Mocha Beauty Year 18 Issue 1

Dermatologically Tested: rigorously tested, safety for all skin types

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

Kat McCann

Karen Geiszler

Gay Wardle

Robyn McAlpine

Elle Wilson

Will Fennell

Dani Boerma

James Vivian

Cait Muir

Elle Huempel

Tamara Reid

Kelly Cunningham

Jay Chapman

Rachel Diaz

Carly Knowles

Keira Maloney

Kayla Zigic

Rachel Medlock

OFFICE

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

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

DISTRIBUTION

Australia Post - Print Post 100005498

PRINTING Printcraft

PUBLISHED BY mochagroup

PUBLISHERS OF Mocha Hair, Mocha Beauty & Mocha Barber

Mocha Beauty is published six times a year by mocha group ABN 65 091 846 189

No Part of the publication may be reproduced in any manner or form without written permission. Mocha Beauty does not accept responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, transparencies, original artwork or other material. The views expressed in Mocha Beauty are not necessarily those of the publisher.

No responsibility will be accepted if the publication is delayed or prevented by factors beyong the control of the publisher. No responsibility will be accepted for errors in copy, or for any loss arising from the failure of an advertisement or any part thereof to appear.

© 2025 mocha group All rights reserved.

Here we are —a new year, a fresh chapter, and the first-ever issue of our newly rebranded, Mocha Beauty (formerly Beauty Biz.)

The year is already in full swing, and while January always feels like a blur, now is the time when things start to settle, and routines really take shape.

This is the moment when so many people start to lose steam. They kicked off the year with big goals, bold intentions, and that “this is MY year” energy— only to find themselves slipping back into old habits before February even arrived. Sound familiar?

But here’s the thing—slow and steady wins every time. It’s not about doing everything at once; it’s about showing up every day, in small ways, and being consistent. Whether it’s in life or business, what truly makes a difference isn’t the big leaps— it’s the small, daily actions that add up over time. Having structure, setting yourself up with clear systems, and actually following through. Because when you don’t have clarity, things fall apart.

In business, that means having policies, procedures, and systems that actually make life easier. It’s about being clear on how things are done—for yourself, for your team, and for your clients. And speaking of teams, culture is everything. A strong team doesn’t just happen; it’s built through consistency, communication, and a shared vision. When everyone knows where they stand, what’s expected, and how they contribute, things run smoother. And when people feel valued,

supported, and part of something bigger, that’s when the magic happens.

One of the biggest things I want to remind you of as we move deeper into 2025 is this: People buy from people. It’s not about how perfect your Instagram looks or how polished your marketing is—it’s about connection. Your audience, your clients, your team, your community—they need to feel something real. Showing up authentically, being yourself, and building trust is what creates loyalty. The stronger the relationships, the stronger the results—whether in business or in life.

Instead of looking at the whole year ahead and feeling overwhelmed, just focus on the next step. Time block. Prioritise. Don’t try to do it all at once. And most importantly, be kind to yourself. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about showing up, doing the work, and being real—one small, steady step at a time.

Here’s to staying consistent, building strong foundations, and making 2025 count—together.

Louise May, Editor – Mocha Beauty / Editor in Chief – Mocha Group

louise@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au

@louise_mochagroup @mochabeautymedia

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52 A People Pleaser or an Overzealous Steamroller? By Elle Wilson 53 Oil Me Up, Baby By Will Fennell 54 Boosting Revenue By Dani Boerma

55 OMG… Not Another New Year’s Article By James Vivian BUSINESS

56 Marketing Is Not Always About Selling! By Cait Muir

58 Building Success with Structure: The Key to Staff Retention and Business Growth In 2025 By Elle Huempel

60 Why Every Therapist and Business Owner Needs A Personal Brand – And How To Build It! By Tamara Reid

62 Plan for Success: Why Your Retail Lease Needs a Solid Business Pitch By Kelly Cunningham

64 My Lessons Learned in Coaching Salon Owners in 2025 By Jay Chapman

65 To Expand, Or Not To Expand: That Is The Question By Rachel Diaz

66 Turning Online Trolls into Triumph: Overcoming Jealousy and Negativity Targeted at your Business. By Carly Knowles

68 Beyond The Filter: Redefining Beauty Standards In A Post-Filter World By Keira Maloney

70 Community Is The New Black: Why Building A Loyal Audience Matters More Than Growing Followers! By Kayla Zigic

71 Why Prompts Matter when using AI for your Content By Rachel Medlock

Elevate In 2025: Mindset

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10 Minutes with April Jones

By Louise May

In the ever-evolving world of aesthetics, few industry experts possess the depth of experience and insight that April Jones brings to the table. With a career spanning three decades, she has navigated the transformation of beauty therapy into the high-tech, highly regulated field of medical aesthetics. From her early days in a bustling boutique salon in northern England to her current role in guiding clinics and product companies through growth, compliance, and innovation, April’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Her expertise extends beyond treatments and technology— she helps aesthetic businesses thrive by balancing regulatory demands with cutting-edge advancements, ensuring they remain both compliant and competitive in an increasingly saturated market.

Louise May, Editor of Mocha Hair, recently had the pleasure of sitting down with April for a deep dive into the challenges, opportunities, and future of the aesthetics industry. In just ten minutes, she shared invaluable insights on the business of beauty, the trends shaping the future, and the key factors that separate thriving clinics from those that merely survive.

Let’s get into it.

Can you share a bit about yourself and what inspired you to join the beauty industry? What was your first role, and how has your journey evolved since then?

Growing up in northern England, I always wanted to do beauty therapy and aesthetics. My friend’s mum was a beauty consultant for Elizabeth Arden; to me, she was the most glamorous person in the world! That’s where my journey began…

My first job after beauty college was at a gorgeous boutique salon that took three buses to reach. It was nestled on the coldest, windiest street I can remember. Despite that, it was the warmest, busiest place I’ve ever worked—where multitasking meant applying a face mask before running downstairs for a bikini wax!

Fast-forward 30 years, my focus shifted from traditional beauty therapy to medical aesthetics. Today, I specialise in supporting product companies and medically based businesses, helping them grow, innovate, and enhance their service delivery in this everevolving industry.

Can you tell us what you do today in the industry—what does that look like in practice?

Medical aesthetics is a relatively new and rapidly growing sector within the Australian beauty industry, bringing a complex landscape of regulations, compliance, and ethical considerations. A significant part of my work involves ensuring that businesses operate safely and within legal frameworks, whether through AHPRA, the TGA, or local governing bodies—all of which come with extensive (and often tedious) paperwork.

However, my role isn’t just about compliance. I have the privilege of working on the exciting side of the industry, helping to launch new aesthetic brands, develop growth strategies, and support businesses in scaling successfully. Balancing regulatory requirements with innovation is key, and I thrive on guiding clinics and companies through this evolving landscape—ensuring compliance and sustainable success in the competitive world of medical aesthetics.

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing aesthetic clinics today? And what are some things you feel can be done to navigate these challenges?

Aesthetic clinics face growing challenges, from market saturation and regulatory hurdles to staffing shortages and rising client expectations. With increasing competition, differentiation is key. To stand out, clinics should focus on niche treatments, AI-driven consultations, and personalised patient experiences.

Regulatory compliance remains a challenge with evolving AHPRA and TGA guidelines. Investing in ongoing staff training and strong documentation processes ensures ethical and legal operations. Finding skilled practitioners is also tricky, making professional development and workplace incentives essential for retention.

Client expectations are rising, so loyalty programs, membership models, and AI-powered skin analysis can enhance retention. Offering strategic upsells and treatment packages to maintain profitability can manage pricing pressures. Technology, particularly AI, is crucial in streamlining operations and improving customer experience. Clinics can thrive in a competitive industry by embracing innovation, prioritising compliance, and enhancing client relationships.

Conversely, what do you think is thriving in the industry right now?

Despite challenges, the aesthetics industry is experiencing rapid growth in key areas, driven by innovation and shifting consumer preferences.

• Noninvasive and Preventative Treatments—For long–term skin health, Clients increasingly choose injectables, skin boosters, and regenerative treatments like exosome therapy.

• Personalised and AI-Driven Skincare – AI-powered skin analysis, datadriven product recommendations, and customised treatment plans improve patient outcomes and retention.

• Men’s Aesthetics: More men invest in injectables, laser treatments, and hair restoration, creating a fast-growing market segment.

• Wellness and longevity Clinics—The industry is evolving to include hormonal therapy, regenerative medicine, and nutrition-based treatments, merging aesthetics with overall health.

• Subscription and Membership Models: Clinics are shifting to loyalty programs and treatment plans, which ensure consistent revenue and longterm client engagement. By embracing these trends, clinics can stay ahead in an evolving market.

How do you see the business of aesthetics evolving in the next five years?

The aesthetics industry will significantly advance in the next five years, with technology, consumer preferences, and regulations shaping its evolution.

• AI and Technology Integration – AI-driven skin analysis, personalised treatment planning, and virtual consultations will enhance efficiency and patient outcomes.

• Non-Invasive and Regenerative Treatments – Demand will grow for injectables, bio-remodeling fillers, skin boosters, exosome therapy, and stem cell treatments, shifting the focus to preventative and natural-looking results.

• Aesthetic Wellness and Longevity Clinics – The industry will blend aesthetics with hormonal therapy, regenerative medicine, and nutrition-based treatments, offering a holistic approach to beauty and aging.

• Stricter Regulations—Clinics must comply more with AHPRA, the TGA, and ethical marketing standards. Clinics that embrace innovation, compliance, and personalisation will lead the industry’s future.

From your experience, what separates a clinic that survives from one that thrives?

The difference between a thriving clinic and one that survives lies in strategy, client experience, and innovation.

• Strong Brand Identity – Thriving clinics have a clear brand and unique offerings that set them apart in a competitive market.

• Exceptional Client Experience – Success is about client retention. Clinics that thrive provide personalised care maintain ongoing relationships, and offer loyalty programs, ensuring clients return.

• Innovative Pricing and Profitability—Successful clinics implement strategic pricing, treatment packages, and membership models, boosting revenue while maintaining client trust.

• Investment in Technology – Utilizing AI, advanced treatments, and data-driven marketing keeps clinics ahead of the competition.

• Leadership and Team Development – Thriving clinics invest in staff training, a positive company culture, and effective leadership, ensuring consistent quality and motivation across the team. Clinics embracing these strategies will flourish and maintain sustainable growth.

Many clinic owners focus on treatments and technology, but what business fundamentals should they prioritise for long-term success?

To ensure long-term success, clinic owners should focus on core business fundamentals alongside treatments and technology:

• Financial Management – Proper cash flow management, budgeting, and financial forecasting help maintain the clinic’s economic health and profitability.

• Client Retention – Building loyalty programs and offering personalised care ensures clients keep returning, reducing the need for constant new client acquisition.

• Marketing Strategy – Strong marketing, including social media engagement, SEO, and email marketing, helps attract and retain the right clientele.

• Staff Development and Leadership – Investing in training and leadership cultivates a motivated, skilled team, ensuring consistent high-quality service and client satisfaction.

• Compliance and Legal Framework – Adhering to industry regulations and legal standards keeps the clinic safe and trustworthy for clients and staff.

Clinicians can build a solid foundation for growth and sustained profitability by prioritising these areas.

What’s your ultimate piece of advice for aesthetic business owners who want to build not just a profitable business but a sustainable and respected brand in the industry?

To build a profitable, sustainable, respected aesthetic brand, focus on long-term vision and consistent execution.

• Prioritise Client Trust and Experience—A respected brand is built on trust. To drive loyalty and positive referrals, offer personalised care, follow up on results, and consistently exceed client expectations.

• Invest in Education and Compliance – Keep up with staff training, adhere to regulations, and stay current with industry trends. A skilled, knowledgeable team ensures both safety and innovation.

• Create a Strong Brand Identity – Your brand should reflect your clinic’s values, culture, and expertise. Build an identity based on authenticity, professionalism, and consistent quality, aligning your marketing with these values.

• Plan for Long-Term Growth: Build sustainability through thoughtful financial planning, diverse revenue streams (such as memberships), and adapting to client needs.

By balancing client care, innovation, and financial strategy, you’ll create a clinic that thrives now and in the future.

Bridging the Gap: How Shaun Connolly is Revolutionising the Aesthetic Industry

By Louise May

Shaun Connolly’s career started at 17, commencing his hairdressing apprenticeship in Country WA. Completing his apprenticeship, he moved to Perth WA, working in a number of salons, gaining experience not only in hair but also in the human mind—becoming a confidant, psychiatrist, and general advice giver, as all hairdressers are to their clients!

Shaun then moved to London, completing a makeup artist course to put the full picture together—hair and makeup. Upon returning to Australia, he eventually transitioned into skincare and cosmetics, which led him into a company dealing with cosmeceuticals, working with medi-spas and cosmetic doctors. His career continued to evolve, leading him to work with medical devices in sales and training with doctors, nurses, and clinic practitioners.

During Shaun’s career, he has gained expert knowledge in the aesthetics industry, personally experiencing many technologies and treatments and seeing first-hand how good clinics operate compared to those that fall short. He has encountered countless people confused about what to do to look fresher, remove blemishes, or treat veins but not knowing where to go. Too often, clients end up in clinics that may not have the correct technology to treat their issue and, instead of referring them elsewhere, use what they have—leading to dissatisfaction and, in some cases, a worse outcome for the patient.

This experience over the last 15 years in the aesthetics industry led Shaun to create The Aesthetic Expert, a service designed to recommend the correct treatment options, the best technology for individual needs, and where to go to achieve the best results and service.

Aesthetic Expert: The Ultimate Concierge to the Aesthetic World

The Aesthetic Expert has introduced aestheticexpert.com.au, a platform dedicated to revolutionising the way Australians discover, evaluate, and access cosmetic treatments. The aesthetic treatment industry has seen a surge in demand, but with this growth has come a plethora of misleading information. Many people struggle to differentiate between credible advice and promotional content, resulting in confusion and uncertainty when it comes to choosing the right procedures and practitioners. This lack of transparent information can lead to poor decision-making and dissatisfaction.

The free enterprise nature of the aesthetics industry means that it is not true medical and often puts profits before patients. Marketing and consultations can be misleading, focusing on the bottom line rather than patient satisfaction. Many medical practitioners have moved from general medicine to cosmetics, driven by financial rewards, with some lacking extensive training or years of experience.

Expert Guidance

with Tailored Plans

With the ANZ beauty industry seeing exponential growth in aesthetic treatments, The Aesthetic Expert aims to become the go-to resource for anyone seeking reliable information and professional treatments. The Aesthetic Expert is committed to setting a high standard of transparency, safety, and satisfaction for all users, saving them time and money.

Created for everybody—young, old, male, female, novice, or expert in the cosmetic world—The Aesthetic Expert guides people to the best outcomes and clinics to ensure they get the best results.

Using the latest analytic software, The Aesthetic Expert can identify redness, wrinkles, pigmentation, hydration levels, pores, and more. Based on this analysis, combined with a detailed questionnaire about background and concerns, a fully tailored plan is created. This plan outlines the best technology, treatment options, and the most credible clinics to perform these treatments.

Services Tailored for Every Client

The Aesthetic Expert offers a range of services, catering to various needs and budgets:

• ‘How Old is Your Skin?’: A quick and insightful analysis of skin age vs. biological age.

• ‘A New You’: A complete package incorporating skincare regimes, treatment plans, and nutritional advice.

• ‘Male-Specific Consultation’: Addressing male-specific skin concerns and tailored solutions.

From brown spots, unsightly veins, thinning hair, wrinkles, acne, to body contouring, Shaun provides the best treatment options, product recommendations, and the most credible clinic referrals to ensure satisfaction and safety.

How The Aesthetic Expert Can Benefit Clinics and Spas

As an aesthetic clinic or spa owner, you and your staff are frequently asked about cosmetic treatments—What should I do? Where should I go? The aesthetics industry is complex, and clients often feel overwhelmed by the number of treatments available, unsure which is best suited to their concerns.

The Aesthetic Expert offers clinic and spa owners a unique opportunity to provide value to their clients. By introducing The Aesthetic Expert as a trusted referral partner, clinics can offer a complimentary ‘How Old is Your Skin?’ analysis, completely free to their clients.

Clients simply take a photo, and the software determines their skin’s age compared to their biological age—a fun, informative, and insightful way to engage with beauty in a new way. There is no catch—just real knowledge and a path to better skin.

For clinics and spas looking to enhance their customer experience, Shaun provides branded postcards and newsletter content to introduce The Aesthetic Expert to their client base. This sets clinics apart and strengthens their position as trusted advisors in the aesthetics industry.

Raising the Standard in Aesthetic Transparency

The unregulated nature of the cosmetic industry means that clients are at risk of making uninformed decisions. Many general practitioners pivot to cosmetic treatments without extensive training, and clinics often push what’s on their menu rather than what’s actually best for the patient.

Shaun Connolly is on a mission to change this narrative. Through The Aesthetic Expert, he is setting a new industry standard—one built on transparency, education, and truly personalised solutions.

The ultimate goal? Revolutionising how people view and access aesthetic treatments.

For those navigating the ever-expanding world of aesthetic treatments, Shaun is the expert they never knew they needed—until now.

Join the Movement for Smarter, Safer Aesthetic Choices

If you’re a clinic or spa owner looking to offer your clients trusted, expert-backed guidance in aesthetics, visit AestheticExpert.com. au today and become part of the movement towards smarter, safer, and more informed aesthetic choices.

Alanna Douglas: Elevating Beauty Education Through Innovation

and Accessibility

By Louise May

When it comes to education in the beauty industry, few names shine as brightly as Alanna Douglas. As the 2024 ABIA Educator of the Year -Individual, she has earned a reputation for her unwavering commitment to her students and her ability to make education accessible, engaging, and transformative. Through her unique teaching methodologies, hands-on experience, and passion for continuous learning, Alanna has not only shaped the careers of countless beauty professionals but also redefined what it means to be an educator in today’s modern era.

A Holistic and Inclusive Approach to Education

What sets Alanna apart in the education space is her holistic teaching style, which caters to all types of learners. Whether through written, auditory, or visual methods, she ensures that every student experiences those transformative “aha” moments. Her expertise in working with neurodivergent students, including those with ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, further highlights her ability to adapt and personalise her approach. She also understands the unique challenges faced by busy professionals, mothers, and entrepreneurs, designing flexible learning solutions that fit seamlessly into their schedules.

