SpaClinic Volume 103

FROM ONE CLINIC TO THREE

How Venus Supported Art of Aesthetics’ Growth

MIND OVER MATTER

Redefining Recovery at Combined Clinics

The New Multi-Wavelength Powerhouse for Every Phototype

Meet TORO: Deka’s next-generation laser system that includes both nanosecond and picosecond pulses and 3 wavelengths to deliver advanced solutions for a broad range of indications.

From deep and superficial pigmented lesions, melasma, tattoo removal to acne and post-acne scarring, skin rejuvenation and brightening, and Deka Peel for pore and texture refinement, TORO offers unrivalled versatility and flexibility.

With a wide range of handpieces and spot sizes, each with its own focal lens, TORO ensures optimised energy delivery for precise, reliable, and highly effective treatments.

iccolo M.D -

Courtesy of Prof. Domenico Piccolo M.D -

Courtesy

Prof. Domenico Piccolo M.D - Italy

Massimo Vitale, M.D -

Massimo Vitale, M.D.,

Domenico Piccolo M.D - Italy

Massimo Vitale, M.D - Italy

Massimo Vitale, M.D -

Courtesy of Prof. Domenico Piccolo M.D - Italy

Courtesy

Massimo Vitale, M.D -

Courtesy

Massimo Vitale, M.D - Italy

Domenico Piccolo M.D.,

• Tri-Wavelength Emission:

• High ROI with no consumables

MICHAEL RAGHIB

Equipment Specialist NSW | ACT

mr@hightechmedical.com.au

0400 701 760

– 785nm Picosecond: epidermal and dermal lesions, with reduced risk of PIH, and effective for treating phototypes III-V including Asian skin

– 532nm & 1064nm Nanosecond: tattoo removal of all colours and pigmented lesions

– 532nm & 1064nm Nanosecond: tattoo removal of all

• Pre-set clinical database and smart interface for step-bystep treatment guidance and customisable protocols

• Advanced RLA Technology – Homogeneous Beam Profile for better tissue interaction, minimal PIH risk and predictable results

• Multiple Handpiece Options (Zoom, Square, Fractional, Deka Peel, 785nm Pico Pulse)

• Counterbalanced Arm – supports the handpiece, reducing operator fatigue for effortless treatments

• Seamless transition One Click wavelength change

• Magnetic Handpieces & Connectors for quick and secure handpiece changes

CHEEP Equipment Specialist VIC | SA jc@hightechmedical.com.au 0473 848 628

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GlySal™ Peels refine texture, clear congestion and restore glow, stimulating collagen production and reducing sebum, black heads and impurities.

Flexible Finance Options

First Repayment January 2026 Own from just $325 p/w* Offer limited to first 25 Syndeo® Systems T&C’s

2026 EVENTS CALENDAR

Where education, inspiration, and innovation meet — month by month.

Dates are subject to change.

The Australasian Society of Cosmetic and Procedural Dermatologists Symposium (ASCPD)

20–22 Mar 2026

Melbourne

Regional Long Lunch 29th March, 2026

NSW

MARCH

COSMEDICON:

5–7 Mar 2026

Sydney

MAY

Aesthetic Business Masters (ABM) 4th May, 2026

Sydney

CUCF (Cutera University Clinical Forum)

8–10 May 2026

QLD

Australian Aesthetics Symposium (NSS) 15–16 May 2026

Perth

Aesthetic Business Masters (ABM) + ABM Awards

17th & 18th May, 2026

Melbourne

Clinical Aesthetics Symposium 9th June, 2026

New Zealand

JUNE

Non-Surgical Symposium (NSS)

5–7 Jun 2026

ICC Sydney

Anatomy for Injectors (ASAPS)

Dates & Location to be announced

Cosmetic Collective (Juv’ae)

21–24 June 2026

Langham Gold Coast

JULY

L’Oréal Clinic Connect

Dates and location to be confirmed

Aesthetics AU 23-26, July 2026

Location coming soon

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

Fresh Clinics Conference

Dates and location to be confirmed

SkinCon (ASDC)

Dates to be confirmed

Melbourne

Beauty Expo Australia 15–16 Aug 2026

ICC Sydney

Derma Aesthetics Conference (Dermaviduals) 17 Aug 2026

W Sydney

Cosmetex (ACCSM)

Dates & Location to be announced

Aesthetic Business Masters (ABM)

Dates to be confirmed

Brisbane

Aesthetic Business Masters (ABM) 21st, Sept 2026

Perth

OCTOBER

The Wellness Summit

Dates to be confirmed

Margaret River, Western Australia

COVER STORIES

46: From One Clinic to Three How Venus Supported Art of Aesthetics’ Growth

76: Why Hustle Isn’t the Answer The Sustainable Success Formula

82: Mind Over Matter Redefining Recovery at Combined Clinics

ON OUR SHELF

14: The Products We Keep Reaching For THE TREATMENT ROOM

20: Putting the Latest Spa and Aesthetics to the Test

EVENTS

22: Lush Skin + Laser Celebrate 5 Years of iS Clinical Honouring Partnership, Transformation, and Community

24: The Conversations That Defined Fresh Life 2025 Tips You Can Implement for 2026

26: Industry Insider & Industry News Events to Know About

EDUCATION

30: The Face Up Method Face Sculpting Meets Somatic Wellness

31: From Nursing to Aesthetics A Clear Pathway Into Cosmetic Practice

BUSINESS

32: Business Spaces The New and the Upgraded

40: Leveraging Your Partners for Events Launch Success Through Collaboration

41: Hashtags Are Dead What to Focus on in Social Media

On the cover

AESTHETICS

51: LuxeGlo Where Medical Precision Meets Luxury Wellness

52: Targeting the Six Signs of Ageing Meet SkinCeuticals’ Advanced RGN-6

62: The Doctor’s Difference Inside SkinCareDoctor’s Rise

MEDI

66: The New Reality Opportunities and Hurdles for Nurse-Led Clinics in QLD

67: Honest Surgery The Rise of Cosmetic Confidence

SPA HOTSPOT

70: Bamford Spa Melbourne

WELLNESS & CULTURE

77: Growth at All Costs The Risks and Realities of Expanding Too Fast TECHNOLOGY

84: Face by Alex Pike Opens in Toorak Levelling Up with the Neo Elite

86: Microdosing Exosomes Boosting Renewal with EXO+ Priming

COSMETICS

96: Christmas Packs & Summer Skin Festive Gifts and Summer Essentials

Venus. Aesthetic Intelligence™: Venus is a global leader in medical aesthetics, trusted by clinics and practitioners who value technology that delivers exceptional results and real business growth. Our range of energy-based devices, including Venus Versa PRO™, Venus Viva™ MD, Venus Legacy™, Venus Bliss MAX™ and Venus Velocity™, are designed to provide safe, effective, and versatile treatments that meet today’s most in-demand aesthetic needs. With local ANZ support, clinical training, and service teams, Venus partners with clinics to ensure every device achieves its full potential, delivering stronger clinical outcomes for patients, higher satisfaction for practitioners, and measurable financial benefit for the business. This is the power of Aesthetic Intelligence™, where science, results, and partnership come together to redefine what’s possible in modern aesthetics. Are you a physician? Find out more: VENUS.AI/EN-AU

aesthetics • medi • wellness

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Wow, our final issue for 2025 is here, and what a year it has been. Looking back, the one word that comes to mind is speed. This year has absolutely flown. It also marks 12 months since I stepped into Nadine’s role while she’s been on maternity leave, and what a fun and rewarding year it has been. Thank you to all our brand partners and contributors for the warm welcome.

Reflecting on 2025, a few key trends truly defined the year, none more so than exosomes. These powerful cell-to-cell communicators have been everywhere, with new protocols and products reshaping how we approach skin health. In this issue, Dr Elina Theodorakopoulou shares her microdosing protocol on page 86, while Gro Clinics shares its hair restoration protocol with Exomide on page 38. Moving into 2026, it will be exciting to watch this technology expand beyond skin and hair into broader areas of medicine and wellness.

Menopause has also remained front and centre, an essential conversation in our predominantly female-led industry. The changes we’ve seen have reshaped consultations, with more clinics introducing menopause-focused treatments and skincare. As a result, the industry is supporting women more holistically than ever. In many ways, the word “aesthetics” no longer captures the full breadth of what we deliver. We’re not only enhancing skin health but helping women navigate a life stage that

influences every part of their wellbeing. It will be fascinating to see how this evolves in 2026 and whether new language may better reflect our expanding scope.

We’ve also seen a significant rise in wellness. With new wellness spaces opening nationwide, the predictions have proven true. Bathhouses, recovery studios, and integrative hubs have shifted from an occasional indulgence to a daily essential. Woven into the way we live, work, and recharge. I’ve even caught myself considering converting a room in my house into a Zen studio. That’s how deeply this movement has shaped our routines.

On the cover, we celebrate Registered Nurse and trainer Jaclyn Isaacs, marking her growth since her last feature in 2021. Now with three clinics and the new Venus Versa Pro, Jackie has reached remarkable business milestones. Read her story on page 46.

As we wrap 2025, I’m delighted to share that I’ll be staying on as Editor, while Nadine returns as Digital Editor. Together, we’ll bring you more of what you love with a few fresh features already appearing.

Here’s to closing one chapter and opening another. I can’t wait to kick off 2026 with our first-ever European edition in February.

Stephanie McLean Managing Editor SMCLEAN@INTERMEDIA.COM.AU

www.facebook.com/spaclinicmagazine www.instagram.com/spaandclinic www.linkedin.com/company/spaclinic

Rejuran, Turnover Ampoule RRP $120.00 rejurancosmetics.com.au

Fresh Finds

aspectskincare.com.au

Medik8, Advanced Pro-Collagen+ Peptide Cream, RRP $160.00 medik8.com.au

advancedskin.com.au

Saint Louve, Daily Antioxidant Cream RRP $169.95 SAINTLOUVE.COM.AU

Ultraceuticals, ULTRA C + Rejuvenating Chebula Serum RRP $139.00 ULTRACEUTICALS.COM.AU

SkinCeuticals, Advanced RGN-6 Skin Repair Cream, RRP $299.00 SKINCEUTICALS.COM.AU

Dermapen, Dermapen HOME RRP $780.00 INSKINCOSMEDICS.COM.AU

CeraVe, Balancing Air Foam Cleaner RRP $22.99 CERAVE.COM.AU

Simka, Day Cream SPF 15 RRP $75.00 SIMKA.COM

IsClinical, Daily Dynamic Hydrator RRP $242.00 ISCLINICAL.COM.AU

Murad, Retinal ReSculpt Overnight Cream RRP $170.00 MURAD.COM.AU

On Our Shelf

The Products We Keep Reaching For

Dermalogica PreCleanse Oil

Finding a gentle eye makeup remover after LASIK has been such a challenge. Micellar waters sting, and natural options like Bee Body Butter just didn’t cut it when it came to breaking down makeup. At The Fresh Life, Dermalogica hosted a networking event and kindly handed out samples, and honestly, I lived off them until my full-size finally arrived. Applied to dry skin, this cleanser melts away makeup, is gentle enough for my eyes, and doesn’t sting at all. Instead, my skin feels hydrated and fresh after every use. I emulsify with water and sweep it away with cotton rounds to lift makeup, SPF, and daily debris. It’s now a non-negotiable staple in my skincare routine.

ZO Skin Health Exfoliating Polish

SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defense Sunscreen SPF50

SPF has always been my number one non-negotiable, but finding one that actually works for my skin hasn’t been easy. After years of battling perioral dermatitis, I stuck with mineral SPF for the coverage, but it never fully kept those subtle signs of sun damage at bay. Once my skin finally settled, I knew it was time to step things up.

When SkinCeuticals sent me a care package, I decided to give their SPF a go and honestly, I haven’t looked back. It’s lightweight yet hydrating, sits beautifully under makeup, and most importantly, protects my skin without any irritation.

Yes, it’s a little pricier than some other SPFs, but it lasts forever, travels easily, and doesn’t cause breakouts or flare-ups for my sensitive skin. It’s safe to say it’s earned its spot as my everyday go-to.

Growing up in the Apricot Scrub era, I was firmly anti-scrub by the time I finished my dermal degree and started working with Rationale Skincare. I’ve always been loyal to chemical exfoliants (and still use them a few times a week), but I can’t deny how good that polished, just-scrubbed feeling is, especially during an at-home treatment. What’s funny is I rarely ever get sent scrubs, if at all. So, when I was at the ZO Skin Health Breakfast earlier this year and someone asked if their scrub could be used on rosacea, my ears instantly pricked up. Vivian, the brilliant ZO trainer, said yes. Explaining it’s gentle enough to use on even the most sensitive of skin concerns.

I tried it soon after, and honestly, it’s one of the very best I’ve ever used. With ultra-fine magnesium oxide crystals that gently slough away dead skin cells, it leaves my skin feeling fresh without irritation. I can’t believe it’s flown under the radar for so long!

Partnerships Director

Dermaviduals EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate)

Gotta say, a true standout came after an invitation to visit the Dermaviduals office to experience their new Spring Facial, part of their beautiful seasonal treatment collection aligning skin health with the changing seasons. The facial left my skin instantly revived, fresh, hydrated, and glowing.

Post-facial, I took home a care pack featuring EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), the well-known antioxidant derived from green tea that helps protect skin cells from oxidative stress and supports barrier repair. I’ve definitely noticed an increase in hydration and overall softness since introducing it into my routine, and it’s now a firm fixture in my skincare lineup.

Dermaviduals Liposomes Intense Renewal Serum

My new favourite, now firmly on my shelf, is the Liposomes Intense Renewal Serum — and I’ll admit, I love anything German when it comes to skincare. This luxurious formulation deeply nourishes while delivering lasting hydration and visible smoothness. It leaves my skin feeling plump and refreshed, and I’m absolutely loving the results. I can’t wait to see what Dermaviduals brings with their next seasonal treatment.

Alastin Skin Nectar

This month, I’ve been reaching for Alastin’s Skin Nectar, and it has truly been a post-laser saviour. After experiencing Device Consulting’s Ultra Clear Cool Laser on my neck and décolletage, this formula was exactly what my skin needed to heal, soothe, and calm that inevitable post-treatment itch, huge thanks to Paros from Galderma, who ran out to his car to grab one for me (a total lifesaver!).

Formulated with TriHex Technology®, Skin

Nectar works to clear damaged collagen and elastin while stimulating the growth of new, healthy fibres, helping to speed up recovery and strengthen the skin. The addition of powerful antioxidants Phytoene and Phytofluene helps shield against environmental stressors and enhances overall radiance.

The texture deserves a special mention too. Lightweight, silky, and fast-absorbing, it leaves my skin feeling calm, hydrated, and noticeably more resilient with every use. It’s safe to say Skin Nectar has quickly become my must-have for post-procedure recovery and long-term skin health.

Inside the interiors of Sculpture by Westland

When you step inside Sculpture by Westland, you immediately sense that this is not just another aesthetic clinic. It is a space where time, texture, and intention converge. A carefully composed environment that honours the past while embracing the present. For founder Jack Westland, the interiors are more than walls and finishes; they are an extension of his philosophy that beauty, whether in design or skin, comes from harmony, balance, and care.

“I was raised in what felt like a living museum, surrounded by history, texture, and timeless design,” Jack reflects. “For Sculpture by Westland, my vision was to create a transitional space that seamlessly blends heritage charm with contemporary sophistication. The soul of heritage brings depth and originality, while modern elements offer a sense of clarity and freshness. I’ve always been inspired by the contrast, merging the past with the present to craft spaces that feel rich with history yet unmistakably modern.”

That vision is realised in an environment that instantly feels like a sanctuary. Unlike many clinical settings, Sculpture by Westland is warm, familiar, and inviting. “I wanted it to evoke the feeling of stepping into a dear friend’s home: comforting, beautiful, and intimate,” Jack explains. Every corner has been considered, from curated interiors to the lush private courtyard that acts as a secret garden in the heart of Paddington. “The leafy courtyard brings a tranquillity to the experience that feels almost hidden away, like an oasis within the city.”

Jack’s background in interior design shines through in every detail. Beginning with a monochromatic foundation of black and white, he layered in rich textures and tactile finishes to create depth and personality. “Antique marble with dramatic veining, natural timber, antique brass, velvet, and tactile linens all play a role,” he says. “Creams and earthy tones balance the monochrome, while greenery and fresh flowers bring life and softness. The oversized white linen curtains add movement and a sense of luxury. Each element reflects the Sculpture by Westland brand, refined, but approachable.”

This balance of sophistication and accessibility is central to the clinic’s identity. It reflects not only an aesthetic decision but also the brand ethos: to deliver results without losing the warmth and humanity that make clients feel truly cared for. “The interiors are sophisticated without being sterile,” Jack says. “That was very important to me. To create a space where clients feel calm, seen, and at ease.”

While beauty was at the forefront, functionality was never compromised. As a clinic, the space needed to support both practitioners and clients with ease. “Form and function were given equal weight in every decision,” he explains. “The space had to be highly practical, but I was determined that functionality wouldn’t compromise the aesthetic.”

Drawing on his experience in residential design, Jack approached the clinic much like he would a home. “I was used to designing for real lives. Busy families, children, the rhythm of daily life. Bringing that same level of consideration into a clinical environment was a natural evolution.”

That thoughtful approach extends to sustainability. ‘I’ve always loved antiques, not just for their beauty, but for their sustainable nature, and they feature heavily throughout the space,’ Jack says. Repurposed heritage pieces sit alongside a paperless, low-waste model, with recyclable products used wherever possible. Every design decision was made with longevity in mind, ensuring the clinic feels timeless while treading lightly on the environment. This same ethos of care extends beyond materials into wellness itself. ‘Wellness, both physical and emotional, was central to the design ethos. I wanted to create a space that supports a holistic sense of wellbeing, where clients not only see results but feel genuinely cared for in every sense.’”

Facts & Figures

Name: SCULPTURE BY WESTLAND

Owner: JACK WESTLAND

Location: PADDINGTON, NSW

Size: 140sqm

Number of rooms: 3

Number of staff: 3

Interior Inspiration: HERITAGE MEETS MODERN SANCTUARY

The outcome is a space that feels deeply personal, where every detail from the textures underfoot to the atmosphere in the rooms has been guided as much by instinct and emotion as by design training. “My heart is in every selection, every texture, every layout decision,” Jack reflects. “If I had to describe it, I’d say it’s the feeling the space evokes a subtle alchemy of elegance, calm, and intentional beauty. It’s that emotional resonance the way clients feel when they step inside that feels the most uniquely me.”

In a competitive landscape where many clinics prioritise minimalism and futuristic aesthetics, Sculpture by Westland offers something different. A reminder that heritage and modernity can co-exist, that luxury can also feel warm, and that design can be as restorative as the treatments themselves. By blending the richness of the past with the clarity of the present, Sculpture by Westland stands as a modern sanctuary with soul. A space that doesn’t just serve clients but embraces them, reminding us that true beauty is always multi-layered.

Aussie Practitioners Gather In Korea For PharmaResearch Global Symposium (PGS) 2025

3 days of learning about Rejuran

Last month, 15 select Australian practitioners spent a few days in Korea, the home of Rejuran, to learn more about the popular PDRN product and – most of all – see where it comes from and how it’s made (spoiler alert, there is some salmon catching involved!).

The three-day program included a pre-symposium DOT™ Tour for master trainers and invited faculty, during which the group travelled to Yangyang to visit the natural salmon habitat of Rejuran.

Rejuran is made from polynucleotides (PN), a type of DNA fragment, extracted from the sperm of wild salmon using a proprietary process called DNA Optimising Technology (DOT™). The process involves purifying the DNA, fragmenting it into specific sizes, and formulating it into a highly biocompatible substance. The production of Rejuran is a complex, multi-step process that does not involve killing the salmon for their sperm; rather, the sperm is a byproduct of the salmon fishing industry.

The PGS Scientific Symposium featuring structured sessions and case discussions offered guests a chance to have evidence-based discussion and share insights. The symposium demonstrated how clinician-led education supports best-practice standards in the responsible, professional use of medical devices.

A Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony honouring contributions to education and research completed the Symposium, and of course there was some time dedicated to exploring Gangneung and learning more about Korea’s culture.

Among the 15 Australian practitioners was Prof Greg Goodman, who says the tour of the salmon facility was a highlight of the trip for him, but he also gained some new insight from the Symposium sessions.

“A few things really stood out for me, [including] the 15 million syringes administered with no vascular occlusions, which is incredibly reassuring for practitioners” – Dr Naomi McCullum

“The scar treatments probably interested me the most, but the idea of injecting Rejuran before laser procedures on the same day resonated. Combining agents in the same syringe particularly off face was interesting,” he explains. He describes Rejuran as a “wake up call to the skin’s natural healing and improvement”.

Dr Naomi McCullum also took part in the trip and enjoyed various key learnings at the Symposium.

“We had Korean, Japanese, and Malaysian Key Opinion Leaders sharing their latest Rejuran techniques, and the insights were fascinating. A few things really stood out for me: the 15 million syringes administered with no vascular occlusions, which is incredibly reassuring for practitioners; the growing popularity of Rejuran Scar for applications beyond scars; the increasing trend of combining Rejuran with devices; and its expanding use for pigmentation and redness. I also found the new case studies, such as Rejuran for lips, particularly interesting.”

PGS 2025 reaffirmed the importance of structured, peer-level education and scientific exchange in aesthetic medicine.

The salmon facility in Yangyang

The Treatment Room

Where the latest treatments and technologies in spa and aesthetics are put to the test.

Face Up Method

Put to the test by Stephanie McLean, Editor

There are treatments, and then there are TREATMENTS. The Face Up Method belongs in the latter category. A deeply restorative facial massage designed to rejuvenate not only the skin, but also the emotional and energetic body. Drawing on techniques from around the world, founder Olga has created an experience that both uplifts and grounds.

Before beginning the treatment, Olga shares her philosophy. Grounded in somatic principles and years of experience, her approach recognises that our faces both express and hold on to everything we go through. She even raises the intriguing idea that injectable treatments may reduce blood flow. Her reasoning is thought-provoking: when muscles are frozen, others compensate, and because contraction naturally pushes blood through tissue, reduced movement may contribute to stagnation. It begs the question, how much hidden tension are we really holding?

Her treatment focuses on the décolleté, shoulders, neck, face, and scalp. It feels like a hybrid of remedial massage and physiotherapy, yet somehow remains one of the most relaxing and releasing treatments I’ve ever had. Starting at the chest and moving upward, Olga systematically clears and eases tension. For me, the sorest areas were around my neck, behind the ears, my TMJ, and forehead, which made some sense after a recent injectable top-up.

The neck receives special attention, with stretches and deep massage to release the muscles connecting the TMJ to the back of the skull. Olga also incorporates buccal massage, working not just outward toward the ears but also in reverse, under both the top and bottom lip. Some areas melted with ease, while others revealed just how much strain I had been storing. The unexpected bonus? My jawline looked more defined, likely from releasing tight muscles under the chin.

Post-treatment, I floated out of the room feeling completely reset. It’s the most relaxed I’ve felt in months. If you’re holding tension, experiencing burnout, or simply craving a reset, this is a treatment worth seeking out. And for practitioners, Olga teaches her method both nationally and internationally, making it as valuable to learn as it is to experience.

Spicule Treatment

Put to the test by Stephanie McLean, Editor

This treatment had been on my radar for months, but I hadn’t yet explored the science behind it, let alone experienced it firsthand. So when the opportunity arose to trial the Dr Esthé Peel & Glow at The Beauty Emporium in Mount Eliza, I didn’t hesitate.

My therapist, Brooke, guided me through the 40-minute treatment, which began with a gentle cleanse before introducing the spicules, the hero of the treatment, followed by a soothing mask and massage.

Brooke warned me that the application would feel “prickly,” and she was right. At first, the peel felt cool and gritty, but as she massaged it in, the sensation intensified, like tiny cactus needles or fine sandpaper sweeping across my skin. While it was a little uncomfortable, it was also deeply satisfying, knowing that 5 million microscopic spicules were working beneath the surface to stimulate renewal.

She explained there are two protocols available. 1 million or 5 million spicules, depending on the intensity you’re seeking. Treatments can also be tailored further, focusing on clarity or brightening. I chose the Brightening & Pigmentation Control option, designed to even tone and revive dullness.

Curious, I asked more about what was happening at a cellular level. Brooke explained that the spicules are hydrolysed freshwater micro-sponge spicules, rich in proteins, minerals, and bioavailable silica. Sustainably sourced and purified, these microscopic, needle-like structures penetrate the stratum corneum to activate the skin’s renewal process, stimulate cellular turnover, and help deliver active ingredients where they’re needed most. The results? Smoother texture, refined pores, and a brighter, more resilient complexion.

Immediately after, my skin was slightly pink and still felt prickly when touched, though silky smooth. Brooke assured me this would fade within 48 hours. By day three, the sensation had disappeared, leaving my skin luminous, even, and noticeably smoother.

UltraClear Cool Peel

Put to the test by Kym Cowper, Integrated Partnerships Director

Two weeks ago, I visited the beautiful Dr Miriam at her Bondi clinic to address pigmentation and skin quality on my neck and décolletage, two areas that are, as we all can relate prime targets for sun damage and often forgotten in our daily skincare routines. I’ll admit, I was guilty of stopping my sunscreen at my jawline in my younger years, and now my neck tells a sad story.

After a thorough consultation, Dr Miriam agreed the UltraClear Cool Peel would be an ideal treatment to target uneven tone, sun damage, and textural changes all with minimal downtime. Numbing cream was applied beforehand, and while some sections felt a little spicy, the treatment was very tolerable. Thanks to Mel, the lovely Practice Manager, a little arm tapping, encouragement, and a touch of gas, the time flew by.

Immediately post-treatment, my neck was bright red and hot, saved by my take home kit, handheld fan and cold packs, but the heat subsided within a few hours.

• Day 1: Red, tight, and warm.

• Day 2–3: Crusty, itchy, and in healing mode. I used Tissue Repair and Alastin’s Skin Nectar, which calmed, soothed, and hydrated beautifully.

• Days 4–7: Noticeable improvement in texture and pigment starting to lift.

