Beauty Biz Year 17 Issue 4 by mochagroup

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EDITOR’S

NOTE.

PUBLISHER

Linda Woodhead linda@mochagroup.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER

Jarred Stedman jarred@mochagroup.com.au

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Louise May louise@mochagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Nina Barbara nina@mochagroup.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Kellie Woodhead kellie@mochagroup.com.au

ADMINISTRATION

Jess Richmond jess@mochagroup.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise May

Dr Giulia D’Anna

Isabella Loneragan

Gay Wardle

James Vivian

Alanna Douglas

Daniela Boerma

Will Fennell

Nicola Le Lievre

Rachel Vella

Michael Q. Pugliese

Digital Health Co

Robyn McAlpine

Elle Wilson

Rebecca Miller

Chrissy Alger

Faye Murray

Jay Chapman

Rachel Medlock

Sarah Garner

Kayla Zigic

Angeli Maria Shaw

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PO BOX 252 Helensvale Plaza Qld 4212 P: 07 5580 5155

mail@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au

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Dear Beauty Biz Readers,

Welcome to the 4th issue of 2024! It’s been all systems go here at Mocha! We have had the judging of the ABIA’s and the announcement of Finalists! The Mocha Group family had our big catch-up management meeting, and it was incredible to see so many exciting things on the horizon for our brand. Now, as we step into August, the excitement continues as we count down the days to Beauty Expo in Sydney and our ABIA Gala event!

Being on the judging panel for the ABIAs again this year, I was again blown away by the calibre of the entries. My goodness…salons, clinics & therapists are just levelling up year on year! To all of you who entered, you are all truly amazing and should be incredibly proud of your achievements. To the finalists, a huge congratulations to you all, I wish you all the best for the big night and can’t wait to celebrate with you.

Now let’s take a look at what’s inside this issue. We have some fantastic features that I’m sure you’ll love. Our cover story shines a spotlight on Elleebana, we take a look at Maria Enna Cocciolone’s new brand INSKIN.CO. We also have an exclusive chat with founder of Ultraceuticals, Dr. Heber. Plus, we highlight the stunning Privée Clinic in Sydney and take a trip to the central west of NSW to visit Absolute Beauty in Cowra. Don’t miss our 10 minute catch-up with Tamara Reid and we also hear from Circadia Australia’s CEO, Rachael Stevens, and Managing Director, Phil Stevens. And, of course, our business writers and bloggers have packed this issue with valuable insights and much more!

I also want to take a moment to reflect on the importance of kindness. There is so much going on out there in the world at the moment, and there is so much talk about how tough things are currently, so it’s essential to remember that we never truly know what others are dealing with in their personal and professional lives. Choosing kindness can make a world of difference and help create a supportive, positive environment.

Feedback is another key to growth in our businesses. Constructive criticism helps us improve, while positive feedback reinforces our strengths. Embracing feedback with an open mind is essential for continuous development. Active listening and being proactive rather than reactive are equally important. Truly listening to our clients, colleagues, and team members fosters better communication and understanding. Being proactive allows us to anticipate challenges and opportunities, enabling us to respond thoughtfully rather than impulsively.

As we move through the rest of the year, let’s all commit to these principles. Together, we can continue to elevate our industry and make a lasting impact.

Thank you for being a part of the Beauty Biz community. I am excited for what lies ahead and to share this journey with all of you.

With kindness and gratitude,

Louise May Editor-in-Chief, Mocha Group  Editor, Beauty Biz Magazine

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10 Minutes with Tamara Reid

By Louise May

Tamara Reid’s journey into the beauty industry began by chance at 18, driven by a lack of organisation and a desire for a career that allowed her to travel. Once immersed in the world of beauty, she quickly realised she had found her calling. Tamara believes in exploring various niches and segments within the industry to find the perfect fit. Her diverse experiences in spas, clinics, salons, education, sales, and community roles have given her a comprehensive understanding of the beauty landscape. Today, Tamara’s passion lies in brand development and operations.

Editor of Beauty Biz Louise May spends 10 minutes chatting with Tamara about the beauty industry and the current economic climate, the creation of Skinlympics and all things ‘brand building’…

In your opinion, how is the beauty industry navigating the current economic downturn, and what challenges have you observed?

It’s a really tough world to navigate out there, and I believe that what people refer to as non-essential services, the beauty industry has it the hardest of them all! That being said, we’ve been here before; this landscape isn’t something that’s new to us. Our people are the kindest and most caring, yes, but also the most resilient and tenacious people I’ve come to know. They put their heads down, give their all to their clients and brands to their stockists, and create a plan B. If our industry starts looking at its past performance and tries to future-proof its future performance, then we will have no trouble fighting to treat clients for yet another day!

What strategies have you found effective in maintaining brand visibility and revenue growth during challenging economic times?

1. Get loud. The worst thing you can do during tough times is go quiet. You’re never going to annoy anyone, trust me. If you go quiet, that’s when your audience will panic. When businesses are consistent in the way they show up (email, socials, events, communications), they show that they’re serious about their clients. Consistency is great for visibility and reminds your clients to visit your space or stockists to continue to place orders.

2. Don’t sympathy discount. We often hear from our clients about their situations during tough times, but that doesn’t give you the green light to discount. Your client is in your space, having a treatment with you because they can afford it. They’ve budgeted the time and investment to spend with your business, so it’s only common practice to charge your normal prices.

3. Go above and beyond. By giving your clients an above and beyond experience every single time they interact with your business, you remind them why they chose you, and they will continue to. The moment we hit a rough economic path, and their experience is subpar is the moment they will question whether your business is worth parting with their money for. Map out your entire client journey from the very first touchpoint with you, all the way through to how and when they will return next and ensure that you’re going above and beyond. It’s the one percent efforts that will separate you from the rest and ensure you retain visibility and revenue.

What are the key elements to building a strong and recognisable brand?

First, get clear on who you are as a brand. What do you sound like, look like, smell like, and feel like? Once you’re crystal clear on this, do that all the time, no matter what. Your brand must have a personality for your audience to be able to like, know, and trust it - that’s when they spend. When you know the moving elements of your brand’s personality, you’re more easily able to attract your ideal audience and relate to them. Secondly, get clear on who your ideal audience is - who you want through your doors. Then speak to them. Use the same language they do. Use images that are going to appeal to them. Partner with brands they buy from or shop at. Bring in experiences they want, not experiences that you want. It’s all about them.

Thirdly, saturate them. Where are they hanging out? What do they drink, eat, wear, buy, or do? Be visible at their Pilates studio, the wellness store they buy their sourdough bread from, or donate a voucher to the school fete their kids go to. Whatever you can do to get your brand where your ideal audience is, do it!

What advice would you give to new industry entrepreneurs on creating a brand that resonates with their target audience?

Your uniqueness is your strength. If you want a brand that’s lime green and fluoro pink, and you know your ideal client would love that, then do that. Another blush pink and gold brand isn’t going to stand out in the sea of brands that already exist (no hate to pink and gold brands!).

Right now, there is almost a cookie-cutter version of what a beauty brand should look like, and I reject that. There are so many people who want to feel seen and valued within our industry; however, they don’t feel comfortable fitting into the current mould, and brands are getting overlooked because nothing about them is unique.

If you’re starting a business today, go all out, be different and harness your brand’s authenticity.

How important is it to forge and nurture relationships in the beauty industry?

10 out of 10 on the importance scale. They say, ‘it’s not what you know, but who you know’ and this is absolutely the way our industry rolls. More often than not, I’ve heard about someone multiple times before I ever get to meet them; that’s the power of networking! When networking, never go into a place wanting to take from the people there. You can absolutely have goals in mind for why you’re attending an event, but it’s more advantageous to enter the space with a ‘what can I learn or share’ mindset, rather than a ‘who can I meet that’s going to help me get from A to B’ perspective. When we open up our mindset to learning from others, it creates better connections and forms lifelong relationships.

Can you share some insights on developing and executing successful marketing strategies?

Create campaigns. If you’re launching something, bringing something/ someone into the business, rebranding, building, or whatever you might be doing, build a campaign around it.

Campaigns are like mini stories that bring the audience along for the journey. A new brand, for example, might include the behind-the-scenes build of the business, from the site inspection to the fit-out, right through to the first client. A new product launch, for example, might show the product in development, testing phase, packaging options, invites being sent out, and PR mailers being put together. Campaigning allows you to share stories with your audience and takes them along for the journey from start to finish, which makes them feel personally attached to the mission and invested in what you’re showcasing.

In a highly competitive market, how can beauty brands differentiate themselves and stand out to consumers?

Have a clear strategy around exactly what you want to go to market with (this should be your unique selling point - i.e., what’s different and great about you!), and how you plan to execute along the way. Stick with your strategy and stay consistent. Clear, consistent communication will always make a bigger impact than a brand whose mission is unclear. If you’re all-in on education, ensure the message of what you’re educating on is front and centre. If your brand is organic and you source ingredients specifically aligned with clean farming, make that the hero messaging. Often, we get lost in the how, that we miss the why - and the why is what people relate to and buy into. Your why is what makes you stand out!

Could you discuss the importance of aligning a brand’s values with its business practices and customer interactions?

Everything a brand does should be done with its values at the forefront. This includes how a business operates, the decisions it makes, the way it recruits, and the way it interacts with its customers and audience. Without guiding values, a brand lacks purpose. A purposeless brand is one that customers cannot know, like, or trust.

Before a business considers the time and energy it takes to invest in branding itself, the values are a critical element that should be ironed out 90% of the way. While there is always room for brand values to be refreshed and updated as the direction of the business changes over the course of its life, the values should always remain the number one driver of all core strategies and initiatives.

What are some common mistakes beauty salons/clinics make when trying to establish themselves, and how can they be avoided?

Often, businesses within our industry look outside themselves for answers and inspiration - often to their detriment. Looking at others can cause feelings of unworthiness and instil self-doubt. When imposter syndrome enters the chat, we start to question ourselves and our direction, charge less, conform to what’s ‘normal’ and become inauthentic to ourselves and our businesses. Instead, focus on you and your audience. Speak to them. Research and follow people and brands who positively give you inspiration and feed your creativity in the best way possible. You and your business will naturally flourish, as you’re coming from a place of growth and positive energy.

Another common mistake I see often is what I call the ‘Dory effect’, where we try to be everything to everyone, and get distracted by shiny objects in the room. This dilutes the core messaging of our offers and confuses your audience. Harness what you’re great at and do it on repeat. Become an expert in an area and create a plan to accelerate in that space.

What are some key lessons you’ve learned about brand building that you think are crucial for success in the beauty industry?

To create a great brand, you don’t need to spend a lot of money. You can create a brilliant brand on a budget - I’ve done it twice now! Branding isn’t about who has paid the best agency the most money. Branding is about understanding who you’re speaking to, speaking to them, and being consistent in that language. Brand building takes time and is often hard to measure when it comes to return on your spend. Instead, measure your brand through outcomes like reach, awareness, and impact, all of which will eventually (if you are consistent!) lead to sales, new clients, or higher revenue.

Can you tell us about The Skinlympics. What is it and who is it for? what inspired you to create it? and is it an annual event?

The Skinlympics was created from a desire to shine a light on the people in the treatment room, doing the work - the therapists. Often, great therapists leave our industry because they don’t feel valued or thanked, and there’s little reward for them doing such physical work. It’s a yearly event to recognise and reward professional skin therapists for their outstanding efforts to achieve great skin results for their clients, by taking them on a journey of skin.

Do you have anything exciting on the agenda for the next 12 months?

I’m excited and ready to explore new opportunities this year and take my 16 years of hair and beauty industry-focused career experience across education, sales, brand marketing, and partnerships into businesses where I can lead people and brands with passion and purpose.

@theskinlympics

Nurse Practitioner Leading the Way

PRIVÉE CLINIC

By Louise May

Natalie Abouchar (NP) commenced her nursing career in 1999. She began working at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital in Perth, followed by The Alfred Hospital in Melbourne. It was here, in 2006, that she completed her post graduate education specialising in Intensive Care (Cardiothoracics and heart/lung transplants). She relocated to the UK in 2007 and continued to work throughout London in the NHS for various Intensive Care Units.

From childhood she has always had a strong interest in beauty and skin. It was while living in the UK that she realised this passion and transitioned into the cosmetic medicine field. Natalie has now been in the field of aesthetics since 2008. In 2010 she opened Privée Clinic and has treated thousands of patients over the years in both Sydney and in Perth.

Natalie completed her master’s degree in 2018 and has been endorsed by the medical board of Australia (AHPRA) as a Nurse Practitioner. This is the highest level of achievement within Nursing, above that of a Registered Nurse. As a Nurse Practitioner, she is legally able to prescribe medications, order pathology and work autonomously within the cosmetic specialty. A NP is a protected title.

Natalie specialises in all forms of medical aesthetics and antiageing skin treatments. She has also worked as a trainer for Galderma teaching both Doctors and Nurses the art of safe injecting. She keeps up to date on all the latest trends and techniques by regularly attending conferences and workshops both locally and abroad. She has been quoted in numerous fashion and beauty magazines and industry publications as the go-to person for cosmetic injectables.

After many years in the industry, her love for skin health is still strong and she believes in a holistic approach to ageing, combining injectables with various skin treatments to regenerate and restore natural looking results. Natalie believes that each and every client is special, and prides herself on her attention to detail and her artistic eye. Skin health is not just a job for her, but a hobby and passion. Each patient that visits the clinic will be treated as an individual and will have their own specific goals discussed with them before a tailored treatment plan is created.

Beauty Biz Editor Louise May chats with Natalie…

Tell us about the business, your team and the services you offer. I’m a Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of experience, and I transitioned into the cosmetic medicine field in 2008. In 2010, I opened Privée Clinic in Bondi Junction. Today, it has become a leading non-surgical anti-aging medical clinic in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs.

We specialise in wrinkle reduction treatments, facial contouring and volumisation, regenerative blood therapy, and medical-grade skin treatments and cosmeceuticals. I now have a team of 5 working at Privée! Due to increased demand, I’m opening a new premises in Paddington this year!

Natalie Abouchar (NP)

What sets Privée Clinic apart in the industry?

What sets us apart in the industry, is the level of patient care, integrity and expertise. We treat each person like they are family, spending time getting to know our clients and aiming to work with them consistently for the long haul to improve their skin. We pride ourselves on our warmth and exceptional bedside manner, making every person who walks in the door feel welcome and relaxed. We are dedicated to being honest and not over selling treatments and tailoring treatment plans for each individual patient. These plans are developed following thorough consultations to cater to individual needs and aesthetic goals.

Our team of practitioners brings a wealth of experience to ensure the safety and effectiveness of all treatments. We take pride in utilising cutting-edge technology and innovative methods, consistently staying ahead in the industry to achieve optimal outcomes. Discreetly located in an exclusive and private leafy street in Bondi Junction, the serene atmosphere of the clinic provides a peaceful setting for our clients to relax and rejuvenate. Keep an eye out for our upcoming Paddington clinic, opening soon.

How does being a skin clinic led by a Nurse Practitioner influence the treatments and services you offer?

The fact that Privée Clinic is a Nurse Practitioner led skin clinic significantly influences the treatments and services we offer, ensuring they are clinically sound. My skincare philosophy is firmly based on medical knowledge, ensuring that each procedure is carried out with meticulous care, precision, and detail. Our treatments are backed by the latest scientific research, offering clients cutting-edge anti-ageing solutions. With a nursing background and a skilled team, we are capable of offering a combination of high standards of bedside manner, experience and evidence-based treatments.

What trends are you noticing are on the rise in the industry?

There’s a clear trend of moving toward biostimulatory skin treatments to stimulate collagen and elastin production and away from excessive and unnatural volumising filler treatments. Patients want to actually reverse skin ageing and have long lasting results with glowing and radiant skin. They are starting to realise that skin health is more than just relaxing and filling wrinkles, it’s a more holistic approach to skin health. Both Profhilo and Rejuran have been massively popular in our clinic.

Another trend is that patients are becoming more aware of the risks of going to untrained, inexpensive places and are opting for higher-quality services. As patients become more educated about the benefits and risks, they’re increasingly seeking out reputable Practitioners who can deliver safe, professional results.

How do you balance business and personal life?

Balancing business and personal life is always a challenge! I’m a single mum of a 14-year-old boy so it’s not easy, but I’m lucky to have a supportive network around me. I also have a solid workout routine every morning which keeps me focused and allows me to reduce stress when things get busy or overwhelming. I have some amazing staff helping in the background which helps everything run smoothly. I could not do it without them!

What’s on your Agenda for the next 12 months?

We have an exciting year with the Clinic expanding to open at Paddington. At our two locations we’ll offer more skin treatments and innovations, and I’m very focused on continuously improving our offerings and staying at the forefront of the industry. So, I encourage everyone to join our newsletter to keep up to date!

Emily, Max and Natalie

Natalie, & Emily

The Heart & Soul of Absolute Beauty .

By Louise May

Kellie Thurtell is the visionary owner of Absolute Beauty in Cowra, NSW. She has created a sanctuary for beauty and wellness through her dedication and passion. Growing up in the picturesque countryside of central west NSW, Kellie’s journey into the beauty industry began with a love for the bold and vibrant trends of the 1980s.

With a varied career background, she eventually found her true calling in beauty therapy and opened Absolute Beauty in 2008. Over the years, Kellie has built a salon that thrives on core values such as honesty, integrity, and empathy, ensuring each guest feels genuinely cared for.

Louise May, Editor of Beauty Biz Magazine, recently caught up with Kellie to find out more about her beauty business, her gorgeous team and what makes her business so special.

Can you tell us a little about you, where did you grow up and how did your journey in the beauty industry begin?

I was born in Cowra, central west NSW. Blessed to grow up on a small acreage with chooks, pigs, lambs, lots of pets, a dairy next door and surrounded by paddocks of seasonal lucerne and wheat. My dad looked after part of Edgell’s farm, so we had fresh seasonal veg like beans corn, asparagus, peas. Winters are cold and summers are hot but whatever the season our area is picturesque surrounded by everchanging incredible colours and crisp fresh air. My taste for the beauty industry started in the 1980’s.... My teenage years... How blessed was I. ha-ha! Big hair, big eyes, BIG SHOULDERPADS and thankfully no social media! Our bible was The Bible of course (and yes, we went to church on Sundays) and Dolly Magazine! As a teenager I would replicate the looks in that.... Scary thoughts now but so much fun then.

How did Absolute Beauty Salon & Spa begin, how long have you been open?

Fast forward to 1999 after many other tastes of working life (tourism, Hospitality, first cook, real estate, Retail and legal secretary) my then therapists aka Hairdresser and nail tech encouraged me to do first an acrylic nail course and then that went into beauty therapy.

Working part time after hours in a salon was so refreshing after a day in front of the computer. In 2008, again after encouragement from same therapists I opened a small salon above my hairdresser. I moved the salon to another space within 12 months as I learned quickly that the dynamics of hair and beauty doesn’t sometimes work and definitely didn’t in that small space. I pinch myself that I’m still in business. I love people and have been so blessed to have met so many incredible humans throughout my years in this industry.

What are your core values and philosophies?

Starting a business in a small community means you have to run on life basics, Honesty, integrity, empathy and love. Always doing the best you can do. Putting your guest first. Listening and nurturing them while they are with you, even if it’s for a 10min appointment.

Originally when I first opened Absolute Beauty Cowra, I aimed to use natural, plant based and organic Australian owned products. I loved the bespoke small skincare & make up companies. Some of these I still stock on my shelves although the companies have grown to be leaders ... Inika Organic & Eco by Sonya Driver.

How do you ensure that every client who walks through your doors has a memorable and positive experience?

Treat people as you would like to be treated. Listen, smile and actually care. Our guests are greeted on entry with a generous smile and hello. These are free and work wonders. The front of the salon is quite open and spacious, warm and inviting. Everyone is treated the same whether they spend $20 every 12 months or $200 every week. We always strive to do our best. We are conscious not to become complacent.

What sets you apart?

Our small town has so many wonderful, incredibly knowledgeable therapists and salons. We all run our own race striving for our own personal best. We support each other. I’m sure that’s across the industry though.

What

Services do you offer?

From Left To Right (Giselle/Kell/Abbey/Alarna)

When I first started Absolute Beauty, my salon was built on Nail enhancements (Acrylics) booked solid on a 3 week rotation. Slowly adding in waxing, relaxing facials and massage. In the beginning I vowed only to do traditional basic beauty and skin treatments ‘no machines’ natural products and preferably Australian made. If I couldn’t do it with my hands and delicious natural products it wasn’t done. Once l employed my first apprentice, I realised that it was unfair to them not to introduce new treatments, even basics like tanning, laser and teeth whitening. The industry was moving faster than I had time to keep up with honestly, and my clientele wasn’t really interested in more than we offered. That has changed so much now. We are continually adding new treatments and growing as a business and team.

Skin care can be confusing for many clients. How do you help clients understand their skin needs and choose the right treatments?

Taking the time to listen to our clients and what their skincare concerns would be. Asking questions about their lifestyle. we also perform a skin consultation to check over their skin as well, just to make sure we are providing them with the right treatments and products they need. We encourage a signature facial treatment so our therapists can get a good look at their skin, build rapport with the client, choose what will work best at that time. For homecare we would try to start simple with a cleanser, exfoliant, moisturiser and a SPF as to not overwhelm our clients first up, we would build their skincare routine from there. We would also go through all our products individually providing a detailed description of how to use them and what they would need them for. We would also write these down on to their consultation forms so the client can take them home with them then check in or follow up with a quick call after a few days to make sure each product is right for them or if they have any questions.