From small, short courses to comprehensive in-clinic training and one-onone Zoom sessions, Alanna’s educational offerings are as diverse as her student base. With options ranging from free resources to self-paced paid courses, she makes professional growth attainable for all, regardless of their learning style or availability.

Bridging Education and Real-World Experience

Alanna’s passion for beauty education is deeply rooted in her own journey as a beauty professional. As the owner of Gloss Skin & Beauty, a renowned skin and wellness destination she established over 11 years ago, she remains immersed in the ever-evolving landscape of skincare and beauty treatments. This real-world experience allows her to “walk the walk,” ensuring that the education she delivers is not just theoretical but backed by hands-on expertise and industry relevance.

With over 16 years of experience in the industry and a Bachelor of Health Science in Dermal Therapies, Alanna continues to refine her knowledge, blending her clinical expertise with her natural ability to teach. This synergy between education and practice has made her a sought-after mentor for aspiring beauty professionals.

The Birth of Skin Freak Academy

Alanna’s passion for skin health and dermal education led to the creation of Skin Freak Academy in 2020. The academy has since become a hub for industry professionals seeking advanced education in paramedical skin treatments. Her courses, which cover topics like melasma management, exfoliation techniques, IPL treatments, and chemical peels, have gained widespread recognition for their depth and accessibility.

Recognising that beauty education extends beyond just technical skills, she also offers courses focused on consultation techniques, business strategies, and mindset coaching. By equipping her students with both practical and professional development skills, she empowers them to build successful and sustainable careers in the industry.

A Leader in Beauty Business Consulting

Beyond education, Alanna plays a pivotal role in shaping the business acumen of beauty professionals. As a freelance business consultant and presenter, she has worked with some of the industry’s most reputable names, including Murad and Professional Beauty Solutions. Through workshops, seminars, and personalised coaching, she helps skin clinics and beauty businesses refine their strategies, optimise client management, and enhance service delivery.

Her ability to blend business expertise with technical knowledge makes her an invaluable asset to salon owners and beauty entrepreneurs looking to elevate their brands and expand their reach.

Keeping Up with Industry Trends and Innovations

Education is a journey, not a destination—and Alanna embodies this philosophy through her continuous pursuit of knowledge. As a member of the Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians and the Australian Beauty Industry Committee, she actively participates in industry events, monthly webinars, and professional development retreats.

Her collaborations with dermatologists, plastic surgeons, physiotherapists, and wound management specialists further enrich her expertise, allowing her to provide her students with cutting-edge knowledge and best practices in skincare. Through partnerships with Professional Beauty Solutions and leading cosmeceutical brands, she stays ahead of advancements in skincare technology, ensuring that her teachings remain current and impactful.

Shaping the Industry Through Media and Community Engagement

Alanna’s influence extends beyond the classroom, reaching thousands through her podcast, social media platforms, and contributions to industry publications. Through her free podcast, she delves into complex skin conditions, treatment methodologies, and professional insights, offering valuable knowledge to beauty professionals worldwide.

Her “Guess the Skin Condition” social media series fosters an interactive learning environment, challenging her audience to engage in differential diagnosis exercises. Meanwhile, her weekly “theratips” provide bite-sized motivation and practical strategies for overcoming challenges in the industry.

As a regular contributor to Beauty Biz Magazine, she shares her expertise on industry trends, best practices, and professional development, further cementing her role as a thought leader in beauty education.

Commitment to Accessibility and Student Success

True to her mission of making education accessible, Alanna offers financial assistance through scholarships and extended payment plans. With each live course launch, at least one student benefits from an extended payment plan or part-scholarship, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder learning opportunities.

She also integrates innovative tools like a resource library, daily affirmations, and structured feedback systems to enhance the student experience. By prioritising student engagement, accountability, and support, she has cultivated a learning environment where students feel motivated and empowered to succeed.

Overcoming Challenges and Driving Results

One of the challenges Alanna has faced as an educator is ensuring that students commit to their learning amidst their busy schedules. To address this, she has implemented pre-scheduled study times, additional reminders, and personalised follow-ups for missed sessions. These strategies have led to increased attendance, improved engagement, and ultimately, better learning outcomes for her students.

By fostering a culture of accountability and support, she has helped her students stay on track and achieve tangible progress in their careers.

The impact of her education is evident in the success stories of her students, many of whom have gone on to build thriving businesses, master advanced skincare techniques, and transform their clients’ lives through expert beauty treatments.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Alanna plans to expand her expertise by studying naturopathy, integrating holistic health principles into her teachings. By bridging dermal science with naturopathic practices, she aims to offer a more comprehensive approach to skin health education, further enhancing the value she provides to her students.

Her vision for the future is clear—to continue revolutionising beauty education, breaking barriers to learning, and empowering professionals to excel in an ever-evolving industry.

Alanna Douglas is more than an educator—she is an industry trailblazer, a mentor, and a champion of accessible education. Her dedication to her students, her commitment to innovation, and her ability to adapt to the changing landscape of beauty education have made her an invaluable force in the industry. As the 2024 ABIA Educator of the Year - Individual, she stands as a testament to the power of education in transforming careers, businesses, and lives.

Through her work, she continues to shape the future of beauty education, ensuring that every aspiring beauty professional, regardless of their background or circumstances, has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.

The Award-Winning Success of Skin Correctives .

By Louise May

The ANZ Beauty Industry Awards (ABIA) represent the pinnacle of excellence in the beauty industry, celebrating those who go beyond conventional service to deliver exceptional client care, results-driven treatments, and industry leadership. In 2024, Skin Correctives proudly claimed the ABIA award for NSW/ACT Best Clinic - 5 Treatment Rooms or More—a well-deserved accolade for a business that exemplifies innovation, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to skin health.

At the helm of Skin Correctives is Karen Meiring de Gonzalez, a visionary leader whose expertise and passion have shaped the clinic into a sanctuary for skin transformation. Established in 2011, the clinic has become a beacon of trust for clients across the Shellharbour/Illawarra NSW region and beyond, attracting those in search of advanced skincare solutions that deliver tangible, life-changing results.

A Clinic Built on Excellence

From the moment clients step into Skin Correctives, they are welcomed into an environment where luxury meets professionalism. The clinic is both stylish and functional, with spacious treatment rooms that offer a sense of calm and relaxation. Every aspect of the clinic’s operations has been meticulously curated to enhance the client experience, from the warm and welcoming reception to the carefully structured consultation process that ensures each treatment plan is uniquely tailored to individual skin concerns.

A key component of Skin Correctives’ success lies in its uncompromising approach to quality and safety. The clinic proudly holds ABIC SafeSkin™ certification, an industry-first achievement that underscores its commitment to best practices. Key considerations include business practices, team qualifications, regulatory and safety requirements, employment and workplace obligations, training and skill standards, and clinic compliance through a walk-through assessment.

A Personalised Approach to Skin

What sets Skin Correctives apart is its bespoke client journey. From the very first consultation, every individual receives a completely customised skin health plan, meticulously designed to address their unique concerns. This tailored approach ensures that treatments are not only effective but also deeply supportive, with therapists guiding clients through every stage of their journey.

Each member of the Skin Correctives team is a highly trained skin therapist, passionate about achieving results that empower their clients.

The team undergoes continuous education and training in the latest advancements in skincare technologies, ensuring they remain at the forefront of industry knowledge. Their holistic, sciencebacked approach extends beyond treatments, offering nutritional supplementation and professional skincare recommendations to support skin health from within.

A Thriving Culture of Professionalism and Care

Behind every thriving business is a strong, dedicated team, and Skin Correctives is no exception. The clinic’s workplace culture is built on shared values set by the team, including integrity, commitment, and excellence. These values are reflected in the team’s daily interactions, team bonding retreats, and ongoing professional development programs.

Karen understands that happy, well-supported employees are the key to providing exceptional client care. Competitive salaries, generous commission structures, and performance-based bonuses ensure her team remains motivated and valued. The investment in team- building activities, annual bonding retreats, and professional recognition programs, further cements Skin Correctives as not only an award-winning clinic but also a fantastic place to work.

Beyond Beauty: Community and Industry Leadership

Skin Correctives is more than just a skin clinic—it is a business that gives back. The clinic is an active member of the local community, supporting charities and initiatives that uplift women. One of its most notable contributions is its annual ‘What Women Want’ event and fundraiser, which raises funds and awareness for the Dress For Success program, helping disadvantaged women prepare for the workforce.

The event brings together local businesses and the wider community, and it was even sponsored and attended by other local skin and beauty businesses. Last year saw industry expert Fiona Tuck as the keynote speaker, and Circadia Skincare Australia and Saint Minerals also generously supporting the event as Platinum Sponsors, demonstrating a strong sense of collaboration within the industry.

Karen’s dedication to the industry extends beyond her clinic, as she actively contributes by volunteering her time as an ABIC (Aesthetic Beauty Industry Council) Councillor and serving on the ABIC Self-Regulation and Education Committee. Her passion for strengthening the industry is reflected in her participation in key industry discussions, including speaking on the panel at the Sydney Beauty Expo on Safeguarding Your Business and Career Amidst a Changing Industry Landscape and at APAN’s Thriving Aesthetic Conference on Rising Above Business Volatility in 2024.

Adapting, Growing, and Leading

Like any business, Skin Correctives has faced challenges—but rather than being setbacks, these experiences have only strengthened the clinic’s resilience. In January 2023, Karen made the strategic decision to consolidate the Wollongong location with the Shellharbour clinic, ensuring staff retention and continued profitability.

Another testament to Skin Correctives’ leadership and adaptability was its pioneering role in the ABIC SafeSkin™ certification. Being the first clinic in Australia to achieve this status was no easy feat—it required rigorous documentation, an in-depth assessment, and a steadfast commitment to industry-leading standards. By achieving this milestone, Skin Correctives has set a benchmark for safety and professionalism, encouraging other clinics to follow suit.

Further reinforcing their commitment to industry standards and education, the Skin Correctives team also volunteered to work at the ABIC stand at the Sydney Beauty Expo, advocating for SafeSkin™ Certification and continuing to be SafeSkin™ Ambassadors. Their efforts highlight a shared passion for elevating industry standards, ensuring safer practices, and contributing to the growth and professionalism of the skin and beauty sector.

A Legacy of Award-Winning Excellence

The ABIA 2024 win is just the latest in a long list of accolades for Skin Correctives. Skin Correctives is the proud home to six ABIA awards. Karen herself was named Businessperson of the Year at the 2023 Local Business Awards, a testament to her outstanding leadership and contribution to the industry. The clinic has also received multiple industry awards recognising its exceptional treatments, team culture, and business success.

Last year, Skin Correctives was also deeply honoured to receive the Circadia Skincare Australia Award for Top Australian Clinic 4+ Therapists, while Kayla Murphy won Circadia Skin Therapist of the Year. As part of this recognition, Karen & Kayla were flown to the USA to attend the Circadia Connect Conference in Philadelphia. It was an incredible experience and one of the most unforgettable moments of their trip was visiting the Circadia Headquarters in Leesport, Pennsylvania, where the skincare formulations are developed, tested, and produced on-site. Karen reflects on the experience: “Being able to witness first-hand the science behind the products we use every day was incredible. Circadia’s legacy in the industry is remarkable, and their commitment to innovation and education continues to inspire us.” However, awards are not what define Skin Correctives. What truly sets it apart is the impact it has on its clients—restoring confidence transforming lives, and setting new standards for the beauty industry.

The clinic’s reputation for achieving remarkable skin transformations is evident in the compelling before-and-after results showcased across its digital platforms. These results speak to the clinic’s commitment to science-backed, results-driven skincare, ensuring that every treatment delivers real, visible benefits.

Encouraging Others to Enter Industry Awards

Skin Correctives will not be entering the ABIA awards this year, but Karen strongly encourages other individuals and clinics to do so.

“The process of entering awards truly supports growth in all areas of your business. It’s not always just about winning. It’s about putting yourself out there, reflecting on your achievements, and benchmarking yourself alongside other incredible businesses.

We’ve entered many awards that we haven’t won, but we’ve also gathered some incredible accolades and had amazing opportunities come our way. Our team is so incredibly proud of being an award-winning team, and it really does push us to strive for excellence every single day. Even being a finalist is a huge honour when you’re among the best in the industry.”

Looking to the Future

With the ABIA trophy now proudly displayed, Skin Correctives is not slowing down. The clinic continues to innovate, grow, and push industry boundaries, with exciting developments on the horizon. From expanding its educational initiatives to advancing skin treatment and epilation technologies, the clinic remains committed to raising the bar for professional skincare in Australia.

For Karen and her team, the mission remains clear: to provide unparalleled skin solutions, foster a thriving and supportive team environment, and advocate for industry-wide excellence. With an ever-growing legacy of success, Skin Correctives is not just a clinic—it is a benchmark of excellence, inspiring both clients and professionals alike. Winning the ABIA 2024 award for NSW/ACT Best Clinic (5 Treatment Rooms or More) is an incredible achievement, but for Skin Correctives, it is simply a reflection of the passion, dedication, and expertise that have defined the business for over a decade. With a team that genuinely cares, a leader who inspires, and a commitment to raising industry standards, there is no doubt that Skin Correctives will continue to be a trailblazer in Australian beauty for years to come.

@skincorrectives

Karen Meiring de Gonzalez

Karla McDiarmid: 2024 Abia Humanitarian of the Year & The Wombats She’s Helping

By Louise May

At the 2024 ABIA Awards, Karla McDiarmid, owner of Macquarie MediSpa, was honoured as Humanitarian of the Year—a recognition of her unwavering commitment to helping others.

From supporting local and national charities to organising fundraisers, sponsoring schools, and volunteering her time, Karla’s generosity knows no bounds.

One of the most heartwarming moments of the evening came when Circadia CEO Michael Pugliese, moved by Karla’s story and selfless dedication, pledged a $10,000 donation to support a cause close to her heart—Kanimbla Wombats. This generous act has already made a significant impact, providing much-needed support to help care for orphaned and injured wombats.

Kanimbla Wombats: A Cause Close to Karla’s Heart

Beyond her extensive humanitarian work, Karla has also dedicated herself to wildlife conservation, working closely with Kanimbla Wombats. This grassroots organisation, run by Anna and Melinda, focuses on rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned and injured wombats, relying entirely on donations to continue their work.

Wombats are an iconic part of Australia’s wildlife, but they face numerous threats, including habitat destruction, road accidents, and mange—a parasitic disease that causes extreme suffering and, if untreated causes a very slow and painful death. The work that Kanimbla Wombats does is vital in ensuring the survival of these animals, but with limited resources, they often struggle to provide the necessary care.

This generous donation has helped in multiple ways:

• Care for orphaned wombats: With eight orphaned wombats currently in care, the funds help cover the $600 per month needed for milk and supplements.

• Mange treatment: Each three-month treatment costs $200 per wombat, ensuring that more wombats receive the care they need.

• Sustenance for recovering wombats: Food expenses for juvenile and transitioning wombats add up to $100 per month.

• Medical advancements: A microscope has been purchased, allowing for research and routine health checks.

• The Circadia Shelter: Plans are underway to build a new protective shelter, aptly named The Circadia Shelter, providing a safer environment for wombats and their carers.

Anna and Melinda from Kanimbla Wombats, expressed their heartfelt gratitude:

“Your donation has made such a difference to us. It allows us to keep doing what we do best—rescuing, rehabilitating, and helping these animals return to the wild. We are beyond grateful and excited about this ongoing relationship.”

This partnership between Circadia Australia and Kanimbla Wombats highlights the power of corporate philanthropy in wildlife conservation, showing that businesses can be catalysts for meaningful change.

Catching Up with Karla:

Following her well-deserved recognition and the incredible donation from Circadia, we had the chance to catch up with Karla McDiarmid to reflect on the award, her passion for philanthropy, and what this means for Kanimbla Wombats.

Karla with Mocha Group Art DIirector, Kellie Woodhead

How did it feel to be named the 2024 ABIA Humanitarian of the Year, and what does this recognition mean to you personally?

I am still in shock 6 months on! That evening in Sydney at The Star - was surreal! When I saw my photos up on the screen – I remember looking at Faye Murray and saying, ‘you knew!!” I had no idea... it was an incredible surprise and shock all in one!

Being recognised for what I do is a hard pill to swallow because you don’t volunteer to be thanked, you fundraise to help others by choice, you give a hand up every day to others, so to me it just comes naturally, and I like to treat others how I would like to be treated. The recognition is lovely, but it does take me a little while to process and accept it as there are so many other wonderful volunteers out there doing wonderful things to help others.

Giving back has always been a core value of yours—can you share a bit about your journey and what drives your passion for philanthropy?

I grew up in a family that always gives back! My grandad Rex McDiarmid was a publican for over 49 years and was on Bathurst council 15 years and he only had 1 leg, so he was an inspirational businessman & donated many hours to supporting community and also the Royal Far Wes charity for kids. My dad is a returned serviceman and has volunteered with many charities and just completed 25 years in Legacy for war widows. My mum dedicated her whole career to education and was awarded a Public Service Medal with Stewart House very close to her heart as the charity she supported annually to help country kids have a holiday each year.

My sister has been a part of Girl Guides for over 40 years and volunteers weekly with Guides as well so volunteering and helping others is definitely in my blood. Living in regional communities I believe is also a big part of it. I am a proud Bathurstian, and you will find many incredible and generous people donating their times in country towns – it’s just a way of life in the country. I hope to inspire younger generations coming through and my team to help give back and volunteer every day more. If you are ever bored or lonely in life, I guarantee becoming a volunteer will change your life!

I remember when I joined Lions – they are the most wonderful kind and caring humans where you will make beautiful supportive friends.

Why did you choose Kanimbla Wombats as the recipient of Circadia’s $10,000 donation?

During 2019/2020 we had to call WIRES because a really sick wombat had walked onto my parents property. Anna who is ‘Kanimbla Wombats’ and also was a WIRES volunteer drove to us, one way 1.5 hours – volunteering her time – so I would walk with her, and I love animals, so it interested me to learn about mange, and to save her driving the 3 hr return trip, I completed my WIRES training, and she taught me how I could be treating the sick wombat too.

Whilst the business was closed in lockdown, it gave me a purpose and exercise all at the same time, as trying to find and help this terribly sick animal. Anna taught me a lot and so I then would take on other wombats that got called in with early morning walks or after work walks to try and treat the wombats which need a weekly dose of medication for 3+ months to try and help kill the mites that are burrowing in under their skin causing them to basically scratch themselves to death! It’s the most horrendous thing to see and as I always say, we wouldn’t let a human skin look like that, so why are we letting it affect our native animals.