• Day 15: The results are phenomenal — significantly less pigment, finer lines, and tighter skin across my neck and décolletage.

I’m booked for my follow-up with Dr Miriam soon and already thrilled with how refreshed and rejuvenated my skin looks. The UltraClear Cool Peel has truly helped restore confidence in an area I’ve long neglected and reminded me that skincare shouldn’t stop at the chin!

The Ultimate Lymphatic Body Treatment

Put to the test by Kym Cowper, Integrated Partnerships Director Nothing compares to this. Think buccal massage for your body but better.

Mala’s signature full-body ritual combines wooden rollers, gua sha, and gentle suction cups that mimic the benefits of cupping without the telltale red marks. Every movement feels intentional: lifting, sculpting, draining while easing you into a deep, meditative relaxation.

It’s a truly sensorial experience that goes beyond massage; it’s body re-education. The flow, rhythm, and precision of Mala’s technique awaken your lymphatic system, enhance circulation, and leave you feeling both lighter and lengthened. And just when you think it couldn’t get any better, it finishes with LED therapy for the body, the ultimate glow-up moment. Honestly, I can’t compare this to anything else on the market. It’s the definition of next level!

Lush Skin + Laser Celebrate 5 Years of iS Clinical

Honouring Partnership, Transformation, and Community

In August, the SPA+CLINIC team travelled to regional Victoria to celebrate a milestone with one of the region’s most acclaimed clinics, Lush Skin + Laser, founded by Cat Armstrong. The clinic marked the occasion with a special evening in partnership with iS Clinical, proudly distributed by High Tech Medical.

Far more than a standard clinic event, the night blended education, entertainment, and heartfelt storytelling. It became a true celebration of shared values, results, transformation, and the lives that have been changed through world-class skincare.

From Client to Advocate

For Cat Armstrong, the evening was about more than innovation, it was about people. Among the stories shared was that of Shannon, who first came to the clinic at a turning point in her life due to struggling with severe acne.

Cat reflects on one consultation that has stayed with her, recalling her patient Shannon’s words, “I reached a point where I didn’t want to wake up and look in the mirror feeling like this anymore.” Moved by her honesty, Cat gifted Shannon a customised routine of Pro-Heal

Serum, Hydra-Cool Serum, and SPF. Within just 30 days, Shannon’s skin began to transform, marking the start of her journey back to confidence.

For Cat, stories like Shannon’s embody the mission of Lush Skin + Laser Clinic, to deliver advanced treatments and evidence-based skincare that restore confidence and empower people to feel their best.

Stories of Transformation

Throughout the evening, more inspiring journeys reinforced the impact of iS Clinical:

• Laura’s Melasma & Pigment: After three months on a tailored plan, Laura’s before-andafter photos revealed a dramatic reduction in pigmentation with skincare alone.

• Justine’s Rosacea: Using Cleansing Complex alongside supportive treatments like Laser Genesis, Justine experienced calmer, clearer skin and renewed comfort.

Reinforcing the iS Clinical philosophy, Cat reminded guests that skincare doesn’t need to be complicated, often recommending simple routines of just three to four steps.

The Lockdown Launch

Lush was the first to introduce iS Clinical to Shepparton, bringing the globally renowned brand to the regional community during one of the most challenging times. Launched in Australia amid Covid, Lush embraced digital connection from the outset, hand-delivering 40 exclusive iS Clinical goodie bags to VIP patients before hosting virtual events and Zoom education sessions.

Reflecting on that launch, Cat recalled: “It was so lovely, after dropping off all these products, to jump on Zoom and see 40 excited patients ready to learn about this new product we were launching.”

A Night to Remember

In true Lush style, the evening struck the perfect balance between education and energy, with a spirited “Dancing Queen” competition that saw two winners share $1,500 in prizes.

To add to the excitement, guests received exclusive gift bags filled with cult favourites and the newly launched Extra Strength Peel, alongside multiple prize giveaways.

More Than Skincare

The Lush Skin + Laser Clinic x iS Clinical evening was about more than products and treatments; it was about community, resilience, and transformation. As guests departed with gift bags in hand, two dance champions crowned, and countless conversations sparked, the event captured what makes iS Clinical so trusted: science, simplicity, and results that change lives.

The Conversations That Defined The Fresh Life 2025

From business metrics to menopause, here’s what The Fresh Life taught us about the future of aesthetics

The Fresh Life 2025 once again confirmed its place as one of the most anticipated events on the aesthetics calendar.

Returning to its roots at Brisbane’s Howard Smith Wharves, the site of the very first Fresh conference, the three-day gathering (2–4 September) delivered a rich blend of business strategy, clinical and practical education, and proactive health insights. A program that left attendees not only inspired, but also challenged and equipped to take meaningful action back in their clinics.

Here are the five conversations that resonated most and why they matter for every practitioner.

1. Business metrics matter more than ever

As Megan Reid from Fresh Clinics highlighted, many nurses are taught

how to keep patients alive and well, but not how to run a business. That gap has real-world consequences. Without a clear plan, KPIs, and systems for rebooking, even the busiest businesses can struggle with growth and sustainability.

Her advice? Set patients up with 12-month treatment plans, track quarterly outcomes, and measure what matters. Simple changes, like monitoring why patients don’t rebook or extending clinic hours in peak “golden quarters”, can dramatically shift the bottom line. As Megan put it, understanding opportunity costs and metrics isn’t just business housekeeping; it’s the backbone of long-term success.

[Tip: Even small shifts, like tracking rebooking patterns or mapping out a 12-month patient plan, can make growth feel less accidental and more intentional.]

2. The “picky patient” is here to stay

On the Be Fearless, Be Unapologetic, Be You panel, Elly Seymour observed that patients are becoming increasingly selective, seeking “quality over quantity” when it comes to treatments. They’re open to trying new modalities, but only when they feel those options are credible, safe, and delivered authentically.

Agnes Dube highlighted the growing presence of male patients in clinic spaces, with many embracing treatments during new life chapters, and noted the encouraging trend of couples increasingly booking in together. It’s a shift that reflects how aesthetics is moving beyond the traditional female patient base and into new demographics.

For practitioners, it signals a more discerning market where patients are arriving better informed, more selective, and with higher expectations.

[Tip: Lean into authenticity and precision. Patients who feel genuinely understood are far more likely to stay loyal.]

3. Weight management can’t be left out of the conversation

Perhaps the most powerful moment of The Fresh Life Conference came from Dr Georgia Rigas, who challenged the industry with a simple but confronting question: “If patients trust nurses more than doctors, why aren’t we helping them?”

Her session reframed obesity not just as a medical issue, but as a driver of cancer, fertility struggles, diabetes, and systemic inflammation. She pointed out that proactive weight management can improve skin outcomes, reduce inflammation, and significantly enhance quality of life.

For aesthetics clinics, the opportunity is to move beyond surfacelevel care and embrace weight management as part of holistic patient wellbeing. As Dr Rigas stressed, the time to start is now, before complications set in.

[Tip: Don’t wait for patients to bring it up. Opening the door to weight and wellness conversations can be transformative.]

4. Technology sells when practitioners believe in it Innovation remained front and centre, with Molly Brown of Hugel presenting the clinical outcomes achieved with the Byryzn Opuluxe V before demonstrating its use in combination with microneedling. As more nurses diversify into skin, treatments such as exosomes, microneedling, and RF microneedling are emerging as popular entry points for those expanding their service offering.

Róisín McGee and Rogen Eulatic brought a strong business lens to the conversation, sharing tried-and-tested strategies for introducing devices into clinic life. Their advice focused on building both practitioner confidence and patient interest from running model calls and showcasing authentic before-and-after content to offering complimentary “tester” areas as a way to spark engagement.

Róisín’s most memorable insight? “If you’re excited by the treatment, it sells itself.” Enthusiasm, not a sales pitch, is what draws patients in.

[Tip: Share your excitement. When patients see your genuine belief in a device, they’re far more likely to invest.]

5. Frontline women’s health

Aesthetics is the perfect place to support women’s health, according to Dr Isabella Sillar and RN Lisa Price, who have been working closely through Fresh’s new Fresh Health platform. They positioned clinics as natural triage points for conversations around Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and weight management, conditions that often go hand in hand.

Lisa emphasised the importance of starting these conversations in the consultation, opening up dialogue around symptoms that profoundly affect quality of life, from sleep disruption and exhaustion to mood shifts and persistent ruminating thoughts. She cautioned against a rigid approach to perimenopause, urging practitioners to look at nuanced markers such as FSH levels in women under 45.

When it comes to treatment, Dr Isabella explained, options range from systemic approaches to transdermal applications or intravaginal therapies, which can also help prevent prolapse and UTIs.

Together, they reframed women’s health as a vital area of opportunity for aesthetics, one where clinics can expand their scope, support patients holistically, and weave menopause and weight management seamlessly into everyday care.

[Tip: Use consultations as a gateway. Opening conversations about hormones, menopause, and weight management can position your clinic as a trusted triage point and give patients the support they often struggle to find elsewhere.]

Bonus: Content is care

Tealle Anderson gave a refreshing take on content creation: it’s not marketing, it’s an extension of your consultation room. Her advice was to batch six to eight reels in 45 minutes every six weeks, using social media to reinforce education and build community.

[Tip: Think of every post as patient care in a digital format, a chance to educate, reassure, and connect.]

Integrating, not adding on

Fresh Life 2025 underscored that the future of aesthetics lies in integration, not add-ons. Business strategy, weight management, menopause, and even content creation aren’t extras to layer on top of clinical practice, they are now inseparable from it. For practitioners, the opportunity is to weave these conversations into everyday care so they become part of the patient journey, not an afterthought.

Clinics that embrace this integrated approach will be the ones to lead the industry forward. Learn more about Fresh Clinics and the Fresh Life at freshclinics.com/en-au/

Cryomed Welcomes Sofwave at an Elegant Capella Sydney Launch

AT THE EXCLUSIVE Capella Hotel Sydney, Cryomed’s marketing OG Mia officially launched Sofwave, the latest addition to their impressive portfolio of aesthetic technologies. The evening was nothing short of spectacular, reflecting the innovation and sophistication of the brand.

Guests were seated at two beautifully styled long tables adorned with white blooms, creating an elegant backdrop for a refined dinner. The food was exceptional, I opted for the barramundi, which was perfectly cooked and a big shout out for the crispy potatoes, there was such a vibe in the room, I sat alongside Jamal, RN, clinic owner of Lulu Aesthetica and Mala Mcalpin, Dermal clinician from Future Skin, and the conversation flowed easily among the 50+ guests – full house for a Monday night.

We heard from Emily Choy, Sofwave’s VP of APAC, who shared that the technology is now available in over 40 countries, with more than 400,000 treatments performed worldwide. Her insights underscored Sofwave’s growing global momentum and its exciting arrival into the Australian market.

The evening continued with an engaging panel discussion featuring Cryomed’s Chloe and Amanda, joined by Jeff Chen from Luxe Clinics, the first to bring Sofwave to Australia and now proudly operating three devices across his clinics. Registered Nurse Aly Rose highlighted the device’s ease of use and safety profile, zero downtime, and the outstanding results she’s achieving for clients. An interactive Q&A session wrapped up the night, giving guests a chance to explore the technology’s benefits further. It was a truly elegant and insightful evening.

A Luxurious 24 Hours on the Gold Coast: Idenel’s Queensland Launch at The Langham

Dermal Therapist and Founder of Kaelon Beauty; and Chloe Newman, National Sales Manager, Cryomed Capital Division.

THE GOLD COAST set the scene for a truly luxurious affair as industry guests gathered at The Langham, one of Queensland’s most elegant destinations, for the official Queensland launch of Idenel, hosted by Shelby and her team from Luxura Skin.

The event exuded sophistication and energy from the moment guests arrived, with a full house eager to learn more about the innovative Korean bio-needling range that’s making waves in Australia. Shelby’s passion for the brand was palpable as she shared her excitement for introducing Idenel’s science-backed Altum Technology to the local market.

Hosted by the always-entertaining Bianca Dye, who kept the crowd laughing, the evening blended glamour, education and live demo of Idenel application. Dr. Ian Chinesee and Jessica Bollington, Skin & Mind Coach and in-clinic trainer, guided guests through the impressive science behind the range including its 60-times higher absorption rate and transformative results and why they are two of the first practitioners to have in clinic.

As the sun set over the Gold Coast, guests left inspired by Idenel’s promise of next-generation skin rejuvenation and Luxura Skin’s commitment to bringing world-class innovation to Australian professionals.

Above, from the left: Brent van den Berg, Head of Cryomed; RN Jamal Ammar, Founder of Lulu Aesthetica and Skinxlulu; Kym Cowper, Partnerships Director at SPA+CLINIC; Madonna El Nachar,

2025 Synergie SynPosium

THE 2025 SYNERGIE SYNPOSIUM celebration of science, innovation, and connection celebrating two decades of Synergie Skin’s dedication to clean science and clinical integrity.

Day One offered guests an exclusive behind-thescenes experience at Synergie HQ in Melbourne, where they explored the brand’s state-of-the-art laboratory and witnessed the meticulous research, testing, and formulation processes that define Synergie’s results-driven skincare.

Day Two saw the official SynPosium unfold under the theme 20 Light Years of Synergie: Longevity, Wellness and Business Acceleration. The program brought together some of Australia’s most respected voices in skin science, business strategy, and holistic wellbeing. Founder and Formulator Terri Vinson Jones opened with 20 Light Years of Synergie, followed by thought-provoking sessions on leadership, business data, and marketing from experts including Suzie Hoitink, Vera Koslova-Fu, Vanessa McDonald, Jade Spehr, and Tamara Reid.

The afternoon turned its focus to women’s health with The Power Pause. A standout panel featuring Terri, Dr Jemima Grant, and Dr Sarah Boxley, exploring how hormonal shifts influence skin health and how evidence-based skincare can support women through menopause.

Terri concluded the day with a visionary presentation, Staying on the Cutting Edge of Innovation, offering attendees a glimpse into Synergie’s next scientific breakthrough. An inspiring, knowledge-rich event that truly reflected Synergie’s legacy and its bright, science-led future.

The 2025 Wellness Summit

HELD FROM OCTOBER 17–19 at Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat in the Gold Coast hinterland, the 2025 Wellness Summit, founded and hosted by Kris Abbey, brought together leading voices in wellness, spa, and tourism for three inspiring days of learning, connection, and celebration.

Day One welcomed guests with insightful keynote sessions exploring the future of wellness, longevity, and leadership, followed by the Welcome Dinner Under the Stars — a relaxed evening that perfectly captured Gwinganna’s spirit of balance and community.

Saturday’s program, themed Brain + Body + Bathing, blended education with experience. Delegates immersed themselves in thoughtprovoking talks, restorative sessions, and hands-on wellness practices designed to highlight both the business and personal side of wellbeing. The day concluded with the Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Awards, an elegant celebration recognising outstanding innovation, leadership, and purpose within the industry.

The final day closed with reflective discussions and a nourishing farewell lunch overlooking Gwinganna’s lush surrounds, the perfect ending to a weekend that left guests re-energised and inspired.

SOL Elements Bathhouse Opens In Tamborine Mountain

Blending Wabi Sabi Philosophy with Contemporary Luxury Treatments.

A NEW CHAPTER in holistic wellness is unfolding in the verdant hills of the Gold Coast hinterland. SOL Elements, an elemental bathhouse and spa sanctuary, is open in Tamborine Mountain Glades, a space where water, fire, air and earth come together in ancient healing rituals blended with contemporary luxury.

What SOL Elements Offers

SOL has been conceived as a sensory journey. The architecture itself is sculptural: a spiral of interconnected spaces that gradually immerses visitors in deeper states of relaxation and reconnection with nature.

Key features include:

• Elemental Bathhouse: Thermal pools enriched with minerals, invigorating cold plunges, a “Earth Lab” for scrubs, alfresco fire-pit, and a Himalayan Salt sanctuary.

• Floatation Caves: Warm, salt-infused water in private floatation pods to help melt away stress, tension and invite clarity.

• Secluded Suites: Private sanctuaries for couples or small groups (up to 5) combining an infrared sauna, ice bath, scrub and mask rituals, and a thermal bath balcony overlooking forest.

• Alchemy Spa Treatments: Rituals using Synthesis Organics, including gemstone facials, bioenergetic massages and treatments designed to balance the mind, body and the flow of “qi.”

Philosophy & location

Inspired by Wabi Sabi, the Japanese aesthetic that embraces transience, imperfection, and a deep connection with nature, SOL Elements

TGA Investigates SPF Claims

After 21 Sunscreens Flagged for SPF Shortfalls

AUSTRALIA’S SUNSCREEN landscape has been jolted by sweeping regulatory action: the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has confirmed that 21 sunscreen products using the same base formulation as Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen SPF 50+ are under review for failing to meet their labelled SPF claims.

The controversy burst into public view after Choice testing revealed severe discrepancies in SPF performance. Notably, Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen demonstrated SPF values between 4 and 64.32, depending on batch and lab. In response, the brand voluntarily recalled all batches and cancelled its ARTG listing.

Following that recall, the TGA identified 20 additional products sharing that same base formulation (manufactured by Wild Child Laboratories) and is actively assessing regulatory responses.

At present, sunscreen sponsors in Australia arrange SPF testing

aims to offer more than just a spa: a place to slow down, unplug, and re-discover rhythm with nature. It is built to be a retreat from urban fast-pace, nestled in the lush greenery of Tamborine Mountain.

Each element, Earth, Air, Fire, Water – is woven into the guest journey:

• Earth: cleansing rituals, scrubs, tactile natural textures.

• Air: Himalayan salt cave, open-air spaces, quiet breath and presence.

• Fire: cedar wood saunas, infrared saunas, fire pits.

• Water: thermal pools, ice baths, steam rooms.

The launch of SOL Elements signals a growing evolution in Australia’s wellness landscape, where consumers are looking beyond traditional spa treatments to experiences that combine mindfulness, ritual, and immersion in nature.

With its curated blend of elemental therapies, locally aligned philosophy, and unique architecture, SOL is set to become a destination not only for guests in the region but for wellness

through accredited third-party laboratories. While standard globally, this system has been criticised for inconsistency, variability across labs, and risk of “lab shopping.” As part of its response, the TGA is exploring inhouse or verification testing models, including in vitro methods (i.e. nonhuman testing), which may offer greater consistency and reproducibility.

The regulator acknowledges that ISO 24444 (in vivo SPF testing) involves significant variability due to human factors (individual skin response, application variation, redness assessment) and is therefore not perfectly reliable. The TGA does not currently perform in vivo SPF tests itself but does carry out broad spectrum and formulation testing under the Australian Standard AS/NZS 2604.

The Art of Balance

How dermaviduals’ Education Program is Blending Science, Touch, and Tradition

or more than 15 years, dermaviduals has stood at the forefront of Corneotherapy evidence-based, barrier-first skin health. But as the industry continues to evolve, so too does the brand’s approach to education, one that now embraces not only science and structure but also energy, intuition, and the art of connection.

At the centre of this evolution is Sandra, Clinical Educator (pictured left) for derma aesthetics, distributors of dermaviduals, whose work is helping redefine what it means to truly understand and care for the skin. By blending Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) philosophies with modern skin science, Sandra is guiding therapists to move beyond surface-level treatment and towards an integrated, human-centric understanding of skin function and wellbeing.

“When we apply intentional touch, we’re not just influencing the skin barrier. We’re inviting the client’s body to regulate, to rest. That’s where repair begins, when the nervous system feels safe.”

“Traditional Chinese Medicine is built on the idea of balance between the internal and external, mind and body,” she explains. “In this framework, the skin is not just a surface to treat but a storyteller. A reflection of what’s happening within.”

Through her workshops and education sessions, Sandra invites practitioners to see skin as a living system that communicates. “We guide our partners to recognise the connections between skin, systemic health, and emotional balance. When you learn to read the skin this way, you move from treating symptoms to interpreting communication.”

This philosophy has been brought to life through dermaviduals’ new Facial Reflexology workshop, a tactile, restorative training module designed to help therapists integrate mindful touch and acupressurebased techniques into their treatments. The results, Sandra says, have been transformative.

While dermaviduals’ reputation is built on Corneotherapy and barrier repair, Sandra believes that integrating movement, flow, and energy principles adds a new dimension to clinical practice.

“Science gives us the structure; energy gives us the nuance,” she says. “By supporting the natural movement of Qi and blood, we’re enhancing everything from oxygen transfer to lymphatic flow. Therapists can

see it. The skin softens, brightens, and responds differently. It’s science in motion.”

Additionally, dermaviduals Seasonal Skin Series, an initiative born from the continuous evolution of dermaviduals’ offerings and education, align treatment protocols and ingredients with the rhythyms of the seasons. Developed through a vibrant collaboration between the education, marketing, and sales teams, it empowers clinics to tailor treatments to seasonal skin behaviours with confidence and precision. With all products, training, and express treatment recipes delivered in one convenient package, clinics are equipped to offer timely, evidence-based care that resonates with the natural cycles of the skin.

“Just as nature transitions, our skin does too,” says Sandra. “Our partners are seeing that by working with the seasons rather than against them, focusing on hydration and barrier repair in winter, detoxification and renewal in spring, they’re achieving longer-lasting, more balanced results.”

The response from clinics has been overwhelmingly positive. “Our partners are reporting higher client satisfaction, improved retention, and renewed excitement around their offerings. Clients feel cared for, not just treated.”

As dermaviduals prepares to unveil its enhanced 2026 curriculum, the brand remains steadfast in its mission to elevate professional standards and empower the next generation of therapists.

Expanding on its strong foundation in Corneotherapy, the new curriculum will include advanced microneedling, cosmetic chemistry, and holistic practices such as facial reflexology, reinforcing dermaviduals’ position as an innovator in skin education.

“We’re seeing beauty, aesthetics, and wellness blend in exciting ways,” says Sandra. “Our role is to provide clarity and confidence as therapists navigate that evolution, grounding them in science while encouraging them to embrace new modalities that honour the whole person.”

For Sandra, education is about far more than technical skill, it’s about transformation. “Our goal is to help therapists reconnect with why they do what they do,” she reflects. “Because when you combine science with soul, you don’t just treat skin, you change lives.”

Find out more about the new curriculum at dermaviduals.com.au.

The Face Up Method

A Somatic Approach Redefining Beauty, Wellness, and Self-Connection

When it comes to facial wellness, few names are as influential as Olga Newman, the founder of The Face Up™ Method and The Face Up Club. Having worked with more than 2,000 clients worldwide, Olga has introduced a practice that extends well beyond surface aesthetics, offering a pathway to nervous system regulation, emotional release, and holistic self-care.

The Face Up™ Method has quickly earned a devoted following among high-profile figures seeking a natural alternative to injectables and invasive procedures. Grounded in fascia connection and somatic awareness, the approach not only refines facial contours but also restores balance throughout the body.

“Clients today are not simply searching for a facial treatment, they are seeking a somatic experience, something that helps them reconnect with themselves on a deeper level,” Olga explains. “True transformation requires working with the deeper structures and the inner life of the person, not just the surface.”

Global Expansion, Personal Connection

What began as Olga’s signature technique is now a worldwide movement. With over 200 certified practitioners across Europe, North America, and Australasia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Auckland, Face Up™ has established a strong international presence. Despite its global reach, the practice remains deeply personal, with each session adapted to the individual’s culture, heritage, and unique way of holding tension.

“For me, this universality is powerful,” says Olga. “Wherever it’s practiced, women are reconnecting with their strength, embracing self-care, and discovering beauty through wholeness rather than resistance to age.”

Emotional Release at the Core

A defining feature of the method is its ability to unlock stored emotions. With millions of nerve endings, the facial fascia records life’s imprints, emotions such as stress, joy, grief, or fear. Over time, these build into tension that shapes the face, restricting circulation and leaving fatigue etched into expression.

“The face is the filter of our lives,” Olga reflects. “When that tension is released, the face regains its vitality—we call it the ‘holiday face’: radiant, open, alive.”

Visible and Emotional Transformations

The shifts clients experience are as varied as the emotions they carry. For some, change is immediate, the face softens, the eyes brighten, even their colour seems more vivid. Others describe it as life-changing, a catalyst for choosing themselves more consciously in daily life and living with greater awareness of their needs.

For many, release arrives on the table in the form of tears or laughter; for others, it unfolds later, as if the body needed extra time to let go.

more cathartic. “Not everything can move in one session,” Olga explains. “Some people need more time, while others instinctively hold back. But whenever it comes, the transformation is always profound.”

Why Practitioners Are Embracing Face Up™

As global interest grows, Face Up™ has evolved into an international training program, with practitioners across major cities delivering the method to clients seeking authentic alternatives to machine-led or invasive treatments.

“The beauty of Face Up™ lies in its adaptability,” Olga explains. “Practitioners don’t just learn techniques, they learn to hold space, release tension, and respond to the individual in front of them. This is what makes it universal, while still deeply personal.”

What Does the Future Hold for Face Up™?

With international practitioner training expanding and The Face Up Club offering guided practices to thousands of women online, Olga’s mission remains rooted in accessibility and reconnection.

“In the constant noise of modern life, we are often cut off from our basic settings, the natural rhythms of the body. We forget how to feel ourselves, how to listen to our own needs. My mission is to bring more education to both professionals and everyday women: to give them tools, knowledge, and practices that restore connection to the body and to themselves,” she explains.

“Face Up™ reminds us that natural beauty is not about resisting age,” says Olga, “but about living in alignment, presence, and wholeness.”

Olga Newman, Founder & Creator of The Face Up™ Method and The Face Up Club

Here’s All You Need To Know About The New Cosmetic Nursing Foundations Course

Aimed to raise industry standards, this course aims to offer a clear pathway for nurses transitioning into aesthetics

With a wave of new regulations reshaping the cosmetic medical landscape this year, the pressure on practitioners to meet higher educational and clinical standards has never been greater. The expectations for cosmetic nurses now extend far beyond injectables, requiring well-rounded training in skin health, device treatments, and patient safety.

Identifying a significant gap in education for nurses transitioning from primary healthcare into aesthetics, Dermal Clinician, clinical trainer and founder of Beauty & Aesthetic Connection, Mala McAlpin has launched the industry’s first dedicated bridging program.

