE APPROACH:

Pricing conversations are where many practitioners lose confidence, but according to beauty business coach Jade Spehr, founder of JadeStart, the moment you start adjusting price, you undermine your positioning.

ʻPricing becomes emotional because it’s where value is questioned, not just cost. The mistake is trying to justify or defend the price. Instead, anchor back to outcomes. Be clear, calm and matter of fact,’ she says, suggesting practitioners keep the response simple:

ʻThere are always cheaper options, but what we focus on here is consistency, safety and results tailored to you using the best quality products.’

In one situation where a client became abrupt, insisting they could get the treatment elsewhere for half the price, Jade says the practitioner didn’t react or try to match it, but calmly stated that if you prioritise price, there are options, but if your priority is outcome, this is what she recommended.

ʻThe client went ahead with treatment. Not because the price changed, but because the practitioner stayed anchored in value and didn’t get pulled into emotion.’

Katelin agrees confidence is key.

ʻWe approach pricing conversations with confidence and clarity,’ she says. ʻWhat we focus on here is delivering consistent, highquality results with tailored treatments and experienced therapists.’

At a clinical level, Gry notes that objections often point to earlier gaps in the consultation.

ʻIf someone says during a consultation “that’s too expensive”, either you haven’t asked enough questions or you haven’t built enough trust.’

“IF SOMEONE SAYS DURING A CONSULTATION “THAT’S TOO EXPENSIVE”, EITHER YOU HAVEN’T ASKED ENOUGH QUESTIONS OR YOU HAVEN’T BUILT ENOUGH TRUST.”

For Matty, the framing is simpler.

ʻAging is a natural progression of life. If you don’t want to age, there’s a price attached to it. Not aging is a luxury!’

The takeaway: price objections are rarely about price alone. They’re about trust, clarity and perceived value.

THE PROBLEM: A client shares sensitive personal information THE APPROACH:

The treatment room is, by nature, an intimate space, and with that comes responsibility.

ʻThe goal is always to be empathetic but protect boundaries,’ says Gry.

In more serious situations, professional judgement becomes critical. In one instance involving a client expressing intent to self-harm, the clinic made the decision to escalate beyond confidentiality protocols, prioritising safety.

At Fayshell: ʻWe approach the conversation with empathy. We may check in to ensure the client is okay... but we avoid offering personal advice or becoming overly involved.’

Matty is also clear in maintaining professional boundaries.

ʻI don’t get involved with my client’s personal life. I’m not a therapist. I actually tell people that — “you need a therapist for that; that’s not my job”. I listen... I say, “I’m sorry you’re feeling like that, I understand”... and I leave it at that.’

The takeaway

Handling difficult conversations is not a side skill in this industry — it’s a cornerstone, says Gry.

The way practitioners respond in these moments defines not only the outcome of the interaction, but the integrity of the business itself.

ʻProfessionalism isn’t just about expertise,’ says Katelin. ʻIt’s about how you make someone feel, especially when things don't go to plan.’

ʻWe’re not magicians, we don’t have a magic wand,’ says Matty, ʻbut people come to improve their lives, to look after themselves, to be empowered. It’s about education, balance and helping people feel confident.’

Because in the end, trust isn’t built when everything goes smoothly.

It’s built in how you respond when it doesn’t. ■

TRIED & TESTED

Professional Beauty

SEAL OF APPROVAL

PB steps into the treatment room to experience the latest innovations first-hand.

IDENEL Glassifier

What it is: A biomicroneedling treatment using spicules — microscopic needle-like structures derived from marine sponges — massaged into the skin to create micro-channels that both stimulate collagen production and allow active ingredients to penetrate far deeper than topical skincare. Spicules remain in the skin for one to three days, sustaining the repair response.

Indications: Dull skin, enlarged pores, uneven texture, fine lines, pigmentation, early ageing, rosacea.

Typical protocol: Three to five treatments two to four weeks apart.

Verdict: ʻI’ve now had three Glassifier sessions over five months at Future Clinic in Double Bay. It is quite simply one of the best treatments I’ve ever had — and the results back that up. Texture, tone and clarity have all shifted noticeably, with people openly commenting on how good my skin looks and asking what I’ve been doing. My skin looked dewy and youthful immediately afterward, with just a touch of redness that dissipates within a couple of hours. The next day, a slight prickly feeling when you touch the skin signals the spicules working their way in, resolving within 24 to 48 hours. In the days and weeks following, skin just keeps getting better!’ — JD (Julie Davidson, PB National Sales Manager) Distributor: www.idenel.com.au

Hydrafacial

What it is: A multi-step facial delivering vortex-powered exfoliation, extraction, hydration and targeted serum infusion in a single session. Boosters are selected based on individual skin concerns, making the protocol highly adaptable. No needles, minimal irritation, very little recovery time.

Indications: Congestion, dehydration, dullness, uneven texture. Suitable for sensitive skin.

Typical protocol: Standalone for an immediate glow or three to six sessions two to four weeks apart to support cumulative improvements.

Verdict: ʻMy second Hydrafacial in three months — and just as good as the first, thanks in no small part to Education and Training Manager Shelley Petersen’s expert touch. The Epicutis Neck and Décolleté Booster was selected to target my main concerns: hydration, anti-ageing and blemishes, delivering concentrated botanical ingredients for added skin repair. The treatment itself is deeply relaxing. The vortex suction technology works through the pores in a way that feels almost meditative, and the immediate improvement in texture and clarity is super satisfying. Skin was clear, blemish-free and glowing in the days and weeks following, with visibly refined pores and a plump, youthful finish. An absolute staple.’— JD Distributor: www.hydrafacial.com.au

Ultraceuticals Ultra Lumi-Zyme Peel

What it is: A professional ʻliquid laser’ resurfacing treatment combining the A-Zyme Peel (retinol and bromelain enzyme) with LumiBright (AHAs, BHA and tranexamic acid), completed with the Ultra B2 Hydration Mask. Designed to deliver visible renewal and brightening with minimal downtime.

Indications: Uneven tone, dullness, pigmentation, surface congestion, early signs of ageing.

Typical protocol: Four treatments every two to four weeks.

Verdict: ʻPerformed by Clinical Educator Tracey Beeby, who has worked alongside founder Dr Geoffrey Heber for 28 years, I knew I was in good hands, literally. The treatment was tingly in the best way, the kind that tells you something is happening. A day or two of redness and dryness, then the reveal: brighter, smoother, more refined skin with a luminosity that kept developing over the following days.’ — EB (Erin Berryman, PB Acting Editor)

Distributor: www.ultraceuticals.com.au

“CLIENTS SEE NOTICEABLE IMPROVEMENTS IN BRIGHTNESS, SMOOTHNESS AND OVERALL SKIN QUALITY, WHILE EXPERIENCING MINIMAL DOWNTIME, WHICH IS WHY PROFESSIONALS REFER TO IT AS THE ‘LIQUID LASER.”

Pro2Lift Geneo Facial

What it is: A multi-technology facial combining OxyGeneo simultaneous exfoliation and oxygenation, TriPollar radiofrequency, electrical skin activation, ultrasound and lymphatic massage. Powered by personalised OxyPods — with nine customisations available — the treatment triggers the Bohr Effect, prompting the body to send a surge of oxygen to the skin’s surface for optimised cellular activity and ingredient absorption.

Indications: Dullness, loss of firmness, dehydration, uneven tone, congestion. Suitable for all skin types.

Typical protocol: Standalone for instant skin revitalisation or a course of four to six treatments one to two weeks apart.

Verdict: ʻMy treatment was customised with the Protect OxyPod formulated with turmeric, goji berries, mangosteen and a roster of nourishing oils to target my dry combination skin and give it back some vitality. Skin was immediately glowing, and unusually for me not too flushed. I walked out confidently fresh-faced. Instant gratification, no recovery required.’— EB

Distributor: www.probeautysolutions.com.au

“I FEEL LIKE EVERYTHING SITS MORE SEAMLESSLY ON THE COMPLEXION AFTER THIS TREATMENT.”

Candela VBeam Pro

What it is: The latest iteration of Candela’s gold-standard pulsed dye laser, combining a 595nm wavelength with 1064nm Nd:YAG. The 595nm targets haemoglobin in blood vessels, heating and collapsing them to reduce redness, telangiectasia and flushing. Delivers 20 per cent improved clearance, 50 per cent faster treatment times and 20 per cent less reported pain than its predecessor. Sessions run 10 to 15 minutes.

Indications: Rosacea, vascular lesions, telangiectasia, pigmentation, acne, photoageing. All skin types.

Typical protocol: Three to four treatments spaced four to six weeks apart. Once redness is stabilised, maintenance treatments every six to 12 months.

Verdict: ʻNo numbing cream prior, so this one sat on the more uncomfortable end of treatments trialled — not painful, more like a repeated sharp rubber-band snap sensation. I have rosacea, which made me an ideal candidate. Redness and welting were quite pronounced in the days following, although Marguerite Burke, Candela’s Senior Clinical Lead Nurse ANZ, warned me to expect this, and it’s a sign the laser hit its target. Whether what followed is placebo or early clinical result I can’t say with certainty — three to five sessions are typically needed before drawing conclusions. What I can say is that my flushing episodes haven’t felt as severe. I’ll take it!’— EB

Distributor: www.candelamedical.com

During treatment

Tetra PRO by DEKA

What it is: A CO₂ laser resurfacing treatment that harnesses CoolPeel technology to deliver precisely controlled energy, duration and peak power for exceptional results with minimal downtime. It removes damaged surface cells and triggers collagen and elastin production in the dermis. Approximately 10 minutes per session with numbing cream applied beforehand. Minimal downtime relative to traditional CO₂ resurfacing.

Indications: Fine lines, enlarged pores, uneven texture, pigmentation, photoageing.

Typical protocol: Standalone treatment for skin resurfacing or a course of three treatments four to six weeks apart to progressively improve skin texture, fine lines and sun damage.

Verdict: ʻDay one was mild sunburn, day two rough and sandpapery, then day three, I turned a corner and it was worth the brief panic. My skin just looked different… more refined? More even? More glowy? I couldn’t quite put my finger on it but whatever it was, I was obsessed. In the days following it felt silky smooth too. I had to keep stopping myself from touching my face. Collagen remodelling does its best work in the two to four weeks after treatment, so the full result is still revealing itself.’— EB Distributor: www.hightechmedical.com.au

What it is: A radiofrequency body treatment operating at 448 kHz, INDIBA’s Proionic technology treats cellulite as a connective tissue dysfunction rather than a cosmetic concern, working on tissue quality and functionality from within. It promotes vasodilation, enhances blood and lymphatic flow, stimulates collagen and elastin production, and modulates the fibrous septae responsible for cellulite’s appearance. Over time, this helps reduce chronic lowgrade inflammation and fluid retention. Two handpieces — capacitive and resistive — are combined within a single session and adapted dynamically to tissue response.

Indications: All grades of cellulite, including edematous (characterised by fluid retention and puffiness) and fibrotic (the most stubborn, characterised by hardened, nodular tissue). Also indicated for skin laxity and fluid retention. Typical protocol: Recommended course of six to 10 sessions, weekly or fortnightly initially, with maintenance every four to six weeks.

Verdict: ʻPrescribed by Future Clinic’s Artistic Director Claudia Fabiani and performed by Lisa Wang — the clinic’s self-titled ʻIndiba Queen’ — I’m now five sessions in and you can call me converted. Lisa has noted a tangible change with each session, observing that the deeper cellulite pockets on the back of my thighs feel more separated. At a technical level, that means the fat lobules and fibrous bands are becoming less rigid, which is all very promising! Added bonus: it’s incredibly relaxing; think hot stone massage with clinical intent.’— EB

Distributor: www.indibasia.com – trialled at Future Clinic, Sydney

“MORE REFINED? MORE EVEN? MORE GLOWY? I COULDN’T QUITE PUT MY FINGER ON IT BUT WHATEVER IT WAS, I WAS OBSESSED.”

INDIBA

WHY LAYER?

Treatment stacking — combining complementary modalities for outcomes neither achieves alone — is gaining real traction in clinical practice. INDIBA and Onda Pro are a compelling case study: Onda does the structural work, directly targeting fat cells and fibrous septae. INDIBA works on the cellular environment around it, boosting microcirculation, lymphatic drainage and fibroblast activity to help the body process, recover and consolidate results. An effective protocol could pair Onda Pro every three to four weeks with INDIBA weekly or fortnightly in between. Different mechanisms. Shared goal.

Similarly, Future Clinic pairs INDIBA with Ultraformer MPT. Where Ultraformer restructures deep tissue layers and SMAS for lifting and remodelling, INDIBA restores and optimises the biological environment around it.

AS

CLAUDIA PUTS

IT: ‘EXCELLENCE IN CELLULITE TREATMENT DOESN’T COME FROM CHOOSING A SINGLE DEVICE — IT COMES FROM COMBINING THEM STRATEGICALLY.’

Onda PRO by DEKA

A microwave-based body contouring device that selectively targets adipose tissue rather than heating tissue broadly. Microwave energy has a strong affinity for lipids, allowing it to pass through superficial skin layers and concentrate within subcutaneous fat and fibrous septae. Multiple handpieces target different tissue depths. Fat cells experience thermal stress leading to apoptosis in some and increased permeability in others, releasing fatty acids for lymphatic clearance.

Cellulite, localised fat, skin laxity.

Typical protocol: Three to six sessions recommended, then an annual maintenance session.

High Tech Medical’s Michael Raghib gave a thorough explainer on what microwave energy is doing to fat cells at a structural level — genuinely fascinating, and despite years in beauty, the way he broke it down made so much sense as to why cellulite is such a stubborn beast. The treatment was 12 minutes per zone across four zones on the thighs, with heat building steadily to the highest level and peaking in the final few minutes. I found it totally manageable. Results aren’t instant, improving gradually over four weeks, and compounding with more treatments.’— EB www.hightechmedical.com.au

The Facelift Facial

Designed to deliver immediate radiance and hydration, the Geneo Pro2Lift Facial oxygenates, exfoliates, lifts, plumps, infuses and massages while supporting long-term skin rejuvenation — revealing visibly refreshed, firmer, glowing skin after just one session.

BY

DIRECTORS

Twenty years ago, we took a leap... not with a grand plan, but with belief. Belief in an opportunity, belief in each other, and belief that if we could help the people around us succeed, everything else would follow.

It started modestly: a handful of salons, a small range of products, and a commitment to showing up differently. From those early days packing orders and building relationships one partner at a time, we’ve grown into something we could never have fully imagined –a business built on genuine partnership, relentless innovation, and a team of extraordinary people who bring it all to life every single day.

Looking back, the thread connecting every chapter of the Professional Beauty Solutions’ (PBS) story is the same: a win-win mentality. We have never believed that success comes at someone else’s expense. When our partners thrive, we thrive. That philosophy has guided every decision we’ve made; who we work with, the brands we bring to market, the technology we stand behind, and the way we show up for our clients, our partners, and our team. And now, twenty years on, we are more energised than ever.

The launch of Pro Aesthetic Solutions (PAS) marks the next exciting evolution of our journey. The industry is changing. Client expectations are rising, technology is advancing, and the line between beauty and clinical aesthetics continues to shift. PAS was born from that evolution; a dedicated home for the medical aesthetic devices that are genuinely transforming businesses and delivering results that hands and products alone simply cannot achieve.

PBS isn’t going anywhere. The foundation we’ve built, the relationships, the infrastructure, the values, remain as strong as ever. Pro Aesthetic Solutions (PAS) simply gives a deserving identity to a category that has grown into something remarkable, and positions all of our partners at the absolute forefront of aesthetics now and into the future.

This magazine is a celebration of that; of you, our partners, and of the industry we are so proud to be part of. We hope it inspires, informs, and reminds you that the best is still ahead.

Here’s to the next twenty years.

PUBLISHER

Pro Beauty & Aesthetic Solutions

CEO

Matt Williams

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Lisa Williams

DIRECTOR OF

AESTHETIC TECHNOLOGY

Mathew Green

BUSINESS DEVELO PMENT

PARTNERS

Denise Lyng

Julie Leverington

Amanda Van der Vlies

Anna Field

Steph Jones

Georgia Pearce

Traci Thompson

Kristen Schultz

Angie O’Connell

Julie Webster

SALES SUPPORT & SERVICE

Nicole Castle

Paula Sevares

Tatum Murphy

Kristen Atwell

CLINICAL EDUCATORS

Jessica Giraldi

Rachel Brew

Heather Ford

Zarita Heng

Emma Corrie

CUSTOMER CARE

Jacqui Catt

Kirra Castle

Michelle Gallagher

Casey Gutierrez

MARKETING

Jessica Ruisan

Jordan Sisson

Melissa Cawston

Ionne Ocampo

Alison Mattock

Laura Walsh

Ana Morais

Mim Punyaratabandhu

Margarette Chua

Gerald Bobilles

FINANCE & OPERATIONS

Renee Hulbert

Cyan Bindoff

Nicola Clouston

Cristiano de Brito

Pereira

Marie Loche

Susan Airey

Eliza Tribe

WAREHOUSE

Patty Apoleski

Sharon Stanley Jones

Fiona Auglys

Yang Yue

From Grit to Growth: 20 Years of PBS

Co-Founders Matt & Lisa Williams on the belief and “business muscle” it took to earn their seat at the table in the ever evolving beauty industry, and how they continue to shape the future of aesthetics 20 years later.

Surviving two decades in business is a milestone to say the least. In the fast-paced professional beauty industry, however, it is so much more than that... It takes dedication to innovation, tenacity and the relentless pursuit of how to do things better – anything less than is not an option. This is the DNA driving Co-Founders Matt and Lisa Williams, who celebrate 20 years of Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS) this year and the launch of their new brand extension, Pro Aesthetic Solutions (PAS) – allowing their top-tier technology its own identity in the results-driven future of aesthetics.

Spend a day in their Sydney-based HQ and you will feel their team presence, but in conversation, it becomes abundantly clear who has built PBS from the ground up, not only into a business that is surviving, but thriving, experiencing year-on-year growth since inception. Their tenacity, thirst for innovation and ability to work as a team (in business, and in life) is matched by their win-win mentality for those around them. Anchored by a business model where their partners’ success is inseparable from their own, it’s clear why PBS, and now PAS, will continue to lead the future of the evolving aesthetics industry.

Matt and Lisa, congratulations on 20 years of Professional Beauty Solutions. Looking back, what inspired you to start PBS, and what do you remember most vividly about the early days?

As much as we celebrate our success today, it was not without struggle, especially at the start. There was so much hardship in building multiple businesses, while balancing a newborn and a toddler. Before PBS, we had been in franchising for almost a decade, with a chain of four café franchises and a gym. However, as entrepreneurs we look for opportunities, and Matt’s parents were the distributors of Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics; selling to a few dozen salons, packing orders from their home, and at risk of losing it. We couldn’t help but see the potential of where we could take the brand if we went all in (with the byproduct of helping Matt’s parents). This belief was the driving force behind the next stage in our entrepreneurial journey, which has now lasted 20 years.

Two decades is an incredible milestone in an industry that changes so fast. Even more so, when your business partner is also your life partner. What do you think has been the key to PBS’ longevity and your success together?

Most small-to-medium-sized businesses don't make it past five years, so reaching 20 years with consecutive year-on-year growth is something we are very proud of. A big part of that is planning for the worst-case scenarios, and problem solving to avoid them – stemming from our belief that you must be ‘appropriately paranoid’ to survive. But we’ve never just been satisfied with surviving… Our question is always: How do we do it better? How do we add value? Along with an obsession with reading, and a healthy appetite for risk, we don’t accept mediocrity in each other or our business. We wouldn’t be the people we are without each other. This is how we've lasted over 20 years in marriage too... It has been said that the key to a successful marriage is to feel like you're the luckier of the two partners, and we both feel that. We are equal and we lean on each other’s strengths. Growth and contribution are core values for us. The business and the marriage have the same foundation: genuine respect, shared standards, and never being satisfied with good enough.

Most importantly, we’ve been very fortunate in surrounding ourselves with incredible, smart, talented people and that’s a huge reason we have been successful.

PBS has always been about more than products – it’s about successful partnerships and empowerment you bring to those partners (both brands and clients). How have your mission and values guided the way you do business?

Having the tenacity, energy and curiosity to just keep looking for solutions for partners and their clients, brand partners, and team members. Starting out in franchise, we learnt so much about what it meant to be a partner and whether we felt valued in that partnership. A lot of the time we just felt like an avenue to get their needs met, and we didn’t want that for our partners. Also, as a business coach (Matt), you see people who are incredibly talented at their trade, but don’t know how to manage the business side of things. If we can support them doing those things in their business, they'll be more successful. And the more successful they are, the more successful we will be too.

We see everything through the lens of a win-win mentality, ensuring that it is never at the expense of another. It’s at the core of our relationship and feeds through everything we do in this business. It’s deep in our belief system, because if you win and someone else loses, it will not be sustainable. It must be mutual, balanced, and equal.

What are you most proud of?

The year-on-year growth and the average tenure of the team. We went from being the new kid on the block to where we are today, and it’s been born out of that relentless pursuit of how to do things better... our constant drive for improvement, growth in people and growth in team. It’s a gladiator sport – not everyone survives small business, but success is in the agency of others, and there isn’t a day that we don’t feel deeply grateful for the amazing team we get to work alongside. One of the biggest challenges in business is managing people and relationships to inspire a cohesive, aligned team, all pulling in one direction, yet so rewarding, and that is thanks to the people we have as part of our team.

From a personal perspective, how have you evolved as leaders?