What impact has this donation already made for Kanimbla Wombats, and what are some of the most urgent needs it has helped address?

The donation by Circadia was just INCREDIBLE! Kanimbla wombats is a very small quiet achieving duo with Anna and Mel going out on the road to help many species of native animals and wombats in particular, but Anna will have sometimes up to 15+ wombats she is travelling to across regional NSW to treat mange on farms & 4 or 5 wombats on her own property being nursed back to health, which when it’s a baby wombat is a full time job!. Often the mums have been hit by cars so it can be a year + until the baby is big enough to go out into the real world on its own.

Anna doesn’t get to have holidays because these big babies can’t be left alone and she also has a ‘hospital pen’ for the sick wombats which can be mange, dog attacks or even attacks by other wombats, that need to be nursed back to care before releasing. This donation is already going towards food for wombats, petrol to help rescue other injured animals, it will go towards wombat enclosures and will help Kanimbla Wombats with creating more educational books and calendars, which will help them to continue to raise more awareness about our native animals and mange.

The Circadia Shelter is an exciting initiative—can you share more about what this will mean for the wombats in care and the rescue efforts?

Anna is already planning the upgrade of the enclosures and something as simple as a little roof in an area so she can sit under cover whilst bottle feeding baby wombats& provide the sick wombats a safer area to come outside.

Upgrading the fences that they try to dig under, but also helping to build safer ‘nests’ for the wombats when they are sick, so they are insulated, with a roof and comfortable in their home whilst they are getting better.

What advice would you give to others who want to make a difference but don’t know where to start?

Find causes that are close to your heart. Research how you can help and find mentors.

I recommend every business owner and therapist to join a local community club such as Lions or Rotary, complete you Lifeline Crisis Supporter Training ( it is so valuable as an employer but also for our clients) and if you love animals – reach out to your states animal wildlife rescue agencies – volunteers are DESPERATELY needed in every sector. If you live in a capital city you can volunteer 1 day a month even at your Ronald McDonald House – that is very special too – I honestly cannot wait to retire one day because then I will get to do so much volunteering to help others – it truly fills your cup and makes you feel amazing being able to help others less fortunate & then it just becomes part of your world and will come natural every day to help others in need because it’s a part of your DNA

@karla_mcdiarmid @circadia_aus @kanimblawombats

Circadia Ceo Michale Pugliese

Meet the 2024 Amy Williams

Amy Williams

Amy Anderson’s journey into the beauty industry began at just 15 years old, working at Priceline after school and on weekends. Over the next eight years, she worked her way up to a beauty advisor role, where she discovered a passion for skincare, makeup, and helping customers find the right routines.

Despite initially enrolling in a business degree in marketing, she realised six months before graduating that it wasn’t the right path for her. Instead, she took a leap of faith and enrolled in a Diploma of Beauty Therapy, determined to pursue a career in aesthetics.

From day one of her diploma, Amy had a clear vision—she wanted to become a cosmetic injector. Though she was told that nursing was the required path, she didn’t let that deter her. The diploma became the foundation for all the additional training she would go on to undertake. Gaining experience in high-end clinics, managing multiple businesses, and even preparing for a move to the UK to work with beauty students, Amy’s plans took an unexpected turn when the COVID-19 pandemic halted her overseas move.

After five years of managing and working in clinics, she decided to return to study and enrolled in a Bachelor of Nursing, fully committed to her goal of becoming an injector. While balancing university, placement, and work, she began offering treatments from her small apartment living room to friends and family. As demand grew, she moved her setup to her parents’ home, where they fully supported her dream.

By the time she finished her degree, Amy had built a thriving clientele and was at a crossroads. With new TGA regulations looming and overhead costs ahead, she took a chance and rented a space in a local salon. In July 2023, she rebranded to Aeon Aesthetics, with the vision of growing beyond a solo business. In just over a year, she has expanded to a team of four, opened additional treatment rooms, become a qualified cosmetic nurse injector, gotten married, bought a house, and signed a lease for her very own clinic, which at this very moment is under construction!

Mocha Beauty Editor Louise May chats with Amy about her journey in the industry, the excitement of being a Beauty Squad Winner, and what the future holds.

What made you want to be a Beauty Therapist?

Working at Priceline as a beauty advisor, I loved talking to clients about their skin and having them ask me about which products to use. It sparked a passion for helping others but also wanting to understand the function of our skin and know the how and why.

Amy with Maria Cocciolone, ceo of inskincosmedics

What kind of treatment is your favourite and why?

Can I say all of them? For skin, it would be our Pro-Microneedling! I am obsessed with how it can treat and repair so many skin concerns when the skin is prepped properly. I do my own at least every 6-8 weeks. Although I’m also impartial to the ‘high maintenance to be low maintenance’ with getting my lashes done and brows regularly dyed.

How do you manage life and work balance?

This was a real struggle for me in 2024, so in 2025 I’ve set stronger boundaries for myself to ensure I don’t burn out. I now have a work number, I keep my Instagram notifications switched off, even if I don’t have holidays booked, I work eight weeks on, one week off, and I’ve cut back my client hours to 3.5 days, with one full day on admin and half a day training and touching base with my team. It’s been difficult to manage the balance whilst the business has been in such a growth period, but I’m setting those firmer boundaries heading into 2025, and I’m already feeling better about it. Then, on my weekends I can enjoy my time with family and friends, guilt free!

Who inspires you in the beauty industry and why?

Before owning my own clinic, I was very sheltered from the beauty industry, but since being more exposed I can honestly say almost all the people I meet inspire me. I have loved meeting people who have paved the way forward in our industry and created huge waves to influence the way our industry is perceived and growing. I remember in my early Diploma hearing ‘this is only the foundation for what is out there.’ I will never forget that because this industry is so vast and get also such a close group of passionate and inspiring people. I’ve been a beauty therapist for 10 years, and I honestly feel like I’m just dipping my toes into this industry.

If you could spend a day with anyone from a business or lifestyle mentorship perspective, who would it be and why?

I would love to be mentored by Tamara Reid, she’s already done so much in her career and is still creating waves and changes for how we view our industry. She’d be a fantastic mentor for unlocking possibilities.

How important is training and education for you?

Training and education are paramount to me, but also my team. Clients come to us as the experts, so it’s important to stay up to date with protocols, available data and clinicals. I think since becoming a nurse this has levelled up my drive to use evidence-based practices for my clients.

Can you tell us a little about what you are most looking forward to being a member of the Beauty Squad team?

Networking! Working elsewhere I felt sheltered from what this expanse of industry had to offer. Now I’ve been dipping my toes in, I am excited to make connections with like-minded individuals including my housemates, business owners and professionals.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time?

I’ve always wanted to go down education, I love empowering others to feel confident in themselves as therapists, but also as people. Knowledge is power and I don’t believe in gatekeeping industry secrets. I’d love to be still working 1-2 days on the floor with clients, as this fills my cup, but managing a successful, empowered team, whilst working with others in the industry to educate other therapists and bring the best for clients.

FUN SNAPSHOT

Fave Place to Holiday: Beach every time! Something about being near the water is relaxing. Early morning walks, beach swimming and a good book. The perfect combo.

Fave Drink: almond iced latte! A must have for the long clinic hours

Fave type of Music/song: Am I too cliché if I say Taylor Swift? It’s all the clinic would play if I wasn’t worried it would scare clients off

If you weren’t a Beauty Therapist, you would be... in marketing, or probably a skincare rep.

@aeonaesthetics.au

•

CORNEOTHERAPY AND ADVANCED AESTHETIC SKIN NEEDLING CONFERENCES: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SKIN HEALTH

The professional skin industry is glowing with anticipation, as two of its most significant educational events; the Corneotherapy Conference and the Advanced Aesthetic Skin Needling Conference, prepare to host two industry-first events in the science of skin health and advanced treatment modalities.

Taking place on the 9th and 10th of June 2025 at the beautiful Noosa Springs, QLD, these back-to-back conferences are a must-attend for skin professionals dedicated to staying ahead of industry trends.

The Corneotherapy Conference will provide a comprehensive understanding of corneotherapy principles and their practical applications, as well as explore tools and insights to implement effective skin solutions that resonate with clients. Attendees will leave full of inspiration and strategies to grow your business, or enhance your educational offerings, and connections with industry peers and leaders who share your passion for skin health.

The Advanced Aesthetic Skin Needling Conference is the first event dedicated exclusively to exploring the full potential of skin needling. The conference provides a comprehensive introduction to the treatment, from understanding its science to learning how to perform it confidently. Witness cutting-edge techniques in action as Lia explains the nuances that distinguish exceptional treatments. Learn to address real-world client concerns, from acne scars to signs of ageing, with precision and confidence.

Both conferences are led by Lia Trebilcock, a global educator with over 20 years of experience, this one-of-a-kind conference goes where no other training has dared to go. Bridging the gap between theoretical and practical education, you’ll leave with a comprehensive understanding of skin needling and the skills to turn that knowledge into success—for your clients, business, and career.

Learn more and secure your tickets today at www.skineducationinternational.com

SÉAN HARRINGTON HAS JUST BEEN ANNOUNCED AS WINNER OF THE TOP 100 INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE AWARD 2025.

ELEMIS CEO & Co-Founder Séan Harrington has been announced as winner of the Top 100 Influential People Award 2025 for Séan’s incredible impact in Business & Entrepreneurism.

The Top 100 Most Influential People 2025 awards shine a spotlight on the most dynamic and powerful leaders who drive success and influence from all sectors, who are at the top of their game and have made a positive impact on society.

Séan Harrington has transformed the British beauty industry and established ELEMIS as the UK’s top luxury skincare brand. With over 30 years of leadership, Séan has expanded ELEMIS from a small British business into a globally recognised brand, available in more than 2000 locations across 110 countries.

Known for his visionary approach, Séan combines entrepreneurial insight with a commitment to quality and sustainability. Séan’s strategic initiatives have been pivotal in launching and significantly expanding ELEMIS’s presence in challenging, highly competitive beauty markets like Asia and the USA.

His efforts include establishing the brand’s first APAC office in Hong Kong, a critical move to ELEMIS’s success within the competitive Asian beauty landscape. He has driven impressive growth through eco-conscious product development and formed impactful partnerships with influential global retailers, enabling ELEMIS to thrive and build a strong foothold in these hard-to-crack international markets.

Under his direction, ELEMIS has achieved B Corp certification and is making good progress in achieving ambitious ESG targets, including reducing carbon emissions, pollution, water consumption and waste in its value chain. ELEMIS has launched its packing improvement programme focused on circularity and premiumisation.

His influence extends to charitable initiatives, with partnerships that support mental health, women’s empowerment, and environmental conservation. Honoured with the CEW Special Industry Award for his contributions, Séan is widely regarded as a leader who inspires both industry and community impact.

His dedication to promoting British excellence and driving ELEMIS’s global presence has set new standards in premium skincare, positioning ELEMIS as a trusted, purpose-led brand that exemplifies integrity and forward-thinking in the beauty industry. www.au.elemis.com

DR MARTINA LAVERY BRINGS MENOPAUSAL LIP RESTORATION TO THE FOREFRONT

When it comes to aesthetics, one size does not fit all—especially for peri- and menopausal patients experiencing significant facial ageing changes. Recognising this gap, Dr Martina Lavery, one of Australia’s most respected dentists and aesthetic practitioners, is launching her highly anticipated masterclass in 2025. The event will equip clinicians with the skills needed to deliver personalised, confidence-boosting lip treatments for menopausal patients.

“For too long, the aesthetics industry has defaulted to cookie-cutter training solutions, but menopausal patients have unique anatomical and emotional needs,” says Dr Lavery. “This masterclass is about meeting those needs with empathy and precision while empowering practitioners to advance their craft.”

This one-day, in-person masterclass, taking place in Sydney, offers practitioners an in-depth understanding of natural-looking lip treatments for menopausal patients, focusing on the lips and the supporting structures of the lower face.

Dr Lavery emphasises that this demographic represents a growing yet often overlooked aesthetic patient base. “Menopausal patients face unique changes in their skin,lips and facial structure. They seek trust, understanding, and results that make them feel like them feel like a version of themselves again,” she explains.

The masterclass begins with a live demonstration by Dr Lavery, followed by a comprehensive exploration of lip anatomy and facial assessment techniques. Practitioners then move to hands-on practice with silicone dummies, honing their approach to appropriate treatments. The course also equips participants with strategies for conducting facial assessments, patient suitability evaluations, and effective consultation techniques to build trust and manage patient expectations.

Ensuring practitioner confidence and clarity, attendees also gain access to an online portal featuring pre-class resources, including foundational theory and study materials. Post-class, they can revisit the content and opt for one-to-one mentorship to further refine their skills.

“This masterclass bridges the gap between technical skill and emotional intelligence,” explains Dr Lavery. “By mastering these techniques, practitioners set themselves apart in a competitive industry, tapping into a market that not only demands specialised support but also has the financial means to invest in it.” Dr Lavery’s masterclass sets a new benchmark in aesthetic education, combining technical precision with the emotional intelligence essential for treating clients navigating this stage of life. This innovative program allows injectors to refine their skills, broaden their client base, and create a meaningful impact in their practices.

Enrolment for the Lip Masterclass for Menopause Affected Patients is now open, with limited spots available. martina-lavery.mykajabi.com/homepage

KARLA MCDIARMID NAMED 2025 BATHURST CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

Karla McDiarmid is the owner of Macquarie Medi Spa which she started over 22 years ago in Bathurst when she was only 21 years of age. After leaving school at age 16, Karla is now recognised as one of the skin care industry leaders not only locally but also nationally. She has represented Bathurst through business on a national and international level and was named global winner Best Spa Manager of the Year in 2023/24, twice named the Bathurst Business of the year and has previously won the Youth Bathurst Business Leader Award.

Karla was named the 2024 Humanitarian of the Year at the Australian Beauty Industry Awards for her volunteering and charitable work. Karla regularly volunteers at schools educating young people about skin health, careers and wellbeing whilst also being a business mentor to other business owners.

Karla has donated her time organising the last four Fashions on the Field at the Bathurst Thoroughbred Racing Club major meetings held twice a year. She also volunteers for many charities including Wires, Lifeline, Lions and supports events and charities such as Ronald McDonald house, CEO sleepout, Streetheart, Share the Dignity, Daffodil Cottage, Girl Guides, local schools and charity auctions.

A huge congratulations Karla McDiarmid, for being named Bathurst Citizen of the Year at the Australia Day Awards Ceremony.

CIRCADIA AUSTRALIA WINS TOP INTERNATIONAL GROWTH AWARD—TWO YEARS RUNNING!

Late last year, Circadia Connect brought together nearly 500 skincare professionals, distributors, and industry leaders for two inspiring days of education and celebration. Set in the stunning Crystal Tea Room in Philadelphia, the event highlighted innovation, science, and community in the skincare industry.

A key moment came when celebrity entrepreneurs Giuliana and Bill Rancic took the stage. They shared motivational insights and encouraged attendees to overcome challenges and embrace growth.

Circadia Australia bought a team of 14, including top-performing accounts, to join the event. Rachael Stevens, CEO of Circadia Australia, was invited to share her expertise on a panel, further showcasing her industry leadership. Rachael and Phil Stevens proudly accepted the Top International Growth Award for the second year in a row, celebrating their incredible success and impact in the global skincare market.

This consecutive win is a testament to Circadia Australia’s passion, dedication, and industry excellence, inspiring continued innovation and growth.

www.circadia.com.au

Rachel Stevens with with Juliana & Bill Rancic and Michael Pugliese.

• INDUSTRY NEWS

MODELROCK COLLABS WITH CELEBRITY MUA MERTON MUAREMI FOR SALON EDITION LASH CLUSTERS CAMPAIGN

MODELROCK has teamed up with talented celebrity hair & makeup artist, Merton Muaremi, to showcase the versatility of the brand’s new Salon Edition Lash Clusters.

Available in 6 different categories – Everyday, Thick & Fluffy, Textured, Petite, Espresso & Dramatic – each cluster is meticulously handmade to ensure lightweight comfort and durability. With proper care, these lashes are also reusable, offering bot quality and sustainability in eyelash enhancement. The clusters take lash customisation to the next level which is exactly what Merton was able to create within his stunning looks!

Says Merton, “The brief was to truly showcase how versatile the lashes are, and I did so by creating two distinct looks that represent the different styles of the lashes. We wanted to go beyond just highlighting one lash style and instead feature both a more natural look and a bolder, more dramatic one. The model chosen – Wren Arkose - was ideal because she could complement both lash styles effortlessly, allowing us to showcase the range.”

Whether you desire a full voluminous look, a wispy textured look, a delicate natural look, or amore dramatic look to blend beautifully with your natural lashes, there is a cluster style to suit everyone!

“For the campaign, I created a soft glam makeup look. The goal was to keep the makeup balanced and not overpower the lashes, allowing them to be the true focus of the look. The result was a chic, understated style that still had enough definition to highlight the lashes without competing with them,” says Merton.

“I love how versatile The Luxe Edit Clusters are. They offer a wide variety of lash styles, from natural to ultradramatic, so they can work with any makeup look. Whether you’re going for a soft, everyday vibe or something bolder and more glamorous, there’s a lash cluster for every mood and occasion.”

Renowned for producing cutting-edge and innovative products that don’t follow trends but instigates them, MODELROCK truly encourages everyone to embrace their distinctive style and individuality; the collaboration with Merton is a true reflection of this philosophy.

“I absolutely love this new campaign that Merton has created for us. As a brand we love the art of collaboration and witnessing how our creatives bring to life our lashes, playing with all the different styles for different looks,” says MODELROCK CEO & Creative Director, Raelene Mara.

“As Merton has shown, our Salon Edition Cluster Lashes provide so much variety and a beautiful addition to every makeup look - we are so excited to bring this amazing collection to all MODELROCK Lash Lovers!” www.modelrocklashes.com

THE 2025 ANZ BEAUTY INDUSTRY AWARDS (ABIA) ARE HERE!

Since 2011, the ABIA has been the ultimate benchmark of excellence for the Australian and New Zealand beauty and makeup industry, celebrating creativity, business success, and innovation.

Key Dates for 2025

• Entries Open: NOW!

• Entry Deadline: 26/05/25

• Finalists Announced: 23/06/25

• Gala Night: 17/08/25 (following the Sydney Beauty Expo)

Judged by an independent panel of media, PR, and business experts, these awards are your chance to showcase your talent, creativity, and excellence on a state and national level.

