Professional Beauty ISSUE-3 2025

SUCCESS, SACRIFICE AND PUTTING SALONS FIRST

MARIA ENNA-COCCIOLONE CELEBRATES 40 YEARS

NEO-SERUM

The 1st skincare product formulated with cyclitols from the leaves of Ginkgo Biloba, an age-old tree with longevity powers.

2 TIMES FASTER* E ect on 3 levels of cellular regeneration

Transforming Skin Clinics Across Australia & New Zealand

The next generation of non-invasive skin health technology - built for results, driven by demand.

• Endorsed by Global Industry Opinion Leaders

• Over 35,000 Devices Sold Worldwide

• Proven Results & Client Satisfaction

• Backed by Science, Innovation & Marketing Support

Smooth Lines with the Power of Pep9™

Fewer Wrinkles. Firmer Skin. Instant Glow.

In a Consumer Perception Study, immediately after 1 treatment**

100% Reported an improvement in the appearance of skin firmness

96% Reported an improvement in skin glow

93% Said skin looked tighter, smoother, and felt deeply hydrated

* Based on Corneometer, Vapometer, Cutometer, and 3D imaging measurements of 30 participants before and 24 hours after a Hydrafacial Platinum treatment in a clinical study. Instant results are measured 30 minutes after treatment. Individual results may vary.

** Based on consumer perception study with 30 participants 30 minutes after a Hydrafacial Platinum treatment.

Visit us at ooth G109! Sydney Beauty xpo 1 - 1 August th th

Somecall o ur cream s ‘fluffy’

Our Rina zell ac teal

Active Substance C ream improved the a ppearance of skin showin si ns of rosacea . n 7 days!

Biomime tic skin ba rrier repair

Call i t fluffy. e call i t powerful.

Own Your Skin, QLD

PUBLISHER

BHA MEDIA

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Simon Grover

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Hannah Gay hgay@intermedia.com.au

NATIONAL

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Julie Davidson

jdavidson@intermedia.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Ryan Vizcarra

Katy Brack

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jacqui Cooper

SUBSCRIPTIONS subscriptions@intermedia.com.au Professional Beauty magazine is published by BHA MEDIA ABN 23142047943

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SUBSCRIPTION RATES

1yr (4 issues)

12 Editor’s Letter

Beauty Bites 20 The PB Archives

26 Forecast: Evidence over hype 28 Forecast: Biohacking

30 Cover Story: INSKIN COSMEDICS

EDUCATION

Consultations 38 That Skin Clinic

BUSINESS

46 Defining luxury beauty 50 ABIC 52 Project: Salon

56 Host a VIP event

58 Retail treatment rooms

BEAUTY

64 Shop the Shoot: Around the world

70 No right formula 74 Acne treatment

76 Compensation ceiling

78 Tried-and-Tested 80 Biomimetic skincare 82 Tech: Skin rejuvenation

Korean head spa

Hair restoration 90 Ingestible ingredients

Winter tanning

98 Scar camouflage

100 Meet Guiya Minerals

102 Private nail tech

103 Japanese manicure 104 Brow franchising

106 How to upsell waxing

110 Escape to DDTA

113 Out & About

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

As I sit down to write this issue’s Editor’s Letter, it’s exactly one month out until Beauty Expo 2025 opens its doors. The industry event of the year is, no doubt, a not-to-bemissed weekend for many of us. From skincare to technology, lashes to tanning, there’s always something to see and learn. Not to mention the education, networking and special deals on offer!

It has also been a neat 12 months since I first took on the role of Editor-in-Chief with Professional Beauty, the absolute highlight of my working life. I’ve had the pleasure of sitting down with some of the industry’s best-known figures (take this issue’s cover star, Maria Enna-Cocciolone, as an example). I’ve spent hours trawling through archived pages of our esteemed magazine and website, dating back to the industry’s infancy for our PB Archives series. I’ve reconnected with brands, distributors, and training institutions from across the country who had been (and oftentimes remain) Australian beauty movers-and-shakers leading into the 21st century. It’s been an incredible ride, thus far.

For PB’s third issue of the year, we spotlight the trends creating ripples throughout the industry - from biohacking to head spas,

EDITOR’S PICKS

Creamy, long-wearing, and in the perfect beige-pink shade, I can’t get enough of Issada’s Mineral Lip Crayon in Content. Issada 07 3904 2288.

LYCON’s Pinkini Intimate Exfoliant should feature on every salon’s retail wall (and in every client’s bathroom!) A must-have. LYCON Cosmetics Australia 07 3004 6200.

scar camouflage tattooing to the Japanese manicure. We consider the luxury beauty landscape, and what defines it in 2025 (from page 46). We visit the beauty retailers capitalising on the growing demand for in-store experiences (from page 58). And we open the lid on compensation, and the career paths skin therapists can take beyond the salon floor (from page 76).

Speaking of Maria Enna-Cocciolone, don’t miss my one-on-one with the woman behind INSKIN COSMEDICS (from page 30). We laughed, we cried, and we reflected on her four admirable decades dominating the Australian professional beauty landscape.

I will be taking a brief hiatus until 2026, ready to welcome my second baby boy into the world this September. I can’t stay away for too long, however - this industry is simply too exciting to be a part of! See you at Expo, beauties!

Hannah Gay, Editor-in-Chief

My skin has cherished my daily misting of dermaviduals’ Süüsmoon Lotion N this winter! I can’t get enough. Derma Aesthetics 1300 420 223

Photography: Joseph G Media/Supplied

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B E AUTY BIT E S

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

1.

Isabella Loneragan launches The Skinformé Academy

Esteemed educator, clinic owner and skincare specialist, Isabella Loneragan has unveiled her latest training offering: The Skinformé Academy. The platform will serve as an expansion of her acclaimed Art of Facial Massage courses. Offering both in-person and online education, Isabella aims to elevate facial massage education by teaching handson techniques and aesthetic business mastery to empower professionals – from seasoned experts to aspiring beginners. Registrations are now open via www.skinformeacademy.com.

2.

Balearic Beauty jumps on peel-off lip liner stain trend

Founder Jade Cook and the team behind Balearic Beauty have released a peel-off lip liner stain, available in three shades: Island Girl, Cutesy, and Dolce. The viral makeup trend, which promises a long-lasting result on the lips, saw Balearic Beauty release its own vegan and cruelty-free version. The stain contains nourishing hyaluronic acid and Vitamin E for a plump, hydrated finish. Available now to wholesale in salons and via professional makeup artists. Visit www.balearicbeauty.com to learn more.

3.

Men spotlighted in latest Pinterest report Pinterest has released its first Evolution of Men report - a global look at how Gen Z and Millennial men are engaging with the platform. With men now making up over a third of Pinterest’s global audience, the data reveals insights into male search preferences when it comes to categories ranging from beauty to wellness, fitness to fashion. The site reported a sharp growth in searches for: Men’s facials (+230%), Male nail art designs (+115%), Male makeup (+50%), Healthy hair routines (+45%), and Sea salt spray (+115%).

Words:

Corneotherapeutic SPF.

BizCover awarded for organisational success

Australian small business insurer BizCover has received top honours at Deloitte Australia’s 2024 Best Managed Companies awards. The company - which services local beauty salons for their insurance needs - was named one of six top-performing private Australian businesses, recognised as both a ‘key innovator’ and ‘major contributor’ to local industries. Trusted by over 270,000 small businesses, BizCover makes it easy for salons to compare quotes, buy online, and get instant cover in just minutes by visiting www.bizcover.com.au.

DLUX PRO lands in Australia

The latest in lash and brow enhancement technology has arrived, direct from Korea.

DLUX Professional’s patented range is currently available in 42 countries and adheres to ISO-Certified Korean manufacturing guarantees. Included in the range are lash extensions, a lash lift system, brow lamination and tint kits, pro tools and retail supplies. Local training is also available to interested salon stockists. Follow the DLUX PRO movement on Instagram at www.instagram.com/ dluxpro_australia. 5.

Tribe Skincare is now Senne Skin

Salon-stocked Tribe Skincare has taken on a new identity as Senne Skin, undergoing a total branding and formulation overhaul. Senne Skin is targeted toward sensitive skin users, with a product line that is free of essential oils and fragrances. The range heroes everyday skincare solutions, including a series of active-rich serums retailing at just $65 each. The brand remains Australian owned, with all products developed and manufactured in New Zealand. To learn more, contact Vitality Brands on hello@senneskin.com.au.

Visit us at booth G109! Sydney Beauty Expo 16 - 17 August th th

Some call our creams ‘fluffy’

This is the result of

Dr. Spiller Cellular Day

Cream, visibly improving

the appearance of this

cosmeceutical-damaged

skin.

Biomimetic skin barrier repair.

Call it fluffy. We call it powerful.

Natural Beauty Bar, NSW

7.

Tamara Reid launches personal branding course

Beauty industry strategist, Tamara Reid has launched Build it, Brand it, Bank it - a six-week online course designed to support beauty professionals in their personal branding journeys. According to Tamara, Build it, Brand it, Bank it is suitable for talented professionals who are “so good at the doing but stuck on how to show up, speak out, and get paid for it”. The course consists of six modules, 20 lessons, and over seven hours of audio and video content. Visit www.insideindustry.co to sign up.

9.

Searches for hyperpigmentation on the up

According to recent data collected by beauty and wellness marketplace, Fresha, ‘hyperpigmentation’ carried the highest average monthly search volume of nearly 30 common skin concerns. The study, which examined data from Google Keyword Planner, saw the condition searched for 141,858 times per month. Rosacea and Dermatitis followed closely, accruing 113,958 and 111,937 monthly searches respectively.

DNA repair, powered by PDRN PDRN (or PolyDeoxyRiboNucleotide) is the ingredient high on the minds of skin therapists in 2025. Juliette Armand is at the forefront of product innovation championing PDRN, most recently releasing Ameson PDRN 2%. The biologically active DNA compound is contained within professional-only vials to complement a range of skin rejuvenation treatments, including microneedling. The product is indicated for expression lines, deep wrinkles, scars and marks, loose skin, volume loss and photoaging. A suite of retail products containing PDRN are also on offer to further enhance in-salon results at home. Visit www.juliettearmand.com.au for more.

MUKTI unveils certified organic tinted SPF Australian skincare and wellness brand, MUKTI Organics is set to release its Daily Moisturiser Solar Veil SPF30 this September - a unique mineral formulation accredited as certified COSMOS organic. The product, which contains non-nano 22% zinc oxide and science-backed bioactive ingredients, is tested to ISO 24444:2020, is reef-safe, and eco-conscious with no synthetic UV filters, silicones, or added fragrance. To learn more, visit www.muktiorganics.com.

THE PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY ARCHIVES

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

2011

● The Global Beauty Group launches, specialising in providing aesthetic and medicalgrade technology to salons, spas, and clinics across Australia and New Zealand.

● Zeltiq’s CoolSculpting cryolipolysis device is approved in 46 countries worldwide; Australia among the early markets.

● dermaviduals is introduced to the Australian market by Derma Aesthetics.

● Dermalogica launches FITE (Financial Independence Through Entrepreneurship) program to empower women in business and turn gender inequality around.

● Eco Tan makes Australian history, becoming the first and only certified organic spray tan

in the country by the Organic Food Chain (OFC).

● Phyt’s introduces the world’s first documented 100% natural, plant-derived hyaluronic acid product in the form of a cleanser.

● Wholesale hair and beauty supply website, Salonshop Online launches with a reported 7000 professional products and salon supplies added daily.

● INIKA Organic expands, opening eleven makeup counters in Myer department stores across Australia under a strategic plan by then distributor, True Solutions International.

● Influencer culture emerges as Australia hosts its first-ever beauty blogging conference, The Australian Beauty Bloggers Weekend.

2012

● The Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australia (CPSA) reveals Australians spent an estimated $773.6 million on non- and minimally invasive treatments from 2011 to 2012 - a 20% increase YOY.

● A high-profile lawsuit in WA (by a client burned during laser hair removal) highlights the dangers of unqualified operators, prompting industry and medical bodies to demand stricter safety regulations.

● The Ella Baché College of Skin and Beauty Therapy gains approval as a VET FEE-Help provider by the Australian Government.

● Founded by David McConnell, HUB Makeup Supplies (now TEMPTU Pro Australia) expands into Sydney, following the opening of stores in Melbourne, Brisbane, and online.

● Injectables supplier Merz Aesthetics announces an Australiabased team, launching a new dermal filler called Radiesse.

● The Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science

(AACDS) announces availability of VET FEE-Help on select, nationally-accredited qualifications, such as the Advanced Diploma of Cosmetic Dermal Science (52320).

● The market for laser tattoo removal booms, reports the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia (CPSA), whose members cite a 15-20% increase in requests for the procedure since 2009.

● Kline + Company reports a 25%+ increase YOY in global sales of professional nail care products.

● National Salon Supplies expands its national network via 40 wholesale and distribution franchise stores.

● Advanced Skin Technology announces partnership with PCA Skin, a leading healthcare

●

company based out of the USA.

Curtis Collection by Victoria launches under Australian makeup artist, Victoria Curtis.

2013

● An annual Environmental Scan by Service Skills Australia finds there to be approximately 23,000 beauty therapists in Australia, with therapist employment figures projected to grow by 17% in five years.

● A survey by CPSA finds 11%, or 2.5 million Australians, say they’ve had some form of anti-ageing aesthetic procedure, including anti-wrinkle injections. The most common treatments include microdermabrasion, laser or IPL hair removal, chemical peels, and anti-wrinkle treatments, with 55% of respondents spending $1,000 on these procedures in the last year.

● Guinot Institut Paris celebrates 50 years, founded by French Biochemist Rene Guinot in 1963. The brand is recognised for introducing professional skincare treatments based on deep cleansing, supplying skincare treatments to Parisian ladies in beauty salons.

● The world’s first picosecond aesthetic laser, Cynosure PicoSure, launches globally in early 2013, arriving in Australia as the first picosecond laser for tattoo removal and skin rejuvenation.

● The use of platelet rich plasma (or PRP

2014

● China’s Food and Drug Administration (CFDA) implements a policy removing the mandatory animal testing requirement for domestically produced, non-special use cosmetics.

● Australian professional skincare brands, including Synergie Skin and Ultraceuticals, lead in gaining cruelty-free accreditations.

● Laser Clinics Australia goes national, opening clinics beyond NSW.

therapy) is noted to be revolutionising the way we look at anti-ageing, according to noted Australian laser, skin and hair restoration specialist, Dr Rhett Bosnich.

● Dermaceutic Laboratoire

- the French medicalgrade skincare brandlaunches in Australia and quickly spreads to 600+ clinics across Australia and NZ.

● Australian brand, Blync Lashes rebrands to ModelRock Lashes in order to ‘stamp authority’ within their target market.

● The Spa & Beauty Guide to Safety & Hygiene is released, serving as an essential resource for salon owners and beauticians Australia-wide.

● Bold, saturated colours and metallic polishes donned the nails of models at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia.

● Professional Beauty its first Innovation Forum in Sydney, featuring former Publisher, Kirien Withers as the event’s keynote speaker.

● Cynosure releases the Elite+ dualwavelength laser (755nm Alexandrite + 1064nm Nd:YAG) as an upgrade to its Elite platform.

● Australian distributor, Advanced Skin Technology (AST) celebrates 20 years of operation under the directorship of Trish Winchester.

● BLC Cosmetics brings Cirépil Perron Rigot French waxing solutions to the Australian market.

● Skin O2 secures an export deal in six regions - United Arab Emirates, Thailand, India, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Dubai/Abu Dhabi - to the value of $AU9 million.

● Professional brands including asap skincare, DermaQuest, Naked Tan and Solaire undergo visual rebrands

● Cosmetic tattooing technique, feather touch eyebrows, booms in popularity. The new treatment offering would involve drawing each individual hair onto the client’s brows until the desired fullness and shape is achieved.

● Glamazon (now Urban Company) launches as a game-changing beauty app developed by Lauren Silvers to help clients book and pay for appointments via their smartphone.

● Global beauty retail giant Sephora opens its first Australian store on Sydney’s Pitt Street Mall in December 2014. ➤

2015

● On 1 January 2015, commercial tanning salons (aka solariums) are officially banned in all Australian states. Salon and clinic owners increasingly turn to spray tans, self-tan retail products and sunless bronzing services, reinforcing Australia’s shift toward UV-free alternatives for bronzed skin.

● The Sydney International Spa and Beauty Expo is rebranded to Beauty Expo Australia, featuring new additions like Nailympia and the Face2Face Makeup Awards.

● The first, inaugural Brisbane Hair and Beauty Expo is held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre to 4,000 visitors.

● The Australian launch of Syneron-Candela’s PicoWay laser takes place, a dualwavelength picosecond platform (1064nm & 532nm) for tattoo removal and pigmented lesions.

● Candela introduces the PicoWay Resolve fractionated handpiece in 2015, making it the first

picosecond laser with a fractional lens for skin rejuvenation.

● Dermalux LED system makes its Australian debut, distributed by Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS).

● Ultraformer III launches as a versatile face, neck and body tightening system, distributed by Cryomed.

● BLC Cosmetics launches Fusion Meso, an international brand specialising in fractional and no-needle meso treatments, into the Australian market.

● Unilever acquires Dermalogica, the world’s leading professional skincare brand. The buyout (part of Unilever’s $1.3 billion spree on prestige brands in 2015) signalled the lucrative growth of the professional skincare sector.

2016

● A Senate inquiry urges an immediate ban on plastic microbeads in cosmetics due to marine pollution. The Australian Government backs a voluntary industry phase-out and by 2018, virtually all major brands in Australia had removed microbeads from rinse-off scrubs and cleansers.

● A 2016 Professional Beauty Industry Survey reveals 28% of salons are based out of the home,

37% said attracting new clients is their biggest concern, and skincare is the primary focus for 58% of businesses.

● By 2016 Australians are spending over $1 billion annually on nonor minimally invasive cosmetic procedures.

● Australian Skin Clinics launches The Advanced Skills Academy, a cutting-edge education facility based on the Gold Coast, which offers courses nationwide.

● Australia’s wellness spa sector hits a milestone as endota spa grows to 100 spa locations.

● GINGER&ME, the first Australian neurocosmedics mindfulness brand launches. Most notably with its signature mindfulness facial - a first of its kind.

● ‘Contouring’ and ‘strobing’ become in-demand makeup practices.

● Mintel predicts that by 2026, the top four beauty trends will

● Sustainable Salons is established by co-founders Paul Frasca and Ewelina Soroko. The company has since diverted 2 million kilograms of salon waste from landfills, and contributed more than 394,000 meals to those in need through partnerships with OzHarvest and KiwiHarvest.

● Makeup inspired by ‘light’ and ‘freedom’ is the look of the moment, according to MAC regional makeup directors, Vimi Joshi and Miriam Khairallahto.

● The latest craze in skincare? Micellar water. 2015 saw professional brands release the product type in droves.

include: technology that tracks our skin and hair status, water as a luxury ingredient to be limited from beauty products, an increase in positive energy claims, and a rise in DIY beauty offerings.

● Asia Pacific is on track to become the world’s leading innovator in the global beauty and personal care market, according to Mintel, with 37% of global beauty and personal care (BPC) launches with anti-ageing claims coming out of Asia Pacific. ➤

ü Honest beauty, simple routines and quality skin care

ü Innovative plant-based formulas and scientifically proven ingredients

ü High quality Vitamins, Bio-Derived Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol and anti-ageing Centella

ü High water-binding technology for ultimate hydration and performance

2017

● Skincare noted to be the fastest growing category in the US’s $17.7 billion prestige beauty market, according to The NPD Group.

● Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) is classified as a reproductive toxicant and added to Schedule 10 of the Poisons Standard in 2017, effectively banning its use in cosmetics in Australia.

● The Therapeutic Goods Association warns Australian cosmetic/beauty clinics that it is illegal to advertise services that use Schedule 4 (prescription-only) substances such as Botox, Restylane, Juvederm and Dysport.

● Pharma giant Allergan acquires Zeltiq Aesthetics (CoolSculpting’s maker) for $2.47 billion.

● Global investment firm Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co (KKR) acquires a majority stake in Laser Clinics Australia (LCA) in late 2017 for approximately $650 million.

● Australian Skin Clinics merges with Ella Rouge. The Hair and Beauty Group (owner of Hairhouse Warehouse) acquires ASC and simultaneously absorbs the struggling Ella Rouge Skin Clinics network.

● Debbie Dickson announces the launch of ingestible brand, Regul8 after six years in production.

2018

● Pinterest names key beauty trends for 2018 to include: cleansing oil (saves up +555%), lip tint (saves up +414%), complexion matching (saves up +378%), and derma roller (saves up +345%).

● Australian Pharmaceutical Industries (API), the parent of Priceline Pharmacy, buys Clear Skincare Clinics for $127.4 million. This features a 50.1% controlling stake in the 42-location franchises and 100% of its product arm, now stocked in Priceline.

● Encore Beauty commences the distribution of Omum and Vita Liberata.

● Professional Beauty Solutions (PBS) becomes the official distributor for Pure Fiji in Australia.

● American skincare brand, Murad arrives in Australia.

● Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty line launches globally, debuting a groundbreaking 40 foundation shades. This pushes many pro and retail brands in Australia to broaden their complexion shade offerings.

● The nail polish market is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 9.5% over next seven years, according to Grand View Research, largely due to the “growing popularity of nail designs among the young population”.

● The creators of the YouCam Makeup app find Millennial Pink to be the world’s most popular lipstick shade after looking at data shared by the app’s 280 million users.

● Benefit Australia takes out the Guinness World Records title for the most eyebrow waxes performed in eight hours by a team. Ten Benefit brow experts waxed 435 brows to smash the previous world record of 382 brows.

● The Australian Tax Office (ATO) continues to target the cash economy this year, focusing on improving compliance among high risk industries for several years with beauty salons firmly in its sights. ATO assistant commissioner Matthew Bambrick says the office has been focusing on improving compliance among high risk industries for several years, and beauty salons were one of those focus industries as the office has “observed a high incidence of risk factors such as advertising as cash-only”.

● Research and Market’s report on the global beauty supplements’ market predicts it will grow by 9.5% a year to reach US$7.1 million by 2023.

● Melbourne’s Box Hill Institute becomes the first TAFE institute

GRAB A COPY OF PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY ISSUE 04 2025 FOR A LOOK BACK AT THE INDUSTRY FROM 2019 TO 2025 (AND BEYOND!), IN SALONS AND ONLINE NOVEMBER 2025.

in Australia to offer its beauty graduates the opportunity to gain international qualifications via The International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC).

● Skinstitut celebrates its 10th anniversary with a record-breaking “40% growth in year-on-year sales”, according to then General Manager, Nicola Kropach.

● Dermaplaning begins gathering momentum as a common, salon-led treatment across the country.

● Kim Kardashian is behind the increase in demand of stretchmark removal treatments, after revealing she’d had some of hers “lasered off”.

● Bio Beauty Concepts, the Australian distributor of Bio Sculpture gel nails, launches Nouveau Lashes at Beauty Expo Australia. ■

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Anchored in Isabella’s guiding philosophy that transformational results and emotional connection leads to lifelong client loyalty, The Skinformé Academy is where

Are you ready to become a highly sought-after, fully booked beauty therapist? INTRODUCING skinformeacademy.com info@skinformeacademy.com by

EVIDENCE OVER HYPE

A new report reveals why beauty and wellness brands must prove, not just promise.

NOT LONG ago, great branding was enough to win people over in the beauty and wellness space. A sleek logo, clever copy, and the right celebrities could send products flying off the shelves. But things have changed. Today’s shoppers do their homework! They ask questions, compare options, and expect proof that the product works.

A new report from Citruslabs, a leading global CRO for consumer brands, reveals just how far the needle has shifted. Across both Australia and the U.S., consumers are prioritising clinically validated products over those that simply sound good. In fact, 75% of Australians and 92% of Americans say they actively prefer wellness products backed by clinical data.

This is a clear signal to beauty and wellness brands that want to grow, especially those with global ambitions, that expectations are shifting.

The Rise of the Evidence-First Consumer

What defines a “good” wellness product in 2025? According to the data, it’s not just natural ingredients, aesthetic packaging, or glowing reviews. It’s proof it works.

Citruslabs surveyed over 1,000 consumers in Australia and the U.S. and found that only 45% trust general product claims, but 78% trust those supported by scientific studies or clinical research. For beauty brands, this trust gap has serious implications. Generic claims like “reduces redness” or “improves skin texture” are no longer compelling without visible, validated real-world data to back them.

It’s not enough to say what your product does anymore. Modern consumers want to know the proof behind it. They want evidence that your product actually works.

From Clean to Credible: Australia’s Unique Advantage

Australian beauty and wellness brands already have a strong foundation. They’re known for high-quality, ethical formulations, often prioritising clean ingredients, sustainability, and functional performance. But as the category becomes more competitive, “clean” is no longer a differentiator. Credibility is.

And this is where Australian brands have a golden opportunity: by pairing their “clean and natural” positioning with rigorous clinical evidence, they can redefine what premium looks like, locally and globally.

As Citruslabs CEO Susanne Mitschke puts it, “success abroad starts with credibility at home. Clinical validation not only builds trust locally, it creates a foundation for scaling internationally in a way that’s compliant, compelling, and credible.”