We’ve built business muscle, so we don’t get bogged down in failure or the feelings that come along with it. We are calmer and our resilience has grown hugely. We don’t have that feeling of not belonging in a room now. We deserve the proverbial seat at the table. Matt’s sense of humour is what also has helped us incredibly. That was what I (Lisa) fell in love with, as well. A thread through everything that we've done is Matt cracking jokes and making me laugh in moments where I might want to cry. Business is serious and the stakes and intensity can be very high, which is why balancing it with laughter and levity is so critical.

When it comes to your technology portfolio, how do you choose who to partner with? What is the selection process like for you?

YOU MUST BE ‘ APPROPRIATELY PARANOID ’ TO SURVIVE. BUT WE’VE NEVER JUST BEEN SATISFIED WITH SURVIVING...

We won't ever select a device that is a commodity in its category. We are always looking for a brand that has a remarkable point of difference that separates it from competitors. Innovation is a must – in the technology, but also the minds behind those brands. Not all technology is created equally, and we are always looking for something premium, new, unique and results-driven.

For clients looking to invest in technology, where do you recommend they start? For ROI and results, microneedling and LED are your easiest entry points. Start with a

The launch of Professional Aesthetic Solutions (PAS) marks an exciting new chapter in your journey. Can you share the inspiration behind PAS? PAS was inspired by the evolution of our industry. Thanks to rising client expectations driving the transition from beauty and grooming-focused treatments to results-driven, the industry now demands clinical technology to achieve what hands and products alone can’t. That evolution of technology, of us personally and professionally, along with the desire for innovation in all that we do, has been the driving force behind launching PAS. PBS is going nowhere, and the business infrastructure, internal resources (operations, marketing, warehouse, etc.) will be utilised by both, however, after so much success in the technology space, PAS now gives a deserving identity to the medical aesthetic devices that are transforming businesses daily.

1NEED Pro skin needling device and a Dermalux Flex MD. Ask yourself the question of what competitive advantage you want your salon, spa or clinic to have. What do you want to be known for? What do you want to be an expert in? And look for companies that are doing the innovating, with clinical papers, case studies and medical directors; not copying other companies’ innovation. That goes for the distributor too. That’s what we are doing... that’s how we choose brands – are these guys the best in their category? Who is behind those brands? Because holistically, innovative partners and brands are key.

After 20 years in business, many founders might take a step back – but you’re taking things further, building, and innovating… What drives you both to keep moving, growing, and leading the industry forward?

We live by a healthy dose of if you’re not growing, you’re dying. Innovation and growth is necessary for survival, or others will take over. That's what keeps us motivated and moving forward. Plus, we take our mission of enriching lives very seriously. We are dedicated to our team – making sure the business is healthy so they can come to work every day. And curating confidence for clients and partners, which is so fulfilling for us.

When you think about the next 20 years, what’s your ideal for PBS, PAS, and the industry as a whole?

We have a compulsion to keep competing. This business lives in us, so we will keep delivering on our promise to our partners, our team, and our brands, driving clinical confidence through tangible partnerships and aesthetic excellence now and in the future. ■

To learn more about partnering with PBS and PAS, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

Why Geneo’s Pro2Lift is Redefining the Modern Facial

The

oxygenation and lift that’s transforming skin; and clinics.

In a market where clients expect more than a superficial glow, Geneo’s Pro2Lift Facial is setting a new benchmark; combining oxygenation from within, smoothing of skin texture, skin tightening, lift, and long-term skin health. For clinics looking to elevate their offering, this is where traditional facials evolve into truly functional skin treatments, the future of modern aesthetics.

THE SHIFT FROM PAMPERING TO PERFORMANCE

For clinics, this shift presents both a challenge and an opportunity: how to deliver treatments that are results-driven, commercially viable, and suitable for a broad client base.

Geneo’s Pro2Lift Facial answers this demand by bridging the gap between traditional facials and advanced aesthetic procedures –offering a multi-technology solution that works on the skin from the inside out, with visible improvements achieved from the very first session.

PERSONALISED TREATMENT WITH TARGETED OXYPODS

Every Geneo Pro2Lift Facial is fully customisable through a range of targeted OxyPods, each one formulated with concentrated active ingredients to address specific skin concerns. Whether the goal is balancing oily skin, hydrating and brightening, combating ageing, protecting against environmental stressors, or illuminating dull skin, there is an OxyPod for every client, season, and skin type.

The ultrasound and lymphatic massage steps then drive these ingredients deeper into the skin than any standard facial could achieve, amplifying results significantly. Full treatment customisation, every time.

Today’s most successful treatments don’t just improve how skin looks; they improve how skin functions .

5 TECHNOLOGIES, 5 REVENUE STREAMS

OXYGENATION FROM WITHIN: THE BOHR EFFECT

Unlike treatments that apply oxygen topically, Geneo's Pro2Lift creates CO2 bubbles on the skin's surface, triggering the body's own Bohr Effect, causing oxygen-rich blood to rush to the surface from within. Combined with simultaneous physical exfoliation, this is what defines Geneo's signature OxyGeneo process.

THIRD-GENERATION TRIPOLLAR RF:

LIFT AND COLLAGEN SYNTHESIS

Delivered deep into the dermis, TriPollar Radio Frequency (RF) immediately contracts collagen fibres for a visible plumping and lifting effect, while stimulating fibroblasts to produce new collagen and elastin over time. This is technology that doesn't just make skin look better, it improves how skin functions.

ELECTRICAL SKIN ACTIVATION (ESA):

REAWAKEN AND REDEFINE

By delivering targeted electrical stimulation, ESA reactivates dormant fibroblasts and promotes the skin’s natural healing processes – redefining, toning, and firming the face. When combined with RF, it is the first technology of its kind to measurably enhance skin elasticity for noticeable, long-lasting results.

ULTRASOUND: DRIVING ACTIVES DEEPER

The ultrasound handpiece temporarily increases skin permeability, driving active ingredients deeper than topical application alone can achieve; significantly amplifying treatment efficacy.

LYMPHATIC MASSAGE:

DETOX AND RADIANCE

The massage tip facilitates lymphatic drainage, moving toxins away from the treatment area to reduce puffiness, boost circulation, and deliver that coveted glass-skin glow.

THE HYDRODERMABRASION COMPARISON: SURFACE VS. STRUCTURE

Hydrodermabrasion devices have built strong brand recognition by delivering exfoliation and hydration in a single treatment. But it is important to understand what these devices are – and are not – doing.

They treat the surface. Hydrodermabrasion exfoliates dead skin cells and infuses hydrating serums into the upper skin layers. For a clean, fresh complexion, it delivers. What it does not deliver is structural change, and the costs of running these machines can be difficult to control, with consumables that vary unpredictably and overheads that can blow out quickly for business owners.

Geneo’s Pro2Lift Facial is different on both counts. Clinically, it goes far beyond the surface:

✔ Radio Frequency: for skin tightening, collagen stimulation, elastin synthesis and common signs of ageing.

✔ The Bohr Effect: for stimulation of oxygen-rich blood to the skin from within.

✔ Electrical Skin Activation: for reactivation of dormant skin cells, mimicking the skin’s bioelectricity, while enhancing skin elasticity.

And from a business perspective, consumable costs with Geneo’s Pro2Lift are fully controlled. Each treatment uses a single OxyPod; a fixed, predictable cost per client that protects your margins and makes forecasting simple. No surprises. Geneo’s Pro2Lift Facial addresses all of this, and more.

“I had a very successful opening night to introduce the Geneo Pro2Lift Facial to my clients. With over $12,000 in packages sold that night, within the first 4 weeks I had the machine paid off.”

Skin Rejuvenation by Tracey

BUILT FOR BUSINESS: RESULTS THAT DRIVE REVENUE

Beyond clinical performance, Geneo's Pro2Lift Facial offers compelling commercial advantages.

Suitable for everyone. It carries extremely low risk and zero downtime. Suitable for virtually all skin types and sensitivities, expanding your billable client base significantly.

Easy to train, fast to deploy. Any junior therapist can deliver confident, effective treatments after just a couple of hours of training. No specialist knowledge. No skilled hands required. An outstanding floor treatment that generates revenue without relying on senior practitioners.

Clients that rebook. Immediate visible results drive the first rebook. Progressive long-term collagen and elastin improvement drives course sales and retention.

Predictable costs, protected margins. With fully controlled consumables, business owners always know their cost per treatment: no hidden surprises, no overhead blowout.

A STRATEGIC PAIRING FOR ADVANCED CLINICS

Geneo’s Pro2Lift Facial is designed to complement your most advanced treatments, not compete with them. For clients receiving microneedling, ablative or non-ablative laser, LED therapy, or injectables, adding Geneo into their plan can significantly elevate results and accelerate skin health. The internal oxygenation and cellular stimulation creates an optimal environment for recovery and regeneration, making it a seamless, powerful addition to any treatment program.

THE FUTURE OF THE FACIAL IS FUNCTIONAL

Clients are no longer satisfied with temporary hydration. They are investing in long-term skin health; and they expect technology that delivers. Geneo’s Pro2Lift Facial combines oxygenation from within, personalised OxyPods, exfoliation, Radio Frequency, ESA, ultrasound, and lymphatic drainage into a single, non-invasive treatment that is accessible, results-driven, and genuinely transformative. For clinics looking to differentiate and meet the demands of today’s informed client, it’s not just about how skin looks, it’s about how it performs.

For more information or to become a Geneo Pro2Lift stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/pollogen-geneo

Pro2Lift

The Cold Fibre Revolution Has Arrived

Meet AuraLux; the Acclaro laser that’s rewriting the rules of resurfacing.

Imagine performing laser treatments on any skin type in 15 minutes comfortably, with minimal downtime, and CO2-like results with less risk?

Thanks to AuraLux, it’s now a reality...

THE DISRUPTOR

Introducing an Australian-first, the AuraLux Laser is redefining resurfacing and rejuvenation with cold fibre technology. Built on the proven success of the UltraClear ® , Acclaro’s flagship cold fibre laser, previously accessible to doctors only and so exclusive that fewer than 30 exist in the country, AuraLux now makes advanced laser treatments accessible to all aesthetic practices. Boasting comparable outcomes with lower thermal effects, AuraLux delivers precise, low-thermal ablation with reduced downtime and enhanced patient comfort, making this a true game changer in the aesthetic space.

COLD FIBRE VS. EVERYTHING BEFORE IT

For decades, CO2 Lasers have been the gold standard for ablative resurfacing, however due to their extreme heat and ablative nature, it also has extreme effects on the skin (high pain and high risk of infection) along with extreme downtime before seeing results. Traditional lasers also come with high risk for darker skins, limiting the patients you can treat and can also take weeks for skin to heal. AuraLux is here to change that. How? By doing it different to everyone else.

THE AURALUX DIFFERENCE

Putting patient experience first without compromising on results is what makes AuraLux a disruptor in this industry. The speed at which you can do a full face – either customised or the preset, signature facial, the 3DMIRACL ® allows you to complete treatments in less than 15 minutes. You can now treat all skin types (Fitzpatricks I-VI) with

AuraLux, and address everything from pigmentation, wrinkles, total rejuvenation, acne, scarring and so much more. The cold fibre laser and interchanging heat and ablation, at such a fast speed, with unique coverage and pulse rates, removes the time and effort taken for topical anaesthetic, and enables this laser to have minimal pain and minimal downtime. Laser resurfacing is now a lunchtime treatment. For Australian clinics serving a diverse patient base, this isn’t incremental, it’s a new market.

NOT A MINOR ADVANTAGE. A STRUCTURAL MARKET EXPANSION.

AuraLux operates at 2910nm; a mid-infrared wavelength that allows for efficient tissue vaporisation at peak water absorption with minimal collateral heat spread; redefining high-precision laser resurfacing. Customisable, the exclusive CoolPulse Technology blends cold ablation with adjustable coagulation in the same microchannel for maximum results with minimal pain and downtime. Specifically, 95% of AuraLux’s energy is absorbed by water chromophores (the ablation), leaving only 5% for heating in the skin (the coagulation), which is why it’s categorised as cold fibre. In comparison, C02 is 40% ablation, 60% coagulation so less heat, less trauma to the skin, less risk and a fraction of the downtime of traditional resurfacing or rejuvenation laser treatments.

THE LUNCHBREAK LASER TREATMENT EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT

3DMIRACL® offers precise, ablative resurfacing for enhanced skin rejuvenation, wrinkle reduction, and collagen remodelling with maximum results and minimal downtime.

Treatment Time: 15 minutes

Client Experience: Minimal discomfort, no need for topical anaesthetic

Downtime: Minimal Social Downtime

Skin Types: All – Fitzpatrick I-VI

Patient/ Client: First timers to repeat laser clients

WHY AURALUX BELONGS ON YOUR MENU

✔ Industry disruptor: CO2 laser-like results with minimal social downtime.

✔ All skin types (Fitzpatrick I–VI): safely treat patients others turn away.

✔ 15-minute treatments: for faster ROI and time-poor clients.

✔ Patient experience: no anaesthetic required. More comfortable than RF needling or CO2. Perfect for first-time laser patients.

✔ Ease for operator: flexible arm makes performing countless treatments comfortable.

✔ Works with existing technologies: can pair with injectables, and other energy- based devices.

✔ Four treatment modes: 3DMIRACL®, REFRESH, RENEW, and GLIDE: from fine lines to acne scarring.

✔ Fully customisable: you can adjust energy, pulses, and even coagulation levels and ring modes (to increase impact of each microchannel).

✔ User-friendly interface and built-in guided mode: offers preset settings, making it easy to operate.

✔ CoolPulse Technology (5000 pulses per second) to enhance client tolerance thanks to thermal relaxation time: 500x faster than standard Erbium:YAG, plus more points of impact and more even distribution of energy.

✔ Highest ROI on your menu: over $40 profit per minute, with low monthly maintenance costs.

✔ Portable and compact: won’t dominate a small treatment room.

✔ 5-year warranty: peace of mind well beyond year one. ■

For more information or to become an AuraLux stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

BY

The World's First Anti-Ageing Cold Fibre Laser

Millions of people avoid lasers due to concerns about pain, downtime + increased risk of unwanted side effects, especially for darker skin types. Auralux overcomes these barriers with its groundbreaking Cold Fibre

The perfect laser to transform your aesthetic practice

1 MONTH AFTER 1 TREATMENT

Every Client You Lose is a Client Someone Else Keeps

The FormaTK Alpha gives independent clinics every reason for clients to stay.

Are your clients discovering discount hair removal chains? Once they do, loyalty is lost and the chain becomes their clinic. Sound familiar? It’s called client leakage, and for many independent salons and clinics, it’s the most underestimated threat to growth. The answer isn’t to lower your prices, it’s to raise your offer... How? Meet the FormaTK Alpha, who’s performance-built for permanent hair reduction, plus skin health, colour correction and more. All packaged up in one easy to use (and train) platform, you can now satisfy client scope and never lose their loyalty again.

WHAT IS THE ALPHA?

One Platform. Over 20 Treatments. Zero Compromises.

The FormaTK Alpha combines an 808nm Diode Laser with FormaTK’s proprietary 3D IPL technology in a single device. Unlike conventional IPL, the Alpha allows independent adjustment of energy, pulse duration, and contact cooling intensity, delivering more precise outcomes across a treatment menu that covers:

✔ Hair removal – all skin types including higher Fitzpatrick tones

✔ Pigmentation – sun damage, age spots, melasma, freckles

✔ Vascular – rosacea, broken capillaries, spider veins

✔ Skin health – collagen stimulation, texture, fine lines

✔ Acne - Grades I-III

LASER HAIR REMOVAL, PERFECTED

The Alpha’s 808nm Diode laser is now the gold standard for permanent hair reduction –clinically demonstrated to achieve an average of 90% reduction in hair density, the Alpha outperforms competing platforms (such as Alexandrite lasers) in both clearance rates, client comfort and speed. Its unique PowerMotion and FineMotion delivers consistent predictable results across skin types Fitz I-VI, including even those fine stubborn hairs most devices struggle with.

MEET MILO

The Melanin Metre That Reduces Treatment Risk

The most common cause of laser burns and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) isn’t device failure – it’s inaccurate Fitzpatrick assessment. When a therapist misjudges a client’s skin type, treatment parameters can be dangerously high for that skin. Darker skin types have a higher density of epidermal melanin that absorbs proportionally more laser energy; applied incorrectly, that excess energy causes thermal injury, burns, and PIH that can persist for months. MILO, FormaTK’s digital melanin measurement system, reduces that risk entirely. Before every treatment, MILO takes a real-time, objective skin reading and auto-suggests calibrated parameters – removing subjectivity from the equation regardless of practitioner experience level. Consistent and repeatable results. Every client. Every session.

DESIGNED TO DELIVER

Founded by Industry Veterans. Built on 85 Years of R&D.

FormaTK was founded by three engineers whose fingerprints are on the devices that shaped this entire industry. Ilan Toledano led system development at Syneron Candela. Isaac Shraga PhD was among the core founding engineers of both Lumenis and Syneron, helping build the original laser platforms those brands were built on. Doron Rosenwaser co-founded Syneron, bringing over 30 years of software and control-systems expertise for energy-based devices. Together they carry 85+ years of combined R&D experience and they left to build something better. Every FormaTK platform is engineered in-house, held to FDA 510(k), medical CE, and Health Canada standards, and trusted by practitioners across 45+ countries.

The clinic that can say yes to more clients will always outgrow the one that can't.

SIGNATURE TREATMENT

Tight & Bright – Your 30-Minute Revenue Driver

FormaTK’s signature Tight & Bright is a 30-minute Double-Pass 3D IPL facial addressing pigmentation, vascular concerns, skin texture, and collagen stimulation simultaneously with no social downtime. Designed to be marketed easily,priced at a premium, and delivered in the same appointment as hair removal, the result is one session, multiple services and a client with no reason to go anywhere else. ■

For more information or to become a FormaTK Alpha stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

TIGHT & BRIGHT is the next generation of skin rejuvenation treatments, offering an all-in-one solution for skin ageing concerns.

⊲ Sun spots

⊲ Loss of elasticity

⊲ Fine lines

⊲ Rosacea

⊲ Uneven skin tone

⊲ Pigmented Lesions

⊲ Skin Rejuvenation

⊲ Vascular Lesions

Built Different

Why Dermalux’s medical-grade precision leaves every other LED device behind.

Your LED device is probably working. Clients aren’t complaining. The treatment room stays busy. But here is a question worth sitting with: are your LED clients coming back? Are they referring? Are they buying courses, or trying a few sessions and quietly moving on?

Clinics running entry-level or mid-market LED devices plateau. Results are inconsistent enough that clients don’t feel compelled to commit to a program. The device becomes a filler treatment rather than a flagship one. Meanwhile, the investment (the machine, the consumables, the room time, the staff training) keeps accumulating. The ROI looks fine on paper. In practice, it never quite reaches its potential.

That gap between potential and actual is almost always a device engineering problem. Not a sales problem. Not a treatment protocol problem. A device problem. Here is what the engineering actually means for your bottom line.

1 THE LED ITSELF: WHY SINGLE WAVELENGTH CERAMIC TECHNOLOGY CHANGES EVERYTHING

Many devices use Chip on Board (COB) LED technology: multiple semiconductor diodes housed within a single LED package, producing a broad output blending several wavelengths simultaneously. The appeal for manufacturers is obvious; it reduces cost. The consequences for clinical performance follow from basic physics. When multiple chips share a single package, heat generation rises sharply. As junction temperature increases, optical output falls and wavelength drift occurs. The peak emission shifts away from the clinically validated target. A COB device claiming to deliver 633nm red light may, under operating conditions, be emitting light scattered across a band as wide as ±50nm from that peak. That is not 633nm red light therapy. Much of the energy falls outside what the target chromophore can absorb. Clinical results suffer, even though the device continues to illuminate.

Dermalux uses bespoke, surface-mounted ceramic LEDs, each engineered to emit a single, discrete wavelength. Ceramic is not simply a material preference; it is a thermal engineering decision. Its superior heat dissipation properties allow each diode to operate within a tightly controlled temperature

range, producing an LED that does not drift; one that delivers 415nm, 633nm or 830nm accurately, session after session, across the device’s operational lifetime.

2

THERMAL MANAGEMENT: COOLING AS A CLINICAL NECESSITY

Wavelength accuracy depends on thermal stability during operation and this is where even many single-wavelength devices, despite advancing beyond COB technology, face a real limitation. Without active cooling, LED junction temperature rises progressively through a treatment session, causing wavelength drift and falling output. By the end of a 20-minute treatment, the dose delivered in the final minutes may be measurably different from the dose at the start.

Dermalux devices are engineered with integrated, patent-pending forced-air cooling systems that regulate junction temperature throughout every session. The benefits are threefold: wavelength stability across the session and the device’s lifespan; patient comfort, particularly in post-procedure applications where device heat would actively counteract the therapeutic goal of reducing inflammation; and device longevity. Dermalux LEDs are rated to a minimum of 80,000 operating hours.

Heat is the enemy of precision.

3 BINNING: THE MANUFACTURING

PROCESS THAT MOST BRANDS DON’T TALK ABOUT

Even among single-wavelength LED devices, manufacturing precision varies enormously. LED production involves ‘binning’ – sorting diodes by their actual emission characteristics. Dermalux has refined this process over many years to achieve a peak emission tolerance of ±2nm, meaning every LED in every panel is verified to emit within 2 nanometres of its target. Many competitor devices carry tolerances as wide as ±50nm. In photobiomodulation, that gap is not a minor specification detail. The absorption curves of cellular chromophores are steep and precise. A ±50nm tolerance means a significant portion of emitted energy may fall entirely outside the absorption peak of the target molecule – wasting power and reducing, or eliminating, the therapeutic response. The Dermalux binning standard is the reason its devices consistently outperform competitors in independent optical testing: not because they emit more raw light, but because more of what they emit is clinically useful.