Ready to take your place among the industry’s best? Enter now!

www.mochagroup.com.au

THE INDUSTRY’S CONTENT CO-PILOT HAS ARRIVED WITH SALON SCRIBE AI

Rachel Medlock has just turned up the volume on how the professional beauty industry uses AI. Introducing Salon Scribe AI: a collection of AI-powered content tools tailored specifically for salon, spa, and clinic owners. Created by Rachel Medlock Copywriting, this suite of GPTs is here to cut through the generic fluff and ensure your brand sounds like you and not a robot on its lunch break.

For Rachel, this isn’t just about riding the AI wave. “I’m obsessed with how technology can make our lives easier, but only if we know how to use it,” she explains. “AI can whip up copy faster than you can say ‘serum,’ but without the right direction, it’s going to sound as bland and let’s be real, our industry isn’t about blending in - it’s about standing out.”

Salon Scribe AI was born from Rachel’s decade of experience in the professional beauty industry, where she noticed a growing gap in how salon owners were engaging with AI platforms like ChatGPT.

While AI can be a game-changer for saving time and brainstorming ideas, Rachel observed that the tools often lacked the nuance, personality, and depth needed to truly reflect a brand’s voice.

“I saw the same issue repeatedly - people were using AI, but the output sounded robotic or, worse, like everyone else. That’s not what beauty brands are about. They’re about connection, personality, and trust, and Salon Scribe AI was created to make sure those elements shine through.”

At the heart of the Salon Scribe AI suite is The Write Treatment, a foundational GPT designed to guide business owners through a series of in-depth questions about their brand’s personality, values, and tone of voice. Once completed, it generates a detailed tone-of-voice document that becomes the blueprint for all future content creation, both online and offline.

“This is the ultimate starting point,” Rachel explains. “By investing in The Write Treatment, salon owners set their AI up for success. It’s the difference between content that feels generic and content that feels authentically you. From there, you can explore the rest of the suite and pick exactly what your business needs: content ideas, hooks, subject lines, and more.”

Unlike traditional memberships or overwhelming resource hubs, Salon Scribe AI offers a more flexible, no-pressure approach. Rachel describes it as “an AI playground,” where business owners can choose tools that fit their immediate needs without the guilt of expensive unused resources.

“This isn’t an all-or-nothing situation,” Rachel says. “It’s about empowering salon owners to use AI in a way that works for them, whether they’re just starting or scaling to new heights.”

But isn’t it ironic for a copywriter to create AI tools? Rachel acknowledges the question with a laugh: “Let’s be clear. Salon Scribe AI doesn’t replace a copywriter. It’s a co-pilot, not the captain. AI can save you time, cut out the grunt work, and deliver solid results, but it’s not a substitute for the human ds that hit deep, you call in the pros.”

With plans to expand the Salon Scribe AI suite in 2025, Rachel is excited to continue bridging the gap between technology and connection in the professional beauty industry. “I’ve built these tools for where the industry is right now, but I’m already working on what’s next. The beauty industry

CRAFTING MEMORABLE CONNECTIONS: CORPORATE GIFTING WITH IMPERFECT SPIRITS AND CG GIN CO.

In today’s competitive business landscape, standing out and making a lasting impression is more important than ever. One unique way to strengthen relationships with clients and employees is through the art of thoughtful gifting. Enter the exclusive gift set from Imperfect Spirits and CG Gin Co.

A perfect blend of creativity and sophistication that embodies the essence of connection. Imagine receiving a beautifully packaged gift set that includes a bottle of Imperfect Spirits Gin, a testament to the craftsmanship and quality that goes into every drop. Accompanying this fine spirit are two bottles of artisanal tonic or soda, expertly chosen to enhance the gin experience. But the thoughtful touches don’t stop there; the set also features three tailored garnishes, handpicked to elevate cocktails and inspire creativity. These curated elements not only provide a delightful tasting experience but also serve as a conversation starter, allowing recipients to explore the nuances of flavour and presentation. It’s more than just a gift; it’s an invitation to connect over shared experiences and celebrate the art of cocktail-making.

For those looking to add a personal touch, the option to customise your label makes this gift even more special. With a minimum order of 20 bottles, companies can create a unique identity for their gifts, ensuring that each recipient feels valued and appreciated. Imagine the joy of clients and employees as they unwrap a gift with your brand the first thing they see, complete with a personalised message that reflects your brand’s commitment to building relationships.

Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, thanking a client for their partnership, or recognizing the hard work of your team, this exclusive gift set from Imperfect Spirits and CG Gin Co. offers a memorable way to express appreciation.

To explore this unique gifting opportunity, visit www.cgginco.com.au or reach out via email at info@imperfectspirits.com.au.

Leading the Movement towards Clean Beauty

The skincare industry is undergoing a significant transformation, and Biodroga is leading the way through its steadfast commitment to the clean beauty movement. Over the last three years, the company has systematically eliminated non-renewable, environmentally harmful ingredients from its product formulations, including PEGs, cyclic silicones, microplastics, phthalates, mineral oil, and parabens. This rigorous approach highlights Biodroga’s dedication to personal wellness and environmental sustainability.

Aside from the potential negative effects these ingredients may have on our bodies, we must be aware that skincare formulations and their production byproducts are being washed into the ocean, accumulating in marine life and harming fragile ecosystems. Just as we opposed animal testing, this issue will only be resolved once we insist that skincare companies stop using unnecessary ingredients that damage our vital natural ecosystems.

Will Fennell, the Australian distribution owner and international trainer for Biodroga, has played a vital role in introducing these innovative formulations free from petrochemicals to the global market. His mission is clear: to highlight the significant importance of Biodroga’s reformulation journey. The brand’s diverse product range has evolved considerably, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to healing the skin while being mindful of the planet.

Biodroga is committed to developing a cuttingedge, performance-driven range of clean products. Considerable effort has been made to ensure Biodroga’s values resonate with a diverse global audience. At last year’s annual Biodroga conference in Baden-Baden, Germany, Will presented his colleagues a pathway to Clean Beauty. They departed with a clearer understanding of why this movement is crucial.

This initiative involves strategically launching and relaunching classic products that have been thoughtfully redesigned to preserve their essential qualities while removing unnecessary petrochemicals. Excluding ingredients like PEGs, cyclic silicones, and microplastics is more than just a change; it’s a bold statement, as these components are commonly used to enhance the “experience” of skincare. Despite the challenges posed by this transformation, it has become a great source of pride for Will and the entire Biodroga team.

Let’s be honest: change is often uncomfortable, and Biodroga had to take on this challenge. This obstacle was considerable, particularly as the industry can shift at lightning speed and then slow down when adaptation is crucial.

Will, deeply passionate about the Clean Beauty movement, has led the presentation of the new product formulations to a global audience. This marks a significant milestone in Biodroga’s inspiring journey, affirming that the future of skincare is not just promising—it is here and now.

www.biodroga.com.au

Peta Friend & Will Fennell

TAKE THE WORRY OUT OF

• UTILIZING A CYSTEAMINE HCL ACTIVE AND CONTAINING NO THIOGLYCOLATE ALLOWS FOR GENTLE AND EFFECTIVE LASH LIFT/ LAMINATION RESULTS WHICH MINIMIZES THE CHANCE OF OVER PROCESSING

• VEGAN FRIENDLY FORMULATION

• LASTS UP TO 6 TO 8 WEEKS, WITH REDUCED CHANCE OF UNRULY GROW OUT IN THE LASH GROWTH CYCLE

• A SYNERGISTIC SYSTEM THAT INCORPORATES RE-GEN WITH REVOLUTIONARY POWERBOND TECHNOLOGY

TRIALS OF RE-GEN UNDER SEM IMAGING

Lashes treated with Elleeplex Profusion + ReGen Visible improvement in condition after chemical process

Lashes treated with an alternative lash lift system

SCAN TO UNLOCK OUR LASH & BROW LAMINATION SECRETS

house

Recently in January, Mocha Group and Mocha Beauty Magazine were proud to host the 4th annual Beauty Squad House for the 2024 team. Sponsors, mentors, and icons within the industry were invited into the beautiful Kingscliff home, situated on the north coast of NSW, to mix, mingle and chat with the team who shared this wonderful experience over 4 days.

CEO and founder Linda Woodhead, General Manager Jarred Stedman and Mocha Group Editor Louise May were all there to guide, nurture and inspire the Squad, consisting of Jacinta Curnow – Jacinta Curnow Skin , located in Singleton W.A, Amy Williams –Aeon Aesthetics, located in Capalaba QLD, and Shikya Clark from Bobbie Charles , Brisbane QLD. Unfortunately, the lovely Grace Luce from Aesthetics by Grace Luce, located in QLD, was not able to join us for the weekend.

The squad were treated to one-on-one sessions with a number of visitors, not to mention time with the mocha team and some fun along the way, in a journey of professional and self-development, culminating in a bond with each other that will last a lifetime.

The experience started with everyone arriving at the House, settling in, and having a team dinner, to get to know each other over a beautiful meal, courtesy of Louise with some

story telling over a couple of drinks, and a Gelato run!

The team spoke about their excitement towards the next 3 days highlighting all the things they were looking forward to with the house visitors.

Overall, the 4-day experience was one to remember which included a delicious dinner at Taverna in Kingscliff, a beautiful candlemaking evening in the house, and a visit to Higher Self Skin Laser + Cosmetic Clinic in Kingscliff, with Maria Enna-Cocciolone. All wrapped up in an idyllic setting, the team left with direction and purpose on what was truly a life-changing experience for all. Many thanks must go to our generous sponsors, all of whom not only spent time with the team but also provided incredible prizes in excess of $10,000, so a huge thank you Dermapenworld, inskincosmedics, elleebana, and Gay Wardle.

HOUSE VISITORS

Will Fennell

It was absolutely amazing to have Will join us in the house! After a brief rundown on his career and the directions it had taken him, Will also spoke to the team about how to work with men in beauty using a different language and how to juggle life with a balance between the salons, educating and being a product

distributor. He spoke candidly about his love for the industry and how when things changed for him, he looked at other opportunities to keep the passion alive. Will is the Australian distributor for Biodroga Skincare.

Kayla Zigic

Social Media expert Kayla Zigic from Social for Salons visited the house, with gifts for each of the team. Kayla spoke about social media and the latest changes and how to navigate them, marketing and the importance of connecting with your audience, not just posting with no purpose. So, building engagement, and really start connecting with your audience, so that you can fill up your books and getting people coming through your doors. It is always a pleasure to have Kayla in the Beauty Squad House.

Corri Matthews

Having practiced in over 29 countries with over 23 years of clinical aesthetics and cosmetic chemistry expertise, Corri is an authority on technical education and Dermapen™ procedures. She is the creator of Dp Dermaceuticals™, the world’s first skincare exclusively designed for micro-needling procedures and is passionate about making a difference in people’s lives. She is inspired by the many amazing skin transformation case studies around the globe and is keen to share her knowledge with others. As a very welcome guest, Corri

delivered the team their incredible Dermapen kits valued in excess of $5000!

The Squad were delighted and seemed mostly excited at the hard-cover books she also presented them with, which included procedures and how-to’s as a go-to manual! As our major sponsor and often overseas, it was an absolute treat to have Corri in the house and the team agreed they could have spent a full day with her! What knowledge she has! It was a highlight of the house stay and met with absolute gratitude and excitement!

Otto Mitter

Always a pleasure, Otto Mitter arrived as usually bringing gifts to all members of the house and then spoke about his history and love of the industry.

Otto’s mother wrote and contributed to the first competency-based beauty therapy training in Australia (wrote the Diploma of Beauty Therapy, Diploma of Health Science and Aesthetics, and founded the Gold Coast Training Academy who graduated thousands of beauty therapists in Australia) having been brought up by such an influential person in the industry it was only a natural progression that Otto found himself studying make up artistry, beauty therapy and all things lash & brow at the Gold Coast Training Academy straight out of high school. Fast forward to now and after two decades of studying the art of lashes, brows, beauty and cosmetic formulation, Otto, and his team at

Ex Import currently produce and supply lash & brow enhancement ranges for professionals and develop educational programs to over 60 countries across the globe and have a combined team of over 300 trainers worldwide.

Otto spoke about his ongoing dedication to education, which has seen him as a guest speaker and educator at the world’s most prestigious beauty and lash events. Otto is a true inspiration.

Maria Enna-Cocciolone

Maria Enna-Cocciolone came into the house with gift vouchers valued at $1500 for the Beauty Squad team, following a trip down memory lane to show where things started for her, the learning lessons along the way, and wow what a story! Having graduated with her Diploma of Health Science in 1985, Maria worked for a range of leading skincare brands in diverse roles and positions until 2007, when she founded INSKIN COSMEDICS.

Today, with 35+ years industry experience, Maria is one of Australia’s most reputable skin gurus and the only Australian industry icon to have created two professional skincare brands from scratch.

In 2009 Maria created and launched O COSMEDICS, which was created to fight the five major causes of aging, using medicalgrade active ingredients and proven delivery systems to prevent and correct skin aging and degradation.

In 2017 she a co-created her second brand, GINGER&ME and introduced a Mindfulness category to the beauty world, and 2024 saw the launch of her third brand inskin.co

Maria has a philosophy that all brands under her portfolio must make good business and good skin sense, supporting healthy businesses and skin too.

She spoke to the squad about her journey, the ups and downs, which demonstrated her resilience and determination making everyone feel inspired and equally on a mission to be their authentic self and go for gold! A true powerhouse of a woman!

An afternoon Shadowing with Gay Wardle

The Beauty Squad were treated to a once in a lifetime experience with Gay Wardle visiting for a full afternoon, sitting around the table with the squad and having Gays undivided attention. Just imagine learning one-on-one with the industry’s best, and being walked through her extensive signature skin consultation from start, this incredible experience showcased first-hand how to become an industry leader. The Beauty Squad engaged with Gay every step of the way to develop a solid understanding of the roles required to, boost client retention and achieve incredible clinical outcomes not to mention how to get more information from your client with her in-depth consultation techniques.

• cont’d over page

Otto MItter

Abby Stuart and Jessica Noyes

Louise May

Linda Woodhead

Kayla Zigic

Will Fennell & Gay Wardle

This nurturing, one-on-one learning environment showing effective client communication and treatments was a priceless addition to the Beauty Squad mentorship program and one that was an absolute favourite. With a career dedicated to sharing her passion for lifelong learning, Gay Wardle has established herself as one of the beauty industry’s most respected icons with roles as an educator, business owner, mentor, coach, and skin expert. As part of her shadowing session, she gave the squad team a huge dossier of tools and booklets including client consultation and more.

Our time with Gay proves beyond a doubt how committed she is to the personal and professional development of the industry at large.

Tamara Reid

It was wonderful to have Tamara in the house. Tamara’s career journey is nothing short of impressive, encompassing a broad spectrum of expertise that includes education, sales, brand marketing, and strategic partnerships across various sectors, including franchise groups and beauty distribution.

Tamara is all about networking and through her career thus far as proved herself to be forward thinking and an absolute asset to the industry. Voted the Emerging Leader by Telstra Businesswomen’s Awards, as well as a community and leadership expert, Tamara is the start-up Founder of Beaute Industrie and the Aesthetic and Beauty Industry Council. With a background in education and business development, her career expands over several segments of the professional beauty industry including salon, spa, clinic and aesthetic.

Tamara worked her way up from beauty therapist, to earn her seat at the senior leadership table and shared her career history and knowledge with the squad.

April Jones

Amazing to have April visit the house, and armed with gifts of sweet treats!. With a career spanning three decades, she has navigated the transformation of beauty therapy into the high-tech, highly regulated field of medical aesthetics. Her expertise extends beyond treatments and technology—she helps aesthetic businesses thrive by balancing regulatory demands with cutting-edge advancements, ensuring they remain both compliant and competitive in an increasingly saturated market. April shared her journey in the industry with the team, gave invaluable insights on the business of beauty, the trends shaping the future, and the key factors that separate thriving clinics from those that merely survive.

Abby Stuart and Jessica Noyes

We were very excited to have Abby and her manager and right-hand woman Jess, visit the house and talk about the Oi Cosmetics brand and all the reasons behind why Oi Cosmetics were awarded the 2024 ABIA Best In-Salon training Business of the Year. They talked about team culture and how they have created a place of connection and passion, and they talked about their systems and processes and how it is imperative to get them right, and they talked education and how they have built an amazing Oi Cosmetics empire. Abby and Jess had a gift bag of goodies for the team!

Mocha House Mentors - Linda Woodhead, Jarred Stedman, Louise May.

Staying in the house with the Beauty Squad was the mocha team made up of Linda, Jarred and Louise. Shout out to Louise May who looked after everyone, keeping them all fed and watered, not to mention a great opening session working through an Assets & Ambitions Analysis that was referred to many times throughout the stay.

With her knowledge in Product development and formulations, Salon ownership and business mentorship, not to mention her role as Mocha Beauty editor, Louise always plays a key role in the house being professionally and personally available at any time.

Jarred Stedman used his experience during the stay with his photographic and videography expertise, also leading the team as a mentor and confidant. He also spoke to the team about the importance of branding and culture giving them all something to think about for the future and re-emphasised the importance of being truly YOU!

CEO and founder, Linda Woodhead was on hand also, to guide interviews with the house visitors as well as impart knowledge from a 40+ year career on how to deal with the media.

A powerful end to a life changing time in the Beauty Squad House. Jarred, GM of Mocha Group, expertly guided the team throughout their stay with conversations relating to branding, culture and visual tips and tricks. As a bonus, being on hand for all photography and videography allowed the stay to be documented expertly for all of the housemates.