After a skin consult, we tailor this facial for you with specific products to cleanse, exfoliate, massage & masque. Adding serums and moisturisers to enhance your skins ability to regain optimum brightness and hydration.

What is one of your Signature Services that clients just love?

Our Hydro dermabrasion Treatment has been on our menu for some time now and it remains very popular! Our clients love the ultimate exfoliation without ‘downtime’ and hydration for their skin, using a diamond head wand to carefully remove all of the surface dead skin cells as well as cleaning and removing any debris from your pores. After removing all of the build-up we then use the hydro head to re-infuse hydration to the skin, adding a serum prior can also help to get that extra hydration. A Hydro dermabrasion will improve your skins texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines and gives a deeper hydration to the skins layers. During this treatment we will use the Dermalogica pro products to enhance skins results, these products are completely customisable based on your skin goals. Consider this treatment a complete skin reset! It is an extremely popular service!

Can you tell us more about your therapists and their expertise?

Absolute Beauty would not be what it is without this team. Finding passionate team members is very difficult and ‘lost passion and burnout’ happens regularly. Add in that Cowra is a small community and young people love to travel, so keeping a team is difficult. I feel very blessed to have had the teams I’ve had both past and present. My Current team consists of three of the most beautiful young women I know. Alarna starting with work experience in my salon in 2017 then going on to complete a Diploma in Beauty Therapy at Tafe in Orange NSW. Then starting at Absolute Beauty in 2020. Alarna is knowledgeable and incredibly sincere. Abbey joining my team fresh out of year 10 in 2021 at Cowra High originally on reception then finding love with this industry and completing her apprenticeship. Abbey is our go to amongst the team, a born leader.

Giselle joining in 2022, with a cert III in beauty and currently finishing her Diploma. Giselle is fun loving and passionate about skin, always keen to learn new things and has a genuine love for people.

How do you keep your team updated with the latest trends and techniques in the beauty industry?

In some ways(only a few) covid lock down was a blessing. Training and Education is so much more accessible for rural salons now with the use of online. We are blessed we have trainers come to us too. Working with the wonderful team at Dermalogica makes training very easy.

What’s on the agenda for the rest of the year?

We are pumped and getting ready for our annual trip to Beauty expo! It is so inspiring, we always come back excited and ready to implement new ideas and wow our beautiful clients.

We can’t wait!

@absolutebeauty_cowra

Shine Skin & Body’s Signature Approach to Carbon Facials

By Louise May

In the heart of Melbourne lies Shine Skin & Body, a beacon of innovative skincare led by the passionate and skilled Sheridan Rollard. Crowned the Award-Winning Salon 2024 Skinlympian of the Year, Shine Skin & Body has revolutionised the skincare industry with its bespoke treatments and commitment to excellence.

We sat down with Sheridan to delve into the specifics of one of their standout treatments—the Carbon Facial. With a unique approach that combines cutting-edge technology and their renowned extraction technique, this treatment has garnered rave reviews and exceptional results for their clients.

Sheridan shares insights into the development and success of the Carbon Facial, the science behind it, and the unparalleled dedication to client care.

When did you start trialling the carbon facial? And how long did the trials last for?

We started trailing in July last year when we received our laser machine. We loved the theory and science behind carbon facials and thought it would be perfect for our clients. We started off trialling the 30-minute carbon facial as it is done elsewhere, but as an acne clinic, most of our clients have quite a bit of congestion and bacteria and we found it was great at helping with acne, but not clearing it out fully and our clients were purging. This worried us a bit and was a stumbling block. That is when we decided to increase the time of the facial to include our famous extraction technique and then we started getting amazing feedback and results.

Why did you want to add the carbon facial to your services?

As an acne specialist skin clinic, we have become famous for our extraction technique and getting amazing results for acne. I had heard about carbon facials and thought it would elevate our game even more as well as achieve faster results for our clients and we weren’t wrong! The science behind it - the carbon being attracted to the oil, skin debris and congestion in the pore intrigued me. I thought it would help us get down further into the pore and really start to loosen the congestion to achieve a cleaner extraction process. We had used bha peels for this purpose before to achieve a deeper clear out, but that had the side effect of downtime from peeling and dryness. With carbon there is no downtime, and you also achieve radiant skin from the exfoliation process. So, it was a win all round. It actually has been better than we had hoped, and we are getting amazing clearance for our clients in only a few facials.

What results did you see with your clients when you did not follow up the carbon facial with extractions?

Carbon facials, also known as China Doll facials, are well known for the radiant clear skin they achieve and that can happen if someone has pretty clear skin with maybe just a few blackheads. I see how it is a great facial for radiance but as we were dealing with more congestion than that, anything from deeper whiteheads to pimples, we found it just made people purge if extractions weren’t done. It loosens, stirs things up and brings anything in the pores closer to the surface, but doesn’t pull it out. At shine we believe it needs to come out to get out, hence why we do the extractions post carbon.

What are the processes you go through after the carbon part of the facial and typically how long do you spend on extractions after the carbon facial?

After the carbon we then continue on like we would do our normal facials. At Shine all our facials are customised to the client. As a typical procedure we steam and do extractions. For our clients extractions are their priority so we do as many as they need, or we have time for. This could be 5-30 mins. Using our technique formulated over my 27yrs, it means we don’t scar or infect our client’s skin, and we can easily do that much on a client without any problems.

If a client only needs a few extractions, then we perform a massage and or a mask, but as mentioned extractions always come first.

What results did you see when you started adding the extractions to the carbon facial?

It was instant from the first trial client after adding the extractionsclearer skin. We breathed a sigh of relief! Then we kept trialling to be sure. We even did a couple more 30-minute carbons to check again, and the same feedback of purging was reported back.

What feedback have you received from clients?

Once a client tries it there is no going back and they are loving them. I have one client who I struggled with for years due to underlying issues of stress from studying and her preferred choice of processed foods. I did two carbon extraction facials on her and now her skin is clear and has stayed clear for over six months. We are both in shock! Another client we have has been doing them monthly and her skin has never been clearer and more radiant. It is managing the severity of her hormonal breakouts and there is visibly less congestion, now it is only one or two cysts that heal quickly. She has told us she is getting comments of how beautiful her skin looks. There are numerous stories of our clients saying their skin is clearer for longer and more radiant.

How important is research and testing in the development of new treatments at Shine Skin & Body, and how did this process inform the creation of the Carbon Blackhead Removal Facial?

There is always a lead in time before we release a treatment. We are very invested in training our staff and believing in the results we can achieve for our clients. There wasn’t a lot of knowledge about carbon facials out there. Not many studies have been done, so some of my drive was blind faith on limited information. In this case testing the treatment proved to be our saviour as that is how we found out the 30-minute version that is popular out there and offered by other facialists just wasn’t for us as an acne clinic. It didn’t give the results we were after for our clients and the testing enabled us to make it work for us.

Could you discuss the process you use for an Acne and Scar Reduction Facial and how?

The acne and Scar Reduction Facial is carbon, extractions and then fractionated laser. This acts like needle-less needling. Therefore, we can clear any acne and work on scarring and skin texture all in one facial. It has been a game changer.

Once we clear our clients’ skin of constant breakouts, we then normally move onto needling to help texture, scarring and skin health. The obstacle we come up against though, is we can’t do extractions with needling, so clients are having to have quite frequent facials doing an extraction and needling facial program. The Acne and Scar Reduction Facial puts it all into one and also is amazing for healing.

We love the no downtime and virtually painless aspects of needleless needling.

• cont’d from page 17

What sets Shine Skin & Body apart from other salons offering facials?

Extractions. There are other therapists out there that do them, but we are the only salon in Melbourne that specialises in them as a whole salon and have refined our technique to the level we have, plus we use no tools. Also, the level of our training. It doesn’t stop for our staff. We are on a constant learning curve; the skin and body are ever changing, and you can never learn everything. It’s important to stay inquisitive to help as many people as we can.

Your salon is known for its no-tool extraction technique. Why is this important and how does this approach contribute to the effectiveness of treatments?

I have tested and trialled extraction techniques my whole career. In my first job I was lucky to be mentored by an amazing owner Natalie from Natskin who first taught me extractions. I then took that initial training and refined it over time. I have used tools on and off in the past, but I find they are quite harsh, leave marks in the skin and can contribute to scarring. We prefer the hands-on feeling as we can gauge the pressure to ensure the client’s skin is protected. We have also had this feedback from clients who have been elsewhere, they call and ask if we use them and when told we don’t, they always book in, as they have had bad experiences.

What is the importance of a full assessment of the client’s skin, and how much of a difference does it make to the results?

All our clients start their journey with us booking a discovery facial. This includes an approximately 20-minute consultation and a 45-minute facial. We take skin seriously and know that your medical history, lifestyle, skincare habits, makeup, diet and hormones to name a few all have a big impact on acne, how the skin reacts and how it heals.

With the number of extractions, we do on a client their skin needs to be able to heal effectively and those factors will affect that. More importantly though, we want to clear people’s skin, so we want to get to the cause. Otherwise, people are having a facial every four weeks without results because of their lifestyle.

We once had a client who had had congestion on her forehead for years and through our consultation, we discovered she had an intolerance to garlic. We extracted what she had, she gave up garlic, and came back one month later and her skin was clear. Without the consultation, she would have just been adding to the congestion every month and we would have just been clearing it every month.

What is your approach to skincare products?

We use dermaviduals as our main range in the salon. We have stocked it now since 2019. We love the customisation. I love having a range of 5a reductase inhibitor serums (helping with hormonal breakouts and quality of oil in the pore) being able to help with pigmentation, scarring or healing, all in only a few products instead of one each.

With the rise of social media, people are randomly using some pretty bad skincare, either too many acids, over exfoliating, comedogenic ingredients or not moisturising. They can come in with a stripped barrier, inflammation, poor wound healing and unbalanced skin. dermaviduals allows us to balance the microbiome and protect the skin in stages and guide a client to healthy skin that functions well and heals fast.

How do you ensure you stay up to date with the latest innovations in skincare to continually offer cutting-edge treatments?

Read! We are so blessed with so much information on the internet and industry magazines. Get to know who is out there. You just need to be careful people have qualifications and knowledge. I have attended training and follow some amazing women, Robyn McAlpine, Chizza Westcarr, Lia Trebilcock, Nancy Abdou from TADLI. Pia Kynoch and Kiarra Olsen are both amazing naturopaths. Dr Miranda Miles for everything hormonal and menopause. I was lucky enough to attend a training session by Florence Barrett-Hill before she retired and still did pastiche courses. I attend APAN conferences. And from dermaviduals Head trainer Lisa Panone and my DBM Maria. Oh, the list could go on! Also training my staff keeps me refreshing knowledge on a constant basis.

@shineskinandbody

Colour with Confidence!

Building a Community of Excellence. How Elleebana Supports Beauty Professionals Worldwide.

By Louise May

Elleebana’s journey began with a simple yet powerful mission: to elevate the careers of beauty professionals worldwide. Since 1995, we have prioritised innovation and quality.

It began with a few key products and rapidly expanded, fuelled by a dedication to meeting the genuine needs of lash and brow artists. Elleebana’s flagship products, Elleebana One Shot and Elleeplex Profusion, have become essential systems for achieving stunning and consistent results.

Over the years, we have built a community fostering a culture of support and excellence. This journey is marked by continuous learning, and a relentless drive to uplift the industry. From humble beginnings to a global presence, Elleebana remains dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering beauty professionals at every stage of their career.

Passion for Career Development

Elleebana is deeply committed to the career development of beauty professionals. This passion is evident in the comprehensive education curriculum we offer. This curriculum is meticulously designed to equip lash and brow artists with the skills and knowledge they need to excel. Our educational initiatives are not just about teaching techniques; we focus on fostering a deeper understanding of the science behind the products, safety protocols, and client care. This commitment to education underscores our belief that empowered and well-trained professionals are key to the industry’s growth and success.

The Elleebana Symposium Experience - A Global Gathering Elleebana symposium is our annual educators’ event where we showcase our new product innovations, revised education packages and systems. This project has been held in iconic locations such as Las Vegas, Canada, London and Lisbon. It’s our opportunity to reinforce Elleebana’s brand positioning “think globally, act locally” in a unique way, bringing together educators, distributors, and lash and brow artists from around the world. Attendees immerse themselves into the world of lash and brow enhancement, network, share experiences, and learn from each other. From hands-on workshops to keynote presentations, the symposium covers the latest trends and innovations in the industry. Global trainers and distributors gain valuable insights and practical skills that they can apply in their own practices. The event also fosters a sense of community, allowing participants to build relationships that last long after the symposium ends. By uniting beauty professionals from different countries and backgrounds, the Elleebana Symposium strengthens the global beauty community.

Otto Mitter

Commitment to Excellence and Innovative Products

Elleebana has earned its reputation through a constant commitment to innovation and have set new standards in the lash and brow industry. We continually invest in research and development to address industry challenges and meet the evolving needs of beauty professionals. Our most recent offering Elleeplex Profusion has captured the hearts of the lash and brow industry by offering an innovative system that takes the worrying out of overprocessing lashes and brows which has been one of the biggest fears for lash and brow artists that offer lash lifting services. An important part of the success for Elleebana is coming up with solutions that help lash and brow artists in the worldwide community, we audaciously set the trend in the beginning by having the world’s fastest system, which helps artists with efficiency in results and profitability, but then also tailoring our offerings to have a system that will not damage lashes and brows and that allows forgiveness with mistakes in the application process, this was a revolutionary step for the lash lift industry and changed the game.

Lash Lift Versatility - Freestyle Lash Lift vs Original Method

We have been showcasing Lash Lift versatility around the globe with the highly acclaimed session, “Freestyle Lash Lift vs Original Method,” which shares exclusives insights into the evolving nature and nuances of Lash Lift methods. The Freestyle Lash Lift represents a significant evolution in lash treatment, offering versatility and superior outcomes compared to traditional methods, thereby contributing to an impact on salon profitability. The success of the session resulted in invitations to present at the International Cosmetics and Spa Convention in Las Vegas earlier this year with 250 attendees, at LashBoss in Texas to 300 beauticians and Beauty Expo Australia.

The Power of Culture and Community

Elleebana’s success is deeply rooted in the power of our culture and community. We have cultivated a global network of esteemed educators and distributors that are passionate about the industry. You can have amazing products, but it takes amazing people behind the brand to set yourself apart and give you individuality and your unique story. Elleebana has a sense of community that has inspired many and that is why the brand continues on the trajectory of growth as the people understand the genuine core values of what Elleebana represents and they align with this ethos. By fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support, we ensure that lash artists, beauticians and salon owners feel valued and empowered. Elleebana’s community is not just a network; it’s a source of inspiration and strength that propels the brand forward. By harnessing the power of community, Elleebana continues to lead the lash and brow industry, setting new benchmarks for quality, excellence and innovation.

Otto Mitter is a qualified cosmetic chemist, make up artist, and multi award winning educator and assessor in the beauty industry and multi certified eyelash extensions educator, competition judge, Lash Masters Alumni and Owner and Managing Director of Elleebana.

www.elleebana.com

Finalists Announced for the 2024 Australian Beauty Industry Awards !

The best in beauty around the country have again been championed with the announcement of the Finalists for the Australian Beauty Industry Awards 2024. Launched in 2012 by industry authority Mocha Group, the ABIA’s are the trusted national award platform which provide a benchmark of excellence across both specialist and individual categories in beauty and make-up.

Comprising 30 categories in total, the ABIAs consistently highlight and celebrate industry Leaders and Experts in their respective fields, celebrating the breadth of the industry’s diversity. The awards’ constant evolution to reflect the latest global trends and developments was seen in the phenomenal increase in entries this again year, with certain categories receiving over 25 submissions.

This year’s entries were judged by over 30 industry icons, each chosen for their extensive industry, business, and creative experience. These acclaimed experts each play a crucial role in recognising and celebrating excellence and generously give their time to do so.

The deserving Winners of this year’s ABIAs will be announced at the ABIA Gala event in Sydney at The Star. Surprises for the night are still to be revealed but guests can expect a spectacular opening show, as always, with the muchanticipated after-party held on site at The Star in the stunning Grand Foyer, sponsored by Circadia.

Other sponsors for the awards include Vitaman, Naked Tan, Esthetica Academy, Dermapenworld, Total Coaching Academy, Gay Wardle, Glymed Plus Australia, Your Coach, Global Beauty Group, Dermalogica, Dermaviduals, Shortcuts, inskincosmedics, Ultraceuticals, Kitomba, Inspire Brands, APMAC, Comfortel, Beauty Expo, Biodroga, Elleebanna, BDR Medical Beauty, Refectocil, Circadia Australia and Aust Dermal Science Institute.

The ABIA Gala night will also reveal the names of the 2024 Beauty Squad, the acclaimed program which supports and spotlights next-gen talent, as well as the very special ABIA 2024 Humanitarian of the Year and Hall of Fame recipient Ceo and founder of the ABIA and mocha group, Linda Woodhead is honoured to shine a light on these deserving Finalists;

“To experience record breaking numbers of entries year on year really proves that the Australian beauty industry is dedicated to excellence for their clients, teams and communities. 2024 has far exceeded our expectations, with over 6,000 votes cast for ABIA Wholesaler of the Year alone!

The ABIA’s are a true litmus test of the health of our industry and as we continue to navigate a challenging economic climate, there has never been a more important time to recognise and honour their skill, innovation and service.”

ABIA 2024 Finalists

JUNIOR THERAPIST OF THE YEAR

AUSTRALIAN BEAUTY INDUSTRY AWARDS 2024

SOLE OPERATOR OF THE YEAR

JOIN US AT BEAUTY EXPO AUSTRALIA!

Beauty Expo Australia unites the beauty industry in the country’s largest celebration of all things beauty over one weekend. Be inspired with this unparalleled opportunity for connection and inspiration with a community of like-minded professionals. Join us at the ICC Sydney Exhibition Centre Darling Harbour, Saturday 24 August 9am – 5pm to Sunday 25 August 9am – 5pm.

Over 30 sessions of immersive education, providing cutting edge insights, innovations and skills for your business and team. The Australian Beauty & Aesthetic Conference (ABAC) is 2 days of feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, case studies and educational sessions tailored around the business of beauty, wellness and aesthetics. This year we are excited to be showcasing live aesthetic treatments for the first time.

Shop from Australia’s largest collection of professional beauty brands and products across 32 categories, including; Derma Aesthetics, Cutera Australia, Hydrafacial, Clinimed Aesthetics, Intraceuticals, Professional Beauty Solutions, Laseraid and many more.

Book a free half hour consultation with our line-up of specialists in Salon Management, Sales and Marketing, Training & Development on the Business Couch. This is incredible opportunity to help push your business to the next level.

The Beauty Live demonstration area is your must-see space to learn more about current trends in the Beauty industry. Showcasing demonstrations from industry professionals in brows, skincare, lashes, make-up and so much more! This is your perfect opportunity to see up-close how the latest products work in action, and to ask any questions you may have.

Whether you want to attend all sessions or just meet our incredible brands, we have a ticket option to suit you, make the most of booking your tickets early with our early bird rates. To book your tickets and for all information for Beauty Expo, please visit: www.beautyexpoaustralia.com.au

RUSSH LAUNCHES NEW BEAUTY TITLE

RUSSH magazine has just launched an annual print title to serve its growing beauty community.

Introducing RUSSH BEAUTY – which is “a commitment to a version of beauty that is accessible to all,” according to the title.

RUSSH Beauty will showcase stories of creative expression and personal growth from a variety of Australian talents. The first cover features Dutch model, Jill Kortleve, known for her work with Alexander McQueen and CHANEL.

“For 20 years, RUSSH has been a community for creative minds where beauty and wellbeing has been an important method for self-expression and fulfilment,” said publisher and editor-in-chief, Jess Blanch.

“We’ve always strived for a version of beauty that is recognisable to all and we are energised to lead that conversation for our community, beyond our regular digital platform, with a dedicated print flagship.”

RUSSH Beauty is on newsstands now.

HYDROPEPTIDE APPOINTS PROFESSIONAL BEAUTY SOLUTIONS AS EXCLUSIVE AU & NZ DISTRIBUTOR

HydroPeptide is pleased to announce they have appointed Professional Beauty Solutions as the exclusive distributor for Australia and New Zealand. With over 18 years within the Australian beauty industry, Professional Beauty Solutions is a natural home for the growth of HydroPeptide. As Professional Beauty Solutions provides salons, spas and clinics with unmatched support, best-in-class products, and leading education, HydroPeptide is a welcomed addition for their salon partners.

“We are so thrilled to announce our partnership with Professional Beauty Solutions as HydroPeptide’s exclusive distributor in Australia and New Zealand,” says Annette Rubin, HydroPeptide Chief Executive Officer. “Australia and New Zealand are important markets for us,and we care deeply about the professionals who drive its success. United by a shared commitment to skincare professionals, we are dedicated to delivering extraordinary results in everything we do.”