4

THREE WAVELENGTHS

SIMULTANEOUSLY: A CLINICAL CAPABILITY, NOT A MARKETING POINT

Delivering multiple wavelengths sequentially is not the same as delivering them simultaneously. When red, (633nm), blue (415nm) and near-infrared (830nm) operate concurrently, photobiomodulation pathways interact and amplify one another – producing clinical outcomes that sequential delivery cannot replicate, in half the treatment time. Take acne: blue light destroys the C. acnes bacteria; red enhances cellular repair at the dermal level; near-infrared modulates the inflammatory cascade at depth. Treating all three simultaneously addresses the condition across every biological layer at once, in a single session.

Dermalux is the only LED device in the world capable of delivering all three clinically proven wavelengths simultaneously, with independent control over the power and dose of each. This is a patented capability. No other device replicates it.

“I have worked with many LED phototherapy devices and I believe that the Dermalux Tri-Wave system is superior due to the technology and unique treatment delivery. In my experience, delivering wavelengths simultaneously targets multiple chromophores and enables us to maximise clinical results and reduce treatment times.”

Dr. Ian Strawford, Aesthetic Doctor and Clinic Founder, UK

THE REAL ROI CALCULATION

The LED market will continue to produce devices that are cheaper and more attractively specified on paper than clinical-grade medically certified systems. Some will deliver results in the short term. Many will not. Patients who experience disappointing outcomes rarely blame the device – they conclude that LED therapy does not work. They do not return and that reputation attaches to the clinic.

The question is rarely whether Dermalux is more expensive than the alternative. It is. The question is what that price difference actually delivers and over what timeframe. A device that consistently produces visible results generates program sales, not single sessions. It generates word-ofmouth referrals from clients who see real

5

MEDICAL CE UNDER EU MDR: WHY IT MATTERS

Not all CE marks are equal. A standard CE mark is a manufacturer’s self-declaration requiring no independent audit. A Medical CE mark under EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) requires independent assessment by a Notified Body – a government-authorised third party who reviews clinical data, manufacturing processes and quality management systems. The Notified Body number is printed on the device. If it is absent, the device does not hold Medical CE, regardless of what the brochure states.

Dermalux is the only LED phototherapy device in the world to hold Medical CE for four distinct indications: acne, wound healing, psoriasis and musculoskeletal pain. It also holds UKCA certification, FDA clearance, full ARTG listing, and ISO 13485 and ISO 9001 certification. When you purchase a Dermalux device, you are purchasing a documented, independently audited clinical outcome, not a specification sheet.

6

POWER AND DOSE: WHY MORE IS NOT ALWAYS BETTER

Irradiance (mW/cm²) is the figure most used to compare LED devices, and the most frequently misrepresented. Manufacturers measure at the centre of the array, under ideal conditions, at a fixed distance; not what reaches a patient’s skin across a full treatment area. More critically, high irradiance alone does not produce superior outcomes. The Biphasic Dose Response (Arndt-Schulz Law) is clear: beyond an optimal dose threshold, cellular response diminishes and excessive irradiance risks bio-inhibition, where the therapeutic effect is not merely reduced but reversed. The target is optimal dose at the correct wavelength, consistently, across the entire treatment area. Dermalux devices are calibrated for clinical use at a minimum 25mm working distance, with irradiance figures independently verified at that distance; a standard very few competitor devices can demonstrate under equivalent scrutiny. ■

change. It integrates naturally with laser, RF, microneedling and chemical peel protocols creating a post-procedure recovery pathway that adds revenue to every treatment on your menu, not just the LED sessions themselves. It gives your team a clinical story that is coherent, evidence-based and genuinely differentiating in a crowded market.

Clinics that position the Tri-Wave MD as a core treatment modality, not just a secondary treatment, consistently report strong LED program retention and meaningful add-on revenue. The device does not just pay for itself, it changes the shape of the business around it.

For more information or to become a Dermalux stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/dermalux

SCAN TO VIEW MORE BEFORE & AFTER PHOTOS

Are Feel Good Facials Leaving You Behind?

Fact: Devices drive growth. So, the question is, are you competing or complacent?

Integrating technology is no longer a trend; it’s a strategic move that builds credibility, retention, and revenue in an industry increasingly driven by results over relaxation. To survive, businesses must evolve beyond touch and skincare alone. Mathew Green, Director of Aesthetic Technology for Pro Aesthetic Solutions, explains why it’s critical to blend your skill with evidence-based technology to future proof your business.

THE SHIFT SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SKIN HEALTH

“For business owners, technology increases treatment value, diversifies revenue, and ensures relevance in a market that increasingly equates modern skin health with sophisticated, science-led solutions,” explains Green. However, it’s not about replacing a therapist’s expertise, it’s about enhancing it. Today’s results-driven clients now demand you look at skin health holistically – wellness, sustainability, and long-term results – over quick fixes of the past. “The most future fit model combines the therapist's touch with device-based performance,” says Green. “Blended protocols increase session value, support sustainability, and strengthen loyalty because clients experience both the artistry of touch and the precision of modern technology.”

TRANSFORMING YOUR TREATMENT MENU

Your client demographic is key. At the core of it is understanding your generational mix. “Baby Boomers are seeking regenerative, non-invasive treatments that support graceful ageing; Gen X values high-performance results with efficiency; Millennials invest in conscious, science-backed solutions; and Gen Z demands transparency, ethical formulations and technology-enabled personalisation.” Prioritise this and shift with the industry, from the occasional treatment category to trusted skin health expert, building client loyalty, retention and revenue.

ADAPTING IS ESSENTIAL

“Adapting requires leaning into modern consumer expectations by integrating quality technologies, sustainable practices and personalised pathways,” says Green. He advises to start small but strategic by choosing one versatile, low-downtime technology that supports wellness-led, results-focused care. “Select a device backed by strong data and meaningful supplier support that continues post-purchase.” Use it to enhance your core

treatments and build from there. Consider clinically-proven LED for widespread reoccurring revenue, or a multi-tech device like the Geneo X to integrate more than one revenue stream and higher treatment prices.

HOW TO AVOID BUYING THE WRONG DEVICE

Check beyond the Business Development Partner (BDP) and their brochure on price and tech specs. Think about the lifetime of that device in your salon, spa or clinic, asking questions about consumables, servicing, preventative maintenance, warranties… and find out what solutions the supplier has if there are problems with the device. “A device should be a long-term asset, not a short-term bargain,” warns Green.

“Low-cost technology often compromises safety, sustainability, and long-term reliability.” He suggests anchoring your decision to data, demographic insight, and long-term strategy to avoid making the mistake of buying the wrong device. “Look for clinically validated technology supported by strong, ongoing training, service infrastructure in your supplier, and ethical manufacturing standards.”

CHARGE MORE FOR TECHNOLOGY POWERED TREATMENTS

Technology transforms your scope from skincare and physical touch to beyond the surface, allowing you to increase your prices due to results, along with rising confidence and credibility. “Technology delivers the outcomes today’s clients seek while complementing the rising desire for prevention, regeneration, and low-downtime care,” adds Green. When planned, launch strategies and VIP packages can even offset the initial investment. Because the future belongs to businesses that don’t choose between touch or technology, they master both. ■

To learn more about partnering with PBS and PAS, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

MATHEW GREEN

Director of Aesthetic Technology, Pro Aesthetic Solutions

Mat Green brings over 20 years of executive experience in pharmaceuticals and aesthetic medical devices, with a proven track record of driving growth and building high-performing teams in competitive markets.

World Leaders in LED Phototherapy

NOT ALL LED LIGHT IS CREATED EQUAL

The ONLY LED to deliver all 3 wavelengths simultaneously.

Precise, proven wavelengths. Accurate to 2+/-nm.

Clinically proven & medically CE certified.

Certified by the world’s strictest medical bodies to treat more skin conditions than any other LED.

TREAT: PSORIASIS 13 treatments in 3 weeks

HYDROPEPTIDE HYDROGLASS

Zero downtime, immediate radiance

The HydroGlass Facial was built for the client wanting high-level results, with no social downtime. By integrating physical exfoliation, a 40% Shikimic Acid Peel (10% shikimic acid and 30% AHAs), a two-step oxygenation treatment, and a Moisture Infusion Mask into a single, sequenced protocol, this treatment works every layer of the skin simultaneously, rather than in isolation.

Session Guide: 60 mins, 6 sessions for optimal results

Downtime: No social downtime

Menu Placement: Positioned within the advanced medical facial category, ideal for clients seeking intensive skin revitalisation and corrective outcomes beyond a traditional facial.

AURALUX 3DMIRACL®

2910nm Cold Fibre Ablative Laser Technology

Hot Off the Treatment Table

Innovative treatments driving results that speak before your client does.

The 3DMIRACL ® is the most disruptive addition to the professional beauty industry in years. In just 15 minutes, it delivers comparable results that have historically required CO2 laser technology; the gold standard for skin resurfacing with a recovery profile that makes it a realistic option for a far broader client demographic. Boasting the ability to treat Fitzpatrick I–VI with minimal social downtime. The 3DMIRACL ® is the epitome of treatment innovation, with minimal discomfort and no need for topical anaesthetic.

Session Guide: 15 mins, 3–5 sessions for optimal results

Downtime: Minimal downtime (transient heat and light flaking for 5–7 days)

Menu Placement: A premium, all-in-one skin rejuvenation treatment positioned as a core menu offering for time-efficient, results-driven clients seeking advanced anti-ageing solutions.

IMAGE SKINCARE PREMIUM MD POWER C PEEL

Same-day wow factor, visible results, repeat clients

The Power C Peel delivers results consistently, through a three-layer protocol that stacks stabilised vitamin C, AHAs, fruit enzymes, and hydrating actives in a carefully sequenced application designed to maximise synergistic penetration. Each layer primes the skin for the next, amplifying the cumulative effect and producing a brightness and texture refinement that clients can both see and feel immediately after treatment.

Session Guide: 50 mins, 6 sessions for optimal results

Downtime: No social downtime

Menu Placement: A core menu staple positioned as a results-led, fully custom facial suitable for first-time clients and ongoing skin correction.

1NEED PRO 3-IN-1 MEDICAL MICRONEEDLING

CIT, Cellular-level delivery, advanced ageing

Also known as Collagen Induction Therapy (CIT), 1NEED Pro’s medical-grade needles kickstart the skin’s natural healing response for deep skin rejuvenation, advanced ageing, pigmentation, acne scarring and deep scarring. To supercharge results, 1NEED Pro is most effective when paired with skin boosters such as Fusion Mesotherapy, delivering fibroblast growth factors, exosomes, biomimetic peptides, and amino acids deep into the skin to target serious textural damage, accelerated ageing, and hair growth stimulation in a way that topical application simply cannot replicate.

Session Guide: 30–45 minutes, 6+ sessions for optimal results

Downtime: Minimal downtime (depth dependant)

Menu Placement: An advanced medical microneedling treatment positioned for progressive skin correction, delivering deep regenerative benefits beyond topical grade modalities.

ALPHA TIGHT & BRIGHT

All-in-one solution for all skin ageing concerns

Tight & Bright represents a genuine turning point in how pigmentation and the visible signs of ageing are treated in a clinical environment. This cutting-edge technology combines FormaTK’s exclusive and advanced 3D IPL to target pigmentation, redness, acne and uneven texture while simultaneously stimulating collagen production for measurably firmer, more youthful skin. The standout in its category though, is the adaptive contact-cooling technology, with clients experiencing minimal discomfort, removing one of the most common barriers to booking traditional IPL. Alpha Tight & Bright isn’t just a treatment; it’s a business system built into a single device.

Session Guide: 30 mins, 3–6 sessions for optimal results

Downtime: No social downtime (temporary erythema and possible pigment darkening)

Menu Placement: A signature, all-in-one corrective and preventative treatment positioned for clients seeking visible brightening, firming, and skin refinement through advanced light-based technology.

GENEO PRO2LIFT FACIAL

Fully customisable, five technologies, standalone or combined

The Geneo Pro2Lift is the treatment you reach for when no single concern defines the client in front of you – which is most of the time. Combining five technologies to oxygenate, exfoliate, lift, plump, infuse, and massage in a single adaptable protocol, it is the most versatile platform, capable of functioning as a standalone signature facial or as the intelligent foundation of a multi-stage treatment plan. Expect to hydrate, lift, firm, tone and tighten with next-level glow after just one session.

The business model is compelling: OxyGeneo (to exfoliate and oxygenate from within), TriPollar Radio Frequency (to tighten and lift), targeted OxyPods (to customise according to skin concern) plus Ultrasound (to infuse), ESA (to awaken sleeping skin cells) and Lymphatic Massage (to increase circulation and reduce red, puffy skin). This translates to a single device delivering menu depth that would otherwise require multiple machines. That versatility directly affects your bottom line, increases per-client revenue through add-on customisation, and positions your clinic as adaptive and clinically rigorous.

Session Guide: 60 mins, 6 sessions for optimal results

Downtime: No social downtime

Menu Placement: A signature, multi-technology facial positioned as a foundation treatment for bespoke skin rejuvenation, delivering lift, hydration, and visible refinement in a single adaptable protocol.

DIVINE PRO PYRAMID FACELIFT

Non-Surgical Facelift, volumise, tighten, rejuvenate, remodel

A revolutionary non-surgical treatment that volumises, tightens, rejuvenates and remodels. The Divine Pro Pyramid Facial integrates Pollogen’s cutting-edge technologies; TriPollar RF and microneedling for collagen remodelling, Dynamic Muscle Activation for natural lift, and TriFractional RF resurfacing for serious textural results and radiance.

This is a category-defining addition: not just an anti-ageing treatment, but an advanced rejuvenation platform that addresses wrinkles, acne scarring, sagging skin, enlarged pores, and pigmentation in one treatment. It retains clients who might otherwise migrate to injectable or surgical options, and creates a premium appointment in your menu that can be built into a course.

Session Guide: 60 mins, 3 sessions for optimal results

Downtime: Minimal downtime (transient heat and light flaking for 5–7 days)

Menu Placement: Positioned within the clinic’s advanced non - surgical rejuvenation treatments, ideal for clients seeking comprehensive facial lifting, tightening, volumisation, and textural remodelling without injectables or surgery.

DERMALUX LED PHOTO FACIAL

Medical-grade LED Light Therapy, pre/post procedure, reduce inflammation

Clinically proven to energise, repair and rejuvenate, the deluxe Dermalux MD Photo Facial delivers three clinically-proven wavelengths each targeting a different layer of skin function; alongside a deep cleanse and bespoke masque. It accelerates cell renewal, resolves problematic skin conditions, and leaves skin with the kind of vibrant, healthy luminosity that no amount of product can replicate.

Session Guide: 10–30 mins, 8+ sessions for optimal results

Downtime: No social downtime

Menu Placement: Positioned as a medical-grade light therapy facial that functions equally as a standalone treatment or as a strategic add-on to optimise and accelerate outcomes of advanced clinical procedures. ■

Profit with Purpose

Demystifying your numbers to unlock smarter, more sustainable growth.

In an industry built on skin transformation and client experience, there’s one area that salon owners are often scared of – their numbers. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Understanding your books is critical to success, and simplifying them can become your most powerful tool to drive business decisions. “Data should drive your pricing decisions, not fear or competitor comparison,” says Professional Beauty Solutions’ Co-Founder, Matt Williams. But how do you begin to decode the data? Williams (who doubles as a business coach, and Finance Educator), is here to help.

START SIMPLE: THE NUMBERS THAT MATTER

For owners feeling overwhelmed, Williams recommends starting small. Focus on key metrics such as revenue per treatment room, retail-toservice ratio, and treatment profitability. “A simple but game-changing tip? Add a percentage column to your P&L. Seeing expenses as a proportion of revenue, rather than just dollar amounts, demystifies the numbers and builds confidence (and bigger picture) immediately.”

BUDGET FOR INNOVATION

Investing in technology and advanced treatments drives growth, but splurging creates a barrier to that growth. Treat innovation as a planned line item – allocate a fixed percentage of revenue for upgrades, and plan purchases around ROI. “When innovation is budgeted, it becomes scalable, not stressful,” Williams adds.

PRICING PITFALLS THAT REDUCE PROFIT

Fear of financials is common. Owners often avoid looking at reports, hesitant about what they might discover. This mindset then shows up in pricing and promotions, with discounts eroding profit rather than building it. “Data changes the game,” says Williams. “Reviewing margins before promotions, tracking client lifetime value, and understanding cost per treatment helps owners make smarter, more profitable decisions.”

REAP THE BENEFITS OF REINVESTMENT

Williams lists three areas for reinvestment: team development, client experience, and clinical education. Skilled therapists, premium experiences, and advanced treatments increase loyalty, revenue, and differentiation. In addition, savvy salon owners use their POS system to their advantage. It’s an investment that often comes with easy-to-access partners that can help guide you to pull reports and explain them to you. You don’t have to do it alone.

“WHEN INNOVATION IS BUDGETED, IT BECOMES SCALABLE , NOT STRESSFUL.”

PARTNER BEYOND PRODUCTS

The results speak for themselves. Clinics that shift from reactive to data-led decision making typically see treatment profitability improve within the first 90 days – not because they changed their services, but because they stopped discounting out of fear and started pricing with confidence.

“We've worked with clinic owners who were running busy books but barely breaking even,” says Williams. “Once they could see their numbers clearly, the changes they needed to make became obvious. Partnering with a brand that provides ongoing business support, not just equipment, means you're never navigating that journey alone.”

Partner with a brand or business that provides support long after sale and continues throughout your salon journey. Ongoing access to a Business Development Partner (BDP) allows you to have a business partner when you need one, to help you with your books, guide you on your prices and educate you on business behind the scenes, along with their wider team to provide training, education, social media, marketing assets, and so much more. “Support should scale with you,” says Williams. Finally, “understanding your numbers removes fear,” he adds. “And when fear disappears, growth becomes intentional, not accidental. Because today’s most successful clinics aren’t just treatment experts; they’re financially fluent.” ■

“ DATA SHOULD DRIVE YOUR PRICING DECISION , NOT FEAR OR COMPETITOR COMPARISON.”

To learn more about partnering with PBS and PAS, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

Is Your Microneedling Device Holding Your Business Back?

The

uncomfortable truth about the industry’s most popular pens, and what smart clinics are switching to.

You invested in microneedling to grow your business. But if you’re working with a device that only does one thing, makes clients wince, or fails you the moment someone forgot to charge it – you’re not just limiting your results. You’re limiting your revenue. Let’s talk honestly about what’s happening in treatment rooms across Australia.

Many of the devices dominating clinic shelves right now were built around a single idea: one tip, one treatment, one type of client. And while that might have felt sufficient a few years ago, today’s clients are more informed, more discerning, and expecting more personalised results than ever before. The reality? A lot of therapists are quietly frustrated. They’re working with devices so aggressive that topical anaesthetic has become standard practice just to get through a treatment – adding prep time, reducing client comfort, and shrinking the window for spontaneous bookings. Others are dealing with disruptive software update requirements, excessive noise that puts clients on edge, or the all-too-familiar panic of a flat battery discovered minutes before a client walks through the door. And then there’s the cost. Premium-branded devices in this space can carry a significant purchase price and expensive consumables that quietly erode your margins with every treatment. For a growing clinic, that’s a ceiling on your profitability built right into your equipment.

INTRODUCING 1NEED PRO

ONE DEVICE. EVERY CLIENT. EVERY CONCERN.

Designed and manufactured in Italy, the 1NEED Pro isn’t just another microneedling pen. It’s a 3-in-1 medically certified platform that gives you – and your clients – something most competitors simply can’t offer: complete treatment flexibility from a single device.

4

INTERCHANGEABLE CARTRIDGE TIPS

Not one. Four. Microexfoliation, Microchanneling, Microneedling, and the subcision tip for scarring — each targeting a distinct skin concern, from entry-level skin refinement right through to advanced CIT treatments for deep scarring, acne scars, wrinkles and hair growth. You can onboard a first-time, needle-shy client with a comfortable microchanneling session and graduate them on the same device to full microneedling as their confidence and skin tolerance grows.

QUIET ENOUGH THAT CLIENTS DON’T BRACE

Soundproof aluminium technology means your treatment room stays calm and your clients stay relaxed. No numbing cream required for entry-level treatments.

CORDED & BATTERY OPERATED

Never cancel a treatment again because of a flat battery. The 1NEED Pro runs both ways; your choice, every time.

THE WORLD’S SAFEST

ANTI BACK-FLOW SYSTEM

1NEED Pro’s patented NoFlow® cartridges are unique to the industry. While other devices manage contamination inside the cartridge, NoFlow® uses a silicone cap outside the cartridge to capture any pathogens before they can ever reach the handpiece. It’s a patented, proven system that no competitor offers. For nurses, doctors and therapists who take cross-contamination seriously, this is non-negotiable.

DUAL CLASS IIA & IIB CERTIFICATION (CE-1375)

The highest tier of medical device classification available in this category. Plus ARTG listed, FDA cleared, and manufactured to ISO 13485:2016 medical standards. Not all devices in this space hold this level of accreditation, and for clinics with a duty of care to their clients, that difference matters.

MORE TREATMENTS. MORE CLIENTS. MORE REVENUE.