If you would like to be in the Beauty Squad in 2025, you can enter now as part of the ABIA by visiting www.mochagroup.com.au/beauty-squad

Corri Matthews

Maria Enna-Cocciolone

Tamara Reid

Gay Wardle

April Jones

house

“Words can’t describe the experience of beauty squad. I walked in feeling lost in the industry, and have walked out motivated, inspired, and invigorated with what is possible. The opportunity to connect and speak with so many industry icons, hearing their story was unmatched. Many of them imparting their wisdom and advice. Amy and Jacinta, my other two beauty squad girlies, will be friends for life and we will share this incredible opportunity together that not everyone can experience. I can’t help but feel mind blown at how lucky we are in this industry and how generous and caring these industry leaders are. I walked away from the experience feeling so uplifted and full of love. I’m truly grateful and count my blessings every day. Thank you so much Mocha!” ~ Shikya Clark @glow.withshik

This weekend has truly shifted my perspective on what comes next for my business. It’s been a game-changer—something that money can’t buy. Sitting down with incredible industry leaders, hearing their journeys, challenges, and wisdom has ignited a fire in me. It’s given me the clarity I was missing—the kind of clarity that allows you to realise not only how far you’ve come, but also how much further you can go. This wasn’t just an event; it was a full-on breakthrough. What I’ve learned is that I’ve been playing small and safe, focused only on what I thought were the limits of my business, and forgetting how much space there is to expand, evolve, and truly push the boundaries. From the way I consult, to the way I think about my business and brand culture, to tackling fears I’ve had about things like hiring staff or expanding—I feel equipped now to crush them. I’ve learned to view these challenges differently, and now I’m walking away with new tools in my back pocket. This experience has opened my eyes to the sheer size of what’s out there. What I thought was the “best” business model is only the beginning. I’m returning home with a book full of insights that are going to take me from good to great, no question. And that’s the power of this weekend—not just the knowledge, but the ability to connect with the right people, share my ideas, and finally see the path forward. It’s not just about dreaming anymore; it’s about doing. Now I know exactly what I want to build—and it will be bigger, better, and far more impactful than I ever imagined. From the bottom of my heart and soul, thank you to the Mocha Crew—Linda, Lou, Jarrad. This wouldn’t have been possible without you believing in me, seeing my potential, and trusting in my abilities. Thank you to our amazing sponsors and guest speakers for giving us your time and believing in this award. I will be forever grateful for this experience, I will make you all proud! Watch this space! xox ~ Jacinta Curnow @jacintacurnowskin

“Beauty Squad House is nearly impossible to put into words. The passion and love that Linda, Lou and Jarred poured into our weekend was a feeling I’ll carry with me for years to come. The personal development I experienced in only four days is sentient to the genuine passion, inspiration and dedication Mocha, the sponsors, and the incredible house guests have for giving back to our industry. It was both terrifying and liberating to challenge my limiting beliefs, to be vulnerable, but also fortify my mindset of ‘I can, and I will.’ If anything, this experience has proven to me that this is exactly what I am meant to be doing, and I am so grateful to have had this experience. I hope that one day I can give back similarly to the next rising stars, and I am so excited to see how this experience shapes me moving forward as a therapist, cosmetic nurse and business owner. I will make a difference, and I have the Beauty Squad house to thank for that.” ~ Amy Williams @aeonaesthetics.au

The ABIA (ANZ Beauty Industry Awards) were launched in 2011 to provide the Australian Beauty Industry a much needed and often requested benchmark of excellence in business, clinical and aesthetic ability on a state-by-state basis and local region basis.

With categories including the ABIA Australian and NZ Salon Business of the Year large and small, Beauty therapist and Dermal therapist as well as Bridal and Editorial Session Make Up Artist of the Year, these awards culminate in an annual gala event in August following the Sydney Beauty Expo. The awards were launched due to industry demand and are judged by an independent panel of judges, media, PR and business specialists from both withing and outside of the industry.

This year we see updated criteria and questions for your submissions to reflect the ever-changing industry and also invite New Zealand Professionals and Salons to join in!

What’s In Your Tattooing Toolbox? Essential Insights

Every Artist Needs To Know

By Kat McCann

Let’s talk about NEEDLES: Types, Tapers, and Techniques

As a cosmetic or medical tattoo artist, mastering the tools of your trade is non-negotiable—and your needles are one of your most important assets. While pigments, techniques and client care get much of the attention, needles are one essential element that often flies under the radar. This article aims to help you navigate the oftencomplex world of tattoo needles, breaking down their types, uses, and safety factors, as well as identifying some of the most used techniques in a bid to help elevate your skill sets and help demystify a few grey areas.

While the main needle configurations that are ‘usually’ taught to new cosmetic tattoo artists when they are first learning are 1RL, 3RL & 5RS, these are only the tip of the iceberg and sadly, there are some artists who only ever use these needles for fear of not knowing how other needles work. These seemingly simple tools are the backbone of your work, determining everything from the precision of a hair stroke to the softness of a gradient lip blush or consistency of ink implantation. It’s only once you truly understand how your needles work that you will gain the flexibility to adapt to any client, adjust or change up your technique and begin to watch your healed work become so much more consistent and predictable - because you’re using the right tools.

This article aims to help demystify the often-complex world of tattoo needles—what they are, how to choose the right one and why having a deeper understanding is critical to your success. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned professional, continually learning new skills and refining your work will not only build your confidence but your competitive advantage as an artist as well.

Needles 101: What Every Artist Should Know

Tattoo needles come in a variety of types, configurations, tapers, and sizes. At first glance, the options can feel overwhelming, so many options, needle groupings, sizes, tapers, solders – not to mention straight needles (on the bar style) or cartridges, oh and not to mention the codes on the needle boxes! Rest assured, though, once you understand how to read the code combinations and what they all mean, everything becomes so much clearer and less overwhelming. Let’s break it down: The codes on needle boxes that define needle types are typically referred to as needle configurations or needle codes. These codes are shorthand notations used to describe the type, size, and configuration of the needles in the cartridge or box. Here’s what they usually include:

Common Elements in Needle Codes:

1. Needle Count: The number of needles grouped together (e.g., 1, 3, 5, 7, etc.). This refers to how many individual needle points are in the configuration.

- Example: 3 means three needles are grouped together.

2. Configuration Type: The arrangement of the needles, usually denoted by a letter:

• RL: Round Liner – these needles are tightly grouped and used for crisp, clean lines. Often your go-to for hairstrokes in brows, precise lip contours, or sharp eyeliner.

• RS: Round Shader – needles in a loose circular grouping for shading Similar to liners but spaced further apart, shaders are ideal for softer fills, small shading areas, or subtle lash enhancements.

• F: Flat – needles arranged in a straight line, ideal for packing colour – these can be straight or sloped and are a flexible needle for strokes and shading.

- M1: Magnum – needles are arranged in two rows or are “stacked” one on top of the other; perfect for shading or covering larger areas like lips or large areas on the body.

- M2: Double Magnum – similar to M1 but with more space between the needles for softer shading.

- CM: Curved Magnum – needles are arranged in a slight curve for smoother blending. Often called “soft-edge” magnums, these have rounded edges that reduce trauma and create natural gradients. They’re ideal for scar camouflage, Areola or soft, blended lip blush – you can even turn them on the side to ballerina the needle for hair strokes, but that’s for another time.

3. Needle Diameter: Often represented in millimetres (e.g., 0.25 mm, 0.30 mm, 0.35 mm, 40mm) or as “bugpin” tighter configurations and “nano” needles (extra-thin needles, e.g., 0.18 mm or 0.20 mm). Smaller diameters create finer, more precise work but can also tend to have more bend or movement in the needle.

4. Taper: This describes how much the needle’s tip narrows. It’s typically classified as:

- Short Taper: Minimal narrowing, good for packing pigment.

- Medium Taper: A balance of precision and pigment deposit.

- Long Taper: Fine, precise work with minimal trauma.

- Extra-Long Taper: The sharpest and most precise taper.

Kat McCann

Why Taper and Size Matter

• Taper: The length of the needle’s point affects how pigment is delivered. A long taper deposits pigment gradually for soft, natural effects, while a short taper saturates boldly and quickly.

• Size: Needles range in diameter, from fine (0.25mm) to thicker (0.35-0.40mm). Thin needles are great for detail work, while thicker needles provide better coverage for bold fills or resilient skin types.

The combination of needle type, taper, and size directly impacts how pigment interacts with the skin and influences your healed results.

Additional Features – stick to reputable brands & check safety & expiry dates: When choosing tattoo needles, always stick to reputable brands and check for key safety features, as well as the expiry date. Here are two critical details to keep in mind:

• Safety Membranes: Certain needles include a safety membrane, which is crucial for maintaining hygiene. This feature prevents ink, bodily fluids, and contaminants from entering your machine, protecting both the equipment and your client.

Breaking it down when you are reading a Needle Box:

If a box says “7CM 0.30 LT”, it means:

• 7: Seven needles.

• CM: Curved Magnum configuration.

• 0.30: Needle diameter of 0.30 mm.

• LT: Long Taper (which is for precise yet smooth shading – my go-to taper ;).

**Remember: These codes ensure artists can quickly and easily select the right needle for each procedure and knowing how the needles work can achieve their desired technique and result. If you think of having a pencil case with lots of different types of colouring in pens, crayons, pencils and marker pens – you will use each of these tools very differently to achieve your desired outcome. Fine drawings would need a soft sharp pencil or fine tip pen whereas a thick-tip marker would lose desired detail – so always keep in mind your tattoo needles are very similar. It’s also important to practice with them on different surfaces (latex, fruit, a balloon or even the back of your hand with a glove on so you can see, feel and adjust to the pressures required as well as identify how ink flows and deposits. It is also important to understand it’s not uncommon to use 2-3 different needles per procedure (don’t laugh, there are many artists that have never tried any other needles other than what they first learned with and for years have just used the same configurations out of fear or lack of knowledge. Confidence is key with needles and building this brings comfort to pick up and try new needles, especially if you want to achieve a certain result. For example, I often use a 1RL and a 5RS for eyebrows - the soft round shader for the bulk of the brow and the 1RL for any light shading or fine soft hairstrokes or powdery points where necessary. I may also switch up to a curved magnum and use a diluted colour if working on older, thicker or even oily skin, but having the choice means of needle selection means I can pick what is most appropriate and safely create the desirable results per face I am working on).

Matching Needles to Machines

Understanding how needles pair with different machines is just as important as understanding the needles themselves.

Cartridge

Needles

Cartridge needles are the most common choice for modern penstyle rotary machines. These pre-assembled cartridges make switching between needle types seamless, improving efficiency during treatments. Most importantly, look for cartridges with safety membranes—these prevent ink, blood, and fluids from contaminating your machine.

Standard Needles

Standard needles, used in coil machines, are manually assembled and less common in cosmetic tattooing. However, they’re still relevant for certain medical applications, particularly in settings requiring high saturation. You may also hear artists talk about using a ‘needle on the bar’ this refers to this type of needle which is more commonly used by body tattooists.

Why

Compatibility Matters

Not all cartridges work with all machines. Always check for compatibility and invest in needles from reputable brands that prioritise safety, consistency, and quality. Sometimes, you will find the cheaper machines offered may come with specific needles that fit that machine only –however the most popular machines all take universal cartridge needles, which provide the most flexibility when it comes to choosing different configurations and cost-effective price points.

Practical Applications: Matching Needles to Techniques

The magic happens when you know how to match the right needle to the right technique. Here’s a breakdown of the most common treatments and the needles best suited for them:

Brows

• Use 1RL or 3RL for crisp hair strokes that mimic natural brow hairs.

• Opt for a 5 or 7RS or curved magnum for soft, powdered effects or ombré brows.

• Why: Fine liners excel at precision work, while shaders create natural density and soft gradients.

Lips

• Curved Magnums deliver a soft, natural blush perfect for subtle lip colour.

• For bold lip fills, standard magnums, Flat needles or bigger RS’s provide quick, even saturation.

• Why: Lips require a balance of efficiency and delicacy to avoid trauma while achieving vibrant, even results.

Eyeliner

• For lash enhancements, 1RL or 3RL ensures fine, precise lines (particularly wings or wedges using the finer needles helps to get lines crisp and precise; 3RL/RS is great for colour packing lash lines) Bigger needles like round shaders will make achieving that smoky or blurred line a breeze.

• Why: Precision is key to eyeliner work, especially when working close to sensitive areas like the lash line – make sure your stretch is firm, as this will also impact needle performance.

Medical Tattooing

• Use RS needles for detailed work on small scars.

• For larger areas (once scars are prepped correctly), curved magnums blend pigments seamlessly.

• Why: Scars demand gentle application to minimise trauma while ensuring even pigment distribution – colour building is also important so ensure you watch the skin and adjust needle selection according to what type of scar or compromised areas you are working on.

• cont’d over page

Magnum Needles: Your Shading Powerhouse

Magnums are amazing when working on larger areas or creating soft gradients. Their design allows for efficient pigment application, making them a favourite among artists for lips, scar camouflage and even eyebrows.

Standard Magnums

• Ideal for flat colour fills or bold lip tattoos.

• Their larger surface area speeds up treatments but requires a steady hand to avoid overworking the skin – a straight magnum needs to be evenly applied to the skin as it will hit deeper should the angle be incorrect.

Curved Magnums

• Perfect for blending, these reduce trauma and are ideal for sensitive areas like scars or lips.

Pro Tip: Use magnums with caution. Overworking the skin can lead to trauma, scarring, or poor pigment retention. So, ensure you practice using this needle and that your gradients, ink deposits and shadings are consistent before taking to the skin. Magnums do take some mastery to get comfortable using, especially being bigger needle configurations, but once you get the hang of them, they will become your go-to!

Angles, Depth, and Speed: Perfecting Your Technique

Even the best needles won’t perform without the proper technique. Mastering angles, depth, and speed is the key to consistent, safe, and beautiful results.

• Angles:

- A 90-degree angle provides sharp, defined strokes.

- A 45-degree angle softens the pigment for gradients or shading.

- Remember, always adjust your angle depending on the angle you are working (faces and bodies are not flat, so make sure you master this for perfect ink implantation).

• Depth:

- Pigment must reach the dermis (1–2mm deep as a guide) for lasting results. Going too shallow leads to poor retention, while going too deep risks scarring, but you will need to remain mindful that depending on the type of skin you are working on, this guide changes so you will need to learn the ‘feeling’ of being in the sweet spot and monitoring your results as they come back healed and adjusting as you learn and go.

• Speed:

- Faster speeds work well for large fills but demand control and pressure – the bigger the needle, the more pressure is required, the smaller the needle, the less pressure you need. Lower speeds are better for detailed, precision work, but remember pressure, hand speed and machine speed will all vary depending on the needle type you have selected as well as the skin type you are working on and the technique you are looking to create.

Safety First: Protecting Your Clients and Your Reputation

Safety is non-negotiable in tattooing. High-quality needles are essential for maintaining hygiene, protecting your clients, and delivering consistent results

– My advice is never cut corners and stick to reputable sellers (eBay/ali express, temu or any third party means you are not covered insurance-wise should anything go wrong!)

What Makes a Needle Safe?

• Medical-grade materials: Prevent contamination and ensure durability.

• Safety membranes: Block fluids and bacteria from entering your machine.

• Reputable brands: Offer consistent quality and performance & accountability.

The Cost of Cutting Corners

Using low-quality or unsafe needles can lead to:

• Ink Flow Issues: Uneven distribution or pooling.

• Poor Retention: Fading pigment or patchy results.

• Scarring: Trauma caused by incorrect technique or faulty tools (barbs or hooks) - using a needle loop is also a great habit to get into, allowing you to check up close every needle you use before putting it into the skin.

Investing in safe, reliable needles not only protects your clients but also upholds your reputation as a professional.

When Things Go Wrong: The Risks of Misusing Needles

Even with the right tools, improper technique can undermine your work. Common issues include:

• Blowouts: Caused by excessive depth, resulting in blurred pigment edges.

• Uneven Shading: Poor angles or inconsistent speed disrupt smooth gradients.

• Permanent Damage: Overworking the skin can lead to scarring or pigment rejection.

Why Technique Matters

These issues underscore the importance of refining your technique and understanding the nuances of your tools. Proper training, combined with practice and a thorough knowledge of skin anatomy, ensures you can:

• Adjust needle depth appropriately to avoid scarring or blowouts.

• Maintain consistent angles and speeds for smooth shading and clean lines.

• Work with skin types of varying thickness and resilience without causing trauma.

When you master the fundamentals, you not only deliver consistently beautiful results but also protect the integrity of your client’s skin. This dedication to precision and care sets exceptional artists apart, ensuring that your work is not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe and long-lasting.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge is Power

Tattoo needles are more than just tools—they’re the foundation of your craft. By mastering their intricacies, you unlock the ability to adapt to any client, technique, or skin type.

Take the time to explore needle types, practice till your hands ache, explore different machines, their weight, the way they feel, understand different machine compatibilities and test all kinds of needles and see what suits you and your style the best – don’t be scared, instead be curious and excited about new applications and techniques. This knowledge doesn’t just refine your skills; it sets you apart as an artist who can deliver exceptional results with confidence and care.

When you truly understand your tools, it opens you up to taking on more complex work with the confidence of knowing you can genuinely make a difference.

If you have any questions about needles or would like to know more, I’m always here to help.

Happy tattooing till next time, Kat @katmccann_inka

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Reviving Classics: Why High-Frequency Therapy and Galvanic Devices should not be Missing in your Clinic

By Karen Geiszler, Clinical Educator /Clinic Owner

The beauty industry constantly evolves, but some classic methods are significantly returning amidst the trends and technologies. High-frequency therapy and galvanic devices, with their unique benefits of stimulating circulation, killing bacteria, reducing inflammation, and boosting product absorption, are two devices I still use daily in the clinic.

Despite the initial perception of high-frequency therapy and galvanic devices as ‘old school ‘, it’s essential to recognise that their enduring efficacy is a testament to their effectiveness. These classic methods have proven their worth over time, delivering results that are as relevant today as they were when they first emerged.

With advancements in skincare formulations, especially those utilising Dalton-sized molecules (molecules of a specific size that can penetrate the skin barrier effectively), the effectiveness of these classic treatments has been further amplified.

In the skin treatment world, the classics often stand the test of time, and their benefits should not be overlooked. Finding the right balance between traditional and innovative methods ensures the best client outcome and instils confidence in your treatment approach.

High-frequency therapy and galvanic devices align perfectly with this holistic approach, which involves treating the whole person rather than just the symptoms. These treatments are not just about improving the skin’s appearance; they also address underlying issues such as inflammation, circulation, and product absorption. As clinics adopt more holistic practices, including these classic modalities can provide clients with a more comprehensive treatment plan.

The Rise of Holistic Approaches to Skincare

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in how we approach skincare. Consumers increasingly seek holistic solutions that consider the skin’s surface and the underlying factors contributing to skin health. These include lifestyle, diet, and even emotional well-being. Holistic skincare focuses on treating the skin as an interconnected system, leading to a growing interest in natural ingredients and non-invasive treatments.