Why Scientific Proof is a Beauty Brand’s Best Asset

Beyond marketing, scientific validation is a strategic growth tool:

• It builds trust with consumers, especially in saturated beauty categories.

• It improves ROI, with tested claims performing better in advertising and on packaging.

• It opens doors to retailers, investors, and earned media.

• It ensures compliance, especially when expanding into the U.S. or EU markets. Citruslabs’ report also highlights that numerical claims (e.g., “87% saw smoother skin in 4 weeks”) are more persuasive when they fall within believable ranges, typically between 70% and 90%. Consumers respond best to science that feels both specific and realistic.

Validation That Investors Value

Clinical validation doesn’t just build consumer trust, it signals credibility to investors. As Carolyn Simmons, former partner at Melitas Ventures shares in the Citruslabs report, “brands with credible clinical evidence stand out immediately in a due diligence process.” In a sea of bold claims, data-backed results help founders earn investor confidence, de-risk funding decisions, and stand out in U.S. markets. Here is how we see it: marketing gets the attention. Strong data and evidence give you an edge in your next fundraising round.

What This Means for Australian Brands Entering the U.S.

The United States is still the largest and most competitive wellness market in the world. By 2027, it will account for over a third of global wellness spending, making it a natural next step for ambitious Australian brands.

But expansion isn’t as simple as translating marketing materials. Brands need to:

1. Understand U.S. regulations (FDA and FTC requirements differ from TGA and FSANZ).

2. Avoid overpromising, especially with claims like “clinically proven” or “reduces wrinkles,” unless supported by compliant, thirdparty data.

3. Present results transparently, ideally through consumer-friendly formats like infographics, white papers, packaging seals, and dedicated “science” pages.

Brands like Mānuka Health, SumaNurica, Love Wellness, Mario Badescu, and Supergut, who partner with Citruslabs, are already doing this. They use third-party research not just for internal confidence, but to build external credibility across every touchpoint: from online and retail to investor decks.

“MARKETING GETS THE ATTENTION. STRONG DATA AND EVIDENCE GIVE YOU AN EDGE IN YOUR NEXT FUNDRAISING ROUND.”

The Future of Beauty is Evidence-Led

To clarify, incorporating clinical validation isn’t about turning every beauty product into a pharmaceutical. Rather, it’s about aligning with modern consumers. They’re sharp, they ask questions, and they want products they can trust from a safety and efficacy standpoint.

And the reality is that clinical trials and realworld evidence is no longer reserved for the biggest players. It’s a scalable, accessible path to stand out, whether you’re launching your first product locally in Australia, or scaling to retail shelves in the United States or elsewhere.

And as the report shows, the impact of that validation extends beyond conversion rates. It builds a brand’s reputation, resilience, and readiness to compete on a global scale.

Evidence that lasts

Wellness shoppers have changed, and brands need to keep up. Big promises are out, evidence is in. The brands that will shape the future of beauty and wellness are the ones that can prove their products actually work. Either with a clinical trial, a consumer perception study, or a real-world evidence study. As the data shows, hype fades, evidence lasts. Read the full report at www.citruslabs.com/australia-industry-report.

Citruslabs is a contract research organisation (CRO) that partners with consumer brands to bring science into their storytelling. We make clinical and consumer research more accessible, helping brands run studies that validate their products and turn results into meaningful, marketing-ready claims. ■

BREAKING DOWN THE BUZZ:

What is Biohacking?

Optimising physical and mental wellbeing comes down to understanding how our bodies work at a cellular level. Kristie Lau-Adams discovers why the buzzword of 2025 demands our attention.

Photography: iStock/CoffeeAndMilk

“BIOHACKING EMPOWERS PEOPLE TO FEEL BETTER, THINK CLEARER, AND AGE SLOWER.”

aims to improve a person’s biological makeup for greater health, performance and wellbeing.

According to statistics released by Grand View Research in the United States, Australia is showing significant interest in the trend. Our local biohacking market reportedly attracted a revenue of $US657.4 million ($AU990 million) in 2024 and that figure is expected to reach $US1,866 million ($AU2,817.66 million) by 2030. It’s a movement that Mick Safron, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of one of the world’s leading biohacking platforms Biohackers World, believes will forever change the global faces of beauty and wellness. “Think of it as taking control of your biology, rather than leaving it to chance,” Mick says. “Biohacking empowers people to feel better, think clearer, and age slower.”

The former Facebook and Google tech expert, who worked in Silicon Valley before launching his company in 2019, argues that traditional healthcare is outdated due to its reactive offering. “People are sick of waiting until something breaks - they want to feel good now and stay sharp longer,” he explains. “Add the rise of wearables, AI, and functional medicine, and you’ve got a perfect storm for the biohacking movement to go mainstream. It’s become the bridge between science, wellness, and self-care.”

Mick noted that the COVID-19 pandemic did colossal things for biohacking as heightened focus on mental health and immunity fundamentally changed so many of us. “Aussie early adopters, from Bondi to Byron Bay, started looking into tools like cold plunges, NAD+ drips, breathwork, and mitochondrial support,” Mick says. “Now, you’ll find biohackers across Sydney and Melbourne using smart rings, fasting apps, and even nootropics (chemical substances used to improve cognitive function) daily.”

Clinic owners and beauty brands, particularly those focused on skincare, have also taken the core principles of biohacking under their wings. Rachael Stephens is the Chief Executive Officer of Circadia Australia, which serves as the Australian distributor for US-born skincare brand Circadia and facilities professional training. She says the trend is shifting business owners’ perspective on skin health, which has the potential to overhaul client offerings. “As therapists, we’re in a unique position to bridge the gap between science and self-care,” Rachael explains. “Clinics could consider retailing wearables and offering packages based on inclusive health. At Circadia, we continually explore this space and integrate some of the latest ingredient technology to support the pursuit of optimal skin health.”

While this avenue may feel overwhelming to some, Rachael underscores how crucial a tool biohacking could prove to one’s business. “By embracing this shift toward personalised, rhythm-aligned, and holistic strategies, we can help our clients not only look better but feel better,” she says. “This is the future of aesthetics: one where education, science, and self-care intersect.”

IN A robust market of promised enhancements, science-backed products and services have always cut through. Tested formulations and proven treatments deserve to outwit the cleverest of marketing or anecdotal offerings, maximising value while minimising unpredictable outcomes. Over the past decade, however, Australia’s beauty and wellness industries have come to embrace what can only be described as science on steroids: biohacking.

A collective term used for self-imposed lifestyle changes based on technological advancements and data collection, biohacking is sometimes referred to as “garage biology” due to its do-it-yourself nature. Spanning small adjustments, such as soaking up increased morning sunlight, and much larger actions, like undergoing DNA testing, biohacking

Mick agrees that skincare is seeing profound momentum within the Australian biohacking market, pinpointing supplements including collagen peptides, microbiome care including prebiotic and probiotic treatments, and red light therapy as extremely popular microtrends.

Pushing beyond our shores, biohacking has even infiltrated Australian holiday choices, providing inspiration for international wellness retreats including Thailand’s RAKxa. While the award-winning escape frames its ethos around longevity, a representative for the brand agrees that the future of wellness is based on treating root causes accentuated through the rise of biohacking. “We believe true wellbeing comes from the thoughtful combination of advanced medical science with ancient healing wisdom,” a spokesperson says. “This union of precision-based medicine with time-tested healing allows us to offer a more complete, human-centered path to longevity, one that enhances health in the present while supporting wellbeing far into the future.”

It’s a belief that Mick has built his business upon and wholeheartedly echoes. “It’s no longer just about spa days or green juices,” he says. “It’s about taking full responsibility for how we age, heal, and thrive.” ■

THE INIMITABLE Maria Enna-Cocciolone

Celebrating 40 years in the industry and 15 years since launching her first cosmedical skincare brand, O COSMEDICS, Hannah Gay sat down with the CEO & Founder of INSKIN COSMEDICS to talk success, sacrifice and her salon-first approach.

Few figures in the Australian beauty industry are as revered as Maria Enna-Cocciolone.

From leading one of the country’s most established and far-reaching distribution companies, INSKIN COSMEDICS, to her unwavering industry advocacy, Maria commands respect blanketed by a warmth felt through her charming Italian conversationalism. She has a way of lighting up every room she enters.

Maria has spent nearly a lifetime embodying this industry. Starting work as a humble beauty therapist in 1980s Australia, the industry here was in its infancy. “It does not feel like 40 years… I don’t feel old enough!” Maria quips, joining me for a one-on-one at her Greater Western Sydney headquarters. “It’s so nice to be loving something 40 years down the track, as much as when I made the decision to walk into beauty.”

She remained hands-on until launching her distribution company some 25 years later, even while undertaking National Sales Manager and Education Manager roles. Despite dabbling in work with other companies, she established her own clinic from home, working nights and weekends. Treatments were adoringly conducted on her family, including her dad, who had dementia. “I would do treatments at the kitchen bench, just because it was that touch connection.

It was something so special and he really and truly loved it.” The manner in which she delivers this ‘therapist’s touch’ is something that, to this day, hasn’t left her.

Maria founded INSKIN COSMEDICS in 2007, by which point she was in her early 40s. She started with the simple goal of working in a nice place with lovely people, to achieve some great goals and make a difference in this industry; “to lead with the heart”. Concurrent to this would come the business acumen: strategy, profit generation, financial nous. Despite these - 18 years on - her original philosophy remains. It’s how she employs her staff. “The connection with the people - it’s not just about employing people, it’s about recruiting experts.” Maria breaks her recruitment criterion into the “job specification” and the “person specification”. “We look for people that have naturally got gratitude in them, that are naturally caring. The person needs to be lovely.”

INSKIN’s salon network are referred to as ‘partners’ - another instance of Maria’s distinctly human approach. “We partner in each other’s dream,” she explains. “I am very aware that whilst I am building on my goals, [salon owners] are too. I hate the words ‘accounts’ or ‘clients’.” Every partner carries an equal amount of importance to Maria, regardless of size. “When our partners join INSKIN, we don’t welcome them to the INSKIN company, we welcome them to the INSKIN famiglia… to the INSKIN family.” Maria plays on her Italian heritage to further drive home her desire for team connection. “It really matters to me that everybody feels like they’re valued.”

INSKIN took on Sircuit Skin and emerginC as its first skincare brands, however leveling with the brands’ founders proved difficult. Instead, Maria’s extensive background in skin compelled her to craft her own. O COSMEDICS launched in 2010 with a 13 product line-up, inclusive of essential cleansers, serums and hydrators. Maria’s husband, Mario had insisted on condensing the range to lessen the financial risk. “I’d just say to him, ‘the budget is wrong’,” she laughs. Combining the pair’s contribution with an additional $300,000 in shareholder capital gave O COSMEDICS a $1 million start.

She owes the brand’s early success to her acute awareness of what salon owners would come to expect from a partnering brand. “They were going to say: ‘Do you have products for this skin type?’ Do you have brochures? Retail bags? An incentive program? A staff loyalty program?’ Why would a salon give up an established brand to go for a startup that doesn’t have all the ‘bells and all the whistles’ and all the things that they need in order to be a profitable business? I went in so that I could match what was already out there,” she explains.

“I can’t tell you that I have failed at a product launch, or a brand launch, or bringing a person on that didn’t work out… everything is calculated. There was no room for failure because it would take down our livelihood. We would lose our home, our lifestyle and that was not an option. Then, I started to recruit individuals. I was very aware of the responsibility that I was taking, not just of

that person, but their family. Every partner that I took on was making a decision to take my brand. Because of those learnings, I have made better decisions moving forward.”

To Maria, O COSMEDICS offers “the total experience”.

The original tagline for INSKIN COSMEDICS read: Changing the industry DNA - that ‘D’ playing the important role of distinguishing INSKIN COSMEDICS and O COSMEDICS as their own entities. Categorising her skincare offerings as cosmeceutical felt outdated, given the term had been coined nearly 30 years prior. O COSMEDICS would instead stand on its own as a market-defining leader in the use of functional actives. “There was nothing about O that was left to chance.” Likewise, the brand’s O symbolises ‘never ending’; “feeling comfortable in your skin, no matter the age or the stage of your life that you’re in.”

“WHEN OUR PARTNERS JOIN INSKIN, WE DON’T WELCOME THEM TO THE INSKIN COMPANY, WE WELCOME THEM TO THE INSKIN FAMIGLIA… TO THE INSKIN FAMILY.”

15 years on, the brand boasts around 45 retail products and 20 backbar solutions. It’s currently distributed in Canada, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Ireland and Hong Kong, with hopes the next opportunity will fall in the U.K. and the U.S. “They are absolutely drawn to the Australian thing… there’s that reassurance of quality and efficacy.”

The brand, Maria adds, was crafted for the consumer; to help them understand that medical strength skincare is out there and it’s making a difference. Doing so landed the business in hot water early on, as the average consumer’s skin needed to adapt to stronger ingredients. “We needed to teach the industry how actives work. It was a really hard time, but we were able to teach the difference between a reaction and a response.”

O COSMEDICS’ distinctive red packaging was also an intentional choice. “I want it to be strong. I want it to be bold and I want it to be eyecatching,” Maria recalls, “and I’m going to make

Today, INSKIN distributes several professional brands, notably her own skincare trilogy: O COSMEDICS, GINGER&ME and INSKIN.CO, of which Maria and Mario remain majority stakeholders. In 2023, INSKIN secured backing from Australian Business Growth Fund (ABGF) with the goal of further domestic and global expansion. However, Maria says the pair still lead the business’ day-to-day operations. “[ABGF] are brilliant at the strategic side of it, but don’t get in the way of ensuring that we remain agile and able to answer the demands of what the industry is looking for.” All R&D and manufacturing is conducted in-house.

Trilogy partners can earn points on all three brands under the INSKIN POP Loyalty Program. Maria listens closely to the feedback of her partners, building out programs that align with what works for them - a notable benefit to conducting operations locally. “To some extent, I’m competing against myself, so that’s the key criteria - that they don’t overlap. When I created O COSMEDICS, I was very aware that the consumer at that time was looking for fast treatments, fast results. They wanted that lunchtime peel.”

Creating GINGER&ME, on the other hand, came about to address clients’ stress. “When we put the backbar together, it was all about mindfulness, about meditation. It was about telling people to slow down and stop being so hard on yourself, you are enough.” Product textures take clients on a sensory journey, creams luxurious and retail boxes feature relatable, inspirational quotes.

INSKIN.CO - which launched 12 months ago - “came about because of the price point”, Maria admits. INSKIN. CO would also launch with Maria’s magic number 13 SKUs and at a lower RRP of just $55 each. The masstige range, which carries appeal in its own right for its modern, brutalist packaging and broad ingredient offering, is an extension of INSKIN’s cosmedical offering. The botanical range carries a motto of Simple, but not Basic, with each product containing one or two targeted actives.

With each brand’s release, Maria admits another of the brands has found its legs - NEUROCOSMEDICS worked to boost the credibility of O COSMEDICS; INSKIN.CO the same for NEUROCOSMEDICS. In 2025, however, each of the brand’s unique intentions are as relevant and necessary as the other, particularly based on what’s on offer for backbar.

While Maria’s passion for business is palpable, another side - her love for her family - makes its way regularly into conversation. She’s the mother of two, Alexander and Cassandra, who by the time Maria launched INSKIN, were aged in their early adolescence. All too familiar with the juggle of raising children while working a business, Maria looks back at her time as a trainer where she would travel with babies in tow. She credits her “village” of extended family members for their support. “The reason why they are so independent, so organised and so clever at the ➤

way they do life is because they were exposed to the way mum and dad did life,” she says. “One of our core values at INSKIN is that ‘you don’t leave your heart at home when you come to work’,” reminding staff that their families should take priority. “And I made a vow never to miss their birthdays! Those days are sacred to me, it doesn’t matter how old they are. It definitely is a sacrifice, but you have to weigh it up, and never leave them anywhere you don’t feel comfortable.”

Fast-forward to 2020, the global pandemic hit. INSKIN remained, and has remained, one of the nation’s few distributors not to pivot their business model to sell D2C online without sales directly working to boost salons’ bottom line. It’s one of the company’s most admirable qualities and one that has continued to keep them in good stead with their partners ever since. At the time, however, “it was me against everybody else,” she admits, her team fearful of the fate of the business. The night salon doors closed, Maria turned to the INSKIN POP trade page and wrote to her partners: “your doors closed, your business did not. You still have customers, you still have patients that require your guidance.”

Every day that salons remained closed, she conducted a digital live stream, addressing INSKIN partners and reminding them: this too shall pass. During the lockdowns, not a single INSKIN partnering salon closed. As the face of the business, it was vital to Maria that she stand by INSKIN’s salon-first ethos. “If these walls could talk, they would show an incredible picture of this incredible strength [within the team]. This was their happy place.”

According to Maria, there’s a lot yet to come - a retinaldehyde, and a menopausal skin range that has been in the works for three years. Developing a new product only comes about in response to: innovation, scientific breakthrough, new technology and a skin need. “It’s got to make good skin sense, but it’s got to make good business sense, as well.” And while consumers appear savvier than ever when it comes to skincare, Maria sees that there is still catching up to do. “The consumer is really starting to appreciate the value of not just the ingredient and the derivative of the ingredient, but the strength of the active ingredient.”

As is typical of Maria, her next big adventure is to aim higher with international dominance. “I sit in my own unique corner as a beauty therapist that respects skin science… we have to be the voice of reason [on making claims]. The way we talk to our partners, our consumers… It’s not intimidating.”

‘Bored’ isn’t a word that sits in Maria’s vocabulary given that after 40 years, the industry continues to experience such movement. “I’ve been really blessed that I’ve had experiences throughout different aspects and different roles within the industry, and then to land where I’ve landed.” ■

INSKIN COSMEDICS Partner Testimonial WITH RACHEL DIAZ, OWNER OF LOVEBEAUTY CLINIC – A LONG-TIME O COSMEDICS STOCKIST – LOCATED IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA:

Rachel, describe the ethos of your skin clinic.

“At LoveBeauty, we live by the philosophy that healthy skin isn’t just a goalit’s a lifestyle. Our dermal therapists take a holistic approach, looking beyond superficial symptoms to uncover the root causes of our client’s skin conditions. Our approach is centred around supporting skin health through barrier repair, restoring hydration and reducing inflammation. We’re here to help every client feel confident in their own skin, not just for today, but throughout life!”

For how long have you been a stockist of O COSMEDICS?

“I was fortunate to discover O COSMEDICS nearly 14 years ago before opening LoveBeauty and we’ve been proudly stocking their products for eight years. For five of those years, we’ve had the honour of being their largest independent partner, a reflection of how aligned we are in values and commitment to skin health. When you find products that consistently deliver results for your clients, you stick with them!”

What drew you to O COSMEDICS and the INSKIN COSMEDICS team?

“Having worked with O COSMEDICS in a previous clinic, I was immediately drawn to how beautifully my clients’ skin responded to their Pro Dermal Peels and hydrating alginate masks. It all came down to how their products work with the skin rather than against it. Unlike peel systems that rely on aggressive acids leaving the skin stripped and sensitive, O COSMEDICS’ philosophy of nourishing and rebuilding aligns perfectly with how I’ve always wanted to treat skin. It just makes sense and their team supports you every step of the way!”

Describe the nature of the training you and your team have received from INSKIN COSMEDICS.

“We took part in an intensive two-day training at INSKIN COSMEDICS’ facility, covering advanced retail education, peel theory and hands-on application. New team members also receive in-clinic induction training with a brand representative, where they refine product knowledge and perfect our signature O COSMEDICS facial experience. Our weekly Thursday morning sessions include interactive Q&As, keeping us inspired and always evolving. Ongoing education is built into our culture at LoveBeauty and INSKIN COSMEDICS really supports that.”

“WHEN YOU FIND PRODUCTS THAT CONSISTENTLY DELIVER RESULTS FOR YOUR CLIENTS, YOU STICK WITH THEM!”

Discuss the hero O COSMEDICS skin treatments you offer at LoveBeauty and how versatile they are.

“Our signature O COSMEDICS Pro Dermal Peel experience is beautifully curated, offered through four tailored facials that

address virtually every skin concern imaginable. Whether it’s persistent acne, complex pigmentation, rosacea or compromised barriers, we can treat a multitude of skin conditions efficiently. It’s our favourite for a reason: we’re able to customise each treatment in real-time, ensuring every client receives what their skin needs without compromising their skin integrity.”

Are there any O COSMEDICS products in particular that fly off your retail shelves?

“Definitely! It’s a five-way tie between the Gentle Antioxidant Cleanser, Immortal Cream, B3 Serum, Potent Retinol Serum and the Mineral 50 Tinted SPF. They’re essentials in any skincare routine to enhance skin health. With a focus on thorough cleansing, cellular protection, pigment correction, hydration and sun protection, they deliver noticeable results across a wide range of skin types and ages.”

How important is it to you as a business that O COSMEDICS is a professionally-prescribed brand only, eliminating the competition of online retailers?

“It’s incredibly important both ethically and professionally. We’re seeing more skin damage than ever due to unsuitable over-the-counter products and TikTok trends gone wrong. Being able to professionally prescribe O COSMEDICS means we’re giving clients access to safe, customised skincare that’s backed by science and tailored, professional advice. This approach protects both our reputation and most importantly our clients’ skin health!”

INSKIN COSMEDICS

Partner Testimonial WITH CARRIN TREACY, FOUNDER OF THE BEAUTY BASE, BASED ACROSS FOUR LOCATIONS NATIONWIDE:

Carrin, what is your role with The Beauty Base?

“As the founder of The Beauty Base, I oversee our multilocation clinics with a focus on highperformance skin, advanced technologies and nurturing our incredible team. I’m passionate about curating results-driven experiences that don’t compromise on luxury or client care. Every treatment, product and partner we choose must reflect our values and deliver real, visible improvements.”

“THE ONGOING SUPPORT FROM THE INSKIN TEAM IS SECOND TO NONE AND ENSURES OUR STAFF FEEL CONFIDENT, EMPOWERED AND CONTINUALLY GROWING IN THEIR KNOWLEDGE.”

What areas of concern for your clients do O COSMEDICS protocols and retail products best address?

“O COSMEDICS is exceptional in addressing pigmentation, premature ageing, barrier impairment and inflammation - the key concerns we see daily. The formulations are backed by biomimetic science and also feel luxurious for our clients to use at home. The brand truly bridges the gap between clinical results and beautiful textures clients love applying.

The Beauty Base offers a range of treatments, from facials and laser, through to injectable treatments. What makes O COSMEDICS a suitable skincare offering for pre- and post- treatment?

“O COSMEDICS integrates seamlessly with our treatment menu, particularly for pre- and post-procedure skin where healing, repair and cellular health are crucial. Whether supporting barrier function or preparing the skin ahead of laser, the range delivers active results without compromising skin integrity. We love that it’s evidence-based, yet also suitable for sensitised or recovering skin.”

Describe the training you and your team have received from INSKIN COSMEDICS.

“We’ve received comprehensive product and treatment training from INSKIN COSMEDICS across all our locations. Their education is incredibly in-depthnot just about ingredients, but skin function, advanced skin conditions and how to customise regimens clinically. The ongoing support from the INSKIN team is second to none and ensures our staff feel confident, empowered and continually growing in their knowledge.”

How would you describe the ethos of your clinics?

“At The Beauty Base, our ethos blends science with soul, combining clinical-strength technology with an unwavering dedication to client comfort and confidence. We believe skincare should be both transformative and indulgent. Our mission is to create a space where clients feel cared for, understood and empowered through personalised treatment journeys.”

Are there any O COSMEDICS products in particular that fly off of your retail shelves?

“Absolutely. Our clients are obsessed with the Gentle Antioxidant Cleanser, Potent Retinol Serum and Immortal Cream. These are often the ‘gateway’ products that spark true skin transformations. We’ve seen incredible before-and-after results from clients who committed to just a few core pieces of the range.”

How important is it to you as a business that O COSMEDICS is a professionally-prescribed brand only, eliminating the competition of online retailers?

“It’s critical. As a results-based clinic, we stand by education and prescription-led skincare; not just selling a product, but guiding a journey. The professional-only model ensures our clients are getting the right formulas for their skin, used at the right time, and in the right way. It fosters trust, protects client results and upholds the integrity of The Beauty Base brand.”

Professional Beauty

EDUCATION

Making the pivot into beauty, mastering the consultation, and what not to miss at Beauty Expo 2025.

Crush the CONSULTATION

Why the most powerful work you do happens before the first cleanse.

By Rachel Medlock

IF THERE’S one thing skin professionals agree on, it’s that consultation isn’t a checkbox; it’s the beginning of everything.

How that first conversation unfolds can vary wildly, from diagnostic imaging to gut-led questioning, but at its heart, consultation is a chance to understand the person behind the skin.

We spoke to three leaders from different sides of the consultation conversation - Jacinta Curnow of Jacinta Curnow Skin, Clinic Director Louie Gonis of The Skin Agencie, and Educator Gay Wardle of Gay Wardle Skin Institute - about what makes a consultation truly impactful, the myths that still linger, and why your most powerful work happens long before the facial starts.

The Evolution of the Consult

“When I started, consultations were more like a quick 10-minute skin check before jumping into whatever facial the client picked off the menu,” recalls Jacinta. “Maybe a few notes scribbled onto a card.”

Now, her approach couldn’t be more different. Consultations at Jacinta Curnow Skin run for at least an hour. Clients discuss their skin, lifestyle, diet, digestion, and even bowel movements. “I’m not here to guess what’s happening,” she says. “I want the full story so we can work together on a long-term skin health plan.”