With 1NEED Pro, a single device services your entire client base: from the client who’s never had skin needling before, to the one chasing serious results. Affordable cartridges keep your cost-per-treatment low, and high client satisfaction drives rebooking. ■

For more information, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/1need-pro

“1NEED Pro has completely elevated what we can achieve in clinic –it’s easy-to-use, quiet and comfortable, and the low cost of consumables allows us to maintain strong margins while delivering high-quality results.”

Sam Appel, The Skin Bar

High concentration of pharmaceutical grade ingredients with proven efficacy

Pairs with microneedling and works in synergy with devices

Beyond the Needle: How Delivery-Driven Skin Boosters Are Redefining Treatment Results

You've invested in the technology. You've mastered the technique. But are you getting everything possible out of your treatments?

For many skin therapists, nurses, and aesthetic practitioners, the answer – once they discover delivery-driven skin boosters –turns out to be no. And the difference in clinical outcomes can be striking.

A SHIFT TOWARDS DEEPER DELIVERY

The conversation around energy-based treatments has long focused on the device itself. But a growing movement in professional aesthetics is shifting attention to what goes into the skin during and immediately after these procedures.

Delivery-driven skin boosters are concentrated, multi-active formulations, typically contained in sterile vials, designed to be infused into the skin in precise, treatment-ready doses. A standout trend in aesthetics, they represent a meaningful evolution in how professionals can customise and elevate their treatment protocols. The concept is grounded in solid science. Procedures like microneedling, RF needling, electroporation, and fractionated lasers create temporary channels or windows of heightened skin permeability. Introducing a high-concentration booster at this precise moment allows active ingredients to reach the deeper layers of the dermis far more effectively than topical application alone; maximising the biological impact of every treatment.

CUSTOMISATION IS THE CLINICAL ADVANTAGE

What makes Fusion skin boosters particularly compelling for professional use is the ability to tailor each treatment to the

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

individual in front of you. “The key is customisation,” says Raphael Chauchard, CEO of Fusion Meso. "Selecting the right active ingredients, the appropriate depth, and the correct protocol for each patient." Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, practitioners can select boosters targeting specific concerns: hydration and skin quality, pigmentation, fine lines, acne and congestion, scarring and stretch marks, hair loss, overall rejuvenation and luminosity.

This precision is what separates a good outcome from a remarkable one. When formulations are this concentrated, performance and purity are non-negotiable. Sterile vials preserve the integrity of high-potency actives, ensuring every client receives a fresh, uncompromised application –free from the degradation that can affect multi-use products over time.

NO T JUST FOR MICRONEEDLING

While skin boosters pair effectively with microneedling, their application extends well beyond a single modality.

SPOTLIGHT: F-EXOSOMES

This advanced formulation features a unique blend of 1.5% pure hyaluronic acid and the power of exosomes derived from Lactobacillus cultures. This formulation is specifically designed to deliver deep hydration, enhance skin resilience, and boost radiance, promoting a smoother, plumper complexion that feels rejuvenated and revitalised. One of the key advantages of this technology is its ability to facilitate cell-to-cell communication.

✔ Lift & firm, reduce deep wrinkles and fine lines

✔ Improve skin volume, tone and redness

✔ Stimulate cellular proliferation, wound healing and repair

When evaluating skin boosters for clinical use, Chauchard recommends prioritising:

✔ Sterile, pharmaceutical-grade formulations

✔ Minimalist compositions – only biologically relevant active ingredients. No perfumes, no preservatives, no unnecessary additives

✔ Highest-quality raw materials

✔ Optimised production processes and rigorous quality control

✔ A comprehensive range of solutions covering all skin types, areas, and indications

“Fusion is designed to be fully multimodal,” confirms Chauchard. “It works exceptionally well with microneedling, as the sterile vials allow safe and effective transepidermal delivery. However, it is equally well suited for electroporation, radio frequency combined with microneedling, and post energy-based treatments like fractional lasers.” This versatility means Fusion Meso skin boosters can integrate into virtually any treatment menu, adding clinical depth without adding complexity.

ELEVATE YOUR RESULTS

Whether you're treating acne, scarring, pigmentation, hair loss, stretch marks, skin laxity, or simply looking to deliver a deeper level of rejuvenation, skin boosters give you a clinically meaningful way to go further. The technology gets clients in the door. The results keep them coming back. ■

Scan the QR code to explore the full Fusion skin booster range, view clinical before-and-after results, and discover the protocols used by leading aesthetic practitioners.

For more information, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/ fusion-mesotherapy

The Missing Piece in Every Menopausal Skin Treatment Plan

You can have the best technology, the most advanced actives, and a loyal client base; but if you’re not addressing hormones, you’re only treating half the picture.

The once taboo topic of women’s hormones is thankfully becoming more mainstream. But for skin therapists, understanding the hormonal drivers behind menopausal skin changes isn’t just good practice, it’s the missing piece that separates average results from truly transformative ones. “The skin often mirrors what’s happening hormonally,” explains Janine Tait, Internationally Qualified Beauty Therapist, Nutritionist, and Founder of Bestow Beauty. When clients come in struggling with skin that seems to have changed overnight, the answer is rarely just a new serum.

HORMONES: THE ROOT CAUSE YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO IGNORE

Hormones influence everything: skin, mood, metabolic health, blood sugar, weight regulation, inflammation, collagen levels, and more. As women age and hormones shift, fluctuate, and eventually decline, the effects show up directly on the skin. Understanding this gives therapists a powerful clinical edge.

PERI & MENOPAUSE: WHAT’S REALLY HAPPENING

“As we enter our mid-40s [or earlier for perimenopause], that rhythm of the menstrual cycle begins to change,” explains Tait. “Because almost every tissue in the body has receptors for these hormones, the changes can feel sudden and far-reaching as your body recalibrates without its usual hormonal signals.” For your clients sitting in your treatment chair, this can feel confusing and distressing – and they’re looking to you for answers.

WHAT HORMONAL DECLINE DOES TO SKIN

This is where it gets clinically important. As oestrogen declines, oil flow slows and skin becomes drier, duller, and more fragile. Clients can lose up to 30% of their collagen in the first five years after menopause, which explains why fine lines and volume loss can feel sudden and dramatic. Some women also experience breakouts, as hormonal imbalance triggers

Prescribe

“Choose bioavailable, wholefood-based nutrients, and clean formulations designed for gentle, sustainable daily support,” recommends Tait. Layer with healthy gut support to encourage better nutrient absorption.

increased oil flow and congestion. Redness and sensitivity frequently increase too, since oestrogen plays a key role in calming inflammation. Recognising these as hormonal symptoms (not just skin conditions) changes everything about how you treat them.

THE MISSING PIECE: INTERNAL NUTRITION

Topical treatments are essential, but they’re only part of the solution. Ingestibles work from the inside out, supporting the systems most affected by hormonal decline. They provide clients with a daily, consistent anchor – something nourishing and predictable when their body feels anything but. The right ingestibles nourish the skin, gut, and nervous system, restoring suppleness, supporting collagen, reducing inflammation, and building long-term resilience. At this stage of life –one that can last years – consistency beats quick fixes every time.

MAKE YOUR CONSULTATION COUNT

This is where your expertise becomes invaluable. “A trusted skin therapist is in the unique position to treat women holistically,” says Tait. “By understanding the hormonal roots of skin changes, beauty professionals can guide clients with both topical care and internal nutrition – guidance that goes far beyond topical treatments.” When you connect the dots between what your client is experiencing hormonally and what you’re seeing on their skin, you shift from being a great therapist to being an indispensable one. That’s not just good for your clients, it’s transformative for your business. The missing piece has been there all along. Now it’s time to prescribe it. ■

For more information or to become a Bestow stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/bestow-beauty

Industry leader, Tait, is a gut and skin health guru, internationally qualified therapist, nutritionist and Founder.

Support skin barrier function, reduce inflammation, and help support the all-important, skin microbiome.

ANTIOXIDANTS

B VITAMINS & MAGNESIUM

Featuring Vitamins C, E, and polyphenols to help counteract the oxidative stress that increases with age and declining hormones.

Support nervous system resilience, energy production, and stress regulation.

COLLAGEN-SUPPORTING NUTRIENTS

Featuring Vitamin C, zinc, and amino acids to help maintain skin firmness when natural collagen production declines.

HYDROPEPTIDE COLLAGEN REACTIVATE PM

“The patented Nimni™ Technology works at a deeper level to support collagen regeneration, while the gentle time-release retinol enhances renewal overnight without irritation. It doesn’t just soften fine lines – it helps rebuild the skin’s structure, improving firmness, elasticity, and overall resilience. Every time I use it, my skin looks more refreshed, more supported, and more alive. It truly delivers both instant gratification and meaningful long-term change.”

YOUNGBLOOD BEYONDBLUR SKIN PERFECTING FOUNDATION

“I’m completely obsessed. It has truly changed the way I feel about my skin. The undetectable full coverage paired with that skin-like, luminous finish is unmatched. I have hyperpigmentation and melasma, and this foundation covers everything so flawlessly without ever looking heavy or mask-like. It looks like real skin, just perfected, and that makes such a difference in how confident I feel wearing it every day.”

PURE FIJI COCONUT SUGAR SCRUB

“Our Coconut Sugar Scrub, along with our soaps and oils, were the very first products we created and what launched us into the spa industry. It still feels like the heart of Pure Fiji to me. I love how natural they are and the way they transform the skin, leaving it soft, smooth, and glowing. It was also at the centre of the first community projects we initiated, which makes it even more meaningful. It truly represents the heart of Pure Fiji.”

Founder Faves

Want to know what brand Founders and CEOs really use in their routine?

You’re welcome…

FUSION F-MESOMATRIX

“Featuring non-crosslinked hyaluronic acid with growth factors, Centella asiatica and organic silicon, this is the most versatile product we make and the one that consistently delivers the most impressive results. It can be used on all skin types, at any age, and for many indications – hydration, skin quality improvement, prevention, postprocedure recovery, as well as the treatment of scars and stretch marks. It can be used with microneedling, but it is also extremely effective when applied after laser treatments or radio frequency microneedling procedures, significantly enhancing recovery and results. The outcomes are outstanding, and it is a product that doctors genuinely love and trust.”

BESTOW

BEAUTY PLUS OIL

“The healthy fats it contains are fundamental to skin strength, resilience, and protection against environmental ageing. It also nourishes my hair and nails, which naturally tend to be dry. I simply pour Bestow Beauty Oil over my lunch or dinner, usually something with vegetables, which keeps the routine effortless.”

Janine Tait, BestowBeau t y rednuoF

The #1 Professional Skincare Brand in the USA... Five Years Running

When the world’s most competitive beauty market keeps crowning the same winner, your skin deserves to know why.

If you’ve ever turned a client away because their skin concern sat outside your brand’s wheelhouse – or watched them walk out to find answers elsewhere – IMAGE Skincare was built to fix exactly that. Founded by certified aesthetician, Janna M. Ronert in 2003, IMAGE has grown into one of the most decorated professional skincare brands on the planet: voted America’s #1 Professional Skincare Brand (Kline & Company) for five consecutive years (2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025) and trusted by skin professionals across more than 60 countries. Today, along with Janna, Dr. Marc A. Ronert M.D., Ph.D., a European board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive surgeon, leads product development. Together, their extensive research and dedication to discovering the newest skincare technologies has brought IMAGE Skincare to the forefront of innovation. The question isn’t whether IMAGE can deliver results. The question is: can your business afford not to offer it?

SPA & SALON PROFESSIONAL SKINCARE BRAND IN THE U.S.*

23 YEARS RUNNING. 60+ COUNTRIES. NO SKIN LEFT BEHIND.

*Voted America’s #1 Professional Skincare Brand by Kline & Company, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024 & 2025

THERE'S NOT A SKIN CONCERN THIS BRAND CAN'T TREAT

Redness. Pigmentation. Compromised barrier. Fine lines and wrinkles. Acne. Post-procedure recovery. Chronic sensitivity. Wherever a client's skin sits on the spectrum, IMAGE has a clinically backed answer. With hundreds of active medical-grade ingredients housed across 11 colour-coded, easy-to-prescribe collections, IMAGE gives therapists a complete, seamless system – no gaps, no guesswork, no reaching for a second brand to fill the holes.

The result? Every client who sits in your chair can leave with a full prescription. Every treatment room becomes more productive. And every therapist becomes more confident in their ability to deliver regardless of who walks through the door.

STILL INNOVATING WHILE OTHERS STAND STILL

Many brands launch strong, then plateau. IMAGE doesn't work that way. With over 20 years of physician-founded research behind it, the brand is in a constant cycle of innovation – integrating the latest cosmeceutical breakthroughs before the rest of the industry catches up.

Its two exclusive delivery technologies set it apart: Vectorize Technology™ and the cutting-edge XOSM™ delivery system –engineered to drive ingredients deeper into the skin for smarter, faster, more visible results. Combined with clinical-grade, clean formulations and PETA-approved cruelty-free status, IMAGE offers credibility that resonates at every level: with therapists, with clients, and with the growing number of consumers who want to know exactly what they're putting on their skin.

The brand's philosophy is simple: help every skin Age Later™. The science to deliver on that promise? Already in the bottle.

PEELS THAT PERFORM WITHOUT THE FEAR FACTOR

Professional peels can be one of the most powerful and most intimidating services on a treatment menu. IMAGE has changed that. Built on a unique organic aloe vera base, IMAGE peels nourish and support the skin as they exfoliate, delivering clinical-grade results without the trauma, aggression or extended downtime associated with traditional acid-based peels. Backed by 10 types of stem cells, 15 antioxidants, peptides and botanical brighteners, these aren't peels that punish the skin into submission. They're precision tools, designed to transform without compromising skin integrity. For therapists, that means less anxiety around treatment selection. For clients, it means results they trust enough to return for again and again.

STEM CELL TYPES. NO UNNECESSARY DOWNTIME.

IMAGE peels deliver clinical results through nourishment, not aggression.

LOVED BY A-LISTERS. TRUSTED BY PROFESSIONALS. LEVERAGED BY SMART BUSINESSES.

TARGETED SOLUTIONS FOR SPECIFIC SKIN CONCERNS

Leaving no client behind, IMAGE offers a complete skin system that treats every skin type, concern and condition with a comprehensive diet of medical-grade ingredients.

Over 10 targeted collections

IMAGE Skincare doesn’t just perform in the treatment room, it performs in your marketing. Fans include Oprah and Hailey Bieber, and with five consecutive #1 titles and an ever-growing global presence, the brand carries instant recognition and credibility. That’s trust you can post, promote and convert before a client even books their first appointment. In an industry where client confidence drives bookings and retention, offering America’s #1 brand isn’t just a product decision, it’s a positioning decision.

THE SUPPORT BEHIND THE BRAND IS JUST AS IMPRESSIVE

In Australia, IMAGE Skincare is exclusively distributed by Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS), and the backing PBS provides is genuinely market-leading. With a Sales and Education team of 15+ specialists and a dedicated 10-person Marketing team, PBS delivers world-class training, hands-on business coaching and growth strategies built specifically for the Australian beauty market. Because PBS isn't just selling a product, it's investing in your business. The goal is a more confident therapist, a more loyal client base, and a more profitable salon. Every owner, every team member, every skin journey: supported. ■ 15+ SALES & EDUCATION SPECIALISTS. 10 MARKETING EXPERTS. SUPPORT YOUR SALON DESERVES.

Glycolic & retinols for ageing skin AGELESS+ retinol

Not All Peels Are Built for Your Business – Choose the Right Pathway

The chemical peel market is booming, but the real opportunity isn't just in offering peels; it's in choosing the right peel pathway for your clinic model. Here's how the PBS portfolio makes that decision simpler, smarter and more profitable.

The global chemical peel market has surpassed $2 billion and is forecast to reach $3.2 billion by 2032, with results-driven aesthetic clinics leading that growth. This is not another trend cycle. It's a structural shift in what clients expect, and what successful clinics must offer to stay competitive.

Today's clients are ingredient-literate. They arrive informed, asking smarter questions and actively seeking progressive protocols that deliver visible change between visits. Superficial and no-downtime peels remain the largest segment globally – volume drivers and gateway treatments – while corrective and preventative programs continue to expand as clients prioritise long-term skin health.

The decision is no longer whether to offer peels, it's which pathway fits your business model, your team and your clientele; and how to build it so it compounds over time.

The PBS Peel Portfolio

What sets the PBS peel portfolio apart is intentional diversity. Not every brand in this portfolio is designed for the same clinic model, and that's the point. Whether you are an entry-level operator introducing peels for the first time, a luxury facial business protecting your premium positioning, or an advanced clinical practitioner building structured corrective programs, there is a PBS pathway built for where you are and where you want to go.

BIO-THERAPEUTIC LOW COMMITMENT, EASY TO INTRODUCE.

Bio-Therapeutic offers the lowest barrier to entry in the PBS peel portfolio – no opening order requirement, no extensive supporting range needed. Its high-performance, foaming exfoliants are in a unique foaming format that gives therapists complete control over application intensity, making it easy to introduce as a standalone entry-level offering or as a preparatory step alongside existing technologies. For clinics that want to start building peel revenue without overhauling their menu, this is the natural starting point.

HYDROPEPTIDE CORRECTIVE RESULTS. WITHOUT SACRIFICING THE EXPERIENCE.

The conditioning and corrective bridge. Where most peel brands lead with acid strength, HydroPeptide leads with regenerative peptide intelligence, pairing acids with active peptides in the same formula so

skin is being rebuilt at the same time it's being resurfaced. Collagenstimulating, barrier-strengthening and brightening peptides work in tandem with exfoliation, not after. That distinction matters enormously for how peels fit into your business model.

Every HydroPeptide treatment is classified as luxury with no social downtime, which means higher client acceptance, easier rebooking conversations and the ability to progress clients through increasingly corrective protocols without the barrier of recovery. For clinics built around premium facial experiences, this removes one of the most common fears around introducing peels: that clinical results will come at the cost of the experience, or the price point.

Every treatment exfoliates and renews while simultaneously signalling skin to rebuild, firm and regenerate at a cellular level. Developed by geneticists and backed by epigenetic research, HydroPeptide is designed to integrate into 60-minute luxury treatment formats, supports premium pricing structures rather than undercutting them, and its barrier-supporting peptide technology significantly reduces complication concerns for therapists at all experience levels. Progressive correction is built in, supporting long-term treatment planning and the kind of retention that compounds month on month.

IMAGE SKINCARE CLINICAL AUTHORITY

AT EVERY LEVEL.

IMAGE Skincare occupies the broadest position in the PBS portfolio – spanning entry enzyme resurfacing, and pregnancy-safe protocols, through to advanced corrective acid-led protocols – and that breadth is a genuine business asset. For clinics building structured skin journeys, memberships or results programs, IMAGE creates a true correction pathway from entry to advanced that makes it easier for teams to prescribe with confidence and for clients to commit for longer. As a physician-developed clinical brand, IMAGE delivers evidencebased authority across the full ladder, and its I PEEL system is what sets it apart. IMAGE peels are delivered in an organic aloe vera gel base; that base doesn't just carry the actives, it feeds the skin simultaneously. Unique peptide, stem cell and antioxidant complexes energise, soothe, lighten, brighten, and detoxify while exfoliating. The result is a peel that corrects without compromise. From organic and enzymatic options through to advanced chemical peels, the I PEEL system targets everything from pigmentation and rough texture to premature ageing and congestion.

enzymes, AHA & BHA blends

ORGANIC ALOE VERA GEL

Anti-inflammatory delivery system

BRIGHTENING COMPLEX

Skin brighteners, tyrosinase inhibitors

PLUS.. CUSTOMISE & OPTIMISE WITH I ENHANCE BOOSTERS

THE PEEL OPPORTUNITY: WHAT IT ACTUALLY LOOKS LIKE IN YOUR BUSINESS

Peels are not a standalone service. They are a revenue strategy, and the numbers are straightforward.

What makes IMAGE genuinely different is customisation. I ENHANCE treatment boosters (including hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, retinol, antioxidant and stem cell enhancers) make every peel fully adaptable to the individual client. No two treatments need to be identical.

Consider a clinic introducing peels to just 20 clients per month at an average treatment value of $150. That's $3,000 in treatment revenue before a single homecare recommendation is made. Add a conservative retail attachment (a prep or post-peel product at $80) and that figure moves to $4,600 per month from one treatment category alone. Build that into a structured series or membership model, and the compounding effect on retention and lifetime client value becomes one of the most powerful levers in your business. Without a structured peel offering, clinics risk losing corrective cases to competitors, undervaluing their clinical authority, and missing the repeat booking and retail alignment that peels naturally generate when positioned correctly.

WHY BUILDING YOUR PEEL BUSINESS WITH PBS FEELS DIFFERENT

Clinical growth does not come from introducing a stronger peel. It comes from building the right infrastructure around it, and that is exactly where PBS comes in.

Introducing or expanding a peel offering can feel complex. PBS makes it safer and simpler than doing it alone, with done-for-you treatment protocols, team education pathways to support transition and implementation, menu integration guidance, pricing strategy support, and marketing campaigns designed for every stage of peel business growth. Ongoing business development coaching means your PBS partner is not just helping you launch, they're helping you build something sustainable.

At PBS, we support you at every stage of your peel journey, whether you're just getting started or building out an advanced clinical offering. From structuring your treatment menu and costings through to promotion, we're with you every step of the way. ■

To learn more about partnering with PBS and PAS, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

How Epigenetics is Rewriting the Rules of Skin Ageing

Discover the true power of peptides when paired with this cutting-edge science.