High-frequency therapy and galvanic devices align perfectly with this industry shift towards holistic skincare. These treatments are not just about improving the skin’s appearance; they also address underlying issues such as inflammation, circulation, and product absorption. As clinics adopt more holistic practices, including these classic modalities can provide clients with a more comprehensive treatment plan, keeping them aligned with the industry’s direction.

Advancements in Skincare Ingredients

One of the most exciting developments in skincare is the studied and measured advancement of scientifically proven ingredient Delivery systems that can interact with cell receptors and extend that cell’s life without altering the genetic code.

Welcome to the world of Epigenetics. It Sounds a little too scientific. Let me break it down.

Epigenetics refers to changes in gene activity that do not involve alterations to the genetic code. These changes can be reversible and can affect how genes are expressed.

Mechanisms

Key mechanisms of energetic regulation include:

• DNA Methylation: Adding a methyl group to DNA often inhibits gene expression.

• Histone Modification: Changes to the proteins around which DNA is wrapped, influencing gene accessibility.

• Non-coding RNAs (Gene Regulation cellular processes) are Molecules that can regulate gene expression.

Influences

Various factors can impact epigenetic changes, such as:

• Environment: Pollution, UV radiation, and other environmental stressors.

• Diet: Nutritional intake can affect epigenetic markers and gene expression.

• Lifestyle: Stress, exercise, and sleep patterns can also play a role.

Epigenetics in Skincare

The role of epigenetics in skincare is an emerging area of interest. Here’s how it can be relevant:

• Skin Aging: Epigenetic changes contribute to the skin’s aging process. Factors like UV exposure and pollution can lead to alterations in gene expression that accelerate aging signs such as wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and pigmentation.

• Ingredient Development: Skincare formulations increasingly focus on ingredients that can positively influence epigenetic processes. For example:

• Antioxidants: Ingredients like vitamins C and E can help mitigate oxidative stress, potentially leading to beneficial epigenetic changes.

• Peptides: Certain peptides may promote the expression of genes associated with skin repair and regeneration.

Personalised Skincare

Understanding a client’s epigenetic profile could lead to more personalised skincare regimens. By assessing how their skin reacts to environmental stressors, therapists can tailor products to address specific needs.

The Potential of Epigenetic Skincare

• Innovative Products: The beauty industry is beginning to explore products that claim to target epigenetic markers, promoting healthier skin over time. These products may contain ingredients that can positively influence gene expression.

• Holistic Approach: With a deeper understanding of epigenetics, skincare professionals can adopt a more holistic approach, considering not just topical applications but also lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors that contribute to skin health.

• Research and Development Ongoing research into epigenetics will likely lead to discoveries in skincare, paving the way for innovative treatments that harness the power of gene regulation.

Epigenetics offers a profound understanding of how our environment and lifestyle choices impact our skin at the molecular level. As research in this area continues to evolve, integrating epigenetic principles into skincare practices could revolutionise how we approach skin health. By recognising the interplay between our genes and external factors, we can develop more effective, personalised skincare solutions that address current issues and promote long-term skin health.

Understanding High-Frequency Therapy

High-frequency therapy uses a low-level electrical current to stimulate the skin, offering numerous benefits.

• Stimulating Circulation: Enhanced blood flow to the skin promotes healing and rejuvenation.

• Killing Bacteria: The electrical current produces ozone, which can eliminate acne-causing bacteria.

• Reducing Inflammation: High frequency helps to calm and soothe irritated skin.

• Boosting Product Absorption: The current helps to drive skincare products deeper into the skin, maximizing their efficacy.

• With the recent advancements in skincare formulations, particularly those utilising Dalton-sized molecules, have made the efficacy of high-frequency treatments even more pronounced.

The Science Behind Galvanic and High Frequency Galvanic

Devices

Galvanic devices

Work by utilising a direct current to facilitate the penetration of active ingredients into the skin. This technique is based on the principle of iontophoresis, where charged particles are propelled into the skin using an electrical current. The process enhances product absorption, helps detoxify the skin, and improves overall tone and texture.

High-Frequency Devices

On the other hand, high-frequency devices use alternating current to stimulate the skin and create a thermal effect, promoting circulation and cellular metabolism. When combined, these two technologies can lead to remarkable results.

Combining High Frequency and Galvanic Treatments

Clinics can combine high-frequency and galvanic treatments to offer a powerful dual-action treatment that enhances skin health and product efficacy. The synergy between these two technologies allows for deeper penetration of active ingredients, more effective treatment of skin concerns, and a more satisfying experience for clients.

Cost-Efficiency and Accessibility for Clinics

In addition to their myriad benefits, high-frequency and galvanic devices are cost-efficient investments for clinics. They require relatively low maintenance and can be used across various treatment protocols, making them versatile tools in the skincare arsenal. Moreover, the rise of holistic approaches has led to increased consumer demand for non-invasive treatments, which means clinics that incorporate these classic modalities can attract a broader client base. By offering practical, science-backed treatments at an accessible price point, clinics can enjoy increased foot traffic and higher client satisfaction.

Addressing Common Skin Concerns

Clinicians can effectively address various skin concerns by incorporating high-frequency and galvanic treatments. These treatments offer targeted solutions for issues such as:

• Aging: Stimulating collagen production for firmer skin.

• Acne: Reducing bacteria and inflammation.

• Hyperpigmentation: Improving skin tone and reducing dark spots.

• Dehydration: Enhancing moisture retention and skin hydration.

As we witness the evolution of the beauty industry, it is essential to remember the classic methods that have stood the test of time. High-frequency therapy and galvanic devices are not just relics of the past; they are powerful tools that can complement modern skincare treatments.

With the integration of high-frequency and galvanic devices, these small molecules can be driven even deeper into the skin, maximising their effectiveness. This means that treatments can be tailored to individual skin concerns such as aging, acne, hyperpigmentation, and dehydration, offering a personalised approach that resonates with the holistic philosophy.

By integrating these classic modalities, clinics can provide clients with a comprehensive skincare experience that addresses immediate and long-term health concerns.

In a world where clients are increasingly looking for holistic solutions, high-frequency therapy and galvanic devices should not be missing from your clinic. Embrace the revival of these classics and watch as your clients’ skin—and your business—thrives.

www.kgbeautyandmodalitytraining.com.au @klgbeautymodalitytraining

Debunking Filler and AntiWrinkle Treatment Myths

Every single day, hundreds of Australians from around the country head into clinics to receive injectable treatments for a wide array of cosmetic purposes. Yet, despite so many enjoying the benefits of injectable treatments, the injectables industry has long been surrounded by stigmas and myths.

No one knows this more than Dr Nico Foley, Global Medical Director for the Laser Clinics Group After years consulting on and performing dermal filler and botulinum toxin procedures, Dr Foley has heard it all, and is now setting the record straight on some of the most common – and surprising – myths surrounding injectable treatments, to help educate and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their cosmetic journeys.

Myth One: I’m too young for injectables, they’re just for old people who want to look young again.

Dr Nico Foley says, “We all age differently and depending on our life stage, are looking for different outcomes, so it’s all about the individual needs of the person. Yes, anti-wrinkle treatments and fillers can be used by people over the age of 40 to help with the aging process, but they can also work for people in their 20s and 30s as preventive measures, to address early signs of aging before they progress, or to enhance facial features such as symmetry or volume. Wrinkles and other signs of aging can develop at any age due to a range factors, from sun exposure to stress or smoking, so it all depends on the person and what outcomes you’re looking for, not age.”

Myth Two: Anti-wrinkle treatments will make me look 18 years old again.

Dr Nico Foley says, “The goal of anti-wrinkle treatments is to effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles, but at the end of the day the aging process is inevitable, so it’s simply not feasible to completely remove the signs of aging. Other skin treatments we offer such as BBL Hero, which is the most powerful pulsed light skin treatment available globally, can also help with the effects of aging. Factors such as age, genetics, and skin condition, including deep wrinkles caused by loss of collagen and elastin in the skin can all influence the effectiveness of any treatments, but a combination of personalised inject treatments and a tailored skin treatment plan is the most effective way to combat ageing. The objective is not to make a 40-year-old look like a teenager, we just want to help you look naturally refreshed.”

Myth Three: It’s called plastic surgery for a reason - it always looks weird and unnatural.

Dr Nico Foley says, “One of the biggest myths around injectable treatments is that they will radically change the way you look or make you look ‘unnatural’, based on tabloid images we remember of celebrities who’ve had lots of work done. We don’t want to make you look less like you, or like you’re wearing a mask, our priority is to help you achieve natural-looking outcomes that are tailored to your needs - whether it be to refresh your appearance, like you’ve just had a great night’s sleep or are flaunting that post-holiday glow, or sharpen areas that have softened or lost volume as part of the aging process.”

Myth Four: Fillers and Botox will permanently change my face.

Dr Nico Foley says, “The muscles in our face are just like any other muscles in the body, they can be trained to function a particular way with the right work. Botox and anti-wrinkle treatments are not permanent, they simply train your muscles to work differently for a period, so if you don’t continue to come back those wrinkles will grow back once the treatment wears off. Repeat treatments simply provide the maintenance pathway that is required to achieve and maintain your desired results. Most of the common dermal fillers are also not permanent. They are made from naturally occurring substances commonly found in the tissue, so over time they are broken down, reabsorbed and partially redistributed via the body’s natural systems. While dermal fillers should not be entered into without careful consideration, they will not permanently change facial structure when placed appropriately. Overall, the duration of results always depends on the types of ingredients, formulation and dosage that is used.”

Myth Five: Injectable treatments are just for women, it’s not a guy thing.

Dr Nico Foley says, “Whilst fillers and ‘facelifts’ are more associated with women, we have many male patients who come into our clinics for a range of treatments. As women age, we lose the distinction around our cheekbones and lips, whereas for men you often see a softening around the jawline, which can be sharpened with just a couple of mililitres of filler. It’s not a difficult or drastic treatment, and won’t completely change how you look, but it can help bring back that strong youthful jawline you had when you were younger.”

Myth Six: Fillers and Botox are unsafe.

Dr Nico Foley says, “Like any approved medical procedure, cosmetic injectable treatments are safe when performed with proper guidance from trained professionals and adherence to guidelines. Following a procedure, patients may experience minimal side effects, but these are temporary and typically pass soon after treatment. Aesthetic medicine physicians always prioritise patient safety, and at Laser Clinics Australia we have a trained team of doctors, nurses and support staff who work with our patients from the consult through to post-procedure to ensure optimal outcomes.”

Myth Seven: Injectable treatments are all the same.

Dr Nico Foley says, “There is a wide range of anti-wrinkle options available for patients based on their own needs, each with their own unique characteristics and benefits based on the active ingredients, formulation, and your specific aesthetic requirements. The choice of treatment depends on a few things, including the type and severity of wrinkles, individual preferences, and the advice of a healthcare professional.”

@laserclinics @doctor.foley

Understanding Fungal Skin Rashes: Causes, Identification, and Treatment

By Gay Wardle

Fungal skin rashes are a common dermatological issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Caused by various types of fungi, these rashes can be uncomfortable, persistent, and sometimes challenging to treat.

I have written this article with a clear aim to provide a clear, easy-tounderstand overview of fungal skin rashes, including their causes, identification, treatment, and prevention.

The article will help skin care professionals understand this condition better.

What Are Fungal Skin Rashes?

Fungal skin rashes are infections caused by fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as the skin’s surface. These fungi belong primarily to two groups: dermatophytes and yeasts. Dermatophytes cause infections like athlete’s foot and ringworm, while yeasts, such as Candida, lead to conditions like intertrigo and candidiasis.

Causes of Fungal Skin Rashes

Some of the primary causes of fungal skin rashes include:

1. Warm and Humid Environments: Fungi thrive in warm, damp conditions, making areas like skin folds, groin, and armpits more susceptible.

2. Compromised Skin Barrier: Cuts, abrasions, or any damage to the skin can provide an entry point for fungi.

3. Weakened Immune System: People with weakened immunity, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with diabetes, are more prone to fungal infections.

4. Hygiene Practices: Wearing damp clothes or not drying off properly after bathing can increase the risk.

5. Use of Antibiotics or Steroids: Long-term use can disrupt the balance of microorganisms on the skin, allowing fungi to proliferate.

There are many types of fungal skin rashes, I have included the common types of fungal skin rashes that we see in clinics.

1. Tinea Infections (Dermatophytosis): Caused by dermatophytes, tinea can affect different parts of the body:

a. Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot): Affects the feet, causing peeling, cracking, and itching.

b. Tinea Corporis (Ringworm): Presents as circular, red, and scaly patches on the body.

c. Tinea Capitis: Affects the scalp, leading to patchy hair loss and scaling.

d. Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch): Occurs in the groin area, causing redness and itching.

2. Candidiasis: Caused by Candida albicans, this infection often affects skin folds, leading to red, itchy, and moist patches.

3. Pityriasis Versicolor: Caused by Malassezia yeast, it leads to discoloured patches on the trunk, neck, and arms.

Identifying Fungal Skin Rashes

Fungal skin rashes often present with specific signs and symptoms:

• Redness and inflammation

• Scaling and peeling

• Itching or burning sensation

• Circular or irregular patterns (in cases of ringworm)

• Moist or weepy patches, especially in skin folds

Even though we can identify and diagnose we still need to refer on to other specialists for advice and help. I have listed ways that these rashes can be diagnosed:

• Clinical Examination: Visual inspection by a healthcare provider.

• Microscopic Examination: Scraping of the skin examined under a microscope to identify fungal elements.

• Culture Tests: Identifying the specific fungal strain in a laboratory setting.

Treatment Options

Treating fungal skin rashes involves addressing the underlying fungal infection and alleviating symptoms. The following are common approaches:

1. Topical Antifungals:

a. Creams, gels, or sprays containing agents like clotrimazole, miconazole, or terbinafine are effective for mild cases.

2. Oral Antifungals:

a. For more severe or widespread infections, oral medications like fluconazole, itraconazole, or terbinafine may be prescribed.

3. Supportive Care:

a. Keeping the affected area clean and dry.

b. Using antifungal powders to prevent moisture buildup.

4. Supporting the barrier as much as possible.

a. Lymphatic drainage to support the immune system.

b. LED to reduce the inflammation and increase the healing.

c. Topical applications that reduce inflammation and increase hydration in the skin.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing fungal skin rashes requires maintaining a healthy skin barrier and reducing the conditions that allow fungi to thrive:

1. Personal Hygiene:

a. Bathe regularly and dry off thoroughly, especially in skin folds.

b. Change damp clothing promptly, such as after exercising.

2. Avoid Sharing Personal Items:

a. Towels, socks, and shoes can harbour fungi.

3. Wear Breathable Fabrics:

a. Opt for cotton or moisture-wicking materials to reduce sweat buildup.

4. Boost Immune Health:

a. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep support overall immunity.

5. Use Antifungal Products:

a. For people prone to fungal infections, prophylactic use of antifungal powders or sprays can be helpful.

How Skin Therapists Can Support Clients with Fungal Skin Rashes

Skin therapists play a critical role in supporting clients dealing with fungal skin rashes by providing professional care and education. Here are some ways they can assist:

1. Initial Assessment:

a. Perform a detailed consultation to identify symptoms and potential triggers.

b. Use skin imaging tools to analyse the affected area and assess the extent of the condition.

2. Education:

a. Educate clients about the importance of personal hygiene and preventive measures.

b. Explain the role of lifestyle factors, such as diet and stress, in managing skin health.

3. Supportive Treatments:

a. Offer soothing treatments to alleviate symptoms like itching or redness, such as LED therapy to reduce inflammation.

b. Provide manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) to improve circulation and boost the immune response in clients with compromised immunity.

4. Product Recommendations:

a. Recommend appropriate antifungal skincare products, including cleansers and powders, tailored to the client’s needs.

b. Suggest barrier-repair products to maintain healthy skin and prevent reinfection.

5. Collaboration with Healthcare Providers:

a. Refer clients to dermatologists or general practitioners for further evaluation and prescription treatments if necessary.

b. Work in tandem with healthcare professionals to create a holistic treatment plan.

6. Follow-Up Care:

a. Regularly monitor the client’s progress and adjust treatments as needed.

b. Provide ongoing support to ensure adherence to preventive measures.

By combining their expertise with compassionate care, skin therapists can empower clients to manage and prevent fungal skin rashes effectively.

Complications of Untreated Fungal Skin Rashes

While most fungal skin rashes are treatable, neglecting them can lead to:

• Secondary bacterial infections from scratching.

• Chronic infections that are harder to manage.

• Spread to other parts of the body or other people.

Fungal skin rashes are a widespread issue that can impact quality of life if not addressed promptly. Understanding the causes, identifying the type of infection, and adhering to effective treatment regimens are crucial steps in managing these conditions. By following good hygiene practices and seeking timely treatment, most fungal infections can be resolved quickly, preventing recurrence and complications. Healthcare professionals and beauty therapists play a vital role in educating clients about these infections, promoting prevention, and providing appropriate treatment advice. Skin therapists, in particular, offer invaluable support by tailoring treatments, educating clients, and fostering a collaborative approach to skin health.

Education , But Let’s Make It Different!

By Robyn McAlpine

Transform your career with education that hits different! It’s no secret that many of us found our way into the beauty industry because we didn’t exactly thrive in the typical school and education environment. Perhaps we realised our fate and left school early, looking for something that would be more interesting that classrooms and exams.

I’m very quick to raise my hand and admit that I failed school, graduating year twelve with a 46.8 result, not even a pass or a mark that would get me very far in the tertiary education world.

Yet, looking upon the shining career I’ve built, the skin science that is comfortably tucked in my brain, the book and articles I’ve published, much like this one, it’s clear that perhaps it wasn’t me… but possibly the learning environment I was being measured by?

At 42 years of age, I’ve come to realise that my brain works a little differently and hours spent in a classroom, listening to teachers, and having to sit in a chair and focus are a slow and painful death to my skin nerd loving soul.

Having personally mentored over 500 beauty therapists in our industry, and having two decades of being in and of, observing our industry, I’ve learned that my education failings aren’t an isolated case.

Turns out many of us working in the beauty industry have had a similar school experience, being measured by a system that fails to accommodate the kinds of learning style that would tap into our natural talents and skills. Skills like empathy, kindness, the practicality our using our hands to serve and care for others. We have all found ourselves here, hunting hairs and fondling faces for a living and there’s hardly a textbook or classroom in sight! Pure bliss!

But the lingering hangover of feeling like we aren’t very smart or that if we wanted to advance our careers, we’d need further study, causes so many of us to stay in the comfort zone of the treatment room, applying ourselves practically, giving spine tinglingly good treatments and doing a brilliant job!