Gay agrees that a consultation must go deeper. “It’s not just about analysing the skin, it’s about understanding the person,” she says. “A great consultation weaves science with care, clinical expertise with compassion, and creates a space where the client feels heard, respected, and guided.”

Listening, Language, and Trust

Ask any great therapist and they’ll tell you: communication makes or breaks client rapport.

For Louie, clear communication is as crucial as clinical knowledge. “We aim to listen more than we speak,” he explains. “Clients today are informed; they’ve done the research, they’ve seen the TikToks. It’s our job to cut through the confusion and translate that knowledge into a plan that works for their skin.”

At The Skin Agencie, that plan is shaped using the OBSERV, a diagnostic tool that helps clinicians assess conditions not visible to the naked eye. “It doesn’t replace the knowledge of our team,” Louie explains. “But it does give us, and the client, a deeper view of what’s really going on.”

“CLIENTS WANT TO UNDERSTAND THEIR SKIN; THEY JUST NEED IT DELIVERED IN A WAY THAT’S TAILORED TO THEM, NOT LOADED WITH JARGON.”

Jacinta doesn’t use technology in her consultations. “I rely on observation, experience, and honest conversation,” she says. “Clients bring in their skincare or prescriptions, and we talk through everything. It’s relaxed, not clinical.”

To Tech or Not to Tech

For Louie, OBSERV is more than a consultation tool. It’s used to track progress, create content, and mitigate risk. “Clients often lose perspective on their skin journey,” he says. “But when they see those before-and-after scans, the results are real to them. It builds trust.”

Jacinta is cautious about using technology as a scare tactic. “I’ve hosted events where I borrowed a machine”, she says. “The Woods lamp feature is helpful, sure. But those ‘this is what you’ll look like in 10 years if you don’t use this serum’ tactics give me the ick. I’d rather educate than intimidate.”

Gay offers a balanced view. “Tech has its place,” she says. “But it should enhance, not replace, the therapist’s role. The emotional intelligence, the rapport, the nuance? A machine can’t replicate that.”

Personalisation Over Protocol

Whether guided by tools or intuition, no two consultations should look the same.

“A consultation should never be procedural,” says Jacinta. “Skin isn’t one-size-fitsall, and neither are people. I ask tailored questions, I listen, and I adapt in real time.”

Louie echoes this sentiment. “We use a shared decision-making model,” he explains. “That means giving clients options, outlining pros and cons, and inviting them into the process.”

Gay adds: “I teach structure first, then intuition. Learn the science so well that it becomes second nature, then use your gut to guide the conversation. That’s how you get to the heart of the issue.”

The Deeper Meaning

Consultation templates rarely capture the emotional side of skin.

“Therapists often forget to ask: how do you feel about your skin?” Gay explains. “That question can unlock everything. People aren’t just treating pigmentation, they’re treating insecurity, frustration, and embarrassment. If you don’t understand the emotional journey, you miss the chance to create real transformation.”

Jacinta agrees. “It’s why I’ve created a space that’s safe, warm, and inviting. I want clients to feel like they can tell me anything, and they do.”

The Myths That (Still) Linger

Consultations may be a hallmark of great skin therapy, but there’s still a disconnect in how they’re delivered.

“One of the biggest mistakes I see is assuming that experience replaces structure,” says Gay. “Some therapists stop asking deeper questions because they think they already know the answers. Others rush to treatment without fully understanding the bigger picture.”

Jacinta sees another trap: assuming clients don’t want education. “We underestimate them,” she says. “Clients want to understand their skin; they just

“THE THERAPISTS WHO COMBINE CLINICAL KNOWLEDGE WITH EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE WILL LEAD THE WAY.”

need it delivered in a way that’s tailored to them, not loaded with jargon.”

Louie adds that strong consultations require more than technical skill. “It’s easy to assume that knowing your products is enough,” he shares. “But knowing how to communicate the plan, and how to meet a client where they’re at emotionally or financially, that’s where real outcomes start.”

What We Teach (and What We Don’t)

It’s one thing to recognise their value; another to teach them well.

As an educator, Gay is clear about where the system falls short. “Yes, some schools are improving. They're recognising consultation as more than an intake form,” she explains. “But many still focus too heavily on box-ticking or purely technical assessments. They’re not teaching students how to connect with clients, how to hold space for vulnerability, how to really listen.”

She believes emotional intelligence is as integral as understanding skin pathology. “We should be teaching students how to read non-verbal cues, how to handle sensitive topics like acne or ageing concerns with grace, how to ask about digestion or hormones without making a client uncomfortable.”

Louie adds that education needs to reflect the reality of today’s consumer. “Clients are savvier than ever. They walk in with product knowledge, ingredient lists, and sometimes a full self-diagnosis. If we’re not training therapists to respond to that with confidence and clarity, we’re setting them up to fail.”

So, Where are Consultations Heading?

With AI entering the industry and consumer education growing, is the consultation process due for another reinvention?

“The future is both,” says Gay. “More tech, yes, but more human connection too. As the world becomes more digital, clients will crave real more than ever. The therapists who combine clinical knowledge with emotional intelligence will lead the way.”

Louie sees tech continuing to play a strong role, but not at the expense of trust and conversation. And Jacinta? She’s staying true to her roots. “I don’t need a machine to tell me what my client’s skin needs,” she says. “I just need them to feel comfortable enough to tell me their story, and then we go from there.”

Whether guided by gear or gut, fuelled by data or discussion, your expertise and dedication make consultations the most powerful tool in the treatment room. ■

A PASSIONATE PIVOT

Considering a career move into beauty? Former carpenter, Sean Graves alongside his partner in both business and life, former journalist, Samara McRae did exactly that, training in beauty before opening That Skin Clinic on QLD’s Sunshine Coast. The pair shared their learnings with Hannah Gay.

Sean and Samara, you officially opened That Skin Clinic in April 2025. For how long was this business in the works, from the initial idea to completion?

Samara: “It had been brewing for years, we just didn’t know it. We’ve known each other for seven years, and even back then we were bonding over skin treatments and business ideas.”

Sean: “We weren’t even a couple at the time, but once we got together in 2023, it clicked both personally and professionally. We knew we wanted to build something real.”

Samara: “From that point, we were all in. We spent over seven months researching, training, and physically building the clinic ourselves. Every inch of That Skin Clinic has our DNA on it - literally.”

I understand you built the clinic from scratch. For others in the industry looking to do the same, what did you learn from this experience that you feel they ought to be aware of?

Sean: “That passion and qualifications only get you so far. You need to think like a business owner from day one, or get chewed up by the reality of it all.”

Samara: “You’ll be broke, overwhelmed, and exhausted at times. But if you’re clear on your ‘why’ and your values, and are ready to wear every damn hat from cleaner to marketer, bookkeeper to clinician… you’ll make it.”

Sean: “Oh, and everything takes twice as long and costs double. So, plan for chaos, then push through it anyway.”

What came first: the idea for the clinic? Or the education you each undertook to conduct beauty services?

Sean: “The passion, hands down. I’ve always been obsessed with skin anatomy and treatments, but it was my dirty little secret. I never really spoke about it except to Simmy (Samara). She was the only one who knew how deep my interest ran. Building the clinic gave me the chance to finally own that part of myself and turn it into something that actually helps people.”

“MY HEART JUST WOULDN’T LET ME CONTINUE A PATH THAT WASN’T ALIGNED WITH MY CREATIVITY. THIS INDUSTRY GIVES ME THE FREEDOM TO DO JUST THAT - CREATE.”

Samara: “I studied beauty therapy straight after school in 2007. After a few years, I went into media and marketing, which weirdly helped me build the business side of the clinic later. The idea for That Skin Clinic came from merging our skills, which has allowed us to bring two concepts together under the one umbrella - cosmetic tattooing and advanced skin treatments.”

What prompted your initial desires to enter the beauty industry?

Samara: “I had acne as a teen and still break out now and then, so I understand the confidence great skin can provide. I’m also a nurturer; I genuinely love helping people feel good in their skin and giving them answers when nothing else has worked.”

Sean: “Coming from the trades and a stint in the corporate world, [those industries] weren’t for me; I was far too creative for that. My heart just wouldn’t let me continue a path that wasn’t aligned with my creativity. This industry gives me the freedom to do just that - create.”

Sean, run us through the further education you’ve undertaken in order to perform cosmetic tattoo treatments.

“I’m certified in cosmetic tattooing brows, eyeliner, and lips. I’ve attained a personal service appearance licence, plus infection prevention and skin needling qualifications. I’ve done advanced brow design and colour correction training, too.”

And Samara, for you to perform beauty and laser treatments. “I hold certifications in beauty therapy, microneedling, bio-microneedling, laser safety, and hold my Class IV laser licence. I’ve completed product and skin physiology education with O COSMEDICS and Dr. Spiller, and I’m currently studying dermal science at the Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science (AACDS).”

What skills have you sourced from each of your former roles (as a carpenter and a journalist) to implement into the development and operation of this business, and your individual roles as cosmetic tattooist and laser technician?

Sean: “Carpentry taught me precision, process, and patience, which is exactly what you need in cosmetic tattooing. I also physically built this clinic with my own two hands, so there’s a deeper connection to it.”

Samara: “Journalism taught me how to listen, communicate, and cut through the BS - and that shows up in how I educate clients, lead the brand, and run the business. It also gave me a strong sense of integrity; I’ll never overpromise or treat someone like a number.”

What degree of importance do you each place on ongoing education for yourselves and your staff?

Samara: “It’s everything. If you’re not learning in this industry, you’re already behind.”

Sean: “We don’t just train to tick boxes; we train to get better - for our clients, for each other, and ourselves.”

What’s your approach when it comes to educating clients on their skin health and treatment expectations?

Samara: “Transparent, honest, and science-led. We break down what’s happening in the skin, what treatments will actually help, and what the process looks like. No quick fixes. No TikTok trends. We’re here to educate clients on long-term, regenerative skin health and how to strengthen the skin barrier.”

Sean: “We use imaging, which I call: the egg of youth.”

Samara: “It’s the Spectrum ONE Skin Analysis technology…”

Sean: “... then we track progress so clients can see their skin changing. When they understand what’s happening, they trust the process. And when they trust it, they stick to it. That’s when results happen.”

What skills are you each hoping to master next?

Samara: “Clinically, I’m diving deeper into skin disorders and corrective laser. From a business perspective, I’m refining systems, and preparing for sustainable team growth. I want to build a team culture that’s aligned, educated, and genuinely client-first.”

Sean: “I’m focused on advanced tattoo correction techniques and developing more targeted treatment pathways for men. That space is massively under-served, probably because they’re all holding the same dirty secret I was. I want to help bridge that gap, and to have men feel comfortable talking about it.” ■

Join us at Beauty Expo Australia 2025!

Beauty Expo Australia is the country’s largest celebration of all things beauty – uniting the industry for one unmissable weekend. It’s your ultimate opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired alongside a community of passionate professionals.

In an ever-evolving industry, staying ahead of the latest trends, technologies, and innovations is vital. Make 2025 your most successful year yet by investing in your professional development and growing your business at Beauty Expo Australia.

DATES: 16 AUGUST 9am – 5pm | 17 AUGUST 9am – 5pm

VENUE: ICC Sydney, Darling Harbour

Top Reasons To Attend Beauty Expo

New Feature

K-BEAUTY

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

Face2face Makeup Awards

The Face2Face Makeup Awards celebrate the craft, creativity, and passion of extraordinary makeup artists. Designed as a supportive and inclusive competition, this platform allows artists at any level to challenge themselves across four categories: Bridal, Beauty Editorial, Fashion Editorial, or Creative Makeup. This must-enter competition provides an unparalleled opportunity for professional growth and industry recognition.Our panel of judges, of internationally acclaimed makeup artists, will choose their winners live at the event, except beauty editorial.

Categories Include

Bridal (Live) A Timeless Romance

Beauty Editorial (Photographic) Ethereal Beauty

Fashion Editorial (Live) Trend Prediction

Creative Makeup (Live) Under the Ocean

Spotlight: Wellness

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

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

The Australia Beauty & Aesthetics Conference

Engage in over 40 sessions of immersive education that deliver cutting-edge insights, innovations, and skills to enhance your business and professional expertise. At the heart of this experience is the Main Stage, one of four distinct stages where you can watch exciting demonstrations, tutorials, and performances live and free to attend, right in the centre of the show floor.

The Australian Beauty & Aesthetic Conference (ABAC) spans two days and features keynote presentations, panel discussions, case studies, and educational sessions designed around the evolving driving growth to your business and updates on beauty trends and treatments.

Learn How to Treat the Internal Root Cause of Acne, like a Naturopath

Bridge the knowledge gap in the Skin and Beauty industry with evidence-based acne treatment. Acne signals the need for holistic support, which you can provide within your practice. This Acne Expert will teach you an evidence-based strategy to treat acne internally, starting with gut health. Hayley offers a comprehensive approach to address the root causes of acne, empowering you to support your clients in achieving clear skin and long-term health.

Panel Discussion: K-Beauty Trends Captivating the Global Market

Discover the Korean beauty trends that are taking the global market by storm! Learn how K-Beauty brands are shaping industry standards, influencing consumer habits, and driving the future of skincare and aesthetics.

Keynote:

Beauty

by Design - Building an Award-Winning Brand with SSKIN

Join powerhouse sisters Emilee and Amy Hembrow, founders of the award-winning SSKIN, for an inspiring keynote session. 2024 ABIA Award winners for Best Salon Design, Emilee and Amy will share the story behind the vision - how they crafted a space that’s not only visually stunning but built to elevate the client experience. From creative concept to thriving brand, they’ll share their entrepreneurial journey, revealing the challenges, bold decisions, and business strategies that transformed SSKIN into a beauty destination. Whether you’re dreaming of your own salon or scaling your brand, this is a session you won’t want to miss!

The Content Creator

Struggling to take photos or videos of your work? Want to create quality content that will capture the attention of your desired audience? Then this is for you. Isabelle will share with you strategies and techniques on how to best capture your work using just your phone, including working with natural and artificial lighting setups, finding the most flattering angles and how to edit your images so colours pop. You don’t need a fancy amera or expensive lights to take great photos.

Dr Jimmy Wang, Dr Jimmy’s Skin and Cosmetics

Lauren Lee, Jelly Ko

Dr Gordon Ku, The Me Clinic

Emilee Hembrow SSKIN

Amy Hembrow SSKIN

Hayley Barnes Skincare Academy

Isabelle De Vries Isabelle De Vries Beauty

180+ Leading Brands

Shop from Australia’s largest collection of professional beauty brands and products across 39 categories, including Advanced Cosmeceuticals, Beauty Technology, ClinicalPRO, Crown Brush Australia, elleebana, Murad, Tweeny Skin and many more.

The Business Couch

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

Beauty Live

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

Whether you want to explore all the sessions or focus on discovering incredible brands, we have a ticket option to suit you.

EXPO PASS – Gives you access to the expo floor and content on the Main Stage, Beauty Live, Competitions and Business Couch all weekend.

CONFERENCE PASS – The benefits of the Expo Pass PLUS unlock two full days of unparalleled education and inspiration.

Secure your place at Beauty Expo Australia. Visit: beautyexpoaustralia.com.au to book your pass now. We look forward to welcoming you to Beauty Expo Australia, where inspiration, innovation, and industry excellence come together for an unmissable event.

Professional Beauty

Defining luxury beauty, building a salon from scratch, and treatment rooms-meet-retail stores.

FOR THE LOVE OF LUXURY

THE WORD luxury gets used a lot in our industry, but fewer people are talking about what it really means. Is it the packaging, the price tag, the clinic’s postcode, or has the meaning quietly shifted into something far deeper?

It’s a question I recently explored with two of Australia’s most revered skin therapists. Jocelyn Petroni - renowned for her meticulous touch and high-profile client base - and Britt Davis, the thoughtful founder behind äkta and a champion of high-performance botanical skincare. Both share a deep connection to brands many would call “luxury,” but the way they define and deliver that word in their spaces reveals a richer, more grounded truth.

Britt doesn’t flinch when I ask her what luxury means in her world; she answers with the kind of clarity that comes from lived experience: intention. Not indulgence, not opulence. Intention. For her, luxury is offering something deeply considered, both in formulation and philosophy. “True luxury feels purposeful,” she tells me. It’s the feeling of being cared for through skincare that’s as thoughtful as it is effective.

Jocelyn’s view is equally rooted in care but stretches beyond the skin. “Luxury to me is time,” she reflects. “It’s separate from skin and brand.” There is something disarming in that honesty. Luxury, for her, is the pause, the space to connect and the moment someone feels seen and looked after. “Our approach comes from a place of compassion. We embrace our clients like family.”

By Rachel Medlock

The idea that luxury is linked to value runs through both brands. For Britt, it was RAAIE that first caught her eye. The design drew her in, but it was the formulations that held her attention — intelligent, results-driven, and respectful to the skin. “It felt like a seamless extension of my own values,” she says. With its fusion of science and natural beauty, RAAIE felt right at home at äkta, where evidence-based skin care is delivered with calm, curated simplicity.

For Jocelyn, her alignment with La Mer reflects a longstanding admiration for the brand’s quiet mastery of inflammation. “I’ve loved La Mer since I was a child,” she shares. What resonates most is its ability to calm inflamed, post-treatment skin without delay. “Creme de la Mer retains water and physically stops it from evaporating. It’s the ultimate balm.” In her clinic, where advanced treatments are common, the ability to soothe and stabilise the skin is essential, and for Jocelyn, La Mer delivers on that without compromise.

Both Jocelyn and Britt share a clear preference for formulas that respect the skin’s natural rhythm. Innovation, in this context, is subtle. “When it’s real, it’s quiet,” Britt says. “It’s in how a formula supports the skin without drama. It simplifies rather than complicates.” Jocelyn echoes this, viewing inflammation as a key consideration for every treatment plan. In both spaces, skin health comes first, and luxury, in turn, becomes something deeper than design; it becomes about trust, care, and intelligent restraint.

While luxury has traditionally been defined by attributes like exclusivity, fragrance, and packaging, today’s clients are seeking something more profound. Britt has noticed a growing interest in science-led skincare, particularly among clients who want to gain a deeper understanding of their skin. “They still want a sensorial experience,” she adds, “but they also want clarity, education, and honesty.” Her clients, it seems, are no longer seduced by sparkle; they’re looking for substance.

Jocelyn agrees but says the setting still matters. The sensory aspect of luxury remains a vital cue for her clients, and her Sydney location is a reflection of this. Dreamed up over twenty years and designed to facilitate connection, quiet, and presence, the space itself is not a backdrop; it’s an active player in the experience.

This emotional connection directly translates into how clients interact with ➤

“WHILE LUXURY HAS TRADITIONALLY BEEN DEFINED BY ATTRIBUTES LIKE EXCLUSIVITY, FRAGRANCE, AND PACKAGING, TODAY’S CLIENTS ARE SEEKING SOMETHING MORE PROFOUND.”

“OF COURSE, WORKING WITH A LUXURY BRAND BRINGS WITH IT EXPECTATIONS. BOTH ACKNOWLEDGE THE PRESSURE THAT CAN ARISE FROM HIGH PRICE POINTS, PARTICULARLY IN TERMS OF CLIENT PERCEPTION.”

products. Britt finds that when something feels meaningful or has a story or ritual, clients become more committed. They are more consistent with their routines, more open to education, and more invested in their results.

Of course, working with a luxury brand brings with it expectations. Both acknowledge the pressure that can arise from high price points, particularly in terms of client perception. For Britt, this pressure is managed through personal integrity. She doesn’t stock anything she hasn’t tested on herself or seen succeed in her space. For Jocelyn, belief is non-negotiable — “If your team doesn’t believe in

the brand, there’s a misalignment. You need to believe in it to have your clients believe in it.”

For clinics considering a luxury range, Britt encourages them to look inward. “Go beyond the formulation and ask yourself if it aligns with your values. Does it support the type of care you want to offer? Does it add to your client journey, or distract from it?”

Jocelyn echoes the sentiment, sharing that it’s not about chasing prestige, it’s about resonance. When a brand speaks the same language as your business, that luxury doesn’t live on a shelf; it lives in every part of your brand.

The textures might still be rich, the packaging still beautiful, but the true marker of luxury is how thoughtfully it’s delivered. It’s in the hands, the pause, the care behind every choice.

As Jocelyn puts it, “luxury is time,” and perhaps that is what we are all craving most. ■

THE MOST DISRUPTIVE WORKPLACE REFORM IN A GENERATION: WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOUR BEAUTY & AESTHETIC BUSINESSES

By Stefanie Milla, Founding Director & CEO of The Aesthetic & Beauty Industry Council (ABIC)

THE 2025 Federal IR reforms are here, and they’re not theoretical anymore. They’re live, enforceable, and already impacting the way we run our businesses. For small businesses in the beauty and aesthetics industry, including clinics, salons and spas, these changes aren’t just policy tweaks. They’re monumental shifts in how we hire, manage, pay and retain our teams.

And let’s be honest, they’re a lot!

As a business owner and now CEO of ABIC, I speak to small business owners every day who feel completely overwhelmed, some contemplating if they have the stamina to stay in business. So, while these reforms bring good intentions, employee rights, wage growth, balance, they also bring complex red tape, higher costs, and growing risk for businesses already doing it tough.

Here’s what you need to know, so you are prepared:

Wage and Penalty Rate Changes

Minimum wage has increased again this year, along with stricter enforcement of penalty rates. Award classifications must be correct, pay structures must be watertight, and there’s no more room for “near enough is good enough.” If your payroll systems aren’t audited and precise, the penalties are substantial: up to $93,900 per breach for businesses, and $18,780 for individuals.

The Right to Disconnect

As of 26 August 2025, employees will have the legal right to disconnect from work outside their rostered hours. This means contacting your team via text, DM or call after-hours could be considered unlawful without documented agreement. It sounds simple, but for owner-operators used to running everything on the go, it means a total cultural reset.

Casual Conversion Rules

You must now offer permanent roles to casual staff after six months, unless you can prove a valid reason not to. This changes how we roster, budget and scale up for seasonal demand or events. If you’re not managing contracts with professional guidance, you may be inadvertently exposing your business to risk.

Ban on NonCompete Clauses

The proposed ban on non-compete clauses for employees earning under $175,000 means you can no longer stop a team member from working at a competing clinic or opening up next door. Retention must now be earned, not enforced. That means focusing on building loyalty, strong culture, and clear policies that make your team want to stay.

Multi-Employer Bargaining & Portable Entitlements

Expect more pressure for sector-wide pay agreements, even if you’re a boutique salon or skin clinic. Portable leave schemes may also arrive, requiring you to fund leave entitlements for short-term staff or freelancers. Both will reduce flexibility and increase operational cost.

Inclusion, Leave and Superannuation Reforms

There are increasing requirements around diversity and inclusion in hiring, plus upcoming superannuation payments on parental leave. These are progressive changes, but they require updated internal policies, tech systems and training.

Union Access Expansion

Unions will have greater rights to access your business and engage with staff. Yes, even for our industry via the retail and trade unions. For employers not familiar with union processes, this may feel daunting. The best approach is compliance, transparency and early resolution, and the right legal advice before issues escalate.

What This Means for You

These reforms come at a time when many clinics, salons and spas are already under pressure from rising costs, staff shortages, and increased client expectations. The added layer of legal and HR complexity is real, and for most, is impossible to manage without help.

This is why having access to a qualified HR, IR and legal team is no longer optional. It’s a necessity. Contracts, policies and compliance aren’t “nice to haves”, they’re your safety net.

ABIC Is Here to Help

At ABIC, our mission is to support the people behind this industry, not just with advocacy, but with real tools. That includes unlimited weekday access to HR, IR and legal professionals who specialise in aesthetics, beauty and wellness businesses.

Thanks to the support of our Foundation Members, including Professional Beauty, we offer this full-service support at a heavily subsidised rate of just $99/month. That’s on-call advice, contract reviews, award interpretation, and policy support tailored to our industry, every weekday, 9 to 5.

In this new era of compliance and complexity, you don’t have to figure it out alone. ABIC is here to walk with you, every step of the way. ■

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PROJECT: Salon

What happens when you build a salon from scratch in a public way?

Harmony Tera has done just that, launching Project: Salon with the aim of providing a uniquely transparent lens into the very real ups-and-downs of founding your own business. Hannah Gay followed Harmony’s progress from start to finish, opening Lemonade Brows in Sydney’s Inner West. Here’s how it went.

What inspired the idea behind Project: Salon, and for how long was this idea in the works?

“Honestly, this wasn’t something I had been planning for a long time; it all came together pretty organically. Since launching beauty exchange platform, Swapp, I’ve had less and less time to be on the tools, and managing my last remaining salon was starting to feel like a stretch. I’d already sold my flagship salon about a year ago, and when my landlord decided to almost double the rent earlier this year, I saw it as the perfect opportunity to step back and rethink what I actually wanted.

That’s when I decided to downsize. I started packing down my remaining lash and brow salon and began looking for a smaller space - one that would allow me to focus purely on the part of my work that I love most: cosmetic brow tattooing. I only wanted to take clients a couple of days a week, and I wanted those clients to be the kind of women I genuinely love working with. So, I started building a space that was designed specifically for that purpose.