Introducing Nursing to Dermal: Bridging Course for Cosmetic Practitioners

This self-paced, fully online course is an evidence-based program designed to provide nurses with the essential knowledge required to thrive in skin-focused cosmetic clinics. The curriculum blends theory with interactive elements such as quizzes and reflective learning tasks, ensuring participants can apply concepts while accruing CPD points.

What

the course entails

Participants can expect comprehensive foundations across:

• Skin science: Anatomy, wound healing, barrier function, pigmentation, vascularity, ageing, and common disorders.

• Clinical confidence: Patient assessment, treatment selection, and personalised treatment planning.

• Device literacy: Evidence-

based theory behind chemical peels, microneedling, laser, IPL, RF, HIFU, and more.

• Safety protocols: Preventing and managing complications such as PIH, burns, and scarring, alongside risk management and aftercare.

• Ethics and professionalism: Practising within scope, adhering to codes of conduct, and prioritising patient safety.

• Career readiness: Aligning knowledge and practice with AHPRA’s updated non-surgical cosmetic guidelines.

Mala emphasises the purpose behind the program: “Being a cosmetic nurse isn’t just about learning a technique – it’s about critical thinking, patient assessment, and understanding the why behind every treatment decision. Our patients trust us with their faces, their confidence, and their safety. We owe it to them to be more than technicians – we must be true clinicians.”

Raising the standard of care

At its core, the Nursing to Dermal program is about lifting the industry’s educational benchmark. By equipping nurses with deep scientific knowledge and clinical judgement, the course aims to build not only competence but also credibility across the cosmetic medical sector.

Mala (pictured) explains the motivation behind the course: “Most cosmetic nurses are now performing not only injectables, but skincare and device treatments, and typically learn these on the job and through short topline training provided by device companies and skincare brands. But these aren’t anywhere near adequate when it comes to proper anatomy training, the science behind the technologies, or providing thorough skin consultations.”

Drawing on her extensive background as a Beauty Therapist, Dermal Clinician, RN student, and clinical trainer, Mala has crafted a curriculum that integrates both healthcare and aesthetics—a crucial step forward given AHPRA’s tightened regulations around practitioner competence.

“Education is the backbone of patient safety and industry credibility,” says Mala. “This isn’t just another cosmetic course–it’s about raising the standard of care, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring nurses are confident and compliant as they move into aesthetics.”

WRITTEN BY TANEESA WILLIAMSON

Fresh Faces

Discover the newest spas and clinics making waves in wellness and aesthetics.

Selene Spa & Wellness

Adelaide’s spa landscape welcomes a transformative new player with the launch of Selene Spa and Wellness. This CBD sanctuary elevates beauty and care through a mind-body wellness lens.

Bringing a series of Adelaide firsts, Selene introduces South Australia’s only cocoon infrared wellness pod, offering the benefits of detoxification, pain relief, immune support, and collagen stimulation without the intensity of traditional sauna heat. Complementing this innovation is a collection of Ayurvedic facial rituals, blending traditional herbal preparations with contemporary techniques for uniquely restorative treatments.

The vision comes from founder Katina Jones, whose 19 years of expertise across Ayurveda Village and Aspects of Healing have shaped Selene’s philosophy: to nourish body, mind, and spirit in equal measure. “Selene is more than a spa, it is a sanctuary for the soul,” she reflects. “Luxury here is defined by care, presence, and intention.”

Designed in collaboration with DC Architecture + Interior Design, the interiors echo this ethos with natural textures, soft furnishings, and a serene, organic flow. The result is an environment where East meets West, inviting guests to experience wellness not as an indulgence, but as a purposeful and transformative ritual.

The House Of Louve

Nestled in the medical precinct of Geelong, The House of Louve is the newest evolution of premium skin and wellness care. Founded by Registered Nurse and entrepreneur Elly Seymour, the clinic is designed as both a sanctuary and a science-driven space where advanced treatments meet timeless luxury.

Spread across three bespoke treatment rooms, the new clinic embodies understated elegance. Its interiors reflect a calm, minimal aesthetic while offering the very best in innovation, from medical-grade skin therapies and injectables to LED, micro-needling, and bioremodelling treatments. Each detail, from the

curated textures to the custom art has been considered to elevate the patient experience.

The House of Louve is not just a clinic, it is a destination. Patients are welcomed into an environment that feels as nurturing as it is results-driven, supported by a team of highly trained nurses.

Face By Alex Pike Toorak

Since 2012, Face by Alex Pike has been synonymous with precision aesthetics and elevated care. This August marked a new chapter with the opening of their Toorak clinic, a six-month build brought to life under the direction of Project Manager Matthew Derrick of Trusty Trades and builder MEKON. The result is a modern, clinically grounded space designed for both comfort and excellence.

“After years of travelling and training in New York, I was finally ready to create a new home for Face by Alex Pike in Toorak, a modern, clinical space I’m incredibly proud of.”

Alex’s journey with Toorak began in 2018 with a boutique clinic, later relocating to Chapel Street until 2022. When that building was sold, she embraced a period of travel and collaboration, sharing a space with colleague Mike Stevens and expanding her global perspective through ongoing education in the U.S.

Today, the Toorak clinic integrates advanced technologies including Aerolase and Excel V Cutera, supported by a dedicated team: Registered Nurse Jess, Dermal Therapist Belle, Practice Manager Tracy, and Alex’s son Hudson, currently studying commerce at Melbourne University. Together, they deliver the brand’s vision, where innovation meets artistry, and every treatment is a step towards refined, radiant skin.

Elixir Skin Fitness

Elixir Skin Fitness has opened the doors to its new home, a space that redefines what it means to experience regenerative aesthetics. More than a clinic, Elixir was conceived as an environment where health, longevity, and confidence come together under one roof. Every detail of the new space was designed to blend clinical excellence with the art of experience, offering not only proven results, but also a setting that feels restorative from the moment you arrive.

The new clinic embodies Elixir’s philosophy of prevention against accelerated ageing, intelligent care for inflammatory skin conditions, and a healthy-ageing approach for both skin and body. With state-of-the-art technology and evidence-based treatments, it delivers precision at every step, while maintaining the warmth and inclusivity the brand is known for.

“Our mission has always been to combine medical precision with a nurturing experience,” says Director and Dermal Therapist Rose Bonasera. “In this new space, that philosophy truly comes to life. Clients aren’t just receiving treatments; they’re stepping into an integrative journey that honours both their skin and their overall wellbeing.”

With elegant, luxurious interiors, the clinic elevates every aspect of the client journey – balancing advanced science with a soothing atmosphere designed to engage all the senses. Here, healing and transformation go hand-in-hand, setting a new benchmark for skin health in South Australia.

Elixir’s new space is more than a clinic. It’s a sanctuary for those who seek results, but also value how it feels to be cared for in a truly special environment.

Seven Treatment Protocols. One Gold Standard Device.

DR IAN CHINSEE reveals how Hydrafacial continues to set the benchmark for results, patient experience, and clinic success

Few technologies in aesthetics can claim the global recognition and loyal following that Hydrafacial has achieved. With seven customisable treatment protocols in one device, Hydrafacial continues to redefine what’s possible in non-invasive skin rejuvenation by delivering complete, head-to-toe results that combine science, luxury, and consistency.

At Inigo Clinic, located in the heart of Brisbane, founder Dr Ian Chinsee has seen first-hand how Hydrafacial’s innovation and accessibility have transformed both patient experiences and business outcomes.

“Hydrafacial has been instrumental in shaping Inigo Clinic’s reputation as a trusted destination for advanced skin health,” says Dr Chinsee. “It’s a treatment that people actively seek out, and it serves as the perfect introduction to our clinic, bringing new clients through the door and allowing us to guide them on longer-term treatment journeys.”

The Gold Standard in Skin Health

As a globally recognised leader in skin health treatments, Hydrafacial’s patented Vortex-Fusion® technology delivers a unique combination of cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, and antioxidant infusion, all within a single, seamless treatment.

“Hydrafacial’s ability to deliver visible results from the very first treatment builds immediate confidence and trust,” says Dr Chinsee. “Patients know they’ll walk out glowing. It’s also backed by strong clinical data and a global reputation for excellence, which reinforces our confidence as practitioners.”

It’s this blend of science-backed performance and sensory appeal that makes Hydrafacial such a powerful tool for modern clinics. As patient expectations continue to evolve toward experiences that deliver both efficacy and enjoyment, Hydrafacial stands out for its ability to meet both.

Seven Protocols, Endless Possibilities

Hydrafacial’s seven treatment protocols allow practitioners to tailor solutions for a full spectrum of skin types. From acne management and pigmentation correction to anti-ageing and brightening. Each step can be customised with targeted boosters, LED therapy, or lymphatic drainage, allowing for fully personalised treatment journeys.

“The versatility of Hydrafacial has been a true growth driver,” explains Dr Chinsee. “We can tailor every session to meet specific skin concerns, and it integrates beautifully with our other aesthetic modalities. This flexibility has helped us expand our offerings and deliver truly bespoke care.”

Patients notice the difference too and that’s what keeps them coming back. The treatment’s adaptability means it fits seamlessly within combination protocols, pre-event prep, or ongoing maintenance plans, providing both immediate gratification and long-term results.

Where Luxury Meets Clinical Performance

At Inigo Clinic, the patient experience is just as important as the clinical outcome and Hydrafacial has become an integral part of that philosophy.

“We believe skincare should feel as good as it looks,” says Dr Chinsee. “Hydrafacial embodies that perfectly. It delivers immediate, glowing results while offering moments of relaxation and indulgence. It’s become a signature part of the Inigo experience, and patients genuinely look forward to it.”

This harmony between results and ritual has not only elevated Inigo’s patient satisfaction but has also strengthened brand identity. By bridging the gap between advanced medical-grade treatment and spa-like comfort, Hydrafacial aligns with the clinic’s premium positioning and its commitment to evidence-based beauty.

Innovation That Evolves With the Industry

As the aesthetics landscape continues to advance, Hydrafacial remains at the forefront of innovation. With ongoing developments in booster formulations, AI-driven skin analysis, and protocol expansion. The platform continues to evolve, giving practitioners new tools to meet the changing needs of patients.

“Hydrafacial provides a platform for continual growth,” says Dr Chinsee. “Whether through new boosters or enhanced personalisation, it’s a technology that keeps getting better. On a broader scale, its commitment to education, research, and global collaboration is pushing the industry toward more holistic, patient-centred skincare solutions.”

And as demand continues to grow, so too does Inigo Clinic’s investment.

“This is our second Hydrafacial device and we’re already looking at purchasing another one,” adds Dr Chinsee.

With its unmatched versatility, consistency, and results-driven approach, Hydrafacial continues to set the benchmark for professional skin rejuvenation proving that one device really can do it all.

To learn more about Hydrafacial and explore how it can transform your clinic’s patient experience, visit Hydrafacial.com.au

From Stress to Strategy

How Ebony Aesthetics Built a Business That Runs Without Her

When Ebony launched Ebony Aesthetics, she had ambition, drive, and a strong desire to create a clinic that delivered exceptional results. After completing a small group coaching program through JadeStart, she laid the early foundations for a growing business. But as her team expanded and she prepared to welcome her second child, she knew something had to change. Juggling business and motherhood the first time around had left her stressed and stretched thin. This time, she wanted to experience maternity leave without the guilt and anxiety of leaving the clinic behind. She wanted freedom, stability, and a clear path forward.

That’s when Ebony partnered with JadeStart again, this time through their 12-month consulting program and marketing agency. But before any action was taken, the process started with something many business owners skip: intentional planning.

Through a tailored business planning process, Ebony mapped out what she wanted her life and business to look like in the year ahead. She clarified her goals, identified the gaps in her business model, and co-created a strategy to ensure the clinic would not only stay afloat during her leave but continue to thrive.

• New clients grew by 124.5%

• Service sales lifted by 34.6%

The clinic took out the Local Business Award for Best Beauty and Cosmetic Clinic

But for Ebony, the biggest win wasn’t just the numbers, it was the freedom. She took extended time off to have her baby when he was born, travelled through Europe on a guilt free holiday for a month, and enjoy family holidays while the business ran smoothly in her absence. Today, she continues to lead with clarity and confidence, with her clinic growing under the guidance of a strong manager and empowered team.

What followed was a complete transformation, both in her clinic’s performance and in her role as a business owner.

With JadeStart’s help, Ebony upskilled her receptionist into a capable clinic manager who now leads the team with confidence. Her staff became stronger in their consultations, more effective at selling products, and better equipped to upsell into services that enhance the client journey. Marketing strategies were rebuilt from the ground up, leading to a major spike in new client acquisition, far outperforming previous campaigns run by external agencies.

The financial results speak for themselves:

• Product sales increased by 245.5%

• Total sales rose by 37.5%

Her story is a reminder of what’s possible when you stop reacting and start planning. And it all started with a clear vision and a business plan that aligned with the life she wanted.

Ready to Plan Your Breakthrough Year?

If you’re a clinic owner or beauty business professional who wants 2026 to look and feel different, JadeStart is hosting a free online Business Planning Workshop on 12 January 2026 at 11 am Qld time.

In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to map out strategic goals, audit your business model, and create a clear, written plan to grow your business without burning out. You’ll identify what’s working, what’s not, and where to focus your energy for real, measurable results in the year ahead.

You’ll walk away with:

• The framework for a written business plan for 2026

• A traffic light diagnosis of your key growth areas

• A roadmap to stay on track and scale with purpose

This isn’t a motivational session. It’s a hands-on planning workshop designed to give you the same clarity and structure that helped Ebony step into true business ownership.

Spots are limited. To register, visit jadestart.com/BusinessPlanningWorkshop

The Software Transforming How Nurses Operate

Why Aesthetic Nurse Software Is Becoming Essential for Efficiency, Compliance, and Clinical Excellence

Aesthetic clinics are embracing smarter, more connected systems - and Aesthetic Nurse Software (ANS) is leading the way with the launch of its new Integrations Bundle. Designed to reduce admin, improve efficiency and enhance client communication, this bundle brings together industry-leading tools into one seamless workflow: Xero, Mailchimp, GoCardless and Afterpay.

It marks the next evolution of the ANS platform - already trusted for its all-in-one clinical records, consent, booking, treatment and compliance workflows. Now, clinics can automate financials, run targeted marketing, simplify subscriptions and offer flexible payment options, all from within a single, fully integrated, medical-grade system.

Built by a nurse for aesthetic professionals, ANS brings together every part of a clinic’s workflow in one place - eliminating fragmented tools and replacing them with a platform purpose-built for the everyday realities of Australian medical aesthetics.

One Platform. Everything You Need.

ANS brings together all the tools clinics rely on day-to-day, giving practitioners a seamless workflow that saves time, reduces errors and elevates the patient experience.

Clinical Essentials, Built for Compliance

• Secure digital patient records aligned with AHPRA documentation standards

• Paperless consent and medical screening forms sent automatically pre-appointment

• Before-and-after photography stored securely with correct consent and timestamps

• Digital prescriptions that streamline scripting and telehealth workflows

Smarter Patient Journeys

• Online bookings and deposits to reduce admin and no-shows

• Automations for recalls, reminders and review prompts that help maintain a full diary

• Gift vouchers and retention tools that support consistent revenue growth

Tools That Support Your Business

• Live reporting on revenue, treatment trends and patient retention

• Inventory tracking with automated low-stock alerts

• Built-in email and SMS marketing to engage clients effortlessly

All of this - bookings, records, consent, photos, prescriptions, stock and automations - is available with plans starting from just $50 per

month, making ANS one of the most complete and affordable systems in the industry.

And with free data transfer, switching from your current platform is simple and stress-free.

Designed for Medical Aesthetics

Generic practice software can only take a clinic so far. ANS is intentionally crafted for cosmetic medicine - meaning every workflow, form and clinical pathway reflects how aesthetic practitioners operate in the real world.

Because ANS was created by a nurse, the platform naturally aligns with AHPRA guidance and the documentation standards required in a regulated medical environment. From clinical photography to treatment notes, consent pathways and follow-up protocols, every step is structured to support safe, consistent and audit-ready practice.

As guidelines evolve, ANS evolves with them - ensuring clinics remain compliant without needing to constantly update processes manually.

Introducing the New Integrations Bundle

The new Integrations Bundle takes ANS even further, connecting your clinical platform with trusted third-party tools to reduce manual admin and unlock new efficiency:

• Xero: automated bookkeeping and financial reporting

• Mailchimp: targeted email campaigns and patient communication

• GoCardless: streamlined subscription and membership payments

• Afterpay: flexible payment options that improve conversion and client accessibility

Together, these integrations give clinics a modern, connected ecosystem - without the complexity or the high price tag often associated with enterprise software.

Support From People Who Understand Your Clinic

Every ANS user receives personalised onboarding, free training and responsive local support from a team who genuinely understand the pressures of running an aesthetic clinic. Practitioners consistently praise the platform’s usability and the hands-on support that comes with it.

LIMITED TIME OFFER: Join Now & Get 3 Months Free

There has never been a better time to switch.

Start your free trial, explore the platform, and sign up to pay nothing until February 2026. (Offer ends 31st Dec 2025)

Visit aestheticnursesoftware.com or book a demo info@aestheticnursesoftware.com

‘Botox’ Still Most Searched Online, But Regenerative Treatments Are on the Rise

Here’s what people in different countries are looking for this year

Anew global analysis of search trends has revealed what the world is most curious about when it comes to aesthetic treatments. While Botox continues to dominate, the data shows an undeniable shift toward regenerative and wellness-based procedures.

The study, conducted by beauty and wellness booking platform Fresha, analysed Google search volumes across the UK, US, UAE, and Australia, uncovering how different markets are redefining beauty in 2025.

Unsurprisingly, Botox remains the most searched treatment worldwide, attracting over 3 million monthly searches in the US alone. But the findings also highlight a fast-emerging category of “nextgeneration” treatments – those that focus on collagen stimulation, cellular repair, and natural-looking rejuvenation rather than dramatic results.

Beauty by Region

In the UK, Botox continues to lead with 1.5 million monthly searches, but regenerative treatments like Polynucleotide Injections have surged by 190% year-on-year, alongside a notable 87% rise in Lemon Bottle Fat Dissolving searches. The data suggests that British consumers are embracing tweakments that promise a refreshed “holiday glow” effect rather than visible enhancement.

Across the US, Botox also takes the top spot, followed by Hair Transplants and IV Drips – a trend reflecting the nation’s growing fascination with wellness, biohacking, and longevity clinics.

Meanwhile, in the UAE, known for its forward-thinking approach to aesthetics, Thread Lifts and Polynucleotide Injections have experienced more than 160% growth in searches this year. The market’s appetite for minimal-downtime procedures aligns with the region’s luxury lifestyle and high demand for subtle, efficient results.

Closer to home, Australia’s aesthetic landscape shows a steady interest in preventative treatments such as Botox and Hyaluronic Acid Fillers, but also a rising curiosity about wellness-driven services like IV Drips and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. With Australians increasingly prioritising holistic self-care, this crossover between aesthetics and wellness continues to grow stronger.

The Global Growth Leaders

Across all regions, five treatments have seen the sharpest increases in global search interest year-on-year:

• Polynucleotide Injections (+188%)

• Thread Lifts (+142%)

• IV Drips (+103%)

• Lemon Bottle Treatments (+87%)

• Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (+76%)

Natural But Enhanced

According to Danielle Louise, Beauty and Skincare Expert at Fresha, this trend represents more than just a passing phase:

“We’re seeing a global shift towards regenerative, subtle results – the kind that make people ask if you’ve been on holiday, not what clinic you went to,” she explains. “In 2025, ‘natural but enhanced’ is the beauty brief everywhere from London to Dubai.”

As consumers become increasingly informed and ingredient-savvy, the desire for treatments that restore rather than reshape is reshaping the global aesthetics industry.

Botox may still hold the crown, but regenerative injectables and wellness therapies are clearly next in line.

The Future of Scalp Health

Inside Gro Clinics’ New Exomide Scalp Treatment

Gro Clinics, a leader in hair restoration across Australia and New Zealand, has unveiled its most advanced innovation yet, the Exomide Scalp Treatment. This nextgeneration approach represents an evolution in how scalp care is delivered, offering a structured method designed to support scalp condition and the appearance of healthier-looking hair.

Now available across all Gro Clinics in Australia and New Zealand, Exomide complements both surgical and non-surgical hair restoration treatments. By integrating exosome technology into its clinical toolkit, Gro Clinics extends its results-driven philosophy, now offering patients access to one of the most advanced topical scalp treatments available today.

What Makes Exomide Different

Exosomes are emerging as one of the most exciting frontiers in cosmetic innovation, inspiring new approaches to supporting skin and scalp condition. Within this evolving landscape, Exomide stands apart as the first exosome-based topical formulation introduced in Australia and New Zealand, bringing Korean cosmetic science to local clinics in a refined, accessible way.

Exomide Scalp has been developed specifically to complement in-clinic scalp care, offering a formulation designed for professional use and structured application. Its lightweight, highly stable exosome-based blend is created to work synergistically with Gro’s protocols, enhancing the cosmetic experience while supporting the appearance of balanced, healthier-looking scalp and hair.

Under the guidance of Gro’s medical team, the application method follows a dedicated protocol that reflects best-practice scalp conditioning. This structured approach ensures consistency, precision, and a premium client experience—delivering a level of detail that sets Exomide apart within the cosmetic scalp-care category.

Who It’s For

The treatment is designed for individuals seeking a non-surgical, drug-free cosmetic approach to supporting scalp condition and the appearance of fuller, healthier-looking hair. It may be considered by those who are:

• Noticing early signs of thinning or reduced hair volume

• Seeing general, gradual changes in fullness across areas such as the crown or part line

• Looking to complement the results of a previous hair transplant

• Wanting to support scalp condition and maintain the appearance of density as part of a long-term care routine

Suitability is determined through consultation with Gro’s

experienced clinicians, who tailor each program to the individual’s scalp condition, medical history, and aesthetic goals.

What Can Patients Expect?

The Exomide Scalp experience is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure designed to support overall scalp condition and the appearance of healthier-looking hair. During each session, the exosome-based cosmetic formulation is applied topical during or after microneedling of the scalp.

A typical treatment course includes four sessions spaced over six to eight weeks, followed by maintenance treatments every few months, depending on each patient’s progress.

Because hair grows in natural cycles, changes appear gradually. Clients may initially notice improvements in scalp comfort and texture, followed by the appearance of fuller, healthier-looking strands over time. Ongoing maintenance can help support the look and feel of balanced scalp condition in the long term.

The Science So Far

Exosomes are an emerging area of interest within cosmetic science, with ongoing research exploring their potential role in supporting skin and scalp condition. Early studies have examined how exosome-based formulations may influence the appearance of hair fullness, though researchers highlight that longer-term data is still needed to understand the extent and consistency of cosmetic outcomes.

Gro Clinics continues to monitor developments in this field, integrating evidence-based insights and rigorous clinical protocols to ensure each cosmetic service is delivered with a focus on safety, quality, and transparency.

Why It Matters

For Gro Clinics, the introduction of Exomide represents more than a new treatment option. It reflects a movement toward advanced, science-informed scalp care that recognises the importance of scalp condition in achieving the appearance of healthy, fuller-looking hair. By integrating exosome therapy into its clinical offering, Gro continues to bridge the gap between innovation and everyday patient experience- redefining what’s possible in modern hair restoration. Learn more about Exomide at exomide.com.au.

Leveraging Your Partners for Events

How

Skin by Sarah Hudson made her TriLift launch a success through collaboration.

Launching a new treatment can be a milestone moment for any clinic, but it’s also a significant financial and logistical undertaking.

For Sarah Hudson, founder of Skin By Sarah Hudson, the recent launch of triLift was more than just introducing a new technology. It became a masterclass in how planning, partnerships, and post-event strategy can turn a high-pressure launch into long-term growth.

We sat down with Sarah to unpack how she and Lumenis worked together to build momentum before the event, create impact on the night, and maximise sales afterwards.

Building the Momentum

“I’m so glad you asked me this question,” Sarah said, when we asked what went into the launch strategy. “It made me revisit just how much effort the SbySH team put in. The key was lead-up time, planning, and a well-executed strategy.”

Sarah’s three-month timeline began even before purchasing triLift, when she sat down with the Lumenis team to compare technologies and map out how the device could fit into her clinic. From there, she committed to a full treatment course herself, capturing her own before-and-after results to anchor the campaign.

Those results fed into EDMs, social teasers, and speaking opportunities, building anticipation not just among clients but also within the wider industry. “Having my own results to share was invaluable,” Sarah said. “It made the education real.”

Lumenis also supported with marketing materials, social collaborations, and even an e-book co-branded with Skin By Sarah Hudson, ensuring consistent messaging and professional polish in the lead-up.

On the Night

Held at a local wine bar rather than inside the clinic, the launch was designed to feel more like an exclusive night out. Guests paid a $50 attendance fee (redeemable against packages), which Sarah says was a key step in ensuring attendance and commitment.

The event itself combined three elements: a PowerPoint presentation

showcasing documented results, a live treatment demonstration with a Lumenis educator, and a one-night-only package offer. Guests also enjoyed champagne, canapés, and a luxury goodie bag valued at $300, which Sarah curated to feel generous and thoughtful.

“My most successful launches are never in-clinic,” Sarah noted. “Choosing a venue adds a sense of occasion, and clients feel like VIPs.”

Closing the Loop

Sarah is clear that the event was only the midpoint of her strategy. “The pre-event strategy, promotional campaign, one-night-only offer, and post-event follow-up enabled us to generate almost enough money to pay off the machine,” she explained.

Follow-up was immediate and personalised. Guests received an email one hour after the event, while non-purchasers were contacted with individual phone calls the following week. Additional EDMs captured interest from those who couldn’t attend, while triLift continued to feature in the clinic’s marketing in the three months that followed.

The results went beyond treatment package sales. The launch boosted retail sales, attracted new clients, and reinforced Skin By Sarah Hudson’s position as a destination for advanced skin treatments.