As the experts in the science of skin ageing, HydroPeptide’s products are powered by patented peptide technology and developed by geneticists. Backed by epigenetic research and tested in treatment rooms and clinics worldwide, HydroPeptide formulas improve your skin’s function at the cellular level for results beyond the surface. www.probeautysolutions.com.au

A NEW EXCITING FORMULATION FROM THE BESPOKE SKINCARE EXPERTS

Elevate your skincare routine with the phospholipid-infused formulation, Phosphatidylserine Nanoparticles by dermaviduals. Formulated to actively address inflammatory mediators, this nanoparticle promotes a calm complexion, preserving the skin’s barrier function to accelerate the skin’s natural healing process reducing unwanted inflammation. This powerful active, boosted with antioxidant benefits, effectively controls age management concerns as it supports the skin’s collagen integrity resulting in the minimised appearance of lines and wrinkles while promoting a youthful looking skin.

Phosphatidylserine Nanoparticles is the perfect formulation to support conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis as it plays a fundamental role in wound healing by promoting platelet activation and increasing blood-clotting factors, while simultaneously inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) to preserve tissue integrity.

With a vast array of benefits for barrier disordered skin, age management and acne concerns, Phosphatidylserine Nanoparticles merges easily into any skincare routine to provide abundant antioxidant, anti inflammatory and skin barrier building benefits due to its unique ability to regulate apoptosis. www.dermaviduals.com.au

EXCEED Microneedling

DISCOVER INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE AT SYDNEY BEAUTY EXPO WITH DERMAVIDUALS

Experience three amazing and cutting-edge brands that redefine skincare and beauty. From bespoke skincare formulations to advanced microneedling and essential fatty acid solutions, this stand promises a unique experience for trade professionals and consumers alike.

Experience 3 Exclusive Brands: dermaviduals

Unlock the power of personalised skincare with dermaviduals, a brand that stands at the forefront of bespoke skincare solutions. Their formulations are meticulously compounded in-clinic, tailored to address individual skin types and conditions. With over 40 active ingredients at their disposal, they craft custom formulations in minutes, ensuring superior results for every client, every time.

Experience the future of skincare with EXCEED by amiea med, a medical microneedling device that sets new standards in precision and efficacy. Clinically proven to visibly reduce wrinkles and treat acne scarring, EXCEED microneedling enhances skin complexion through the activation of the skin’s natural regenerative processes, stimulating collagen synthesis.

SIMKA

Address essential fatty acid deficiency (EFAD) and promote skin health from within with SIMKAs Alpha Omega-3 products. Their golden oil, cultivated from non-genetically modified microalgae, provides a sustainable and cruelty-free solution to replenish the essential fatty acids your skin craves. Attendees will also get a first look at the NEW SIMKA Cooling and Hydrating Bio-Cellulose Masks, emphasising barrier repair and microbiome care.

This stand at the Sydney Beauty Expo is more than just a display; it’s an interactive experience designed to engage and educate and you are invited to discover the transformative power of these products.

Join them at the Sydney Beauty Expo!

Derma Aesthetics Australia Pty Ltd will be at stand E139!

AESTHETIC NURSE SOFTWARE

Introducing Aesthetic Nurse Software (ANS), an easy-to-use and comprehensive clinic software that takes care of patient records, bookings, reminders and reporting, developed specifically for aesthetic practitioners. Trusted by more than 2,000 aesthetic clinics around the world, the software platform is now available in Australia, with built-in features that support local practitioners to comply with recent AHPRA guidelines.

Choosing a software that’s designed for aesthetic clinics, like ANS, be a game changer for your business. It makes it quick and simple for injectors to access key patient information, in one place. No longer filing cabinets or across multiple bits of software.

Aesthetic Nurse Software goes beyond just scheduling bookings. It seamlessly integrates a clinical pathway for documentation that’s designed around the medical aesthetics workflow, covering everything from medical history and consent forms, before and after photos, treatment notes and treatment mapping. Meaning, you have a complete set of records for every single patient.

When we built ANS, it had to be super simple to use, save nurses time in the daily running of their clinic and be secure! Our founder, Jo, is a nurse so we completely understand just how much cosmetic nurses must think about on a daily basis, that’s why we made sure ANS not only ticked the boxes for record keeping but also provided all the tools they need to manage and grow their business with ease.

ANS makes diary management effortless with online booking and deposits integrated as part of the software. Automated messages can also be set up to remind patients about their appointment and reduce no-shows, as well as automatic follow-up messages to check in with patients and collect reviews.

Aesthetic Nurse Software also gives injectors peace of mind that they are working within the record keeping requirements of AHPRA for non-surgical cosmetic treatments, by offering crucial features that meet these requirements.

Cosmetic nurses need a software that takes care of all of the time consuming, but important, tasks that come with owning a business. ANS helps free up time wherever possible, allowing practitioners to focus on what’s important – offering an excellent service and growing their business. www.aestheticnursesoftware.com

The Best Winter Skin Fix For Plump and Glowy Skin .

By Dr Giulia D’Anna

As the mercury drops, more Australians are experiencing itchy, dry, and scaly skin, symptoms which are frequently associated with asteatotic eczema aka the ‘winter itch’. Cold months can be especially difficult for those with sensitive skin as they are exposed to the harsh outdoor elements or overheating from indoor heating, extra clothing layers, and electric blankets. A handful of common skin conditions tend to develop or worsen with the cold including rosacea, cold urticaria and seborrheic dermatitis.

According to the Eczema Association of Australia (EAA) 72% of eczema sufferers say weather is the biggest trigger for flare ups. Cold and dry weather saps the skin of its plumpness as the lack of humidity depletes the skin barrier of moisture, leading to these symptoms in people without eczema too. Fighting back against the effects of cold weather on the skin is all about boosting hydration and protecting the skin with a physical barrier to minimise weather-related damage.

This winter season a noticeable trend towards more intensive skin treatments is emerging, driven by advancements in skincare. On top of combatting the environmental conditions that deplete the skin in winter, the cold months also happen to be the ideal time to address deep-seated skin concerns due to reduced sun exposure and heat. Paired with heavy duty moisturisers, vitamin loaded serums and oils, winter skin care is all about prepping the skin to reveal a fresh and youthful exterior in time for spring.

Hydration and skin boosters

Hydration is paramount to winter skin care as it prevents cold air and indoor heating from stripping moisture from the skin. New developments in moisturising and skin boosting treatments utilise deep-tissue hydration that also improves skin texture and elasticity. Topical solutions containing hyaluronic acid, ceramides, glycerin, shea butter, and plain old petroleum jelly are hero ingredients that provide long-lasting protection from winter dryness and prepare the skin to better withstand harsh conditions. Humectants like glycerin and hyaluronic acid helps skin retain moisture while occlusives like shea butter and petroleum jelly create a waterproof barrier that prevents painful skin cracking.

‘Hardcore treatments’ on the rise

Winter’s reduced sun exposure and cooler temperatures create an optimal environment for more aggressive skin treatments that few would be inclined to try at the height of summer. The sun’s rays are less intense which means the risks associated with photosensitivity and pigmentation post-treatment decrease, making it the perfect time to undertake more intensive procedures.

Laser treatments

On a similar note, laser skin resurfacing treatments which can be invasive on the skin should ideally take place in the winter months. Known for its efficacy in correcting a range of concerns from fine lines and wrinkles to acne scars, laser resurfacing nonetheless comes with side effects like itchiness, redness, swelling, and

pain as the skin heals. The cooler winter climate minimises this as sun exposure post-treatment is drastically reduced, leading to a more comfortable and predictable recovery process.

Heavy duty peels

Chemical peels, particularly those that penetrate deeply into the skin’s layers is another type of treatment which should ideally take place in winter. Designed to remove dead skin cells and promote cell regeneration, improve pigmentation, texture and skin tone, chemical peels particularly render the skin to become more sensitive to sunlight. Winter, with its shorter days and lower UV index, is the best time for patients to undergo more intensive peels without the added risk of sun damage.

Correcting pigmentation in winter

Those with pigmentation concerns such as sunspots, melasma, and dark spots also benefit from treatment in wintertime as pigmentation tends to become more pronounced with sun exposure. Winter provides a strategic opportunity to tackle pigmentation headon via treatments like laser therapy and chemical peels which have increased efficacy due to the lower risk of sun exposure. Though not without its drawbacks, winter is becoming the go-to season for intensive skin rejuvenation and repair. With a combination of tailored products and professional treatment, winter skincare is being touted by the experts as the new way to achieve your best skin ever.

Dr. Giulia D’Anna, founder of Dermal Distinction Academy, is a leading expert in skin and cosmetic injectables. With a background in dentistry from the University of Melbourne, she has advanced her knowledge in dermal science and non-surgical procedures through studies at the University of Pennsylvania and AACDS. A member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons, Dr. D’Anna is recognised for her contributions to ethical aesthetics and skin care. She educates aspiring practitioners and hosts the Dermal Distinction Podcast, focusing on ethical practices in skin treatments. @dermal_distinction

Impacts of Vaping on Skin.

By Isabella Loneragan

While studies on the long-term health implications of vaping are ongoing, there is clear evidence that vaping has negative impacts on skin, exacerbating a bevy of skin conditions including acne, rosacea, fine lines and wrinkles, and even spurring the formation of ‘smoker’s lips.’

Award-winning skin and dermal therapist, Isabella Loneragan, says vaping is potentially the culprit behind a noticeable rise in skin complaints from young people in particular.

“I have noticed an increase in younger people visiting my clinic who are fairly frustrated with their skin and now, one of the first questions I ask is whether they vape because, although vaping hasn’t been around for too long, its impacts on skin are proving just as bad – if not worse – than cigarette smoking,” explains Isabella.

According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, one in five Australians have tried an e-cigarette at least once, and almost one in ten aged 18-24 vape daily.

“Akin to cigarette smoking, vaping incorporates an inhalation of toxins and so it’s inevitable that some of these toxins will be deposited in the skin, causing damage to the skin barrier and inflammation impacting the skin’s ability to function normally.

“One of the most significant impacts of vaping is an exacerbation of acne. More and more studies are showing that the nicotine in e-cigarettes can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the skin, which leads to inflammation and the development of flares of acne.

“Vaping can cause an overproduction of sebum, which is the oily substance that clogs pores and can lead to breakouts. The chemicals in e-cigarettes can also disrupt the skin’s microbiome also contributing to the development of acne flares.

“Another condition that is clearly impacted by vaping is rosacea –a chronic condition that causes redness and inflammation on the face. Vaping aggravates rosacea due to the presence of chemicals and irritants in e-cigarettes. The nicotine in vapes – like cigarettes –causes blood vessels to constrict, leading to a worsening of rosacea symptoms.

“While studies are currently quite limited, there are also viable scientific suggestions that vaping triggers rosacea flare-ups and may even make existing rosacea symptoms worse.

“It should come as no surprise that vaping also can result in premature ageing and the development of fine lines and wrinkles. The chemicals in e-cigarettes are known to cause oxidative stress, damaging collagen and elastin which are the proteins that keep skin firm and youthful looking.

“I can confidently state as a fact that vaping spurs dull and uneven complexion – just as cigarettes do. Over time, this contributes to the development of fines and wrinkles.

“Even the dreaded ‘smoker’s lips’ side effect of cigarette smoking is showing in those who vape. This is the formation of vertical perioral lines around the lips simply due to an overuse of the muscle to purse your lips to a vape,” says Isabella.

When it comes to reversing the impacts of vaping on the skin, Isabella says this may not be possible.

“Obviously, avoiding smoking and vaping altogether is my recommendation for radiant and healthy skin; but for those who do vape, I’d suggest keeping yourself hydrated and eating a healthy diet as a means of limiting the impacts of vaping. Of course, using sunscreen daily is also a must,” adds Isabella.

Isabella Loneragan holds a Bachelor of Behavioural Health Science & Psychology, with a Diploma in Beauty Therapy and Dermal Science.

Award-winning and internationally trained with more than 15 years of experience in dermatology and cosmeceuticals, Isabella is the creator of Ragan Skin and is renowned for her offering of bespoke intuitive facial treatments, including her master treatments: The Intrinsic Facial and The Intrinsic Illumination Infusion. Isabella operates a private clinic called Isabella Loneragan Skin located in Bowral and Sydney.

@isabellaloneragan

The Vital Role of Ribosomes in Mitochondria and Skin Cells .

By Gay Wardle

Ribosomes are essential molecular machines within cells, they are responsible for protein synthesis. They are found in all cell types, including the mitochondria and skin cells, They play a crucial role in cellular function and health.

The composition of Ribosomes is made up of ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and proteins.

A subunit is a distinct component of a larger complex, often a protein complex. In the context of ribosomes, a subunit refers to one of the two structural units that come together to form the complete ribosome. Ribosomes are made up of two subunits, each with its own specific roles and characteristics The two subunits are - small subunit is 40S in eukaryotes and the large subunit 60S in eukaryotes.

What is the function of Ribosomes?

The role of Ribosomes is to translate messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins by facilitating the binding of transfer RNA (tRNA) and the incorporation of amino acids into the growing polypeptide chain.

For the Ribosomes to be able to translate messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins involves several key steps. These steps are Initiation, Elongation, and Termination.

Let`s take a look at each of these three parts to each step.

Initiation – Formation of the Initiation Complex:

1. mRNA Binding: The small ribosomal subunit binds to the mRNA at the 5’ end. In eukaryotes, this process involves recognition of the 5’ cap structure of the mRNA. In prokaryotes, the ribosome binds to a specific sequence called the Shine-Dalgarno sequence.

2. Initiator tRNA: A special initiator tRNA, carrying the amino acid methionine (in eukaryotes) or formylmethionine (in prokaryotes), binds to the start codon (AUG) on the mRNA. This initiator tRNA binds to the P (peptidyl) site of the small ribosomal subunit.

3. Assembly of the Ribosome: The large ribosomal subunit then joins the complex, forming the complete ribosome. This assembly creates three sites within the ribosome: the A (aminoacyl) site, the P (peptidyl) site, and the E (exit) site.

Elongation – Amino Acid Incorporation:

1. tRNA Entry: A tRNA carrying the next amino acid in the sequence binds to the A site of the ribosome. This tRNA has an anticodon that is complementary to the mRNA codon at the A site.

2. Peptide Bond Formation: The ribosome catalyses the formation of a peptide bond between the amino acid attached to the tRNA in the P site and the amino acid attached to the tRNA in the A site. This reaction transfers the growing polypeptide chain to the tRNA in the A site.

3. Translocation: The ribosome moves one codon down the mRNA in a process called translocation. This shifts the tRNA in the A site to the P site and the tRNA in the P site to the E site, where it is released from the ribosome. The A site is now free to accept the next tRNA.

Termination – Completion of Translation:

1. Stop Codon Recognition: When a stop codon (UAA, UAG, or UGA) is encountered on the mRNA, no corresponding tRNA binds to the A site.

2. Release Factors: Release factors bind to the ribosome, prompting the release of the polypeptide chain from the tRNA in the P site.

3. Disassembly: The ribosomal subunits, mRNA, and release factors dissociate, ready to participate in another round of translation.

These steps collectively ensure the accurate translation of genetic information from mRNA into a functional protein, essential for cellular activities.

Ribosome production and the Nucleus.

The nucleus plays a crucial role in the production of ribosomes. The nucleolus, a specialized region within the nucleus, is the site where ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is transcribed, and ribosome assembly begins. Within the nucleolus, genes encoding rRNA are transcribed by RNA polymerase I to produce large precursor rRNA molecules. Once the ribosomal subunits are assembled, they are transported out of the nucleus through the nuclear pores into the cytoplasm. In the cytoplasm, the small and large subunits join together during translation to form functional ribosomes.

In summary, the nucleus, and more specifically the nucleolus, is the site of ribosome biogenesis. It orchestrates the production and initial assembly of ribosomal subunits, which are essential for protein synthesis in the cytoplasm. Therefore, while ribosomes do not have a direct function in the nucleus, the nucleus is indispensable for their creation and proper functioning.

Functions of Mitochondrial Ribosomes.

Mitochondrial ribosomes are responsible for translating the 13 essential protein-coding genes encoded by the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). These proteins are integral components of the oxidative phosphorylation system.

The proteins synthesized by mitoribosomes are crucial for the assembly and function of the respiratory chain complexes (Complex I, III, IV, and V) within the inner mitochondrial membrane. The proteins produced by mitoribosomes include subunits of ATP synthase (Complex V), which is responsible for the production of ATP through oxidative phosphorylation. ATP is the primary energy currency of the cell. Mitoribosomes synthesize proteins that are part of the electron transport chain, which creates a proton gradient across the inner mitochondrial membrane. This gradient drives the synthesis of ATP.

By synthesizing key proteins, mitoribosomes help maintain the integrity and function of the mitochondrial genome. This is essential for the replication and expression of mitochondrial DNA. Mitoribosomes allow mitochondria to adapt to varying cellular energy demands. Under conditions that require increased energy production, mitoribosomes can enhance the synthesis of mitochondrial proteins to meet the higher energy requirements.

The primary functions of ribosomes in the mitochondria are centred around the synthesis of proteins that are essential for mitochondrial function, energy production, and overall cellular metabolism. These functions are critical for maintaining the health and efficiency of eukaryotic cells, as mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell, providing the necessary energy for various cellular processes.

The Rough Endoplasm Reticulum.

Ribosomes on the rough ER are responsible for synthesizing proteins that are destined for secretion out of the cell, incorporation into the cell membrane, or delivery to lysosomes. These proteins typically have a signal sequence at their N-terminus, which directs the ribosome to the ER membrane. This sequence is recognized by the signal recognition particle (SRP), which pauses translation and directs the ribosome to the ER. Once the ribosome-SRP complex binds to the SRP receptor on the ER membrane, the ribosome resumes translation, and the growing polypeptide chain is translocated into the lumen of the ER through a protein-conducting channel called the translocon. Within the ER, the nascent proteins undergo proper folding and post-translational modifications, such as glycosylation and disulfide bond formation, which are essential for their function and stability.

By localizing ribosomes to the ER, the cell ensures that proteins entering the secretory pathway are immediately in the right location for proper processing and sorting. Proteins that are integral membrane proteins are inserted directly into the ER membrane during translation, facilitating their correct orientation and insertion. The ER contains quality control mechanisms to ensure that only properly folded proteins proceed along the secretory pathway. Misfolded proteins are retro-translocated to the cytoplasm for degradation by the proteasome. Molecular chaperones within the ER assist in the proper folding and assembly of newly synthesized proteins.

The key differences between, Mitochondrial Ribosomes, Endoplasm Ribosomes and Nucleus Ribosomes are: Mitochondrial Ribosomes have a unique structure where they are smaller and have a higher protein-to-RNA ratio. They synthesize proteins encoded by mitochondrial DNA that are essential for mitochondrial function, particularly components of the electron transport chain and ATP synthase. They Translates mitochondrial mRNA into proteins critical for energy production through oxidative phosphorylation.

Endoplasmic Reticulum Ribosomes are attached to the cytoplasmic side of the rough endoplasmic reticulum. They are part of the larger cytoplasmic ribosomal pool; indistinguishable from free ribosomes in terms of structure. They Synthesize proteins that are destined for secretion, incorporation into the cell membrane, or delivery to lysosomes. They are Involved in co-translational translocation where nascent polypeptides are directly translocated into the ER lumen for proper folding, modification, and sorting.

Nucleus and Ribosome are not found functioning within the nucleus, but the nucleus (specifically the nucleolus) is crucial for ribosome biogenesis. The nucleolus within the nucleus is the site where ribosomal RNA (rRNA) is transcribed, and initial ribosomal subunit assembly begins. Precursor rRNA is processed and combined with ribosomal proteins imported from the cytoplasm to form ribosomal subunits. Ribosomal subunits are exported to the cytoplasm where they combine to form functional ribosomes involved in cytoplasmic and rough ER-associated protein synthesis.

Conclusion:

Mitochondria are indispensable for skin health due to their roles in energy production, metabolic activities, ROS management, apoptosis regulation, cellular signalling, stem cell maintenance, and barrier function. Proper mitochondrial function ensures that skin cells have the energy and resources needed for growth, repair, and protection, ultimately contributing to overall skin health and appearance. Understanding and maintaining mitochondrial health is thus crucial for healthy, youthful skin.

@gaywardle

From Breakouts to Breakdowns!

By James Vivian

This one is for my fellow business owners. Those of us who decided, for better or for worse, to go it alone. Those of us who knew that we would not be fulfilled by following the rules of others and that creating something to call our own was our life-long calling.

Firstly, I see you. I hear you. And I want you to know how proud I am of you for coming this far. It’s essential that we all take a moment to realise the impact that our hard work has had. The fact that a client chooses to come to any one of our businesses and take our advice is an extraordinary accomplishment.

This year, I celebrate 15 years owning my own business. 15 years of sleepless nights, backbreaking labour, moving twice as quickly, performing the role of HR, marketer, accountant, front desk, therapist and cleaner all in one.

For every single one of us, our journey into business ownership is unique. What is even more unique is how we navigate the twists and turns that every new day brings in terms of clients, global pandemics, cashflow, staffing, social media and beyond.

If you had of asked me what I attribute my success to (and when I say success I am referring to my version of success, which is unique to all of us) five years ago, I would have said time. Time to build a clientele, time to establish a reputation, time to establish a signature aesthetic and a signature treatment menu.

Whilst I do still believe very much in the power of time when it comes to establishing a business, as well as the power of exponential growth, what I now say I owe success to…is hard bloody work!

Introducing the title of my memoir…From Breakouts to Breakdowns.

What would yours be?

The breakouts are the pus filled, inflamed, inconvenient and confidence destroying pimples that our clients come to see us for, as well as other blemishes and concerns that our clients seek out our help for and that keep us on our toes. With each new breakout we learn a little more about ourselves, our abilities and the lengths that we will go to be there for our clients.