At the same time, I was in the thick of growing Swapp. And as I was having conversations with other professionals in the industry, I realised that so many of us were navigating similar changes: closing down salons, starting fresh, going solo, reducing hours after having kids, or just rethinking how we wanted to work. I found myself talking about what I was doing a lot, and the feedback I got made me realise that my journey wasn’t just my own - it was something others were curious about, and could actually learn from.

That’s where Project: Salon was born. I wanted to document the process of building this space honestly and transparently, and show what it really looks like to create a salon from scratch while juggling a startup, shifting priorities, and staying true to what you actually want. It’s not about making it look easy; it’s about showing the reality of it so that

others can see what’s possible, and maybe feel a bit less alone in whatever chapter they’re in.”

I understand you managed a salon for nine years prior to commencing Project: Salon. Have you ever built your own salon from scratch before?

“Yes, this is the third salon I’ve built from scratch now and I’ve learned something new (and usually unexpected) every single time.

The first one I opened with my best friend back in 2016. We were great at the actual work, but completely clueless about running a business. We didn’t have a sign, or even a Google listing at the start. We didn’t know the first thing about leases or tax or marketing. We didn’t even know there was a difference between a residential and commercial lease until we got asked for three months’ rent upfront as a bond. We also had no idea we needed council approval! We had to learn everything the hard way. It was a pretty steep learning curve, but we figured it out. Eventually, my friend moved back to Ireland, I bought her out, and I sold the salon successfully about a year ago.

In 2021, I opened my second salon on my own (just weeks before the second lockdown hit). I just closed that space in June this year because I’ve shifted focus again. With Lemonade, I’m going solo, specialising in cosmetic brow tattooing, and keeping things simple - just me, my favourite service, and the kind of clients I love working with.

Each salon has taught me something, but the biggest growth has come from chatting with other salon owners; sharing what we’ve been through, what worked, what didn’t. That kind of open exchange has helped me grow just as much as any real-life experience. It’s a huge part of why I started Swapp and why I’m being so

Photography: Supplied

“THE MORE I SAT WITH IT, THE CLEARER IT BECAME: I WANTED TO BUILD SOMETHING THAT SUITED ME. A SMALL, NICHE SPACE OF MY OWN, WHERE I COULD DO THE WORK I LOVE FOR THE PEOPLE I LOVE WORKING WITH. ONCE I MADE THAT DECISION, EVERYTHING ELSE QUICKLY FELL INTO PLACE.”

transparent about this journey with Project: Salon. I genuinely believe we’re all better off when we stop gatekeeping and start learning from each other.”

What was the very first step you had to take in getting Project: Salon off the ground?

“Mentally committing to the idea. I’d received notice from the real estate agency that a new tenant would be taking over my existing space so, in a way, the decision was made for me. That chapter was naturally closing, and it no longer fit where I was heading anyway. I’d already started winding the business down as Swapp was growing, and the idea of running a full salon with staff just didn’t align with where I saw my future or with what I could commit to with time and mental capacity.

I did play around with a few options at first (maybe I’d rent a room somewhere and just quietly look after my existing clients), but the more I sat with it, the clearer it became: I wanted to build something that suited me. A small, niche space of my own, where I could do the work I love for the people I love working with. Once I made that decision, everything else quickly fell into place.”

What key features were you looking for when sourcing a space for your salon?

“I was looking for lots of natural light, and a location that was easily accessible from different areas of Sydney; somewhere well connected to both public transport and main roads. I wanted it to be in a busy area, but quiet enough inside the salon so clients could still feel calm. I was also looking for something small-ish, and ideally a space that would be easy to renovate and fit out the way I needed.”

Council approvals, lease negotiations and solicitor sign-offs are notoriously difficult for any small business. What hurdles have you faced in achieving these, and how long were you waiting to secure all of these approvals?

“Ah council approvals and lease stuff… it really does

my head in. Every time I think I know what I’m doing, something new pops up.

Originally, I had another space locked in and had gone through the process of negotiating the lease (it was only from talking to other salon owners that I even realised you could negotiate these things!) I managed to get a rent-free period, a few extras installed in the space before signing, and pushed back on some clauses in the lease that just didn’t sit right with me. That lease was being handled by the real estate agency, as it was a commercial lease that was less than three years long, so didn’t need to be handled by a solicitor.

There were a few red flags that reminded me of past real estate dramas… I’ve learned to trust that feeling. So, even though I’d already started council approvals and paid a town planner almost $1,000 for a Statement of Environmental Effects (SEE), I pulled out. It took about three weeks of back-and-forth, but I knew it was the right decision long-term.

I secured another space pretty quickly after that. It’s a retail lease, which I’ve never done before (my other salons were commercial), so that came with a whole new set of processes: solicitors on both sides, longer turnaround times, and a lot more paperwork. My solicitor is actually the husband of one of my clients who had helped me with the sale of my first salon. He cost me about $2,500 and added three weeks to the timeline, too. This real estate agency wasn’t as flexible with negotiations, but I did get four weeks at half rent, so that’s something. I feel really safe with how professional and ‘red-tapey’ these guys are.

Changing locations also meant changing councils. I had to follow up six times with the first council, just to get one email response. My new space’s council has been the total opposite: fast, clear, on the ball... wild! I also had to get a new SEE drawn up for the new space (another cost), but I’ve been taking a more proactive approach this time, following up with council. And, I joined ABIC, which has been amazing (and another move that I wish I had done before opening my other salons). They help explain the bits I don’t fully understand, and make the whole council process feel a bit less scary.

Even now - three salons in - I still get jumpy when I’m contacted by council. But this time around, I feel like I’ve got more support, more knowledge, and way more clarity than I ever did in the past.”

What were you looking for when sourcing a builder? And were they successful in helping you achieve your goals?

“To be honest, I didn’t have a lot of luck with builders.

I started with someone who was great for the first location but when I had to change spaces, our visions no longer aligned. By the time I needed him again, he wasn’t available due to project delays.

I found another builder through Airtasker. I’d seen photos of his previous work and liked that there was some level of security through the platform. I’d also done my research and was really careful not to pay anything up front (I paid for each ➤

“THIS WAS MORE THAN I HAD INTENDED TO SPEND ON THE SALON, AND THIS IS EXACTLY WHY I WANTED TO SHARE THIS PUBLICLY, BECAUSE IT’S SCARY NOT HAVING ANY IDEA ABOUT HOW WRONG THINGS CAN GO.”

job after 90-100% of the work was completed). Just before starting the final job, he became completely uncontactable, removing all his tools from the site. Almost every job remained unfinished, despite having paid for them. To make matters worse, he had taken the salon key, so I had to get the police involved to ensure the premises were secure again.

I’ve since had to bring in other builders to fix and finish everything. These new builders, who were referred by my sister, told me the original builder’s work was rough and not to standard. To fix it properly would cost another $3,000. They also explained that ‘cowboy builders’ are unfortunately common, and that women outside the building industry are often easy targets.

My biggest advice would be to always check a builder’s license number online and try to find someone through word-of-mouth or trusted recommendations. Right now, it’s hard to protect yourself without a personal connection, but I really hope that changes in the future.”

Did you enlist the support of an interior designer or architect to help you fit-out the space?

“Yes. I worked with one of my clients from a previous salon, Maria Vrondas from Archivore, who’s an interior architect. She gave me some incredible advice that completely shifted how I approached the space. Rather than just focusing on how it looked, she encouraged me to connect the design with how I want my clients to feel when they’re in it.

Because I work with older clients who want their brows to feel like a natural, timeless part of their face and not a trend, she helped me understand

that the space needed to reflect that same ethos. It had to feel calm, refined, and elevated. She encouraged me to incorporate natural materials like wood and stone to reflect my emphasis on the natural, and to use more luxurious finishes like brushed brass fixtures to bring a sense of quality and care to the details.

Since my services are bespoke, the space needed to have that custom, considered feel as well. She guided me through what materials to use, what colours would support the experience I was creating, and how to ensure it all felt cohesive. I ended up going with a neutral palette - soft whites, beiges, and natural tones - to visually signal that my work is about subtlety, balance, and enhancing what’s already there.”

Have you had any immediate outlays for tattooing equipment, backbar solutions, or retail?

“Because I’d already been providing this service at my previous salon, I didn’t have to invest heavily upfront, as I already had most of the essential equipment and supplies. However, to focus exclusively on this one service, I’ve ordered additional stock of what I already use, doubling up on tools like tattoo machines (with extra batteries), and replenishing pigments and disposables to prepare for increased usage.

I haven’t started retailing products specifically for brow tattooing yet, but I’m currently researching some specialised skincare lines. My aim is to offer targeted anti-ageing products that address the concerns of my clientele, who generally share similar skincare needs. It won’t be a full retail range, but a curated selection of effective, targeted products to complement the service.”

Who did you work with to get Lemonade Brows’ digital components up-and-running?

“I built the Lemonade Brows website myself using Squarespace, which I found pretty straightforward. I always recommend it to other salon or small business owners because it gives you control over the backend, which is so helpful for updating information, writing blogs to boost SEO, and saving money where you can, especially when starting out. I don’t think web developers are useless at all, but I do think a DIY solution like this can be incredibly useful when you’re trying to keep overheads low.

I’ve used Fresha since around 2015, so I’m really comfortable navigating it now. I just added my services and details directly.

As for advertising and marketing, that’s been a mix of learning from other experienced salon owners, doing online research, and getting advice from social media managers to get the fundamentals in place. I prefer to get my hands dirty with this kind of thing. I like having a clear understanding of what’s going on in every part of my business, especially the parts that affect how people find and connect with me.”

Lemonade Brows has a target demographic of women over the age of 45. How do you intend on marketing the business to this specific clientele?

“Marketing to this demographic is very different from a younger, trend-driven audience, so I’ve been really intentional in tailoring how I’ll reach them. Women over 45 are typically less influenced by social media and more guided by referrals and word-of-mouth. They’re often in Facebook groups and still engage with local publications. They trust the people they already know.

Therefore, my main strategy is offline. I’m planning to personally connect with other local service providers who my ideal clients already trust, such as skin therapists, hair salons, and natural health providers, and build relationships that could lead to referral systems. I want these professionals to feel genuinely confident recommending me to their clients so that trust can transfer naturally. I also plan to use targeted Meta advertising, flyer drops in the local area, and participate in Facebook groups where this demographic is active. I’ll be distributing a press release to media outlets whose audiences align with my clientele, too.

But beyond marketing channels, what really connects me with this demographic is how I work. I don’t just specialise in the service - I specialise in this client. Many of my clients have waited years to do something about their brows and are understandably cautious. I take the time to translate the beauty industry into something they can understand and feel confident navigating. I slow

everything down, educate them, read between the lines of what they’re saying (and not saying), and collaborate with them on a solution that suits their features and their lifestyle.”

Let’s talk costs. You shared in an Instagram post in early June that you were anticipating a weekly spend of $2,248.04. Has this figure changed?

“Yes, it’s changed slightly since then. That original figure was based on a detailed breakdown I’d done before opening, but a few real numbers came in a little higher once everything was finalised. My rent, for example, ended up being $380 per week instead of the $346 I had estimated. My insurance also increased slightly with the location change, from $15.46 to just over $20 per week. I also hadn’t included stock in that original figure. While it’s not a huge weekly expense, I now anticipate spending around $50–$100 per week on stock, depending on demand and reordering cycles.

While the overall structure of my spend hasn’t changed, the updated weekly cost is now slightly higher by roughly $100–$150 per week. It’s still well within my forecast range, and these small adjustments were always expected once the business was up-and-running.”

The above doesn’t factor in the cost of the overall build and associated fees to complete Project: Salon. Care to share your projected final outlay for the project?

“Yes, I’m happy to share because I think it’s important to talk honestly about what these kinds of projects can cost, especially when you’re doing something intentionally and not cutting corners.

[As at July], materials alone have cost around $6,500. I paid the original builder $4,077 before he left the site unfinished, and it cost me a further $2,800 to bring in new builders to fix and complete his work. On top of that, I paid $500 for tiling and $500 for the benchtop.

Furniture for the salon has come to around $1,200 thanks to a partnership with DSSE Australia that saw me secure a bed and stool at half price. I’ve also spent about $700 on curtains, curtain rails and blinds, $600 on waiting room chairs, and $200 for a console from Facebook Marketplace.

Council-related costs have included $650 for approvals and registering as a skin penetration salon, and $832.15 for a SEE. I also paid $979 for an earlier SEE that ended up being wasted due to a location change. I’m also planning to have the salon ABIC SafeSkin Certified, which will be an additional $499.

On the lease side, the bond for the premises was $5,000, and I paid $2,300 for a solicitor to go through the lease terms and make sure everything was done properly.

Altogether, the projected outlay sits between $27,000 to $30,000, and that doesn’t include the time and labour I’ve invested personally in managing every

part of this build. It’s been a big financial and emotional investment. This was more than I had intended to spend on the salon, and this is exactly why I wanted to share this publicly, because it’s scary not having any idea about how wrong things can go. This salon has been my most challenging one yet, but if this can help just one person wanting to open a salon to make better choices - or even give them enough confidence to jump in - it will have been worth it.”

For those looking at building their own salon from scratch, what advice would you offer?

“Be realistic, research thoroughly, and plan intentionally.

Start by researching your costs and timelines, then add buffers for just-in-case situations. Don’t leave your setup timeline open-ended. Set a clear deadline and try to stick to it, because the sooner you open, the sooner you start making money.

Be intentional. Plan who you are, who you serve, and what you do in a cohesive way across everything: your physical space, your online presence, your imagery, and the atmosphere of your salon. Remember, it’s not just about building a nice salon. It’s about creating a space that makes sense for you, your clients, and the services you offer. Don’t forget the business side. Money matters. Plan for profit, not just expenses. Educate yourself on the parts of business you don’t know, because running a salon isn’t just about opening the doors, it’s about sustaining and growing.

I built my salon publicly because I wanted to be a reference point; to show what’s really involved, what can go wrong, and how you can adjust and move forward. More than that, I wanted to highlight how important your professional network is. I leaned heavily on other beauty professionals throughout this process, and you truly can’t underestimate how generous this industry is and how much people want you to succeed, if you’re willing to ask.” ■

Harmony partnered with DSSE Australia for Lemonade Brows' salon chairs.

HOW TO HOST A COMMUNITY VIP EVENT

(That will actually make you money)

By Emelly Simons

LET’S BE real, salon owners have a love–hate relationship with events. They sound like a good idea… until you're knee-deep in cheese platters, ghosted RSVPs, and wondering why you bothered at all.

I get it. I used to hate them, too. Once, I even told a brand-new CEO that I didn’t “do” events. Bold move, I know. Spoiler alert: it didn’t go down well. Fast forward to now, and planning events is one of my absolute favourite things to help salon owners with. Events can bring in serious cash, boost your visibility, build trust with your clients, and fill your calendar for months. Honestly, they’re a goldmine, if you know how to work them.

So, if you’ve been avoiding events, overthinking them, or are just too nervous to try, consider this your sign to pull up your big girl panties and get moving. Here’s how to host a community event that’s fun, fabulous, and most importantly, profitable:

First up: make it a celebration. Whether it’s your salon’s birthday, a new treatment or product launch, or just an excuse to roll out the red carpet, give people a reason to show up. Clients love being included, especially when they get early access to something exclusive. Give yourself at least 4–6 weeks to plan properly; no last-minute chaos here. Think about how you’ll invite people (hint: one Instagram story won’t cut it), and most importantly, be clear on your goal. Are you selling packages? Boosting retail? That goal will shape your offers and how the event runs.

Now – and this part’s crucial - ticket your event. No freebies! Charging a ticket price reduces no-shows and instantly positions your event as something valuable. You’ll also cover costs and attract people who are ready to invest. Create a limited-edition facial and consultation combo that’s not on your menu. It can’t be price-compared and feels totally VIP. Frame it as an experience, because that’s exactly what it is. Your offers should be juicy. Build high-value packages using add-ons like LED or skin boosters that don’t take extra time. Got

old GWPs, kits or full-sized freebies sitting in a drawer? Use them! Add them into your packages or as part of your retail offer. Think: buy 3, get a cleanser; buy 5, get a cleanser and a mask. Stack that value up. Don’t forget a luxe lucky door prize - something retail and desirable. Offer bonus entries for every $50+ spend and watch your transaction sizes grow.

Last but not least, here are my key profit tips: plan ahead and get strategic. Use GWP promos, rebates, or brand incentives to add value without extra cost. Stockpile freebies, bulk-buy deals… anything. This can be done by working your marketing calendar. Lean on your brand partners. If your BDM is fab at consults and closing sales, get them involved. Their expertise can elevate the entire experience and help you sell more.

With the Christmas sales period coming up, NOW is the time to start planning your event. Good luck and happy eventing! Em x

Emelly Simons is a business consultant, creative brain, and industry powerhouse with 20+ years in the beauty and aesthetics game, helping beauty pros build profitable businesses without the fluff. Strategy meets soul and backed by decades of hands-on experience and results that shine. ■

DISCOVERING TRENDS AND NOVELTIES OF APAC BEAUTY AT COSMOPROF ASIA 2025

Great expectations for Cosmoprof Asia 2025, the B2B reference event representing the best in beauty in the Asia-Pacific region. Celebrating its 28th edition, the exhibition, scheduled from November 11 to 14 in Hong Kong, is recognised as a prime destination for international companies, with 89% of exhibitors and 74% of visitors coming from outside Hong Kong in the last edition. The event also boasts strong global appeal, with exhibitors and visitors from Europe, the Americas, MENA, and beyond.

With over 70,000 attendees expected, the event will be the ultimate showcase for the latest innovations in the cosmetics sector, introducing the top launches for the APAC market. It will host around 2,800 exhibitors from around the globe, along with around 20 international country and group pavilions, presenting cutting-edge products and services from leading markets. Cosmoprof Asia spans two exhibition venues and covers all sectors of the beauty industry, from raw materials to finished branded products.

The APAC beauty market isn’t just growing - it’s leading the global industry, with a 6.7% CAGR from 2023 to 2027 (Euromonitor International), surpassing North America (5.7%) and Europe (4.3%). As the epicenter of innovation, digital transformation, and trendsetting marketing, Asia drives the future of beauty - with China, Korea, and Japan at the forefront, while Singapore, China and Korea serve as vital export hubs. Hong Kong remains its role as APAC’s strategic business hub (ranked 7th globally for beauty imports in 2024). For industry players seeking to capture growth, uncover groundbreaking innovations, and build pivotal connections, Cosmoprof Asia stands as the essential platform

Cosmoprof and Cosmopack Asia reflecting the evolution of the APAC market

Cosmoprof and Cosmopack Asia reflect the dynamic evolution of the beauty market in the Asia-Pacific region. Cosmopack Asia will showcase the best in the supply chain at AsiaWorld-Expo, located near to the airport, from November 11 to 13, with a reorganisation of its show floor to enrich the experience of stakeholders visiting the exhibition. Two distinct sub-segments will guide buyers and brand owners: OEM/ODM & Raw Materials will focus on contract and private label manufacturing and essential raw materials, while Packaging & Machinery will highlight advancements in machinery and packaging solutions. Some of the

top suppliers attending Cosmopack Asia 2025 will be: Axilone, B.Kolormakeup, Baralan, Berlin, Chemicos, FSKOREA, HTC, HeinzGlas, Kolmar Korea Co. Ltd, Beautynova, Marchesini Group, MPLUS, OMNICOS, JM, NaturAlps, SheenCol’or, Schwan Cosmetics, SGD, and Woojung.

Cosmoprof Asia, taking place from November 12 to 14 at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre, in the heart of the city center, will be characterised by two new specialised segments. Perfumery, Cosmetics & Nail will be dedicated to trends and innovations in the fragrance and cosmetics sector; Hair & Beauty Salon will focus on hair care for both professional and retail channels. Among the top exhibitors will be: Alta Care Laboratories, Beautisky, Caregen, Carelika, Eunsung, Ga. Ma., Gavrilis Group, HSA, Hengzhuo, Indiba, Incos, Inmode, Parlux, Sociètè Parisienne de Parfums & Cosmetiques, Vagheggi, and Wishpro by Synoia.

Special Area and Events Spotlight

A special focus will put a spotlight on fragrances, one of the fastest-growing segments in the region. While fragrances have been part of the show before, this year they will take center stage through a dedicated zone featuring two distinct areas: Fragrance Avenue, targeting mass-market brands, and Explorers by Esxence, an exclusive space organised in collaboration with Esxence, the leading international event for artistic perfumery. This marks the first time ever that niche fragrance companies will be showcased at Cosmoprof Asia.

This year, the Buyer Programme will host approximately 500 buyers from the event’s most strategic regions, including Asia Pacific, ASEAN countries, the Middle East, Europe, Africa and the Americas. The programme will introduce a new initiative, Elite Circle, designed to engage C-level executives from leading industry companies through exclusive, invitation-only seminars. These sessions will focus on current topics and provide valuable insights on navigating evolving market dynamics.

One of the most awaited initiatives at Cosmoprof Asia - the Cosmoprof and Cosmopack Asia Awards - organised in partnership with BEAUTYSTREAMS, will recognise innovation, excellence and quality in product development, packaging design, and formulation presented by 2025 exhibitors.

The exhibition will once again affirm its role as a hub for professional updates and education, thanks to its renowned formats featuring international experts and industry stakeholders. CosmoTalks will host over 30 top-level international speakers for insightful discussions on the most relevant topics for brands and companies investing in the region. Meanwhile, Cosmo Onstage will offer live demos and presentations by key industry influencers. To uncover the latest trends emerging directly from the show floor, the CosmoTrends Asia report, curated by BEAUTYSTREAMS, remains the go-to guide for trend scouts, buyers, media, and content creators. ■

The fair is open for pre-registration now. Visitors can register at https://tinyurl.com/4kuxb4xx to save HKD420 registration onsite. To discover what to expect from Cosmoprof Asia 2025, visit www.cosmoprof-asia.com

THE STORE-TO-SPA-CONVERSION: WHY RETAILERS KEEP OPENING TREATMENT ROOMS

Another day, another treatment space within a shop.

Kristie Lau-Adams explores the growing trend and its impact on established beauty professionals.

MOVE OVER Y2K makeup tutorials and ice-cream manicures — the beauty industry’s most buzzed-about social media posts are in-store unveilings of treatment rooms.

From Chanel’s semi-private skincare area in Canberra Centre and Clarins’ Skin

Atelier room in Sydney’s QVB, to Adore Beauty’s second Melbourne store offering skin analysis and facials inside Watergardens Shopping Centre, no state (or screen) is immune to brands bolstering strategies to enhance customer engagement.

For Adore Beauty, Australia’s first beauty e-commerce site founded in 2000, the decision to launch brick-and-mortar operations also stemmed from the customer.

The brand’s Chief Customer and Merchandise Officer, Jacq Vuleta, says Australian consumers show an insatiable thirst for broader education and deeper discovery.

“Our customers look to Adore Beauty for expertise, particularly on skincare,” Jacq explains. “We’re now able to double down here with treatment spaces and instore experts who provide bespoke recommendations. Here in Melbourne, many of our existing customers are going in-store and finding brands they have never purchased before, which underscores how important these environments are.”

Jacq adds that Adore Beauty’s two immersive stores are just the beginning of its offline offerings. “We haven’t been shy about laying down our ambitions to open 25 stores across Australia over the next few years,” she confirms.

Jurlique is demonstrating similar ambition as it celebrates 40 years of operations in 2025. In April, the skincare and cosmetics manufacturer opened its first concept store inside the Gold Coast’s Pacific Fair Shopping Centre, complete with a ‘Nature’s

Spa’ treatment room. Its Chadstone Shopping Centre store in Melbourne and Burnside Village store in South Australia, which both offer treatments, also underwent intermediate design tweaks as further locations are set to be revamped. Jurlique’s Global Brand and Marketing Director, Marion Goyet, says the design refresh is an imperative part of the brand’s business strategy.

“Our focus this year is on how we make the brand stickier, to ensure we can drive customers to stay loyal in an increasingly competitive environment,” Marion details. “To do this, we need to highlight our unique differences. We know customers are looking for brands that work, and so strong claims that demonstrate the efficacy of our products have become more important than ever.”

While these brands embark on bringing their products to life, others with renowned spa and clinic roots are leaning into historical learnings to create renewed customer connection. Clarins entered the international cosmetics industry just over 70 years ago, the brainchild of Jacques Courtin-Clarins, a former masseur who launched the brand as a Paris spa. After evolving Clarins’ global success via retail operations, the brand’s highly engaging Sydney flagship sees the brand return to its origins. Managing Director of Clarins Australia and New Zealand, Jerome Bellony, says extensive brand experience provides the business with a competitive edge. “Drawing on 70 years of professional spa expertise, Clarins has developed its expert touch,” Jerome explains. “During every treatment, beauty therapists adapt their movements and pressure to stimulate microcirculation and lymphatic drainage - leaving the skin smooth, the complexion radiant, and the entire body deeply relaxed.” ➤

Jerome adds that Clarins’ Sydney boutique will provide “crucial” insights and feedback to inform future expansion in other key markets.