Epigenetics is rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about frontiers in modern skincare, and for good reason. However, while many brands are beginning to explore this science, few have the peptide expertise and clinical formulation depth to back it up. HydroPeptide has spent years at the intersection of advanced peptide technology and epigenetic science, developing exclusive patented peptides and blending multiple actives at clinically optimal doses –each formula engineered for a specific cellular outcome, rather than the token “sprinkle” of peptides that appears on so many ingredient lists purely for marketing purposes.

HydroPeptide’s Senior Cosmetic Chemist, Ian Vitek, explains what sets this approach apart.

HydroPeptide talks about communicating with skin cells. From a chemist’s perspective, what does that mean?

Peptides function as biological messengers that bind to specific receptors on skin cells, triggering precise cellular responses like collagen synthesis or cellular repair. It’s like having a direct conversation with your skin at the molecular level, where each peptide carries specific instructions that cells recognise and act upon.

Epigenetics can feel intimidating – how would you explain it in the simplest possible terms? Think of epigenetics as your skin’s volume control. We’re not changing the genetic ‘song,’ but we’re turning up the beneficial processes and turning down the ageing ones. It’s about influencing how your existing genes express themselves to create healthier, more youthful skin function.

How is epigenetics different from genetics, and why does that difference matter in skincare?

Genetics is what you inherit – your fixed DNA code – while epigenetics is how that code gets expressed, which we can actually influence. This difference is crucial because it means we can optimise your skin’s natural potential without altering your genetic blueprint.

Why is epigenetics such a powerful framework for results-driven skin treatments? Epigenetics allows us to target the root causes of skin ageing by modulating gene expression

rather than just treating surface symptoms. We can essentially reprogram skin cells to behave younger and function more efficiently at the cellular level.

Why are peptides so central to the epigenetics conversation?

Peptides are the key that unlocks epigenetic potential – they’re the signalling molecules that can influence gene expression in skin cells. Without proper peptide communication, cells can’t receive the instructions needed to optimise their genetic expression for healthy ageing.

How do peptides actually signal skin cells? What’s happening at a cellular level after application?

Peptides bind to specific receptors on cell surfaces, initiating cascade reactions that travel into the cell nucleus to influence gene expression. Within hours of application, cells begin producing more collagen, elastin, or other beneficial proteins based on the peptide’s specific message.

“As a Nurse Practitioner, I don’t adopt products lightly. HydroPeptide is my core range in-clinic and for home care. What sets it apart is its ability to bridge clinical performance with true client adherence – patients don’t just use it, they enjoy it, and that’s where real results happen. ”

Tina Roche, Tina Roche Skin & Aesthetics

When building HydroPeptide formulas, how do you balance potency with skin tolerance?

At HydroPeptide, we select peptides based on rigorous scientific data and specific skin concerns, using the clinically effective dose that delivers measurable results. Each peptide is chosen for its unique signalling pathway and ability to work in harmony with our other active ingredients. We use advanced delivery systems and careful pH balancing to ensure maximum peptide penetration while maintaining skin barrier integrity. Our approach prioritises sustained, gentle delivery over aggressive concentrations that can cause irritation.

What role does the delivery system play in ensuring peptides reach their target?

Delivery systems are crucial – without proper penetration, even the most potent peptides remain on the surface doing nothing. We use advanced carrier systems that transport peptides through the skin barrier directly to their target cells and receptors.

Many brands now include peptides. From a formulation standpoint, what makes HydroPeptide different?

HydroPeptide approaches peptides differently, prioritising proven concentrations, superior stability, and strategic combinations with other actives for maximum effectiveness. And we don't stop there. We create our own exclusive, patented peptides, delivering advanced results you won't find anywhere else.

How quickly can peptides begin influencing skin behaviour, and what does that look like over time?

Cellular signalling begins within hours of application, though visible changes typically appear after 2–4 weeks of consistent use. Over time, skin develops improved resilience, better texture, and more youthful function as epigenetic optimisation compounds.

What changes should therapists expect to see when peptides are working at an epigenetic level?

Therapists should observe improved skin texture, increased firmness, and enhanced radiance as cellular function optimises. The changes reflect improved gene expression; cells producing more collagen, better moisture retention, and enhanced repair mechanisms.

For a newer therapist, what’s the most important thing to understand about peptides before recommending them?

Understand that not all peptides are equal: concentration, stability, and delivery matter more than simply having peptides listed in ingredients. Focus on scientifically-backed formulations that demonstrate measurable results rather than marketing claims.

■

23.5% of formulation is patented peptides

“I’ve worked with HydroPeptide for seven years, and the results are second to none. I’ve seen clients go from dull, unresponsive skin to a healthy, glowing complexion. It genuinely helps ‘switch the skin back on,’ encouraging the cells to function optimally again. ”

Tabatha Skerratt, Pure Beauty by Tabatha

For more information or to become a HydroPeptide stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/hydropeptide different peptides including wrinkle relaxing and collagen boosting

Senior Cosmetic Chemist, HydroPeptide With dual degrees in biology and chemistry, Vitek specialises in advanced peptide technology and science-driven skincare formulation.

IAN VITEK

The Peptide Dream Team

COLLAGEN REACTIVATE

AND POWER SERUM

COLLAGEN REACTIVATE PM

2X the collagen in 90 hours

POWER SERUM

8 anti-ageing peptides –the most in a serum*

*Compared to leading anti-ageing serums.

PM

THE ULTIMATE TAG TEAM FOR YOUR HEALTHIEST SKIN

“Companies who invest in regular training report a 218% higher income per employee and 24% higher profit margins . ”

Think Again Think Team Training is a Cost?

Upskilling is always your smartest investment. Here’s why...

Team training isn’t just a nicety; it’s a necessity in the professional beauty industry today. It's the growth strategy that smart salons use to increase profits, retain staff, and stand out in an increasingly competitive business. Lean in, and education can be transformative; not only for salon teams but for business performance as a whole. The statistics reinforce this rhetoric. Want a more profitable business? Flip the script on team training and reap the rewards.

STAFF PROFITABILITY

According to the Association for Talent Development, companies who invest in regular training report a 218% higher income per employee and 24% higher profit margins. That translates directly into more bookings, better retail results, and staff who stay longer.

STAFF RETENTION

Training shows your team that you care about their career growth, leading to higher morale, better performance, and lower turnover. 87% of millennials say career development and training opportunities are crucial to staying in their job (Gallup & PwC.), while 40% of employees leave within a year if they don’t receive the training needed to succeed (go2HR). With staff shortages being one of the biggest challenges in the beauty industry today, training isn’t a luxury – it’s your best defence against turnover.

DON’T SETTLE FOR NO POST-PURCHASE SUPPORT

Looking for a partner that provides ongoing, industry-leading training and education? Look no further than PBS and PAS – boasting a robust and innovative education department led by a team of Clinical Educators and Business Development Partners (BDPs). From classroom training to in-salon sessions and online education (available 24/7 via the Online Education Portal), both PBS and PAS believe education is pivotal to enriching lives through the power of skin health and the key to ongoing success.

RISING CLIENT EXPECTATIONS & CONSTANT INNOVATION

Regular training and education ensure your team delivers consistently high-quality treatments, along with next-level product knowledge, professionalism and confidence, building a healthy retail profit, trust, loyalty, returning clients, and a credible reputation.

CLIENT SAFETY & COMPLIANCE

Incorrectly performed treatments or product misuse can damage skin and your reputation. Ongoing education ensures staff meet professional standards, follow protocols, and understand contraindications; protecting both your clients and your brand.

Expect exclusive partner access to a team of in-house, specialised Clinical Educators who provide hands-on guidance, ongoing training, advanced protocols, and continuous professional development. ■

To learn more about partnering with PBS and PAS, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

The Easiest Money You’re Not Making Yet

Revenue you can add to every treatment right now.

Bio-Therapeutic’s handheld devices and skincare upgrades slot into your existing menu – no major investment, no new appointments, just better results and a higher ticket. Your best upsell opportunity isn’t a new service. It’s the five minutes at the end of the one you’re already doing. Bio-Therapeutic’s technology is built to layer onto your current menu; adding visible results, instant upgrades, and new revenue streams to services you already offer.

BT-SCULPT GEN2

Handheld microcurrent for facial toning, lifting & sculpting

This is the add-on that pays for itself. A handheld microcurrent device that takes five minutes at the end of any facial or brow service

– and delivers the kind of visible, instant lift that makes clients say “what did you just do to my face?”

No extra appointment. No injectables conversation. Just a result your clients can see in the mirror before they leave.

Stack it onto your existing menu:

✔ Add a full face sculpt and lift to the end of any facial in under 5 minutes

✔ Offer an instant brow lift with every brow service

✔ Charge a $15–$30 upgrade fee and the device pays for itself faster than you’d expect

The technology behind it – clinically proven microcurrent that works at a cellular level to firm, tone, and stimulate collagen – is the reason results last beyond the treatment room. That’s your long-term client

BT-SONIC GEN2

9 3 power levels

9 Signature triangular brush head shape

9 Rechargeable battery with magnetic charging base

9 Silver ion technology for comprehensive sanitation

9 2 interchangeable Azul Silicone brush heads (one infused with corundum for an exfoliation boost)

SUPERCHARGED MASQUES

Retail or treatment upgrades for increased ATP production

Bio-Therapeutic's Hyaluronic Repair Masque is peptide supercharged, copper infused to help rapidly cool the skin, while delivering critical nourishment and repair. Supercharged hyaluronic acid combines with a three-peptide complex to support skin health and resilience, while reducing the signs of premature skin ageing.

USE ALONE OR PAIR WITH PROFESSIONAL MICROCURRENT DEVICES

Technology accelerates your services during the masque phase

All BT masques can be used as a powerful standalone treatment, with each masque formulated to target specific skin concerns, from hydration and barrier support to brightening and age management. Pair with a BT microcurrent device to unlock an additional layer of benefit: deeper active infusion and the stimulation of ATP production through Bio-Therapeutic's signature Suzuki Sequencing microcurrent technology. For hands-free application, pair with the BT Nano or Bio Ultimate Platinum, letting technology accelerate your services through the masque phase. ■

HD Delivery Masques

Hydration, Barrier Support, Conditioning, Flash Cooling

Infusion Masques

Hydration, Brightening, Firming, Renewal

Energy Masque Skin Energy, Resilience, Luminosity, Tone

To find out how to stock Bio-Therapeutic in your salon, clinic or spa, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/bio-therapeutic

Exfoliate, Extract, Infuse & Hydrate

For smooth, firm & luminous skin

Bio-Brasion GEN4+ treatments can be fully customised and tailored to your client’s needs. From an express 5 min add-on to a deluxe 60 min facial, it offers any business the ultimate in versatility and results that will have your clients returning again and again.

Advanced Microsonic Vibration

4 adjustable levels of vibration at the exfoliation tip for customisable refinement

Diamond Tip Precision

6 levels of diamond abrasiveness for a variety of skin types

Touchscreen Control

Intuitive, colour touchscreen interface with 4 vacuum levels and 4 microsonic settings

Next Level Power

116% more motor aspiration power than previous generations and 25% larger exfoliation tips than its predecessors, allowing for faster and more effective service

The Missing Step in Your Skincare Prescription

Stand out by choosing makeup that doubles as skincare. Most therapists miss this, and it makes all the difference.

Are you trusting your clients to use clean makeup post treatment? You shouldn’t be. Take the guess work out of it and ensure nothing toxic turns your results to ruin by prescribing all clients with mineral makeup. Choose a skin-first brand that is designed to nourish while allowing your skin (the body’s biggest organ) to breathe.

MINERAL MAKEUP FOR COMPLETE SKIN HEALTH

“We spend so much time, money, and energy taking care of our skin – both at home and in the treatment room –so it honestly makes me cringe when I see products applied afterward that doesn’t support that work,” says Hillary Clark-Mina, Celebrity Makeup Artist and Lead Global Educator for Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics. “As an esthetician, I want every layer that touches the skin to nourish, protect, and help it heal.”

HEAL WHILE YOU CONCEAL

It’s not enough to be considered natural or clean, because at this point, clients are savvy, and therapists need more. In addition to no nasties, natural ingredients and pretty products, you need clear, clinically-proven formulas that are skincare infused, but still deliver on what they promise, a beauty look that not only feels lightweight, but lasts, with seriously colour payoff.

“Youngblood Mineral Makeup is infused with real, skin-loving ingredients,” adds Clark-Mina. “It creates a protective, breathable finish that works with your skincare, not against it. If your makeup isn’t acting like skincare first, especially after treatments, it’s simply not serving you or your clients.”

AMPLIFY RESULTS & INCREASE RETAIL SALES

If your salon doesn’t offer a mineral makeup option, it’s a clear missed opportunity to increase retail sales, and amplify client results. In addition, it ensures clients resist the urge to undo your hard work with chemical-filled formulas that only add congestion once they leave the treatment room. By prescribing skin-first, mineral makeup, professionals protect and support results, elevate client trust, and extend treatment outcomes beyond the clinic. In a market where differentiation matters, this final step can be the difference between short-term improvement and long-term skin change.

SALON-APPROVED SKIN-FIRST MAKEUP

“We

started with Youngblood 16 years ago. It’s an incredible product. I tried other mineral makeup and hands-down it was far more superior . People thought we’d started with a new skincare brand because our skin just radiated.

The brilliance

is that it’s a professional brand, but also a retail brand.

”

SKINFIT BODY & BEAUTY Danielle, Owner

“I like to do everything as natural as I possibly can with my business. Youngblood’s coverage and staying power is phenomenal. I've done weddings at 5am and the makeup is still on at midnight.”

BEAUTY INDULGENCE

Kerrie,

Owner

MINERAL MAKEUP, CLINICAL CONFIDENCE

PRO SCULPT CONTOUR STICK & PRO GLOW CRÈME HIGHLIGHTER STICK

“The VividLuxe Crème Blush Sticks treat dehydration, dark spots, pores, and signs of age while giving the cheeks and lips the most gorgeous, vibrant colour. Since they launched, they’ve been the only cheek product I reach for. The new Pro Sculpt and Pro Glow shades make them even more versatile. I can now use them over about 70% of the face, and my clients love the results.”

BEYONDBLUR SKIN PERFECTING FOUNDATION

“This is a total game-changer. It’s the first foundation to be clinically tested and proven to be waterproof, long-wearing, and transfer-proof. I tell clients to think of it as both a personal trainer and a therapist for their skin. It’s powered by 70% skincare, our signature REMtrio Complex, and bio-peptides. It strengthens the skin while helping calm the visible effects of stress.”

LOOSE MINERAL FOUNDATION

“It’s a true problem-solver with flexible coverage and a soothing formula that’s perfect for sensitive or reactive skin. I’ve never come across a skin concern it didn’t help improve. And I’ve used it to cover everything from breakouts to tattoos flawlessly. I can apply it with primer and setting powder or, I can mix it into primers for a cream-like application. The best part is that it plays well with cream formulas, unheard of for a powder foundation.” ■

For more information or to become a Youngblood stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/ youngblood-mineral-cosmetics

HILLARY

CLARK-MINA

Lead Global Educator, Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics

A sought-after Celebrity Makeup Artist, Hillary ClarkMina brings decades of experience spanning editorial, retail, and professional artistry to her role of leading global education initiatives for Youngblood.

The Human Touch: Your Most Powerful Treatment Tool

Your devices impress clients. Your hands keep them coming back.

Picture this: your LED device is humming, your client is lying comfortably on the treatment bed, and you… leave the room. It’s a scenario playing out in salons and clinics every day, and it represents one of the biggest missed opportunities in modern aesthetics. Because while advanced technology has transformed what we can deliver for our clients’ skin, it’s the human connection layered around that technology that transforms a good treatment into an unforgettable one; and a one-time client into a loyal regular.

THE EMOTIONAL CASE FOR TOUCH

“Sometimes it’s the simplest moments that create the biggest shift,” says Julie Leverington, National Sales Manager for Professional Beauty Solutions. “Choosing the right lotion for a hand massage during LED, or letting a client select music that reflects how they want to feel when they leave. These experiences calm the nervous system, and the skin responds.” The numbers back this up. A UCLA study found that just 15 minutes of hands-on massage measurably increases oxytocin – the bonding hormone at the heart of trust and human connection – while simultaneously reducing stress hormones. In addition, Kitomba’s analysis of Australian salons, spas and clinics found that regular clients account for 67% of all appointments – and that those loyal clients spend 67% more than new ones. In a resultsdriven industry, the relationship between client and therapist isn’t a soft skill, it’s a business strategy. In short: how you make a client feel is just as powerful as the results you deliver.

WHY STRESS IS SABOTAGING YOUR RESULTS

Here’s something worth considering. In the race toward high-performance, fast treatments, the industry has largely overlooked one critical factor: a client who arrives stressed, and stays stressed, cannot heal optimally.

“Stress causes inflammation,” Leverington explains, “and inflammation always presents in the skin, affecting results, response and recovery time.” Research from the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami found that massage produces an average cortisol reduction of 31%. When you incorporate intentional touch and personalised sensory experiences into your treatments, you’re not just elevating the client’s experience;

you’re lowering their stress and therefore, actively improving their skin outcomes. The two are inseparable.

THE VALUE OF HUMAN CONNECTION

In a society that moves too fast and relies on screens, genuine human connection has become rare, and now precious. Post-pandemic, clients are craving it more than ever. When someone books a results-driven, device-led treatment but also receives the warmth of physical touch and the benefits of massage, the entire experience is elevated. It feels luxurious, considered and personal, regardless of how long that client is actually in the room. This is what sets a salon or clinic apart in a crowded industry. Clients don’t just buy results. They buy how you make them feel, seen and cared for.

HOW TO BRING IT BACK INTO YOUR TREATMENTS

So, do you usually leave the room once the device is switched on? That time is golden. Here’s how to use it:

Add hands-on massage. A hand, scalp or foot massage during a device treatment costs you nothing but creates a profound shift in the client experience. Beyond the emotional connection, massage works synergistically with technology to support the lymphatic system, calm inflammation, boost circulation, and reduce puffiness; all of which directly enhance your results.

Create a personalised sensory experience. Let clients choose a massage lotion, select their music, or simply ask how they want to feel when they walk out the door. These small gestures signal that this treatment was designed for them, not just performed on them.

Build rapport naturally. The hands-on time you create opens space for genuine conversation, leading to trust, upselling opportunities, and the kind of loyalty that fills your books through word of mouth alone.

THE RETAIL OPPORTUNITY HIDDEN IN THE RITUAL

When a client falls in love with a scent or texture during a treatment, they want to take that feeling home. This is your retail moment, and it’s one of the most natural selling opportunities in your business. By elevating the sensory ritual of your treatments, you engage the limbic system; the part of the brain responsible for emotion and memory. When a product evokes a feeling, clients don’t just want it, they remember it. Encourage them to recreate the experience between appointments, and you’ll find retail becomes less about selling and more about extending the care you’ve already established. Technology is not the enemy of touch; it’s the perfect partner for it. The therapists who understand this, and who commit to weaving genuine human connection into every treatment, are the ones who will stand out, build lasting loyalty, and see their results and their revenue rise. ■

For more information or to become a Pure Fiji stockist, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au/pure-fiji

STATISTICS PROVE PERSONAL TOUCH MATTERS

Massage therapy produces an average cortisol reduction of 31%, alongside average increases of 28% in serotonin and 31% in dopamine.

– University of Miami’s Touch Research Institute

Regular clients account for an average of 67% of all appointments, and loyal clients spend 67% more than new ones.

– Kitomba Industry Insights, Australian salons, spas and clinics

Your Success is Our Business

The support gap is real. Here’s how we are closing it... With an in-house team, tools and expertise to prove it; PBS builds genuine, long-term partnerships that go far beyond the sale.

In an industry built on transactions, Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS) has built its reputation on something much bigger: partnership. With a 20-year track record and fully integrated, in-house support, PBS provides partners with the infrastructure, expertise, and strategic guidance needed to succeed – clinically and commercially.

Now with the launch of Pro Aesthetics Solutions (PAS), this is only strengthened by the additional resources, research, and clinical expertise introduced. Together, PBS and PAS form a unified ecosystem, delivering technology, education, marketing, and measurable outcomes across the full aesthetic and medical aesthetic spectrum. Co-Founders Matt and Lisa Williams explain why their business model prioritises long-term support over sales.

What does 360° support look like day-to-day for a clinic owner?

Whether you are a sole operator or run a multi-room clinic, you have an Australia-based team in PBS and PAS, who are only a phone call away. Think of us as not just your supplier, but your partner, personally invested in every decision you make to drive your confidence, results and growth in an industry where the standard support at purchase is no longer enough. Your profit remains our priority long after the sale. We are simply obsessed with your success, and that’s where we are different.

Your profit remains our priority long after the sale. We are simply obsessed with your success, and that’s where we are different.

EDUCATION & TRAINING

Education is the foundation. Our partners receive initial and ongoing training so they can confidently deliver treatments, stay current, and continually elevate their skills.

CLINICAL & TECHNICAL SUPPORT

Along with dedicated Business Development Partners (BDPs), our partners have direct access to a team of clinical educators who can advise on everything from treatment planning to managing an adverse event, strengthened by our internal access to the medical minds behind the brands and technologies.

BUSINESS PERFORMANCE & COACHING

Our Business Development Partners (BDPs) work closely with clinics to analyse their business performance – everything from client retention to treatment mix and profitability. It’s about improving the entire business, not just selling more products. Many BDPs in the industry focus on quick ROI, but our culture is about tenacity and genuinely helping clinics succeed, even when the outcome doesn’t directly benefit us in the short term. It’s a mindset that runs throughout the organisation.