However, I also have soooo many therapists in my DMs hungry for more but scared of that familiar feeling like a failure, sitting in a classroom and not having the capacity to pay attention like the neurotypical kids! It’s the hangover effect of years at school feeling like we were never quite good at the whole learning thing.

The sheer thought of having to focus on a lecture, delivered inside four windowless walls, under artificial lighting, then draining your social battery making small talk by the tea and coffee station during the breaks…. It’s a proper skin nerd boner killer! We want the knowledge and education but when delivered like this, it’s like walking barefoot over cut glass just to reach it!

It’s a challenge I’ve seen throughout my career and one I’ve had to navigate as the owner of a brain that likes to take the long way around when it comes to learning. And this is something am determined to change. Not my brain, I’m fortunately/unfortunately stuck with that, but to influence the way our industry educates, that is absolutely something I can do!

I’ve already started with the Skinside Out Squad, taking the education, you have and turning it into relatable, tangible, useable information in the treatment room, because we cannot simply regurgitate a memorised textbook to our clients. We need to deeply understand what we do, making it part of our being so that it naturally pours out of us when sitting across from the clients we serve. Reading our education from a textbook or slides on a screen doesn’t really help us get it into our brains and hearts so that we can feel it and KNOW it!

But I’m going bigger and better and taking it way further than that. It’s only natural in our industry that we give and nurture our clients, forgetting that in order to do so and never burn out, we need to be giving back to ourselves and filling our own cups. It’s exactly why I created the Skin Therapist Retreats.

I’ve taken industry high value education (the relevant, useful, and juicy bits) and sent them on a blind date with self-care and community connection and it turns out they really, really like each other. Just call me the greatest match maker in the skin saving universe!

Picture this: a weekend hanging out with a bunch of your new skin nerd friends. You wake up surrounded by nature, go for a stroll on the beach and return to a fully catered breakfast. Across the table you swap salon stories before gathering on a picnic blanket to learn and truly understand the consultation process. But not just top line introduction that gives you the content but still leaves you guessing! Over the next few days, you dive deep into learning how to consult, taking breaks between sessions to go and get a massage, a facial or just have a nap between fully catered meals. You pour yourself into a cosy bed each night feeling inspired instead of overwhelmed.

You finally pull yourself away from your new estie besties to return home but this time, you are READY.

You don’t have to madly study your notes on the plane home, trying to figure out how the heck you’ll use this education in everyday salon life. You don’t have to test your memory to make sure you don’t forget the important bits, because every bit of the retreat education has made

sense. You were able to take your time learning, your teacher stopped and gave you personal attention and helped you tailor it to how YOU operate, not trying to make you fit into the system. She helped make a system especially for you!

That’s exactly why my retreats are designed this way! Deep, real learning, in the open air, with therapists just like me who die a thousand deaths at the thought of sitting in a conference room. Who struggle to learn from books and screens, and instead want to ask questions, talk about it amongst the group without missing the lecture going on up front.

And that’s why I am here, writing this knowing that if you’re reading this far, it’s because like me, you’re tired of education that leaves you feeling sillier than when you started, you’re hungry to learn and excited that you’ve found someone who gets it and suddenly that sense of calm and spark has just come over you where your heart skips a little beat but it also feels a bit scary to think you might actually want to do this!

So, consider this my personal invitation to come join me. Our next retreat is in March and there is a place with your name on it! The fear of studying stops here (there’s no homework, just pure understanding, I promise!)

Come learn with me. Let me teach you and love on you as you fill your soul cup and your skin nerdy brain.

With only a few spaces left, one of them has your name on it! Head to www.robynmcalpine.com and take the bold leap into the next stage of your career. One that is filled with confidence, knowledge and passion that burns so bright, your clients will come circling the flame!

@expert_skin_therapist

www.skintifix.com

Unlocking the Future of Skin Health Through Functional Skincare.

For Madilyn Sonter, skin health has always been personal. As a child and teenager, she struggled with eczema, acne, and keratosis pilaris, enduring a cycle of pharmaceutical treatments that provided only temporary relief. Frustrated by these shortterm solutions, she became determined to uncover a deeper understanding of the skin and its connection to overall health.

This passion led Madilyn to pursue a career in nursing, where she developed a clinical understanding of the human body. Wanting to bridge the gap between conventional medicine and holistic skin health, she continued her studies in Dermal Science and Integrative Health. With over 14 years of handson experience, she honed her skills as a Paramedical Dermal Therapist, working closely with a cosmetic doctor for five years before becoming a Registered Nurse.

Her professional journey evolved into a mission: to educate and empower others about skin health beyond surface-level treatments. This vision came to life in The Functional Skin Studio, based in Brisbane, where she treats clients using a multimodality approach. Here, she combines a team of experts in injectables, dermal science, and integrative medicine to ensure patients’ skin is treated holistically—inside and out.

While The Functional Skin Studio became a trusted space for clients seeking a science-backed yet holistic approach to skin health, Madilyn saw an opportunity to extend her impact. Together with her partner Clancy, a firefighter by day and packaging whiz by night, she launched The Functional Skin online store. The goal was not only to offer skincare products but also to share the knowledge and methodology she had refined throughout her career.

“Functional skincare is all about working with the skin rather than against it,” Madilyn explains. “It’s not about quick fixes; it’s about addressing root causes and helping people truly understand their skin.”

Madilyn’s career has been shaped by both her personal experiences and a relentless pursuit of education. From her early years struggling with her own skin concerns to her role as a practitioner helping others, her journey has always been about problem-solving and empowerment.

Her work in integrative skin health has led her to challenge conventional skincare narratives, rejecting fear-based marketing and instead promoting education and transparency. She believes that knowledge is the key to sustainable skin health, and she actively works to shift the industry’s conversation from symptom-masking to long-term healing.

“Our goal is to simplify skincare by helping people understand their skin, not overwhelm them with what to avoid,” says Madilyn. “By focusing on education, we can build trust and inspire confidence in making choices that truly support skin health.”

This commitment to education has positioned her as a thought leader in the space. Whether through in-studio treatments, mentoring other practitioners, or sharing insights with clients through The Functional Skin platform, Madilyn is redefining the way skin health is approached. With the continued growth of The Functional Skin Studio and online platform, Madilyn remains dedicated to her mission of advancing integrative skin health. Her professional journey serves as an example of how personal challenges can fuel industry-changing innovation.

“Functional skincare is not a trend—it’s the future of skin health,” she says. “I want to continue challenging outdated practices and supporting therapists in providing results-driven, ethical care that prioritises long-term well-being.”

Madilyn’s approach stands as a testament to the power of merging science with real-life experience, proving that skincare isn’t just about what we put on our skin— it’s about understanding and respecting it at a fundamental level.

Madilyn Sonter

Increases product absorption for deeper penetration of topical skincare products

Restructures, rebalances and optimises cell function

Volumises for a firmer, more lifted appearance

Enhances microcirculation for improved brightness and optimum skin health

Lessens the appearance of UV damage and pore size

The Skin Edit: A Business

Built On Trust, Education, and Results!

By Louise May

In the ever-evolving world of skin health and aesthetic medicine, few clinics stand out quite like The Skin Edit.

Founded by Amy Tremain, a passionate cosmetic nurse with an unwavering commitment to education, integrity, and results, The Skin Edit has grown from a small boutique clinic into a trusted name with two thriving locations in Western Australia. But beyond the treatments and glowing reviews, it’s Amy’s journey—from a determined young mother to a multi-award-nominated business owner—that truly sets this brand apart.

A Journey of Passion and Purpose

Amy’s drive to help people started early. At just 12 years old, she dreamed of owning a hospital. That ambition evolved over the years, leading her to study nursing at Edith Cowan University while balancing single motherhood. It was during this time that she discovered aesthetic medicine, working alongside a doctor with a passion for the field. It was a lightbulb moment—she had found her true calling. After moving to Western Australia, Amy gained experience working in various cosmetic clinics, but she struggled with the business model she encountered. It felt transactional—more about sales than building relationships or delivering real, lasting results. When she became pregnant with her third child, she knew she couldn’t return to that environment. Instead, she decided to create something different: a business built on trust, client education, and ethical skin health.

In 2021, during a time of uncertainty, she took the plunge, signing her first commercial lease with nervous, shaking hands. The Skin Edit was born—a space where clients come first, where education leads the way, and where therapists can build meaningful careers without sacrificing work-life balance. The vision was clear: no gimmicks, no pushy sales— just science-backed treatments and genuine care.

A Growing Brand in a Competitive Industry

What started as a small 72sqm clinic quickly gained traction, and within a year, The Skin Edit had outgrown its space. Amy expanded to a larger location and welcomed her fourth child into the world. The business flourished, earning a reputation for delivering results-driven treatments with a personalised touch. But with success came new challenges— particularly in a digital age flooded with misinformation, influencer promotions, and quick-fix trends.

“In today’s landscape, cutting through the noise is one of the biggest challenges,” Amy explains. “Social media is saturated with uneducated advice and misleading marketing. At The Skin Edit, we’ve worked hard to cement ourselves as a trusted, educated provider. We prioritise sciencebacked treatments and client education, ensuring people understand what’s best for their skin rather than falling for trends.”

Expanding to Quinns Rocks

Growth was inevitable, but Amy didn’t anticipate it happening so soon. When she opened the first Alkimos clinic, she was met with skepticism— many saw the area as too remote. But with strategic forecasting and a strong belief in her vision, she took the risk. Today, the clinic boasts over 1,200 five-star reviews on Fresha and Google, proving that trust and expertise speak louder than location.

The success of Alkimos paved the way for the second location in Quinns Rocks. “We realised how much people valued our approach, and when the demand kept growing, it felt like the right time to expand,” Amy says. “The process hasn’t been easy—it’s been a mix of excitement and challenges. But we’ve ensured that this new space maintains the same high standards and welcoming environment as our original clinic.”

Behind the expansion is a strong support system: Amy’s team, led by manager Courtney, plays a crucial role in maintaining consistency and quality across both locations. “We’ve built something special—a place where clients feel heard and valued. That’s what sets us apart.”

A Different Approach to Skin Health

What makes The Skin Edit stand out in a crowded industry? For Amy, the answer is simple: honesty, education, and a holistic approach.

“We’re not about quick fixes or the latest fads,” she states. “Every skin journey is unique, and our focus is always on long-term skin health. We tailor every treatment plan to the individual and take the time to educate our clients on why we’re recommending certain treatments.”

Consistency across both locations is a top priority. From strict treatment protocols to continuous team training, The Skin Edit ensures every client receives the same high standard of care. “Whether you visit Alkimos or Quinns Rocks, you’ll have the same experience—one built on expertise, genuine care, and a results-driven approach.”

Thriving in a Challenging

Economic Climate

With rising costs and increasing competition, many businesses struggle to stay afloat, but The Skin Edit continues to thrive. Amy attributes this to her client-focused approach.

“Our priority has always been relationships over revenue. We’ve never pressured clients into treatments—they choose us because they trust us. Education has been our greatest tool, helping clients understand the value of investing in their skin.”

Amy has also remained flexible, adjusting offerings to meet clients’ needs while maintaining quality. “We’ve introduced flexible payment options and ensured our team continues to grow professionally. Investing in the right people and maintaining authenticity has been key to our success.”

Building a Team Culture That Empowers Women

One of The Skin Edit’s defining elements is its team of passionate, skilled women—many of whom juggle family and career. Creating a supportive, flexible workplace was non-negotiable for Amy.

“I know how hard it is to balance everything—career, motherhood, life,” she says. “I wanted to build a space where my team felt valued, supported, and able to thrive without sacrificing their personal lives.”

Fostering a strong team culture is just as important. Trust, respect, and shared values are at the core of every hiring decision. “Beyond skill and experience, I look for passion, integrity, and a genuine desire to help people. Our team members don’t just do their jobs—they truly care about making a difference.”

The Power of Holistic Skin Education

Education is a cornerstone of The Skin Edit’s philosophy. Every client undergoes a thorough consultation, ensuring treatments align with their skin’s needs and lifestyle. “We’re all about getting to the root cause of concerns rather than just treating symptoms,” Amy explains.

Collaboration is another key factor. The Skin Edit partners with local businesses, from naturopaths to cosmetic tattooists, to provide a holistic approach to skin health. This broader network allows them to offer a comprehensive, whole-body perspective on beauty and wellness.

“We don’t just want to treat skin—we want to empower people with knowledge so they can make informed decisions about their longterm skin health.”

Recognition and Future Growth

The Skin Edit’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. The business has earned national recognition, winning Silver at the AusMumpreneur Beauty Business Awards and being named a finalist in four categories at the Australian Beauty Industry Awards.

“Being acknowledged at this level is surreal,” Amy says. “It’s a testament to the dedication of my team and the trust our clients place in us. It’s proof that a client-centred, value-driven business model can thrive.”

So, what’s next? Amy has big plans for The Skin Edit. After losing three close friends and family members in 2024, she’s more motivated than ever to embrace growth and leave a lasting impact.

“I want to create opportunities for other women to succeed. That’s why I’ve developed a replicable business model for passionate, like-minded individuals who want to bring The Skin Edit to new locations. Within the next few years, we plan to expand across WA and eventually Australia-wide.”

Despite its growth, The Skin Edit will always stay true to its boutique, client-centred core values. “No matter how big we become, we’ll never lose sight of what makes us special—our commitment to real results, genuine care, and lifelong relationships with our clients.” Looking back, Amy may not have built a hospital, but she has created something equally powerful: a place where people feel confident, empowered, and truly cared for. And for her, that’s more than enough.

@the_skinedit_clinics

Skin + Wax: A Legacy Of Excellence In Skincare

By Louise May

This year marks a major milestone for Skin + Wax, its 12th birthday. Over the past decade, the clinic has grown from a two-person operation into a thriving, seven-figure business, delivering exceptional skincare services to a loyal clientele. Tammy’s unwavering dedication, combined with the hard work of her team, has solidified Skin + Wax as a leader in the industry.

A Vision Brought to Life

Twelve years ago, Tammy embarked on a bold mission, to redefine skincare in Hervey Bay. Armed with little more than a credit card and an unwavering passion, she founded Skin + Wax, a small two-person salon with big ambitions. Today, it has evolved into a multi-award-winning clinic, delivering unparalleled results-driven skin treatments while creating an exceptional client experience.

Nestled in a prime beachfront location, the clinic has grown into an elite team of eight highly skilled therapists, all sharing the same commitment to transforming skincare into an experience. What started as an innovative brow bar and paramedical skin clinic has since become an industry leader, earning national recognition, including being a finalist in the 2020 Small Business Champion Awards.

International Training & Expertise

Tammy’s expertise is world-class, with training experiences spanning some of the most renowned beauty capitals, including London. Her time studying advanced techniques in the UK’s prestigious beauty institutions has provided her with a global perspective on skincare. The influence of Harley Street specialists and industry pioneers has shaped her approach, ensuring that clients at Skin + Wax receive only the most cutting-edge treatments backed by scientific research.

The Family Touch: A Legacy in the Making

At Skin + Wax, family is at the heart of the business. Tammy’s daughters, Madison and Mackenzie, have joined the team, each bringing their own expertise and energy to the clinic.

Madison, with her meticulous attention to detail and natural ability to make clients feel at ease, has become a standout skin expert, known for her transformative treatments. Meanwhile, Mackenzie has carved a niche in brow artistry and social media marketing, ensuring the clinic stays ahead in both beauty trends and digital engagement. Together, they represent a new generation of skin specialists, blending traditional expertise with modern techniques to ensure Skin + Wax remains at the forefront of the industry.

A Powerhouse Team Driving Success

Behind Skin + Wax is a team of dedicated professionals, each bringing unique strengths to the business:

• Joe & Cherie, the management duo, keep operations smooth and efficient, with Cherie excelling in strategic planning while Joe fosters a positive and collaborative workplace culture.

• Jess, the in-house laser expert, ensures technical excellence in advanced treatments.

• Lily, the newest team member, adds fresh energy to the clinic’s dynamic environment.

A strong focus on training and professional development ensures that the Skin + Wax team remains highly skilled and up to date with industry advancements, delivering cutting-edge treatments with confidence.

The Skin + Wax Experience: More Than Just Skincare

Every aspect of the Skin + Wax experience is designed to be seamless, professional, and results-oriented:

• Personalised Consultations: Advanced skin diagnostics, including the Observe Skin Scanner, allow therapists to develop customised treatment plans tailored to individual needs.

• Bespoke Treatments: The clinic incorporates the latest in LED therapy, chemical peels, and skin rejuvenation.

• Client-Centric Aftercare: A 12-week personalised messenger sequence ensures clients feel supported long after their appointment.

This highly personalised approach is what sets Skin + Wax apart, creating long-term relationships with clients who trust in the clinic’s expertise and innovation.

Circadia: The Ultimate Skincare Partner

When it comes to skincare brands, Circadia was the perfect fit for Skin + Wax. After observing the brand for five years, Tammy was convinced that Circadia’s science-backed formulations and emphasis on skin’s natural biological rhythms aligned perfectly with her clinic’s philosophy.

Circadia’s chronobiology-based approach ensures that treatments work in sync with the body’s natural renewal cycles. Some of the clinic’s most sought-after Circadia treatments and products include:

• Oxygen RX Professional Treatment – Perfect for sensitive and acneprone skin, delivering incredible results.

• Micro-Exfoliating Honey Cleanser – A gentle yet effective everyday cleanser.

• Light Day Sunscreen – A lightweight, protective formula adored by clients.

Unlike other brands, Circadia restricts online sales, ensuring that only trained professionals can prescribe and provide these high-quality skincare solutions. This exclusive approach guarantees clients receive expert guidance tailored to their unique skin concerns.

Leading the Way in Wellness: Totally Derma & Mineralist Cosmetics

Beyond skincare treatments, Skin + Wax is expanding its wellness offerings as the exclusive Australian distributor of Totally Derma Regenerative Collagen Supplements. This revolutionary product is science-backed and doctor-recommended, supporting skin, hair, nails, joints, and gut health—a perfect complement to the clinic’s resultsdriven approach.

Additionally, Skin + Wax is enhancing its mineral cosmetics line, Mineralist Cosmetics, which aligns with the clinic’s commitment to clean beauty. These Australian-made, cruelty-free products offer flawless coverage while nourishing and protecting the skin, providing clients with a holistic beauty experience.