It’s a similar story for La Prairie, a brand launched in 1931 as a health spa and laboratory in Switzerland. Today, the skincare company taps into its heritage to conduct pre-flight facials at Sydney International Airport and select David Jones boutiques across Australia. Head of Education at La Prairie, Freya Watson, says physical engagement led by the brand’s famed scientific backing opens the door to greater brand consistency. “For a heritage luxury skincare house defined by rarity, scientific precision, and artisanal craftsmanship, D2C is far more than a sales channel — it is a strategic touchpoint that allows La Prairie to fully own and curate the end-to-end customer experience,” Freya explains. “Direct engagement ensures that every element remains consistent.”

For established spa and clinic owners without the luxury of glitzy international marketing and airport or shopping centre foot traffic, the prospect of increased competition may be daunting. The savvier ones, however, are turning the trend into an opportunity to perfect their offerings. Director of Spa & Leisure at The Langham Gold Coast’s Chuan Spa, Emma Sirett, says that added competition fuels enhanced customer experiences. “We view this evolution as an opportunity to refine and reinforce our strengths such as personalisation, sensory immersion, and holistic care — all those luxury touchpoints that define a true spa experience,” Emma says before reiterating that Chuan, and all beauty businesses, boast their own unique selling points. “Our foundation lies in traditional Chinese medicine and the Five Elements — a philosophy woven through every treatment and touchpoint. This new trend is ultimately spotlighting the irreplaceable value of personalised, experience-led wellness.”

Skin guru Robyn McAlpine, the award-winning founder of SkintiFix skin clinic based in New South Wales’ Newcastle, echoes Emma’s sentiment. “It really keeps our industry on its toes,” Robyn says. “If we put aside the feeling of intimidation, we could learn a lot from how large brands create cult followers. Imagine if we, as skin experts, had the marketing skills, teams and budgets of these companies? Now that would be powerful.” ■

BEAUTY Professional Beauty

Breaking the skin compensation ceiling, the hype around the head spa, and going it alone as a nail technician.

Korea

Cos De BAHA RT Retinol Tranexamic Acid Cica and H Hyaluronic Acid Serum KausmediTech 0434 478 456 ELES Youth Recovery Sheet Mask Beauty Collective PRO 02 9948 1667 tHermoceutical Nexo MV12 Shot Masque and Cream Cosmeceutical Solutions 0412 056 472 DLUX Professional Pro Illumination Lash Lift Kit DLUX info@dluxprofessional.com.au

New Zealand

3K+ Manuka Clinicals Pore Minimizing Toner Manuka Bioscience hello@manukabioscience.co.nz Emma Lewisham Supernatural Blemish Face Serum Emma Lewisham www.emmalewisham.com.au ManukaRx Rejuvenating Manuka Oil Exfoliant Manuka Bioscience hello@manukabioscience.co.nz RAAIE Cocoon Ceramide Cream RAAIE wholesale@raaie.co.nz

ClearChoice Resist & Rewind Cleanser

Certified Skin Solutions natasha@certifiedskinsolutions.com.au

Norvell Glow System Prolong Extending Lotion Sunless 1800 960 010

DermaQuest MelaQuest Cream and C Infusion Eye Cream

Advanced Skin Technology 1800 648 851

Dermalogica PRO Pro Restore Dermalogica 02 8437 9600

Youngblood Mineral Radiance and Kabuki Brush in YB1

Professional Beauty Solutions 1800 625 387

esthemax Professional Hydrojelly Mask in NAD+ Longevity Spa Circle 0402 212 477 emepelle Serum, Night Cream and Eye Cream dermocosmetica 03 9454 0898

SkinCeuticals HA Intensifier Multi-Glycan

SkinCeuticals www.skinceuticals.com.au/become-a-stockist

HydroPeptide Collagen Reactive PM Lifting Treatment Moisturizer + Retinol Professional Beauty Solutions 1800 625 387

Longue Vie Regenerating Youth Cream Hamaya International 1300 811 024 Cible Skin Best-Sellers Box Set (Anti-Ageing & Hydrating) and Eye Roller Cible Skin Australia 0457 023 830 Payot Neo-Serum Rejuvenating Concentrate Payot 1300 367 969

Bader The Hydrogel Face Mask Augustinus Bader www.augustinusbader.com/au

SOTHYS Shower Gel and Nourishing Body Elixir in Cinnamon and Ginger Escape Manola 1800 816 599

Celestetic Global Perfect and Sensitive Perfect Cosmeceutical Solutions 0412 056 472 My Skin Chemistry Global Bright Radiant Cream, Perfect Eye Contour Cream, and PDRN B-Mask Monesthetica team@monesthetica.com.au /skin regimen/Lx Microalge Essence and Gua Sha BLC Cosmetics 02 8667 4695

Denmark

Beaute Pacifique Creme Symphonique

Day-Time, Night-Time and Eye Zone Gel

Beaute Pacifique 03 8201 7117

UK

Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced Advanced Cosmeceuticals Skin Group 1800 242 011

Jane Scrivner Luxury Cleansing Balm

Holistic Brand Partners 0439 370 435

Spain

Larimedical Comedopeel Oily Skin Serum with SPF

The Australian Dermal & Laser Institute 03 8001 5004

ANESI Lab Harmony SOS Rescue Serum National Salon Supplies 0412 546 093

Casmara Longevity Original Algae

Peel-Off Mask Vision Aesthetics 0433 666 666

Hungary

Eminence Organic Skin Care

Barbados Cherry Enzyme Cleansing Powder Green Living Collective 07 3357 6277

Greece

690

Juliette Armand Elements Hydra Cleansing Milk and Sensitive Cleansing Gel G & F Distributors 1300 522

FORMULA NO Right

Dermal therapist Madona El Machar is the owner of boutique Sydney skin clinic, Kaelon. According to Madona, treating the skin is a sophisticated and nuanced exercise in which no one skincare brand works for everyone. Madona breaks down her way of working to Hannah Gay

WHEN I first visited Kaelon four years ago, Madona’s skin ethos was the same as it is today: treat the skin of the individual with the right products for them. While this simple philosophy appears to ring true for the majority of aestheticians, Madona’s work is not controlled by any one brand. “I treat skin with the same respect and nuance you’d give to any living system,” she tells me. “It’s responsive, intelligent, and deeply individual. I take a considered and intuitive approach; it’s never just about what’s visible. I look beyond the surface: lifestyle, internal health, skin history. Every decision I make is about protecting and strengthening the skin and supporting it to function optimally rather than chasing short-term change.”

Rather than partner with a single supplier, she opts to take a less restrictive approach, instead housing products from countless companies to use at her

disposal. “Skin is far too complex to be served by one brand philosophy alone. While we share the same genetic foundation, our needs vary widely, from skin condition to texture preferences and even fragrance sensitivity. Different brands bring different strengths - some excel in barrier repair, others in delivery systems, and others in clinical actives. Drawing from multiple lines allows me to build more intelligent and targeted routines for my clients while having the freedom to mix and match backbar ranges.”

It takes the treatment personalisation process to new heights, allowing her to craft a truly bespoke regime for each individual skin presented on her clinic bed. Her approach is open and honest - a $20 cleanser may well be $150 cleanser to some. It’s not

Photography: Supplied

in the cost or flashy marketing behind a product that makes it great, but in the response it elicits in the right skin type.

“I’ve always championed the idea that no two skins - or people - are the same, and their needs shift constantly. Customisation allows me to respond to the skin in real time with precision. This approach delivers better and far more refined results because we can adapt to what the skin truly needs on the day, not just what it had six weeks ago. It also builds trust; people feel seen, not slotted into a protocol.”

Always curious, pushing boundaries, and experimenting, Madona argues she works with discernment. “I work with new formulas, technologies, and protocols in my own time, often on myself or with family and friends before they ever reach the treatment room. That willingness to experiment has allowed me to offer exclusive combinations to support clients with stubborn, complex concerns who have had unsuccessful treatment. Some of the best results I’ve seen have come from being willing to go beyond the standard and treat unorthodoxly.” For me, an ongoing case of perioral dermatitis would have Madona recommend an unlikely pairing of peels containing azaleic acid and trichloroacetic acid (or TCA), for example.

A quick peak at Madona’s current backbar displayed a mix of brands, including Murad, Casmara, iS Clinical, Cosmedix, and Biologique Recherche. Her retail wall sported MBR, SkinBetterScience, and iS Clinical (to name a few).

In fact, Madona is the sole Australian stockist of German brand MBR, I discover, and was the first to onboard revolutionary technology, Icoone.

“Icoone immediately stood out as different from anything else in the industry. It’s not just body or lymphatic work; it’s architecture and physiology in motion. The technology respects the skin while working with depth and precision, without trauma or downtime. It’s both gentle and powerful, functional and therapeutic, which is rare. That level of care and expertise aligned with my ethos perfectly and made the decision to invest feel natural. Dealing directly with the manufacturer gave me insight into their commitment to innovation and integrity, and ensured my training was to the highest global standard. They weren’t just selling a machine - they understood skin, fascia, connective tissue and lymphatics. It’s quite a powerhouse.”

She’s also a clear fan of Lutronic, having invested in Healite II, Ultra and Genius devices. “Each modality in the clinic plays a unique role. Some work on resurfacing texture, others on cellular communication and even bone density, while others focus on lymphatics, pigmentation, vascularity or tissue remodelling. They all complement each other and treat various layers. Access to multiple technologies allows me to layer and sequence treatments in a way that leads to truly transformative outcomes. Some skins need a gentler, more restorative approach, while others respond best to deeper, corrective work. Clients don’t always know exactly what their skin needs and that’s the beauty of tailored treatments. It’s never about doing more; it’s about doing what’s needed.”

With such a lean toward experimentation and investment in multiple modalities, I quiz Madona on the value she places on education. “I’ve invested more in education and clinical development than any other part of my business,” she admits. “Hundreds of hours and, truthfully, tens of thousands of dollars. It’s a constant, non-negotiable part of my journey as a skin therapist: travel, private mentorship, international certifications, and complementary therapies. I don’t believe anyone can claim to be a definitive ‘skin expert’ because science doesn’t offer absolute truths. The industry is constantly evolving, because science is. And if I want to continue leading with an evidence-based approach, I must evolve continuously.”

“My clients trust me to stay ahead of the latest advancements, and I take that responsibility seriously. It’s borderline obsessive - but I think they feel that. They know they’re in hands that never stop learning.”

And, it appears, they’re in the presence of a skincare candyland featuring flavours destined to suit even the pickiest of skins. ■

DEEP DELIVERY, VISIBLE RESULTS: THE POWER OF INTRACEUTICALS’ OXYGEN INFUSION SYSTEM

with Dr Josh Gosling, Head of R&D at Intraceuticals

Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusion: Technology That Delivers

Think of oxygen as the ultimate express delivery system. Intraceuticals’ proprietary, non-invasive hyperbaric oxygen infusion technology uses pressurised oxygen to deliver low molecular weight hyaluronic acid and targeted actives deep into the skin. By bypassing traditional absorption barriers, our professional serums reach the dermal layers where real change occurs, stimulating collagen synthesis, replenishing hydration, and calming inflammation at the source.

The result? Immediate improvements in radiance, plumpness, and comfort for clients. For practitioners, it means enhanced recovery, optimised clinical outcomes, and elevated client satisfaction.

The Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial works both as a standalone glow-boosting treatment and as a powerful complement to other aesthetic procedures. It’s particularly effective during the skin’s most vulnerable phases, pre and post-treatment. Before procedures like laser, RF microneedling, peels, or dermabrasion, the system primes and strengthens the skin barrier, reducing sensitivity and improving outcomes. Post-treatment, when skin is inflamed and compromised, it delivers targeted support, enhancing comfort and recovery.

Pressurised oxygen gently infuses actives without disrupting the skin barrier. Hyaluronic acid replenishes hydration and supports repair, while calming ingredients work with the skin’s natural healing cycle. Research confirms that increased oxygen supply enhances cellular activity, boosting keratinocyte and fibroblast function to promote collagen production and visibly improve skin texture.

Targeted Boosters for Intelligent Skincare

To further personalise treatments, Intraceuticals offers a range of professional-grade Boosters, each designed to address specific concerns and support both in-clinic and at-home care. Each Booster is available in two formats: a concentrated professional serum used during the Oxygen Facial and a complementary 30ml retail serum for daily use.

Vitamin B+3 Booster: Powered by Niacinamide, Panthenol, and Biotin, this formula soothes, hydrates, and strengthens the skin barrier - ideal for calming post-treatment redness and irritation.

Vitamin D3+ Booster: Enriched with vitamin D precursors and marine bioactives, it helps defend against environmental stressors while reinforcing skin function.

Bakuchiol Booster: A plant-based retinol alternative that smooths fine lines, evens tone, and enhances clarity - without the irritation often associated with traditional retinoids.

These clinically advanced formulations allow professionals to customise treatments based on skin type, life stage, and individual client concernsranging from barrier repair and collagen support to oxidative stress protection.

Personalisation Meets Performance

Today’s clients demand treatments tailored to their unique needs. The Intraceuticals Booster range allows practitioners to deliver highly customised, results-driven treatments. Each Booster activates on use, combining potent antioxidants and active ingredients to amplify visible results and support optimal skin health.

Trusted Technology, Proven Results

Intraceuticals has spent nearly 25 years refining its technology, protocols, and product formulations. Proudly Australian-made and globally trusted by dermatologists, clinicians, and celebrities alike, we are known for one thing: delivering visible results.

Partnering with Intraceuticals means more than offering a premium treatment - it means accessing robust clinical education, ongoing product innovation, and marketing support designed to help your business grow. Whether integrating Oxygen Facials as a signature service or using the system to support pre and post-care, our treatments are designed to keep clients returning and maximise your returns. ■

To discover more, visit www.intraceuticals.com/au/partner-with-us.

REFRAMING ACNE TREATMENT IN CLINIC

Shine Skin and Body Owner, Sheridan Rollard looks beyond topical 5-alpha reductase inhibitors in treating vulnerable skin.

AS SKIN therapists, we know that acne is never just a surface issue. It’s a multifactorial condition, and our role is to identify and treat the four key drivers we can influence: inflammation, hyperkeratinisation, bacteria, and the quality and quantity of oil.

While topical 5-alpha reductase inhibitors are excellent tools for managing oil, they’re just one piece of the puzzle; there’s so much more we can do.

There was a time when acne treatment relied heavily on acids. That approach is now outdated. With advances in skin science and ingredient technology, we understand that repeatedly compromising the barrier creates long-term issues - inflammation, post-inflammatory pigmentation, delayed healing, and even scarring. If the barrier is broken, no acne treatment will perform effectively. That’s why our first non-negotiable step must always be barrier repair. Only once the skin is stable and functioning can we begin to address the relevant acne drivers.

This is where a professional, simple skincare routine becomes powerful. It may not feel exciting, but it is essential. A quality cleanser, moisturiser and SPF lay the foundation for reducing chronic inflammation and rebalancing the skin. Get this right, and you’re already managing one of the four drivers: inflammation. Once the barrier is rebuilt, we can work more specifically. For excess oil production and poor-quality sebum, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) is one of the most underrated, yet powerful, ingredients we have. A component of green tea,

EGCG works by modulating the androgen receptor, reducing the first stage of hormonal conversion that contributes to increased sebum. It also helps regulate hyperkeratinisation, improving the skin’s natural desquamation process and reducing congestion.

To address the bacterial component, blue LED light is an excellent adjunct therapy. It specifically targets C. acnes bacteria, reducing its presence without disrupting the microbiome or compromising the barrier. It’s gentle, effective, and particularly beneficial in the early stages of treatment when skin may not yet tolerate actives.

The key is this is to not jump to acids or advanced treatments first. Instead, assess the skin in front of you. Which of the four acne drivers are active? Then select tools that address them directly, starting with barrier repair and moving forward with purpose. When you do this, you’re not just managing breakouts, you’re supporting long-term skin health and function. ■

TACKLING THE C O MPENSATI O N CEILING

For senior dermal therapists and clinicians, the primary ways to progress in their careers are to move into management roles or take the leap into business ownership. However, these options aren’t for everyone and leave practitioners with limited options to grow. We asked industry veterans, who found pathways beyond senior practitioner roles, to share their perspectives on the ‘compensation ceiling’.

Sarah Hughes, Learning and Development Manager at Dermalogica Australia:

“The compensation ceiling is a well-known phenomenon in the aesthetics industry. When I first entered the industry in the early 1990s, there was a hierarchy within the salons and clinics - with the best clients and promotions going to those who had worked in the clinic the longestnot based upon skill set.

Once the promotion to senior happened, there was nowhere else to go. The only options were to move to another clinic and start again, or to open your own clinic.

A senior practitioner does not earn a great deal more than a new dermal therapist. The pay ceiling is still very low, even though this person has invested a large sum of money into their qualifications and their career development.

This is one of the main reasons I moved into education. Not only do I love teaching and training, but it also provides me with greater career growth and opportunity.

“A SENIOR PRACTITIONER DOES NOT EARN A GREAT DEAL MORE THAN A NEW DERMAL THERAPIST. THE PAY CEILING IS STILL VERY LOW, EVEN THOUGH THIS PERSON HAS INVESTED A LARGE SUM OF MONEY INTO THEIR QUALIFICATIONS AND THEIR CAREER DEVELOPMENT.”

- Sarah Hughes.

Education and knowledge are always going to provide you with greater opportunities. The aesthetics industry is one of the fastest growing; a device, a technique, or an ingredient that you learned last year may be replaced, advanced, or improved the following year. The best advice I can give is to always remain current.

I think the first thing that needs to be changed is the pay structure. A greater remuneration package could always be considered to keep practitioners within the industry and within their roles. The company or clinic structure also needs to have clearer definition of the progression pathways open to seniors, to encourage them to stay onboard and not leave the industry.”

Sarah Hudson, Director of Skin by Sarah Hudson and Cutera Key

Opinion Leader:

“As a senior therapist, you have so much to offer! You have already dedicated so much time, education, and skills. Rather than leaving the industry, look at areas to pivot.

Reinvesting in a different area of education may be the key, such as going back to university and completing a Bachelor of Science (Cosmetic Chemistry). Maybe you have a love of social media? Investigate a Bachelor of Marketing and Communication. Or learn how to operate a successful medical clinic by enrolling into a Bachelor of Business. There are so many options, I feel leaving the industry should be the last option.

As a business owner, have conversations with your team. Career progression and financial compensation are not the only ways to encourage senior practitioners to stay within their role. You need to establish what motivates them. As an industry, we need to have more communication on pathways for senior practitioners and the steps they need to take to follow those pathways.

My advice to senior practitioners: approach industry peers you admire to understand how they achieved their goals, not just a quick Instagram message. Make the effort to approach or meet with them at seminars or industry events. Approach boutique recruitment agencies. Pay them for their advice in helping you to understand areas of the industry that may interest you, and how you can achieve those goals.

Professionally speaking, we are all responsible for our own careers and life paths. Our industry offers an enormous amount of potential to break through the compensation ceiling.”

“AS AN INDUSTRY, WE NEED TO HAVE MORE COMMUNICATION ON PATHWAYS FOR SENIOR PRACTITIONERS AND THE STEPS THEY NEED TO TAKE TO FOLLOW THOSE PATHWAYS.”

- Sarah Hudson.

Leelah Linke, Owner and Founder of St. Skin:

“I have personally, and seen peers, hit the compensation ceiling. This industry, regardless of how far it has grown and continues to grow, is still limited and vulnerable in some ways.

It is often small or medium-sized businesses that employ clinicians; businesses that can struggle to be financially viable and are vulnerable to the financial climate and volatility. This can make remuneration of staff limited or capped at certain percentages, to ensure the business is viable.

It's interesting that leadership is seen as the main step for career progression or growth. Leadership should be something fostered throughout a career, that it is part of growth, not just some future goal post to work towards.

I had seen little leadership development early on in my career. People were often rewarded with management roles due to the length of time they had worked for, not their ability or knowledge about how to develop people.

We are an industry undeniably built on the strength of women. There is a greater gender sway of female clinicians, but big life milestones, such as starting a family, may change their career pathway. They may no longer want to or be able to perform the tasks their role requires. It would be great to have support or grants from the government, especially for more female-led small businesses.

“LEADERSHIP SHOULD BE SOMETHING FOSTERED THROUGHOUT A CAREER, THAT IT IS PART OF GROWTH, NOT JUST SOME FUTURE GOAL POST TO WORK TOWARDS.”

- Leelah Linke.

There aren’t always clear growth pathways, and it can take a great deal of courage to seek opportunity out. The positive takeaway is that there are now many more pathways, opportunities and developments than just treating clients.” ■

TRIED-AND-TESTED

PB’s Editor-in-Chief, Hannah Gay underwent three unique facial experiences. Here’s what she made of them.

Vanessa Megan Golden Hour

Little epitomises luxury quite like 24-carat gold does, especially when integrated into a decadent, 60-minute facial experience. It’s this detail that underpins Vanessa Megan Naturaceutical Skincare’s latest facial offering: Golden Hour, or ‘the Golden Leaf facial’, as I like to remember it by. As anticipated, this treatment aims to build radiance in the skin; a golden glow. It’s in gold’s natural anti-ageing properties - including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits - that back the treatment’s efficacy. The use of gold is designed to stimulate collagen production, enhance skin elasticity, and visibly reduce the appearance of lines and wrinkles.

To finish, the active-rich Aeon Azure Regenerative Cream is typically applied, however Gosia opted to combine this with N.E.O. to tone down its impact. The Copper & Rose Firming Eye Cream topped off the treatment. “I love conducting treatments that are active, but also leave you coming out as though you’re walking on clouds,” Gosia shared. An ideal pairing of hard-working ingredients and moments of deep rest had me leaving the salon with an unmistakable glow - a glimmering complexion that caught the golden sun, reflecting the essence of true luxury.

COSMEDIX Customised Facial

Descending on Sydney and Melbourne in July was COSMEDIX’s global leadership team, visiting to officially launch the brand’s latest innovations: the Deep Sea Peel and ELITE DUO-A. As one of a select group of media invited to experience the launches at SELF by The Parlour Room in Randwick, I was privileged to be in the company of Lauren Ahearn, Global Vice President of COSMEDIX (USA); Courtney McClendon, Associate Director of Education (USA); and Heather Harrison, Managing Director of Advanced Skin Technology (AST).

I sat down with the team for a deep dive into their newest offerings. The Deep Sea Peel is the latest in a series of advanced anti-ageing protocols designed to treat a range of skin concerns. This level 2 peel is ideal for targeting fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, uneven pigmentation, and photodamage. Unlike traditional acid-based peels, it’s nonacidic and relies on manual exfoliation via spicules to slough away dead skin cells and refine texture.

To test its claims, I ventured to Sensations Boutique in Bronte to meet with salon owner and passionate skin therapist, Gosia Smorawinska. Gosia hosted me in a cosy, candle-lit room to set the scene - the perfect back-drop for an intimate and nurturing treatment with relaxation as an end goal.

The protocol involved a double cleanse, followed by a gentle exfoliation (the nature of which is customised to the client on the day). Vanessa Megan’s 24K Gold Auric Serum is then applied, followed by the brand’s award-winning N.E.O. [Nature’s Elixir Oil]. Gosia added a session of LED for me, given my weakened winter barrier. “It’s all about working with who I have, their energy, their needs, and making sure they feel comfortable,” she explained.

The star of the show - sheets of 24-carat gold leaf - were then carefully placed across the entirety of the face, like fitting together a puzzle. Gosia conducted a deep lymphatic and pressure point massage across the face, shoulders and décolletage “to remove swelling, tiredness, and tension” held in these areas, further enhancing circulation and luminosity. Leaves and oils were later removed with a hot towel. The revitalising Gold & Lime Caviar Coconut Membrane Sheet Mask was applied, with ingredients further infused using a vibration tool. A heavenly scalp massage also took place.

The result? A brighter complexion and long-term rejuvenation, typically following two to seven days of flaking.

As pregnancy is a contraindication for the Deep Sea Peel, I was instead offered a customised facial. I settled into the spacious treatment room and was welcomed by Brooke Wood, AST’s Clinical Educator, who created a bespoke 10-step protocol tailored to my hormonally sensitive, compromised complexion. The treatment began with a double cleanse using COSMEDIX’s Purity Solution and Gentle Clean, followed by the Surface Revival toner and Awaken gel mask paired with a restorative shoulder massage. Next came Remedy oil, combined with Pure C mixing crystals for a much-needed boost of vitamin C.

To finish, the protocol included the Pepoxide serum, Opti Crystal eye serum, Humidify hydrator, and Reduce serum. This considered approach made for a powerful re-introduction to a brand backed by over two decades of cosmeceutical research. COSMEDIX’s newest ELITE DUO-A - a 1% retinoid treatment developed in partnership with AST for the Australian and New Zealand markets - is just one of the many vitamin A innovations the brand has released over the years.

Photography: Supplied

While I had to pass on the Deep Sea Peel this time, I still received my COSMEDIX ‘fix’, leaving the salon with a lit-from-within glow. The highlight? Experiencing so much of the brand’s efficacious range in one sitting. The only challenge was choosing which of the at-home products to take with me to extend the results.

iS Clinical Flash Brightening Peel

When it comes to professional-grade, scienceled skincare, iS Clinical is one of the first brands that comes to mind. I’d experienced its formulations both in the treatment room and at home, and felt confident that its latest innovation - the Flash Brightening Peel - wouldn’t disappoint.

Treatments like this demand visible results - meticulously executed protocols that incorporate both heating and cooling techniques to awaken the skin from its slumber. This one delivered exactly that: instant radiance, with a glow that lingered for days. At the heart of the protocol was iS Clinical’s newest launch, the Extra Strength Active Peel Brightening System, presented in convenient, single-use

towelettes ideal for both clinical and at-home application.