Lessons for Clinic Owners

Reflecting on the launch, Sarah highlighted the key ingredients to success:

• Plan three months in advance, with dedicated pre- and post-event strategies.

• Invest in team education and firsthand experience with the treatment.

• Charge a nominal fee to secure committed attendance.

• Elevate the experience by hosting at an external venue.

• Capture and share authentic before-and-after results.

• Don’t stop at the event, post-event follow-up is critical.

For Sarah, the triLift launch wasn’t just a technology introduction. It was proof that with strategy, creativity, and the right partners, a launch event can deliver immediate ROI while also strengthening long-term brand credibility.

RHashtags are Dead!

Here’s what you should be focusing on with Social Media according to TEALLE ANDERSON!

emember when a perfectly curated grid and the right hashtag combo could send your post viral overnight? Those days are long gone. According to social media strategist Tealle Anderson, hashtags no longer carry the weight they once did.

With over seven years’ experience, including managing socials, content, and community at Fresh Clinics, Tealle has developed practical frameworks for even the toughest social media environments. Known for her ability to make social media simple, sustainable, and fun, she specialises in helping entrepreneurs create compliant, impactful content strategies that actually grow their businesses. For Tealle, the goal isn’t chasing hacks, it’s building content that connects, adapts, and keeps your audience coming back.

Keywords are the New Hashtags

With the oversaturation of content, users have shifted to using Instagram and TikTok as search engines. “Most searches look like: ‘location + service’,” Tealle explains. “So if you’re a Gold Coast Dermal Therapist, make sure that exact phrase appears in your bio and captions.”

Instead of brainstorming endless hashtag sets, Tealle recommends keeping a bank of 10–15 popular search terms that can be woven naturally into posts. Phrases like ‘Gold Coast Hydrafacial’ or ‘Glass Skin’ become powerful discovery tools when embedded in captions, overlaid as hidden text on video, or even used within alt text. “Platforms are reading everything,” she says. “Accurate captions and keyword-rich descriptions increase your chance of surfacing in Explore.”

Stop Chasing Algorithms – Start Understanding Them

Keeping up with algorithm changes can feel like a full-time job, but Tealle insists it doesn’t have to overwhelm. “Find one or two creators who share updates in the format you love – podcasts, YouTube, Instagram, and follow them consistently,” she advises. And for Instagram purists, she points straight to the source: Adam Mosseri (@mosseri), Head of Instagram.

On TikTok, trial and error still rules. If your content isn’t hitting, it’s often because the algorithm hasn’t yet found your audience. The fix? Double down on SEO, hooks, and value. “No hack beats knowing your audience,” Tealle says. “Once you’ve built that, consistency is key, while still giving yourself permission to test new things.”

Sound, Alt Text, and the New Growth Formula

The rise of short-form video has changed everything, and audio is now a major driver of reach. But don’t just click the ‘trending’ tab. “The best temperature check for trending sounds is your own feed,” Tealle says. “Scroll daily, it’s guilt-free, you’re doing market research!”

Even neutral, upbeat tracks can boost visibility. Pair this with clear, keyword-rich alt text (think: ‘nurse explaining skin health at clinic desk’), and your content is more likely to surface in search results while also remaining accessible.

Growth Beyond Hashtags

When The Hair & The Honey salon plateaued at 10k followers, Tealle knew it was time to evolve.

“We pivoted to trends and relationship building,” she recalls. By showcasing salon personalities and tapping into creative trends, the brand grew to 15.7k. “We’re always adapting, the algorithm is shifting again, so our content is pivoting too.”

What To Do When a Post Flops

Tealle’s golden rule: detach your emotions. Instead, analyse. Was the hook strong in the first three seconds? Was the content high quality? Was it posted at the right time? Low reach signals a discoverability issue, while low engagement suggests the message didn’t resonate. “Repackage the idea rather than scrapping it,” she says. “Turn a reel into a carousel, or rewrite the caption. Use underperforming posts as feedback, not failure.”

The Art of Restraint

Inside FACE FORME’s Skin-First Philosophy

There’s a stillness that greets you at FACE FORME. The kind that only comes from spaces designed with purpose. Sunlight spills softly across nude-toned walls, brass accents catch the light, and each element feels quietly considered. This is not a clinic built for spectacle; it’s a space designed for intention.

“It was really important to me that FACE FORME feels calm, minimal, and refined,” says Jana Joveljic, the clinic’s founder and lead aesthetic nurse. “Every detail is there for a reason. It reflects how we approach work. With subtlety, precision, and respect for the natural structure of the face.”

FACE FORME embodies a movement that has been steadily reshaping the industry: the shift away from cosmetic work that looks exaggerated or artificial, and toward an aesthetic built on integrity. Rather than the rushed and overdone “quick fixes” that defined much of the past decade, the clinic champions transformations that evolve progressively- results that remain refined, believable, and in harmony with the face.

“The industry is evolving,” Jana explains. “People are tired of looking ‘done.’ They want to feel like the best version of themselves — rested, hydrated, radiant — but still recognisable. My job is to make that look effortless.”

The focus is not on erasing every line or chasing a specific ideal, but on cultivating quality, luminosity, and consistency in the skin over time. Because the truth is, we could have all the volume in the world and not a wrinkle in sight. Yet without healthy, well-supported skin, the face can still look tired, even older than before.

This understanding has shaped FACE FORME’s entire treatment philosophy. In recent years, the demand for natural, refreshed results has grown exponentially. At the same time, increased regulation around Schedule 4 medications has redirected attention toward skin education and regenerative therapies. Within this new landscape, skin has become both the clinical cornerstone and the business foundation.

“For me, skin is where everything begins,” says Jana. “When we correct function at a cellular level first, everything else starts to follow. It’s the difference between treating the surface and treating the source.”

At FACE FORME, each journey begins with a personalised program that addresses the skin holistically. The process starts with a compounded prescription skincare formulation, essential fatty acids, and tailored nutritional protocols designed to restore function from within. From there, advanced modalities are layered to stimulate regeneration and refine texture.

Additionally, FACE FORME integrates skin needling with targeted boosters such as Exomide, Rejuran, NCTF, PRP, or PRF, alongside cornerstone treatments like HydraFacial and clinical peels. Once the skin is functioning optimally, tools such as threads or prescription treatments are introduced.

“When we work this way, results are more natural, more stable, and longer lasting,” Jana notes. “We’re not chasing perfection. We’re creating balance. The goal is to make subtle changes that build over time and age beautifully.”

This method brings harmony to both patient experience and business sustainability. Treatments can be spaced more affordably without compromising outcomes, while patients experience continual improvement and connection throughout the process.

“Skin-first aesthetics isn’t just good medicine,” Jana adds. “It’s good business. Patients who see consistent change month after month trust you more, and they stay longer. That trust is everything.”

In an industry once defined by instant gratification, FACE FORME represents a quiet kind of confidence. Its success lies not in dramatic before-and-after transformations, but in the way patients feel when they leave.

“Subtlety is powerful,” says Jana. “It takes more skill to do less, but the result is so much more beautiful.”

Jana Joveljic, founder and lead aesthetic nurse

Is Your Spa or Clinic Protected Against Cybercrime?

BizCover, Australia’s leading online small business insurance provider, reveals why businesses in the wellness and aesthetics industry may be targets for cybercriminals.

Running a spa or clinic is about more than delivering fabulous service. It’s also about managing the digital tools that help to keep your business running smoothly. But as technology becomes more essential to daily operations, it also introduces risk.

Your business could be at risk of a cyberattack

Many small businesses assume that cybercriminals only go after large corporations. However, hackers often target small businesses because their cybersecurity measures are typically weaker than those of larger organisations.

Why would cybercriminals target a spa or clinic?

Small businesses in the aesthetics and wellness industry collect and store valuable customer data (such as client contact details, payment information, plus employee payroll and tax details), which can make them attractive targets for cybercriminals.

Stolen personally identifiable information can be a very lucrative haul for cybercriminals, who can potentially use this information for identity theft or financial fraud.

It’s not just about stealing data, however. In some cases, cybercriminals use tactics such as ransomware, where they lock down your files and demand a payment to restore access. Others may target your website, booking system or payment terminals, creating chaos for your team and frustration for your clients.

What are the potential impacts of a cyberattack?

If your spa or clinic suffers a breach, the consequences can be severe. You could face business downtime and financial losses.

A cyberattack could also severely damage the reputation of the business. Clients trust you with their personal and payment details. A cyber breach could break that trust and potentially discourage them from coming back.

The impacts often extend further than many business owners initially realise. Beyond the direct costs (such as replacing compromised systems or paying for legal support) you may need to notify clients about the breach, which can be both time-consuming and stressful. You may also have to deal with regulatory requirements, especially if sensitive client health information has been exposed.

What is Cyber Liability insurance and does my business need it?

Cyber Liability insurance is designed to help protect a business from claims and support profitability in the event of a cyber breach or attack. Costs associated with defending a cyber claim are also covered.

Think about the possibility of your customer information being hacked, being the victim of phishing due to clicking a dodgy link or being subject to ransomware. These few examples can bring your business to a grinding halt and impact you financially. This is why you may wish to consider Cyber Liability insurance if you use digital tools to help run your business, such as:

• An online booking system or a customer database.

• A point-of-sale machine.

• Devices like a smartphone, tablet or laptop that are connected to the internet.

• Smart security systems.

Even if you feel your business is “too small” to be a target, remember that cybercriminals often use automated tools to scan for vulnerabilities. This means they don’t need to specifically know your business to attack it – they just need to find an open door.

Having Cyber Liability insurance can help to give you peace of mind that if something does go wrong, you will have the support you need to get back on your feet.

Get covered with BizCover

Running your own business takes time, effort and dedication.

BizCover understands small business owners and the challenges that clinics and spas face.

That’s why BizCover makes it easy for you to purchase, review or renew insurance. Visit BizCover.com.au or call our friendly team on 1300 805 821 to compare quotes today.

This information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. It should not be relied upon as advice. As with any insurance, cover will be subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions contained in the policy wording or Product Disclosure Statement (available on our website). Please consider whether the advice is suitable for you before proceeding with any purchase. Target Market Determination document is also available (as applicable).

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From One Clinic to Three

How Venus Technology Supported Art of Aesthetics’ expansion to three clinics in a few short years.

From Recognition to Momentum

When Nurse Jaclyn Isaacs (Jaci) appeared on the cover of SPA+CLINIC in 2021, her brand Art of Aesthetics was at the beginning of its journey. That recognition marked a milestone, one that gave her the confidence to step further into her role as a leader in aesthetics.

Fast forward to today, and Jaci’s business has flourished. With three thriving clinics and a reputation built on patient care, trust, and results, she has established herself as one of Australia’s most dynamic nurse entrepreneurs. A central part of her success? The strong integration of Venus technology, which she credits as a consistent driver of both clinical outcomes and business growth.

A Milestone in 2021

Reflecting on her first SPA+CLINIC cover, Jaci recalls how pivotal that moment was:

“That moment in 2021 was a real milestone for me. Being recognised so early in my journey gave me a boost of confidence and reminded me that I was on the right path. Looking back now, with three clinics thriving, I feel incredibly proud, not just of what I’ve achieved personally, but of the team and community we’ve built together. It shows me how far we’ve come and how much potential there still is to grow.”

Scaling with Care

Expanding from one clinic to three has brought enormous achievements, but also challenges. For Jaci, the key has been staying true to patient-centred care while scaling the systems behind it.

“The growth has really been driven by a clear focus on patient care and consistency in the results we deliver. Word of mouth and trust have been powerful drivers, because when people feel cared for, they naturally share their experiences. Of course, with expansion comes challenges, recruiting and training the right team, ensuring our standards remain consistent across multiple locations, and managing the business side of things as we scale. Each challenge has been a learning curve, but they’ve made us stronger.”

Technology has played a role here too. By investing early in Venus devices, Jaci created treatment protocols that were repeatable and consistent, ensuring every patient, no matter which location they visited, could expect the same high standard of care.

Why Venus Versa Pro™ Was the Next Step

Venus technology has been part of Art of Aesthetics since its inception. But with patient expectations evolving and competition increasing, Jaci saw the need to take treatments to the next level.

“Venus technology has been part of our clinics from the very beginning because it gives us the flexibility to address a wide range of skin concerns with confidence. Bringing in the Venus Versa Pro™ was a natural next step, it allows us to offer more advanced, multi-modality treatments in one platform. For patients, it means we can create more tailored solutions for their individual needs. For the business, it’s helped us stand out in a competitive market and given us the ability to keep innovating in the treatments we provide.”

With its combination of modalities, including IPL, fractional skin resurfacing, and multi-polar radiofrequency, the Venus Versa Pro™ offers her clinics a platform for comprehensive, customisable care. Importantly, it’s scalable. The same protocols can be taught, shared, and rolled out across multiple clinics without compromising patient outcomes.

The Trust Factor

Jaci has also become known for her 90% consultation conversion rate, a figure that speaks volumes about her ability to connect with patients.

“For me, the consultation is about connection, not selling. I take the time to really listen, understand their concerns, their goals, and even their hesitations. I focus on education, explaining what’s possible and what’s realistic, so patients feel empowered to make decisions. Our patients want results, we want results for our patients, so it’s about working alongside our patients as a partnership in working towards achieving their goals. That honesty and transparency builds trust, and when people feel heard and supported, they’re more comfortable moving forward.”

Technology as a Growth Partner

It’s clear that for Jackie, success hasn’t come from chasing every new trend, it’s come from carefully choosing technologies that support both patients and business goals.

Venus technology has helped her clinics:

• Differentiate in a crowded market by offering advanced treatments with less downtime.

• Build consistency across three locations with reproducible treatment outcomes.

• Streamline investment by housing multiple modalities in one device.

• Support team training with accessible technology that can be integrated into patient pathways. This approach has allowed her clinics to expand sustainably while maintaining the personalised care Jaci is known for.

Shaping the Future

For Jaci, the future of Art of Aesthetics is about balance. Continuing to expand while also giving back to the industry.

“What excites me most is the opportunity to keep growing while staying true to our values. I see us continuing to expand our reach, embracing new technologies, and offering even more comprehensive care for our patients. But just as importantly, I’m passionate about mentoring the next generation of nurses and practitioners in aesthetics. Creating a positive impact, both for our patients and for the industry as a whole, is what drives me every day.”

Nurse Jaci’s journey demonstrates that growth in aesthetics isn’t about chasing every new device or trend, it’s about making the right partnership choices and staying true to your vision. By aligning with technology that supports her values and patientfirst approach, she has been able to expand Art of Aesthetics without compromising on care or results. We cant wait to see where Jaci is at another few years from now when she is back on the cover. Learn how the Venus can support your clinic’s growth journey at venus.ai.

Heart, Vision, and Fearlessness

Inside Elara where Serenity Meets Science

Transforming a raw 300-square-metre shell into Adelaide’s largest medi-spa isn’t for the faint-hearted, but for Bea and Jo, the duo behind Elara Spa, boldness was the point.

When they first walked through the empty space at Burnside Village, they saw more than concrete walls and construction dust. They saw potential for a destination that could seamlessly blend the serenity of a spa with the precision of advanced aesthetics.

“I’ve always dreamed big,” says Bea with a laugh. “When Burnside gave me the choice between a smaller space or the full 300 square metres, I thought, ‘Go big or go home.’ Every time I’ve taken a risk, it’s paid off, so I knew I had to trust my gut.”

Just two months after opening, that gamble is already paying off. Elara’s bookings have surpassed expectations, the team is growing, and the clinic has quickly become one of Adelaide’s most talked-about wellness experiences.

“I wanted to build something that offered services no one else was doing,” Bea continues. “A place where you can truly relax and treat yourself but also achieve results that make a real difference. I think we’ve created that.”

Designing a Space That Feels Different

For Bea and Jo, creating Elara wasn’t just about building a clinic, it was about crafting an experience. Every inch of the space, from the softly curved archways to the glow of the treatment rooms, was designed with intention.

“We didn’t want it to feel clinical or intimidating,” says Jo. “It had to be bright and spacious, but still warm and inviting. The kind of space you walk into and instantly exhale.”

They worked closely with designers, debating over every texture, tile, and finish. “There were so many late-night discussions,” Bea adds. “Even the joinery! We made decisions not just for aesthetics, but functionality. Our rooms are practical from a therapist’s perspective. No unnecessary tapware or bulky cabinetry. Instead, everything is hidden behind soft curtains, so it feels calm and minimal.”

Together, they’ve created a hybrid sanctuary. Elegant in design yet grounded in purpose.

The Journey (and the Chaos) Behind the Calm

As serene as Elara feels now, the journey to opening was anything but.

“Construction delays were our biggest challenge,” says Bea. “Our fit-out was supposed to start in January, but it didn’t actually begin until May. Every few months we were pushed back further, and the financial stress was real. We’d already hired our team and started training, then suddenly had another three months to cover with no clinic to open.”

Jo nods. “It was a test of resilience. But we both went in knowing this was a huge project. One that would demand sacrifice, long nights, and no days off for a while.”

What kept them going was communication and trust. “We never take feedback personally,” Bea says. “When one of us was overwhelmed, the other would step up. That’s how we got through it. We talked through everything, even when we disagreed. We knew the only way this would work was if we were united.”

The experience, though challenging, strengthened their partnership. “We’ve come out the other side stronger both as friends and business partners,” says Jo. “And every time we walk through those doors now, it feels worth it.”

The Team That Brought Elara to Life

While the walls were still bare and the paint not yet dry, Elara’s team was already deep in training — months before opening day.

“I think what kept them motivated was that they felt part of something special,” Jo reflects. “We involved them in everything, from protocol development to choosing furnishings and tiles. Everyone had input, and that gave them a real sense of ownership.”

That connection paid off. “They are genuinely the best team I’ve ever had,” Jo continues. “Passionate, caring, self-motivated. They believe in the vision, and it shows in how they treat every client.”

Bea adds, “Our team’s loyalty was everything. They trusted us through the

uncertainty, and now they get to see what all that hard work built. We wouldn’t be here without them.”

Standing Out in a Competitive Market

Adelaide’s wellness and aesthetics scene is thriving, but also fiercely competitive. For Bea and Jo, standing out meant holding fast to a few non-negotiables.

“We knew we couldn’t just be another spa or clinic,” Bea says. “It had to be something truly unique. An environment that didn’t force clients to choose between relaxation and results.”

Jo agrees. “So many clinics lean one way or the other. We wanted both, advanced skin technology and indulgent care. That balance guided everything, from the layout to the brands we partnered with.”

Education was another cornerstone. “We made sure to choose partners that offered exceptional training and support,” Jo explains. “Because when our therapists grow, our client’s benefit.”

Equally important was investing in the team’s experience. “Happy staff create happy clients,” Bea adds. “We prioritised the details that enhance their workday such as thoughtful lighting, seamless room flow, and functional storage, knowing that when our team feels supported, it reflects in every client experience.”

Why pHformula Became a Non-Negotiable

When it came to skincare, Jo knew exactly what she wanted.

“I’d been following Danielle from pHformula for years,” she recalls. “Her Monday education sessions were incredible and when she brought the brand to Australia, I just knew it was going to be special.”

With its dermo-cosmetic fusion of pharmaceutical science and barrier-respecting care, pHformula aligned seamlessly with Elara’s results-driven philosophy . “It’s results-driven without compromising the barrier,” Jo explains. “And being in such a high-profile shopping centre, we knew clients would expect to walk out glowing, not peeling or hiding.”

For Jo, pHformula wasn’t just a product choice, it was a philosophy. “It was my one condition when Bea asked me to join her,” she laughs. “If we were doing this, we were doing it right.”

Since launching, the results have spoken for themselves. “Clients are obsessed,” says Bea. “The treatments deliver, the education is world-class, and it’s given us the flexibility to build a menu that truly caters to every skin concern.”

Jo smiles. “That’s what Elara is about, innovation, inclusivity, and results that respect the skin. We’re not afraid to do things differently. That’s how we stand out.”

Raising the Bar for Aesthetic Wellness in Adelaide

Elara isn’t just another medi-spa. It’s a reimagining of what aesthetics and wellness can look like when passion meets precision.

From its bold beginnings to its barrier-respecting treatments, Elara is a testament to two women who refused to play small and built something extraordinary instead. Learn more about pHformula at phformula.com.au.

How Clinics Can Maximise Bridal Season with Personalised Skin Journeys

Why Skin Needling and Smart Homecare Are Bridal Essentials

When I began my skin journey at Clinica Lase, micro-needling using SkinPen was the first treatment recommended. At first, the idea of tiny needles creating controlled microinjuries didn’t sound particularly bridal, but the results - smoother texture, a brighter glow, and improved product absorption, quickly changed my mind.

Crystal Patel, founder of Clinica Lase, explains why SkinPen earns its place in a bridal prep plan: “It’s a treatment that consistently delivers. It stimulates collagen, helps even out pigmentation, softens fine lines, and enhances the skin’s overall luminosity. Most importantly, it integrates seamlessly into a wider program without aggressive downtime.”

The Role of Products in Amplifying Results

The real secret, isn’t just the needling itself, it’s what you pair with it. Following my SkinPen sessions, my therapist Lauren prescribed a targeted routine of products designed to complement the treatment and amplify results.

• PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum to instantly hydrate and plump the skin post-needling.

• BIOJUVE Living Biome Essentials Duo to restore balance and improve skin health using living microbe technology.

• BIOJUVE Biome Support Complex to protect the skin barrier and enhance the long-term benefits of treatment.

Stephanie Mclean - Editor

What Brides Want to Know

From a marketing perspective, clinics that emphasise education over selling have an edge. Brides want to know why a treatment like SkinPen works, which products support it, and how it will realistically impact their skin without extended downtime. Sharing clear before-and-after results, treatment timelines, and even content showing how products are layered into the process helps build trust and transparency. Crystal agrees: “Brides don’t just want a package; they want to feel like their skin is understood. By showing them how something like SkinPen combined with the right active skincare will actually change their skin, you create a relationship based on trust rather than transactions.”

Learnings Other Clinics Can Apply

What this part of the journey highlights is that successful bridal marketing isn’t about promising a “miracle glow-up.” Instead, it’s about:

• Strategic planning – starting early enough (6–12 months out) to incorporate deeper corrective treatments like SkinPen before transitioning to gentler conditioning options closer to the day.

• Integration with homecare – reinforcing in-clinic results with evidence-based products such as PCA Skin Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum and BIOJUVE formulations, ensuring long-term improvements rather than short-term fixes.

By applying these actives post-needling, my skin was able to absorb them more effectively, making each session work harder while continuing the results at home.

“The synergy between the SkinPen treatment and high-performing products is everything,” Crystal notes. “It allows us to combine clinical precision with science-backed formulations, extending results beyond the clinic. For brides, this means every step of their skincare routine is moving them closer to their wedding-day goals.”

• Education over selling – positioning recommendations as tailored skin strategies rather than generic packages, helping brides understand why each step matters.

Building trust and loyalty – showing patients that their skin goals are achievable and realistic in the given timeframe fosters a relationship that often extends beyond the wedding.

Clinics that embrace this personalised, education-first model not only achieve superior outcomes but also position themselves as trusted partners in one of the most important skin journeys a client will ever take.

WRITTEN BY STEPHANIE MCLEAN, EDITOR

ALuxeGlo

Where Medical Precision Meets Luxury Wellness

fter more than 20 years in the aesthetics industry, registered cosmetic nurse Lei

Wu wanted to create something more personal. A space that blended the precision of medicine with the serenity of wellness. The result is LuxeGlo, a breathtaking riverside clinic in Perth that redefines the client experience through calm sophistication, advanced technology, and a philosophy rooted in empowerment.

“I wanted clients to feel cared for not just physically, but emotionally, from the moment they walk in to the moment they leave,” Lei shares. “Every decision, from our treatment menu to our brand philosophy, reflects my belief that beauty should feel empowering, not transactional.”

Having previously built and successfully run another aesthetics clinic, Lei saw LuxeGlo as an opportunity to bring together everything she had learned — about leadership, longevity, and the delicate balance between results and experience. The clinic, she says, is the culmination of years of lessons, vision, and passion for helping people look and feel their best.

A Two-Year Vision Realised

Bringing LuxeGlo to life was no small feat. The twoyear journey was one of patience, persistence, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From securing a prime riverfront location to designing 12 bespoke treatment rooms, every detail was meticulously considered.

“One defining moment was seeing the first render come to life. It was exactly how I had imagined it,” Lei recalls. “We faced countless delays, fit-out challenges, and sleepless nights, but each obstacle strengthened our resolve. When we finally opened, it wasn’t just the start of a business; it was the realisation of a vision two years in the making.”

The result is a space that feels both luxurious and deeply personal. One that speaks to Lei’s philosophy that aesthetics should nurture as much as they transform.

Design That Heals

For Lei, design is not just an aesthetic choice; it’s part of the healing process. She believes the environment plays a vital role in how clients feel, how staff perform, and how confidence is restored.

Every surface, tone, and texture within LuxeGlo was chosen to evoke calm and elegance. Soft gold accents, flowing layouts, and subtle lighting create an atmosphere that feels elevated yet comforting.

“Every texture, colour, and curve in LuxeGlo was chosen with intention,” Lei explains. “Our design tells our story before we even speak, that every detail matters.”

The space is a seamless fusion of beauty, science, and comfort. A sanctuary where modern medicine meets mindful luxury.

Innovation Through Partnership

Innovation sits at the heart of LuxeGlo’s offering. Its partnership with BTL Aesthetics, the global leaders behind EmFace, perfectly aligns with Lei’s forwardthinking approach.

“We’ve always focused on non-invasive, hightechnology treatments that deliver natural, lasting results,” Lei says. “BTL’s integrity, scientific innovation, and reputation made them the ideal partner.”

EmFace, which uses a combination of muscle stimulation and radiofrequency to lift and tone facial contours without needles or downtime, exemplifies the LuxeGlo ethos: intelligent beauty that enhances both structure and skin quality while empowering clients through comfort and results.

Beyond the Treatment Room

As LuxeGlo continues to evolve, Lei is expanding its focus into regenerative medicine and wellness, introducing exosome-based therapies, IV infusions, and body contouring technologies.