MARKETING SUPPORT

We have an in-house marketing team including marketing managers, copywriters, designers and public relations. Clinics can access professionally designed marketing assets via our exclusive Marketing On A Platter (MOAP) found on our Partner Portal, while our PR activity builds brand awareness that helps drive demand for the treatments and brands we offer.

OPERATIONS & LOGISTICS

Our warehouse, customer service and dispatch teams are in-house, so partners can call and speak to a real person who understands their business and adjust orders efficiently without dealing with the frustrations that come with outsourced logistics. Ultimately, it’s a holistic support system. Our goal is to improve every metric of the clinic – client satisfaction, retention, profitability; not just move more product.

“Working with PBS has been a turning point for both myself and my business.

The support, guidance, and accountability they provide has helped me achieve results that I genuinely don’t think I would have reached on my own. Matt has been incredible – his support with my financial figures has given me so much clarity and confidence in my numbers. Steph and Heather’s education and support has been invaluable to my personal and business growth. What sets PBS apart is not just the strategy, but the ongoing support and genuine care for your success.”

DH BEAUTY BOX Dawn,

Your team infrastructure is larger than most distributors. Why invest in internal teams rather than outsourcing?

We realised early on that if we built our own team, we could move faster, be more responsive, and produce much more meaningful support that aligned with us as founders. Having in-house infrastructure, means PBS and PAS can respond quickly to opportunities or clinic requests and produce materials with a much deeper understanding of the brands they represent. We want our voice, our culture and our standards reflected in everything we do. That approach also creates a more personal experience for partners. Infrastructure allows us to be more agile, and more customer-centric in how we support our partners.

How does that infrastructure allow you to support both large clinics and solo operators equally well?

Solo operators are the backbone of this industry. Running a clinic can be complex – managing staff, rent, marketing and finances – and many experienced therapists choose to focus on their craft. You shouldn’t be penalised for being excellent at what you do just because you don’t want to scale into a large multi-room clinic, or downsize from being one. Because PBS and PAS distributes a broad portfolio of treatments, devices, and skincare brands, solo operators can consolidate multiple areas of their business through one partner – and leverage that for

Integrity matters. We want to stand behind what we sell knowing it will still deliver value for a clinic not just in year one, but five years down the track.

rewards, accessing top tier training and receiving the same level of support as larger clinics. Our infrastructure allows us to support them just as much as a 12-room clinic. Owner-operators are deeply passionate and incredibly skilled. We love working with them.

What does being a true partner to a clinic mean to you?

For us, partnership means shared goals. Some companies treat the relationship as transactional – you have money, we have product – but we care about what that product will actually do for their business, their team, their clients and ultimately their lifestyle. That includes speed of delivery, responsiveness, knowledge, and helping clinics build a stronger business structure overall. When you care about someone’s success, it changes the way you show up for them. It’s also why PBS makes resources accessible to all partners. Marketing on a Platter (MOAP) is available to every clinic, and our rewards program is designed to be as fair and accessible as possible. Support at PBS is designed to be comprehensive rather than transactional, and that’s exactly what we are committed to delivering.

After 20 years in the industry, what do you understand about building a successful clinic that others still miss?

What you invest into someone today might not show up this week or even this year, but it can show up years down the track. That long-term mindset has shaped PBS from the beginning. Many companies define support as discounts or free products, but that often traps businesses in a cycle of discounting that erodes margins and limits their ability to invest in real growth. PBS takes a different approach. We’re not a discount company, we’re builders. Our goal is to partner with clinics to help them create sustainable, long-term success. While PBS does run monthly promotions, they’re designed strategically. They’re targeted campaigns with clear sellthrough strategies, so clinics can drive results without compromising the value of their brand. ■

To learn more about partnering with PBS and PAS, call 1800 625 387 or visit www.probeautysolutions.com.au

“ PBS genuinely care about my profits, and my business .

A lot of other suppliers I’ve worked with don’t have that same passion for my business, and when it’s my everything, it’s nice that someone shares that passion, that love and that want to grow.”

INDULGENCE SALON & SPA Kyra, Owner

“We are PBS stockists of 13 of their 14 brands. They're all amazing.

We are the biggest supporters of PBS. I think that everything we bring onto the clinic is revolutionary. They’re resultsdriven and our team just absolutely love everything.

BLUSH BOUTIQUE

Sammi, Owner

“PBS has been an incredible partner, consistently going above and beyond in their support.

From training and education, to events and business planning, Denise, and the PBS team, have been exceptional. Denise’s care, knowledge and genuine investment in my business makes a real difference. She is always approachable, proactive and truly understands our vision, offering guidance that supports both our team and our growth. It never feels transactional; it feels like a partnership built on trust, care and shared success, which is rare and deeply valued.

TEMPLE SKINCARE & SPA Rene, Owner

Professional Beauty

BEAUTY

THE

SEASON CORRECTIVE

playbook

A s the season turns, so does clinical strategy. Taneesa Williamson explores how the smartest clinics are approaching corrective season.

SUMMER IS a season of restraint for skin clinics. With UV exposure high and skin sensitivity elevated, intensive correction takes a back seat. Autumn changes that. For many practitioners, it’s when the real work begins — and increasingly, that work looks very different to how it did even a few years ago.

Historically, treatment plans have centred around a single hero modality, whether a laser series, chemical peel program, or microneedling course. While effective, these approaches are inherently limited. In response, a more strategic, layered approach is emerging — one that considers not just the modality, but the condition of the skin, its capacity to respond, and the pathway required to achieve a result.

From single solutions to strategic treatment design

At the core of this shift is a change in clinical thinking. Rather than relying on one device or modality, practitioners are building treatment plans that combine technologies to target the skin at multiple depths and across multiple pathways.

As Jessica Giraldi, head of education at Professional Beauty Solutions, explains, the industry is moving away from a ʻsingle-device, single-outcome’ mindset. Each client presents as a dynamic equation, where factors such as Fitzpatrick classification, seasonal influences and overall skin health determine not only which modalities are appropriate, but how they should be sequenced.

The advantage of a multi-modality approach lies in its precision. One treatment may address pigmentation, another collagen stimulation, while another focuses on calming inflammation or improving circulation. Individually, each has value. Together, they create outcomes that are difficult to achieve in isolation.

However, this approach requires restraint. Not every combination suits every skin type, and understanding risk is as important as understanding benefit. Alternating modalities across a treatment course — for example, pairing resurfacing sessions with lifting and tightening treatments — allows

Words: Taneesa Williamson

| Photography: iStock

continued progress while respecting the skin’s need for recovery. The guiding principle remains: treat the skin in front of you on the day, not the skin type on the intake form.

Preparation before correction

While corrective treatments take focus in autumn, outcomes are often determined before the first treatment begins. Skin preparation, particularly barrier strengthening, has become a critical step in modern planning.

A compromised barrier will not respond predictably to intensive treatments, increasing the risk of irritation, extended downtime and suboptimal results. Building resilience in the weeks leading up to correction allows practitioners to work more effectively and safely. This may involve simplifying homecare, reducing over-exfoliation and introducing barrier-supportive ingredients such as ceramides and essential lipids.

This phase is especially important for reactive or higher Fitzpatrick skin types, where the margin for error is narrower. In these cases, correction should never come at the expense of control.

Supporting the skin through the journey

As treatment intensity increases, so does the demand placed on the skin’s repair mechanisms. Multi-modality programs require the skin to regenerate and adapt at an accelerated rate, making internal and topical support essential.

Lisa Paone, head of education at dermaviduals, emphasises the importance of providing the skin with the correct building blocks. Formulations that mimic the skin’s natural lipid structure help restore barrier function and support appropriate responses to treatment.

Equally important is timing. Introducing too many modalities too quickly can overwhelm the skin, while appropriate spacing allows each phase of repair to complete before the next stimulus is introduced. In this context,

successful outcomes are less about intensity and more about working in alignment with the skin’s physiology.

Managing downtime without compromising results

More advanced treatment plans bring increased responsibility in managing downtime. Even resilient skin should be treated as temporarily compromised post-procedure.

Peter Moser, education and training manager ANZ at Hydrafacial, highlights the importance of ingredient selection during this phase. Actives such as retinols, vitamin C and exfoliating acids can exacerbate sensitivity when the barrier is impaired and are often best avoided in the immediate recovery period.

Simplified, barrier-focused homecare becomes the priority. Supporting recovery in this way reduces inflammation, shortens downtime and helps maintain treatment momentum. Clear client communication is equally critical — setting expectations around recovery and temporary product restrictions ensures adherence and preserves trust.

“RATHER THAN RELYING ON ONE DEVICE OR MODALITY, PRACTITIONERS ARE BUILDING TREATMENT PLANS THAT COMBINE TECHNOLOGIES TO TARGET THE SKIN AT MULTIPLE DEPTHS AND ACROSS MULTIPLE PATHWAYS.”

Pricing for outcomes, not appointments

As treatment plans become more sophisticated, pricing strategies must evolve alongside them. Jade Spehr, founder of Jadestart, advises clinics to move away from pricing individual services and instead anchor their offering to outcomes.

ʻThe key is shifting the conversation from cost per treatment to cost to achieve the outcome,’ she explains. Positioning multi-modality programs as a resultsdriven journey, rather than a bundle of services, reduces direct price comparison and reframes the investment.

Tiered program options allow clinics to cater to different budgets without discounting, while payment plans help reduce upfront friction. Adding value through inclusions such as consultations, reviews or homecare further strengthens the offer without eroding margins.

In the current climate, certainty drives decisionmaking. Clients are still willing to invest, but they expect clear timelines, defined outcomes and structured plans.

A more considered approach to correction

Corrective season is no longer defined by intensity alone, but by precision, preparation and planning. The shift towards multi-modality treatments reflects a broader maturation within the industry — one that recognises the complexity of the skin and the need for equally considered solutions. The opportunity here lies not just in adopting new technologies, but in refining how treatments are structured, communicated and delivered.

THE GREAT BARRIER

Chronic reactivity isn’t a skin type — it’s a consequence, learns Erin Berryman.

THE SKINCARE industry has a reactivity problem. Not the kind that shows up as redness on a consultation form. The kind driven by routines that prioritise intensity over integrity.

And the pursuit of results makes it easy to lose sight of the organ we’re actually treating.

Skin is, first and foremost, a protective structure. Its primary function isn’t to glow — it’s to keep the outside world out and the inside world intact. When we lose sight of that, we don’t just compromise results. We compromise the skin itself.

The cost of intensity

According to Jodi Ayre, global education manager at Synergie Skin, the consequences compound quickly. ʻThe overuse or misuse of exfoliation and actives remains a leading contributor to skin health impairment, often explaining why clients fail to achieve consistent or lasting results.’ From a formulation perspective, the cascade is well established: barrier lipid depletion, elevated transepidermal water loss, a fragile stratum corneum, inflammaging. ʻThe cumulative effect is a state of chronic low-level inflammation, heightened sensitivity, and reactivity, leaving the skin compromised with reduced tolerance and resilience.’

What’s tricky though, is it doesn’t always appear that way. ʻMany cases exist in a subclinical inflammatory state, where the skin appears relatively normal but behaves unpredictably,’ Jodi notes, ʻmaking increased reactivity to familiar products one of the earliest and most reliable indicators of barrier impairment.’

Practitioners should also watch for persistent lowgrade erythema, paradoxical dehydration-oiliness, atypical breakouts and delayed healing.

Restoring a compromised barrier demands a structured approach. For Jodi, that means skincompatible actives aligned to the skin’s natural 24-hour rhythm: daytime focused on fortification via a stable, non-acidic vitamin C and committed solar protection; evening centred on cellular regulation through vitamin A and B3 — the latter increasing barrier-strengthening ceramides, barrier proteins and regulated inflammation. ʻAll the while,’ she adds, ʻensuring a consistent support structure for the optimal microbiome environment by incorporating a pre- and postbiotic complex pre-serum elixir morning and night.’

Autumn is the ideal window to put this into practice. Reduced UV load and the skin’s natural inclination toward repair make it the opportune time to step back from intensity and rebuild.

ʻOur role as practitioners is to guide our clients through the hype and buzz, share our knowledge and expertise on how the skin works and set realistic and achievable expectations,’ Jodi says. Skin that is resilient, balanced and microbiomesupported doesn’t just look better. It performs better, season after season.

Words: Erin Berryman

Photography: Supplied

AS EASY AS

ABC

Ultraceuticals is making the case that the most powerful routine is also the most straightforward one.

THERE’S A certain irony in the skincare industry’s obsession with novelty. New launches, new hero ingredients, new systems promising to outperform everything that came before — and yet, for the skin therapists and clinic owners who’ve been in the industry long enough to see trends cycle through, the fundamentals have barely shifted.

Ultraceuticals has built nearly 30 years of credibility on exactly that premise.

When Dr Geoffrey Heber founded the brand in 1998, he wasn’t chasing cool. He was steered by the science. His early focus on Vitamin C — at a time when stable, effective formulations were virtually unheard of — set the tone for everything that followed.

That same thinking gave rise to what Ultraceuticals now calls the ABC Philosophy. Not a marketing framework but a clinical one, built around the three vitamins with the deepest, most robust body of peer-reviewed research behind them. Vitamin A. Vitamin B. Vitamin C. The actives that, used consistently and correctly, form the foundation of genuinely healthy, younger-looking skin.

ʻThe ABC philosophy is based on three of the most scientifically validated nutrients for maintaining healthy, youthful skin,’ says Geoffrey.

ʻEach works in different ways to support the skin, and together with sunscreen, they form the foundation of a powerful skincare routine.’

It’s a message that resonates particularly strongly right now. Clients are increasingly overwhelmed. They want results they can understand, from brands they can trust. It’s for this reason that Ultraceuticals — with its pharmaceutical-grade formulations, the clinical trial data to back up their claims and nearly three decades of skin transformation behind it — is attracting a new generation of fans, alongside their steadfast loyalists.

Ultra A Perfecting Serum uses proprietary Retinome® Technology for controlled retinol release, delivering visible renewal of texture and fine lines while minimising irritation.

Ultra B² Hydrating Serum combines multimolecular hyaluronic acid with Vitamin B actives, reinforcing barrier integrity and improving the skin’s tolerance to actives.

Ultra C+ Rejuvenating C Chebula Serum is powered by Triple Action Collagen Technology — 15% L-Ascorbic Acid, Chebula extract and MicroCollagen Peptide — to defend against glycation and support visible firmness over time. This is Vitamin C engineered for structural skin health, not just surface radiance.

Used together — Ultra C+ in the morning, Ultra A at night, Ultra B² in both — the ABC Protocol delivers what the most enduring brands always have: complex science, made simple.

TRANSFORMATION EDIT

The full journey, from first cleanse to final finish.

Laying the foundation for what’s to come

1. Youth Rx Ritual Melting Balm Youth Lab hello@youthlab.com.au

2. dermaviduals Cleansing Milk With DMS Derma Aesthetics 1300 420 223

3. Beauté Pacifique Chaperone Day Cream Beaute Pacifique 03 8201 7117

4. Natural Look Australia Bioactive Hydrating Serum Artav Australia 1800 805 276

5. HydroPeptide HydraFlora Probiotic Toner Essence Professional Beauty Solutions 1800 625 387

6. Dermalogica Pro-Collagen Banking Water Cream Dermalogica 02 8437 9600

7. Augustinus Bader The Ultimate Soothing Cream Augustinus Bader www.augustinusbader.com/au

1. iS Clinical Retinol+ Emulsion 0.3 High Tech Medical 1300 309 233

2. Juliette Armand AMESON PDRN Rejuvenation Cream G & F Distributors 1300 522 690

3. IMAGE Skincare AGELESS+ Retinol Complex Professional Beauty Solutions 1800 625 387

4. Ultraceuticals ExoSignal GF2 Facial Serum Ultraceuticals 1800 355 638

5. Medik8 Niacinamide Peptides Advanced Cosmeceuticals Skin Group 1800 242 011

protect and bring skin to life Where the heavy lifting happens

1. Dermaenergy Serve and Protect SPF50+ Dermaenergy 1300 799 709

2. SIMKA Lip Therapy SPF15 Derma Aesthetics 1300 420 223

3. Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Beyond Blur Skin Perfecting Foundation Professional Beauty Solutions 1800 625 387

4. Napoleon Perdis Desert Bloom Eyeshadow Palette Access Corporate Group www.napoleonperdis.com

5. Jane Iredale PureBronze Shimmer Bronzer Refill + Refillable Compact Margifox Distributors 1300 850 008

THE DR.ESTHÉ EFFECT

Spicule therapy is fast becoming a staple in Australian clinics.

KOREAN BEAUTY has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of skincare innovation. But in an industry where novelty can sometimes eclipse efficacy, distinguishing what is truly worthy of your attention as a practitioner can be tricky. One brand fast earning the confidence of Australia’s leading skin clinics is Dr.esthé.

The treatment modalities most in demand right now are those that stimulate renewal without aggressive resurfacing. Dr.esthé, a form of spicule therapy, sits firmly in that category. Developed alongside more than 100 dermatologists, distributor INSKIN COSMEDICS is seeing rapid uptake in leading Australian clinics such as The Skin Bar.

What are spicules?

Where spicules fit in the treatment mix

For Sydney-based clinic The Skin Bar, the introduction of Dr.esthé spicules was a natural extension of its clinical ethos.

‘It aligns perfectly with our philosophy of science, not surgery: high-fidelity results while respecting the skin’s biology,’ says founder Samantha Appel. ‘It’s perfect between regular needling sessions and can be tailored to be pregnancy and breastfeeding safe, which is a massive win for our mum community.’

Ensuring every treatment delivers

‘Not all spicules are alike,’ Maria says. ‘We support clinics with pharmaceutical-grade spicules, proven protocols tailored to specific skin concerns and intensive education covering spicule science, skin biology and supportive homecare. Education is critical to ensure safety, efficacy and repeatable results.’

Delivering visible, real-world results

‘Traditionally, we resurface the skin through chemical exfoliation or mechanical trauma like needling. Spicules create a third category: bio-stimulation,’ explains Samantha. ‘Dr.esthé spicules are uniform and pharmaceutical-grade, acting as a slow-release delivery system that bypasses the skin barrier to deliver actives precisely where they’re needed.’

Spicules are microscopic, hydrolysed freshwater sponge-derived particles designed to penetrate the epidermis and upper dermis without disrupting the skin barrier.

‘Spicules offer deep skin renewal without trauma or device application,’ explains Maria Enna-Cocciolone, founder and CEO of INSKIN COSMEDICS. ‘They penetrate at a microscopic level without disrupting the skin, making them incredibly safe and effective across multiple skin concerns, including ageing, acne, pigmentation, uneven tone and texture.’

The treatment’s flexibility allows practitioners to tailor intensity depending on skin density, sensitivity and broader treatment plan. ‘They’re an excellent standalone treatment and combine beautifully with microneedling, Photon therapy and professional homecare,’ Maria notes. ‘We often recommend it for dull, congested or pigmented skin — clients leave brighter, smoother and confident enough to embrace that no-makeup look.’

‘Dr.esthé offers an accessible, on-the-spot treatment for clients who haven’t prepped their skin, are fearful of devices or are prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation,’ Maria adds. ‘Comfortable, effective and often more budgetfriendly, with visible results straight away.’

To learn more, visit www.inskincosmedics.com.au

THE ANATOMICAL DIVIDE

WHY THE EYE AREA HAS ITS OWN RULES

Ophthalmic surgeon Dr Benjamin Burt makes the case for putting anatomy before actives.

IN THE world of aesthetics, we often treat the face as a single canvas. As an oculoplastic expert, however, my work is defined by the understanding that the periorbital region is a distinct anatomical territory. It behaves very differently to the rest of the facial skin and requires a more considered clinical approach. For the clinician, acknowledging these structural differences is key to moving beyond superficial hydration and supporting long-term skin quality.

The most immediate distinction is the sheer minimalism of the tissue. The skin of the eyelid is the thinnest on the human body, frequently measuring less than 0.5mm. Unlike the more robust dermis of the cheeks, the eyelid lacks a significant subcutaneous fat layer and has a much lower density of sebaceous glands. This absence of natural cushioning and lipid production makes the area particularly prone to transepidermal water loss and environmental stress – a key reason why early signs of ageing, such as fine lines and crepiness, are often first observed in this region.

“THE MOST IMMEDIATE DISTINCTION IS THE SHEER MINIMALISM OF THE TISSUE. THE SKIN OF THE EYELID IS THE THINNEST ON THE HUMAN BODY, FREQUENTLY MEASURING LESS THAN 0.5MM.”

Beneath the surface, the complexity intensifies. The eyelids are composed of a layer of skin, muscle and a fibrous plate known as the tarsus, which sits below the protective fat pads of the orbit. Because the skin is so thin and lies directly over the orbicularis oculi muscle, every blink and facial expression is translated to the surface. Over time, this repeated mechanical movement contributes to the development of dynamic lines, which may later become more static as skin elasticity declines.

The fluid dynamics of the eye

One of the most clinically significant challenges of the periorbital area is its vascular and lymphatic behaviour. This region is highly active in terms of fluid

Words: Dr Benjamin Burt

Photography: iStock/Supplied

movement. Because the tissue is relatively lax and lymphatic drainage can be easily overwhelmed, the area is particularly susceptible to oedema – which explains why many patients present with morning puffiness or under-eye bags.