Conducted at the stunning Langham Hotel in Sydney’s CBD, my treatment commenced with a signature double cleanse, followed by iS Clinical’s Tri-Active Exfoliating Masque. My therapist, iS Clinical’s NSW and ACT Territory Manager Nikki Vezza, opted out of extractions and moved straight into spritzing my face with the brand’s Copper Firming Mist. A second mask - the Clarifying Mud Masque - was then applied to further detoxify the skin of any dormant impurities.

The ‘spiciest’ step of them all came via application of the HydraIntensive Cooling Masque. The botanical-rich solution is designed to boost skin’s hydration levels. Nikki ran cold globes across my face for the duration of the mask to help ease my minor discomfort. Once the skin was in an homogenous state, the Extra Strength Active Peel Brightening System was used. The twostep process involved an advanced exfoliation by combining AHAs, BHAs, as well as soothing antioxidants to further drive hydration and even out skin texture. Following this, step 2 would serve as a neutraliser featuring the brand’s proprietary botanical Extremozyme® Technology (exosomes) and Tripeptide-1 (Copper Tripeptide-1).

Applications of the brand’s Youth Eye Complex, Copper Firming Mist, Repairative Moisture Emulson, and Eclipse completed the treatment. I experienced mild erythema in the hours following, which is typical of my skin. Yet, the resounding glow made it all worth it. This peel makes for the ideal ‘red carpet’ treatment. And with my very own Extra Strength Active Peel Brightening System making its way home with me, I’ve been able to near replicate my professional results with ease. ■

CASE STUDIES:

BIOMIMETIC CARE & THE POWER OF SKIN BARRIER REPAIR

By Paul Fister, Founder of OmniDerm

The role of the hydro-lipidic barrier in maintaining healthy, resilient skin is too often underestimated. In an era dominated by aggressive actives and daily exfoliation, the quiet strength of barrier repair is frequently overlooked. Yet, as these case studies show, biomimetic skincare can deliver extraordinary transformations - gently, effectively, and sustainably.

Case Study 1: A Gentle Approach for a Neglected Skin

Barry had long neglected his skin and felt self-conscious about his appearance. When he finally gathered the courage to seek help, his first visit to a local skin clinic was discouraging. Handed a price list and asked to choose a treatment on the spot, Barry felt overwhelmed and walked away.

His next stop was a clinic that stocks Dr. Spiller. There, the therapist listened with empathy, understood his concerns, and reassured him that real improvement was possible - with the right approach.

Over two months, Barry received three gentle enzyme treatments, followed by facials designed to rebuild and strengthen his compromised skin barrier. He also committed to a basic home care routine, including a biomimetic cleanser, toner, and moisturiser. The changes after just 60 days speak for themselves.

The Takeaway:

1. No one is beyond help. Age or neglect is never a disqualifier.

2. Be the expert. Clients are seeking your knowledge, not a menu of options. They want you to assess, guide, and lead them to the right solution.

Case Study 2: Restoring Rosacea-Affected Skin with Barrier Therapy

A client presented to Own Your Skin in Queensland’s Caloundra with a severe case of rosacea. He had tried a wide range of treatments - both topical and medical - without success. His skin remained inflamed, sensitive, and reactive.

The clinic owner took a different approach. She performed a gentle, supportive facial and prescribed the Dr. Spiller Rinazell Active Cream, formulated specifically to restore and strengthen the skin barrier. This cream features a patented peptide complex from Berlin, proven through both in vitro and in vivo testing to accelerate regeneration and calm inflammation.

The results after just seven days were remarkable, and a powerful testament to the skin’s ability to recover when its natural defences are supported.

Case Study 3: When ‘More’ Becomes Too Much

The current trend of daily exfoliation and constant stimulation of skin renewal can take a toll - often resulting in a weakened barrier and chronic, lowgrade inflammation. In some cases, the skin itself signals that it’s time to change course.

Jaymi, owner of The Natural Beauty Bar, experienced this firsthand. After extended use of a popular anti-ageing cosmeceutical range, her skin became sensitised and unpredictable. She switched to the Dr. Spiller biomimetic philosophy - a ‘work with the skin, not against it’ approach. With barriersupportive care and reduced stimulation, her skin regained clarity and comfort in just a few weeks.

The Takeaway: Repair Before Resurface

Barrier repair may not sound glamorous, but it is deeply effective. By aligning with the skin’s physiology instead of overriding it, we unlock lasting change: less inflammation, greater resilience, and a return to balance. In the hands of a knowledgeable therapist, biomimetic care is not just an alternative - it’s a superior way to prepare for in-clinic procedures and support it in its post-treatment recovery phase.

“BY ALIGNING WITH THE SKIN’S PHYSIOLOGY INSTEAD OF OVERRIDING IT, WE UNLOCK LASTING CHANGE LESS INFLAMMATION, GREATER RESILIENCE, AND A RETURN TO BALANCE.”

Dr. Spiller Biomimetic Skincare offers the ideal all-round toolkit for skin professionals, empowering them to deliver consistent, visible, and lasting results across a wide range of skin concerns. Whether treating barrier dysfunction, sensitivity, or premature aging, Dr. Spiller offers the versatile, physiologically aligned tools every skin expert needs to restore balance and deliver glowing beautiful skin. ■

For more information, contact OmniDerm on 03 9645 0200 or www.omniderm.com.au.

Photography: Supplied

TECH TREND: SKIN REJUVENATI O N

Visible Age Reverse, Guinot Australia, 1300 811 024

This non-invasive treatment modality visibly restores younger looking skin in just 30 minutes via vibrodermic and vibrosmoothing electrodes, vasodilation and cutaneous innovation.

Venus Versa Pro, Venus Aesthetic Intelligence, 0416 022 096

A next generation, multi-application platform combines RF, IPL and skin resurfacing to treat pigmentation, wrinkles and laxity.

EMFACE, BTL, 0435 769 639

Utilises three applications to treat the eye area, the face and the neck. Skin is lifted and tightened using RF and High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Stimulation (HIFES).

NeoGen EVO, Costec, 02 8331 8933

Tighten, resurface and regenerate in the one treatment using nitrogen gas converted into nitrogen plasma energy. This device can treat acne scarring, actinic keratosis, wrinkling, and remove superficial lesions.

Hydrafacial Syndeo, High Tech Medical, 1300 309 233

Conduct 12 different treatments with endless opportunities to personalise thanks to its patented Vortex-Fusion technology, automated serum selection tool, and varying exfoliation levels.

Compilation:

Ricky Allen/Photography:

Supplied

HYDRAFACIAL UNVEILS HYDRAFILLIC WITH PEP 9™ BOOSTER: THE FUTURE OF INTELLIGENT HYDRATION

Hydrafacial, the global pioneer in non-invasive skin health technologies, proudly unveils its latest innovation: HydraFillic with Pep 9™ Booster, a cutting-edge dermal hydration and rejuvenation serum designed to transform skin instantly and over time.

Building on Hydrafacial’s legacy of scientific innovation and results-driven treatments, HydraFillic introduces a powerful synergy of next-generation peptides, advanced hyaluronic acid complexes, and skin-barrier fortifying ingredients, all delivered through the proprietary Vortex-Fusion® system. This device-driven technology ensures deep delivery of active ingredients, optimising their efficacy and consistency across every skin type.

At the heart of this breakthrough formula is the Pep 9™ Complex, a curated blend of nine potent bioactive peptides known to mimic and stimulate the skin’s natural repair processes. These peptides help support collagen and elastin production, visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and improve overall skin firmness and tone.

HydraFillic isn’t just about hydration - it’s intelligent skin reprogramming Whether used as a targeted booster or as part of the premium Hydrafacial treatment, HydraFillic delivers a lifted, dewy, and youth-enhanced complexion in a single session, with results that continue to build over time.

The Science Behind Pep 9™: A New Era in Peptide Performance

At the core of HydraFillic is Hydrafacial’s proprietary Pep 9™ Complex, a clinically developed matrix of nine synergistic peptides, each selected for their ability to address distinct skin ageing pathways. Unlike generic peptide blends, Pep 9™ is formulated to work in tandem with the skin’s natural cellsignalling mechanisms, delivering results with both immediacy and longevity.

Each peptide in the complex has a targeted function, from stimulating collagen and elastin synthesis, to improving cellular communication, reducing inflammation, and enhancing skin barrier repair. Together, these peptides help restore structure, increase resilience, and visibly improve texture and tone.

Why Peptides Matter Now More Than Ever In today’s skincare landscape, peptides are the rising stars, and for good reason. These short-chain amino acids act as messengers within the skin, triggering vital processes such as collagen regeneration, hydration retention, and skin barrier repair. With age and environmental stressors, natural peptide production declines. But the Pep 9™ Complex is designed to step in and reverse the signs of time. In HydraFillic, this peptide power is paired with an intelligent matrix of high-performance ingredients to not only boost immediate glow, but works longterm to rebuild skin health from the inside out.

Star Ingredients:

• Pep 9™ Complex: A powerful matrix of nine bioactive peptides targeting wrinkle depth, firmness, and cellular communication

• Multi-weight Hyaluronic Acid: For both deep and surface hydration

• Niacinamide: Brightening and barrier support

• Ectoin: Environmental stress protection and skin integrity reinforcement. By targeting multiple pathways of skin ageing at once - including firmness, elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle formation - HydraFillic offers an unprecedented peptide-powered boost that works in both the short and long term. It’s not just hydration - it’s dermal intelligence

Key Benefits:

• Intensive, multi-layer hydration

• Visible plumping and increased firmness

• Boosted collagen synthesis via peptide action

• Improved skin elasticity, smoothness, and bounce

• Reinforced skin barrier and resilience over time

• Immediate glow with measurable long-term rejuvenation.

What sets Pep 9™ apart is how it’s optimised for delivery via Hydrafacial’s Vortex-Fusion® system, ensuring the peptides penetrate deeply and remain bioavailable where they’re needed most. This dual-action approach of highperformance ingredients plus patented delivery results in clinical-grade transformation without downtime

In short, Pep 9™ isn’t just about hydration or anti-ageing - it’s about rewiring skin behaviour, helping it function more youthfully from within. HydraFillic with Pep 9™ marks the arrival of smart, bioresponsive skincare, where science meets sensorial results in a single, game-changing booster.

Set Your Clinic Apart

With HydraFillic, skin clinics and aesthetic providers can set themselves apart by offering barrier-first, high-performance technology that redefines the way we approach visible skin rejuvenation. This premium, aesthetic-grade booster is ideal for all skin types, especially dehydrated, dull, ageing, or compromised skin. Whether you’re treating early signs of ageing or looking to amplify hydration and glow, HydraFillic provides a high-tech, hightouch solution to modern skin needs.

Launch Timeline:

• Clinic Sell-In: Available in certified Hydrafacial clinics across ANZ from July 28th, 2025

• Consumer Launch: August 11th, 2025

Want to Learn More?

To find out whether Hydrafacial is the right fit for your beauty or aesthetics business, call 1300 309 233 (AU) or 0800 888 135 (NZ), or email info@hydrafacial.com.au

I FINALLY GET THE HYPE AROUND THE FAMOUS KOREAN HEAD SPA,and so should You

Hannah Gay underwent the talked-about treatment at Beauty Unnie in Sydney’s West. Here’s what she learnt.

IT’S NO secret head spa treatments are making headway across beauty and hair destinations across Australia. Fuelled by the influence of J- and K-beauty appeal, social media promotion, and the arrival of local suppliers providing the tools of the trade, the humble head spa has officially graduated from its status as simply a ‘nice-to-have’ salon offering.

According to a report published by CosmeticsDesign x SPATE in April 2025*, the Popularity Index for US Google Search indicated +20.3% YOY growth in scalp searches, encouraged by a +112.2% YOY growth in TikTok views on scalp-related content. ‘Scalp Spa’ was flagged as a key TikTok trend, experiencing an uptick of +349.2% views for the year to January 2025.

The wellness boom is backing its rise. The head spa has, at times, been undersold as a simple fluff treatment; marketed to clients as a relaxation offering in exchange for a generous deposit and the chance to unwind. The famous waterfall feature, little more than a sensory gimmick. ➤

And while the head spa is distinctly relaxing - with its flat bed, warm water and perfectly pressurised massage - the Korean way is far more cumbersome than meets the eye.

“Korean head spas, while similar to the Japanese version, involve rest and relaxation. But they also prioritise deep scalp cleansing and treatment, viewing the scalp as an extension of the skin,” Nicky Kim-McCormack, Founding Director at Australian head spa supplier, HeadSpa Solutions explains. “They employ intensive, multi-step processes with exfoliation, specialised tools, and K-beauty products, often starting with an in-depth scalp analysis. This approach aims to remove buildup, improve scalp health, and promote hair growth, with visible results often tracked.”

Much like the multi-faceted routines we advocate for the skin, Korean head spas mimic in-clinic protocols, down to the deep clean. Often involved is a double cleanse (one of which is an exfoliating cleanse), advanced scalp analysis for targeted treatment, and intensive multi-step processes with emphasis on scalp health as the foundation for good hair. The use of innovative products and technology, and the provision of visible results, are near guaranteed. It’s an approach Nicky describes as “intensive” and “technologically solution-driven”.

The growing popularity of these diagnosticmeets-relaxation treatments can also be traced back to their highly personalised nature. The specific scalp conditions or hair concerns of the individual are considered, with treatments catered accordingly. The use of fermented ingredients, botanical extracts, and advanced formulations also add to treatments’ unique appeal. “Basically, I see it as Aussies becoming more clued-in about scalp care, wanting to relax, being influenced by global trends, and appreciating treatments that actually deliver visible results and fit into a self-care routine,” Nicky explains.

The holistic offering caught the attention of Beauty Unnie Founder, Sophia Lee who opted to complete a comprehensive training program through the Korea International Head Spa Association in 2023. This same training has now been brought Down Under by HeadSpa Solutions. Both theoretical and practical means of addressing scalp health were taught, with training conducted in a range of specialised care techniques. Sophia says with ongoing education on scalp and hair wellness, she looks forward to supporting more people in improving their quality of life.

I entrusted Sophia with my very own scalp and hair diagnosis - the first I’d tried of its kind. “Head spa treatments effectively remove

impurities through deep cleansing, detoxifying the scalp and creating an optimal environment for healthy hair growth,” Sophia explains. “This not only strengthens existing hair but also promotes the growth of new hair and prevents hair loss.” She also flagged hair thinning as a problem area for men and women alike. By massaging the scalp, blood circulation to this area is encouraged. “This supplies the scalp with abundant oxygen and nutrients, consequently stimulating the hair follicles, encouraging healthy hair growth, and slowing down the progression of hair loss.”

What read like another salon visit for skin diagnosis, my experience at Beauty Unnie commenced with a consultation. “When clients visit, we begin by filling out a scalp chart where we assess the main issues they are experiencing, as well as factors like their lifestyle, stress levels and the scalp care routine they follow at home. This allows us to gather crucial information and gain a clear understanding of their unique concerns.”

A scalp analysis device is then used to examine the condition of the scalpbetter recognised as the futuristic micro-camera woven through single, zoomedin hairs. It didn’t take long for Sophia to flag scalp redness, clogged pores, and thinning hair in me. She put these conditions down to excessive heat penetrating

“IT DIDN’T TAKE LONG FOR SOPHIA TO FLAG SCALP REDNESS, CLOGGED PORES, AND THINNING HAIR IN ME.”

“AT EACH STEP, A NEW, UNEXPECTED SENSATION ON THE SCALP WAS FELT. I MELTED INTO THE BED AS THE RIGOROUS CLEAN TOOK PLACE, BUT AT NO POINT WAS I IN PAIN OR UNCOMFORTABLE; QUITE THE OPPOSITE.”

from the scalp, as well as limited blood circulation. For others, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, and hair loss are also common side-effects.

“Excessive scalp heat can lead to inflammation, which may result in excessive sebum production, redness, itching, and other issues.” Where the dilation of blood vessels can initially increase blood flow to the scalp and potentially improve hair growth, “excessive or prolonged heat exposure can dry out the scalp, leading to irritation, flaking, and potentially inflammation, or disrupt the scalp’s natural oil production and pH balance, making it more vulnerable to damage and infection,” she warns.

HOW TO ADOPT HEAD SPA TREATMENTS INTO YOUR BUSINESS, ACCORDING TO NICKY KIM-MCCORMACK:

1. Acquire accredited training. “This foundational training will provide the necessary knowledge and skills to guide all subsequent decisions and steps, ensuring teams make informed choices about everything from service offerings to equipment and product selection, ultimately leading to a successful and reputable head spa service.”

2. Consider who your business is trying to attract, and what kind of head spa experience you’ll offer. “Will it focus on relaxation and pampering, surrounded by natural aesthetics? Or will it lean more towards treatment-based medispa? This is the fun, creative part so use your imagination!”

3. Assess your space and ensure you have a dedicated, relaxing area with the right plumbing and electricity. “Then it’s all about investing in good quality furniture - be it chairs or beds, scalp devices and tools, steamers, and effective product lines is crucial.”

4. Check local regulations and ensure you meet health and safety standards.

5. Invest in properly training your staff (beyond the initial training) on specific techniques, programs, and customer service. “Devise a solid marketing plan that highlights your unique services.”

6. Do some competitive research, and go try some head spa treatments yourselves!

The way to address these, I discover, is in cooling the scalp. This is conducted via Beauty Unnie’s ‘Cool Vibe’ program. “We apply ‘Steam Scaling’, ‘Air Injection’, and the ‘Cryo-Cooling device’ to effectively cleanse the pores, provide nourishment, and lower scalp temperature.” The $280, hour-long treatment is complemented by a relaxing lymph massage along the scalp and neck, shampoo, scalp mask and hair treatment, as well as a stimulating ‘water punch’ step where cool water is shot in intervals onto the scalp.

At each step, a new, unexpected sensation on the scalp was felt. I melted into the bed as the rigorous clean took place, but at no point was I in pain or uncomfortable; quite the opposite. Sophia’s Korean head spa was one of those treatments you truly didn’t want to end, as the weight of gravity lifted from the toes up through the top of the head. At treatment’s end, the scalp analysis device is used again to showcase the ‘after’. “This visual evidence of improvement helps clients recognise the positive changes made, and motivates them to commit to regular visits for continued scalp health.”

It’s no surprise Beauty Unnie has increased its client retention rate since adopting the service. The revenue generated per client has also grown, Sophia shares, due to the premium nature of the service. “Additionally, the variety of services has expanded our client base, and we have created an additional revenue stream through the sale of scalp care products,” she added. “For hair loss clients, we recommend a minimum 12-week program on account of the hair growth cycle.

Given customer satisfaction has increased, word-of-mouth referrals have naturally brought in new clients. These factors combined have resulted in a strong return on investment.” ■

* Source: CosmeticsDesign x SPATE, HAIR AND SCALP CARE: US MARKET OUTLOOK, April 2025. https://tinyurl.com/ywrkmyr9

EcoForia Loss Control range, Encore Beauty, 02 9686 3488

Natural ingredients like fermented chia extract and postbiotics work to control hair loss while strengthening the scalp’s protective barrier.

Fusion Mesotherapy F-Hair, Professional Beauty Solutions, 1800 625 387

Heroing Centella Asiatica and ginkgo extracts increase blood flow to the scalp, promoting hair growth when combined with other active ingredients.

TR E ATMENT TR E ND: HAIR RESTORATION

EmCyte PureTWO PRP, High Tech Medical, 1300 309 233

Work with the body, not against it, utilising platelet-derived exosomes and high mononuclear cells with controlled neutrophil content.

ASCE Plus Scalp Care HRLV, InMode, asceexosomes@inmodemd.com

Designed to stimulate hair follicle growth, improve scalp health, and reduce hair loss.

PrimaCure E 50-H for Hair, Austramedex, 03 9702 3119 Utilises exosomes collected from salmon testes cells and then cultivated in embryonic stem cell media.

Compilation: Hannah Gay/Photography: Supplied

Moor Spa Hair Vitality, Encore Beauty, 02 9686 3488

Awaken the scalp with this stimulating and supportive spritz containing extracts of nicotine and capsicum.

mesoestetic tricology Hair Growth

Intensive Lotion, Advanced Cosmeceuticals

Skin Group, 1800 242 011

This home care solution works to support hair growth, straight from anchorage of the scalp follicles.

Exomide Scalp Ampoule, Xytide, 1800 570 036

Innovation direct from South Korea, Exomide is the ideal solution to pair with scalp needling.

Dp Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW

Shampoo & Conditioner, DermapenWorld, 02 9889 3636

Infused with ceramides, proteins and collagen, EXO-GROW is ideal for those experiencing hair thinning or shedding.

Fotona X-Restart handpiece for use with the TimeWalker 4D, Innovative Medical Technologies, sales@innovative.com.au This brush-like attachment works to warm the scalp and stimulate blood circulation, encouraging hair growth.

Lutronic LaseMD ULTRA, Cryomed, 1300 346 448

For use on all FitzPatrick types, this device encourages hair growth via direct energy to the scalp.

KeraFactorMD In Office Treatment Serum, Cryomed, info@cryomed.com.au

BIG THINGThe next

As the ingestibles market continues to grow at rapid speed, product developers are eager to stand out from the pack. Four Australian brand founders share the ingredients they are most excited about in 2025.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus GUT5Y™

with Carla Oates of The Beauty Chef

“Lactobacillus rhamnosus GUT5Y™ is The Beauty Chef’s exclusive probiotic strain, which we use alongside our exclusive fermentation process Flora Culture® at our The Beauty Chef’s state-of-the-art Probiotic Lab in Sydney. It derives from one of the world’s most well-researched and documented probiotic strains and has been clinically studied to improve digestive wellbeing and skin health.

permeability. It also supports immune function, which in turn can help skin barrier function and integrity. Because Glow® and many of our other products are designed to work from the inside out, we use our exclusive fermentation process (Flora Culture®) alongside GUT5Y™ to ensure our ingredients are bioavailable (readily absorbed by the body) and teeming with pre, pro and postbiotics to support gut health. Working with our team of microbiologists at The Beauty Chef Probiotic Lab, we’re always looking for the most impactful and innovative ingredients that are backed by science in order to produce the most efficacious formulas. Given its clinical studies, the inclusion of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GUT5Y™ is integral - boosting the potency of our formulas for enhanced results.

Our skin and gut are in constant communication with one another via the gut-skin axis, so when you look after your digestive health, you’re looking after your skin health, too. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GUT5Y™ is shown in studies to support digestive wellbeing and skin health by bolstering intestinal barrier function and decreasing intestinal

Our products are multilayered with different ingredients (think Fortigel hydrolysed collagen peptides, postbiotics, and so on) to provide targeted solutions for specific skin, gut and wellness concerns. While GUT5Y™ underpins a lot of our formulas for digestive wellbeing and overall skin health, other inclusions like hydrolysed collagen peptides support collagen production, skin elasticity and hydration. Our formulas are complex, so your routine doesn’t have to be. We include ingredients that are skin and health-specific, while holistically supporting the gut through fermentation and ingredients like GUT5Y™.”

Interviews: Hannah Gay

Photography: Supplied

Algae Oil with

Terri Vinson-Jones of Synternals

“Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for our health, supporting everything from brain and heart function to skin health, vision and reducing inflammation in the body. Traditionally, fish oil has been the go-to source for Omega-3, but there’s a smarter, more ethical option: algae oil. Here’s why algae oil is the superior solution.

What Makes Omega-3 Fatty Acids So Important?

Omega-3 fatty acids are vital for maintaining our health, but our bodies can’t produce them naturally. We rely on dietary sources to supply these essential nutrients, primarily:

• DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): Crucial for brain, eye, and cell membrane health.

• EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid): Known for its anti-inflammatory benefits and cardiovascular support.

Traditionally, these fatty acids have been sourced from fish, but contemporary research* shows that the original source of DHA and EPA is microalgae, not fish. Fish acquire these nutrients by consuming algae, making algae oil a more efficient, direct and sustainable alternative.

Algae Oil v Fish Oil: A Clear Comparison

“Algae oil and fish oil may seem similar on the surface, but they differ significantly in sustainability, purity, and usability. Here’s how they stack up:

Algae Oil Fish Oil

Source

Sustainability

Purity

Taste/Smell

Dietary Suitability

Potency

Micro-algae (direct, plantlike source) Fish (secondary source)

Zero impact on marine ecosystems

Free from mercury and heavy metals

No fishy aftertaste

Vegan and vegetarianfriendly

High levels of EPA and DHA per serving

Overfishing threatens ocean biodiversity

May contain contaminants like mercury

Common fishy aftertaste

Not suitable for vegans

Potency varies based on source and processing

Why Algae Oil is the Future of Omega-3 Supplements

Sustainability at Its Core

Algae oil bypasses the need for fishing, protecting marine ecosystems and reducing overfishing. This makes it an environmentally friendly choice for those looking to reduce their impact on our planet.

Purity Without Compromise

Unlike fish oil, algae oil is free from harmful contaminants like mercury, lead, and other pollutants often found in marine life. This ensures a cleaner, safer Omega-3 supplement.

Enhanced Bioavailability

Algae oil is rich in DHA and EPA, providing the same health benefits as fish oil without inefficiencies. It’s especially effective for supporting:

• Brain health: Enhancing cognitive function and protecting neurons.