Future plans also include collaborations with luxury hotels, curated wellness retreats, and exclusive member events. All designed to extend the LuxeGlo experience beyond the clinic walls.

“Beyond treatments, LuxeGlo is becoming a lifestyle brand — one that celebrates confidence, balance, and authentic beauty,” Lei shares. “As we grow, our mission remains the same: to set a new benchmark for luxury aesthetics in Australia.”

With its blend of artful design, medical precision, and heartfelt philosophy, LuxeGlo stands as a shining example of what’s possible when science and soul meet under one roof.

FTargeting the Six Signs of Ageing

The Science Behind SkinCeuticals’ Advanced RGN-6

or decades, SkinCeuticals has defined results-driven, sciencebacked skincare. Now, the brand sets a new benchmark with Advanced RGN-6, a next-generation regenerating cream scientifically tested to visibly improve the six key signs of ageing: wrinkles, firmness, elasticity, discolouration, brightness, and smoothness.

We’ve all seen what happens as the skin matures: collagen and elastin decline, cellular turnover slows, and the moisture barrier weakens, resulting in a loss of firmness, uneven texture, and diminished radiance. Advanced RGN-6 was formulated to address these visible changes comprehensively, supporting the skin’s renewal process while strengthening and repairing the moisture barrier for smoother, more resilient skin.

Developed over five years of research, the formulation was designed with both clinical precision and everyday usability in mind, making it just as critical post-procedure as it is for long-term athome use. For practitioners, it’s a powerful recovery aid that helps reduce visible redness and discomfort after treatments such as laser or resurfacing. For patients, it’s an advanced daily corrective that strengthens, smooths, and brightens the complexion over time.

A New Benchmark in Skin Regeneration

At the core of Advanced RGN-6 lies a multi-active complex built to target multiple dimensions of skin ageing simultaneously.

• 10% Glycorepair: A nutrient-rich derivative of carob seeds that helps trigger moisture barrier renewal and refine skin texture.

• 3% Acetyl Tetrapeptide-9: A potent signal peptide that supports structural integrity for firmer, more resilient skin.

• 2% Ectoin: A powerful molecule that provides hydration and helps defend the skin against oxidative stress.

• 2% Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Visibly reduces discolouration and redness while reinforcing barrier function.

• 1% Eperuline: Extracted from Eperua Falcata bark, it offers visible soothing benefits to calm and balance the skin.

• 0.2% Bioceramide 603: A ceramide analogue that fortifies the barrier and supports a more even, radiant complexion.

Together, these ingredients act as a visible renewal system, improving texture, luminosity, and tone while leaving the skin calm, hydrated, and restored.

Technology That Works Like Skin

What truly differentiates Advanced RGN-6 is its lamellar emulsion technology, inspired by the skin’s own lipid structure. This innovation allows hydration and actives to be released gradually, keeping skin comfortable and balanced over time.

This delivery system also makes Advanced RGN-6 an ideal partner for professional treatments. Its composition supports barrier recovery, helping to visibly reduce redness and dryness, common concerns following procedures such as resurfacing or peels. The result: skin that looks smoother, feels stronger, and recovers more gracefully.

Behind this sophisticated formula lies a deep understanding of skin physiology and repair.

We asked Dr Tania Romano, Head of Medical and Education at SkinCeuticals, to share how Advanced RGN-6 came to life, and why it’s set to become a cornerstone in both professional and homecare routines.

Dr Tania Romano, Head of Medical and Education at SkinCeuticals

Inside the Science

What was the inspiration behind the creation of Advanced RGN-6?

Skin rejuvenation using lasers in cosmetic medicine is increasing in popularity within the aesthetic industry and was the main inspiration for the development of Advanced RGN-6. This innovative product was developed to visibly reverse six key signs of aging and skin tone damage by mimicking the skin’s natural rejuvenation processes that are stimulated by professional laser treatments. Advanced RGN-6 was developed over 5 years with collaboration across 20 scientists specialising in skin regeneration. The core idea was to understand how skin regenerates after procedures and to create a targeted formula that could strengthen, rejuvenate, and enhance visible skin health daily.

Can you share more about the science behind its formulation and what sets it apart from other barrier-repair creams?

Advanced RGN-6 is a physician-tested repair & anti-aging cream. This formula combines six bioactive ingredients to amplify 6 visible rejuvenation outcomes of skin repair, helping reduce visible redness, discoloration, and fine lines while promoting visible rejuvenation. This multi-faceted action, driven by the synergistic blend of active ingredients, allows it to deliver comprehensive antiaging and skin-perfecting benefits that extend far beyond those of a standard barrier repair creams. It’s designed to actively rejuvenate and improve the skin’s appearance at multiple levels.

SkinCeuticals Advanced RGN-6 aims to be both a shield and a catalyst, actively working to rebuild, rejuvenate, and visibly transform the skin’s texture, tone, and resilience.

Where do you see Advanced RGN-6 fitting into both professional and at-home skincare routines?

The dual functionality of Advanced RGN-6 is one of its key strengths. This cream can be integrated seamlessly into both professional treatments and as part of an at home skincare routine. In a professional clinic context, Advanced RGN-6 is a powerful tool for post-procedure care, helping rejuvenate the skin post-treatment for patients. At home, this product addresses multiple signs of aging and skin tone damage, and can be used twice daily in place of a moisturiser in your skincare routine.

The Future of Regenerative Skincare

With its advanced formulation, progressive testing, and barrier-strengthening technology, Advanced RGN-6 represents a new era in regenerative skincare. It offers practitioners and patients alike a professional-grade solution that promotes visible results, enhanced recovery, and long-term skin health.

Regenerative skincare is no longer limited to the treatment room,

In essence, while a good barrier cream acts like a protective shield,

Xytide Introduces A New Category To Aesthetics

Bringing Global Innovation to Australia

In a category evolving at unprecedented speed, Xytide has emerged as one of the most compelling forces in aesthetics. More than a distributor and far more than an exosome company, Xytide is reshaping how Australian and New Zealand clinicians access, understand, and integrate the next generation of medical technologies.

“We set out to be a specialist distributor that HCPs can trust to bring the latest innovative medical aesthetic products from around the world to local shores,” says Xytide CEO Troy Guthrie.

For decades, practitioners here have watched Europe and the United States adopt breakthrough technologies long before they reached Australian clinics. Xytide is challenging that cycle head-on, using strategic distribution to close the gap, ensuring local professionals are no longer years behind the global curve.

“We set out to be a specialist distributor that HCPs can trust to bring the latest innovative medical aesthetic products from around the world to local shores”

Driven by Science, Guided by Evidence

At the core of Xytide’s philosophy is a commitment to rigorous, science-led evaluation. Each technology is selected for its data, safety profile, and efficacy, not for trend appeal.

In a space where buzzwords can outpace clinical understanding, Xytide’s approach cuts through the noise.

“We don’t just look for what’s gaining momentum, we follow the science,” says Guthrie. “We use a very deliberate formula that considers clinical evidence, true innovation, and global shifts in the aesthetics landscape. With more than 30 years of combined industry experience, we’re able to identify technologies that aren’t just new, but truly meaningful”

This evidence-first mindset has helped the brand establish trust with clinicians seeking solutions that elevate treatment outcomes rather than simply expand their shelves.

Beyond Exosomes: A Broader Innovation Pipeline

Xytide made its mark by introducing Exomide, one of Australia’s first topical exosome products. A milestone that placed the brand at the centre of the innovation conversation. But exosomes are only the beginning.

Behind the scenes, Xytide is building a comprehensive, category-leading portfolio with the ambition of being the first distributor in Australia to offer a flagship solution across every major product category. By curating the high-quality innovations from around the world Xytide aims to give HCPs a single, trusted source they can rely on to stay at the forefront of global aesthetic science.

This is where Xytide’s true disruption lies. Not in a single category, but in its long-term vision for aesthetics as a whole.

Bio-Regeneration in 2026

The brand’s next major milestone arrives in February 2026 with the introduction of the bio-regeneration category into Australia.

Clinics across Australia have already shown strong interest, with many viewing bio-regeneration as the next step in the industry’s evolution toward long-term skin health..

“We already have a substantial waitlist of clinics wanting to be first in line,” says Guthrie. “There’s a real appetite for what’s coming, and we’re thrilled to be opening 2026 with a category that so many practitioners have been eagerly anticipating.

Xytide is stepping into a role far beyond that of a traditional distributor. The company is not just participating in the evolution, it’s helping drive it.

To learn more about their new products, connect with the Xytide team at xytide.com.au.

Xytide CEO Troy Guthrie

Success Made Beautifully Simple

Why Clinics Are Turning to InstantCosmetics

In the fast-paced world of aesthetic medicine, clinics need more than just great products—they need smart, flexible systems that support compliance, streamline operations, and empower practitioners to deliver exceptional care. That’s where InstantCosmetics comes in.

Backed by the strength and stability of Wesfarmers, InstantCosmetics is redefining how clinics operate. This all-in-one aesthetics-focused platform is purpose-built for doctors, nurses, and dentists working in cosmetic medicine. Whether you’re a solo injector or managing a multi-site clinic, InstantCosmetics offers a tailored solution that fits your workflow, your team, and your growth goals.

Flexibility That Works for You

No two clinics are the same—and InstantCosmetics understands that. With no subscription fees, no lock-ins, and no hidden charges, the platform gives clinics the freedom to choose only the services they need. From scripting and purchasing to inventory management and compliance audits, you can use the parts that work for you and leave the rest.

Whether you’re scripting for your patients, ordering wholesale products, or doing both, InstantCosmetics adapts to your clinic—not the other way around.

Built for Compliance, Backed by Experts

In an industry where regulations are constantly evolving, remaining compliant can feel like a full-time job. InstantCosmetics helps to make it easier. The platform includes advanced audit tools, six-monthly reviews, and scripting support that aligns with state-specific requirements— including the latest guidance from Queensland Health.

InstantCosmetics has developed a regulatory-ready framework that supports safe prescribing, documentation, and telehealth consultations. Clinics benefit from seven-day access to a medical scripting team, including after-hours consultations and dedicated 24/7 emergency medical support.

Excellence in Cosmetic Medicine

A commitment to excellence underpins every aspect of InstantCosmetics’ platform and service. Every prescribing doctor on the platform is an experienced injector, and both Dr Built, Medical Director and Dr Jonathan Hopkirk, Cosmetic Complications Director are seasoned professionals in cosmetic medicine. This ensures that every aspect of the platform—from scripting to complication management—is grounded in real-world expertise.

InstantCosmetics champions the belief that practitioners shouldn’t have to choose between running a successful business and staying compliant. The platform is designed to empower nurse-led and doctorled clinics with practical, compliant solutions.

Meet the Experts Behind the Excellence

At the heart of InstantCosmetics is a powerhouse team led by Charlie Abboud, Head of InstantCosmetics, and Justine Stewart-Crompton, National Key Account Manager. Charlie brings a wealth of experience spanning pharmaceutical sales, medical aesthetics, and business development—his strategic leadership is instrumental in shaping the business’ growth and innovation. Joining him is Justine, a seasoned professional with nearly two decades in medical aesthetics. Known for her forward-thinking approach and deep industry connections, Justine is driving strategic initiatives and enhancing partner relationships with insight and passion.

Competitive Pricing Through Strong Supplier Relationships

InstantCosmetics simplifies the business of sourcing high-quality injectables, skincare, devices, and consumables—all through one secure and competitively priced platform. Thanks to strong supplier relationships, clinics enjoy access to premium products and exclusive benefits.

Education, Support, and Growth

InstantCosmetics isn’t just a software provider—it’s a partner in your clinic’s success. The company offers access to leading training providers, with education options ranging from introductory courses to advanced masterclasses and events. A streamlined onboarding process means new users can access ordering and scripting functions within 24 to 48 hours.

And when you need help, InstantCosmetics’ dedicated and responsive support team are committed to helping clinics succeed. From onboarding to ongoing guidance, InstantCosmetics’ people are here to assist, nurture, and empower healthcare professionals every step of the way.

Designed for the Future of Aesthetic Practice

The InstantCosmetics platform was built with the unique needs of aesthetic professionals in mind. It’s not just functional—it’s forwardthinking. With tools for complication management, multi-indication treatment planning, and seamless patient journeys, it’s a platform designed to help your business thrive in a regulated and highly competitive market. Wherever your clinic is based in Australia, InstantCosmetics helps you stay ahead of the curve—so you can focus on what matters most: delivering outstanding results for your patients. Reach out today, and one of their experts will book a call to find the best solution for your clinic. Learn how InstantCosmetics can help you stay compliant, efficient, and focused on patient results—scan the QR code to connect with their experts.

A Night To Remember for Dermalogica

The brand’s Awards Night brought therapists, educators, and innovators together for an evening dedicated to recognition and renewal

On the eve of Beauty Expo Australia, over 200 therapists, brand partners, and industry guests gathered to celebrate the Dermalogica Awards Night. An evening that not only honoured excellence but redefined what connection looks like in the professional skincare space.

For Dolly Kaul, Head of Professional Channel & Customer Experience at Dermalogica Australia, the event represented something deeply personal.

“The idea behind the Dermalogica Awards Night was to create a moment of genuine recognition and celebration for our professional skin therapists. The people who represent the heart and soul of our brand,” she shares. “To see over 200 passionate professionals together in one room, sharing stories and reaffirming their purpose, was incredibly powerful.”

Recognition and connection proved to be the night’s recurring themes. From Phorest software, giving away a prize, to the Laseraid Machine Winner, Serenity at the Avenue in Queensland, to the many Gold and Platinum Partner clinics across Australia, each award symbolised more than achievement. It reflected dedication, education, and community.

“Our professional network is filled with therapists who invest countless hours in training, client care, and continuous improvement,” says Dolly. “These awards are our way of saying, we see you.”

The evening also featured an expert panel including Alex Zotos, Chiza Westcarr, Gay Wardle, Tamara Reid, and Trevor Neale, who shared insights spanning education, leadership, and the evolving client landscape.

“What stood out was the shared belief that the future of our industry lies in collaboration,” Dolly reflects. “Today’s consumers are more educated, curious, and results-driven than ever, which means professionals must combine technical skill with deep product and skin knowledge. That blend of science, education, and experience is what defines the modern skin therapist.”

Education has always been Dermalogica’s cornerstone, and four decades on, it remains at the forefront of the brand’s evolution. “We’ve moved from traditional classroom learning to dynamic, blended

education which includes online, in-person, and in-clinic,” Dolly explains. “We’re upskilling professionals around advanced modalities, ingredient technology, and business strategy, ensuring our network can grow confidently with the industry.”

A key highlight of 2025 was the launch of Dermalogica’s EXO Booster, a professional-only innovation powered by vegan lactobacillus exosome technology, the first of its kind. “It’s a breakthrough that supports skin regeneration and barrier health,” says Dolly. “What makes it uniquely Dermalogica is that we’ve taken advanced science and made it accessible, ethical, and safe within a professional treatment framework.”

This scientific-meets-clinical approach is also guiding Dermalogica’s growing presence in the aesthetic arena. Having exhibited at major conferences such as NSS, Fresh Life, and Cosmedicon, the brand is bridging traditional skincare and medical aesthetics in a way that speaks to today’s multidisciplinary practitioners.

“The aesthetic community is increasingly focused on skin quality, not just injectables or devices,” says Dolly. “We’re helping aesthetic professionals — nurses, dermal clinicians, and beyond — integrate high-performance skincare into their treatment protocols to deliver holistic, lasting results.”

Looking ahead, Dermalogica shows no signs of slowing down. Dolly confirms the Awards Night will return as an annual highlight for the brand’s professional network. “The response was overwhelming. It reaffirmed how important it is for our community to come together, celebrate, and feel inspired,” she says.

Beyond celebration, the brand is deepening its focus on business mentoring, advanced skin education, and collaborative growth opportunities for its partners. “We want every therapist and clinic owner to feel that Dermalogica is not just a brand they stock. It’s a partner that grows with them, champions them, and helps them thrive,” Dolly concludes.

In true Dermalogica style, the night wasn’t just an awards celebration. It was a powerful reminder of what’s always set the brand apart. Education, empowerment, and the people behind every glowing result.

Dolly Kaul

A new generation of peel treatment

Combining powerful exfoliation with intense hydration, Dermalogica’s new Plump Peel is a groundbreaking two-phase professional treatment that redefines resurfacing. Plump Peel leverages the latest in skin care science to deliver instant smoothness and deep radiance – without compromising skin comfort or integrity.

Plump Peel features an innovative two-step approach:

• Phase 1: Peel Balm, a rich balm infused with PHAs, AHAs, Retinol, and enzymes, gently yet effectively renews the skin.

• Phase 2: Plump Activator, an energising oil-in-water infusion, fizzes on contact, replenishing moisture and reawakening skin vitality. Designed for all skin tones and types, this dual-phase peel bridges the gap between chemical exfoliation and skin nourishment, offering powerful visible results with zero downtime. Whether integrated into advanced services like Dermalogica’s LuminFusion, as a preparation step for Microneedling or Dermaplaning, or offered as a skin service upgrade, Plump Peel transforms how clients experience skin renewal, both sensorially and visibly.

Key Benefits of Plump Peel:

• Gentle Resurfacing: Renews with PHAs, AHAs, Retinol, and enzymes while preserving skin’s natural integrity.

• Instant Plumpness: Fizzing activator hydrates and energises to visibly re-volumise skin.

• Radiant Glow: Enhances skin clarity and brightness in a single session.

• Comfort-Driven: Suitable for all skin tones with no discomfort or downtime.

• Customisable in Strength: Can be very gentle or advanced depending on the clients needs.

Plump Peel was developed with the purpose to give professionals a tool that delivers performance without compromise, and to provide clients with transformative results that feel as good as they look.

For more information, contact your local Dermalogica PRO representative, call us on 1800-659-118 or go to pro.dermalogica.com.au

Re-Introducing skinbetter science

As the landscape of medical-aesthetic skincare continues to evolve, the L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division is once again leading the way with the much-anticipated welcoming of skinbetter science to its ANZ portfolio. A biotech-driven brand that merges clinical precision with cutting-edge innovation.

Since its founding in 2016 by pharmaceutical professionals Jonah Shacknai, Justin Smith, and Seth Rodner, skinbetter science has rapidly emerged as one of the fastest-growing physician-dispensed skincare brands in the United States. Recognising its exceptional growth and science-driven innovation, the L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division acquired the brand in 2022 to further strengthen its medicalaesthetic skincare portfolio, joining an already established skincare icon, SkinCeuticals. From September 29, 2025, skinbetter science transitioned to direct distribution by L’Oréal in Australia and New Zealand, underscoring the group’s commitment to supporting scienceled, clinic-exclusive skincare for medical professionals.

A Biotech Approach to Skin Health skinbetter science’s formulations are the result of rigorous clinical testing delivering cutting-edge biotechnology. With 42 cosmeto-clinical studies, and 12 peer-reviewed publications, the brand takes a scientific approach to real-world skin concerns, from uneven tone and fine lines to hydration and increased resilience. Technology innovations such as InterFuse®, WEL®, PATH® and TAP® power targeted solutions for ageing, hyperpigmentation, and barrier support.

How SkinCeuticals and skinbetter science complement each other. Two brands, one shared philosophy. SkinCeuticals and skinbetter science together represent the evolution of medical aesthetic skincare innovation. SkinCeuticals is powered by the philosophy of Integrated Skincare – bridging in-clinic procedures with

advanced homecare to protect, maintain, and enhance results through potent antioxidants and barrier-supporting technologies. skinbetter science harnesses biotech innovation to address specific gaps in the market with simplified yet high-performance formulations that deliver measurable correction and rejuvenation. This partnership offers clinics the flexibility to design tailored, evidence-based regimens for every patient, from those beginning their skincare journey to those seeking advanced rejuvenation. Both brands share the same foundation of scientific integrity, peer-reviewed research, and global trust among the medical community.

Integration and Education

For clinics, skinbetter science offers a boutique range with maximum impact. A range that is simple to train, easy to prescribe, and supported by a robust education platform. Clinics can expect full access to inperson and online training, merchandising kits, sampling support, and a new Elite Partner Program launching in 2026.

“We are committed to protecting the medical integrity of skinbetter science and partnering with our clinics with enhanced training and business development support to ensure our clinics thrive,” says Louise Voyage, General Manager. “skinbetter science represents the next generation of professional skincare. Biotech driven, evidence-based, and focused on our medical channels to drive patients back into clinics.”

A New Era for Professional Medical Aesthetic Skincare

As the demand for physician-dispensed skincare continues to grow, skinbetter science is exclusively available in clinics and represents the L’Oréal Dermatological Beauty Division’s next leap forward –strengthening its commitment to innovation, integrity, and partnership within the medical-aesthetic community.

For clinic enquiries or to become a stockist of skinbetter science, contact the team at skinbetterscience@loreal.com.

“skinbetter science represents the next generation of professional skincare.” – Louise Voyage, General Manager, SkinCeuticals and skinbetter science

Inside SkinCareDoctor’s Rise as Australia’s Exclusive Medical Skincare Brand

Born from a shared passion for evidence-based skin health, SkinCareDoctor was created by husband-and-wife team Dr Charles McKibbin (owner of The Skin Doctor WA, Primary Care Dermatology Practice in Perth) and Sarah McKibbin (lead Dermal Therapist within the practice).

As a Dermatology GP and Dermal Therapist, the pair had long felt the limitations of existing professional skincare. “We found ourselves frustrated that no one range supplied everything we needed,” explains Sarah. “Many brands were discounting direct-to-consumer, eroding clinic trust, while others weren’t reformulating as science evolved. We wanted a solution that kept up with new research and kept integrity at its core.”

The result is SkinCareDoctor, a doctor and nurse exclusive, Australian-made brand available only through clinics with a registered medical professional. Every product is formulated with high-grade, skin-identical ingredients in precise dosages for visible results, without

the inflated costs of luxury marketing or unnecessary packaging. While entirely over-the-counter and non-prescription, the range has been formulated to medical standards, available exclusively through qualified clinics with registered medical professionals.

“What you and your patients pay for is in the bottle,” says Sarah. “It’s about high-quality, scientifically proven actives that deliver, not hype.”

Small-batch production allows each formula to evolve as new ingredients and evidence emerge. Since launching distribution in March last year, SkinCareDoctor has grown to over 50 medical partner clinics across Australia without advertising. Its success has spread organically through word of mouth among practitioners who value authenticity, science, and patient results.

Hear from some of the clinics that trust this dynamic duo and have teamed up as medical partners, helping to shape SkinCareDoctor into the growing brand it is today

New You – Bunbury & Busselton, WA

Doctor-Led Clinic | GP Obstetrician Dr Amanda Sabel | Surgical Training in Australia & London

When Dr Amanda Sabel met Sarah McKibbin at an industry dinner, she immediately recognised a kindred spirit. “Sarah’s passion for ingredients and science was infectious,” she recalls. “She spoke about skincare with the same integrity and enthusiasm I feel when I talk about medicine.”

Dr Sabel’s clinics, New You, focus on integrating cosmetic medicine with holistic patient care, a philosophy that SkinCareDoctor mirrored. “Our clients are educated. They want skincare that’s evidence-based, locally made, and fairly priced. The fact that it’s WA-made is especially meaningful. Our patients love supporting brands that represent their community.”

She adds that the partnership has strengthened patient loyalty. “When clients see that we’re investing in products developed by doctors and dermal professionals, it reinforces their confidence in our clinic. They trust that what we’re recommending is safe, science-led, and effective.”

Bramis – Western Australia

Multi-Award-Winning Clinic | Four Locations Across WA | Led by Dr Mela

With over three decades in aesthetic medicine, Dr Mela has seen countless skincare brands come and go. But she says SkinCareDoctor struck a rare balance between quality, clinical credibility, and accessibility.

“The high-grade ingredients, local formulation, and the price point are unbeatable,” she says. “It’s developed by professionals who live and breathe skin health, not marketers.”

Dr Mela was also drawn to the brand’s ethical model. “Knowing that SkinCareDoctor will only ever be stocked by clinics with a doctor or nurse ensures it remains in professional hands. It safeguards patient trust.”

For Bramis, a brand with multiple clinics and a commitment to results-driven, evidence-based care, the synergy was instant. “We’re passionate about achieving results without unnecessary luxury markups,” she adds. “SkinCareDoctor aligns perfectly with that, it’s medical-grade skincare with attainable luxury.”

“The high-grade ingredients, local formulation, and the price point are unbeatable”

Eden Aesthetics – Margaret River & Vasse, WA

Doctor-Led Clinic | Three-Time ABIA Best Clinic of the Year | Led by Dr Sarah Podmore

For Dr Sarah Podmore, owner of Eden Aesthetics, choosing skincare for her clinic isn’t about brand names, it’s about integrity.

“We were looking for a new range that was made in Australia and offered both professional and retail products,” she says. “What immediately stood out about SkinCareDoctor was its authenticity. Sarah and Charles have built something that feels deeply personal and purpose-driven.”

Dr Podmore explains that her rural patient base values simplicity and trust, qualities she found echoed in the SkinCareDoctor ethos. “Our patients have embraced it wholeheartedly. They appreciate that it’s easy to use, but they can also feel the potency of the actives. It’s skincare that works hard without overpromising.”

For a doctor-led clinic like Eden, aligning with another doctor-led brand was a natural fit. “It builds credibility,” she says. “We’re bound by stricter ethical codes, and having that same standard behind the products we recommend adds another layer of trust. It’s refreshing to partner with a brand that shares our medical integrity.”

W.D.I Clinic

– Western NSW

Aesthetic Clinic | Evidence-Based Skin Health Experts

Bringing advanced treatments directly to regional communities, W.D.I Clinic has built its reputation on accessibility, education, and results that speak for themselves. When exploring skincare partners, they were drawn to SkinCareDoctor for its shared focus on integrity, innovation, and practicality, values that align seamlessly with their philosophy.

“We were looking for a range that was uncomplicated, clinically credible, and effective across a variety of skin types,” explains the team. “SkinCareDoctor checked every box. It’s Australian-made, backed by medical expertise, and designed with formulations that are intelligent yet easy for clients to use consistently.”