From a clinical perspective, managing fluid congestion is an important consideration when treating the eye area. Plant-derived compounds such as gallates are frequently incorporated into formulations designed to support the appearance of reduced redness and puffiness. Inositol, a carbohydrate known for its hydrating properties, is also commonly used to support skin vitality and help maintain a well-rested appearance in this delicate zone.

Precision topicals vs generic care

Given the thinness of the periorbital skin and its susceptibility to congestion, the routine use of heavy, occlusive facial moisturisers around the eyes is generally not recommended. These textures can contribute to milia formation and may exacerbate puffiness. Instead, clinicians should look to purpose-designed eye products that deliver targeted actives in lightweight textures that the skin can comfortably tolerate.

“FROM A CLINICAL PERSPECTIVE, MANAGING FLUID CONGESTION IS AN IMPORTANT CONSIDERATION WHEN TREATING THE EYE AREA.”

To support concerns such as uneven tone and dark circles, ingredients like hexylresorcinol are commonly used in formulations designed to promote brightness and a more even-looking skin tone. To address the visible effects of repeated muscle movement, peptides such as acetyl hexapeptide-8 are often included to support the skin's structural matrix and soften the appearance of fine lines associated with fatigue.

The

clinician's objective

Whether a patient is being managed non-surgically or being prepared for a potential surgical consultation, the overarching goal remains the same: to

support and strengthen the thinnest skin on the body. By selecting ingredients that respect the unique anatomy of the periorbital region – and delivering them using precision tools such as cooling metal applicators to support comfort and drainage – clinicians can help improve skin appearance and resilience.

In my experience, the most consistent outcomes are achieved when anatomical understanding is paired with a diligent, science-based approach to clinical skincare.

5 common mistakes made when treating the eye area

1. Misidentifying brow ptosis. Addressing the upper lid for heaviness when the primary clinical issue is a descended brow. Topicals cannot reposition a brow that has migrated below the supraorbital rim.

2. Disregarding the tarsal plate. Treating eyelid laxity as a purely dermal concern. If the tarsal plate – which acts as the lid’s structural scaffold – has lost tension, topical tightening has reached an anatomical limit.

3. Over-stimulating thin dermis. Using aggressive energy-based settings on periorbital skin. Because this dermis is less than 0.5mm, overtreatment can lead to micro-fibrosis, which affects tissue pliability.

4. Ignoring vascular permeability. Failing to support vessel integrity following injectables or clinical modalities. Without ingredients like plant-based gallates to manage the vascular leak, recovery windows for bruising are often unnecessarily prolonged.

5. Applying high molecular weight formulas. Using rich facial lipids that act as a thermal blanket increases local vasodilation and causes fluid to move into the interstitial space rather than draining efficiently. ■

THE EYE EDIT

The formulations targeting the periorbital zone have never been more sophisticated.

THE EYE care category has come a long way from the caffeine roller days. Peptide complexes, biomimetic delivery and brightening actives now occupy a segment that was, until recently, derided by some dermatologists as little more than moisturiser in a small jar.

ASPECT DR

Eye Rejuvenation Balm

Clinically proven brightening actives, like Hexylresorcinol, pair with Inositol for hydration around the delicate area and Undaria Pinnatifida for antioxidant defence against environmental stress.

COSMEDIX

Opti Crystal Eye Serum

Proprietary Liquid Crystal Technology — inspired by the skin’s own lipid structure — drives hydration and actives deeper into the eye contour, visibly reducing dark circles, fine lines and crow’s feet.

INSKIN.CO

Blur Hydrating Eye Cream

Eyeseryl and Argireline

Amplified target stress- and fatigue-related changes around the eye contour, while KokoBlur creates an immediate soft-focus effect and Squalane supports the barrier long-term.

IMAGE SKINCARE

The MAX Eye Crème Vectorize Technology® time-releases encapsulated actives over up to 48 hours, while a Stem Cell Complex addresses cell ageing at the source and reduces puffiness, dark circles and lines.

PCA SKIN

Ideal Complex

Restorative Eye Cream

Myristoyl Nonapeptide-3 delivers retinoid-like results without irritation risk, while Niacinamide addresses puffiness and light-reflecting Boron Nitride instantly brightens the under-eye area.

IS CLINICAL

GeneXC Firming Eye Gel

Dual Vitamin C forms deliver fast radiance and cumulative tone correction, supported by Bio-Fermented Actives and a collagen peptide that collectively address laxity, dullness and dehydration around the periorbital zone.

O COSMEDICS

Eye Correct

The proprietary V8 Peptide Complex® works alongside a luminescent patent to correct dark circles and restore luminosity, while tetrapeptides target puffiness, lines and loss of firmness.

Words: Erin Berryman Photography: Supplied

peptides to perform even more effectively.

From a clinical perspective, exosomes are being utilised for their role in supporting the skin’s natural repair and regeneration processes. They are associated with optimising signalling pathways involved in inflammation, collagen production, barrier repair and wound healing. The evolution of using exosomes in daily topical skincare opens new possibilities. Evidence shows a significant improvement in skin texture, tone, firmness, hydration and overall vitality.

However, not all exosomes are created equal. Their source and method of extraction can vary significantly. Plant exosomes are gaining popularity, however, many are based on marketing hype and are not true exosomes, but rather common liposomes containing antioxidants and other plant-derived compounds.

EXOSOMES AND SKIN LONGEVITY

Terri

Vinson Jones, Founder & Formulator of Synergie Skin & SynTernals, unpacks the science of cellular communication.

SKIN LONGEVITY is fast becoming one of the most important shifts in professional skincare. It moves the conversation beyond quick fixes and into something far more meaningful. There is now a focus on preserving skin function, structure, resilience and integrity over time. At the centre of this evolution sits a powerful, and often misunderstood, innovation: exosomes. In skin biology specifically, exosomes are implicated in essential processes tied to healthy ageing and healthspan. This includes moderating oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting extracellular matrix (ECM) and fibroblast activity in the deep dermal layer, and influencing epidermal keratinocyte behaviour to support the barrier. When this intercellular communication is functioning optimally, the skin repairs, renews and maintains balance and resilience. Rather than acting directly on target cells as conventional actives do, exosomes work by acting as cell signallers. However, they do not replace an evidence-based topical regimen. By supporting the skin's own signalling processes, exosomes can enable active ingredients such as retinoids, niacinamide, vitamin C and many

In professional skincare, algal-derived exosomes are gaining attention for their targeted cellular activity, stability, ethical sourcing, safety profile and compatibility with the skin. These exosomes are rich in active molecules that have been bioengineered to mimic human exosomes. They deliver targeted signals without the concerns and regulations associated with human or animalderived alternatives.

Another important consideration is the overall formulation. Exosomes are delicate structures, and their efficacy depends on how well they are stabilised and delivered. The additional ingredients, pH levels and preservatives must be compatible and work in synergy with the exosome system, so they remain intact and active when applied topically.

For our skin professionals, this presents an opportunity in both treatments and daily prescribed regimens. It offers an evolved and more progressive approach using active vesicles that work in harmony with the skin and the other essential active ingredients.

But with all the scientific excitement surrounding this new and emerging category of skincare, it’s important to approach exosomes with both enthusiasm and scrutiny. Clinical validation, ingredient transparency and formulation integrity should remain non-negotiables.

Exosomes represent a shift towards smarter, targeted and more adaptive skincare that prioritises long-term skin health over hype or the ‘quick fix’. For clinicians and skin therapists, however, the real question is not whether exosomes are promising, but whether they are consistent, evidence-based, and capable of delivering reproducible outcomes in practice. ■

To learn more, visit www.synergieskin.com

THE TREATMENT YOUR CLIENTS ALREADY trust

Hydrafacial is a rare trifecta: trust, transformation and the receipts to prove it.

MOST TREATMENTS get discovered in clinic. Hydrafacial is a rare exception, often requested before clients even walk through the door. In a landscape where trust is hard-won and scepticism is the default, that kind of name recognition doesn’t happen by chance. Its reputation precedes it.

Built on patented technology, research-backed protocols and measurable outcomes, the Hydrafacial Syndeo system delivers the visible results, lasting client confidence and glowing referrals that keep clinics booked.

Transforming non-invasive facial treatments

Hydrafacial Syndeo is not just another facial treatment system. Its vortex-fusion technology simultaneously cleanses, exfoliates, extracts, and hydrates the skin in a single, painless and non-invasive treatment. The Syndeo platform takes it further, allowing practitioners to tailor protocols to every skin type and concern, from fine lines and pigmentation to congestion and dullness.

What sets Hydrafacial apart is its foundation in scientific research and clinical evidence. Multiple studies demonstrate measurable improvements in hydration,

texture, and overall skin health. For instance, a 2022 clinical evaluation published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology reported a 35% increase in skin hydration and visible improvement in brightness after just three sessions.

Case studies that build trust Credibility matters in professional beauty. Multi-clinic Australian case studies involving over 200 clients highlight Hydrafacial’s predictable outcomes:

• 90% satisfaction rate among clients reporting visible improvement

• Significant reduction in hyperpigmentation and uneven tone within four weeks

• Clinically verified improvements in fine lines and skin elasticity, confirmed via dermal imaging By integrating science and real-world results, clinics can offer transparent, reliable treatments that earn long-term client loyalty, exactly the kind of credibility today’s clients seek.

Smarter technology, safer practice

The Hydrafacial Syndeo device empowers practitioners with a touchscreen interface, customisable treatment protocols, and advanced serum delivery systems. This aligns perfectly with the growing industry emphasis on education, compliance, safety, and transparent communication, all key pillars in building client trust.

To learn more, visit www.hydrafacial.com.au

The other

15 PER CENT

Sun has dominated the environmental ageing conversation for decades. It is time to widen the lens.

UV RADIATION accounts for 80 to 85 per cent of visible skin ageing. The industry has built an entire culture around that number — and rightly so. But it is the remainder that is quietly reshaping how forward-thinking brands and practitioners are approaching protection.

Pollution. Heat stress. Infrared radiation. Airborne toxins. According to Dr Charlene DeHaven, Clinical Director at iS Clinical and a leading voice in evidence-based skincare, these threats are more consequential than clients think. ʻThese all operate by the same mechanism, which is free radical damage,’ she explains. ʻThey can be helped by sunscreens with additional antioxidants, although not completely eliminated. No matter how diligent we are, some ageing is still going to occur.’

‘CONCEPTUALLY, THEY CAN BE THOUGHT OF AS A SORT OF PROTECTIVE BUBBLE WRAP.’

The response from iS Clinical is GeneXC Technology. The proprietary blend pairs exclusive Extremozyme plant extracts with the antioxidant potency of vitamin C. Extremozymes are derived from plants that have evolved to survive in extreme environments: deserts, alpine regions, geothermal zones. That evolutionary resilience, translated into topical skincare, offers something DeHaven puts simply. ʻConceptually, they can be thought of as a sort of protective bubble wrap,’ shielding vital biological structures, including DNA, from the cumulative stress of modern environmental exposure. iS Clinical’s own science positions the technology within the emerging field of epigenetics, with GeneXC designed to support gene function that becomes less efficient as skin ages.

The combination of Extremozymes and L-ascorbic acid is key. ʻBoth protect against free radical damage but they work in different ways,’ DeHaven explains. ʻTheir protective mechanisms potentiate each other.’ This distinction is worth communicating to clients.

ʻThe professional is always trying to assist the client’s skin in its resilience against environmental damage of all sorts.’ GeneXC Technology gives practitioners the mechanism to do exactly that while opening up a more comprehensive conversation with clients about how skin ages beyond UV. ■

Words: Erin Berryman Photography: Supplied

IN AN ERA WHERE TRANSPARENCY IS NONNEGOTIABLE, THESE BRANDS PUT IT ALL ON DISPLAY WITH CONFIDENCE.

O COSMEDICS Immortal Cream INSKIN COSMEDICS 02 9712 8188

Synergie Skin HyalaVive Triple Hyaluronic Serum Synergie Skin 1300 689 619 MYŚAA Aurora Bloom Brightening & Plumping Moisturiser MYŚAA info@mysaasecrets.com

Bespoke Skin Technology Luminosity Revive & Refine Serum Bespoke Skin Technology admin@bespokeskintechnology.com dermaviduals EGCG Liposome Derma Aesthetics 1300 420 223 Honey Biotics Intense Moisturiser Honey Biotics www.honeybiotics.com

DEFINE AND REFINE

HOW TO BUILD YOUR DEVICE PORTFOLIO

Strategy beats accumulation — don’t let your devices gather dust.

THERE ARE more aesthetic devices than ever for clinic owners to choose from. At the same time, there’s growing pressure for clinics to stand out. Curating a future-proofed device portfolio goes far beyond simply comparing specifications and before-and-afters. It’s about building or expanding your selection with a clear strategy.

ʻIncreasingly, technology is being evaluated not only on clinical results but also on utilisation, patient demand, treatment throughput, consumables, staff training and marketing support,’ says Mat Green, director of aesthetic technology at Pro Aesthetic Solutions. ʻThe conversation is shifting from “what device should I buy?” to a much more strategic question: how does this technology strengthen the overall economics of my clinic?’

To begin answering that question, Meghann Nikola, founder of Rêve Skin & Beauty in Sydney’s inner west, listens closely to what clients mention during consultations. She says the most valuable devices are those that become a consistent part of a client’s routine.

ʻIf we’re hearing the same concerns again and again — pigmentation, texture, skin quality — that tells us where the gaps are,’ she says. ʻIf the demand is coming from real women sitting in front of us, that matters. If it’s just noise online, we take our time. We’re not interested in adding treatments just because they’re new or trending.’

Matt Moncrieff, managing director at High Tech Medical, suggests starting with a multi-purpose, non-invasive, energy-based platform capable of addressing various indications — ideally one with strong brand recognition and client awareness.

ʻAs the clinic grows and budgets allow, introducing more specialised technologies can create a point of difference, offering advanced treatments that set the clinic apart,’ he says. ʻTaking the time to properly evaluate technology ensures investments are aligned with both patient needs and the clinic’s long-term success.’

When deciding whether to invest in a new device, Green suggests first understanding the total amount your clients are likely to spend on aesthetic treatments annually, then assessing client spend leakage — the amount likely being spent at other providers offering treatments you don’t. He notes that leakage isn’t usually a reflection of service quality, but potentially of a narrow treatment offering.

ʻThe most successful clinics approach technology differently,’ he says. ʻWhen devices are selected strategically to support complementary treatments and integrated treatment journeys, clinics can significantly increase revenue without necessarily needing more clients.’

There is, however, a balance between adding devices and accumulating them. Moncrieff warns that the allure of quick revenue or being first to ʻthe next big thing’ can lead to impulse purchasing — resulting in devices unsuitable for a clinic’s client base, with limited long-term performance or only short-lived treatment demand. He says clinics often benefit from taking a measured, considered approach before investing in new technology.

‘IT’S NOT ABOUT HAVING EVERYTHING: IT’S ABOUT KNOWING EXACTLY HOW TO USE WHAT YOU HAVE.’

Another consideration is whether a device is backed by clinical evidence and regulatory oversight. Nikola notes that some lower-cost devices lack the Therapeutic Goods Administration registration or clinical evidence she requires for her clinic.

ʻWe’re seeing a wider spread between highquality, clinically validated devices and lower-cost alternatives, and I think that gap will become more visible over the next few years,’ she says. ʻAs that happens, both regulation and client awareness will play a bigger role. That will naturally push the industry toward greater transparency around safety, outcomes and practitioner expertise.’

All three experts agree that practitioner skill is one of a clinic’s biggest differentiators. Nikola says two clinics can have the same device but deliver different outcomes, depending on the practitioner’s experience and treatment planning. ʻIt’s not about having everything: it’s about knowing exactly how to use what you have.’

Moncrieff adds that clinics tend to stand out when they get the basics right: a well-trained, wellpaid team making well-informed decisions about devices, treatments and client outcomes.

Green agrees: ʻWhere clinics truly differentiate themselves is not through the device itself, but through how that device is used. In aesthetics, trust and results ultimately matter far more than the brand name on the machine.’ ■

Self Tan by O

Words: Amy Hadley

| Photography: iStock

A NEW generation

How cultural shifts are showing up in the treatment room.

HAIR REMOVAL has long been positioned as a routine part of beauty maintenance. You booked, you came back, you repeated. The idea that it might be a choice — genuinely optional, entirely personal — barely entered the conversation. However, shifting cultural narratives are reframing how, and why, clients engage with these services.

Among younger consumers, the conversation is evolving. Hair removal is no longer viewed as an

obligation, and that distinction is influencing both demand and how businesses position their offerings.

This change is less about rejecting hair removal and more about redefining its role. Where previous generations often approached treatments through expectation or conformity, younger clients are engaging on their own terms.

Driven by broader conversations around autonomy and self-expression, platforms like TikTok have normalised a spectrum of choices. As Emma Gray, category manager, laser and skin at Laser Clinics, explains, ʻyou’re seeing everything from embracing natural body hair through to full removal, but the key shift is that it’s much more about personal choice.’

This signals a more nuanced client mindset. Today’s client is less likely to follow a fixed treatment pathway and more inclined to seek a tailored approach aligned with their preferences.

Importantly, this evolution is strengthening the category, not threatening it. Clients who actively choose hair removal tend to be more engaged, informed and committed to their treatment journey.

As expectations evolve, clinics are adapting both treatment offerings and consultation styles. One of the most notable changes is the growing demand for long-term solutions. According to Matt Moncrieff, managing director of High Tech Medical, ʻclients are increasingly weighing the long-term value and benefits of laser hair removal,’ boosting demand for more permanent solutions.

Demand is also broadening. Clinics are seeing increased interest from male clients, particularly for the back and chest. As Matt notes, this ʻreflects a shift in mindset about hair removal becoming part of a grooming regime, with an increase in appeal across a broader demographic.’

For waxing providers, the move towards personalisation presents its own opportunity. Where laser offers permanence, waxing offers flexibility — the ability to tailor results with precision, adjust to changing preferences and maintain a level of control that longer-term solutions can’t replicate. For clients who are still defining what they want, that adaptability is increasingly part of the appeal.

Emma highlights that these differences are also changing how therapists engage in the treatment room, with a stronger focus on education, reassurance and building confidence for those newer to professional services.

Ultimately, a more choice-driven client base is good for the category. These clients are not disengaging from hair removal. They are engaging with it more intentionally, with clearer expectations. That presents a genuine opportunity to move beyond one-size-fits-all service models and position offerings around customisation, expertise and trust. ■

THE COST OF

compromise

The

wax in your warmer

could be costing you clients, revenue and your reputation.

THERE IS a particular kind of client loss that never shows up in your cancellation data. She doesn't complain. She doesn't leave a review. She simply doesn't return — and takes her social circle elsewhere. In an industry built on word-of-mouth, the silence of a dissatisfied client is far more costly than any complaint.

For salons that have made the switch to LYCON, the opposite is equally true. Salons report a 20% increase in business within six weeks, driven by clients rebooking treatments they'd previously written off as too uncomfortable, and by genuine recommendations bringing new faces through the door. The variable, in both cases, is the wax.

The false economy of inferior product

The wax room is often where corners get quietly cut but it is a decision that can be detrimental. Waxes that run too hot leave skin red and reactive for hours. Products that fail to grip shorter hair growth leave therapists reaching for tweezers, adding time and undermining results. Clients

may not say anything, but they feel it. And when treatments become a struggle rather than a craft, staff retention suffers alongside client loyalty.

Australia’s #1 Wax Worldwide

LYCON’s founding principle is simple: quality is non-negotiable. Developed by Lydia Jordane in 1968 for personal use, the brand was commercially launched in 1978 and has since rolled out to more than 80 countries. Manufactured in Brisbane, every product undergoes meticulous in-house R&D and testing, signed off personally by Lydia before it reaches the professional market.

The LYCON precision waxing system’s stripless hot waxes operate at an unusually low temperature, gently shrink-wrapping hairs, with no time wasted waiting for wax to set, and can remove hairs as short as 1mm. LYCON hot waxes can be reapplied to freshly waxed areas five to six times, if necessary, without discomfort, leave no redness and are globally recognised for being practically pain-free and super reliable for all professional waxing applications.

The award-winning waxes

Three formulas that have earned their place in the treatment room, each available in beads and blocks:

• LYCOjet Hot Wax — Designed for salons’ most-requested service, delivering the comfort and precision that keeps Brazilian and bikini clients coming back. Also, perfect for underarms and all face waxing.

• Pinkini Hybrid Hot Film Wax — Maximum efficacy on the most sensitive skin, developed specifically for intimate and bikini waxing.

• LYCOdream Hybrid Hot Film Wax — The best of both worlds: the grip of LYCON traditional hot wax and the pliability of LYCOtec film wax, in one low-temperature formula.

For more information, visit www.lycon.com.au

EVERY SKIN, EVERY

Season

Add to your radar the device building year-round revenue, predictable bookings and an ever-renewing patient base.

NOT EVERY patient books in winter. Not every skin tone follows the same treatment calendar. For clinics building genuine year-round capacity in laser hair removal, the device has to keep pace with both realities. That’s precisely the problem Alma’s Soprano Titanium SE is engineered to solve. The device’s triple-wavelength diode platform — delivering 755nm, 810nm and 1064nm simultaneously via a tri-clustered array — treats the full Fitzpatrick I–VI spectrum safely, including tanned and darker skin tones that have historically required deferral during warmer months. No seasonal restrictions. No patient turned away based on skin tone or time of year.

The clinical case is well-documented. A study published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology (Akerman et al.) reported 85% mean hair reduction and a 4.8 out of 5 patient satisfaction score across skin types, with no significant adverse events — peer-reviewed numbers practitioners can cite with confidence.