• Heart health: Reducing inflammation and supporting cardiovascular function.

• Skin health: Reducing inflammation, improving hydration, elasticity, and barrier function.

Why Choose AlgOmega*

For those looking to switch to a smarter Omega-3 solution, consider SynTernals AlgOmega-3. Sourced from pure marine algae, it delivers 300mg of EPA and 600mg of DHA per serving, benefitting:

• Brain and eye health

• Heart function

• Skin health, hydration and protection. Its triglyceride form, the most natural form available, ensures optimal absorption and bioavailability. This form is less prone to oxidation compared to ethyl ester forms, preserving the algal oil’s potency and stability. Its patented extraction process ensures purity and superior quality, while its eco-friendly sourcing makes it the more ethical choice.” ➤

* National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/ Omega3FattyAcids-HealthProfessional.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalised recommendations regarding your health. If taking AlgOmega-3, Always read the label and follow directions for use.

VERISOL®

“IT’S BEEN SHOWN TO DIRECTLY IMPROVE SKIN ELASTICITY, HYDRATION, AND DERMAL COLLAGEN DENSITY, MAKING IT ONE OF THE FEW INGESTIBLE INGREDIENTS THAT CAN LEGITIMATELY CLAIM TO REDUCE WRINKLES.”

with Rose Rayner Calmerceuticals

“VERISOL® is a clinically studied form of bioactive collagen peptides developed specifically for skin health. Unlike generic collagen powders, VERISOL® is made from hydrolysed Type I and III collagen, enzymatically broken into peptides with precise molecular weights (2.0–4.5 kDa) for maximum bioavailability. What makes it unique is that it’s backed by doubleblind, placebo-controlled human studies, not just animal trials or assumptions. It’s been shown to directly improve skin elasticity, hydration, and dermal collagen density, making it one of the few ingestible ingredients that can legitimately claim to reduce wrinkles.

Once ingested, VERISOL® peptides are absorbed through the gut and travel via the bloodstream to the dermal layer of the skin. There, they act as collagen messengers, triggering fibroblast cells to increase their own production of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. This isn’t surface-level beauty. VERISOL® works at the cellular level, rebuilding the skin from within.

Clinical studies have shown:

• Up to a 20% reduction in eye wrinkle volume in 8 weeks

• 65% increase in pro-collagen levels in the skin

• Significant improvement in skin elasticity and hydration in just 4–6 weeks.

I wasn’t willing to build a brand on half-truths or underdosed ineffective ingredients. VERISOL® isn’t marketing hype for sale; it’s pharmaceutically precise, bioavailable, and proven in peer-reviewed human trials to change the skin’s structure, not just temporarily hydrate it.

Most brands underdose collagen or use low-grade bovine blends that don’t do anything. Collagen also isn’t a solo act; it needs biological co-factors to perform optimally. I opted to combine VERISOL® with the following ingredients:

• Cultavit®, which delivers bioactivated B vitamins via quinoa sprouts, supporting cellular regeneration, mitochondrial function, and metabolic pathways essential for skin turnover.

• Fermented Kakadu Plum, the richest natural source of Vitamin C in the world (up to 100x oranges), is critical for proline and lysine hydroxylation - the chemical process that enables collagen synthesis. Each sachet has your entire RDI of Vitamin C.

• Hyaluronic Acid attracts and retains up to 1,000 times its weight in water, hydrating the dermis and giving that plump, dewy appearance.

• Polyphenols and antioxidants protect against collagen degradation caused by UV and environmental stressors, preserving the structure we rebuild.

It’s a multi-layered, synergistic formula; engineered to rebuild, protect, and deeply nourish the skin at the cellular level.”

of the most studied collagen peptides in the world. FORTIBONE® is clinically shown to increase bone mineral density and support skeletal strength. It stimulates bone-forming cells (osteoblasts), reduces bone breakdown (osteoclasts), and helps maintain joint mobility and resilience - essential for staying active, steady, and strong as you age. Whilst we know that women are concerned with skin and visible ageing, what is just as important is what is happening beneath the surface. This drop in collagen also affects our bones and mineral density, and fractures later in life are one of the biggest causes of a reduced quality of life. We use both VERISOL® and FORTIBONE® to give the best quality and the strongest collagen product profile available. VERISOL® supports your skin structure, whilst FORTIBONE® supports skeletal integrity. Revival is one of the few collagen products listed with the TGA, so has clinical data to support every claim we make.

We’re always looking for the world’s leading ingredients with scientific evidence behind them. We’ll only choose an ingredient we know works. We also know that collagen levels begin to plummet in your 40’s. Revival is a combination of these two specific collagen peptides, both designed to help women feel strong, confident and at home in bodies.” ■

Sunless tanning is no longer just a seasonal trend-it has become a rapidly growing industry positioned at the intersection of innovation, wellness, and skin health. We sat down with Karen Revell, Managing Director of Sunless Australia, to discuss the latest advancements, the importance of education, and how the industry is evolving to meet the needs of a new generation of beauty and wellness consumers.

Karen, tell us a little bit about Sunless Australia and what your business brings to the beauty industry.

Sunless Australia is the leading manufacturer and supplier of professional tanning and skincare equipment in the country. We bring fully automated spray tanning and skincare wellness booths, handheld spray tanning systems, tanning solutions, and a range of skincare and self-tanning products to the Australian market.

What makes your automated wellness booths stand out in the industry?

Our VersaSpa PRO Automated Wellness Booths-now enhanced with WELLFIT-go beyond a traditional spray tan. They offer a customisable, results-driven wellness experience, allowing clients to choose between a premium spray tan, a full-body WELLFIT skincare treatment, or a combination of both. This dual-service functionality elevates the client experience, expands service menus, increases visit frequency, and creates new revenue streams-all within a compact, fully automated unit. Engineered with innovation and efficiency at the forefront, the VersaSpa PRO with WELLFIT reflects the needs of today’s beauty-conscious consumer by delivering a nextgeneration solution that merges clean beauty, skin health, and convenience. It’s more than just a spray tan-it’s a complete beauty and wellness ritual.

Can you tell us about your handheld spray tanning offerings?

At Sunless Australia, we’re proud to bring you Norvellthe #1 selling brand in spray tanning solutions and equipment globally.

We offer two primary systems to suit different business models: the Oasis, a lightweight, portable unit ideal for mobile technicians or new professionals; and the MlOOO, a robust, salon-grade machine designed for consistent, highperformance results. To support businesses at every stage, we’ve developed our Business in a Box packages. These kits include everything needed to start or scale a sunless tanning business -from equipment and solutions to marketing resources and training support. Whether you’re investing in our fully equipped Complete Professional Kit or starting with the Oasis Starter Kit, our goal is to make success more accessible and sustainable.

Of course, we know that the right tools are only half the story. True success comes from combining great equipment with education, skill, and confidence.

You also place a strong focus on education. Can you tell us more about that?

Education is at the core of everything we do. Through The Norvell Training Institute, we’ve helped thousands of professionals worldwide gain the confidence and technical skills to build thriving spray tanning businesses. Our program-refined over decades-offers a comprehensive understanding of the art and science of sunless tanning. It covers product knowledge, application techniques, client consultations, and business development strategies. Whether you’re brand new to the industry or looking to refine your existing skills, our flexible training options-both Online and in-person-make it easy to learn from experts

“AT SUNLESS AUSTRALIA, WE’RE FOCUSED ON EQUIPPING PROFESSIONALS NOT JUST WITH THE BEST TOOLS, BUT WITH THE KNOWLEDGE AND SUPPORT THEY NEED TO STAY AHEAD IN ANY INCREASINGLY COMPETITIVE EXPERIENCE-DRIVEN MARKET!”

and join a global community of certified spray tan artists passionate about their craft. With Norvell training, you’re not just learning how to spray tan-you’re learning how to succeed. You can explore our education programs at sunlessaustralia.com.au

Where do you see the sunless tanning industry in the next five years?

The future of the sunless industry is incredibly bright. Over the next five years, we’ll see even greater demand for UVfree tanning options, driven by growing awareness around skin safety, wellness, and convenience. Technological advancements will continue to shape the industry. We expect smarter equipment, highly customisable solutions, and possibly even Al-driven tools that adapt treatments to suit individual skin types and preferences. As tanning merges further with wellness-through skinenhancing formulas, immersive booth experiences, and multifunctional services-the definition of a “spray tan” will continue to evolve.

For salons and professionals, the key to success will lie in education and innovation. Those who invest in premium tools and continuous learning will stand out. At Sunless Australia, we’re committed to equipping professionals with the resources and support they need to thrive in this fast-changing, experience-driven market.

Any thoughts you’d like to share with the beauty professionals considering sunless tanning services?

Sunless tanning has evolved far beyond a seasonal trend or secondary add-on-it’s now a sophisticated, year-round service that clients actively seek out. At Sunless Australia, we offer a complete ecosystem of solutions, from cuttingedge technology and premium products to comprehensive education. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, we’re here to help you deliver an exceptional client experience and build a successful business. If you’re attending the Beauty Expo in August, we’d love to connect. Visit us at Stand L103 to experience the future of sunless tanning first-hand.

What can attendees expect from Sunless Australia at this year’s Beauty Expo?

We’re thrilled to be exhibiting at Beauty Expo Australia for the third year in a row. Once again, we’ll offer complimentary spray tans and WELLFIT skincare treatments in our automated wellness booth, giving attendees a firsthand experience of how these advanced systems can enhance service offerings and client satisfaction. We’ll also showcase our full line of Norvell handheld equipment, tanning solutions, and retail products. Our team will be available to provide tailored advice and support for professionals looking to integrate these tools into their business. A highlight this year will be our main stage presentation, “Flawless Finish: The Art of Spray Tanning.” where we will demonstrate live spray tans on stage, sharing how to customise each application to suit different skin tones, body shapes and client needs. We’ll also dive into the dynamic world of competition tanning, a fast growing niche that’s opening up exciting new opportunities for spray tan artists ready to take their skills to the next level.

Connect with us at Beauty Expo Australia, ICC Sydney 16-17 August 2025 at Stand L103.

To learn more about Sunless Australia visit www.sunlessaustralia.com.au

WINTER IS SECRETLY PEAK GLOW SEASON

(If you know what to do with it)

It’s time to glow up, not give up, Rachel Medlock discovers.

WHEN THE temperature drops, so too, unsurprisingly, do tanning bookings. Or at least, that’s the belief many salon owners hold as winter creeps in and the bikinis head into hibernation.

But what if that seasonal slump is less about the weather… and more about mindset?

For Jasmine Scarr, founder of Bella Bronze Tan, with locations across Queensland and a namesake retail range stocked nationally, the cooler months don’t mark a slowdown; they mark a strategic shift. “Stop blaming winter,” she says. “It’s actually peak glow season in disguise.”

Jasmine reminds us that despite the chilly weather, Winter is packed with glow-worthy moments. “It’s wedding season, girls’ trip season, winery tours, hens weekends, and Euro getaways,” she explains. “Post-COVID, people are making up for lost time. Whether they’re heading abroad or staying local, they still want that bronzed confidence.”

That perspective - that a tan isn’t just for summer - is one tanning businesses need to embrace. “I tan for life, not just for events,” Jasmine adds. “It’s like great underwear. No one needs to see it for it to change how you feel.”

At Bella Bronze, winter planning starts six months in advance. “We map out school formals, build campaigns for hens groups and spring weddings, and extend trading hours to meet demand. Winter isn’t downtime; it’s a different kind of busy.”

While Jasmine’s talking tanning, her logic applies far beyond bronzed skin. Her approach offers valuable lessons for all beauty businesses seeking consistency throughout the year.

It begins with clear, targeted marketing that resonates with your ideal client and content that feels personal and purposeful. Think before-and-after photos, team introductions, and relatable client stories that build connections. Direct communication channels like SMS campaigns and referral incentives (like Jasmine’s ‘bring a bestie’ offer) also help fill booking gaps and keep clients coming back.

But perhaps Jasmine’s most valuable insight isn’t about marketing; it’s about mindset. “Firstly, take a deep breath. Seasonal slowdowns are completely normal,” she says. “Many salons experience a dip during winter, but that quieter period can actually be golden. It’s your chance to work on your business, not just in it.”

That might mean refreshing your space, upskilling your team, streamlining systems, or refining the client journey. Jasmine suggests using this seasonal shift to lay the groundwork for long-term growth, starting with the questions that keep bookings glowing: Is my rebooking process working? Am I speaking to the right people on social media? Does my website still reflect the brand I’ve built, or is it due for a glow-up of its own?

So rather than writing off June to August as a guaranteed slump, reframe winter as a golden opportunity. One that’s not just about selling the glow but positioning it as a year-round essential.

Because as Jasmine puts it, “You’re not selling a tan. You’re selling the feeling that comes with it.”

And that doesn’t have a season. ■

TRENDING SERVICE: SCAR CAMOUFLAGING

Medical tattooist and owner of Perth’s B&S Cosmetic Tattooing, Jadene Channon fills Kristie Lau-Adams in on the delicate art of concealing fibrous tissue.

AS COSMETIC tattooing diversifies, winning new fans right across Australia, technological advances and refined products have pushed pigment into the world of skin injuries. Scar camouflaging, a specialised method of paramedical tattooing, has flourished over the past five years, leading to the rise of niche businesses that focus on minimising the appearance of discoloured fibrous tissue.

One of those businesses is B&S Cosmetic Tattooing, a scar camouflaging clinic with two Western Australian locations. Led by medical tattooist Jadene Channon, its operations involve implanting custom-matched skin tone pigments within hyperpigmented areas - such as scars or stretch marks - to blend into the surrounding skin.

Jadene emphasises the service’s strength in working with scars rather than masking them entirely. “This is not a decorative or artistic tattoo,” she explains. “The goal is not to cover scars with artwork, but instead, reduce their visibility in a natural-looking way so they’re less noticeable dayto-day.”

To ensure effective results, Jadene notes that scars must be fully healed, more than 12 months old and appear flat and smooth in texture - think those caused by cosmetic surgery procedures including abdominoplasty or breast augmentation, caesarean sections, stretch marks, laser burns, hyperpigmentation, acne scarring and selfinflicted wounds.

According to Jadene, scar camouflaging can often pave a path to profound emotional healing. “One of the most powerful parts of this work is witnessing the emotional shift in someone who has spent years trying to hide a scar they’ve never felt at ease with,” she explains. “They’ve tried every cream, various treatments and have often been left to carry the burden alone. This is about helping someone feel less defined by the marks that linger on their skin.”

The service typically starts with a consultation and assessment, where a client’s medical history and personal goals are disclosed. Then, sessions are scheduled depending on the required treatment. “A general scar-targeted session takes approximately two hours, whereas a stretch mark

session can take up to four hours,” Jadene says. “Session tallies are unique to individuals and can depend on size and the body’s response. Most clients typically book between two to five sessions at minimum.”

Healing time should also be discussed before a treatment plan is cemented. “It can take six to 12 weeks, maybe more, and those with higher Fitzpatrick skin types require the most healing,” Jadene says, referring to an individual’s response to ultraviolent light.

For cosmetic tattooing businesses to add skin camouflaging to their repertoire, Jadene stresses the need for advanced professional training. “An understanding of wound healing, pigment behaviour and scar physiology is crucial,” Jadene says. “Be thorough when choosing your training, too. Consider how long the trainer has worked, whether they’re still actively treating clients themselves, what practical application and post-course support is offered, and investigate feedback from past students.”

Once clinics are ready to go, Jadene recommends creating a calm and private space where clients can feel safe, open and vulnerable. “This service can be life changing but it must be approached with care and in-depth education. Most importantly, a client’s comfort and wellbeing must at the forefront,” she advises. ■

B&S Cosmetic Tattooing.

ü Honest beauty, simple routines and quality skin care

ü Innovative plant-based formulas and scientifically proven ingredients

ü High quality Vitamins, Bio-Derived Hyaluronic Acid, Retinol and anti-ageing Centella

ü High water-binding technology for ultimate hydration and performance

THE RISE AND RISE OF GUIYA MINERALS

Rachel Medlock unpacks the fastest growing pro makeup brand in Australia.

BELL BARCA didn’t set out to disrupt the professional makeup category. She set out to solve a problem she observed daily in her medispas. With a background in dermal science, she’d witnessed carefully curated skin treatments come undone the moment a client reached for their makeup bag.

“I wanted makeup that treated the skin with the same respect we give during a facial,” she explains.

That disconnect was the starting point for Guiya Minerals. Since launching in 2023, Bell’s brand has been embraced by more than 200 Australian beauty businesses. Its success stems from addressing a long-standing gap in the professional beauty space - cosmetics that genuinely complement professional treatments.

“Healthy skin doesn’t end when the facial does. The second a client walks out the door, whatever’s on their skin matters,” says Bell. “Salons and spas undo the work of professional treatments when they don’t prescribe makeup.”

Post-treatment and barrier-compromised skin can be particularly vulnerable to comedogenic ingredients, irritants or drying agents found in conventional makeup. If clinicians aren’t asking clients what makeup they’re using during consultations, they may be overlooking a major factor in clinical outcomes.

Guiya addresses this with mineral-based, treatment-friendly formulations that therapists can confidently recommend as part of their clients’ homecare routine. Bell adds that their hero product, the Z-Cote Zinc BB Cream, features protective, calming properties that work harmoniously with post-recovery complexions.

That same consideration flows through Guiya’s ingredient approach. Around 85–90% of its formulas are naturally derived, with many extracts organically harvested in Australia, but Bell doesn’t position Guiya as a purist. Instead, the brand leans into an “Ingredient Transparency Without The Fear” ethos, clearly explaining why select emollients, silicones, and preservatives are integral for performance and safety.

While Australian regulations permit ingredients under 1% to be excluded from packaging, Guiya lists all of them, paired with an online glossary and cleanliness rating, to help clinics educate their clients with confidence.

This transparency resonates with professionals navigating the ambiguity of ‘clean beauty’ - a term that remains undefined and unregulated. With many brands relying on fear-based messaging or vague claims, Guiya’s science-led explanations offer a welcomed shift.

The brand’s curated range appeals to clinics seeking simplicity. With approachable opening orders and manageable stock requirements, Guiya offers a low-barrier way to integrate professional makeup into the retail mix. The collection focuses on the essentials, allowing therapists to create a capsule makeup prescription for each client.

Stockist support has also been a driver of Guiya’s success. “We fiercely protect salon integrity. No big online retailers. No discount chaos. Just a brand built for professionals,” Bell explains.

“We don’t just drop a box and disappear. We train teams, offer marketing support, help with shade matching, offer monthly incentives, and cheer you on. We hear all the time, ‘I’ve never felt this supported by a makeup brand before.”

The brand’s ethical and environmental commitments add another layer of alignment with values-led clinics. Guiya is produced in small batches, uses recyclable packaging, and works with a local supply chain. Any excess stock is donated to not-for-profits supporting women rebuilding after domestic and family violence.

Guiya’s growth may look seamless from the outside, but Bell is quick to share that it was anything but. “Even though I’d successfully run medispas before, starting Guiya was like stepping into an entirely new universe,” she says. “I made every classic first-time founder mistake.”

That included 30,000 aluminium tubes scrapped after clashing with the formula, a brand ambassador deal that disappeared along with a $27,000 deposit, and a business decision made without safeguards that cost her everything, including the roof over her head.

These moments, while confronting, reshaped her as a founder. “The universe wasn’t testing me. It was training me. I had to strip back everything I thought I knew and build from instinct, values, and resilience.”

As for balancing a rapidly scaling business with family life? Bell’s honest. “Most days it’s 6am spreadsheets; some days it’s Bluey on in the background while I take calls,” she explains. “I don’t have balance; I have priorities. My son is part of my ‘why,’ so I fiercely protect my time with him… Would I clone myself 52 times if I could? Absolutely.”

As Guiya continues to grow and international expansion is on the radar, Bell is clear that Guiya will remain Australian-made and salon-first. “Guiya’s heart stays home,” she says.

For now, the focus is on supporting their existing salon network and encouraging more clinics to integrate makeup intentionally into their service model.

“Makeup and skincare aren’t separate. They’re a duo,” Bell says. “If clients aren’t getting those recommendations from you, they’re getting them somewhere else.”

Guiya’s rise is a reminder that for results that last beyond the treatment room, makeup isn’t optional; it’s part of the prescription. ■

Photography: Supplied

Creating the Ripple Effect of Referrals

Ripplebox is the beauty industry's smart new growth companion.

Created for salons and beauty professionals, this digital referr of-mouth into a streamlined, trackable strategy. By seamlessly m loyal clients when they share the love— new business is created with complicated systems. Just simple, organic growth powered by the people who already love what you do.

For salons and online product brands Customisable

EMPOWERING THE PRIVATE NAIL TECH

Nail

technician, Emily Farrier breaks down the pros and cons of going it alone.

Talk us through the education you’ve undertaken in nails.

“My formal education was back in the UK, however I undertake regular online masterclasses from other brands and nail techs around the world to stay on top of my education, trends, and general movements within the industry. It’s also great to gather different perspectives to tailor your services to different skin and nail types.”

What services do you offer?

“I am a gel-only nail technician. While the majority of my services are BIAB (Builder-in-a-Bottle), I also do gel polish (commonly known as Shellac), hard gel and Gel-X extensions. While being a specialist in natural nails and gel, I will always ensure I have a product suitable for each of my clients, as it’s not a ‘one size fits all’.”

You currently operate out of Fayshell in Sydney’s North Shore. How did this partnership come about?

“I live in the area and it’s hard to deny their clinic isn’t crazily aesthetic or eye-catching! I would see clients come and go from there and I thought to myself, ‘they are my kind of clients!’ I called up to see if they were interested in partnering up and if they had space. We met and chatted through it, and here we are. It’s been an amazing partnership - we have the same values in our businesses, and thrive off making our clients feel beautiful in their own skin.”

“SOCIAL MEDIA AND AN ONLINE PRESENCE HAS REALLY EXPANDED OUR INDUSTRY CAPABILITIES!”

trading, or educational space. Private nail techs aren’t just limited to in-person services anymore. Social media and an online presence has really expanded our industry capabilities! It would be hard work, although what is worth having that isn’t hard work?!”

Discuss the benefits of operating as a private nail tech, compared to being a member of staff within a larger team.

“Being a stand-alone nail tech has amazing benefits! Being your own boss, being in charge of your day-to-day, but most of all, being one-on-one with all your clients in such a personal capacity really allows you to get to know everyone. It’s a real honour to be a part of their lives and go through such huge life milestones, like getting married, having babies, and celebrating promotions. I don’t think there are many professions that allow you to sit and chit-chat all day every day!”

Is this the only bricks-and-mortar space you operate out of?

“Yes. However, there is definitely room to expand Ems Nails Designs, whether that be in the service,

And discuss some of the disadvantages.

“The same as anyone who’s self-employed - you miss out on a lot of employer benefits: no sick pay, no annual leave, no superannuation, and no maternity leave. It can be very stressful planning around all of that. The expenses and products within the nail industry also cost a lot more than what people think, so it can be a real struggle trying to budget and work around prices in order to pay myself a decent wage.”

For other nail techs hoping to go out on their own, what advice would you give them?

“Believe in yourself! The majority of what it takes to be a private nail tech is in your confidence, your ability to be personable with your clients, and to push yourself to practice, practice, practice! Never stop learning and don’t get sucked into cutting corners to save time or money. I have noticed more now than ever that clients are desperately trying to move away from the high street salons and into private nail technicians, as they are becoming more aware of health, safety, quality, and consistency. Be that person for them.” ■

THE JAPANESE MANICURE

While kawaii, Harajuku-inspired nail designs have long been popular. Yet, could an elegant and elevated manicure be taking over? Amy Hadley investigates.

MANICURE STYLES often take cues from what’s current in fashion, design, and lifestyle. As a major cultural exporter and one of Australia’s favourite travel destinations, it makes sense that Japan’s influence is inspiring trends in the Australian nail industry.

“The Japanese manicure is a growing movement in the beauty industry that celebrates natural, healthy nails,” Emma Hall, founder and owner of Hallédays nail salon in Mount Lawley, Perth, tells PB. “It’s all about stepping away from polish, gels, and artificial enhancements and instead, focusing on restoring and maintaining the natural nail.”

At Hallédays, a Japanese manicure starts with cuticle work and nail buffing to create a clean, smooth base. The next step involves massaging a nutrient-rich beeswax paste into the nail to promote hydration and nourishment. Finally, a fine, talcbased powder buffed onto the nail helps seal in nutrients and create a natural-looking gloss. Results typically last one to two weeks.

Curious about this treatment’s relevance in Japan, I took the opportunity to ask my husband’s cousin, Mio Ito, about this manicure trend. Mio, who lives in the capital of Hyōgo Prefecture, Kobe, says she hasn’t experienced this specific type of manicure in Japan before.

“I’ve never seen this type of manicure at the store I go to,” she notes. “Everyone around me is doing gel nails!” Mio sent me references to nail polish shades that are popular at the moment, including Chanel’s La Base Camélia and Boy De Chanel Le Vernis. However, Japanese manicure services available in Australia do reflect how many people in Japan care for their nails.

“When I was a student, teachers would get angry if we wore nail polish, so we used clear polish or just took care of our natural nails,” Mio says. “Also, in Japan, some jobs don’t allow flashy nails, so I think this kind of manicure is a good option for those people.”