Since introducing the range, the clinic has seen patients achieve clearer, stronger, and more balanced skin, particularly those managing acne, dehydration, and post-

treatment recovery. “What we love most is seeing how confident our clients become once they understand the ‘why’ behind the products,” they add. “The education component really empowers them to take ownership of their results.”

For a clinic built on mobility and connection, partnering with SkinCareDoctor has brought a new dimension of care. “It complements what we do perfectly, accessible, science-backed skincare that delivers wherever we go.”

Emergence – Narrabri, NSW

Rural Medical Aesthetics | Led by Registered Nurse Trudy Schatz

In the rural town of Narrabri, Emergence brings high-level skin health expertise to a community that often lacks access to advanced care. For RN Trudy Schatz, SkinCareDoctor offered exactly what she had been searching for, medical credibility, simplicity, and results.

“It stands out for its combination of medical-grade quality, transparency, and ease,” she explains. “There’s no gimmick or endless layering, just effective, scientifically backed formulas that make sense to both clinicians and clients.”

One story, in particular, stands out to Trudy. “A local client had battled redness and breakouts for years. She’d tried countless brands, often ordering online with little improvement. After we introduced her to a tailored SkinCareDoctor routine, she saw dramatic changes within weeks. She told me she finally felt confident attending community events without makeup and that’s huge for someone living rurally.”

For Trudy, that transformation goes beyond clear skin. “It’s about accessibility and empowerment. Rural clients deserve the same level of advanced care, and SkinCareDoctor makes that possible.”

A Growing Network of Trusted Medical Partners

With more than 50 medical clinics across Australia now stocking the range, SkinCareDoctor continues to gain momentum through reputation alone. This isn’t a brand following trends, it’s defining a new benchmark for medical skincare. For clinics, it represents more than a product line; it’s a reflection of shared values. A commitment to ethical practice, measurable outcomes, and skin health that evolves with science.

Ready to elevate your clinic’s skincare offering? Learn more about becoming a SkinCareDoctor medical partner at skincaredoctordirect.com.

Being A Woman in Medicine is Hard

Being a brown woman in medicine is harder

Ididn’t grow up wanting to be a doctor. I grew up wanting to fit in.

To belong in spaces that were not necessarily built for people like me.

My family migrated from Sri Lanka to Melbourne in 1990. I was four years old. A child who hadn’t yet completed kindergarten, missing home, adjusting to a new one that felt cold, foreign, and far away. Australia promised safety, opportunity, and education and in many ways, it delivered. But what I remember most from those early years isn’t just the change in climate or language. It was the weight of being different. I was the only brown girl in many classrooms, navigating culture, identity, and the invisible pressure to assimilate.

Medicine came into focus when I was 13. I dreamed of being a paediatrician. Not just because I loved children, but because I believed deeply in making a difference in people’s lives. Medical school was everything I hoped for – intellectually engaging and deeply rewarding. But once I entered the hospital system, the reality set in. Clinical placements were the first time I felt out of place. Not because of my skills or my knowledge, but because I was a woman.

While there’s been progress, many female doctors still experience gender-based bias, systemic inequity, and the ongoing need to prove their worth in a profession historically shaped by male norms. And for women of colour, the challenges are compounded. Despite holding an honours medical degree, I was –and occasionally still am – mistaken for anyone but the doctor. While these moments have thankfully become less frequent, they remain routine for many, reflecting a

broader systemic issue within the medical profession.

In my book, Brown. Female. Doctor. (Monash University Publishing), I wrote about how these experiences – the microaggressions, the misidentifications, the silencing –are not isolated incidents. They reflect a culture where masculinity is still seen as the default. Where women, or women of colour are often overlooked, undervalued, or expected to overperform just to be considered equal.

Being a woman of colour in medicine also means doing the job – and doing the extra, unpaid labour of justifying your place. It means absorbing slights in tea rooms. It means mentoring younger doctors of colour so they don’t feel as invisible as you once did. But it also means carrying deep resilience. It means building community. It means holding onto purpose.

In my book, I also share the internal tension of being a crosscultural kid. Growing up with one foot in Sri Lanka, the other in suburban Australia, always questioning where I truly belong. That identity work has shaped the doctor, mother, and woman I am today.

The responses to my story have been overwhelming. Women –doctors, students, mothers – have written to say thank you. For naming what they felt but couldn’t say. For telling a story that echoes their own. Because systems don’t change just because one of us makes it through. They change when we speak up. When we name what’s broken. When we lift others as we climb. I’m proud to be a doctor. But I’m even prouder to be a brown, female, Australian doctor, who honours, carries, and celebrates her culture.

Dr Sarah Arachchi, author of Brown. Female. Doctor

The New Reality for NurseLed Clinics in Queensland

Recent legislative changes in Queensland have reshaped the way nurse-led aesthetic clinics operate, particularly in relation to prescribing rights, advertising, and patient care. To understand the realworld impact of these changes, we spoke with Beauty Boost founder and registered nurse, Samara Searle, about how her clinic has adapted and what the future may look like for the nurse-led model.

How have the recent legislative changes in Queensland specifically impacted the way you operate your nurse-led clinic day to day?

“The biggest change for us has been the onboarding of a doctor who will practise in the clinic. Under the new laws, only our prescriber can order and hold stock of S4 medications, so we’ve moved to a doctor-on-site model where everything is under their control.

“That has changed the way we order, store, and track injectables, and it means we now work much more closely with our doctor on every aspect of patient care. We’ve also updated the way we script patients, adopting a new system that is much more thorough and compliant.

This has shifted our focus toward in-depth consultations and detailed treatment plans with the doctor, which ultimately benefits patients.”

The challenges and opportunities facing nurse-led clinics

conversations. We’ve always had years of expertise, but now patients are seeing that not everyone will benefit from the same treatment they saw on Instagram. A personalised consultation that focuses on what’s best for the individual’s anatomy always achieves better results.

“Our consultations are more thorough, and patients are leaving with a clearer understanding of risks, benefits, and realistic outcomes. That builds trust, even if it adds time. Some patients miss the ‘instant’ aspect, but ultimately they see us as a clinic that takes their care seriously — and that’s worth more long-term.”

From a business perspective, what kind of effect has the legislation had on growth, staffing, or future planning?

“There’s no denying it has added cost. Having the doctor on site is a bigger investment, and the new rules have also driven up medication prices and script fees. But it also means we avoid the delays of pharmacy-only dispensing, which actually makes the

“It’s changed how our team operates too. Our nurses remain central to care delivery, but our prescriber now plays a more hands-on role, and we’ve leaned into that by making them a visible part of our brand.

What have been the biggest challenges or adjustments you’ve had to make since the new rules came into effect?

“We’ve had to overhaul our advertising and the way we interact with patients online. We can no longer promote our primary treatments or share patient journeys, as they all fall under the new advertising laws. Instead, our website and socials now focus on education and practitioner expertise.

“Because of that, we’ve expanded our non-prescription-based treatment menu. It gives patients more options and also allows us to share more freely online without breaching the new regulations.”

How have these changes influenced your relationship with patients and their treatment journey?

“Although the laws make some aspects harder, they’ve highlighted the importance of consultation and professional assessment rather than a patient just coming in and saying, ‘I want more lips.’ We’ve made it a priority to explain the ‘why’ behind these changes, and most patients appreciate that it’s about safety and regulation catching up with the industry.

“In a positive way, the changes have opened the door to deeper

“In terms of growth, we’ve used this as an opportunity to expand our treatment menu with services not affected by the new laws. We’re also looking at introducing a new skincare range backed by strong clinical evidence and plan to invest in devices in the future. Our focus is on quality growth over speed, building a strong foundation for longterm success.”

Looking ahead, what do you think these changes mean for the broader nurse-led clinic model in Queensland, and possibly across Australia?

“I believe the doctor-on-site model will become the gold standard in Queensland. It’s the simplest way to stay compliant, and patients recognise it as the safest option.

“That said, it does raise the barrier to entry, and some smaller clinics may struggle with the costs. Sadly, we’ve already seen businesses announce their closure.

“Nationally, I think we’ll see other states follow Queensland’s lead with tighter rules and more prescriber involvement. Nurse-led clinics that adapt early and show strong governance will thrive. For us, it’s about embracing the changes and proving that a nurse-led clinic can be both warm and highly professional.”

Samara Searle

The Rise Of Cosmetic Confidence

Why Transparency Is Empowering Patients, with DR MARK KOHOUT, Specialist Plastic Surgeon

In recent months, the world has watched as high-profile figures like Kris Jenner and Kylie Jenner have openly discussed their cosmetic procedures. From facelifts to breast augmentation, their candour has sparked a wave of conversation about transparency in plastic surgery – and I couldn’t be more supportive of this shift.

For decades, aesthetic treatments were shrouded in secrecy. Patients often went to great lengths to disguise any enhancements, worried about being judged or misunderstood. But today, we are experiencing a cultural evolution where honesty about “tweakments” is not only accepted but celebrated.

As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative this transparency can be. When public figures own their choices, it gives everyday people permission to do the same. Rather than hiding behind whispers or rumours, patients are speaking openly about their experiences – and with that comes an enormous boost in confidence.

When someone chooses to undergo a procedure, it’s often deeply personal – tied to their self-image, emotional wellbeing, or a desire to reclaim confidence after life changes such as pregnancy or weight loss. Knowing that they no longer have to conceal their journey removes a huge emotional burden. It allows them to move forward proudly, rather than worrying about what others might think.

Twenty years ago, many patients would bring in magazine clippings of celebrities and whisper about their desired results, often saying, “But don’t tell anyone I did this.” Today, the conversation is different. Patients will walk into my practice and say, “I saw what Kylie Jenner shared about her experience, and it gave me the courage to do this for myself.”

This isn’t about imitation; it’s about validation. Seeing someone they admire confidently own their procedure reassures them that their choice is legitimate and worthy of discussion. The stigma is fading, replaced by a mindset of self-empowerment.

Honest conversations around cosmetic surgery also promote realistic expectations and better patient

Dr

Mark Kohout, Specialist Plastic

Surgeon

“When public figures own their choices, it gives everyday people permission to do the same.”

outcomes. When procedures are demystified, people understand what’s involved – from the decisionmaking process to the recovery period – and can make informed choices rather than being guided by unrealistic ideals or tabloid speculation.

Moreover, this openness contributes to a healthier body image culture. It reminds us that enhancements aren’t about chasing perfection but feeling like the best version of ourselves. Patients who share their stories often inspire others to explore treatments for the right reasons – to restore confidence, not to conform to someone else’s standard of beauty.

This cultural shift matters. The future of cosmetic surgery in Australia is one of authenticity. I believe we will continue to see more patients – public figures and everyday people alike – owning their decisions and sharing their journeys openly. This shift is more than a trend; it represents a new era where honesty and selfconfidence go hand in hand.

After all, the best results aren’t just visible in the mirror. They’re reflected in how confidently someone walks through the world, proud of who they are – and how they got there.

Rebound ‘Roid Rage’

Why It’s Time to Rethink Steroid Creams

Steroid creams have long been standard in managing eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis. Quick to calm inflammation, they’re often the first port of call for patients desperate to soothe angry flare-ups. Yet beneath the surface, a concerning pattern has emerged, known as the rebound phenomenon, where symptoms return more aggressively once treatment stops.

The rebound effect occurs when skin, conditioned by prolonged steroid use, becomes fragile. The barrier weakens, natural repair slows, and flare-ups intensify, locking patients into dependency. “Topical steroids have their place in acute treatment,” says Matthew Boyle, Managing Director of Honey Biotics. “But when used long-term, they can do more harm than good. Patients are left chasing temporary relief while compromising resilience.”

For many, this cycle creates both physical and emotional tolls. Thinning skin, sensitivity, and visible damage can be difficult to manage, especially for families treating children. In response, consumers and practitioners are seeking safer alternatives that support long-term health.

A Natural Remedy with Ancient Roots

Long before pharmaceuticals, cultures turned to honey as a therapeutic. Manuka honey, sourced from the Leptospermum scoparium bush in New Zealand, has earned global recognition for its medicinal benefits. Rich in methylglyoxal (MGO), a compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it is clinically shown to accelerate wound healing, restore barrier function, and balance the skin’s microbiome.

“Honey has always been a healer,” notes Matthew. “What sets UMF Manuka honey apart is its consistency and proven efficacy. It doesn’t just soothe irritation, it helps restore the foundation of skin health.”

Honey Biotics itself is rooted in this ingredient. In 2005, founder Lindsay Goulter, diagnosed with an antibiotic-resistant infection and facing amputation, turned to Manuka honey as a last resort. By applying it directly to the wound, he saved his leg, and inspired a brand built on nature’s healing power.

Science Meets Simplicity

Today, Honey Biotics carries that legacy forward with its TGA-listed Intense Moisturiser, a therapeutic-strength balm made in Australia. Free from steroids, fillers, and fragrance, the formula blends UMF Manuka honey with Vitamin E, Shea Nut Butter, Jojoba Oil, Beeswax, and Grape Seed Extract to calm flare-ups, reinforce the barrier, and deliver lasting hydration.

Backed by more than 500 verified five-star reviews, the Intense Moisturiser is a trusted alternative for families seeking steroid-free care. “We often hear from parents who feel stuck in the steroid cycle,” Matthew says. “What they value most is that it’s safe for everyday use, even on children, and provides real relief without the risks.”

Beyond Skin Deep

The brand’s mission extends beyond skin. Through its partnership with Heifer International, Honey Biotics donates a portion of every sale to bee conservation, funding hives, training, and sustainable farming initiatives.

For Matthew, the impact is twofold: “We’re here to care for people and for the planet. Supporting pollinators ensures not only our future ingredients but also the ecosystems that sustain us all.”

A Healthier Future

As awareness of the rebound phenomenon grows, so does demand for treatments that build resilience. Honey Biotics’ approach, grounded in science, inspired by nature, and driven by a true story of healing, offers patients an empowering alternative.

“The future of skin health lies in solutions that are both effective and sustainable,” says Matthew. “We believe the best medicine is one that works in harmony with the body, restoring balance instead of masking problems. That’s what Manuka honey does, and that’s what Honey Biotics stands for.”

Bamford Wellness Arrives in Australia

Australia’s spa and wellness landscape has just welcomed something very special, the country’s first Bamford Wellness Spa. Originally founded in the UK, Bamford is rooted in organic principles and botanical luxury, bringing with it a philosophy that wellness should be as natural, sustainable, and nurturing as it is restorative. My visit to experience the Bamford ritual and facial at this new sanctuary was nothing short of unforgettable.

The spa is housed within the newly developed 1 Hotel Melbourne, a property that feels more like a garden than a hotel. With over 7,000 living plants woven throughout the space, natural fibres and earthy tones, the atmosphere is at once refined and as it is grounded.

Stepping into the spa, the design shifts into an even deeper expression of calm. A Japanese-inspired fountain integrated into the reception desk immediately slows the pace, creating a gentle threshold between the outside world and the sanctuary within.

Bamford’s sustainable ethos is present in every detail, from five-minute eco-conscious showers to botanical touches that calm the senses. Beyond the treatment rooms, guests can access a 38-degree vitality spa, 27-degree swimming pool, steam room, and revitalising rain showers, each element designed to prepare body and mind for a truly immersive wellness journey.

I began my experience by immersing myself in the spa and sauna area. The vitality spa offered gentle jets that massaged my muscles - a welcome relief after a lingering cold had left my back and shoulders feeling tight. I moved between the warm spa, the pool, and the sauna, pausing under the refreshing rain shower in between. By the time my treatment was due, I was already deeply relaxed.

I was welcomed by Amanda, the Spa Manager, before being introduced to my therapist, Kara, who guided me into the signature Bamford Ritual. The experience began with a calming foot bath, infused with Bamford’s mineral-rich salts before moving onto a soothing back of body massage.

The massage itself was one of the most unforgettable treatments I’ve ever experienced. It opened with gentle acupressure down the back, melting tension in my rhomboids, traps, and the delicate point where neck meets shoulders. From there, the flow of the treatment followed a rhythm that felt both unique and deeply restorative. Kara worked one side of the body at a time, beginning at the sacrum and lower back, sweeping up around the shoulders, down the arms to the hands, and then returning to the lower back.

Each move carried purpose and the shoulder work was firm and deliberate, with a slight pause with pressure between strokes that allowed my muscles to truly release. My arms were gently repositioned to access the rotator muscles more deeply, while my legs were massaged and stretched, at one point, Kara lifted my foot toward the ceiling in a slow, restorative extension stretching the front body. The ritual concluded with the grounding warmth of hot stones, leaving me in a state of complete and blissful release.

The facial is a sensory experience where each step feels as indulgent as the last. Kara began with a double cleanse, the products so rich they felt more like nourishing masks. An exfoliating mask was paired with steam, while a massage using topoment-style techniques melted away jaw and forehead tension.

A crystal jade eye mask was placed during a second treatment mask, while Kara continued with a neck and décolleté massage. This element was a highlight, working into the tightness of my chest, knuckling through the shoulders, and soothing tired arms and hands. The treatment concluded with a gentle hot stone facial massage, the warmth melting into my skin and releasing any final traces of tension.

For me, the Bamford Ritual wasn’t just another treatment but an experience that honoured body, mind, and spirit in equal measure all within a space that feels homey.

From Brisbane to the World

KRISTY MORRIS on KAILO’s global expansion, groundbreaking partnerships, and redefining what wellness really means

In just seven years, KAILO has become one of Australia’s most recognisable names in wellness. Founded in 2018, the brand has redefined what a medispa can be, blending science-backed treatments with luxury, connection, and care. The accolades speak volumes. Australia’s #1 Wellness Brand of 2024 and Australia’s #1 Wellness Medispa for seven consecutive years. With a flagship medispa in Brisbane, the launch of KAILO Nutrition, a sold-out wellness summit in partnership with Gwyneth Paltrow’s brand goop, and exclusive partnerships with luxury houses like La Prairie, KAILO has firmly positioned itself on the global stage.

At the helm is founder and CEO Kristy Morris, a visionary entrepreneur who has turned a Brisbane-born business into a worldwide movement. As KAILO expands into the USA, UAE, Germany, and soon the UK, Kristy continues to push boundaries in what wellness means, not just for individuals, but for the industry as a whole.

As KAILO continues to expand its global footprint, Kristy reflects on the milestones that have shaped the brand, the philosophy driving its two-fold approach to care, and the exciting vision guiding its future.

KAILO was recently awarded Best Luxury Medispa Globally for 2025. What does this recognition mean to you and your team?

Since opening our doors in 2018, KAILO has been committed to delivering exceptional service and the latest in both medical and holistic wellness. Being recognised on the international stage for three consecutive years is a true testament to the dedication and expertise of our incredible team.

I’m both proud and humbled by this honour, and deeply grateful, not only for our passionate team, but also for the unwavering support of our loyal clients and the strong community we’ve built together.

What has it been like to balance maintaining your Brisbane home roots while leading a global wellness movement?

Balancing our Brisbane roots with leading a global wellness movement has been both grounding and incredibly rewarding. Being a Brisbaneborn, female-founded business is something I hold very close to my heart. I’m deeply proud of where we’ve come from, and when I travel abroad, that pride is only amplified.

It’s a privilege to represent our origins on the world stage and to share a piece of our story, our values, and our mission to empower wellness with a global audience.

This year has seen milestones like the sold-out wellness summit with Gwyneth Paltrow and the launch of La Prairie treatments. Which achievement feels like the biggest turning point for the brand so far?

Collaborating with goop was undoubtedly a pivotal moment in our journey, a true career highlight that helped elevate our brand globally.

That milestone gave us the credibility and opportunity to partner with La Prairie, introducing their highly sought-after Life Matrix facial and full range of scientifically backed skincare to our loyal KAILO following.

How do you feel KAILO’s two-fold method is shaping the future of Medispa?

At KAILO, we’re constantly evolving, guided by the needs of our guests and grounded in the latest research and science-backed modalities. The future of our industry is incredibly exciting, with a clear shift toward personalised, concierge-style medical and wellness offerings that are increasingly data-driven.

Our focus is on delivering transformative, bespoke experiences that are not only luxurious but also results-driven, supporting our clients in achieving lasting outcomes and ageing well.

What’s next for KAILO? What vision excites you most?

At KAILO, our passionate and highly motivated team remains deeply committed to delivering exceptional service and staying at the forefront of the wellness industry. We’re proud to be on an incredible journey of growth and innovation.

Our global expansion is well underway, with recent launches in the USA, UAE, and Germany, and the UK on the horizon. We’re also preparing to unveil an exciting new longevity and sports performance product designed to elevate wellbeing and performance outcomes.

Closer to home, we’re thrilled to be launching a brand-new KAILO concept in Q2 next year, right here in our beloved city of Brisbane. There’s so much more to come, and we can’t wait to share it with you.

KAILO’s founder and CEO Kristy Morris

The End of KOLs?

Why Brands Are Moving Beyond the Term

For years, the term Key Opinion Leader (KOL) has been the industry shorthand to describe those influential voices who bridge the gap between brands and consumers. Borrowed from pharmaceutical and medical marketing, the word carried with it a sense of authority and expertise.

But in 2025, we’re seeing a noticeable shift. Brands are quietly stepping away from the term KOL. Not because the role has disappeared, but because the terminology no longer reflects the full scope of talent these individuals bring to the table.

An anonymous industry source told Spa+Clinic: “KOL doesn’t encompass the full scope and talent of these individuals. We’re leaning in to referring to them as brand ambassadors or talent instead.”

In aesthetics and wellness, these “talent” partners are not just influencers in the traditional sense. They are dermatologists, cosmetic doctors, registered nurses, dermal clinicians, business owners, and spa therapists - professionals with years of hands-on expertise. Trusted by patients, respected by peers, and valued within the industry, they have the unique ability to translate science, evidence-based treatments and experience into language and experiences that truly resonate with consumers.

This subtle yet important distinction marks a larger cultural moment in beauty and aesthetics marketing. Consumers today are not simply looking for the “opinion” of a leader, they’re looking for authentic storytelling, relatable education, and content grounded in lived expertise. Brands are responding by reframing how they see the people who deliver this message, valuing them not only for their influence, but for their skill, credibility, and ability to inspire trust.

Why the Shift?

At its core, the move away from “KOL” reflects how brand–influencer relationships have matured. In the early 2010s, it was enough to have an authoritative figure endorsing a product. But now, brands want partnerships that go beyond thought leadership. They’re searching for multi-dimensional collaborators, individuals who can embody the brand’s ethos, create engaging digital content, speak at events, and in some cases, even co-develop products.

“Brand ambassador” or simply “talent” feels more holistic. It acknowledges that these individuals aren’t just lending their names to a product; they’re shaping culture, sparking conversations, and representing the values of a business.

Moving Past ‘Opinion’

The word “opinion” within KOL also feels limiting. Audiences today expect evidence-based insights, but they also want emotion, narrative, and shared values. The rise of patient influencers in aesthetics, wellness

creators on TikTok, and hybrid professionals who straddle medicine, beauty, and lifestyle demonstrates that being a “leader” is no longer about clinical authority alone. It’s about connection.

By shifting the language, brands signal that they see these individuals as more than opinion holders, they see them as strategic partners in brand building.

What This Means for Clinics and Brands

For aesthetic and wellness businesses, the old playbook of appointing a “KOL” to speak on behalf of your brand is starting to feel outdated. Instead, look for ambassadors who align with your story and can communicate it across multiple platforms. Consider how they can represent your clinic or product not only in digital campaigns, but also in the room with your clients, at industry events, or even behind the scenes in R&D.

This also means rethinking contracts, content briefs, and how partnerships are measured. The days of evaluating success solely on reach or engagement metrics are giving way to more meaningful measures such as conversion, brand trust, and long-term loyalty.

Choosing a Side

Another shift we’re seeing is around exclusivity. In the past, KOLs might have worked with multiple brands in the same category, sometimes simultaneously. But as the term “talent” takes hold, so too does the expectation of genuine alignment.

No global sportswear brand would share the same ambassador with a competitor; you won’t see Nike and Adidas relying on the same face to sell their shoes. The same principle is beginning to apply in aesthetics and beauty. Talent is increasingly expected to choose a side, aligning themselves closely with one brand’s philosophy, values, and products rather than spreading their influence thin across multiple competitors.

For brands, this means choosing partners who not only avoid competing interests but also align clearly with their goals and long-term vision. For talent, it’s about selecting brands they genuinely know, trust, and want to represent, building partnerships that feel authentic and sustainable, rather than transactional.

A New Era of Influence

While “KOL” might not disappear overnight, the terminology is waning. In its place, the industry is recognising a more dynamic, collaborative role: talent that informs, educates, and inspires, while standing firmly behind the brands they believe in.

For an industry built on transformation and innovation, perhaps it’s only natural that the language evolves too. After all, if influence itself has changed, the way we label those who hold it should change with it.

Beyond Skin Deep

Uniting 5,000 years of Ayurveda with modern precision, AyurScience redefines skincare as both treatment and ritual

The modern spa has become far more than a place of beauty treatments. It is now a wellness hub, where clients look for experiences that are sensory, mindful and results driven all at once. The best treatments go deeper than the surface, addressing the root cause of skin concerns while also providing a complete reset for the body and mind where products deliver visible results while the entire experience embodies authenticity and holistic care.

This is a space that AyurScience knows well. Developed in Australia by second generation pharmacists, Rajesh and Mitest Thakorlal, the brand draws on their family’s Ayurvedic heritage as well as their pharmacological training. Their vision is to merge ancestral wisdom with clinical integrity, creating skincare that offers measurable results while honouring holistic wellness.

A 5,000 year Foundation Refined for Today

Ayurveda, often described as the world’s oldest complete medical system, views health as a balance of mind, body and spirit. It teaches that visible skin issues often stem from deeper imbalances. AyurScience channels this philosophy through the AyurScience Research Institute, where traditional botanicals are refined by modern scientific processes.

At the heart of every formula is AyurActive™ Ingredient Comlex, a proprietary complex uniting two of Ayurveda’s most revered plants. Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry, is prized for its Vitamin C rich brightening power. Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil, is renowned for its calming and protective benefits. Together, they form a clinically validated herbal powerhouse that addresses concerns from blemishes and pigmentation to dullness and congestion.