The breakdowns are often not so obvious to the naked eye. They’re the ones that, if you’re like me, you keep to yourself. I do love the duck metaphor - gliding seamlessly and gracefully across the water, whilst their legs are kicking below the surface at a rapid pace to keep them afloat and alive. I have a love/hate relationship

with my breakdowns because without them I wouldn’t have my breakthroughs but sometimes I do wonder…at what cost? Could I have achieved more if I had not put myself in these chronic situations of stress and overwhelm. Or are they the very reason that I am where I am today?

When it comes to breakdowns, there are 3 that really come to mind.

The first breakdown was rather early on and you could say the ripple effect of this breakdown did rear its ugly head again and again as sadly I continued to repeat these bad habits, or as I called them up until recently, a typical day at the clinic. It was the cumulative effect of waking up at 2AM to get to the clinic, to clean it from the day before, to package mail orders, to respond to emails from the day before that you didn’t get to because you were with clients from 9AM –9PM, to order retail, to prepare for a full day of clients from 9AM – 9PM. If this is you now, my only advice here is to begin to learn the art of delegation ASAP.

The second was when I set up our Sydney location. After travelling to Sydney from Melbourne every 6 weeks for approximately 5 years, visiting clients at their homes or offices, I decided it was time to set up a second location for clients to visit and to invest in some machinery to enhance their results.

One rainy morning in Melbourne, I packed a 4.5 tonne truck with furniture I had procured and drove said truck to Sydney in a day. By the time we arrived in Sydney, the truck was already late to be returned so we carried all the furniture up the thinnest, steepest external staircase in Sydney as it poured with rain. Luckily, the noise from the rain drowned out the profanity coming out of my mouth and the tears coming out of my eyes.

And whilst this seemed like the worst part, it was the ongoing pressures and sleepless nights that went along with running a clinic from another state that eventually led to me shutting it down and realising that a single location was more than enough for me to handle.

The third most recent breakdown was when we came out of the final lockdown in Melbourne. It was as if the skincare gods had finally blessed us with a run of uninterrupted appointments and

a glimpse of what normality looked it. However, for me, it was the first moment that I had actually stopped since the first mention of the word COVID 19. Even though our doors were closed, as someone with no children or dependants, I threw myself into doing everything I could to keep our clinic ticketing along, our staff employed and our clients cared for. The personal and professional motivation to keep busy kept the adrenaline and inspiration pumping daily but I fell into a heap when this way of working was no longer needed. It seemed like the world was celebrating but I had forgotten how to be part of this world. I began to see a psychiatrist to explore these feelings and I came out with an ADHD diagnosis which to my partner and friends was no surprise at all.

This topic is top of mind for me as I am writing a presentation for a talk I have been asked to do on ‘Building your clinic’s signature. I have titled this talk ‘An accidental journey’ as I believe our signature is a reflection of all the trials and errors that have been part of the last 15 years (and even earlier than that). I will share more about this in BB’s next issues but until then, here’s to less breakouts and less breakdowns!

@jamesvivian

TOUCH OF BLACK

Hydraulic Beauty Bed - BLACK

Features :

• Bed swivels for easy access to customer

• Reclining backrest and legrest

• Lies flat

• Sleek black design

• Comfortable cushioned surface

• Sturdy construction

• Removable arms

Hydraulic lift system adjusts the bed's height

• Perfect for busy professionals and daily use

Clem 4 Drawer Hairdressing Beauty Trolley

Features:

• Unique design

• Easy Rolling Wheels

• 3 x Deep Flat Mesh Shelves

• 100% Steel Construction

• Black Sturdy Body (also available in white)

• Large Removable Bowl - Hooks on from the side

MINIMALIST BEAUTY

Facial Steamer With Ozone - BLACK

Features : The oxygen ionic vapours has the function of sterilising & cleaning Promotes better blood circulation

• Auto shut-off when water level is low

• Separate ozone switch

• Twistable arm features

Ivy Professional Make Up Chair

Features : Foldable

• Portable

• Light weight

• 2 x Folding Side Tables

• Removable Brush organiser

• Flat Reinforced aluminium tubing

• Washable polyester fabric (Accessories not included)

Twin Towel Warmer - BLACK

Features:

• Features a built-in thermostat

• Removable towel grills

• Convenient doors for easy access

• Two compartments

• Provides a constant warm towels for clients

• Holds and warms up to 48 standard size towels

Navigating Client Expectations and Achieving Skin Progress. Mastering the Art as a Skin Therapist.

By Alanna Douglas

Dear fellow skin therapists, Let’s dive into a challenge we know all too well: clients expecting miraculous transformations overnight. You know the ones—the ones who want to wake up looking like they’ve spent a month at a spa after just one treatment session.

First Understanding Client Expectations

When clients feel their skin isn’t progressing as quickly as they hoped, it’s crucial to remind ourselves that it’s not a reflection of our skills. It’s about managing their expectations and helping them understand the reality of achieving healthier skin.

Positioning Yourself as the Expert

Here’s how you can confidently handle these situations:

1. Educate and Enlighten: Break it down for them—great skin doesn’t happen overnight. It takes commitment, consistency, and a killer skincare routine. Take the time to educate them on the natural process of skin rejuvenation and set realistic timelines for improvement. Hint * I find it helpful to show past transformations so they have a visual to give them an idea of what they can achieve.

2. Empathy Matters: Show empathy for their frustrations. Listen actively to their concerns and reassure them that you’re committed to their skin goals. Sometimes, a listening ear can go a long way in easing their impatience.

3. Goals: Realistic and Achievable: Collaborate with them to set goals that are both realistic and achievable based on their skin type and concerns. Emphasize the importance of patience and sticking to the plan for sustainable results.

4. Patience and Persistence: Encourage them to trust the process. Remind them that skincare isn’t a sprint—it’s a marathon. Consistency with treatments and skincare products tailored to their needs will yield the best outcomes in the long run.

Prioritising Skin Health

Above all, reassure your clients that every decision you make is in the best interest of their skin health. Whether it’s advising them to take a break from treatments because what you can offer them isn’t what they want or suggesting alternative approaches, your focus remains on achieving optimal skin health, not just immediate results.

Empowering Clients with Choices

Lastly, empower your clients by giving them options. If they’re feeling discouraged or unsure about the progress, discuss alternative treatments or adjustments to their current plan. Let them feel in control of their skincare journey while benefiting from your expertise and guidance.

Navigating client expectations in the realm of skincare requires finesse, empathy, and a dose of realism. By educating, empathising, and empowering our clients, we not only manage their expectations effectively but also strengthen our role as trusted skincare professionals.

Keep shining bright,

With love,

Alanna Douglas

Skin Freak Academy www.skinfreakacademy.com.au hello@skinfreakacademy.com

WHITE

Clean, contemporary, and oh-so-dreamy, white interiors have the industry in a spin. Pick your favourite salon essentials featuring the classic colour made for beauty salons.

Customised compounding with over 40 active serums

Unlock the power of personalised skincare with our advanced compounding technology. Craft custom formulations in minutes, ensuring superior results for every client, every time.

By Louise May

Dr. Geoffrey Heber is one of Australia’s leading cosmetic physicians. In 1988, he established Australia’s first specialised non-surgical cosmetic medical practice, Heber Davis Skin Clinic, in Sydney.

At that time, dedicated cosmetic clinics were an uncommon concept, both in Australia and internationally.

Dr. Heber, like so many of his clients, grew up under the harsh Australian sun. By his mid 30’s signs of sun damage were already beginning to show on his skin, and he was unable to find any products that would effectively improve its condition. He’d also observed over time that the retail products his clients were using were largely ineffective for their signs of sun damage and other skin concerns and that marketing claims for these products were often exaggerated. He recognised the need for more powerful and effective professionally recommended skincare based on effective levels of proven active ingredients with claims that could be trusted. So, in 1998, Ultraceuticals was founded...

Beauty Biz Editor Louise May chats with Dr Heber about his journey and the Ultraceuticals brand.

Dr. Heber, your longstanding career in the skincare industry is truly inspiring. Can you share the story of your journey, and what inspired you to establish Ultraceuticals?

I co-owned one of the very first cosmetic medical practices in Australia. I used to attend conferences in the USA frequently and saw presentations of the first scientific research on alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) ingredients. These ingredients had true anti-aging effects on the skin. At this time, a large multinational cosmetic company launched an AHA product that contained a very low concentration of a previously unknown AHA. The formulation of this product was not consistent with the expert dermatological research on AHAs that had been presented and published up to this time. I believed that If people purchased this product to deliver AHA results, they would be disappointed.

People should be able to trust and believe in cosmetic companies, the products they market, the claims they make for them and the delivery of what they promise. I founded Ultraceuticals based on these principles.

What makes Ultraceuticals unique and different to other brands on the market?

We are an Australian-formulated and owned brand established 25 years ago. We develop unique formulations in our own lab with our in-house PhD scientists. Many other companies use contract chemists who formulate for many other companies.

Our unique formulas combine sophisticated delivery systems and proven active ingredients to optimise efficacy and target key skin concerns. We research and use the optimal levels of the independently proven, most effective active ingredients. We believe in taking a progressive, not aggressive, approach to skincare. Our product range and treatments allow personalised regimens to be curated for all skin types and cosmetic skin issues.

We clinically test our formulations for effectiveness for two to three months on skin that has been exposed to the Australian sun to ensure exceptional results. We don’t rely on ingredient suppliers’ testing, like most companies, because in different formulations, ingredients might not be delivered to the skin or work effectively. Also, ingredient suppliers are in the business of selling ingredients.

We’re distributed through a network of Ultraceuticals-trained skin professionals who provide advice on personalised skincare regimens, what to expect from them and how to use products that may be recommended. They can monitor progress and adjust regimens to adapt to their client’s skin needs. Also, our skin professionals offer Ultraceuticals treatments using our ingredient penetration-enhancing Sonobooster device, such as performance facials, no-downtime peels and microdermabrasion, all of which accelerate and boost the results of our homecare.

We are Proven, Personal, and Powerful.

Your brand prides itself on being customer-oriented, with phenomenal local support. How do you organise and manage your customer service teams to provide such personalised support?

At Ultraceuticals, exceptional customer service is our top priority. We are dedicated to meeting our guests’ needs in every way possible by providing direct expert advice and personalised recommendations. Addressing our guests’ concerns is central to our mission. We not only offer immediate support but also cultivate enduring customer relationships.

We understand that each customer experience is unique. Our brand is defined by its personal and professional approach. Understanding our customers’ concerns and needs remains our foremost commitment, ensuring they receive expert support throughout their personalised skincare journey.

Our guests can access expert support through various channels, including our online chat service, call service, dedicated advice email, and complimentary skin consultations.

Ultraceuticals is known for its knowledgeable customer support and extensive global education and training programs. Can you tell us more about these initiatives and how they contribute to the brand’s reputation and customer satisfaction?

We are a very customer-centric business and pride ourselves on our customer support. We place our end users, clinics and salons at the forefront.

We are dedicated to developing and nurturing our partners’ skills through a range of education options. Our blended learning strategy includes the Ultraceuticals Hub, a 24/7 learning and communication platform. This online portal offers self-paced microlearning modules and courses as well as on-demand education webinars.

We support our clinics with an Ultraceuticals certification program where they can complete three levels of training – Ultra Advisor, Ultra Pro & Ultra Pro Advanced. Upon successful completion of all three levels, the trainee is recognised as an Ultra Skin Pro. In-clinic training is also provided to help our partners choose the best products and treatments to address their clients’ concerns. In addition, we have Monthly Hours of Power, which are one-on-one or small group workshops to educate our partners further.

Can you also give us an insight to the role of your global education ambassador Tracey Beeby, what does her role entail?

As an official Ultraceuticals spokesperson, Tracey is regularly interviewed by many local and international media and key opinion leaders for her expert tips on all things skin. Her interviews range from consumer publications such as Vogue Magazine, Marie Claire Magazine, and Elle Magazine to Trade Publications such as Professional Beauty, SKIN inc, and Dermascope.

As part of the global education team, Tracey assists in developing our online learning platform and face-to-face seminars, which train educators, aestheticians and our clinic partners globally.

Tracey’s passion lies in helping consumers achieve results they love with skincare and treatments that deliver this. She is instrumental in researching, creating, and trialling innovative and results-driven signature skin treatments that she rolls out around the globe to Ultraceuticals’ clinic and salon partners.

Ultraceuticals remains at the forefront of innovation. Can you talk to us about your R&D team?

The R&D team participates in the new product and treatment ideation process and development of the Product Directions brief. They then supervise all the processes up to our manufacturers’ production of a pilot batch of a new product. Most people would not be aware of the steps in a world-class product development process. Depending upon the product, some are ingredient research and sourcing, international regulatory affairs compliance, trial formulations, pilot efficacy trials, reformulation if necessary, stability testing, preservative efficacy testing, in-house feedback from staff, trialling by 50 external people for feedback on the physical qualities of the formulation, clinical testing on 20 to 30 people over 3 months, dermatological testing, ophthalmologic testing for products to be used around the eyes, sensitive skin testing, packaging compatibility testing and senior staff sign-off.

Some of our R&D team members have international experience in cosmetic chemistry and formulation. Currently, three have PhDs from UNSW and one from the University of Manchester in the UK. We are sponsoring another member who is doing an MSc at UNSW. We have a support chemist and occasionally interns who are completing university courses.

We are committed to delivering at least two new retail and one new professional treatment yearly, but we sometimes launch more.

With you still leading Ultraceuticals, the brand continues to exude credibility and passion. How do you maintain your enthusiasm and leadership in the company, and what motivates you to keep pushing the boundaries in skincare?

I’m driven by the satisfaction of having a large body of salon and clinic partners incorporating Ultraceuticals into their businesses and being involved in a company with the products, treatments, education, growth and development partners, marketing, customer service and other support services to help them succeed. I enjoy being a part of that success.

Skincare is a fast-moving industry, and developments occur at a rapid pace. I enjoy keeping up with them, whether it be new technology, trends, scientific discoveries or other developments, and evaluating what we can apply to our business.

Our staff is a pleasure to work with. I am continually inspired by their skills in their particular fields and how Ultraceuticals would not be a success without them.

www.ultraceuticals.com.au @ultraceuticals

Global Education Ambassador, Tracey Beeby

Chief Marketing Officer Louise Chamberlain

CEO, Andrew Dingle

Dr Geoffrey Heber

THE BRAND

Today marks a ground-breaking milestone in the world of professional skincare, as Maria Enna-Cocciolone, the esteemed founder of INSKIN COSMEDICS, founder of O COSMEDICS and GINGER&ME, completes her trilogy of home brands, with the launch of INSKIN.CO. INSKIN.CO offers a comprehensive range of cosmedical skincare products, formulated to provide accessible, evidence-based solutions for radiant, healthy skin all with all products having an RRP of $55 (exclusive of the starter kits, valued at RRP $135).

Founder Maria Enna-Cocciolone expressed her excitement about the launch stating, “My goal is to give professional skin clinics a buffet of active ingredients that are clinically proven and will cover every patient’s budget and skin needs, I believe that with the launch of INSKIN.CO, this goal is now a tangible reality, poised to revolutionise the skincare industry”

At the heart of INSKIN.CO lies a commitment to simplicity without compromise on efficacy. The product lineup epitomises the brand’s ethos of minimal beauty and scientific prowess, offering a curated selection of cleansers, serums, hydrators, and masks that can be used across the ages. Each formulation is crafted to deliver tangible results, embodying the brand’s mantra of being ‘simple, but not basic.’

The INSKIN.CO range has been designed with sustainability in mind, prioritising recyclable packaging to minimise environmental impact and promote eco-conscious practices throughout the skincare journey.

CLEANSE & EXFOLIATE

Foaming Enzyme Cleanser

A gentle foaming cleanser fortified with Mango, Pumpkin, and Pomegranate Enzymes, designed to cleanse, gently exfoliate, hydrate, and prepare the skin for actives. Perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin, thanks to the anti-inflammatory benefits of Aloe Vera and Vitamin B5. Ideal for those seeking a bright, clear, and radiant complexion.

Powder Cleanser & Exfoliant

An innovative, water-free powder cleanser fortified with PHAs and Enzymes, gently exfoliating to balance the skin’s microbiome and oil flow, thereby supporting barrier function, and improving hydration. Designed for aging and hyperpigmentation concerns.

CORRECTIVE SERUMS

Arbutin & B3 Serum

This water-based serum is enriched with Arbutin and Niacinamide to lighten discoloration, prevent hyperpigmentation, boost immunity, and hydration, promoting a brighter and more even complexion. Perfect for those concerned with uneven tone, hyperpigmentation, and dullness.

Tremella & B3 Serum

Featuring Silver Mushroom, a natural Hyaluronic Acid, and Niacinamide, this water-based serum boosts water retention, improves barrier function, enhances skin immunity, and defends against external aggressors for a calmer and more hydrated complexion. Ideal for the most dehydrated skin types seeking powerful antioxidant protection.

Bakuchiol & B3 Serum

A water-based serum fortified with Bakuchiol and Niacinamide to refine skin texture, smooth lines, and wrinkles, regulate pigment, and oil flow for smoother, more balanced, and hydrated skin. Suitable for those combating signs of aging and UV damage, including pregnant and breastfeeding individuals.

Vitamin D & B5 Serum

This water-based serum contains Vitamins D and B5 to soothe and de-stress the skin, enhancing natural antioxidants and improving water retention for a calmer, hydrated complexion. Ideal for addressing redness, sensitivity, and hydration concerns.

Maria Enna-Cocciolone

Vitamin C Serum

Featuring a 20% Vitamin C Complex, this water-based serum supports collagen and elastin production, brightens dull skin, evens out skin tone, and provides free radical protection for a brighter, plumper, and more radiant complexion.

Multi-Active & BHA Serum

Fortified with AHAs, BHAs, and Azeloglicina, this water-based serum exfoliates, kills bacteria, decongests pores, and improves skin texture for a smoother, clearer, and more balanced complexion. Ideal for addressing skin roughness, congestion, breakouts, and excessive oil flow.

HYDRATORS

Liquid Hydrator

Infused with Hyaluronic Acid, Ceramides, and Jojoba Esters, this lightweight hydrator provides hydration with a barely-there after-feel. Perfect for moisturizing without adding excess oil.

Gel Cream Hydrator

This medium-weight gel-cream hydrator contains calming, soothing actives blended with Hyaluronic Acid to reduce redness, sensitivity, and hydrate the skin. Ideal for those needing calming, soothing, and moisture with a light to medium consistency preference.

Blemish Control Cream

Formulated with natural antibacterial and soothing actives, this lotioncream hydrator controls congested skin while maintaining hydration levels. Designed for those suffering from breakouts, acne, redness, and associated dehydration.

MASKS

Calm & Soothe Daily Sheet Mask

Infused with calming and soothing actives, this daily sheet mask promotes a calm, hydrated complexion. 30 masks for daily use, in one sustainable container, eliminating individual sachets.

Plump & Hydrate Daily Sheet Mask

This daily sheet mask is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and other hydrating ingredients to plump and hydrate the skin for a radiant, youthful glow. 30 masks for daily use, in one sustainable container, eliminating individual sachets.

THE NOT SO BASIC KITS

A simple way to cover all your basics, the INSKIN.CO Simple But Not Basic Skin Kits are purposefully curated to target your skin needs, taking the guesswork out of your skin health prescription with four skin specific, tailored Kits: Renew, Calm, Bright, and Clear.

Unzip three meticulously crafted basic essentials, fortified with a buffet of clinically proven active botanical ingredients, in Renew for textured, aging and dull skins; Calm for sensitive, dehydrated and irritated skins; Bright for hyperpigmentation, devitalised and uneven skin tone and Clear for breakouts, congestion and blemishes.

THE FOUNDER

INSKIN.CO is a cosmedical skincare brand founded by Maria EnnaCocciolone, the visionary entrepreneur behind INSKIN COSMEDICS. With a focus on accessible beauty and evidencebased solutions, INSKIN.CO offers a range of clean, targeted skincare products designed to enhance skin health and radiance. Embracing the philosophy of “simple, but not basic,” INSKIN.CO empowers individuals to achieve their best skin through scientific excellence and minimal beauty.

www.inskinco.com

Investing in You: Circadia Australia Makes Quality Skincare Accessible Amid Economic Challenges.

In a bold move that defies industry norms, Circadia Australia is shaking up the skincare industry by rethinking the traditional high opening orders.

At a time when economic challenges are making it harder for small businesses to thrive, Circadia Australia is taking a different approach to support skincare professionals across the country. By revising their previous stance on high opening order requirements, they are making advanced skincare solutions more accessible and listening to the needs of the market.

Quality Skincare Within Reach

Circadia Australia has announced a significant reduction in their opening order requirements, making their advanced skincare solutions more accessible than ever. For a limited time leading up to the Beauty Expo, skincare professionals can access Circadia’s premier range from $935.50. This move is not just a sale; it’s a testament to Circadia’s commitment to supporting small businesses.

CEO Rachael Stevens and Managing Director Phil Stevens, who began their journey in their humble garage, deeply understand the challenges faced by small business owners. “We know how tough it can be,” says Rachael Stevens. “That’s why we’ve decided to lower our opening orders. We believe in the power of quality education and the potential of every skincare professional. By reducing the initial investment, we’re making sure that more therapists can access our premium products and the comprehensive training offered through Circadia University.”