Mio noted that she and her friends use Ettusais Nail Cosmetic Serum Quick Care Coat. At the time of writing, it’s the number one best-seller in the Nail Strengtheners category on Amazon Japan. It contains nourishing ingredients to support nail health, like the paste and powder used at Hallédays.

“Clients are genuinely surprised by how beautiful their natural nails can look without any polish at all,” Emma explains. “Once they experience the results - healthy, glossy, refined nails - they often come back requesting it again.”

Japanese manicures are purposefully low maintenance, particularly compared to gels or acrylics. They require less upkeep, therefore fewer salon visits and ongoing costs, which Emma says can be a financially savvy choice.

“While the rise of Japanese manicures isn’t directly a response to the cost-of-living crisis, it does reflect a broader cultural shift toward wellness and mindful self-care that’s happening alongside it,” she adds. “So, while wellness is the main driver, the practical benefits do resonate with clients managing their budgets carefully.”

For nail salons wishing to expand their offering with a Japanese manicure, Emma recommends educating clients on its restorative nail health benefits and positioning it as a luxurious nail wellness treatment.

“In terms of pricing, it should reflect the skill, time, and care involved - often comparable to or slightly higher than a standard gel manicure,” she says. “I also see great potential for making this treatment even more indulgent by bundling it with extras like a soothing hand massage or a paraffin wax treatment, turning it into a full spa ritual.” ■

THE FRANCHISEFormula

Shahin and Kunal Joshi are the founders of several Bang on Brows locations. They caught up with Hannah Gay to reveal all on what it takes to operate a beauty franchise.

Shahin and Kunal, briefly run us through the roles you’ve held in the beauty industry in the lead-up to founding Bang on Brows?

“We come from different but complementary backgrounds. Shahin has a strong foundation in accounting and commerce, and has been working in the beauty industry since 2009. Kunal brings experience in commerce, sales, and management, with a focus on business operations and team leadership. Together, we co-operated three beauty salons as franchisees, which gave us valuable hands-on experience in both the service and business sides of the industry. This journey inspired us to create Bang on Brows: a brand built on our shared values, high standards, and a desire to offer a better experience for clients and franchisees alike.”

What had you come to learn about the insand-outs of the franchising model before establishing Bang on Brows?

“Before establishing Bang on Brows, we were part of another franchise model. This gave us our first exposure to the behind-the-scenes responsibilities of running a business, such as admin, compliance, and team management. It also opened our eyes to some of the challenges within franchising, including compliance issues, and the unfair treatment of franchisees, employees, and clients. That experience was incredibly valuable, teaching us not only what to do, but more importantly, what to avoid. After stepping away from that brand, we were driven to build Bang on Brows with fairness, transparency, and strong support at its core.”

What gap was missing from the market that Bang on Brows sought to fill?

“Bang on Brows identified a gap in the market for premium brow and lash services that were both affordable and accessible. Many clients were either overpaying for high-end treatments or settling for inconsistent quality at lower-tier salons. Bang on Brows bridges this gap by offering expertly delivered services at reasonable prices, conveniently located in shopping centres and high-traffic areas. Our highly trained and qualified staff ensure a professional, consistent experience every time.”

How many Bang on Brows shopfronts do you currently operate?

“Bang on Brows currently operates a total of six

store locations, all based in high-traffic shopping centres for optimal convenience. Four of these stores are directly operated by the franchisor, while the remaining two are franchised and run by former staff members who have grown within the brand. This model allows us to maintain strong quality control while also empowering our team to become successful business owners. It reflects our commitment to both excellence and internal growth.”

What are some processes you’ve put in place to secure the right franchisees?

“At Bang on Brows, we prefer awarding franchises to existing employees, as they have hands-on experience, know the business inside out, and often transition into stores they’ve already worked in. While we remain open to external applicants, internal candidates are better positioned to make informed decisions and uphold our brand standards. This approach not only ensures a smoother handover and continued success but also means there are no abrupt staff changes in the eyes of our clients, maintaining trust and consistency.”

What makes becoming a franchisee an ideal career move for beauty professionals?

“For beauty professionals who are passionate about what they do, becoming a franchisee is the perfect opportunity to take control of their career while continuing to do the work they love. While many beauticians have strong onthe-floor experience, they often lack exposure to the behind-the-scenes aspects of running a business, such as administration, accounting, leasing, product sourcing, staffing, compliance, and marketing. These areas can be overwhelming to navigate alone. Joining a franchised system like Bang on Brows helps eliminate these challenges by providing structure, support, and proven systems, allowing professionals to thrive as business owners without starting from scratch.”

Have you faced any major hurdles in the set-up of your salons?

“Yes. As a new business, there were challenges across all departments, whether it was in setting up systems, building a team, or creating brand awareness. However, the most difficult part by far was leasing. Trying to secure a space as an unknown brand was tough, with landlords hesitant to take a risk and little to no negotiation power on our side. It was a steep climb, but one that became easier as the brand established itself.”

What advice would you pass onto beauty professionals looking to enter the franchise model in any capacity?

“Our biggest advice is not to rely solely on the strength of the brand. While a well-known name helps, success still depends on doing your homework, understanding the local market, customer preferences and competition. For instance, a premium beauty service may not thrive in an area where budgetfriendly options dominate. Take your time to do the research, including location, foot traffic and demand, and speak with existing franchisees before making the leap. Planning is key to long-term success.” ■

Photography: Supplied

LASH & BROW INNOVATION. NO COMPROMISES. ALL PERFORMANCE.

Who is DLUX PRO?

For over 20 years, DLUX Professional has been setting the global benchmark in lash and brow technology. Born from the precision of Korean beauty science and now exclusive to Australia, DLUX is the brand for professionals who want more than just great results - they want consistency, safety, innovation, and a system that works as hard as they do.

Trusted in over 42 countries and backed by 18+ international patents, DLUX isn’t just another brand. DLUX Professional brings a level of product development rarely seen in the lash and brow space. It’s a movement built for the next generation of lash and brow professionals.

Why DLUX?

DLUX delivers clean formulations, smarter systems, and performance-driven design that elevate every treatment, whether you’re lifting, laminating, extending, or tinting.

• Aminosan 17 Complex powers the range - a signature blend of 17 amino acids that strengthen, hydrate, and protect every lash and brow hair.

• ISO-Certified Korean manufacturing guarantees purity, performance, and peace of mind.

• Record 9-week retention adhesives, ultra-soft lash extensions, and precision tools help you work faster, smarter, and with total confidence. This is innovation that shows in your results, and keeps your clients coming back.

What’s in the range?

DLUX brings you a full suite of products designed to perform together, so you can deliver flawless results with less effort and more consistency. It’s a purposefully engineered system. Each product complements the next, creating seamless treatments, standout results, and long-term client trust.

Lash Extensions

Ultra-soft mink lashes in multiple curls, lengths, and thicknesses for every technique, from classic to volume. Paired with fast-drying, long-hold adhesives (0.5–4 seconds) tested for up to 9 weeks' retention.

Lash Lift

The Illumination System is a game-changer. Gentle, damage-free, and infused with Aminosan 17. Available in sachets that offer almost double the treatment services from 1ml. Lift lasts up to 8 weeks. Bonus: custom silicone shields for full styling control.

Brow Lamination

Create clean, sculpted brows with DLUX lamination kits. Includes pre-care primer and post-care conditioning, and with tints to match. Brow tinting is elevated with the DLUX Art Tint Range, a hybrid formula boosted with Vitamin C, and amino acids.

Aftercare and Retail

From LaShampoo and growth serums, to makeup removers, moisture masks, and keratin-infused finishes - DLUX keeps clients looking their best between appointments and boosts your retail revenue.

Pro Tools

Artist-designed tools that feel as good as they perform: isolation tweezers, scissors, jade stones, brushes, blowers, and more.

Why salons are switching

• Performance you can see

• Safety you can trust

• A full system that elevates your artistry and improves workflow

• Retail-friendly packaging and high-margin add-ons

• Exclusivity in Australia through select distributors.

For Australian artists seeking premium-grade performance with the support of proven K-Beauty science, DLUX Professional is more than a brandit’s a strategic upgrade. DLUX isn't just keeping up with the industry. It’s redefining it.

Ready to upgrade?

DLUX isn’t just another supplier. It’s your new business partner in beauty performance. Join the DLUX Pro movement.

DLUX Professional Australia: redefining beauty tools for a new generation.

We offer exclusive opportunities for salons to stock the DLUX range, as well as unique distribution and training opportunities.

TRY OUR LASH LIFT FOR FREE WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE LIMITED TIME OFFER.

Scan the QR code above and use code: PROBEAUTY

Follow the movement on Instagram at www.instagram.com/dluxpro_australia. For more information, email info@dluxprofessional.com.au ■

HOW TO UPSELL YOUR WAXING SERVICES

UPSELLING WAXING services or products is a skill that even experienced therapists may feel reluctant to practice. No one wants to be perceived as pushy or risk losing a client by chasing a few extra dollars. However, when executed well, upselling can strengthen your relationship with clients and provide an opportunity to demonstrate expertise.

“Upselling builds trust and a professional relationship with your client,” LYCON Cosmetics’ expert team of Beauty Therapists and Educators shares with PB “Anticipating their needs as a professional therapist is an important part of the role. It goes hand-in-hand with educating your clients on the best way to achieve results for whichever treatment they are having.”

Upselling waxing services requires a high level of tact and consideration. A client’s body hair preferences are a very personal choice, so therapists must be mindful not to trigger insecurities or defensiveness in their attempt to upsell.

“We recommend briefing your client on all services the salon offers, especially for first-time clients,” the LYCON Cosmetics team explains. “As you start to get to know your client, they may be comfortable sharing whether they choose to keep body hair or not. It is crucial to not be pushy or insensitive around this topic.”

To develop confidence around upselling, start by lowering the stakes. Suggest services that pair well together and require minimal financial or time investment from the client. For example, the LYCON Cosmetics team recommends adding an eyebrow or eyelash tint to an eyebrow wax. Both tints can be applied simultaneously, with no extra appointment time needed.

For salon management, it may be challenging to improve their team’s upselling success without adding pressure to their roles. To help strike the right balance, LYCON Cosmetics’ experts suggest:

• Introducing incentive schemes

• Supporting rebooking, rather than pushing upselling

• Using education to keep therapists updated and motivated

• Regularly checking in with therapists to listen to their feedback or concerns

• Providing support to therapists who are new to upselling or need extra help with it.

“UPSELLING WAXING SERVICES REQUIRES A HIGH LEVEL OF TACT AND CONSIDERATION.”

Above all, by placing a client’s needs at the centre of their salon experience, it will feel more natural and easier to recommend solutions for them.

“Building trust with your client and educating will come across as confident and not perceived as pushy,” they add. “Clients can see through therapists who are just pushing for sales. If you are educating them and truly passionate about the services or products you are selling, it will never feel like you are pushing a sale just to make a sale.” ■

Words: Amy

Hadley | Photography: Supplied

ARBRÉ: THEN & NOW

Arbré’s Luke Harris provides an update on one of the country’s heritage skincare and waxing manufacturers and suppliers.

Describe Arbré’s origins.

“Arbré was founded by Peter and Jan Harris, who were real pioneers in the Australian beauty industry. Their journey began with beauty colleges and salons in the iconic Dymocks Building in Sydney’s CBD and on Church Street in Parramatta, NSW.

From there, they launched their own skincare and waxing ranges with a clear mission: to provide beauty salons with the highest quality products and training. That legacy continues today, as we remain committed to being a brand salons can trust, relate to, and grow with.”

Run us through your career with Arbré. How would you say the company has evolved in this time?

“I have been working at Arbré since the early 1990s, mainly in production and research and development. Then I later moved into management roles where I was appointed General Manager around 2006, and I am now the Managing Director.

Has the focus of the business always remained on supplying the beauty industry?

“We’ve remained firmly focused on the professional beauty therapy industry because it’s where our expertise lies. Unlike many brands that branch out into retail or mass-market products, we’ve chosen not to venture into department stores or pharmacies.

Our commitment is to beauty professionals, providing high-quality cosmeceuticals that deliver real, visible results. By staying true to this specialised area, we’re able to maintain our high standards, continue innovating with purpose, and support salons with products tailored specifically for professional use.”

What guiding principles do you follow when formulating your products?

“We work in close collaboration with ingredient suppliers and cosmetic chemists to continually evolve our range and enhance existing formulations. These products are then trialled in our on-site training room, where we refine and adjust the formula until it meets our high standards and is ready for market release.”

Over this time there have been many exciting changes for the business. In 2000, we moved our manufacturing from Hornsby to a purpose-built manufacturing facility in Thornton, NSW. Our range has also evolved over this time, and we have been successful in growing our salon and export business since.

When you’re involved in the day-to-day operations of the business, it’s easy to overlook how much things evolve. Recently, one of our former sales representatives visited and was amazed at how much our range has expanded. At the heart of our growth is our incredible dedicated team, having the right people around you truly makes all the difference.”

Retaining a foot in the Australian professional landscape is no easy feat. What strategies have you implemented over the years to ensure Arbré remains in demand by salons and clients?

“At Arbré, we take pride in working closely with salons, listening to their needs, supporting their growth, and building strong, collaborative relationships. Many of our most popular products and treatments have started as suggestions from our salon partners. We carefully explore these ideas and, more often than not, they lead to exciting new developments.

We’re always researching innovative ingredients and staying at the forefront of skincare technology. Open communication and genuine partnerships with our customers are the core of everything we do.”

Are there any hero products or signature treatments that have become core to your professional following?

“We’re proud to offer a number of standout hero products within our range.

When it comes to skincare, our Tregur Liposomes are available in both professional treatments and retail home care, delivering targeted results through advanced liposomal technology. The Revitaliser, enriched with plant-based collagen, is another favourite, supporting skin firmness and elasticity across both salon treatments and take-home care. Our Super Hydrator is also a top performer, combining intensive skin hydrators with powerful peptides such as Matrixyl to deeply replenish and revitalise the skin.

In our waxing range, the Strawberry Hot Wax stands out as a true hero product, trusted by some of our most loyal customers for over 30 years. Its pliable, non-brittle formula allows for smooth, thin application and efficient removal, even of the finest hairs. Not only is it gentle on the skin, but it’s also incredibly economical, making it a favourite among beauty professionals.”

Are there any new ingredients, technologies, or formulations you’re currently exploring?

“We’re currently developing four new booster serums designed to be applied underneath your Arbré moisturiser for enhanced results. These serums feature cutting-edge technology and are formulated with premium ingredients such as plant collagen, liposomes, and advanced skin hydrators. We’re very excited to launch this innovative range, which will be available from September 2025.” ■

To find out whether Arbré is the right fit for your beauty or aesthetics business, call 02 4964 3999 or email office@arbre.com.au.

THE HOUSE OF WELLNESS

For Daniel and Natalie Tan, investing in longevity practices isn’t just a smart business move, it’s a lifestyle. Hannah Gay travelled to the pair’s one-of-a-kind dental practice in Launceston, Tasmania to witness the meeting of progressive holistic treatments under a single roof.

DR DANIEL Tan, BDS (Adel.) undertook study in dentistry in Australia, making the move from his Malaysian hometown to complete the fiveyear course. Today, he’s the face of his namesake clinic located on the rolling hills of Launceston. Natalie Tan, a former social worker and the wife of Daniel, serves as the business’ visionary. As Dan’s right hand, no business move is left uninspired by Nat, down to the finished product of months of building renovations. The ultimate power couple, the pair have built the business from scratch, all while raising two daughters.

The pair met in 2011 and went on to establish Dr Daniel Tan & Associates (DDTA) in 2016. Founding DDTA came about as a seamless extension of the pair’s own health-driven way of life. Facing a health scare some years prior, Nat had engaged in a low-tox lifestyle now embraced by the pair; one that “completely changed their lives”.

“The medical world is not a preventative world… we can support our own bodies, and that became an obsession,” Nat shared. “We've removed all toxins from the home. We don't have a microwave. We wake up in the morning and have pure electrolytes we fly in from the U.S., trace minerals in our water, hydrogen tablets, an infrared sauna at work, another infrared sauna at home, an ice bath that we would do every single morning…”, the list goes on.

Dan’s personal appeal and unique set of principles have remained a drawcard to DDTA for his adoring patients. “People wanted to follow what he was doing, learn from him. He was sharing podcasts and educating his patients.” A dental clinic first, now just one of many business offerings. “I can introduce things that I’m really passionate about and actually see how they translate,” he said. Following dentistry came the sauna, then the skin clinic.

It’s this multi-faceted approach to client care that singles DDTA out from local competition. And while similar wellness centres may be scaling in the major cities, Dan cites Tasmania’s appreciation for quality over quantity.

The Space

Visiting DDTA feels much like swinging by the in-laws’ place for a ‘cuppa. Its team of specialists appear more like extended family to their regulars, with Dan noting up to three generations are often patients of the clinic at any one time. Its spacious reception area has a cosy, home-like feel. The intentional omission of stark white walls in place of earthy tones and Photography: Supplied

warm lighting make for a welcoming haven - a reflection of the active, outdoorsy lifestyle of Launceston’s locals. Its ageing population takes great appreciation in bushwalking, fresh air, clean food and water.

The centre’s main building sits adjacent to a former 1940s army barracks. After long holding out hope, the team acquired the neighbouring building when the time was right to expand. That buildingwhich they’ve named Barnstead - now serves as DDTA’s skin clinic, dental lab, and space to house their newly acquired wellness devices. A team of three operate out of the skin clinic - a dermal therapist and two registered nurses.

More recently, the pair extended the main building, crafting a curved walkway fit for the pages of an architectural magazine. Additional rooms house DDTA’s team of six dentists, a clinical nutritionist, ayurvedic practitioner, and wellness coach.

The Services

Down to the tools and solutions used in-treatment, Dan’s approach to dentistry is entirely holistic. Fluoride is omitted, instead working with nano-hydroxyapatite (nHA), containing natural mineral that makes up the majority of tooth enamel and bone. No uncomfortable scraping of teeth is necessary. In its place is a powderwater solution dispersed by an Airflow device to provide a deeper clean to the gums and pockets. Because of this approach, Dan often receives referrals from other allied health practitioners for his use of non-harmful materials. “I’d deal with those patients very differently because they’re already in tune.”

A teeth clean and check with Dan can take little more than five minutes. But rather than send patients on their way, Dan utilises his expertise to address any other oral-related concerns held, referring onto other specialists who can assist with addressing the root cause. Despite onboarding a full house of specialists, Dan disagrees with trying to appease everyone in-house. “Because then the business model comes in… how much rent you can pay… what you can do. I don't want that. I just want to know of people doing what they're good at, and to be comfortable in the environment they're doing it.”

Approaching a skin concern is an involved process. Oftentimes, a client will be referred for gum testing, with results passed onto a functional nutritionist. Simultaneously, that client will be referred to DDTA’s skin experts for topical support. It’s an approach that seeks to provide the client with a well-rounded and thorough diagnosis. ➤

“WE WERE THE FIRST TO DO THIS,” DAN CONTINUED. [WE’D LIKE] TO MAKE THIS ACCESSIBLE… GIVING PEOPLE ACCESS TO PROPER HEALTH… SO IN FIVE YEARS PEOPLE IN TASSIE ARE GOING TO LOOK BACK AND THINK ‘WE SHOULD HAVE DONE THIS’.”

“Skin came about because I was doing a lot of Botulinum toxin for clenching,” Dan said. “I was offering it for pain relief, but eventually people would ask ‘what else can I get’?” He recognised that while a connection had developed between dentistry and the cosmetic world, there was no one on hand to fill the essential skin gap. And while cosmetic treatments are on offer at the business, the pair don’t consider themselves players in the cosmetic game. “[Our skin team] is very passionate about the work that they're doing and not overdoing or over-treating. We're not a heavy filler provider because our skin team prefers rejuvenation, which is great because that really fits with us,” Nat explained.

RATIONALE is Dan and Nat’s brand of choice for skin rejuvenation in-clinic, given they were using the brand themselves; “we truly believe in the product”, Nat said. The clinic also stocks ingestible brand, IMBIBE and utilises the OBSERV skin analysis system to round out its skin health offering. “We keep it simple, because otherwise, no one will use [the product]; no one will follow anything that’s too complicated,” Dan continued.

The Wellness World

Dan and Nat know how to walk-the-walk when it comes to wellness. “Anything you see in the practice, we will be using ourselves,” Dan admitted. And while terms like ‘wellness’ and ‘biohacking’ fuel public discourse, the pair haven’t been led by the trends, but have rather sat at the forefront of community acceptance and excitement. “People worship Dan,” Nat added, “so as soon as we bring in a wellness modality, everyone jumps on board. We’re very lucky.”

Compared to major cities like Sydney and Melbourne, the pair see that preaching wellness is easier with so much Launceston space and scenery to complement that lifestyle. As a result, their core client demographic is middle-aged and looking “to work on themselves”. DDTA intentionally omits marketing before-and-after images of their clients, believing in client comfort first and instead leaning on word-of-mouth to vouch for the clinic’s results. Dan insists on honesty and respect, choosing not to prey on his clients’ vulnerabilities in the face of ill-health. “For us, integrity is everything,” Dan said. “I don’t want to be everywhere, I just want to do my thing. I want to live my life knowing that I’ve gone through this journey; I’ve created something

and I’ve helped people. That’s all I want to do.” Dan often rejects the question of ‘what do you think I need?’, in favour of encouraging the client to lead with their concerns, before suggesting a treatment plan.

DDTA has placed major investment into biohacking-centric treatments, with the introduction of a hyperbaric chamber and TGA-approved full body red light bed to their clients. The latter - coming in at an eye-watering cost of $200,000 - is designed to assist clients with chronic pain, amongst other things. “It feels good to help people,” Dan shared. Investing in devices is simply a matter of “getting the right one”. Of less significance to Dan is the ROI a device offers, instead preferring to invest in what he’d want to use personally - a philosophy he connects to the entirety of the DDTA brand. “It’s past that point of business ventures. I want people to know that we have done something that everyone can benefit from.”

Client loyalty is solidified in their commitment to living a wellness-centric lifestyle, Dan argued, for a single, one-off treatment will never achieve the results a long-term habit can.

“When you get to the point of mastering meditation, sleep patterns, you have put in a lot of commitment to be able to get to that point.” Achieving optimal gut health, on the other hand, is considered a lifelong journey, as the body continually adapts to the introduction of new foods. “They always say a good business model is when you correctly deal with your existing patients, because they are the ones that will continue supporting you, where the new ones will come and go.” Once your lifestyle has changed, he continued, you become obsessed. Because of this mentality, nearly every one of their clients is considered a regular.

The Importance of Education

Despite the city’s appreciation for wellness-based pursuits, Nat sees that the public remain largely uneducated when it comes to the breadth of wellness offerings at clinics like DDTA. “You get your pockets of people who know exactly what you're doing, what you're offering, but we're educating people all the time.”

Dan added, “people are not understanding there's so much in-between [the current mentality around wellness] that we can do to maximise that.”

Dan used the ice bathing trend as an example, suggesting without the right education, people can in fact, overdo it. “My job is to make the connection and make them understand what's happening, because if everyone understands why something's happened, it becomes a lot easier to then manage. Without knowing ‘the why’, how do they take initiative [to fix it]? It's all about balance. I think it's great that we now have this information overload; everyone has something to think about, has something to say. Our job is to make sure that we keep everyone safe and give them the right information,” Dan says.

Next on the agenda for DDTA is simply: refinement - from hiring new staff, to crafting a more seamless cross-referrals process. “And also just getting the word out there,” Dan said. Nat added, “we just really want to educate people and to bring the experts in from overseas.” ■

RATIONALE visits DDTA

Where: Dr Daniel Tan & Associates, Launceston, Tasmania

What: Richard Parker - the man behind one of Australia’s most premium skincare brands, RATIONALE - joined VIP clients at Launceston’s DDTA for a night of bubbles, appetisers, and skin talk. The experience allowed guests the opportunity to ask their niggling skincare questions of the brand founder, and to learn more on Richard’s experience as a revered cosmetic chemist. He unpacked the ethos behind RATIONALE’s famous Essential Six Collections, and detailed the brand’s intentional partnership with dental and wellness clinic, DDTA.

endota’s performance+ skincare launch

Where: Hyde Hacienda, Sydney

What: Capitalising on Sydney’s famous harbour view, the team behind endota hosted beauty media and influencers for a sun-lit morning of rejuvenating wellness experiences.

In attendance was endota Founder & CEO, Melanie Gleeson, who worked alongside a team of expert endota therapists to deliver mini facials, skin analysis, shoulder massages, and an essential oil bar experience to guests.

The event served to celebrate the official launch of the brand’s new performance+ line, consisting of six active serums and an overnight glow treatment.

A D IN D EX

Medispa Solutions hosts MedTech Symposium 2025

Where: Ovolo, Woolloomooloo, Sydney

What: Skin therapists, dermal clinicians, cosmetic doctors and other medical professionals gathered at Ovolo’s event space for a jam-packed day of educational talks and inspiring product insights in partnership with Biotec Italia. Cohosted by Doctor Gregoris Stavrou, guests enjoyed live demonstrations of the distributor’s groundbreaking devices, including microwave body contouring technology, LysiWave, CFU (HIFU), laser technologies, and the various uses for the LEDelux.

Photography: iStock/efetova