Rituals with Results

For spas, AyurScience’s treatment masks are a compelling addition to menus and retail offerings. The CLARITY Energising Mask revitalises tired lacklustre skin and uneven tone. Alongside AyurActive™ it harnesses Sandalwood, Turmeric, Saffron and Gotu Kola to energise the complexion, smooth texture and restore radiance. Creamy and

non- drying, it elevates the weekly mask into a ritual of renewal. The PURITY Purifying Mask is tailored for oily, blemish prone and reactive skin. With AyurActive™, Turmeric and Bakuchiol, it helps reset congestion, soothe irritation and rebalance oil production, leaving skin clearer and calmer overnight.

Every formula is also infused with AyurScent, a custom essential oil blend created to transform treatments into sensory experiences. By engaging the senses, AyurScent enhances the emotional resonance of each ritual, allowing spa clients to feel as nourished in spirit as they are in skin.

Made for the Modern Spa

AyurScience is proudly Australian made to cosmetic GMP standards, with vegan and cruelty free formulas packaged in recyclable glass. This conscious approach aligns with the values of today’s wellness consumer, proving that sustainability, purity and performance can beautifully coexist.

For spa operators, the brand’s dual promise of clinical efficacy and holistic care offers a point of difference in a competitive market. Treatments deliver visible transformation, while rituals connect clients to something deeper, an ancient tradition brought forward with modern precision.

A future Shaped by Heritage and Science

For Rajesh and Mitesh Thakorlal, AyurScience is “something profoundly different”. It is a movement to bridge holistic healing with pharmaceutical integrity. By drawing on both their ancestral lineage and their pharmacological training, they have created a system that embodies wellness through wisdom. In a sector where client expectations continue to rise, AyurScience stands out as more than just skincare. It is a philosophy in practice, one that nurtures balance, inspires ritual and delivers results. For spas seeking to elevate both treatment outcomes and client experiences, AyurScience represents the next evolution in professional skincare.

Why Hustle Isn’t the Answer

The Sustainable Success Formula with KIRSTY SINCLAIR founder of Apoyo

Picture this: Phones ringing non-stop, inbox overflowing, clients booking, rescheduling, and rebooking again. A staff member calls in sick. You’re running on caffeine, adrenaline, and whatever baked good you can grab between appointments. Tired, wired, and there are still four weeks until Christmas.

day-to-day operations can help you see the bigger picture and make strategic decisions rather than reactive ones. Book this time in your diary and prioritise it.

Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Most clinic owners double down on hustle when the pressure mounts, thinking more effort will get them through. A startling 68% of small business owners believe hustle culture is necessary for growth. But here’s the truththe grind doesn’t grow your business, it just burns you out.

The Hidden Cost of Constant Hustle

Let’s address the elephant in the room. A 2024 PayPal study revealed that 91% of small business owners face work-related stress, citing sales pressure, time constraints, cashflow concerns, and insomnia as key factors. Even more concerning, 31% of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) owners identified mental health as an immediate concern, with 44% experiencing anxiety and 20% dealing with depression.

These aren’t just statistics, they represent real people running real businesses, just like you. But the truth is, pushing through isn’t the answer.

Five Strategies to Break the Hustle Cycle

1. Let go of the small tasks. If a team member can do it at 80% compared to your “perfect,” let them! That 20% difference rarely impacts client satisfaction but will significantly impact your energy levels.

2. Make time to think. Even two hours a week away from

3. Turn repetition into systems. If you’re answering the same question or repeating the same process more than once, document it and share it. Simple checklists, FAQ sheets, and standard operating procedures can save hours each week.

4. Protect your energy. Use your most energetic times of day for the work that matters most: Strategic planning, productive conversations, or creative problem-solving, rather than reacting and being pulled from pillar to post.

5. Build capacity, not dependency. Training your team and setting up simple processes and automations allows your clinic to serve more clients and grow revenue without everything relying solely on you. Your business should be able to run successfully even when you’re not physically present.

Making The Shift

Hard work absolutely has its place in building a successful business. But hustle without intention leads to burnout, staff turnover, and business stagnation. The most successful business owners understand that their greatest value comes not from doing more, but from creating the conditions where the right things get done efficiently and effectively. This busy season, resist the pull of the grind. Choose instead to lead with clarity and focus on the strategic moves that matter. Your future self and your team will thank you for it. Remember, a sustainable business isn’t built on your ability to work endless hours. It’s built on your ability to create systems that work, even when you’re not.

The Problem with Growth at All Costs

Leadership Coach Brad Giles explains How to Escape the Growth Trap

Over the past 25 years as an entrepreneur and coach to many owners, I’ve seen the same trap repeat itself. The business that was meant to deliver freedom begins to drain energy, add complexity, and pile on stress. Growth at all costs looks like progress, but it rarely delivers. When bigger becomes the only goal, it strips away the very freedom owners set out to build. It’s easy to see why. Growth feeds the ego. Revenue is a visible scoreboard, and size brings praise from bankers, peers, and the media. Owners also believe the myth that more revenue will buy them freedom, when in reality it often delivers more debt, more stress, and more complexity. Society constantly bombards you with the message that bigger is better. Stories of tech giants or the fastest-growing companies trigger the part of your brain that reveres size. Ego is your worst enemy. It clouds your judgement and pulls you toward bigger like a moth to a flame. As Alan Miltz reminds us, “Revenue is vanity, profit is sanity, and cash is king.” Chasing bigger is also easier than building better. It’s simple to say “let’s double revenue.” It’s much harder to improve discipline, strengthen culture, or deepen customer loyalty. And so the trap tightens: bigger feels easier, but it leaves owners stuck.

The problem with drift

building strength, you’re compounding weakness.

Jim Collins described this trap as the “undisciplined pursuit of more.” Owners push into new markets,

simply because they can. It feels exciting. It rarely compounds into lasting strength. I’ve seen many owners celebrate bigger numbers while quietly

When revenue doubles, things break

transaction. Reaction follows. More fixes. More noise. Drift grows. Growth is not the enemy. Growth is natural, and often essential. The problem is growth for growth’s sake. When revenue becomes the only scoreboard, owners lose sight of what really matters.

From better business to better life

Every business drifts. Left unmanaged, momentum moves in the wrong direction. Teams drift toward toxicity, customers drift toward indifference, offerings drift toward mediocrity and financials drift toward unprofitability. Growth without discipline only accelerates this drift. And this is why you must work on the business, not just in it. If you chase

The problem with growth at all costs is that it not only accelerates drift, but it also locks owners into the very cycle they set out to avoid. A better approach compounds improvements across team, customers, offerings, and financials, creating a business that fuels freedom rather than erodes it. Bigger doesn’t deliver the life you want - better does. Choosing better builds lasting strength, opens space for the freedom you imagined at the start, and gives you the capacity to focus on health, wealth, wisdom, happiness, and family.

Brad Giles, founder of Evolution Partners and one of Australia’s leading leadership team coaches, helps CEOs escape the growth-for-growth’s-sake trap to build stronger businesses and better lives.

Wellness in a Bottle

The Rise of Mindful Fragrance

Scent has always played a role in spa experiences, but its function is evolving. Fragrance is no longer just an olfactory finishing touch, it is becoming an intentional part of emotional care and nervous system regulation. At the intersection of beauty and wellbeing, a new category is emerging: mindful fragrance.

Within the niche fragrance world, distinct from the mainstream for its focus on artistry, storytelling, and a strong point of view rather than trends or mass appeal, this shift is especially clear. Niche fragrance is about crafting olfactory experiences with intention, often in small batches, using high-quality materials, and telling a story through scent. Recently, that artistry has evolved into a deeper connection with wellness. Scents designed not just to smell beautiful, but to evoke calm, focus, grounding, or joy. WA:IT, an Italian fragrance house inspired by Japanese rituals sits right at this intersection, part of an exciting movement, but also one of the brands leading it.

This approach sees scent not only as a luxury but as a ritual, one that supports mood, presence and connection. For therapists and spa owners, it opens new ways to layer emotional support into treatments and client routines.

A Fragrant Shift in Wellness

Mindful fragrance is about more than smelling good. It taps into the way scent can shift emotional states, calm the body and anchor us in the moment. These fragrances are created

“Mindful fragrance is a lowtouch but high-impact tool”

with natural-origin ingredients, blended with intention, and often aligned to specific moods or feelings.

WA:IT embodies this philosophy. Their collection of clean, conscious perfumes supports emotional wellness using high-quality botanicals and safe synthetics where needed to ensure skin compatibility and sustainability. To experience them is to step into a sensory landscape. Soft tendrils of fig and frangipani that feel like warm sunlight on skin; bright bursts of yuzu and sicilian citron like a breeze off the coast; the grounding embrace of cedarwood and vetiver that settles the mind as if rooted to the earth.

“We think of our scents as supplements for the soul,” says founder Raffaella Grisa. “Each one supports a different state of being, they are designed to guide people back to presence.”

Fragrance as Ritual in the Treatment Room

For spa professionals, these sensory moments offer real opportunity. A grounding mist before a massage, a calming spritz at the close of a facial, or a personalised fragrance pairing for yoga or meditation can enrich the treatment experience and gently shift the client’s inner state.

Therapists are increasingly seeking ways to support the nervous system and create sensory experiences that stay with clients long after they have left the room. Mindful fragrance is a low-touch but high-impact tool for doing exactly that.

It also works beautifully in retail. Clients are drawn to the emotional benefits and love continuing the ritual at home.

Notes with Benefits

Key fragrance notes and their known emotional effects include: Calming and Comforting

• Fig: Warm and soothing, creates contentment.

• Frangipani: Relieves stress and tension.

• Peony: Supports balance and reduces anxiety.

• Vanilla and Tonka Bean: Offer a nurturing effect. Uplifting and Energising

• Bergamot and Orange: Elevate mood and reduce anxiety.

• Yuzu and Sicilian Citron: Promote clarity and freshness.

• Black Pepper and Cinnamon: Stimulate and energise. Grounding and Balancing

• Cedarwood: Encourages strength and calm.

• Patchouli and Vetiver: Stabilise emotions and relax.

• Frankincense and Amber: Aid introspection and grounding. Therapists can tailor a scent to a treatment or allow clients to choose one that reflects how they want to feel.

The Future of Scent in Spa

As the spa space embraces holistic care, fragrance is proving to be a powerful ally. It enhances the sensory quality of treatments and bridges the spa-to-home connection through daily ritual.

Mindful fragrance is not just a trend, it reflects a broader movement toward slowing down, tuning in and making space for stillness.

Disrupting Wellness

Why $27.95 per week could change the future of

wellness culture in Australia

Wellness has long been marketed as a luxury. From elite athletes enjoying recovery lounges to spa-goers indulging in $100-plus sauna sessions, the benefits of heat, cold, and steam have often sat behind price barriers and exclusive walls. XtraClubs is rewriting that script. By combining operational discipline with smart design and technology, they’ve made memberships for sauna’s, ice bath’s, and steam experiences available from just $27.95 per week and in doing so, are disrupting the wellness industry at its core.

We sat down with Anthony Simonetta, co-founder of XtraClubs to unpack how they’ve achieved this balance of affordability and quality, and what it means for the future of sauna and plunge culture in Australia.

What operational choices help you keep memberships starting from $27.95 per week?

“We built affordability into our operating model from the start,” Anthony explains. “Our clubs are large-format and communal, with shared saunas, multiple ice baths, and a generous steam room. Members can come anytime, stay as long as they like, and enter via self-service technology. No reception means no bottlenecks and no overheads.

We also keep our focus sharp: sauna, ice bath, steam. Nothing else. That discipline lets us standardise operations, predict maintenance costs, and channel resources into reliability. We’re the first operator of our kind—big, communal, tech-enabled, and deliberately simple—so we can offer premium experiences at an everyday price.”

How do you balance affordability with premium touches like a handcrafted Finnish sauna?

“It comes down to intentional spending,” says Anthony. “We invest in what actually creates the ‘post-sauna elation’ of contrast therapy. Our handcrafted Finnish sauna, high-capacity steam rooms, and properly chilled ice baths.

hot, properly cold, consistently steamy. We use commercial-grade

“Sauna, ice, and steam are lowimpact and joint-friendly, which makes them perfect for older adults”

hardware, smart controls, and live monitoring to ensure reliability. Members feel the difference, and they get it for under $30 a week.”

Why was accessibility so important to you?

“Saunas changed my life,” Anthony shares. “Two years ago, I was 130kg, anxious, and burnt out. The sauna gave me clarity, calm, and the confidence to take better care of myself. That feeling shouldn’t be reserved for athletes or boutique spa-goers.

We built XtraClubs to remove the three big barriers: price, time, and intimidation. We’re open from 6am to 11pm every day, with unlimited access powered by our tech stack. And our spaces are welcoming and judgement-free, so anyone can take the first step and keep going.”

What makes XtraClubs especially appealing to older adults and busy professionals?

“Sauna, ice, and steam are low-impact and joint-friendly, which makes them perfect for older adults,” Anthony notes. “For professionals, it’s about time-smart flexibility, tap your phone, do a focused 20–40 minutes, and get on with your day.

And with memberships from $27.95 per week, people can visit often enough to actually feel the benefits. That affordability is what helps turn wellness into a real habit, not just a once-in-a-while indulgence.”

How do you see affordability shaping the future of sauna and plunge culture in Australia?

“The science continues to show one thing: frequent sauna use is where the real benefits unfold,” Anthony says. “But that only happens if access is affordable and consistent. We believe the future isn’t boutique $60 sessions, it’s habit-forming memberships that make regular sauna and plunge part of everyday life.

Our goal is simple: make wellness accessible, sustainable, and something everyone can integrate into their routine.”

Hybrid Lift: Future-Proofing Skin with Alma Hybrid™

Meeting the rising demand for regenerative laser treatments

Search interest for CO₂ laser treatments has surged by 54% in Australia over the past year, signalling a shift in what patients now expect – visible results, minimal downtime, and treatments backed by real science. For clinics, this presents both an opportunity and a challenge: how to offer the transformative results associated with CO₂ lasers while maintaining patient comfort and accessibility. Alma Hybrid™ and its signature Hybrid Lift™ protocol meet this challenge by combining advanced laser technologies with a regenerative approach to skin ageing.

Three Technologies, One Regenerative Outcome

Alma Hybrid uniquely combines:

• CO₂ (10,600 nm) – precise ablation to smooth texture and initiate a controlled wound-healing cascade that signals collagen renewal (Xu et al., 2011).

• 1570 nm Non-Ablative – deep dermal thermal stimulation to activate fibroblasts and elastin-producing pathways without surface disruption (Paasch & Said, 2020).

• IMPACT™ Ultrasound – drives topicals through CO₂-created microchannels to enhance delivery and increase bioavailability (Shenhav et al., 2023). Together, they create a layered skin response – resurfacing the epidermis, restructuring collagen and elastin in the dermis, and amplifying topical absorption for better clinical outcomes.

Skin Longevity:

The New Patient Priority

Aesthetic medicine is moving from “erase and repair” toward long-term skin resilience. Fractional CO₂ has been shown to trigger a heat-shock response (HSP70) within hours, priming skin to regenerate rather than scar (Xu et al., 2011; Paasch et al., 2010). When combined with the dermal stimulation of 1570 nm, Alma

Hybrid supports both immediate rejuvenation and deeper biological repair – aligning with the growing skin longevity movement.

Why Hybrid Lift™ Changes the Conversation

Hybrid Lift is a fully customisable rejuvenation protocol – not just a preset – allowing clinicians to switch between side-by-side, sequential or wavelength-prioritised modes and tailor energy, density and laser ratio to Fitzpatrick type, indication severity and downtime tolerance. Delivered as two to three moderate sessions rather than a single aggressive treatment, it achieves high-impact rejuvenation with reduced recovery and higher patient satisfaction (Shenhav et al., 2023). For more mature skin, sequential delivery – where CO₂ is fired first and 1570nm follows immediately after – has been shown to create deeper, more uniform coagulation zones while maintaining safety (Snast et al., 2021).

A Strategic Advantage for Clinics

By offering Alma Hybrid, clinics position themselves at the intersection of consumer demand and regenerative science. Patients no longer have to choose between efficacy and downtime – and clinics gain a differentiated, highvalue treatment pathway that builds trust, loyalty, and repeat bookings.

For full list of references, please reach out to us via alma-lasers.com.au

After - 4 weeks post 2 tx

The Alma Hybrid offers you complete control – adjust ratio, density, dual, and choose between dual, sequential or randomised lasing.

Topical applied post-treatment with fractional ablative CO 2

CO 2 Temperature

Gradient

Impact acts as a mechanical aid to enhance absorption of topicals.

IMind Over Matter

Redefining Recovery at Combined Clinics

njury repair and rehabilitation are rarely straightforward.

For many patients, the journey is as much a mental battle as it is a physical one. Setbacks, frustration, and the slow grind of progress can take their toll. At Combined Clinics, led by chiropractor Dr Cody, the philosophy is simple yet forward-thinking. True recovery doesn’t just treat the body, it also engages the mind.

Drawing on a background in chiropractic care, rehabilitation, and advanced medical technologies, Dr Cody has built a model of care that challenges convention. Where most clinics stop at manual adjustments, Combined Clinics goes further, integrating spinal decompression, high-intensity laser, and now Exomind; a breakthrough BTL device designed to strengthen the mind–body connection. Exomind works by engaging the nervous system to enhance focus, calmness, and emotional balance — creating a mental foundation that supports overall recovery and resilience.

This creates a truly synergistic approach, one that addresses not only pain and injury, but also resilience, mental clarity, and long-term strength. We sat down with Dr Cody to discuss how mindset shapes recovery, why Exomind is proving to be a game-changer, and what excites him most about the future of rehabilitation.

At Combined Clinics, you emphasise that recovery goes beyond the physical. How does the power of the mind influence your approach to injury repair and rehabilitation?

Recovery is never just about the physical tissue, it’s also about the brain’s role in perceiving, adapting, and healing. At Combined Clinics, we view the mind as an active participant in rehabilitation. When a patient believes in their capacity to recover, neural pathways are more responsive, and the body can integrate treatment more effectively. Stress, fear, or negative expectations can heighten pain perception and slow down healing, while optimism and engagement improve outcomes. This is why we combine advanced physical treatments with strategies that support mindset and focus. It’s not about “positive thinking” alone, it’s about leveraging the brain’s ability to reorganise, adapt, and enhance repair. That holistic perspective is what allows us to consistently see patients achieve beyond what they thought possible.

Exomind is designed to tap into the mind–body connection. In your experience, how important is mindset and mental state when it comes to successful recovery and repair?

Mindset is often the differentiator between two patients with the same diagnosis but very different outcomes. Exomind works at this intersection by using targeted brain stimulation to engage and modulate the nervous system, supporting adaptive neuroplasticity and active participation in the rehabilitation process. When patients enter a session calm, focused, and mentally resilient, their body responds with greater efficiency, muscles recruit more appropriately, neural firing patterns stabilise, and repair is accelerated. Exomind helps facilitate this state, reducing mental “noise” that can block recovery. In practice, I’ve seen patients progress faster not only because their physical treatment is enhanced, but because their mental state shifts from “injured” to “capable.” This psychological reframing, coupled with technologydriven interventions, creates a stronger foundation for long-term healing.

Dr Cody, Chiropractor

“True recovery doesn’t just treat the body, it also engages the mind.”

Beyond physical results, Exomind also promotes resilience, calmness, and focus1 How do you see these benefits supporting your patients on their rehab journey?

Rehabilitation is often a marathon, not a sprint. Many patients face frustration, setbacks, and the mental fatigue of slow progress. Exomind’s ability to promote calmness and focus provides a critical buffer against this fatigue. Patients who feel mentally centred are better able to commit to their care plans, manage discomfort, and remain consistent with exercises and follow-ups. Resilience is key. If a patient can approach challenges

with steadiness rather than stress, they are more likely to stay engaged through the ups and downs of recovery. The added focus also allows them to connect more deeply with their body during treatment, maximising the benefit of every adjustment, spinal decompression session, or laser application. These mental and emotional benefits don’t just make the journey easier; they directly influence better outcomes.

Combined Clinics is very different to a traditional chiropractic practice, with offerings like decompression therapy and now Exomind. How does this combination set you apart in the way you treat patients?

Most traditional chiropractic practices focus solely on manual adjustments. At Combined Clinics, we’ve redefined the model by integrating state-of-the-art rehabilitation technologies like Spinal Decompression, High Intensity Laser, Super Inductive System, and now Exomind. This combination allows us to go beyond symptom relief and target the root causes of dysfunction, whether mechanical, neurological, or psychological. For example, a patient with a disc bulge may benefit from decompression to reduce nerve pressure, laser to accelerate cellular repair, and Exomind to enhance neuroplasticity and

resilience. By layering these approaches, we create a synergistic effect that’s difficult to achieve with adjustments alone. Patients recognise this difference immediately: our clinic feels more like a cutting-edge wellness and performance centre than a typical chiropractic office. It’s this integrated approach that sets us apart and consistently delivers 7-star results.

Looking at the bigger picture, what excites you most about bringing your chiropractic and rehab expertise together with advanced technologies like BTL’s suite of devices?

What excites me most is the ability to truly transform what patients expect from rehabilitation. In the past, recovery was often framed as slow, painful, and uncertain. By combining chiropractic expertise with technologies like BTL’s Exomind, Super Inductive System, Spinal Decompression, High Intensity Laser, we’re rewriting that narrative. We can now accelerate repair, reduce recovery times, and support both the body and mind in ways that weren’t possible even a decade ago. It also allows us to personalise treatment to each patient’s unique presentation, from elite athletes to chronic pain sufferers, giving them access to the same calibre of care and innovation. For me, this isn’t just about fixing injuries; it’s about empowering people to return stronger, more resilient, and more confident than they were before. That future of integrated, technology-driven healthcare is what I’m most passionate about.

Resetting Recovery Expectations

At Combined Clinics, recovery is no longer a one-dimensional process. By embracing both the physical and psychological sides of healing, and leveraging advanced devices like Exomind, Dr Cody and his team are challenging what rehabilitation looks like in practice. For patients, this means faster progress, deeper resilience, and outcomes that extend far beyond pain relief. For the industry, it signals a shift toward holistic treatments that no longer stop at the body but also include the mind as a vital part of care. Learn more about Exomind with BTL at btlaesthetics.com.au / btlmed.com.au

Clinical references:

1. Dees M, Halaas Y, McCoy JD. ExoTMS™ Technology: A Novel Breakthrough in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Enhancing Mental Well-Being. Journal of Psychiatry and Psychiatric Disorders. 2025;9:245–254. DOI:10.26502/jppd.2572-519X0255.

Face by Alex Pike Opens in Toorak with Clinician-Led Skin Technology

When Alex Pike opened the doors to her new Toorak clinic, it marked more than the expansion of her aesthetic footprint—it reflected a career focused on clinical standards, client education, and careful adoption of technology. With a background that bridges professional modelling and two decades in clinical aesthetics, Alex has focused her practice on the principle that technology is applied responsibly and within professional guidance.

From Nursing to Leadership

Her pathway has been clinical from the beginning. Starting out as a Plastic Surgery nurse at Cabrini Hospital, Alex transitioned into injectables in 2004. She went on to spend four years with Plastic Surgeon Bryan Mendelson in Toorak, gaining insight into surgical and non-surgical facial practice. A year working alongside Dermatologist Dr Gordon Rennick followed, broadening her scope as a Cosmetic Nurse. In later years, she co-founded Delete Medical Laser, gaining experience with Fotona devices and contributing to laser-led service development. By 2018, she had opened her second clinic in Melbourne, balancing business leadership with a hands-on clinical role.

Introducing the Aerolase Neo Elite

During time in the United States, Alex first encountered the Aerolase Neo Elite, a medical laser included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG 389750) for supply in Australia. What stood out was the level of control over treatment parameters and the way energy delivery is provides specific energy-delivery settings that clinicians adjust according to individual skin characteristics. In clinician-led settings, the Aerolase Neo Elite is used by qualified health professionals in line with scope-of-practice guidelines and established clinical standards. Treatment parameters are practitionerselected and adjusted to suit all skin types, characteristics, and observed responses. Public-facing communications are limited to general information about intended use, with detailed clinical content made available to health professionals via gated sources. In cosmetic practice,

the device is used in cosmetic practice under practitioner guidance, in ways that align with regulatory requirements.

Compliance, Care, and Client Transparency

Clinics often prioritise devices that meet the requirement of being included on the ARTG before supply in Australia and that are intended for use by appropriately trained health professionals. These technologies are applied in ways that align with professional guidance and regulatory standards.

This approach flows into the client experience at Face by Alex Pike. Consultations emphasise transparency and education, setting realistic expectations and ensuring clients understand practitioner-selected parameters and aftercare. Treatment plans are clinician-led and developed to align with relevant professional standards.

The Toorak space brings together cosmetic services and clinician-led treatments within a framework that prioritises compliance, clear communication, and governance. By pairing advanced devices like the Aerolase Neo Elite with experienced practitioners, the clinic aims to keep treatments compliant and aligned with best-practice standards.

The Future of Nurse-Led Aesthetics

Looking ahead, Alex sees continued integration of advanced technologies into private clinics under appropriate governance. The industry is maturing: clients are better informed, clinicians are committed to transparency, and regulation is tighter—supporting longevity, quality, and professionalism in aesthetics.

Learn more about the Aerolase Neo Elite at beautytechnology.com.au

Important Information:

This article provides general information only and does not constitute medical advice. The Aerolase Neo Elite is included on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) for supply in Australia and is used by qualified health professionals in clinical environments. Cosmetic treatments vary in suitability and outcomes. Please consult a registered practitioner for personalised advice.

Alex Pike

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The Benefits of Microdosing Exosomes

How the EXO+ Priming Protocol prepares the skin for optimal regeneration and results.

In recent years, exosomes have emerged as one of the most talked-about innovations in regenerative aesthetics. Touted for their ability to support cellular communication in the skins, natural renewal process, helping calm the appearance of redness and support post treatment comfort and by supporting a refined and rejuvenated skin appearance over time, these nanovesicles are changing the way practitioners approach skin and scalp health. Their potential lies not just in rejuvenation, but in reshaping how regenerative aesthetics is delivered in everyday practice.