Empowering Through Education

Circadia Australia’s commitment to education is evident in their extensive resources and training programs. The Circadia University Program is designed to equip skin therapists with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the industry. This focus on education ensures that every therapist, regardless of their starting point, can deliver exceptional results to their clients.

“Our goal is to connect with more therapists who are passionate about upskilling and expanding their expertise,” says Phil Stevens. “Circadia University provides the tools and support needed to help clinics grow from the ground up. We’re not just selling products; we’re investing in the success of our partners.”

Circadia Connect Training: The Ultimate Skincare Experience

This commitment to education and support will be on full display at the upcoming Circadia Connect Training event, set to return to the Hilton Sydney for its second year. Building on the success of last year’s sold-out event, this year promises to be even bigger and better. Skincare professionals can look forward to an immersive experience featuring industry legends, innovative product launches and invaluable networking opportunities.

Renowned Global and Nationally famed speakers such as Michael Q. Pugliese and Gay Wardle will provide insights into the latest trends and techniques in skincare. Attendees will benefit from the expertise of marketing genius Paul Heslop, who will discuss strategies to elevate business visibility and Skin Nerd, Kris Astroff, who will delve into the science of skincare, covering topics such as Vitamins ACDE and Oxygen treatments. Additionally, attendees will be among the first to see Circadia’s newest innovation, the Alpha Gel Mask + Powders. This product empowers skincare professionals to tailor treatments precisely to each client’s unique skin needs, revolutionising the facial experience through mixology.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This

Circadia Connect Training is more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to elevate your practice, connect with industry leaders and gain exclusive access to cutting-edge products. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this event offers the knowledge, tools and inspiration needed to succeed in the competitive skincare landscape.

Secure

Your Spot Today

Tickets for Circadia Connect Training are limited and expected to sell quickly. Secure your ticket to Circadia Connect 2024 today.

For more information contact the Circadia Australia team directly. sales@circadia.com.au www.circadia.com.au @circadia_aus

A Commitment to Excellence and Innovation !

By Louise May

As we navigate through 2024, Derma Aesthetics has put a spotlight on dermaviduals and SIMKA, two prominent brands within our portfolio, both known for their commitment to excellence and innovation. This year marks a significant milestone for both brands as we introduce several groundbreaking products.

dermaviduals, renowned for its bespoke compounded skincare solutions, has launched a series of innovative products designed to cater to the evolving needs of skincare enthusiasts and professionals alike. With a focus on science-backed formulations and promoting optimal skin health, dermaviduals aims to enhance the skin health of its clientele, ensuring optimal care for diverse skin types.

Key launches for dermaviduals in 2024 include:

- Individual Lotion: This product provides intensive moisturisation, maintaining skin health by enhancing the skin’s natural moisturising factor (NMF). Saccharide Isomerate plays an integral role in enhancing hydration and forming a bond with the skin’s keratin to create a lasting reservoir of moisture.

- Oleogel S: The key ingredient in this product is Phosphatidylserine, a crucial phospholipid that boasts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It enhances moisture retention, prevents water loss, and shields the skin from external irritants. This product is fantastic for ageing, acne, and erythema and is a game-changer for atopic skin barrier disorders.

- Phosphatidylserine Nanoparticles: This powerful phospholipid reduces inflammatory mediators, inhibits collagen degradation, acts as a powerful antioxidant, aids in wound healing, and supports the immune cells of the skin, preserving tissue integrity. It is perfect for the care of ageing, acne, erythema, and atopic skin barrier disorders.

SIMKA’s New Focus:

SIMKA, a key player in the skincare sector, has rapidly expanded following the overwhelming success of our SIMKA launch in August 2023, with the introduction of the Alpha Omega-3s, we are meeting industry demands for products that support a skinimalism approach with a Corneotherapeutic methodology. SIMKA defends against the two primary factors known to accelerate ageing: external environmental aggressors and internal cellular damage. This year SIMKA will launch several new products designed to promote healthy ageing and enhanced skin protection.

Highlights of SIMKA’s new focus include:

- Cooling and Hydrating Bio-Cellulose Facial and Under Eye Masks: Made from skin-friendly bio-cellulose, these masks deliver intense recovery designed for all skin types and conditions, promoting ultimate barrier repair and microbiome care. These will be available on 1st August.

- SIMKA Invisible Facial Fluid SPF50, SIMKA Sheer Mineral Milk SPF50, and SIMKA Lip Therapy SPF15: Launching in September, these products work with sophisticated sunscreen formulations to protect against harmful UV rays, prevent premature ageing, and reduce the risk of sun related disease. Each formula contains SIMKASHIELD™️ technology, which uses a breakthrough in skincare science, formulated to surpass the limitations of conventional sun protection, blurring the line between sun protection and traditional skincare. It works to address acne, reduce skin inflammation and defends against free radicals that compromise the integrity of the skin.

Looking Ahead:

At Derma Aesthetics, we continue to innovate and expand our reach, focusing on delivering exceptional skincare solutions and fostering a community that values skin health and education. With these exciting launches and initiatives, both brands are poised to make a significant impact in the industry, setting new standards for excellence and customer satisfaction.

For more information go to www.dermaviduals.com.au

Australians Embrace Dermapen HOME™ Unlocking the Future of

Skincare with You as Their Guide

A recent event in Paddington, Sydney, showcased the excitement around Dermapen HOME™ — the best-in-class home microneedling solution from the world’s #1 microneedling company, DermapenWorld™.

Leading skintellectuals, including journalists, influencers, and clinicians, gathered to explore the potential of Dermapen HOME. Here’s the secret participants discovered: it’s not just about the device; having a skin expert there to guide them makes all the difference. “The in-person experience and being taught how to use the Dermapen HOME was extremely beneficial. It has enabled me to feel confident when doing my skin needling at home.” – Matty Mills, TV Presenter, Podcast Host and Actor.

New Era of Skincare

Designed to complement professional Dermapen Treatments™️, the stateof-the-art home microneedling device promises a new era of skincare possibilities. Participants were buzzing with enthusiasm as they discovered how Dermapen HOME can upgrade their current beauty and skincare regimes.

“I can’t believe how much softer my skin feels and how much firmer it looks after only 1 procedure ... it’s pretty amazing! As someone who is constantly fighting the battle against sun damage and pigmentation, I love the idea of being able to do my own microneedling at home,” said Sami Lukis, Journalist, Broadcaster, Podcaster, Author & Columnist currently writing for 9Honey.

Don’t Leave Homecare to Chance

Unlike ordering untested devices online (which may lead to mishandling and even skin damage), the simplicity, safety, and effectiveness of Dermapen HOME procedures instilled confidence in attendees once they experienced an expert walkthrough in person. Recommending Dermapen HOME to patients for the weeks between clinic visits can accelerate their progress towards skin goals. For the discerning skintellectual clients who are doing market research outside your clinic, being able to recommend a trusted home care brand is a game-changer.

“As the owner of The Facial Room Bondi, I can confidently say that the Dermapen HOME device has been a game changer for both our clinic and our clients. Its ease of use is remarkable — targeting a huge array of skin conditions, including dehydration, pigmentation, sun damage and acne. Even those new to skin needling can achieve healthier, more radiant skin, making it the perfect tool for maintaining results between professional procedures,” said Fabienne Rich of the Facial Room in Bondi.

Growth Opportunities

Dermapen HOME isn’t just a device; it’s an opportunity for growth. DermapenWorld delivers a synergy of solutions to its Authorised Treatment Providers. That means you can offer Dermapen HOME as part of a comprehensive plan to get the best results, whether offering professional procedures, facials, peels and Dp Dermaceuticals™️ skincare products. It’s a win-win. Your clinic gets the opportunity to grow, while your clients appreciate your role as the expert.

Fabienne Rich adds, “The feedback from our clients has been overwhelmingly positive, it’s simple to use, pain free and they now have the ability to extend the benefits of their in-clinic procedures in the comfort of their own homes.”

Empowering Patients to Succeed

In the world of skincare, selling a new product goes beyond the technicalities of a physical device or procedure—it’s about selling confidence. Clinicians have a unique opportunity to guide clients in using Dermapen

HOME. By educating and empowering patients, you cement your reputation as a skincare authority they can return to again and again.

As trusted advisors, you enhance clients’ skin and build lasting and valuable relationships based on knowledge and personalised care.

“I’d heard a lot about the benefits of microneedling and was excited to try the Dermapen HOME. My clinician guided me through the process of how to use it, and I was surprised just how easy it was! I did my first home session the other night and my skin responded beautifully. This is something I’ll be incorporating into my regular routine.” – Natasha Young, Model and Television Personality.

Lead Australia’s Skintellectual Movement

As the go-to expert, you’re the bridge between technology and clients. Clients will turn to you for guidance on using Dermapen HOME effectively. You can offer personalised consultations and tailored skincare plans.

Your expertise is invaluable in this market.

Contact your distributor today to learn more about Dermapen HOME. Or visit www.DermapenWorld.com

Unlock the Future of Skincare with

In a rapidly evolving home care microneedling market, Dermapen HOME™ sets the bar for patient safety and efficacy.

New Era of Skincare

The steps to using the Dermapen HOME are as simple as any basic skincare routine, but the benefits are far greater and that’s why it’s become a staple in my skin care routine.

MATTY MILLS, TV Presenter, Podcast Host and Actor

My clinician guided me through the process of how to use it, and I was surprised just how easy it was! I did my first home session the other night and my skin responded beautifully. This is something I’ll be incorporating into my regular routine.

NATASHA YOUNG, Model and Television Personality

Want to Offer Patients the Best?

It’s not just about having the best microneedling device. Your expertise is the key to guiding patients towards achieving radiant skin.

By offering Dermapen HOME in combination with professional procedures, you can:

• Accelerate patient results for glowing testimonials

• Increase revenue with a valuable upsell for each patient

• Attract more business by offering a premium, safe and recognisable brand.

Contact your distributor today to learn more or visit www.Dermapenworld.com

Inspiration, Information and Celebration !

By Jarred Stedman

After 25 years, Ultraceuticals still loves to come together and celebrate its community. This year was no exception, the team designed their Beyond Business Conference to be a few days in Australia’s iconic northern waterfront city, Cairns.

Over 180 Ultraceuticals salon owners and managers flew north to restore and reset at the five-star luxury escape, Crystalbrook Hotel.

With the aim to bring together great minds and create what, Ultraceuticals Founder, Dr Geoffrey Heber, describes as ‘a collective intelligence’.

Following on from the opening party that saw everyone dressed in ‘white and bright’ and setting the stage for a memorable conference, the first day was filled with speakers and awards which Mocha Group’s General Manager Jarred Stedman, was thrilled to cover exclusively as the trade media partner.

Ultraceuticals R&D Director, Dr Shiva Farabi, gave an indepth and truly eye-opening overview of what the Research and Development (R&D) team have been working on and the science that goes into product development from their PHD stacked team.

Mixing in insightfulness and forward-thinking outside the industry, Amanda Stevens, Chris Helder and Jarred Abbott were invited as the keynote speakers.

Covering customer service trends, mindsets of successful people, and personality traits.

With everyone limbered up after their 6am yoga class by the foreshore, all eyeballs and ears were fixed on the big awards. After handing out trophies for 5,10, 15 and 20 years of loyalty with Ultraceuticals to salons from Australia and New Zealand, the next big awards were those salons who had hit the biggest financial goals.

CEO Andrew Dingle took to the stage and interviewed Carla Pizzirani, owner of Face Bar in Tasmania, who was the topperforming salon and had achieved a staggering 20 percent growth in the past 12 months.

Utilising the astonishing natural beauty of Cairns, the obvious option for those who was interested, was to go on a Great Barrier Reef adventure.

What a perfect way to top off this inspiring conference.

Images credit: Chloe Paul and Jarred Stedman

Creating Connections the Key to Success in the Beauty Industry.

By Daniela Boerma

In the ever-evolving beauty industry, establishing strong connections is crucial for success. The ability to form meaningful relationships with clients, fellow professionals, and industry leaders can open doors to endless opportunities. These connections not only enhance personal growth but also contribute to professional advancement. Let’s delve into the benefits of creating connections in the beauty industry and explore effective strategies to foster these relationships.

Creating connections with clients is the cornerstone of success in the beauty industry. By establishing trust, understanding their unique needs, and providing exceptional service, you can build a loyal and satisfied client base. Word of mouth referrals and positive recommendations from satisfied clients can significantly boost your business and reputation. Stay passionate and persistent, reaching success in the beauty industry is a journey that requires passion and persistence. There will be challenges, setbacks, and moments of self-doubt. Stay committed to your goals, even during difficult times. Keep refining your skills, stay updated with industry trends, and remain motivated by your love for the beauty industry. Surround yourself with a support system that encourages and uplifts you. Remember that success is not achieved overnight but is the result of consistent effort and unwavering determination.

Collaborating with other professionals outside of the beauty industry can lead to exciting opportunities. By connecting with makeup artists, hairstylists and other industry experts you can create a network of professionals who complement each other’s skills. Collaborative projects such as workshops or educational events enable you to showcase your expertise, expand your reach and learn from others.

Connections with experienced professionals and industry influencers offer a wealth of knowledge and insights. Engaging in conversations, attending workshops and seeking mentorship opportunities can help you enhance your skills, stay updated with trends and continuously grow as a beauty professional. Learning from the experiences of others can provide invaluable guidance and inspiration.

Forming connections with beauty bloggers, social media influencers, and brand ambassadors, can significantly boost your salons visibility. Collaborating with these individuals can expose your work to a wider audience, leading to increased recognition and potential partnerships with targeted brands.

The beauty industry can be highly competitive and demanding, therefore having a support system within the industry is essential for mental health and overall well-being. Creating connections with like-minded professionals who understand the challenges you face can provide emotional support, encouragement and a sense of belonging. Together you can navigate the ups and downs of the industry and celebrate each other’s successes.

Strategies for Creating Connections

Attend industry events, participate in trade shows, beauty conferences and workshops to meet professionals from various sectors of the beauty industry. These events provide excellent networking opportunities and a chance to learn from industry experts. The more you invest in your learning the more valuable you become in the industry.

Utilise social media, engage with fellow professionals, influencers, and clients through social media platforms. Comment on their posts, share valuable content, and participate in relevant discussions. Social media can be a powerful tool to connect with individuals worldwide and build your online presence.

Become a member of industry specific organisations. These groups host networking events, offer educational resources which can help you connect with professionals.

Collaborate on projects, seek out opportunities to collaborate with other professionals on creative projects. These collaborations not only foster connections but also allow you to showcase your skills and gain exposure.

Be genuine and authentic, when creating connections, authenticity is key. Be genuine in your interactions, show interest in others and offer support whenever possible. Building meaningful relationships is about establishing trust and mutual respect. Embrace the power of connections and unlock a world of possibilities in the beauty industry.

Let’s stay connected!

Daniela Boerma, Director Bliss Day Spa. Master Coach dani@totalcoachingacademy.com

Feel the Love !

By Will Fennell

Maintaining motivation and enthusiasm in our work can be challenging, particularly in today’s competitive and intricate economic landscape. Regularly assessing our strengths and weaknesses, remaining open to change, and seeking feedback from our team, customers, and suppliers are all vital for progress. However, this process can be draining and may intermittently obscure our enthusiasm.

But keeping our passion alive should be a personal goal and a smart business move. It helps us stand out from competitors and attracts clients who want to be part of our energy. Our enthusiasm is infectious and plays a significant role in getting and keeping clients.

Three key things will keep clients coming back for more:

1. The Experience

2. Staying The Expert

3. Feeling The Love

The Experience:

It’s important to note that the salon experience is not solely determined by the design or technology used but by the passion and skill of the therapists. In 1995, when my business partner and I established our first clinic with less than $1000, we prioritised providing an excellent customer experience. This approach proved successful, highlighting the significance of being customer-centric and demonstrating a genuine passion for building a loyal client base. Despite the current trend of relying on high-tech gadgets for the “electrical experience”, incorporating personal touches such as massages is essential. Ultimately, clients remember and value the personal connection and care the most.

Staying The Expert:

Continuous learning and improvement are essential in any successful business. Staying abreast of the latest trends and techniques is critical for beauty industry professionals. Attending relevant courses, reading industry publications, and participating in seminars can help professionals maintain their motivation and passion for their work.

Additionally, visiting other salons to experience their treatments can provide valuable insights into competitors’ offerings. Observing how they interact with clients, the quality of their products, and their staff’s knowledge can offer improvement ideas without directly imitating their practices. It’s crucial to incorporate valuable elements into one’s business, particularly the genuine passion and dedication visible in their operations. Ask yourself, does their love for what they do shine through?

Feeling The Love:

Salons must be strongly connected to the skincare line(s) they use. Salon staff should be knowledgeable about the products, including their history and usage, able to explain what sets them apart and help clients understand why they should choose them.

Once, I visited a salon where a therapist tried to sell me an expensive new skincare cream the clinic was promoting. When I asked if she had used it, she admitted it was “out of her price range.” There are better ways to handle this situation. The salon owner should have allowed her to try the product to see how it worked on her skin and made her feel. How can employees get excited about a new product if they’ve never used it?

In my clinic, we try out all the products to always know what they’re like and share this authentic knowledge with our clients. My therapists LOVE our brand.

The product company I import, BIODROGA, was the first skincare brand I fell in love with at Beauty College. Even 30 years later, it’s still the love of my life (Don’t tell my husband that one) and the brand on which I built my career. I have made BIODROGA a part of my salon’s story; this love and loyalty are essential for your business brand and will be necessary for your success.

You can’t pretend to like a product line – your clients will know if you’re not being genuine. You must genuinely believe in and love the skincare you use and recommend.

So, think about this and change companies if you do not feel the love. Also, don’t just go with a product company because everyone else does or they are the biggest stand at a trade show. Do your research. Be a skincare tramp before you fall in love; that is the secret.

My business partner, Peta Friend, and I are celebrating 30 years of our salon together this year. I have been asked what the secret to our success is. It’s simple.

We feel the love, and that radiates through everything we do. You can’t fake that sort of passion.

Will is an international trainer for Biodroga www.biodroga.com.au @biodroga.truebeauty @willandeta

Cultivating Loyalty: How To Keep Clients Coming Back

By Nicola Le Lievre

“Your customer doesn’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” – Damon Richards.

In our industry’s competitive world, retaining existing clients is just as crucial as attracting new ones. A loyal client base ensures a steady revenue stream and fosters a community of brand ambassadors who can drive new clients to your door.

Below are some tried-and-tested strategies I implemented into my awardwinning business over the past decade to wow clients and keep them coming back.

1. The Warm Welcome – Roll Out the Red Carpet Initial Consultation. This process starts from the initial call/booking. Take the time to understand the client’s preferences and any concerns they might have. This personalised approach helps provide the best service and shows that you care about their needs. First Impressions Matter. A little goes a long way, so pay attention to detail and approach every client with a can-do attitude and a smile. When new clients enter your salon, ensure they feel welcomed and valued. A warm greeting, a comfortable waiting area, and a complimentary beverage can create a positive experience. Ensure your staff is friendly and attentive, ready to cater to the client’s needs.

2. Special Occasions - Going the Extra Mile Birthday Surprises. Send personalised birthday greetings along with a special offer or free service. This thoughtful gesture makes clients feel appreciated and encourages them to treat themselves at your salon. I recommend creating a birthday list at the end of every month for the following: call clients on their birthday to say happy birthday and let them know you have emailed a “gift” to their inbox.

3. Personalised Follow-Up – The Smallest Things Can Make the Biggest Difference

Post-Appointment Thank You. Within 24 hours of their visit, send a personalised thank-you email or message expressing gratitude for their visit, including a summary of the services they received and tips on maintaining their look at home. This reinforces the value of the service they received and keeps your salon in mind. Feedback Request. Encourage clients to share their thoughts on their experiences. Not only does this show that you value their opinion, but it also provides valuable insights into areas where you can improve.

4. Regular Engagement

Monthly Newsletters. Send monthly newsletters with updates on new products, upcoming promotions, and expert tips. Include before-andafter photos of clients (with their permission) to showcase your salon’s expertise. This keeps clients informed and engaged with your brand.

Exclusive Offers. Reward loyalty by offering exclusive discounts or early access to new services for returning clients. These incentives make clients feel special and encourage them to book their next appointment.

5. Educational Content – Create Connection

Educational Workshops. Host regular beauty workshops or webinars where clients can learn new techniques and trends. These events position your salon as an authority in the beauty industry and provide added value to your clients.

How-To Videos. Create short how-to videos on skincare and makeup tips that clients can access online. Share these on your social media channels and website to engage clients between appointments.

6. Social Media Engagement

Active Social Presence. Maintain an active presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Share behind-thescenes content, client transformations, and general tips. Engage with your followers by responding to comments and messages promptly.

Client Spotlights. Feature client spotlights on your social media channels. Share their stories and highlight the services they received. This builds a sense of community and showcases your salon’s work.

7. Loyalty Programs

“Do what you do so well that they will want to see it again and bring their friends” – Walt Disney. Points System. Implement a points-based loyalty program where clients earn points for every visit or product purchase. These points can be redeemed for discounts or free services, encouraging repeat visits. Referral Rewards. Offer referral incentives to clients who bring in new customers. This not only rewards your loyal clients but also helps in attracting new ones through word-of-mouth.