Speed is another distinguishing factor. The 4cm² spot size combined with Alma’s patented In-Motion™ technology reduces treatment time for larger areas — legs, back, thorax — by up to 50% compared to earlier systems. More patients per day without compromising outcomes is a straightforward case in efficiency, and validated as the fastest laser hair removal on the market by independent research agency Sapio Research.

Patient comfort is addressed through ICE Plus™ integrated contact cooling, which maintains continuous skin temperature throughout treatment,

“THE DEVICE IS ENGINEERED FOR CLINICAL EFFICIENCY, NOT JUST PERFORMANCE. IT’S A DISTINCTION THAT MATTERS WHEN BOOKING PRESSURE PEAKS.”

and the SHR (Super Hair Removal) gradual heating method, which is a departure from single-pulse approaches that have historically made laser hair removal a harder sell for pain-averse patients.

From a business model perspective, laser hair removal is one of the few aesthetic treatments with built-in retention mechanics. A standard course of six to eight sessions spaced four to eight weeks apart creates predictable booking cadence and consistent cashflow — and because it’s often a patient’s entry point into technology-based aesthetics, it tends to anchor longer-term clinic relationships.

There’s also a market renewal argument worth noting. Unlike treatments tied to specific trends or life stages, laser hair removal attracts new cohorts of young adults each year. Demand doesn’t plateau — it resets, making capital investment in the right platform a longer-horizon calculation than it might first appear.

The Soprano Titanium SE was nominated for Aesthetics Journal Energy Device of the Year within eight months of its 2019 launch. Its predecessor, the Soprano ICE, won the same award in 2015.

Words: Erin Berryman

| Photography: Supplied

KNOW YOUR CLIENT

NOT ALL cosmetic tattoo clients are created equal. They don’t arrive with the same expectations, the same emotional investment or the same appetite for risk.

The global permanent makeup (PMU) market was valued at USD $1.8 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD $3.7 billion by 2034 (source: Data Intelo, 2026), driven not by novelty but by a sustained consumer shift toward time-saving, low-maintenance beauty. Australia was noted as a significant market in the report.

Technical skill is the most critical success driver, but second to that? Reading the room. Here are the five client profiles you’re most likely to encounter, and what each one actually needs from you.

1.

The First-Timer

Done the research (or thinks so).

Motivated by convenience and the promise of low maintenance, they arrive with saved Instagram posts and a vague brief. They’ve done some research but don’t always know the right questions to ask, and they’re quietly apprehensive about the permanence. They’re also the most price-sensitive client you’ll see, which means they’re likely comparing you to at least two others, and your consultation is doing the conversion work.

Education is non-negotiable. They need a clear understanding of the process, the healing cycle and realistic longevity expectations before they commit. Nail this and they become your most predictable long-term client.

Business note: High conversion risk, low loyalty –for now. The consultation is your most valuable tool.

2.

The Over-Corrector Been burned before.

The shape is off, the pigment has shifted warm, the style has dated. They want resolution. They arrive emotionally invested, often carrying frustration or embarrassment about previous work, and their expectations tend to run high precisely because they’ve already been disappointed once.

Be honest about what’s achievable in one session versus multiple. Understand what failed before and why. Don’t over-promise to close the booking. Handled with transparency and skill, this client becomes one of your most loyal.

Business note: High expectation, high retention potential. Trust built here compounds.

The five profiles driving cosmetic tattoo demand.

3.

The Maintenance Client Consistent but don’t get complacent.

They know their fading cycle, they book ahead and they arrive with a clear brief. The consultation is efficient, the outcome is predictable and they refer confidently because they know what to expect. They are your most stable revenue stream and the backbone of a sustainable practice.

The risk with this client is complacency. They stay because the experience is consistent — not because they have no alternatives.

Business note: Protect this relationship with the same rigour you’d apply to a new client.

4.

The Trend-Led Client TikTok sent them here.

They’ve booked off the back of a reel featuring a look that’s everywhere right now. They know what they want, they’re ready to commit and conversions are fast. The challenge is longevity — both of the trend and of the result. What reads as essential today can feel dated within a season, and cosmetic tattooing doesn’t move at the same pace as a haircut.

Your job is to balance their enthusiasm with realism. Talk face shape, talk the two-year view, talk what holds up as the trend evolves. A fast booking that leads to regret is a retention and reputation problem.

Business note: Fast conversions, real regret potential. Education here is risk management.

The Minimalist Wants enhancement, not transformation.

5. THE SIXTH PROFILE?

Results so considered that most people won’t be able to pinpoint exactly what’s changed. They’re risk-averse, research-driven and typically sit at the older, higher-income end of your client base. Their decision cycle is long; their spend, when they commit, is high. They have chosen you deliberately.

They’re also increasingly well-served by the market. Data Intelo identifies growing consumer preference for natural-looking results as one of the primary drivers of global PMU growth. Microblading, which held the largest product-type share at 34.2% of the global market in 2025, is largely their category.

Don’t oversell them. Deliver precisely what they asked for and they will send every like-minded client they know directly to your door.

Business note: Premium positioning, slower decisions, higher-value outcomes, and some of your strongest referrals.

The cosmetic tattoo client is no longer exclusively female. According to recent research, male consumers represent one of the fastest-growing segments in the global PMU market, driven by demand for timesaving routines, professional image and an increasingly normalised grooming culture.

Services gaining traction among male clients include eyebrow definition and scalp micropigmentation. For practitioners, this is an opportunity to reassess how your studio currently presents and markets tattooing services. If your consultation process, your imagery and your language are built entirely around a female client experience, you may already be leaving a segment at the door. ■

Source: Data Intelo, 2026

Osmosis Pressed Base

This pressed powder foundation creates an optimal environment for skin to heal. Tea tree extract works as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent to calm redness and support recovery, while moringa extract delivers deep hydration and defence against environmental toxins.

HEAL AND CONCEAL

Getting back to business post-treatment often requires a few considered tweaks.

DEMAND FOR low- to no-downtime treatments is surging. Clients want results without disruption, and the appeal of walking out and getting on with their day is a genuine drawcard. But ʻno downtime’ doesn’t tell the whole story. For many clients, returning to work or social commitments means returning to makeup, which is part of the recovery practitioners need to factor in.

Following an aesthetic treatment, the skin barrier is temporarily compromised. Inflammation, sensitivity and increased transepidermal water loss are common in the hours and days after a procedure. The wrong makeup choice can slow recovery, trigger a reaction or undermine results. Knowing which products to recommend is a simple way to extend your duty of care beyond the treatment room.

What to recommend

Direct clients toward lightweight mineral formulas free from fragrance, alcohol and occlusive agents. Skin-supportive ingredients also offer an added recovery benefit without compromising the complexion.

1SKIN Lotus Skin Prime

The ideal first step before makeup on sensitised skin.

Powered by lotus flower water — a biomimetic, plantbased active — and infused with organic fruit extracts, lime butter, jojoba oil and desert date oil, this silicone-free primer protects, nourishes and hydrates while creating a smooth, natural base.

Aleph Radiance Balm

Warmed between fingertips and pressed to the high points of the face, this illuminating balm blurs, smooths and delivers luminous glow without weight. Organic totarol, cocoa seed butter, jojoba oil and CoQ10 nourish and fortify while skin recovers.

This triple-milled mineral

sheer-to-medium coverage with the added benefit of SPF 25, which is a welcome bonus for post-treatment skin that demands added protection. Enriched with Australian botanicals, diffusing pigments softly blur imperfections while supporting skin health and radiance throughout the healing process.

Youngblood Mineral Cosmetics Loose Mineral Foundation

With just five ingredients, this dermatologistrecommended pure mineral powder is defined by what it leaves out: no irritants and no pore-cloggers. Titanium dioxide adds sun protection and helps conceal redness while allowing compromised skin to breathe.

THE NERVOUS SYSTEM FACIAL

The most powerful thing a therapist can do for skin may have nothing to do with devices or products, writes

Jo Casamento.

THE LIGHTS are low. The room is warm. A scent is chosen before the treatment even begins.

The client settles in – not onto a standard treatment bed, but into a space designed to quiet the body. Breathing slows. Shoulders drop. The noise of the outside world begins to fade.

Before a single product is applied, something important has already happened: the nervous system has shifted.

The idea sits at the heart of a growing movement in aesthetics where a new category of treatment is emerging – one that doesn’t just work on the skin but works with the body.

Enter the nervous system facial.

Teeghan Foy, founder of Project Skin on the Gold Coast, describes this transition as the missing piece of the puzzle.

ʻChronic stress is one of the most underestimated drivers of skin dysfunction that I see in clinic,’ she says. ʻWhen cortisol stays elevated, it drives systemic inflammation, disrupts the skin barrier, increases sebum production, and slows cell repair.’

The result is a frustrated client doing everything ʻright’ – investing in treatments, using active skincare – yet still not seeing results.

Teeghan Foy

Words: Jo Casamento

| Photography: Supplied/iStock

ʻIf the stress response is constantly firing, the skin is essentially in survival mode. It can’t prioritise repair.’

This is where the nervous system facial differs from traditional approaches. It’s not simply about layering treatments – it’s about shifting the state of the body in which those treatments are delivered.

ʻThere’s strong evidence now around the skin–brain axis,’ says Teeghan. ʻThe way psychological stress directly communicates with the skin through neuropeptides and inflammatory pathways. The industry is finally catching up with what science has been telling us for years.’

‘IF THE STRESS RESPONSE IS CONSTANTLY FIRING, THE SKIN IS ESSENTIALLY IN SURVIVAL MODE. IT CAN’T PRIORITISE REPAIR.’

For Katina Jones, founder of Adelaide’s Seléne Spa, the connection is undeniable.

ʻThere is no home care routine or device that can override a depleted nervous system,’ she says. ʻTo achieve lasting change, we must address the root cause, not just the visible symptom.’

Drawing on Ayurvedic and naturopathic principles, Katina views the skin as a reflection of internal balance.

ʻWe see clients presenting with inflammation, sensitivity, premature ageing, impaired barrier function and persistent breakouts, often without realising chronic stress is a key driver. When the nervous system is dysregulated, the body prioritises survival over repair.

ʻAt Selene, we don’t treat the skin in isolation, we see it as an expression of the internal environment, including digestion, hormones and emotional wellbeing.’

So, what does a nervous system facial actually look like in practice?

It means designing treatments that actively guide the body into a parasympathetic (rest-and-repair) state.

At Project Skin, this begins with the environment.

ʻThe room is set – lighting is low and warm, we use essential oils that you personally choose, and the client settles onto our vibro sound bed, which uses sound frequency and gentle vibration to support nervous downregulation,’ says Teeghan.

From there, the treatment is deliberately paced.

ʻWe’re not rushing between steps. The touch, the rhythm, the temperature of products – all of it is considered. Clients often tell us it’s the first time they’ve switched off in weeks.’

These sensory inputs are not just aesthetic extras – they are functional.

At Seléne, the same thinking applies with signature scents, candlelight and sound to slow brainwave activity, all creating a sense of safety and calm.

ʻIn Ayurveda, the senses are a direct pathway to the nervous system,’ says Katina. ʻEvery sensory detail is designed to guide the body into stillness and allow the body to shift out of defence mode.’

For clinicians, the impact is both immediate and measurable.

ʻWhen a client arrives stressed, they will often have more redness, more visible reactivity, the skin looks tight and inflamed before we’ve done anything,’ says Teeghan.

ʻWhen they’re fully relaxed, the skin is visibly different. More luminous, calmer, more even in tone…it’s also the muscle tension in the face… when that releases, the face literally looks younger. It’s one of the most tangible things I can show people to demonstrate the stress-skin connection.’

She says when the body shifts into a parasympathetic state, circulation improves, inflammation reduces and the skin actually becomes more receptive to active ingredients and devices.

ʻSo, the relaxation isn’t separate from the result, it amplifies it.’

For many clinics, the shift doesn’t require a complete overhaul – but it does require intention.

Teeghan sees the pace and energy of the appointment itself a starting point. ʻThe client barely has time to settle before they’re in a bright room under clinical lighting. That activates the sympathetic nervous system from the first minute. The skin is already on guard.

ʻI think there’s an opportunity to look at the entire client journey, from the booking experience to the music in the waiting area and ask: is this creating safety? Because safety is where healing happens.’

For an industry traditionally focused on correction, the nervous system facial signals a shift toward regulation as a treatment objective. Because increasingly, the effectiveness of a treatment may depend not just on what is applied to the skin – but on the state the client is in when it happens. ■

Seléne Spa

Seléne Spa

Katina Jones

BEYOND THE SURFACE

Clinical hypnotherapist Jowee Komyshan explains why the future of aesthetic care begins in the subconscious.

WHEN A Client books a body contouring treatment at Beyond Beauty, the consultation doesn’t start with the body. It starts with questions: about habits, emotional patterns, the relationship between stress and skin, and the results people can actually sustain. It’s an approach that sets the Perth clinic apart, and one that its founder, licensed clinical hypnotherapist Jowee Komyshan, has spent years refining.

Your work sits at the intersection of aesthetics and hypnotherapy. What first led you to bring these two worlds together?

What first led me here was my work as a clinical hypnotherapist, specialising in emotional eating, anxiety and addictions. It gave me a deeper understanding of the many layers behind what people struggle with.

When a client comes in for body contouring and shares that they have uncontrollable sugar cravings or unhealthy eating habits, I know it’s not just about the body. True, lasting results come from addressing both — supporting the physical side while also working on mindset and behaviours.

Beyond Beauty and Stellar Hypnotherapy are sister clinics. How do the two work together in practice?

Hypnotherapy is often deep and emotionally focused, while beauty treatments are lighter, uplifting and energising. The contrast between the two creates a healthy balance for me, both personally and professionally.

During beauty consultations, we take a holistic approach. We look beyond the immediate physical concern to explore whether underlying habits or patterns might be contributing. When it feels appropriate, we gently discuss whether hypnotherapy could support their goals and, just as importantly, whether they’re open to that kind of work.

In hypnotherapy consultations for holistic weight loss, I only introduce beauty treatments once the client has done the inner work or completed their therapy program. I often use an analogy I love: ʻYou can’t outrun a bad diet.’ In other words, the best results come when both the mental and physical aspects are addressed together.

In many cases aesthetic treatments address the symptom rather than the underlying issue. How do you see the relationship between physical treatments and deeper behavioural change?

A good example of this is severe acne driven by stress. We had a client who came to us with significant breakouts across her back and upper body, which would consistently flare during periods of stress. The challenge was that she wasn’t just occasionally stressed — she was in a constant state of stress and didn’t yet have the tools to regulate her emotions or nervous system.

In cases like this, it’s important to recognise that the skin is often a reflection of what’s happening internally. By supporting the client in managing stress and emotional triggers, alongside targeted skin treatments, we’re able to create more meaningful, long-term results rather than temporary fixes.

Hypnotherapy is often misunderstood. How do you introduce the concept to clients who may feel sceptical at first?

It used to be misunderstood because of stage hypnosis and how it’s shown on TV. But stage hypnosis is purely for entertainment and very different from clinical hypnotherapy.

Clinical hypnotherapy is a real, evidence-based therapy that works with the subconscious mind to help with behaviour change, stress and emotional wellbeing. You’re not asleep or out of control — you’re actually aware the whole time, just in a more relaxed and focused state.

‘BECAUSE HER SELF-ESTEEM WAS STILL LOW, SHE DIDN’T FEEL SATISFIED OR HAPPY WITH THE OUTCOME.’

While it’s becoming more recognised here in Australia, hypnotherapy has been around for many years and is now gaining more trust as people see the results it can create.

It works well as a standalone therapy, but it can also be combined with other approaches. In my practice, I often collaborate with psychologists, naturopaths and social workers to support clients in a more holistic way.

You specialise in body contouring treatments. Do you find that addressing the psychological drivers behind weight or body image concerns can improve the results of contouring treatments?

Most definitely. When someone books for body contouring — or even surgery — but still has underlying drivers like stress eating, emotional eating or drinking, the results often aren’t sustainable. That’s because the root cause hasn’t been addressed; you’re only changing things externally.

For example, I had a client who struggled with emotional eating and drinking. During our work together, she lost 12 kilos. But because her self-esteem was still low, she didn’t feel satisfied or happy with the outcome. That’s when we shifted the focus to working on her self-worth as well.

In therapy, it’s rarely just one thing. There are layers — habits, emotions, beliefs and self-image — that need attention. When you take the time to address these properly, you build a strong foundation, and that’s what allows results to not only happen but actually last.

There’s a growing conversation about whether aesthetic practitioners are equipped — or even obligated — to consider a client’s emotional state, not just their appearance. Where do you stand on that?

Through conversations and consultations, there will be signs that give insight into a client’s mindset. If any general red flags come up, it’s important to approach it with honesty and kindness — sharing your professional opinion and guiding them through their options.

Our role isn’t just to provide treatments, but to act in the best interest of the client’s overall wellbeing. For example, if we suspect a case of body dysmorphia, we will not proceed with body contouring treatments. Instead, we would gently recommend more appropriate support.

At the end of the day, it’s about doing what’s right for the client, not just what’s requested. ■

Press

PLAY

What the industry is listening to right now.

ʻI’m currently listening to podcasts centred around two topics; ADHD and Menopause. Mel Robbins, Diary of a CEO and ADHD Chatter are three of my go-tos. I also love listening to various experts like Dr Mary Claire Haver and Janelle Booker. Can you guess my age and the fact that I have ADHD! For some light comic relief, my favourite is Conan Obrien Needs a Friend.’

LISA WILLIAMS, CO-FOUNDER, PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY SOLUTIONS

ʻIn an industry where opinion and “noise” is too often dressed up as science, The Physionic health and science podcast stands out for its rigorous, no-nonsense breakdown of the actual data. As a biological scientist, cosmetic chemist, and voice in the aesthetics industry, I deeply respect the way Nicolas Verhoeven lets the research speak for itself. No hype, no agenda, just science done properly.’

TERRI VINSON JONES, FOUNDER, SYNERGIE SKIN

ʻʻWisdom Talks with John Barter. John is a highly respected psychologist, mindfulness and meditation teacher. I met him several years ago when attending one of his courses. One of my favourite episodes is the Four V’s — Values, Virtues, Views, Vision. This teaching is about defining our relationships, exploring how our “doing” must align with our “being” and sense of self for ultimate contentment and long-lasting happiness.’

JULIE DAVIDSON, SALES MANAGER, PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY

ʻGloss Angeles, hosted by beauty journalists Kirbie Johnson and Sara Tan, is the beauty industry’s ʻedutainment’ podcast. They strike the right balance between chatty and investigative, giving you news updates without having to scroll.’

AMY HADLEY, CONTRIBUTOR, PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY

‘The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz is brutally honest in a way most business books aren’t. It normalises the struggle of leadership, provides practical frameworks you can actually use, and reminds you that the difficulty you’re feeling isn’t a sign of failure — it’s just part of the job.’

MATT WILLIAMS, CO-FOUNDER, PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY SOLUTIONS

ʻThe Climb by Cherie Clonan from The Digital Picnic. It’s giving “a business podcast for people who are tired of business podcasts”. Think neurodivergent leadership, decisionmaking, and the kind of brutal honesty about growth that most founders only share with their therapist. Or their dog.’

RACHEL MEDLOCK, CONTRIBUTOR, PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY

ʻStyle-ish is always in my ears on the Wednesday coffee run. It sits at the intersection of fashion, beauty and brand, so it’s adjacent to my world without feeling like work. I love the business lens delivered like a chat with a girlfriend. Recent episodes I’ve enjoyed: indie beauty brands cracking international markets, SheerLuxe’s acquisition and the peptide hype debate.’

ERIN BERRYMAN, ACTING EDITOR, PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY

‘YOU COME AWAY UNDERSTANDING NOT JUST WHAT’S HAPPENING IN BEAUTY, BUT WHY.’

ʻMore analysis than beauty, the Barefaced podcast approaches beauty as an industry, not just a category. It layers commercial strategy, brand building and market dynamics with a level of clarity and depth that’s rarely articulated. You come away understanding not just what’s happening in beauty, but why.’

MARIA ENNA-COCCIOLONE, CEO AND FOUNDER, INSKINCOSMEDICS

UP NEXT: ISSUE 03

THE POWERHOUSE ISSUE + BEAUTY EXPO SPECIAL

NOW BOOKING ADVERTISING AND PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Winter is peak treatment season, and the clinics setting the pace are powered by the industry’s most advanced technology and most ambitious leaders.

From high-performance devices and nextgeneration skin science to the business minds shaping the industry’s future, The Powerhouse Issue spotlights the brands, innovators and experts driving the second half of 2026.

But it’s not just about the products dominating the market. This issue looks behind the scenes at the powerhouses building the industry itself — the founders rewriting categories, the distributors scaling brands across the region, the clinic owners with month-long waitlists, and the educators shaping the next generation of talent.

• High-performance devices and treatment technologies delivering powerful in-clinic outcomes

• Advanced skincare and cosmeceutical brands pushing the boundaries of skin science

• Founders, distributors and industry leaders shaping the business of aesthetics

• Educators and experts raising the standard of professional knowledge and training

For brands grounded in credibility and committed to raising the bar, this is the issue to be in.

Live dates: July-September

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15-16 AUG 2026

ICC SYDNEY

DARLING HARBOUR

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The beauty industry comes to life at Australia’s largest professional beauty event. Experience innovative beauty and artistry like never before at Beauty Expo Australia

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