We sat down with Dr Elina Theodorakopoulou, MD, PhD, Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatologist specialising in Regenerative Aesthetics, to discuss how ASCE+ Exosomes, developed by ExoCoBio, are setting new standards for purity, efficacy, and clinical outcomes, and why her approach to microdosing exosomes could be a game-changer for both practitioners and patients.

Unlike many formulations on the market that rely on conditioned media, often containing a mixture of proteins, cytokines, and other cellular byproducts, ASCE+ features pure, isolated lyophilised exosomes derived from human adipose stem cells.

This is made possible through ExoSCRT™, a patented purification process that ensures 95% purity, producing exosomes with reliable composition, stability, and clinical performance.

“Consistency is key when we’re working with patients,” says Dr. Elina. “With ASCE+, we can trust that what we are delivering is reproducible, stable, and designed for results, not just a cocktail of unknown cellular remnants.”

Tailored Formulations for Precision Treatments

What sets ASCE+ apart is its range of targeted formulations, each developed with specific indications in mind:

SRLV – For skin rejuvenation, inflammation control, and pigmentation management

HRLV – For use in cosmetic scalp and hair revitalisation routines

IRLV – Supporting topical care in intimate wellness applications

ExoBalm – Designed for priming and post-treatment care

Home Care Range (coming soon!) – Bringing the power of exosomes into daily skincare routines

“These formulations allow us to integrate exosomes seamlessly into aesthetic medicine,” Dr Elina explains. “Whether it’s post-laser recovery, microneedling, or even LED therapy, ASCE+ is designed to complement post-procedure care and support visible skin improvement over time.”

The Art of Microdosing Exosomes

While many clinics are exploring exosomes as a one-off or high-dose treatment, Dr Elina takes a more nuanced approach: microdosing.

“Microdosing is about regular, consistent exposure to exosomes rather than flooding the skin or scalp in a single session,” she says. “This aligns with how cells naturally regenerate, incrementally, not all

By layering small amounts of ASCE+ over time, she has observed:

Improved skin resilience and barrier function

May improve the appearance of uneven skin tone with repeated use. Reduction in inflammation for sensitive or compromised skin

Used as part of a cosmetic protocol to support long-term skin quality.

“In many ways, it’s like building a skincare routine, only at a cellular level,” she adds.

Combining ASCE+ With Energy-Based Devices

One of the most compelling aspects of ASCE+ is how well it pairs with in-clinic technologies. Dr Elina often integrates the formulations with devices such as Morpheus8 RF microneedling, fractional lasers, and even LED therapies.

“These devices stimulate the skin. Using ASCE+ topically afterward may support the skin’s visible recovery and comfort during the posttreatment phase.”

For example, after Morpheus8, ASCE+ SRLV not only accelerates recovery but also enhances dermal remodelling, leading to smoother, firmer skin. For patients undergoing hair restoration, HRLV boosts the regenerative signals required for follicle activity and growth.

“The synergy between technology and biology is where the magic really happens,” Dr Elina notes.

The EXO+ Priming Protocol

Building on this philosophy, Dr. Elina has developed the EXO+ Priming Protocol, designed to prepare and condition the skin at a cellular level. By focusing on “skin bed reparation,” the protocol ensures patients’ skin becomes more receptive and resilient, better tolerating controlled injury from energy-based devices like Morpheus8, and achieving more robust regeneration and long-term results.

Key Benefits of EXO+ Microdosing: (When used as part of a topical cosmetic routine)

• Supports the skin’s natural appearance post-treatment

• Helps calm visible redness and promote skin comfort

• May assist in improving the appearance of uneven skin tone and texture

• Used to support visibly smoother, firmer-looking skin over time

• Aims to refresh dull or tired-looking skin for a radiant glow

• Designed to complement in-clinic procedures and support overall skin vitality

Dr Elina’s research-backed approach has shown that consistent cellular messaging reduces inflammation, pigmentation, and scarring. By priming with ExoBalm two to three weeks before Morpheus8, patients experience improved tolerance and stronger outcomes. Post-treatment application then supports the appearance of smoother, more refined skin over time supporting continuous regeneration.

“Whether we’re supporting the appearance of fine lines, pigmentation or overall skin resilience, the synergy of ExoBalm + ASCE SRLV exosomes + Morpheus8 RFMN represents the next evolution in patient outcomes,” she explains.

The Patient Experience

One of the key selling points of ASCE+ is its needle-free delivery. Unlike PRP or other regenerative injectables, exosomes can be applied topically following device treatments or in combination with

“Patients often respond well to the idea of topical, non-invasive

Dr.

Elina sums it up best:

InMode Gala Award Winners

Exosomes Best Results

Dr Jean Paul Chung – Odyssée Exosomes Best Combination Results

Lin Wu, Dr Kee-Seng Wong & Kelly Liu – BabySkin Laser & Cosmetic Clinic

• Exosomes Physician of the Year

Dr Paul Han – Dr Paul Han Surgery

Disclaimer: “Clinician recognition awarded by InMode based on internal assessments. Not reflective of individual patient outcomes. This content is not intended as a testimonial.”

care.” says Dr Elina. “They notice visible improvements in hydration, glow, and texture almost immediately, and long-term changes in firmness and pigmentation with repeated sessions.”

She emphasises that ASCE+ is not just about vanity, it also plays a significant role in skin health. “We’re supporting cellular balance and the goal is to support the appearance of calm, more resilient skin over time.”

The Promise of Home Care

With an at-home range in development, ASCE+ is poised to extend exosome therapy beyond the clinic.

“This will provide patients with a convenient way to continue their cosmetic routines at home between clinic visits”, Dr Elina predicts. “Patients will be able to maintain the benefits of their in-clinic treatments day-to-day, ensuring continuity and supporting visible skin quality between visits. It’s the next step in making cosmetic care more accessible.”

Exosomes as the Future of Regenerative Aesthetics

As the aesthetics industry continues to embrace biologics and regenerative technologies, ASCE+ Exosomes stand out as the most published and scientifically validated that raises the bar for purity and performance.

For practitioners, the ability to offer needle-free, versatile, and synergistic treatments opens up new possibilities for patient care. Practitioners have reported positive patient feedback in relation to comfort and satisfaction when ASCE+ is used in conjunction with energy-based treatments. Radiant, resilient skin, revitalised scalps, and a glimpse into the future of wellness-driven aesthetics.

Learn more about ASCE+ Exosomes via our code.

“We’re only scratching the surface of what exosomes can do. “ASCE+ supports the skin’s visible condition with a focus on hydration, balance, and post-treatment care.”

Dr Jean Paul Chung

Dr Paul Han

Lin Wu, Dr Kee-Seng Wong & Kelly Liu

How SPF Testing Might Change In Light Of The TGA Investigation

A closer look at the TGA’s sunscreen investigation, with Insights from DR NATASHA COOK and SIMKA Co-Founders.

Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world, with two in three Australians expected to be diagnosed in their lifetime, making sunscreen an essential public health tool. Yet a recent Choice investigation has highlighted that not all sunscreens are created equal.

While the consumer reaction has been dramatic, controversial, and at times noisy, the findings have reignited debate over whether the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) should take on in-house SPF testing.

In the past few weeks alone, over twenty well-known sunscreen products have been pulled from the market, including Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen, Naked Sundays’ SPF50+ Collagen Glow Mineral Sunscreen, and Endota’s Mineral Protect SPF50, after it was discovered that five of the seven relied on the same base formula.

The shake-up poses a critical question: is it fair to penalise brands trying to do the right thing when the current system itself may not be equitable?

The current model

At present, sunscreen manufacturers and distributors are responsible

for arranging their own SPF testing, often through accredited thirdparty laboratories. While this approach aligns with global norms, it has weaknesses. Variability in testing methods, reliance on overseas labs, and a lack of transparency can undermine consumer confidence. Cases of sunscreens failing to meet their labelled SPF have further fuelled concerns that oversight may not be strong enough.

Arguments for in-house testing

Advocates argue that in-house testing by the TGA would provide a consistent, centralised system. It would eliminate the risk of “lab shopping,” where brands might choose facilities that deliver favourable results, and ensure all sunscreens are subject to the same rigorous standards. For consumers, this could mean greater trust in SPF claims, and for the industry, a level playing field where compliance is non-negotiable.

Moreover, in-house testing would allow the TGA to quickly respond to public concerns. Rather than waiting for recalls or consumer complaints, the regulator could conduct random audits, spot-checks, or verification testing to ensure products on the shelves match what’s on the label.

The challenges

However, moving SPF testing in-house is not without hurdles. Building and staffing a dedicated laboratory capable of testing hundreds of sunscreen formulations each year would be costly. The process itself is resource-intensive, requiring controlled environments, specialist expertise, and volunteer human testing.

Critics argue that the TGA already faces resource constraints and adding this responsibility could delay approvals, stifle innovation, or increase costs for consumers.

There’s also the question of whether a regulator should act as both policymaker and testing body. Some experts believe oversight is best achieved through independent accredited labs, with the TGA enforcing strict auditing and transparency requirements rather than performing the tests itself.

A hybrid solution?

A middle ground could be a hybrid model. Under this system, the TGA would retain oversight but partner with accredited laboratories in Australia to perform testing. These labs could be subject to regular auditing, with the TGA conducting its own random verification testing to ensure results remain accurate. This model balances the need for consumer protection with practical considerations of cost and capacity.

Thoughts From A Dermatologist

We asked Board-certified Dermatologist (MBBS Hons FACD) Dr Natasha Cook for her thoughts on the matter.

“I believe the TGA should mandate that any sunscreen sold in Australia be approved in accredited Australian testing facilities, with results made publicly available. Creating a system that if problems do arise, they have immediate access to quality control, facility auditing and protects Australian consumers.

It’s always perplexed me why Australian-made sunscreens — both brands and manufacturers — would rely on overseas testing facilities…? Why send products abroad when Australia not only experiences the world’s highest UV levels and has one of the highest rates of skin cancer, but also has world-class local testing facilities?

Studies show Australians experience photoaging up to 20 years earlier than those in the Northern Hemisphere, highlighting the importance of having a local industry that is well regulated and providing SPF we all can rely on and trust.

This transparency takes the guesswork out of what overseas labs have been doing. Ultimately, Australian consumers deserve to trust what’s on the label — not to second-guess it.” – Dr Natasha Cook, Board-certified Dermatologist (MBBS Hons FACD)

In-vivo VS in-vitro testing

Reika Roberts and Simone Vescio, co-founders of skincare and supplement brand Simka, know all too well the efforts necessary that go with developing sunscreen, having recently launched a variety of SPF products.

“When developing SIMKA’s sunscreens, we experienced firsthand just how complex the testing and approval process can be in Australia. Every SIMKA SPF is a proprietary formulation, developed in collaboration with our chemists and manufactured locally – which means we have full oversight and

accountability at every stage of production. This level of control is critical for ensuring both efficacy and safety, particularly in a market as stringent as Australia’s.

The current TGA testing model relies on in-vivo testing, meaning results are based on human application. While this remains an important regulatory standard, it has inherent variability, results can differ between individuals and even between laboratories. The TGA’s recent decision to review this model and explore in-vitro (lab-based) methods is a positive step toward greater consistency and reliability.

From a brand perspective, an ideal testing model would combine the strengths of both methods – maintaining the real-world assurance of in-vivo testing while incorporating the reproducibility and precision of in-vitro validation. That’s exactly the hybrid approach SIMKA has adopted. All our sunscreens undergo in-vivo testing to meet TGA requirements, as well as in-vitro testing through accredited Australian laboratories to further substantiate the SPF rating under controlled conditions.

We also conduct annual re-testing of batches already in circulation. Regular testing of active ingredients ensures that each product continues to deliver a stable formulation for its full shelf life, a commitment that gives both clinics and consumers confidence in our brand.

Ultimately, it’s about building trust through transparency and education, so clients feel assured and supported in their daily sun protection.”

– Simone Vescio

and Reika Roberts, Co-Founders, SIMKA

A statement from the TGA

The TGA’s investigation is ongoing and is currently focused on a comprehensive review and analysis of the high volume of data received from sponsors. Given the complexity and scale of the material involved, this process will take time.

Variability in Sun Protection Factor (SPF) testing results associated with the ISO 24444:2019, Cosmetics Sun protection test methods – In vivo determination of the sun protection factor (SPF) is a known issue. This is due, in part, because it relies on human subjects and a visual estimation of individual skin responses.

The TGA is currently reviewing existing SPF testing requirements. In doing so, the TGA is exploring alternative test methods that may be more reliable, including in vitro test methods.

Through its risk-based approach to the regulation of therapeutic goods, the TGA will take regulatory action as appropriate. For more information on this approach to regulation, please refer to the TGA’s Compliance Management page on its website.

Given Australia’s high incidence of skin cancer, the TGA reiterates that using sunscreen is an important measure to prevent the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation. This should be combined with seeking shade, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, wearing protective clothing and using sunglasses.

The way forward

Ultimately, the goal is Australians must be able to trust that the SPF number on a bottle of sunscreen reflects the protection they’re paying for. Whether through in-house testing, a hybrid approach, or tighter auditing of third-party labs, the TGA’s role is critical in safeguarding public confidence.

As the conversation continues, sunscreen has been pushed back into the spotlight not as a simple skincare product, but as a frontline defence in Australia’s fight against skin cancer.

Precision, Power, and Progress

Inside DEKA’s Next-Generation TORO

When Italian engineering meets technological insight, innovation is inevitable, and DEKA’s new TORO laser is proof of that. Designed to deliver high-performance results with greater efficiency, flexibility and safety, TORO represents a new chapter in DEKA’s legacy of precision-engineered technology.

According to Matt Moncrieff, Managing Director at High Tech Medical, TORO was developed to address a clear gap in the market. “There is significant demand for a short-pulsed laser that offers most of the clinical capabilities of a traditional pico laser, but with reduced running costs, a smaller footprint, and a lower price point,” he explains. “It’s clear that when DEKA designed the TORO, they had these criteria in mind while also ensuring that it could deliver meaningful results across a broad range of clinical applications.”

Versatility at Every Pulse

At the heart of TORO’s design is its hybrid pulse technology. Combining nano and pico pulses, and with three wavelengths, this dual capability allows practitioners to treat a wider range of indications with greater precision and control.

“In the case of the TORO, it’s all about versatility at an attractive price point for this type of laser,” says Moncrieff. “The three wavelengths mean the TORO can be used for a wide range of indications on almost all skin types. The added bonus of having the 785nm wavelength in picosecond pulses adds a range of other options when it comes to tailoring the settings to best suit the needs of each patient.”

This flexibility translates to more treatment opportunities for clinics. From pigment and tattoo removal to rejuvenation, acne scarring, melasma and photo facials without compromising on safety or outcomes.

A Game-Changer for Darker Skin Types

The inclusion of the 785nm wavelength in picosecond mode is one of TORO’s most notable advancements. “The combination of picosecond pulses at 785nm is recognised as a sweet spot for clinical effectiveness with reduced side effects, even for difficult indications such as melasma,” explains Moncrieff. “By adding this feature, DEKA significantly increases the range of clinical indications while reducing the potential for side effects such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.”

This makes TORO a must-have solution for practitioners treating diverse skin tones, an increasingly important consideration in modern aesthetics.

Designed for Simplicity and Precision

Beyond its advanced laser technology, TORO’s design reflects DEKA’s deep understanding of workflow and usability. “Once again, it’s about versatility,” says Moncrieff. “The TORO has a wide range of handpieces — including homogeneous square spots for even

coverage, a full range of round spot sizes with an adjustable Zoom handpiece, two fractional handpieces for scarring, rejuvenation and melasma, and a DekaPeel handpiece for no-downtime photo facials.”

This interchangeable system allows clinics to seamlessly move between treatments, optimising both patient outcomes and practitioner efficiency.

Built on Four Decades of Innovation

DEKA’s reputation for excellence in medical and aesthetic device design spans more than 40 years. From its headquarters in Florence, Italy, the company continues to lead the way in engineering technologies that empower practitioners.

“At its heart, DEKA is an engineering company,” Moncrieff says. “They’ve been designing and manufacturing world-class devices for aesthetic and surgical medicine for more than four decades. TORO embodies that heritage — combining advanced technology with reliability, ease of use and cost-effectiveness.”

Early feedback from practitioners reflects this. “The response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Moncrieff notes. “Clinics love that it’s easy to use, powerful and intuitive — a laser that feels just as good to operate as it performs.”

The Future of Smart Laser Technology

As Australia’s and New Zealand’s aesthetics industry continues to evolve, devices like TORO set the benchmark for what’s next. Intelligent, adaptable technology that delivers real results without unnecessary complexity.

“With its three wavelengths, pico and nanosecond pulses, multiple handpieces and user-friendly interface, TORO is a platform designed to grow with the clinic,” says Moncrieff. “It’s a reflection of DEKA’s ongoing commitment to innovation — creating devices that make highlevel care more accessible, safe and efficient.”

INTRODUCING

Exosomatic Break-Though Technology

A powerhouse infusion of next-generation actives designed to restore balance, resilience, and youthful radiance.

KEY ACTIVES

Exosomes

Intelligent cell communicators that support skin regeneration.

Adaptogens

Plant-derived stress-resistance boosters that enhance skin resilience and balance.

Adenosine

A multifunctional bioactive that helps smooth, energize, and calm the skin.

Glutathione

The body’s master antioxidant, brightening and defending against oxidative stress.

Amino Acids

Fundamental building blocks that nourish and sustain healthy skin metabolism.

Is This The Rise Of Psychodermatology?

A new skincare line explores how the “love hormone” could influence skin health through neurochemical pathways

The next frontier in skincare may lie not in peptides or retinoids, but in a hormone better known for its role in emotional connection. OX Factor, a new skincare line developed by facial plastic surgeon Dr Steven Dayan and dermatologist Dr Sabrina Fabi, is harnessing the science of oxytocin, the neuropeptide often called the “love hormone”, to blur the line between cosmetic and emotional medicine.

The idea is rooted in psychodermatology, a growing discipline exploring the relationship between psychological states and skin function. Stress, social interaction, and emotional well-being are all known to affect skin through biochemical signalling. Oxytocin, produced in the brain and locally in the skin, plays a central role in this communication network.

What the evidence claims

Studies have shown that keratinocytes (the cells forming the outermost layer of the skin) can produce oxytocin, while fibroblasts in the dermis express oxytocin receptors. When activated, these receptors can influence inflammation, wound healing, and collagen activity.

Building on these findings, OX Factor’s formulations aim to mimic or enhance oxytocin-like signalling at the skin level. By doing so, the

products are designed not just to improve texture and tone but to promote a sense of calm and comfort through biochemical feedback between the skin and brain. Dr Dayan describes the result as “a hug for your skin,” suggesting that emotional benefits can complement visible results.

Early research supports this integrative concept. Studies have indicated that oxytocin may suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines and reduce the effects of cellular stress, both contributors to premature ageing. Some data even links higher oxytocin activity to improved skin barrier function and enhanced elasticity. While more clinical trials are needed to confirm these effects topically, the biological rationale is compelling: oxytocin may act as both a neuromodulator and an anti-inflammatory agent within the skin’s microenvironment.

The road ahead

From a consumer perspective, this shift marks a move toward emotionally intelligent skincare formulations that engage both physiology and psychology. The OX Factor line includes serums and creams with textures designed to evoke warmth and relaxation, while the underlying actives work to reinforce the skin’s resilience.

WRITTEN BY FORMER ONLINE EDITOR, TANEESA WILLIAMSON

The Legacy, The Educator, The Innovator

A four-decade career defined by purpose, passion, and progress

Few names in aesthetics carry the same quiet influence as Nuala Briggs, owner of NBSkin. With over 40 years immersed in the science and artistry of skin, her career has been defined by curiosity, integrity, and a steadfast belief in education. From her early days in the UK to establishing her clinic in Western Australia a decade ago, Nuala has championed an approach to aesthetics that balances innovation with empathy and results with responsibility.

“When I first arrived in Australia, I noticed a very different approach to equipment purchasing,” she recalls. “Especially in WA, where we can sometimes be a little overlooked, there’s a slower uptake of new technology. I’ve always believed that research, safety, and a deep understanding of the science must come before any decision. That’s how you build trust, both with your clients and within the industry.”

Driven by Curiosity

decision clear. “For me, safety and science always come first. I trust the research behind Sofwave™, and I feel fully supported by Cryomed. That reassurance is so important when investing in technology at this level.”

Where Science Meets Empathy

That thoughtful, evidence-based mindset has guided Nuala through every era of her career. And while the tools have evolved, her enthusiasm for what’s possible has never waned.

“It’s the constant change that keeps me excited,” she says. “Each year brings new technology, new ways to enhance skin health, and new opportunities to refine our treatments. I still love what I do and that joy flows into how I make my clients feel. Education, lifestyle, nutrition, and treatment; they all connect. That’s where true results begin.”

A New Era with Sofwave™

It was this same commitment to progress that led Nuala to introduce Sofwave™ into her clinic, a non-invasive ultrasound device designed to lift, firm, and rejuvenate without compromising skin integrity. In fact, her clinic was the first in Western Australia to bring Sofwave™ to patients, marking yet another milestone in her long-standing dedication to innovation.

“I was intrigued from the start,” she says. “Sofwave™ was different, not just another ‘me-too’ technology. It made sense scientifically. The precision of its patented technology, and the way it stimulates both collagen I and III for natural volumisation, just felt like the next logical step for my clinic.”

Before bringing the device to her clients, Nuala experienced the treatment herself. “Although my skin was in good condition, I had started to notice changes around my nasolabial folds and jawline. I’d tried other devices, but none delivered that real lift I wanted. After Sofwave™, the results spoke for themselves. I thought, ‘If I need this, my clients will too.’”

That personal conviction, reinforced by medical reviews and global adoption among dermatologists and plastic surgeons, made the

In an industry that’s often defined by innovation, Nuala believes the real magic lies in human connection. “If you remove empathy from aesthetics, you have nothing,” she says simply. “Caring for people must come before everything else. When safety, science, and compassion align, that’s when a clinic truly shines.”

It’s an ethos that extends to how she leads, mentors, and educates.

Over the years, Nuala has trained and inspired countless practitioners to think critically, work safely, and approach every treatment with care.

“I always encourage therapists to pursue training and attend conferences,” she says. “That’s where inspiration happens. We should never stop learning, that’s how we raise the standard for everyone.”

Beyond the Horizon

When it comes to the future of aesthetics, Nuala’s optimism is infectious. “I often hear people say that technology has peaked, but I don’t believe that. In the 1980s, I was using a single LED probe. Now we have full-body LED beds with thousands of diodes. Innovation never stops. One day, I believe we’ll have technologies built into our environments, perhaps even our beds, that rejuvenate our skin, muscles, and wellbeing overnight.”

And while that future sounds almost futuristic, Nuala’s guiding principles remain deeply human. “No matter how advanced technology becomes, empathy and understanding will always define good aesthetics. That balance, between science and soul, is what keeps me passionate after all these years.”

To learn more about Sofwave™ and how it can transform your clinic’s treatment offering, visit cryomed.com.au or contact Cryomed Aesthetics for more information.

‘Tis the Season to Glow

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The Summer Staples

The go-to edit for targeting pigment, sun damage, and dehydration

From left to right: Three Warriors, Exfoliating Tasmanian Sand Scrub, RRP $ 29.95 threewarriors.com.au

O Cosmedics, Mineral Pro SPF 50+, RRP $66.00 ocosmedics.com

Glow Culture, SUPER BOOST 3-IN-1 MICRODERM FACIAL, RRP $45.00 glowcultureco.com.au

iS Clinical, Brightening Serum, RRP: $235.00 isclinical.com.au

INSKIN.CO, Vitamin C Serum, RRP $55.00 inskinco.com

Eminence, Charcoal & Black Seed Clay Masque, $144.00 eminenceorganics.com.au

Ella Bache, Eternal Reconstructing Very Rich Cream, RRP $166.00 ellabache.com.au

Societe, Refinishing Plus Complex, RRP $159.00 advancedskin.com.au

Dermaviduals, Peeling Cream, RRP $109.00 dermaviduals.com.au

Environ Skin Care, Hydrating Clay Masque, RRP $70.00 environskincareaustralia.com.au

Skincare Doctor, BB Cream, RRP $99.50 skincaredoctordirect.com

ZO Skin Health, Skin Brightening Sheet Mask, RRP $15.00 zoskinhealth.com.au

Aspect Dr, Complete Pigment Plus, RRP $169.00 aspectskincare.com.au/aspect/dr

Environ, Malachite-NP Complex Seriénce Night Serum, RRP $170.00 environskincareaustralia.com.au

Saint Louve, Clarity Crème, RRP $169.95 saintlouve.com.au

Mesoestetic, mesoprotech® hydra cream SPF 50+, RRP $76.50 mesoestetic.com.au

Cosmedix, Clear Deep Cleansing Mask, RRP $47.00 cosmedix.com

K-Beauty’s Iconic Skin Treatment

for Aesthetic Professionals

The Cult Peel That’s Changing Skin Game

Already a favourite in progressive clinics, LHALA Peel & Fill delivers the coveted glass skin glow without a single device. Powered by Lipohydroxy Acid (LHA) for gentle, precise exfoliation, it smooths texture, refines pores, and restores radiance—in just one treatment.

• Perfect for all skin types

• Fast, no-downtime results

• High rebooking rates

• Excellent profitability

Power Up Your Results

Boost outcomes with same-day combination treatments:

• LHALA Peel + Rejuran

• LHALA Peel + Pico or IPL Lasers

• LHALA Peel + Injectable Treatments

• LHALA Peel + HIFU

Create your account here and add K-Beauty’s cult favourites to your clinic.

An in-clinic treatment experience created exclusively with the Rejuran® Professional Line — a comprehensive range built on a PDRN-led formulation, derived from wild salmon DNA fragments, designed to support visibly smoother, hydrated and revitalised-looking skin. Available exclusively through professional aesthetic clinics.

rejuran.com.au @rejuran.anz