8. Continuous Improvement

Regular Training. Knowledge is power, and regular, structured training is crucial to your team’s development. This ensures everyone is current with any changes or developments within the clinic. This keeps your team skilled and confident, allowing you to provide clients with the best possible service.

Client Feedback – Respond Promptly. Act on the feedback you receive from clients. Whether improving your appointment scheduling system or adding new services, showing that you listen and respond to client needs builds trust and loyalty. With all the different communication channels, I recommend you have a team member delegated to check emails, social media, and voice messages daily so that no messages get missed.

Building strong relationships with existing clients creates a sense of community and trust. Personalised service, remembering preferences, and rewarding loyalty with special discounts or offers can go a long way in making clients feel valued. This emotional connection encourages repeat business and can turn satisfied clients into brand ambassadors.

Go the extra mile; it’s not crowded there.

Are you interested in having me as your mentor?

Book a discovery call via my website www.nicolalelievre.com www.facebook.com/nicola.lievre @nicolalelievre

Discovering Your Values: Nurturing Harmony and Success.

By Rachel Vella

“I’m experiencing burnout and immense stress. My health has deteriorated, and I’m doubting my leadership skills and the future of my business. Keeping all this inside has left me feeling lost and unsure of what to do.”

This sentiment is all too familiar among many business owners in the beauty industry. The constant pursuit of perfection and the pressures we face can take a toll on our well-being. While we focus on building our businesses and teams, it’s crucial to remember the importance of nurturing our ultimate dreams.

Most of us entered the beauty industry with a clear vision and a sense of purpose. However, life’s challenges sometimes lead us astray. Nowadays, running a business has become more demanding. Staff shortages and high expectations from both employees and clients have contributed to overwhelming feelings and struggles to keep everything together.

In the midst of trying to please everyone, we have lost sight of our “why” and struggle to find tranquillity amidst the chaos.

“When I pursue what I want relentlessly, my days become filled with stress and anxiety. However, when I patiently wait in my own space, what I need flows to me effortlessly, without pain. From this, I understand that what I desire also desires me; it seeks me out and draws me near. There is a profound secret here for anyone who can grasp it.” - Rumi

Finding Serenity Amidst the Chaos: Embracing Your Values

Many of us have been operating in survival mode. However, it’s essential to take a moment to be still, connect with ourselves, and revisit our core values – the guiding principles that shape our actions and decisions. It’s important to clarify that when we mention values, we’re not referring solely to our business or organisational values.

While organisational values are significant, we must also delve into our personal values – the ones that give us purpose and set us apart in our work. These values make our endeavours meaningful and help us make a positive impact on the world. Unbeknownst to us, our values already influence our choices subconsciously. But when we consciously uncover and embrace them, they serve as a compass, guiding us away from situations that contradict our beliefs. As a result, our vision becomes clearer, and life becomes more manageable.

Understanding Personal and Organisational Values

Personal or foundational values are those we develop as children, rooted in our core beliefs. They tend to remain relatively stable throughout adulthood, barring significant traumas or life-altering circumstances. On the other hand, organisational or business values are forged through collective agreement and often evolve as team members come and go. They serve as a living blueprint that governs appropriate behaviour, representing the collective will. It is crucial for organisational values to align with our personal or foundational values.

Many businesses make the mistake of focusing solely on organisational values while neglecting their foundational values. They often confuse the two and incorrectly label organisational values as their core values. However, our foundational values are deeply ingrained and unique to our souls, requiring us to uncover them.

When we genuinely uncover and comprehend our values, we experience a newfound sense of calm and clarity. Life begins to align with our desires, effortlessly attracting what resonates with us and repelling what doesn’t. Decision-making becomes more natural, and we naturally gravitate toward individuals who share our values, creating magnetic connections.

By nurturing our values, we can find harmony and achieve success in any thriving and dynamic industry.

@mrsrachelvella

The Future of Skincare: Bridging Science and Beauty.

By standards in the beauty industry and solidifying our role as leaders in this ever-evolving field.

By Michael Q. Pugliese, CEO, Circadia

In the dynamic realm of skincare, staying ahead of the curve means continuously exploring the intricate science behind skin health. As we delve deeper into cellular communication, it becomes clear that understanding these processes is essential for the next wave of innovative skincare solutions. As CEO of Circadia, I’m thrilled to share insights into the fascinating world of cytokines and cell communication, inspired by the foundational work of my grandfather and the advances we’ve made since.

The Intricacies of Cell Communication

The skin is an extraordinary network of cells constantly communicating through various biochemical signals. The most influential of these signals are cytokines, proteins that act as messengers between cells. These tiny but mighty molecules are crucial in regulating the skin’s response to damage, inflammation, and healing.

Cytokines can be categorised into three types based on their range of action:

● Autocrine: These act on the same cell that produces them.

● Paracrine: These influence nearby cells.

● Endocrine: These travel through the bloodstream to distant cells.

The Role of Cytokines in Skincare

Cytokines are not stored in the body but are produced as needed. Various skin cells, including keratinocytes and Langerhans cells, produce an array of cytokines. These molecules influence everything from immune responses to cell growth and repair, making them pivotal in skincare.

For instance, Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGF-β) is a cytokine with multiple roles, including stimulating collagen production and aiding in wound healing. It’s a prime example of how understanding cytokines can lead to better anti-ageing treatments.

Harnessing the Power of Science

As skincare professionals, it’s vital to appreciate the science behind the products we use. With advancements in peptide technology, botanical extracts, and vitamins, we can harness the power of cytokines to create formulations that offer tangible benefits.

Interleukins (IL), another group of cytokines, are particularly interesting. For example, IL-1 and IL-3 are produced by keratinocytes and play significant roles in the skin’s response to UV radiation and injury. By incorporating ingredients that modulate these interleukins, we can enhance the skin’s resilience and repair mechanisms.

The Future of Skincare Formulations

The knowledge of cytokines and cellular communication opens exciting avenues for cosmetic chemists. One promising area is the use of peptides that mimic the action of natural cytokines. These peptides can enhance collagen synthesis, reduce inflammation, and promote cell regeneration.

For instance, Telangyn, a tetrapeptide, has shown effectiveness in reducing redness and inflammation by modulating cytokine activity. Such innovations represent the future of skincare, where science and beauty converge to create products that deliver real, lasting results.

Moving Forward: Education and Innovation

As we advance, it’s crucial for skincare professionals to stay informed about the latest scientific developments. Understanding the mechanisms of action behind new ingredients can elevate our practice and enhance the outcomes for our clients.

At Circadia, we’re committed to bridging the gap between science and skincare. By focusing on the skin’s natural rhythms and the latest research in cellular communication, we aim to develop products that not only improve the skin’s appearance but also its health.

Conclusion: A New Era of Skincare

The journey of exploring cytokines and cell communication is just beginning. As we continue to uncover the complexities of the skin’s biochemical processes, we open doors to more sophisticated and effective skincare solutions.

By embracing science and staying curious, we can lead the industry towards a future where skincare is not just about beauty but also about understanding and enhancing the skin’s natural functions. This holistic approach will ensure that we provide the best care possible for our clients, now and in the years to come.

In conclusion, the future of skincare lies in our ability to integrate scientific knowledge with innovative formulations. By doing so, we can achieve remarkable results, setting new

I’m Gay Wardle, and I’m thrilled to invite you to join the Skin Success Community.

Imagine a place where every month brings new learning, where every question finds an answer, and where every challenge turns into your next big breakthrough. This is what we’ve created just for you.

For more information, visit lp.gwsi.au/skin-success-community

I know it’s so, SO challenging to stay committed to learning and growing in such a fast-paced and ever-evolving industry.

I understand firsthand the struggles you face – the uncertainty in diagnosing skin conditions, the hesitation in prescribing a full regimen of actives, or feeling unsure about the possible outcomes of your consultations.

This is exactly why I created this community: to provide a supportive space where we can tackle these issues together. Through shared experiences, my expert guidance, and practical resources, I aim to boost your confidence, enhance your understanding, and empower you to commit to your professional development with ease. Let’s transform these challenges into opportunities for growth, together

Yours in skin, Gay

What’s Included?

Expert Guidance by Gay

Monthly Deep Dives on Selected Topics & Themes

Continuous Learning

Lives & Guest Speakers

Exclusive Resources

Supportive Community

Individual & Team Plans Available

Art Nail Polish Trolley By Joiken

Introducing the Art Nail Polish Trolley – a groundbreaking innovation as the world’s first nail polish organizer trolley designed to elevate your nail care experience.

Revolutionary Design: Step into a new era of nail polish organization with our Art Nail Polish Trolley. Its chrome steel frame not only exudes durability but also features a convenient carrying handle for easy transport, making it the ultimate on-the-go solution for nail technicians and enthusiasts alike.

Ample Storage: Unleash your creativity with the Art Trolley’s six trays, each accommodating up to 22 nail polishes. With a total capacity of 132 nail polishes, this trolley ensures that your entire nail polish collection is effortlessly organized and readily accessible.

Smart Functionalities: The rectangular base of the trolley is equipped with an object holder, providing a dedicated space for additional tools and accessories. Enhanced mobility is achieved with the inclusion of nylon casters, allowing you to effortlessly glide the trolley from one workstation to another.

Total Capacity, Infinite Possibilities: With a total capacity of 132 nail polishes, the Art Nail Polish Trolley caters to both professionals and enthusiasts, offering an expansive and efficient storage solution for your vibrant array of nail colours.

Experience the future of nail polish organization with the Art Nail Polish Trolley – where innovation meets practicality, ensuring your nail polish collection is always within reach and impeccably organised.

www.joiken.com.au

The Goddess of Treatment Tables Meet Venus from Comfortel

Meet the Venus, Comfortel’s queen of electric beauty beds. Perfect for all beauty treatments, it effortlessly switches from a chair to a flat table. Powered by three motors, it offers full adjustability. Dressed in Blush or Black, Venus provides ultimate comfort and style for your clients. Explore the Venus at Comfortel’s showrooms or on www.comfortel.com.au

PERFECT AGE By Biodroga

The BIODROGA Bioscience Institute PERFECT AGE Serum is specifically formulated for mature, dry skin that requires firming and hydration. It includes potent anti-aging ingredients that work together to combat the effects of hormonal changes during menopause. The serum contains monk’s pepper to restore hormonal balance in the skin, hyaluronic acid for deep and long-lasting hydration, and a firming peptide complex to enhance skin elasticity. These three ingredients deliver tripleaction benefits, making mature skin feel rejuvenated. www.biodroga.com.au

New launch INSKIN.CO

INSKIN.CO offers a comprehensive range of cosmedical skincare products, formulated to provide accessible, evidence-based solutions for radiant, healthy skin all with an RRP of $55 (exclusive of the starter kits, valued at RRP: $135)

HMP BT

Born in Byron Bay HMP BT was inspired by the mythical healing properties of this sacred place, Long the destination for restoration of the mind and body.

Hemp Botanical pride themselves on the perfect combination of locally sourced natural ingredients blended to perfection with the latest science to provide the ultimate face, body and hair restoration experience.

A luxurious line of Hemp Seed infused self-care treatments specifically targeted to those living in today’s harsh global environments. Hemp Botanical boasts the highest quality of ingredients targeting skin and hair health while improving the appearance of smooth, rejuvenated, bacteria-free skin and healthy nutrient rich hair.

Hemp Botanical is an exquisite Australian line of luxury self-care treatments centred around Hemp Seed’s restorative elements - other ingredients include Kakadu Plum, Wattle Seed and Cocoa Butter.

All Hemp Botanical products feature aromatic formulations including protective and restorative Hemp Seed Oil helping to guard against transferrable bacteria. Effectively cleansing skin without dehydration. Hemp Botanical creates divine solutions that work effectively to cleanse, rejuvenate, and nourish your body while giving you that clean, kissed by nature sensation.

The range includes:

Restorative Botanical Hand & Bodywash. Restorative Botanical Body Crème.

HMP BT’s Restorative Botanical Hand Balm. Restorative Deep Cleansing Botanical Clay Masque.

HMP BT Deep Cleansing Shampoo Bar. Hemp Botanicals Bespoke Gift Box. For more info go to www.hmpbt.com

Popups Aren’t the Problem! It’s the Way They’re Being Utilised That Is!

By Digital Health Co

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, beauty businesses must continuously adapt and innovate to remain competitive. One tool that often receives mixed reviews is the website popup.

When used effectively, popups can significantly enhance client engagement and boost conversions, and sometimes they’re even necessary. When misused, they can frustrate visitors and drive them away.

We delve into the nuances of popups, exploring different types, best practices, and some practical examples of popups tailored for beauty businesses.

The Necessity of Popups

Popups are not inherently problematic; the issue lies in the implementation. When used strategically, popups serve several essential functions:

1. Improving User Experience: Popups can guide visitors through your site, providing relevant information and offers that enhance their experience.

2. Compliance: Certain popups, such as cookie consent and age disclosures, are necessary for legal compliance.

3. Boosting Conversions: Well-timed and relevant popups can significantly increase conversions by capturing visitor attention at crucial moments.

Types of Popups and Their Purposes

Let’s explore different types of popups that are necessary and their specific purposes in a beauty business context:

Cookie Consent Popups

Purpose: Compliance with privacy regulations. Cookie consent popups appear at the bottom or top of a webpage, informing users about using cookies and obtaining their consent. This is essential for complying with privacy laws such as the GDPR. These popups ensure transparency and build trust with your clients by clearly communicating your data usage policies.

Accessibility Widget Popups

Purpose: Enhancing website accessibility. Accessibility widget popups are typically located on the side of the screen. They provide tools for enhancing the accessibility of your website, such as text size adjustments, contrast settings, and screen readers. Ensuring your website is accessible to all users is not only ethical but can also broaden your client base.

Chat Widgets

Purpose: Providing instant customer support. Chat widgets are hovering popups found in the bottom corner of the screen. They open chat windows that allow clients to get instant answers to their queries. This real-time interaction can significantly improve customer satisfaction and conversion rates by addressing concerns promptly.

Age Disclosure Popups

Purpose: Complying with age restrictions for treatments. Age disclosure popups notify clients about age restrictions for certain treatments. This ensures compliance with legal requirements and manages client expectations, preventing potential issues related to ageinappropriate bookings.

Best Practices for Effective Popups

To ensure your popups are effective and not annoying, follow these best practices:

Timing

Display your popup after visitors have had time to explore your site. Aim for at least 15 seconds before showing the popup. This allows visitors to settle in and engage with your content before being interrupted.

Relevance

Ensure your popup content is tailored to the page your visitor is on and aligns with their interests. For example, a discount on facials should appear on your facials service page. Relevant popups are more likely to be appreciated and acted upon.

Frequency

Limit how often the same popup appears to avoid frustrating your visitors. Once or twice per visit is enough. Excessive popups can drive visitors away and create a negative impression of your brand.

Easy Exit

Provide a clear and simple way for visitors to close the popup if they’re not interested. A visible ‘X’ button or ‘No Thanks’ option is a must. Respecting your visitors’ choice to close a popup can enhance their overall experience on your site.

Mobile-Friendly

Make sure your popup looks great on mobile devices. Avoid designs that are too tall or difficult to navigate on smaller screens. A mobile-friendly design ensures all visitors, regardless of device, can easily interact with your popups.

Keep It Simple

Limit the number of form fields. Collect only the essential information to get started, like name and email. Overly complicated forms can deter visitors from completing them.

Personalisation

Personalise popups based on user behaviour and preferences. Tailored messages can significantly improve engagement and conversion rates. Use data such as past visits or purchase history to create relevant and compelling popups.

Examples of Effective Popups for Beauty Websites

Here are some specific popups you can implement on your beauty website to enhance client engagement that you probably haven’t considered before.

Update to Booking Policy: Inform clients of any changes to your booking policy directly on your website.

Last-Minute Appointment Availability: Notify clients of last-minute appointment slots and link directly to your booking system.

Update to Opening Hours During Holidays: Keep clients informed about your special holiday hours, ensuring they can plan their visits accordingly.

Unique Event or Promotion: Promote special events or limited time offers to drive engagement and bookings.

New Service Announcement: Highlight new services or treatments added to your menu to excite your clients.

Client Video Story: Share a client’s video testimonial and prompt viewers to check out more case studies.

New Blog Post or Educational Content Release: Promote new blog posts or educational content to engage and inform your clients.

Loyalty Program Invitations: Encourage repeat business by inviting visitors to join your loyalty program through a well-timed popup.

Popups, when used correctly, are invaluable tools for enhancing user experience, ensuring compliance, and boosting conversions on beauty business websites. By understanding the different types of popups and implementing best practices, you can transform them from annoying interruptions to engaging, useful features that add value to your clients’ experience.

So which popup are you going to remove, or add to your website?

Digital Health Co is a Melbourne-based web development agency helping the hair, beauty, and aesthetic industry shine online. By blending our industry background with tech expertise, we help salons grow their online presence and revenues.

Learn more about Digital Health Co www.digitalhealthco.com.au

6 Career Mistakes I Made, So You Don’t Have To!

By Robyn McAlpine

If I could go back to the beginning of my career and start over but take back all of the lesson and knowledge I have now, of course there are many things I would do very differently. But as a skin therapist, here’s the top 6 things I’d change if I could go back for a ‘do over’ that would have the biggest and quickest impact on my success in the treatment room!

Mistake 1: I thought using technical skin jargon made me look smarter!

Whilst I could rattle off all the skin science-y names and talk in cell anatomy, this is really only useful when speaking peer to peer to discuss deeper skin information.

When we use it with our clients it creates a divide between them and their skin journey, However once I learned how to make skin relatable, and let my ego take a backseat, I realised that the more I can make skin things make sense, the more clients became connected to their skin, the more they understood why their skin was misbehaving, the more empowered they were to work together and make great skin decisions.

If I could go back, I’d learn how to make my skin knowledge more accessible and transferrable sooner so that my clients could deeply connect to their skin journey. I realised I didn’t need to use big words to sound smart and impress my clients. Instead, I needed to focus on helping my clients feel empowered and equipped to make healthy skin choices.

Mistake 2: I thought diving too deep in a consultation made me nosey.

Our client’s business is our client’s business, so I didn’t want to pry or dig around in their business. I would skim over my skin consultations and try to put together a treatment plan with crumbs of information. That left me guessing skin conditions like I was on a game show, and I was unable to create truly tailored skin plans for each unique client in front of me. General information gives you general treatment plans, gives you general results.

Once I realised I needed to be like a detective, asking lots of questions, following hunches, I started to really get somewhere. I also discovered that clients truly appreciated the attention to detail and my digging deeper as they had previously experienced so many generalised consultations that once they realised I was truly interested and invested in helping them, they were willing and forthcoming to open up and share often private personal information. I was truly there to help them and that the more information I had to draw from, the more I could help them. But it took me changing my

mindset and becoming that skin focused detective for that shift to happen. Suddenly, the life changing results came rolling in.

Mistake 3: I built friendship-based client connections, instead of being their skin professional (first)

Sure, we’d chat about the kids, the weekend, cute boys, and bitch about life, I became the girlfriend first, skin therapist…sometimes. When I was in the friend zone, it felt harder to steer the conversation to my client’s skin, to their home care products, to recommending my home care products. Rebooking them in the treatment time frame became harder because I was a friend who understood their busy life and not their skin therapist who held them accountable to their own self-care.

Once I realised I could build beautiful client relationships as their skin therapist FIRST, I started to build stronger more impactful connections with my clients because they saw me as their trusted guide on their skin journey, their wise counsel in all things skin care. Yes, we have laughs about life and I get to know them on a personal level, every time we meet, they meet their skin professional first, their ‘estie bestie’ second!

Mistake 4: I broke myself to fit the beauty industry mould.

From the way I dressed and the way I did my hair, to the layout of my salon, I was replicating the model of what I thought was the epitome of a model beauty therapist. Clean cut, eloquent… impersonal. The more clean-cut professional I looked, the better I would fit in, the more seriously I’d be taken.

But trying to be someone else was exhausting and it started to take its toll on my career satisfaction. I felt like an imposter in my own business. Little did I know that by letting my true personality shine through that it would be one of the biggest keys to my career success! It wasn’t until I quite literally let my hair down and showed up to the treatment room as myself, imperfect, a little rough around the edges that my client connections became more authentic, I attracted the kinds of clients that were attracted to my relatable-ness and I have built a global community of skin therapist who ae also breaking the mould and living their best skin therapist careers!

Mistake 5: I was too scared to deal with unhappy clients.

No one likes confrontation. And when a client comes back with disappointing results or has plucked up the courage to voice dissatisfaction, (because it can be hard to advocate for themselves too) I had no idea what to do. We were never taught this in our training, and I had never had a boss or manager show me a successful way of handling moments like these- I think they avoided these tricky spots too!

It can be an instinctive reaction to avoid the client or pass blame. However, I learned that great communication leads to great outcomes, even with some of the most disgruntled clients. I developed a process and a system that would help me to help my clients when things weren’t going as amazingly as I had hoped (and that ALL stemmed from my failings in point 2!) I now give my Skinside Out Squad members these tools and confidence to have these tricky conversations and help them turn a negative experience into a positive one.

I avoided building myself a community in our industry. Back to point 4 of not feeling like I fit into the industry box, I thought being the late bloomer, tomboy with no clue how to apply my own makeup, I thought I had no place in the beauty world.

I wasn’t one of the cool girls, in fact, if we’d met in high school, you’d have to be in the library at lunchtime to even cross paths with me! Thanks to this feeling, I avoided connection and contribution in this industry for over half my career. And gee whiz was I missing out! Granted our industry is notorious for being “mean girls” I have discovered were all just a bunch of library (skin) nerds, trying to fit in. And instead of trying to be like everyone else, I eventually let my personality break out of the tiny box (it was struggling to squish itself in there anyway!) and created with a global army of skin lovers who are just as passionate, kind, loving and supportive. So much so I created our very own little place over in the Skinside Out Squad. Now I hang out with amazing skin therapist every single day! (You’re welcome there too!)

A wise person once told me that if I wanted to go farther, that I should pay close attention to those who have been where I want to go. It’s by learning from their mistakes that I could create shortcuts to my own success and growth. Hopefully by baring my all and admitting to my mistakes, you took can create a few shortcuts in the directions you’re looking to go!

Having a mentor, a coach, a big sister and an industry friend is the key to reaching your career goals. If you’d like me in your corner, come visit me over at the Skinside Out Squad, the place where I hang out and share my lessons, insights and cheat codes to being the best skin therapist you can be!

robyn@skintifix.com www.skintifix.com

I am the worst person…

By Elle Wilson

I am the worst person to write about success, if I am being perfectly honest. Why? Because my definition of success is waking up every morning and deciding to be more tender and more kind to myself and to others than I was yesterday.

I first heard these words many years ago and the words touched me so deeply, they stuck.

My definition of success was transformed. You see, if this isn’t the fundamental principle I live by, nothing can save me.

If money becomes more important than tenderness and kindness, I believe, humanity as a whole is lost.

If we look around us and consider the state of the average entrepreneur, we will be faced with this dilemma of sorts. How do we succeed with kindness and tenderness?

Isn’t it about the hustle, dog eat dog, winning?

Maybe for some. However, without these deep-seated human qualities of tenderness and kindness, we are failures in each moment.

The beauty entrepreneur is in the most impactful and glorious space. She has a location-based business and may not even need social media, Facebook ads or a website to thrive beyond her wildest dreams. But she does need to deeply and truly care about others. Once again, we’re back to kindness and tenderness.

If we miss the power of these human qualities, we become lost in the sea of worldly notions about success. We are at the mercy of what others tell us we must do, and we lose sight of our own uniqueness in this world.

Beauty is about caring, caring about others. We are like the nurturers of the world. We take care of the pain points women and men experience. There is a deep intimacy and vulnerability that we must be able to open first in ourselves so we can serve others in a meaningful and real way.

For the beauty professional to step into her career, her purpose, with abandonment, she needs to truly see her value.

Imagine a woman who is suffering from hormonal acne, embarrassed to look at her face in the mirror as she wakes up each day with yet another cyst on her neck. She just can’t hide. She feels completely out of her depth and needs your care and expertise to work her way through this. How vulnerable is this woman?

Imagine a young person who decided to microblade her brows and now has red discoloration on her face that she can’t hide as the pigment fades unevenly. She is left only to look for help from a warm and caring beauty professional who has a real answer to her embarrassing problem.

Then the young woman who steps into your salon with black hairy legs that she hides under long pants, regardless of the weather. Hot or cold, those long pants never come off. She’s embarrassed, vulnerable.

The beauty industry’s success hinges on two key principles: deep and genuine care for people and a commitment to delivering safe, effective long-term results. A true beauty professional prioritizes their clients’ wellbeing above all else. Financial gain, while necessary, should never be the primary motivation. Those who pursue this career solely for monetary rewards have strayed from its essential purpose.

If you are misaligned, you will need to work harder on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, you will have to work harder on marketing and campaigning because your hearts are not right.

As our icon, ‘the fairy godmother of skin’ Gay Wardle, said in our recent interview, “First you have to care, and the money will follow.”

These comments are not just lame words shared by industry experts to sound good, they are the very foundation, the principles our industry must choose to be grounded in.

Creating an impactful beauty business has nothing to do with social media platforms, first and foremost, it has everything to do with you.

Location businesses have one powerful business model that will appease all stress and anxiety in business: The Referral Model.

You set the terms within yourself. What are your values? What is your ethos in business? Live it, breathe it, and experience the wonder of humans sharing the uniqueness of you with their friends, family, and colleagues.

Let’s be honest, it isn’t always easy to care and be kind. It might seem easier to create a reel and upload it, hoping for some success or engagement. However, the truth is that success in life is about that beautiful feeling of fulfillment that stays within you as you lay your head down to sleep.

As you embark on your journey in the beauty industry, may you find the courage to prioritize kindness and genuine care. In doing so, you’ll not only transform lives but also discover the true essence of success and fulfillment as a beauty professional.

Elle Wilson. CEO & Founder of TrueBrow International and Elle Wilson Enterprises @ellewilsonofficial

The New Era of Sales and Consultation

By Rebecca Miller

Consultation is the heartbeat of your salon or clinic, but old strategies won’t connect with new generations of clients. Thriving in the changing beauty industry means embracing a new era of sales and consultation. Today, I’ll explain how this shift can turn your consultations into your business’s most powerful tool, strengthen client bonds, and fuel growth.

Reflecting on my early days, I remember the discomfort I felt around sales conversations. I would say things like, “I’m not a salesperson; I’m a beauty therapist.” Money was also something I felt uneasy discussing. I don’t know about you, but I wasn’t taught how to sell. We are great at our craft, continually learning about skin function, cells, systems, skin conditions, cosmetic chemistry, and ingredients. Still, there has never been any education to understand our clients’ psychology and human behaviour in our consultation or sales process – until now.

The principles I’m sharing today come from a 30-year-long obsession with understanding how the brain works, neuroscience, psychology, and human behaviour. By understanding people better and mastering effective communication, you can enhance every area of your life, and today, you’ll discover how to leverage it to transform your consultations.

Before we think about our clients and our sales and consultation process, let’s shine a light on you and what sales really mean. It’s something I’ve been reflecting on at a deeper level. How do we truly see sales and selling?

When we stop relating to sales in the old way (pushy, manipulative tactics), we realise that sales are the doorway to all our desires: more transformations and happy clients, building incredible teams, time freedom, money freedom, leadership, confidence, and most importantly, a sustainable business.

To serve is to sell

You cannot serve someone if you are not selling. Think about how often you recommend a book, a movie, a massage, or an event to friends because you found it so good. You are selling that experience to them, but it doesn’t feel like a sale. Why? Because it’s a passionate, authentic recommendation. Similarly, our businesses’ desire to serve must be greater than the desire to make a sale.

Sales is leadership; sales is the transfer of certainty; sales is change. When we sell, we give people information in a way that helps them

make better, faster decisions. Whether clients want to try something new or move away from pain, it’s all about change. A highly effective sales or consultation process provides clients comfort and certainty, ensuring they feel safe and understood.

For many years, the traditional approach to sales has been about pushing products and services. But in today’s world, especially when connecting with new generations, this method simply doesn’t work. We need to shift our focus from selling to solving. It’s not about us; it’s about truly understanding our clients’ needs and helping them find the solutions they seek.

A highly effective sales or consultation process gives you the foresight to know where you are leading your clients and, in turn, gives them the comfort and certainty that they are in safe hands. You must create a methodology that systematically and elegantly moves someone from “I’m interested” to “I’m buying,” from pain to pleasure, from current to future state. Sales and marketing are two sides of the same coin, and we must master both. Clinics that grow faster are:

• Focused on doing less but doing it well. They know the problems they solve, have clear messaging to talk to their ideal client,

and create a business of results, value, high retention, and raving fans.

• Offering solutions that connect with the hearts and minds of their consumers and have turned that connection into a sales process that can be optimised, scaled, and trained. It’s • crazy how most businesses systemise everything except the one function that drives their revenue and transformation – their consultations!

So, how do our clients make decisions?

To develop your own unique sales process that helps people buy more from you, more often, we first need to understand what drives decisionmaking - not from your perspective, but from your customers’ perspective.

You’re probably familiar with the concept of leftbrain versus right-brain thinking. The left brain is known for logic and analytical thinking (L for left, L for logic), while the right brain is known for emotion and creativity.

In my Mentorship Program, The 1% Code for Self, Wealth and Salon Business Expansion, we label the left side of the brain the red brain, and the right side the green brain.

Red Brain

The biggest and most common problem in sales is having red-brain conversations.

To understand the red brain, think about when you’re driving a car. What do you do when you get to a red light? You stop. What colour is a stop sign? It’s red. What are you looking for when you get to a stop sign? Danger, warning signs, reasons not to go.

When anchored into their red brains, clients will stop, wait, and look for danger. It is the “what if” brain:

• What if I make the wrong decision?

• What if it’s too expensive?

• What if there is a risk I don’t know about?

• What if there is something better out there?

For a therapist stuck in the red brain, conversations are focused on your product, its features, the process length, and the price. We generally love speaking to these things because they are familiar, comfortable, and within our knowledge, aka our comfort zone.

Green Brain

Green brain is the psychological key to helping clients make quicker, more confident decisions. When humans operate from the green, or right side, of their brain, they make decisions faster and don’t worry about negative consequences.

Think of it like this: what do you do if you get a green light? You go! You feel safe to proceed, often without consciously registering the colour of the light. I’m sure there have been moments when you have approached a green light, and a pedestrian or bike startled you. Why were you surprised? Because you weren’t looking for danger.

When you shift your marketing messages and sales conversations from the productfocused red brain to the emotionally charged green brain, you help your clients feel into and

articulate their lived experiences, challenges, pain, fears, wants and dreams. It’s about going beyond the rational and connecting with your clients emotionally. In doing so, you accelerate decisionmaking.

In every sales conversation, you must remember: the ‘why’ makes them buy. Whenever you talk about a client’s “why”, unleashing emotion into the decisionmaking process, you’re having a green brain conversation.

Every green brain needs a red one

For someone to make a decision, you need to engage both hemispheres of the brain, but it’s crucial to know how to activate the red brain, when to engage the green brain, and how to use them together effectively.

When clients have their green brain activated, they will happily handle the red brain details. However, if you put them into their red brain from the start and keep them there, you will be met with objections, delays, and the dreaded, “I want to think about it.”

The key is to lead with green brain conversations, understanding your client’s underlying needs, wants, and desirestheir ‘why.’ Use these insights to guide the conversation and your recommendations. Then, when it’s time to commit, invite the red brain into the sale. Clients commit with their green brain, and the red brain manages the specifics. When you re-engage the red brain, it becomes a much smaller component of the entire journey.

Is your team operating in red or green brain? Every touchpoint, from the language you use in your marketing to how you present your product or service in the consultation process, sets the tone for whether your client is in their red or green brain.

If, like most people, your marketing and

sales are entirely red-brain, here are a few examples to help you shift to green-brain language:

• During payment conversations, instead of asking, “How would you like to pay?” say, “How would you like to take care of that today?” This small change reduces discomfort and encourages a positive response.

• When rebooking a client, rather than saying, “Let’s make your next appointment,” try, “Let’s plan our next time to get together.” People are less likely to cancel on a person than on an appointment.

• Avoid saying, “We do a weekly direct debit when discussing payment plans.” Instead, say, “We offer a weekly payment plan designed to help with your cash flow.” This approach feels supportive rather than obligatory.

I have so much to share on this topic, but I would take up the whole magazine! So much so that I designed an entire course around it that’s transforming the approach to sales and consultations in our industry. If you want to learn more about the new era of sales and consultation, we dive deeper into these principles in our Heartfelt Sales Course. We teach you how to put these lessons into practice with real-life scenarios, scripts, and lessons designed to empower you and your team.

Visit rebeccamiller.com.au/heartfelt-salescourse to transform your approach and watch your business thrive.

The Secrets of Successful Salon/Clinic Owners who are Bucking the Downturn Trend!

By Chrissy Alger

Hello everyone, I am

Chrissy Alger- Founder of Freedom Mastery coaching for the Hair, Skin and Beauty Industry…

I was a Salon Owner, and now I am a Salon Marketer and Salon Coach having successfully ran my own Salon business from start-up- NOT as a technician and purely as someone addicted to business… I am actually a psychologist, who decided to do something different and venture into the salon industry space under the guise of wanting to do more to promote health, wellbeing, and self-confidence (all the things we get when we spend time in a Hair or Beauty Salon).

Start Up Businesses are hard work. Especially when you cannot do the work yourself. So, over the years I have had to learn all of the business strategies known to man to keep my business afloat and to stop myself from going bankrupt!

During COVID, my Melbourne based clinic was completely shut down. It was not an ‘economic downturn’ it was a complete elimination of my business operating as it had been.

A complete pivot of the business meant that for the entire lockdown period we actually made more money than the comparable trade period before lockdown… Yep, I made MORE money…. CLOSED!!!

So, I know a little bit about downturn, navigating market fluctuations and bullet-proofing your business from less than ideal economic climates!

So read on, and I’ll share a few of my secrets…

The shifts and changes to the economy, disposable income and budgets of your clients definitely have an impact on your business...

But it’s highly likely that the impacts are highlighting problems that were already there…

Which I know might be a bit of a hard pill to swallow, but I’ll tell you what I mean by this...

If you were a bit relaxed in your approach to treatment or client journey mapping in your business before market fluctuations, you are likely to be experiencing clients cancelling, not rebooking, or stretching out the appointments right now…

If your consultation was not structured, inconsistent, and not geared towards increasing motivation and commitment from clients before market fluctuation, it’s likely they are now spending less…

To maintain high levels of commitment and motivation from your clients, secure revenue growth and profit, and a business you still love no matter what… a number of things need to be

present... And they needed to be present BEFORE the market started to waiver…

I want to share with you the success pillars of clinic and salon owners that are still experiencing growth in their business right now, regardless of the market fluctuations.

Mindset Matters:

One of the most significant obstacles faced by business owners during market fluctuations is mindset. The tendency to adopt a victim mentality, blaming external factors for business challenges, can be detrimental. The business owners who are doing well right now, shift their focus towards identifying solutions and opportunities within their control. They reframe challenges as opportunities for innovation and adaptation. These business owners are empowering themselves to navigate market fluctuations more effectively, and it’s all coming from their strong mindset.

payment schedules and offering exclusive benefits, such as discounts or complimentary services, the clinic/salons doing this right now are experiencing good client retention and profit protection.

Strategies that are protecting revenue and growth:

Robust Booking Policies: Implementing and consistently enforcing strong booking policies can mitigate the impact of appointment cancellations and no-shows, which have increased in the economic downturns. Successful clinic and Salon owners are extending appointment confirmation times to 72 hours, which enables enough notice to refill appointments that have been cancelled. They have been enforcing late cancellation policies to ward off no shows and revenue lost from these. Some have also shifted from deposit collection to credit card security in their booking security process. This strategy enables the client to provide a booking security without having to deposit funds (which they may not have) in advance of their appointment time. Therefore, decreasing the likelihood of cancellation due to budget restraints.

Optimizing White Spaces: Rather than viewing white spaces in the appointment book as lost revenue, clinic/ salon owners have been leveraging these gaps to provide additional value to existing clients. By reviewing client files and identifying opportunities for upselling services or products, clinic/salons can upgrade clients into white space by extending service times through upsell.

Subscription Style Treatment/Service Planning: Offering Subscription Style Treatment/Service Planning incentivizes clients to commit to long-term treatment plans, and also provides a steady stream of revenue and client loyalty. By breaking down treatment plans into manageable

Focus on Relationship Building: Building strong relationships with clients is key to overcoming hesitance and fostering trust. Clinics/Salons doing this well are offering follow-up support sessions or review appointments in the instance that clients are resisting rebooking into further treatments, these are done complimentary. Demonstrating this commitment to client care and providing opportunities to revisit plans and home care prescriptions on a second visit, has been found to strengthen the trust and client relationship. This then leads to higher levels of commitment from clients, especially new Clients.

If you need more help with implementing these strategies, there’s a few ways you can get some further support from me with an upcoming free masterclass ‘Bulletproof Your Business’ and an upcoming event on ‘Ditching the Downturn’ email me at Chrissy@freedommastery.com

Meet the Partners: Why The Whitening Clinic chose Fresha as the software to run their business.

In the suburbs of Waverley in New South Wales, Australia, sits The Whitening Clinic. Owned by Alissa Brandtman, it’s been around for three years and has quickly become the go-to place for a brighter and healthier smile.

The Whitening Clinic does more than just aesthetic teeth whitening They make sure they always talk to their clients about maintaining oral health, microbiome and how to whiten teeth “from the inside”.

We sat down with Alissa to find out more about her clinic and learn more about how she has used Fresha to build her business from the ground up and grow it into what it is today.

On why Alissa started The Whitening Clinic, she said “I really felt the dental industry needed something that was a little more in the beauty space. So, I developed a business that looks at wellness, and not just teeth whitening, and we really tried to create a space that feels like a salon.”

“Teeth whitening is our core service, but we also have an oral health therapist who comes and does dental cleans. We offer oral microbiome testing, as well as a range of oral care products that we recommend to our clients”.

“When the client first comes in, we do a whole education session about how the whitening works, how the actual process works, how teeth work, and so give people a full understanding of what to expect, what their expectations will be, not just guarantee them 14 shades lighter.”

A space calm enough for clients to fall asleep

While many clients might think of sterile chairs, bright lights and pain when they think about the dental industry, The Whitening Clinic could not be any more different. “It’s not like the dentist. There’s a lot of anxiety around what’s going to happen at the dentist, but here that doesn’t happen. Clients come in and comment on how calm it feels.”

And Alissa tells us that when it came to choosing the software, she was eager to do the research beforehand to make sure she was getting the right one for her. A software that would be easy to use, a great experience for her clients, and would match the sleek and clean aesthetic of her clinic.

“Coming from a software background, I wanted to compare different systems to work with and Fresha was definitely the best system for me. I looked at all the features of booking software and did a whole cost analysis. I chose Fresha because of how easy it is to use, and it’s really user friendly. And because it’s free to sign up, I only started paying for what I use as I go.”

“Fresha has contributed to the growth of our business in a lot of ways” Alissa goes on. “Because it’s a combination of our customer management system, our marketing, and our reporting, we use it for everything we need to do. We have a marketing plan which incorporates how we market through Fresha, and we do our reporting and our goals and our budgeting all through Fresha as well.”

“We ask all the relevant questions we need, then it’s right there at our fingertips. We use consent forms that we send out to all of our clients when they first book. This has been a great system because it stays in our customer database on Fresha. They get to do it on their phone as soon as they book and it comes straight through to us”

“Fresha came and took the photos on our marketplace for us. They’re gorgeous photos and they represent our brand really well. And then there’s an ease of use of actually booking in through the marketplace. Fresha is a great partner for the whitening clinic because, even though it’s a large business, I feel like it’s a small one because they actually listen to what I need in my business.”

Fresha is the world’s #1 beauty and wellness marketplace powered by all-in-one free business software with integrated payments. With over 100,000 partner venues in more than 120 countries, Fresha simplifies business operations and enhances customer experiences. To learn more, visit fresha.com, download Fresha on the App Store and Google Play, or follow Fresha on Instagram and Facebook.

For more information or media queries please contact marketing@fresha.com For online, please link to fresha.com/for-business

How to Overcome “I Can’t Do That” Fear!

By Faye Murray

Fear of not achieving is a stumbling block that therapists face every day.

Fear is a thing that we would like to live without, but we all experience it.

Public speaking is generally high on most people’s list. “I would rather jump from a plane without a parachute, than stand up in front of people and talk.”

However, I personally love doing it and have no fear anymore. The first time I did it, I am sure I was afraid, but because I have now done it many times, I don’t feel the fear.

So, what causes that fear? Simply it is doubt. Fear occurs when you doubt that you have the ability to succeed, so you worry that you will fail, and others will notice.

Sometimes, I believe we feel that we fail because it seems to us that expectations are too high.

Let’s look at an example. In your salon your manager has told you:

“You must recommend to each and every client.”

The first thing that comes to mind is: “There is no way that each and every client will buy. I will come across as being pushy, The clients won’t like me.”

Set yourself three goals: -

GOAL ONE

Talk don’t sell to every client and share your knowledge and experience.

You will be confident to do this, because you have the knowledge to share and educate. You know so much that your clients will benefit from. They will appreciate what you share.

GOAL TWO

Set a goal for the number of rejections that you may get. (A bit unusual, you are thinking)

You are going to look after 35 clients this week. You will expect to get 15 rejections. If you expect that is the reality, when a client says no you will just say to yourself:

“I expected that, so that is ok”.

GOAL THREE

• Set a goal for the number of ‘yes’ clients. 35 clients….15 rejections….20 yeses.

• When you set your expectations at a level that is real you will have less disappointment and more “wow I did it!”

• Talk to everyone, don’t pick and choose

• Set a goal for the number of rejections. Convince yourself this is ok

If you want your clients to respond in a positive way, you must give off positive energy.

CAN’T YOU OR WON’T YOU

This can be applied to anything that you do in life and in a salon situation.

“I can’t get my clients to say yes to rebooking… other therapists do it, but I can’t”

The question is can’t you, or won’t you? You absolutely can’t if you don’t have the training and the knowledge. If that is the case ask someone for help but if you have all the knowledge and you have been trained and you aren’t getting your clients saying yes, I suggest it is because you won’t.

See if this might be you:

• You pick and choose who you invite to rebook, and it probably feels like you are inviting 7 out of 10 but it is probably more likely that you are asking 3 out of 10. You will always get a low score on this if you don’t offer it to each client because the reality is some will say yes and some will say no.

• You do it at the reception by saying “would you like me to organise your next appointment?” This is not offering a service; it is just asking a question that is almost an afterthought.

• Worse still is this one “would you like to make your next appointment, or would you like to just give me a call?”

If you want to get rid of the fear and the doubt, you must also recognise that to achieve success you must do things in the right way and combine this with a good positive energy and lots of enthusiasm.

CAN’T SELL…I AM JUST NOT GOOD AT IT

Every one of us is a salesperson and we learnt it at a very young age.

We learnt as a baby that if we cry, we can usually sell to our mother. “I want to be picked up”.

We learnt as a little girl, that if we look pretty in a new dress, we can sell our special look to daddy and get a compliment.

We learnt that if we sell an excuse to the teacher, we can probably get out of trouble for the failed deadline.

We learnt that if you want to sell the idea of buying a new car to your husband you need to come up with some good reasons why. Not just I want one.

Think about it. Each and every one of us are fantastic at selling. We have no fear of day-today things because we have been practising it for years and we now do it instinctively. When we get a “no” we usually think of another way to “sell” what we want.

In your salon you just have to keep practicing.

This article was written by Faye Murray from Your Coach. For more information about business coaching and the Zoom training sessions Faye offers contact: 0409 342 653 faye@yourcoach.net.au www.yourcoach.net.au

Sustainability and Your Salon: It Doesn’t Need to Be Overwhelming !

By Jay Chapman

Climate change, carbon footprint, green energy, clean energy… It’s no wonder we get overwhelmed with knowing where to start to reduce our impact on the environment.

It can almost feel like a “would be nice” area of the business to focus on when we wear so many hats! I can guarantee our future generation will thank you for your efforts now. Let’s unpack some SIMPLE and EASY ways you can make your business more green friendly.

1. Make the Switch

As time goes on, more and more power company providers are offering greener options. Apart from saving our planet, the great news is that a lot of the time, these options can actually save you money! Win-win?

• Lightbulbs: Swap all your lightbulbs to energy savers.

• Water-Saving Taps: If you are a hair salon, consider water-saving wash basin taps.

2. Marketing Materials

The future is here! And our marketing needs to follow suit. Yes of course, with the power of social media and digital marketing our recycling is EASY! However, I still strongly believe a physical printed referral card, or a personalised new client follow-up letter still has great merit. If you must invest in print media for your business, try to stick to recycled materials where you can.

• Hot hint! Your software provider has hundreds of ways to market digitally to your clients, and the best news? Zero… carbon… footprint!

3. Ride Sharing

If you have a team of 10, that’s 10 cars to find places to park at your salon, spa, or clinic. Apart from carpooling being great fun, it just makes logical sense. But even better, walk or take public transport.

4. Cool Down

The number of times I walk into my clients’ salons, spas, or clinics, and they have the air conditioning set on the Antarctic setting or in the winter, you feel like you have walked into a sauna is astounding! Adjusting your climate control by 2° can lower your power bills by up to 30%. Cha-Ching!

5. Client History and New Client Info

Going paperless makes sense, doesn’t it? Part of the reason we don’t is that it seems like a lot of work. The good news is that it’s not! By changing a few easy habits, you can go paperless in next to no time. Entering your client histories via a tablet and handing an iPad to your new clients to fill in the details is not only more professional, but it will save you time as well.

6. Recycling

Surely you don’t have just one bin in your salon? If so, where have you been for the last 10 years?! With the amount of consumables and product packaging we chew through in our industry, it just makes logical sense to separate your waste.

• Hot hint! Live in Australia or New Zealand? Contact Sustainable Salons, and they will take all the hard work out of it for you! (Cheeky plug!)

7. Salon Towels

Whether you wash your towels at home or in the salon, make sure your washer and dryer have a high star rating for energy efficiency. You may not be aware, but most power companies have peak and off-peak energy consumption times. Most washers and dryers have timers so you can set them to use at the most cost-effective times.

• Hot hint! Research suppliers in your local area for disposable and recyclable single-use towels. YES, I know they are not the same! Like when your pet goldfish died when you were six years old – you’ll soon get used to life without fluffy towels.

Now I wouldn’t’t be a business coach without talking to you about other forms of waste in your business.

• Turn Down the Heat: Have frequent and open communication with each team member one-on-one.

• Reduce Inefficiencies: Have a plan for how you spend your time working on the business and in it. We waste so much time swapping hats from one to another. Time to fix this once!

• Consistency in Service Delivery: Ensure a consistent level of service across every team member to avoid hot and cold results.

• Client Retention : Stop wasting time inviting new clients into your business without working on your retention. Ensure that for every new client coming through the front door, you don’t have a lost client leaving out the back.

So…. in an ideal world, we would have all of these things plus some in place, right? However, the reality is that we wear many hats and are busy spinning many plates to keep our salons running smoothly. My Advice? Just choose one of the above points to focus on and implement into your business this week. Keep it simple and get the team on board to support you. Team accountability is when things get done, and the magic happens. Go GREEN!

Jay Chapman is a specialist salon coach at Your Growth Coaches. Subscribe to his brand new podcast “Your Growth Coaches The podcast” on all good platforms.

Five Signs That Your Website Copy Is Due For A Refresh !

By Rachel Medlock

Like our skincare routines, our brand’s website copy needs regular reviews to stay effective and deliver the best results.

When your website copy is outdated, ineffective, or fails to capture the essence of your brand, it turns visitors away before they’ve even had a chance to learn about your services.

As we all know, Winter is the perfect time for a glow-up, so keep reading for five signs it’s time to give your website copy a little treatment journey of its own.

Sign #1: Your Biz Isn’t Who It Used To Be Let’s face it. If you’ve been in the game for a while now, your business is likely not the same one with which you first opened your doors. Whether it’s a new approach to treatments, a more honed-in niche, new services, or a complete aesthetic change, if your business has evolved, your website copy should, too.

For example, suppose your website copy gives off vibes of the relaxing fluffy facials of years past, when today’s version of your business is all about serious skin correction (aka giving more fractional than fluffy). In that case, you’re essentially catfishing potential clients, confusing them as to whether you’re ‘their person’ - and the last time I checked, this was the beauty industry, not Love Island.

If your website copy doesn’t reflect the evolution of your business, you’re doing a massive disservice to your bottom line. Update it to align with your current offerings and ethos, ensuring clients understand who you are and what you can do for them.

Sign #2: Your Tribe Isn’t Your Vibe Are you getting lots of one-off facial seekers when you’re really looking for clients committed to a treatment plan?

Not all clients are created equal. If you find yourself fielding enquiries from people who aren’t a good fit for your clinic - whether it’s due to budget constraints, misaligned expectations, or mismatched values, it’s time to revisit your website copy.

Consider how you’re talking about your services and business as a whole. Are you using language that speaks directly to your

ideal client? For example, if you’re a high-end clinic offering advanced treatments, your copy should reflect that level of sophistication and expertise. By tailoring your copy to address the needs and desires of your ideal clients can make a world of difference in who walks through your doors.

Sign #3: Your Brand Voice Feels Like A Stranger

Every sentence of copy your business puts into the universe should be an extension of your brand identity – especially your website! When clients walk through your doors, their experience with you should feel familiar, based on what they’ve learnt about you online. If your website copy feels generic or doesn’t accurately convey the personality and ethos of your clinic, your tone of voice is out of whack.

Tone of voice is not just about what you say, but how you say it. It encompasses the style, attitude, and personality that comes through in your writing. A consistent tone of voice helps to build trust and recognition. When your audience knows what to expect from your communication, they feel more connected to your brand.

The right tone can make your content more engaging. Whether you aim to be authoritative, friendly, professional, or quirky, your tone sets you apart, draws in your dream clients and keeps them interested.

It also helps create an emotional connection with your audience, making your brand feel more human and approachable, which is essential in building lasting relationships with clients.

Sign #4: You’re In The Process Of A Website Glow-Up (Or About To Be)

A website redesign is the perfect opportunity to refresh your copy. Think of it this wayinvesting thousands in a new website and the bare minimum in its copy is like having a full course of IPL pigmentation treatments, only to not wear sunscreen between appointments. Sure, you might see a slight improvement, but it won’t be the show-stopping moment you’re expecting.

Ensuring your messaging aligns with your new look and feel is essential as you revamp your brand’s visual identity. Updating your website copy alongside your design creates a cohesive and compelling brand experience for visitors. Plus, your website designer WILL ask for copy, and if you don’t have what they need to fill out the new layout, you risk limiting your return on investment.

Sign #5: You’re Getting Traffic But No Conversions

If you see a good amount of traffic to your website but few bookings, there could be a disconnect between what visitors are looking for and what your copy is delivering.

Ask yourself, “Are my services clearly explained?”, “Am I addressing my client’s pain points?” and “Does the reader know what I want them to do next?”

Your website copy needs to do more than just inform; it needs to persuade. It should lead visitors through a journey, addressing their concerns, highlighting the benefits of your services, and having a clear call to action, making it easy for them to take the next step. If your copy isn’t converting, you know what to do.

If any of these signs resonate with you, I’m here to help! Together, we can ensure that your website works as hard as you are to attract and retain clients.

@rachelmedlockcopywriting

How On Earth Do We Read Our Client’s Minds ?

By Sarah Garner, Digital Bloom

Let’s tip the ‘usual’ article format on its head, shall we? Let’s get straight to the juicy pointask yourself (out loud) these questions:

- Who (and what) greets your clients as they step into your establishment?

- Which scents envelop them upon arrival?

- How does your business resonate in both physical and online realms?

- How seamless is the booking process for your clients?

- How are client’s concerns handled in the event of a booking issue?

- What is the sensory experience of receiving a product order?

- How do you respond to positive or negative feedback on social platforms?

- Do you offer opportunities for clients to engage and explore new offerings?

Each question holds a vital piece of information to understanding the emotions at play in your current brand experience. I’m inviting you to reflect on your existing customer journey and see where you can immerse yourself deep into the minds of your clients, sit in their shoes and tweak things so they do feel you’ve read their minds.

It’s no secret in today’s competitive market, across all industries, crafting an unforgettable and consistent brand experience is vital. While consumers in the beauty industry have numerous choices for treatments and insanely overwhelming product ranges to explore, it is the brand experience that fosters loyalty and transforms occasional customers into die-hard devotees.

First thing’s first. What’s a brand experience?

It’s the very thing that extends beyond your products and services, it’s the feeling that forges a deeper and more intimate connection with your clients and team members (existing and prospective). It becomes the deciding factor between someone choosing your business over the competitor down the road.

The emotions, thoughts and sensations evoked when interacting with a business is the central focus point many large brands pour endless hours (and dollars) intentionally crafting. One thing they are standout at? Continually refining and optimising their brand experiences, ensuring there are seamless interactions for their audiences across all platforms they are present.

But why is it important?

Brand experience is crucial as it goes beyond mere transactions, shaping the emotional connection between a business and its customers. It is the sum of every interaction, from the first point of contact to post-purchase engagement, influencing perceptions and

fostering loyalty. It creates a lasting imprint in our client’s minds, influencing their preferences and driving repeat business. A well-crafted brand experience not only enhances client satisfaction but also serves as a powerful marketing tool, as satisfied clients are more likely to share their positive experiences, contributing to brand advocacy and attracting new clients.

So, the best way to get inside your clients minds? Easy. Ask them.

List 5 of your most favourite clients (they don’t need to know that they’re your fav), think of all the reasons why you love them and how you feel when they come into your business. Walk them through each stage of the client journey and ask them how they’re feeling, what they would like to see changed, what they love and to stay the same.

to in-person interactions but extends to your website, social media channels, email marketing, and online store. Brands that find ways to infuse online experiences with personalisation and cater to their unique audience’s needs elevate their brand experiences.

Take them across three key stages of your customer journey - exceeding your clients in across areas will make sure your brand experience is as flawless as Beyonce’s twerk in Single Ladies.

The unfolding experience extends across these categories: pre-purchase, service and post-service. The ‘before’, ‘during’ and ‘after’ interacting with your brand.

In the pre-purchase stage, the excitement builds as clients anticipate their visit to your salon, spa, or clinic. A positive brand experience involves easy booking, a navigable service menu, appointment reminders, accessible location, and seamless entry into your space, ensuring a positive first impression.

The service phase encompasses the in-salon experience and the booked service. Pay attention to reception, waiting room ambiance, consultation, the sensory aspects of your space, moments of surprise and delight, and, of course, the service itself.

As clients leave the service encounter feeling blissful and enamoured with your brand, they enter the post-service encounter. This stage is an opportunity to evaluate the checkout process, retail and product recommendations, rebooking options, product packaging, unboxing experience, and any follow-up communication.

The brand experience doesn’t finish when a client walks out the door; it’s an ongoing journey. A flawless encounter at each stage of this threestep model means that, when exposed to your marketing, clients already harbour a positive brand experience and are more likely to engage. As clients increasingly spend time shopping online, the brand experience is not confined

Consider the nuances of your responses to messages, reviews, and comments, the layout of your website, text accessibility, ease of shopping or booking, and response speed to clients. While each interaction may seem trivial on its own, collectively, they contribute to shaping a brand experience that communicates, “you’re one of the good ones.”

The effort you invest in creating an exceptional brand experience must translate into consistency. Avoid the pitfall of elaborate experiences that lose their lustre upon repetition or vary between employees. Consistency should underpin every interaction, ensuring that regardless of where, who, or when someone engages with your brand, they encounter the same exceptional experience.

Ultimately, brand experience is the cornerstone of building enduring relationships, ensuring that clients not only choose a product or service but become dedicated patrons, influencing longterm success and resilience in a dynamic market.

Contact Digital Bloom via their website www. digitalbloom.com.au

Sarah Garner is the Founder and Creative Director at Digital Bloom, an industryspecific branding boutique dedicated to making your hair, beauty or wellness brand turn heads for all the right reasons.

How Focused Are You on “Growing” Your Instagram Following?

And why you shouldn’t be!

By Kayla Zigic

Let’s have an honest chat here… Ask yourself, are you more concerned with the followers you “don’t have” over the loyal followers you already do? If this is you, we need to talk.

In the world of social media, we are led to believe that social media in business is a numbers game. When working closely with salons the “follower count” always seemed to be their primary goal and objective with most believing that their online business and social media would be successful once they hit that magic number, and that the success of their business was reflected through their follower count. (Sound familiar?)

Sadly, follower count is an obsession among 90% of social media users. But the real question here should be why are we spending so much time obsessing over the followers we don’t have instead of focusing on the followers and community we do have?

For most, the current following most salons consist of family, friends, current clients, past clients and followers who are yet to become a client yet. This percentage of followers are comfortably sitting in your purchasing funnel and could potentially become a client with the right social media strategies. So, the question is, why aren’t we focusing on those followers that already know about you, yet haven’t booked? They are already halfway there, they just need a little strategy push to finally get them to book that “book now” button, engage with your content or send you a message or enquiry.

Let me break some things down for you… Followers and Likes don’t equal clients.

Think of vanity metrics such as likes and followers as the feel-good hug drug dopamine. Yes, it feels amazing when you get some new followers, or someone likes your content however, metrics like “likes” and “followers” serve no real purpose unless those “likes”, and “followers” are converting to bums on seats or bodies on beds. Rarely does a large number of likes or followers correlate to the number of clients you have in your salon.

Therefore, you don’t need a large social media following to have a successful social media. What you do need is an engaged community. Yes, growing a following is important, but it shouldn’t be the overall goal of your social media strategy—ever!

So, what should you be focusing on within your social media?

Social media is a platform designed to allow people to be—you guessed it—”social!”

First and foremost, you need to focus on building

your community and nurturing the followers you already have. This means creating authentic and meaningful connections with your audience and truly connecting with your dream clients. This type of connection comes through truly understand your target audience/clients and speaking to them directly.

Have you heard the term “people buy from people”? This is very much true on your social media platforms. Trends around social media is veering towards authentic brand content vs curated stock images of products. People want to see you, they want to see your staff, they want to learn about your specialties, interests, and quirks. They want an incredible therapist who provides fantastic service and someone they can connect with on a deeper level. Share things they might not know about you and your staff. Share your mission statement, your visions, and address their concerns personally.

Enquiries: Keep an eye on the number of inquiries you receive about your services.

Sales: Measure how much revenue is generated through social media efforts.

For example, if you specialise in acne treatments because you have suffered from acne growing up, you may want to share that. This helps build strong relationships with existing followers and establishes your brand authority as an expert in your niche. When new potential clients come to your page, they can see you are an expert in the services you provide.

Next, start building relationships in your inbox and comments. One of my biggest piece of advice is to always replay to comments with open ended questions to continue the conversation. This boosts your engagement and tells Instagram that people are interested in your content. The same goes for your inbox. Reply and building connection with your audience should be your goal, and this can only be done by engaging and reply to your direct messages and connecting with your follower on a deeper level for them to trust you enough to book in.

Here are some metrics I suggest focusing on over your follower count:

Engagement: Track how much your audience is interacting with your posts through likes, comments, and shares.

Bookings: Monitor how many appointments are being booked through your social media channels.

These metrics can only be achieved by followers who have built a connection with you. If these followers become clients and then advocates for your business, they will be your best form of social media advertising—think of them as your social media word of mouth, one of the most powerful marketing tools available.

Instead of focusing on your follower number, I urge you to change your social media mindset and focus on your community. By doing this, your following can only grow.

Remember, the goal is to build a loyal community that supports and advocates for your brand. A strong, engaged community will always be more valuable than a large, disconnected following. By prioritising the relationships you build with your current followers, you’ll create a more meaningful and successful social media presence.

@socialsforsalons

Louise May, Editor-in-Chief, mocha group.

The Path to Progress: Shifting Your Mindset for Salon, Spa & Clinic Success This Financial Year

By Angeli Marie Shaw

As another financial year has come to an end and a new one dawns on us, now is a great time to start thinking, planning and implementing for the next twelve months. A lot may describe this time of the year as a quieter or slower time, or perhaps you’re busier than ever, regardless, with the current pressures experienced broadly across society such as cost of living increases, changes in consumer spending and clients wanting more for their dollar, now is as good a time as any to utilise any down time to set yourself up for the new financial year.

Now, when it comes to getting things done, it’s more than likely that you will feel pressure, distraction and overwhelm, but guess what? Your biggest obstacle may in fact be YOU! But there is good news! Just as you may be part of the problem, you too can also be the solution! It all starts with YOU!

Here are my 7 suggested tips to get YOU started and moving in the right direction with momentum, drive and a solid plan!

1. Just do it - The first steps are always the hardest, but until they are taken, the idea of progress remains just that; an idea. If you’re finding yourself distracted or lacking self-confidence, focus on just getting started. Break larger tasks into small, more manageable pieces and don’t worry about being perfect, after all, perfection is in the mind. Don’t forget to block out any negative influences and when asking questions, focus on growth and consciously think about what you’re asking. Asking others if they’re ‘quiet too’ serves no real purpose, other than perhaps not feeling alone in your situation, but I can guarantee you will not find solutions this way. Whilst sometimes difficult to get the ball rolling, once it does, you’ll find momentum to keep going.

2. Tackle any negative self - talk that arises and confront it – We all know that voice, the one we’ve had to silence and that holds us back. Remember that for every negative message, there’s a positive truth that will override it. For example, if you find yourself saying ‘I don’t know if I can do this’ try saying ‘I’m going to try and do this’. A simple change in language but can have a huge impact in the way you move forward.

3. Acknowledge your strengths and remember that a strength is more appetite than ability, and it’s that appetite that drives us to want to do it again. Contribute the best of yourself everyday into what you do, after all, a strength is an activity that strengthens you.

4. Stop comparing! When you compare yourself to others, it can lead to low self-confidence and depression as well as actually deplete motivation. This certainly won’t lead you closer to any of your set goals. Instead, try tracking your progress and celebrating what you have accomplished so far. Other people’s goals are THEIR goals, set and focus on YOUR own goals and watch your progress!

5. You are who you hang with – Be mindful and aware of who you keep company with because those that you interact with regularly have a direct influence on who you are and what you do. Try and surround yourself with people who encourage you and hold you accountable. People who you can learn positive habits from. Even the interactions you have online can have a direct impact on you, but you have the choice of what you feed your mind. Again, run with the right crowd and be mindful who you hang with, online and in real life.

6. Remember your WHY – It’s so important to constantly reconnect with your purpose! And if you can’t connect the dots between the activity and the big picture, then stop doing it! This will help stop you from going through the motions of doing something for no reason, or not knowing the reason why you’re doing it. Clarity and direction are valuable, and their power shouldn’t be underestimated.

7. Familiarise yourself with your inner world – Believe it or not, you can press pause in any moment and step back, observing any repeating patterns or old recycled habits that don’t serve you. When you do this, you begin to see what is actually happening. Feelings that may be ruling your actions, old resentment that has been dragging you down or the constricting effect of believing your own thoughts. When you discover what you do that makes you suffer, you can begin to instead choose what brings you peace.

Now you probably have plenty of reasons why you don’t get things done, struggle to reach goals or perhaps you’ve lost your drive, however one thing you can start with focusing on and the one which you have the most control over is YOU. If you’re constantly telling yourself that you’re not capable of having what you truly want, unconsciously, you will make it your truth. How does that sit with you? Not good? Well, the good news is that you can change it!

Wishing you nothing but growth, empowerment and success this coming financial year!

Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo

Angeli is a Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor/Trainer and founder of The Bliss Coach. To work with me in 2024, get in touch by visiting www.theblisscoach.com.au or follow us on my socials @theblisscoach to connect and find out more.