Looking to the Future: Expanding Excellence

The next 12 months hold exciting plans for Skin + Wax, including:

• Menopause Coaching: Providing specialised skin treatments tailored for hormonal changes.

• Oncology Skin Treatments: Introducing a new range of cancer-safe skincare solutions.

• Technology Upgrades: Expanding treatment options with HiFu and HydraFacial technologies.

• Industry Engagement: Entering the ABIA Awards and attending the Beauty Expo to stay ahead in the field.

Tammy is also furthering her expertise by enrolling in a Bachelor of Nursing, reinforcing her commitment to holistic, science-backed skincare. Additionally, she is securing her laser license to continue upskilling her team and expanding treatment capabilities.

A Clinic Defined by Passion & Innovation

Twelve years on, Skin + Wax is more than just a skincare clinic—it is a symbol of transformation, expertise, and industry leadership. With a dedicated team, cutting-edge treatments, and a steadfast commitment to excellence, it continues to push boundaries in professional skincare and beauty.

Tammy’s unwavering vision has turned a small business dream into an empire, and the journey is far from over. The future of Skin + Wax is bright, and its legacy in the industry is only just beginning.

@skinandwaxclinic

The Future of Hair Rejuvenation Has Arrived... And it all starts in the scalp !

As the beauty and skincare industry continues to evolve, one modality has consistently stood out for its versatility and effectiveness: microneedling. DermapenWorld™’s Dermapen 4™ has revolutionised the way we approach a range of skin concerns, from fine lines and wrinkles to pigmentation, acne, rosacea, scars and more. However, the scalp is the next frontier where DermapenWorld is making a particularly significant impact by offering clients an advanced solution to one of the most emotionally charged aesthetic challenges: hair loss.

Whether you’re looking to add a new revenue stream, attract new patients, or upgrade the services you already offer, Dermapen 4 and the Dp Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW Collection™ can help position your clinic at the forefront of the hair restoration market.

Elevating Microneedling for Hair Restoration

Microneedling, the process of using fine needles to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin, has long been recognised as a powerful tool for rejuvenation.

The Dermapen 4, the gold standard in microneedling devices, enhances this technique by delivering unparalleled precision, comfort and speed, making it the ideal device for a variety of skin concerns. However, the versatility of Dermapen 4 goes beyond skin resurfacing—its ability to stimulate hair follicles and improve scalp health has been an exciting development for skincare professionals.

Traditionally, microneedling for hair restoration required combination therapies such as PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or prescribed topical medications. But now, DermapenWorld is taking things to the next level with the Dp Dermaceuticals EXO-GROW Collection—a groundbreaking range of products that harness the power of exosome technology to enhance the appearance and density of hair.

Optimising Scalp Health as a Hair Loss Solution

The scalp is home to thousands of hair follicles that are directly impacted by skin health. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that Dermapen 4 procedures for hair loss have been incredibly effective in improving scalp circulation, stimulating follicular activity, breaking down scar tissue that inhibits follicles, enhancing the infusion of topical products and promoting the overall condition of the hair.

The introduction of the EXO-GROW Collection builds on these established benefits, incorporating science-backed, innovative ingredients that work to strengthen and rejuvenate both the scalp and strands.

Tailored Solutions for Different Types of Hair Loss

From androgenetic alopecia (pattern baldness) to traction alopecia and telogen effluvium, there are many different types of hair loss. With the EXOGROW Collection, DermapenWorld is providing professionals with the tools to address concerns in a way that’s both scientifically rigorous and emotionally transformative.

This proprietary Exosome technology can be used as a standalone solution or in conjunction with Dermapen 4 procedures to provide comprehensive care.

Key ingredients like Exosomes, Sophora Japonica Plant Exo Extracts, and PDRN Polynucleotides are scientifically proven to promote hair follicle rejuvenation, while Ceramide ComplexA and Amino Acids work to nourish and strengthen hair from root to tip.

Not All Exosomes Are Created Equal

Clinically proven and powered by Exosomes with a patented IMMUNE TOLERANT HLA-G COMPLEXA™, the EXO-GROW Collection ensures that results don’t plateau. Unlike traditional Exosome solutions, the benefits continue to accumulate over time.

The Power of Synergy: Why EXO-GROW Works Best as a System

The EXO-GROW Collection is designed as an integrated system where each product complements and amplifies the effects of the others. From the professional-only MG-EXO-GROW Meso-Glide™ to the at-home solutions EXO-GROW HAIR TONIC™, SHAMPOO™, CONDITIONER™ and SCALP MASK™, every element works harmoniously to achieve optimal results. There’s even an EXO-GROW COLOUR RECHARGE SHAMPOO BAR™ that further rejuvenates hair by returning greys to their natural colour!

Helping Patients Reclaim Their Identity & Self-Confidence

Hair loss is not just a cosmetic issue—it’s an emotional journey. By offering the EXO-GROW Collection together with Dermapen Treatments in your clinic, you’re not just providing a hair loss solution; you’re offering clients the chance to reclaim their confidence and sense of self.

With clinically proven results and a comprehensive range of products designed to deliver real, lasting outcomes, this collection allows you to attract new clients while expanding the services you already offer.

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

Patients are Looking for a Proven Hair-loss Solution

NOW YOU CAN BE THE EXPERT WHO PROVIDES ONE

With Dermapen 4™ and Dp Dermaceuticals

EXO-GROW™, you’re offering a clinically proven, science-backed solution that addresses the root cause of hair loss: the scalp.

B Boosts density and reduces hair fall.

B Reverse grey hair or beards without colour.

B Backed by science and powered by Exosome technology.

B Functional Haircare: Free from Toxic Chemicals, Artificial Fragrance, SLS & SLES, Sulfates, Silicones, and Parabens.

Upgrade and expand your skincare services to attract new patients.

Scan to Learn More and Start Offering EXO-GROW™ Today.

A People Pleaser or an Overzealous Steamroller ?

By Elle Wilson

As beauty entrepreneurs, we are in the business of people. From clients to team members, our success is directly tied to our ability to build strong, positive relationships. But as we all know, human dynamics can be messy and complex. Conflict, misunderstandings, and personality clashes can be inevitable.

How we choose to show up in these challenging moments can make all the difference.

When faced with interpersonal tension, it’s easy to fall into our own reactive patterns. We may find ourselves people-pleasing, avoiding difficult conversations in an attempt to keep the peace. Or we may swing to the opposite extreme, becoming defensive and domineering, more focused on being right than understanding.

No one enjoys these extremes. They often lead to disconnection and dysfunction, causing anxiety and fear of how we might react.

In business, we need to show up for our clients even when things are not all sparkly and awesome. In fact, it is in these times we often have the most impact. But the question is how. Is it as simple as being a ‘good’ listener? Personally, I don’t believe this is the answer.

Let’s look at the people-pleasing mode. We may feel resentful, unheard, and out of alignment with our own needs when we contort ourselves into pleasing others, unauthentically. Leaving behind our integrity to control the environment and avoid conflict. It isn’t the right answer to interpersonal relations.

On the other hand, when we’re in bulldozer mode, we damage trust and rapport, creating resistance rather than collaboration. This is obvious, and yet these habits are persistent and need to be replaced with new strategy and perspective.

So how can we navigate challenging interpersonal situations in a way that feels authentic, respectful, and productive?

In my experience, it starts with self-awareness.

By learning to recognize our own reactive tendencies, we create space to choose a different response. The faster we train ourselves to check in, the more response time we have to choose wisely.

You become far less fearful of yourself and your reactions. The tiny little moment to look within and say to yourself… ‘Breathe deeply three times’ or ‘Now is not the time’, can be a huge game changer when dealing with challenging circumstances.

We can start to notice when we’re feeling triggered, when our fightor-flight response is activated. Rather than acting on impulse, we can take a breath, and we may ask for another time, for a moment. Time out is also powerful as it allows you to reframe a situation and regroup. Even with difficult client situations, you can never be forced to resolve anything at a given time. You have the power to choose.

A great way to deal with your own emotions is to ask yourself, “What might be going on for the other person?” By asking this question, we may quickly shift out of reactivity and into responsiveness. Of course, this is a new way of dealing with emotions that can very quickly stir up inside of us. We have to be committed to building meaningful relationships.

We can communicate with greater clarity and compassion when we have a powerful intention to want a positive outcome. In a client

relationship, it is our responsibility, more often than not, to make room for the perspectives of our clients.

In this, we have to remind ourselves we aren’t being threatened in any way. Others are allowed their dissatisfaction and grievances. When we allow that, we are not resisting. Without resistance, we are more available.

We can set boundaries with firmness and kindness. We can stay focused on finding win-win solutions rather than proving a point.

Remember, you either want to be right or you want to build an impactful beauty business.

In my own journey as a beauty business owner, learning to navigate challenging relationships more skillfully has been a game-changer. It’s allowed me to build meaningful relationships and the wisdom to know when to end relationships.

Working with people isn’t always easy, but if we see our life as filled with the opportunity to know more, be more, and grow as a person, we see others as a reflection of our own selves. Staying connected is the mission.

These few true statements help me when I am handling difficult situations with grace and professionalism. Life isn’t meant to be fair. People don’t have to be kind. I find a deep peace comes over me when I tell myself the truth. It gives me the resilience to stay true to myself and my vision, even in the face of conflict.

I invite you to start bringing more awareness to how you show up in stressful interpersonal situations. Notice your patterns and practice pausing before reacting. Experiment with approaching difficult conversations from a place of empathy and care.

We are not an island. We need people.

Finally, as we build our capacity to respond rather than react, we increase the culture of our entire industry. We model a new way of being in business, one rooted in heart intelligence, authenticity, and compassion.

@ellewilsonofficial

Oil Me Up, Baby!

By Will Fennell

As the cooler months approach, your client’s skin will likely change. The oiliness often experienced during the summer months will become less noticeable, and for some, there may be a complete shift in their skin’s texture. This change occurs because skin typically becomes drier in cooler weather; humidity and heat significantly influence the amount of oil skin produces. You can observe this change most dramatically in areas with extreme moisture, such as the north of Australia or throughout Asia. For example, stepping out of a hotel’s air conditioning in Bali can quickly lead to frizzy hair and an oily forehead.

Oil often receives a negative reputation in skin care, as it is commonly associated with acne and pimples. However, oil is essential for healthy skin. When oil production slows down due to colder temperatures, harsh products, or aging, the skin’s natural barrier gets compromised, leading to dryness, dehydration, irritation, and premature wrinkles.

We must educate our clients that oil is crucial in maintaining the correct skin pH, protecting it from bacteria and moisture loss, and keeping our skin’s natural bacteria happy. I often discuss this topic with my Guru, Gay Wardle. We agree that oil is an essential but frequently maligned ingredient in skincare. My heart sings when I hear this fantastic educator start talking about the skin barrier and the ingredients it needs. Please do yourself a favour and join her online skin community. It is the very best source of education I know to be available. Go to https:// gwsi.com.au

With this in mind, many clients must adjust their moisturiser for winter or their ageing skin. The light hydrating gel or fluid suitable for summer and our youth often won’t have enough protection as the seasons and our skin demands change. Unfortunately, many hesitate to use heavier creams for fear of breakouts and an uncomfortable, greasy feeling. This issue often arises if you choose creams containing lanolin or petroleum, as these ingredients are known to cause breakouts and are typically added to formulations to reduce production costs while maintaining a thicker texture.

While reading ingredient lists can be tedious, educating your clients about what they apply to their skin is crucial. Websites like www.cosmeticanalysis.com provide comprehensive listings that help identify both beneficial and harmful ingredients. The skincare company I work with, BIODROGA, grades each of its products using this site. It is the most extensive independent analysis of skincare and ingredients available worldwide. Be cautious of phone apps sponsored by skin companies, as they may not provide unbiased information.

Educate your clients that when selecting a medium to heavy cream for winter, look for beneficial ingredients near the top, such as ceramides, olive oil, shea butter, hemp seed oil, jojoba oil, and evening primrose oil. These ingredients nourish and protect the skin without causing breakouts, AND they are “clean” as they do not come from petrochemicals.

Remind your clients that ingredients are listed from most to least used, so anything listed at the bottom is unlikely to have a significant impact. However, it may be included to give the product a more impressive profile.

My passion is educating my students and clients. Be the point of information your clients go to instead of reading what is often misinformation on the World Wide Web.

And don’t even get me started on “skinfluencers.” My editor won’t let me use the language I need to describe this nonsense.

Good luck, Will x

Will is the Australian distributor and International Trainer for BIODROGA www.biodroga.com.au

Boosting Revenue .

By Dani Boerma

Boosting revenue in a skin clinic or spa without hefty investments in costly equipment is possible through various actions. Additionally, there are budget friendly options available for purchasing equipment that can help maintain cash flow in your business.

Upselling and Cross Selling

Train your staff to suggest complementary services and products during services. Additional training in selling techniques can boost staff confidence and enhance sales.

Loyalty Programs

Implement a loyalty program that rewards repeat customers with discounts or free services after a certain number of visits. This encourages clients to return more frequently.

Package Deals

Create service packages that combine multiple treatments at a discounted rate. This can entice clients to spend more during a single visit.

Promotional Events

Host special events or themed days (e.g., “fabulous Fridays”) where services are offered with gift offerings or include unique experiences, like mini makeovers.

Referral Discounts

Encourage satisfied clients to refer friends by offering them and their friends a bonus add on their next visit.

Social Media Engagement

Use social media to showcase your work, share client testimonials, and promote special offers. Engaging content can attract new clients and retain current ones.

Retail Products

Sell beauty products that align with your services. Ensure your staff is knowledgeable about these. products so they can recommend them to clients.

Training and Workshops

Offer workshops or classes on beauty techniques, skincare, makeup application and nutrition advice. This can create an additional revenue stream and position your salon as an authority in the beauty industry.

Flexible Hours

Consider extending your operating hours to accommodate clients who may not be able to visit during traditional hours.

Customer Feedback

Regularly solicit feedback from clients to understand their needs and preferences better. This can help you tailor services and improve client satisfaction.

By implementing these scenarios, you can enhance customer experience and loyalty while driving revenue growth without significant upfront investment.

Leasing equipment can be a strategic move for salons looking to increase revenue without the burden of high upfront costs. The main benefits of leasing equipment include:

Lower Initial Costs

Leasing typically requires a smaller initial investment compared to buying equipment outright. This allows salons to allocate capital toward other areas, such as marketing or staff training.

Access to the Latest Technology

Leasing enables salons to use the latest equipment without being tied to it long-term. This is particularly beneficial in the beauty industry, where technology and trends evolve rapidly.

Flexible Payment Options

Leasing often comes with flexible payment plans that can be tailored to the salon’s cash flow, making it easier to manage financial commitments

Tax Benefits

Lease payments can be deducted as business expenses on tax returns, potentially reducing the overall tax burden for the salon.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Many leasing agreements include maintenance and servicing, which can save salons on repair costs and ensure that equipment is always in top condition.

Try Before You Buy

Leasing allows salons to test equipment before making a long-term commitment. This helps in determining whether a particular piece of equipment meets the salon’s needs.

Increased Service Offerings

By leasing specialised equipment, salons can expand their service menu without the risk of investing in equipment that may not be used frequently.

Improved Cash Flow

With lower upfront costs and predictable monthly payments, salons can maintain better cash flow, enabling them to invest in other growth opportunities.

Upgrade Opportunities

At the end of a lease term, salons often have the option to upgrade to newer models, ensuring they always have access to the best equipment.

Minimised Risk

Leasing reduces the financial risk associated with purchasing expensive equipment, as salons can avoid significant losses if the equipment does not perform as expected or if the market changes. By leveraging these benefits, salons can enhance their service menu and overall profitability while maintaining financial flexibility.

For any questions on increasing revenue, I can be contacted on dani@totalcoachingacademy.com

OMG… Not Another New Year’s Article…

By James Vivian

Wait, hear me out! Because I’m trying something new this year and I want to share it with you.

Whether or not you’ve set your intentions for the year ahead AKA 2025, a new year brings new opportunities, new curveballs, new adventuresthe list goes on and on. It’s happening whether we like it or not.

I’ve heard more talk this new year’s period than years before about the art of not setting intentions/goals/new year’s resolutions. People are saying that we are simply ‘enough’ for making it through another year and to not put too much pressure on ourselves to change, improve, plot and scheme.

It’s like the anti-new year’s resolution.

Now, I believe there’s something out there for everyone. And so whist not setting intentions and goals for the year ahead might resonate with some people this new year’s period, other’s will continue – like me – to dream for better things.

And that’s what 2025 is all about for me…being better.

A better leader, a better therapist, a better friend, a better partner, a better pole dancer.

‘So what?’ you might be thinking. Sounds pretty stock-standard new year’s stuff to me. You see, for me, my new year’s resolutions are most always about being bigger! More clients, more equipment, more awards, more holidays, more staff, more stuff.

See the difference?

Because I think, for me, I’ve realised that when you’re striving for bigger, you don’t always get better, such as continuing to support, nurture and maintain the things that can be most important.

As I’ve been contemplating this more and more, it dawned on me that I feel like I’ve been focusing more on the external aspects of our business as opposed to the internal. So what does this mean exactly?

When I think about what’s more important to our business and what demands the most amount of focus and care, these are the internal aspect that I’m referring to, such as policies and procedures, staff satisfaction, staff development, client journeys, device utilisation and maintenance, retail reviews etc. I’m sure there are others and these internal features will be unique to each of us in business. If I think about these, these have always been at the forefront of my focus, however, over the years, as business and times change, things can pull your attention to other areas. Don’t get me wrong, there is nothing wrong with this. I mean, isn’t that what’s being in business and being entrepreneurial is all about? Trying new things? Getting outside of your day to day? Giving it a go and getting it terribly wrong? Whilst this can all be exciting, addictive and enticing, it can also be exhausting, expensive and disappointing.

And these are the things that I’m referring to when I say external focus’s.

But before I go on, is this making sense? Are you following? Also, Is anyone still this reading this? If you are here’s a joke. Why did the beauty therapist, dermal therapist and dermatologist start a band? Because they had pore-fect pitch.

When I think of external variables, I’m thinking marketing, social media, speaking at events, sitting on committees, entering awards, PR, working with influencers, networking, mentoring, collaborating etc.

Now I’m not saying that I am dropping all of the above. If I agreed to that now I know I would be bored in 5 minutes and driving everyone at work mad (or more mad than usual).

What I am saying is that I am reframing what is truly important to me this year, and what – if I was to limit my focus other more external things –would not be such a bad thing for our business and for me personally.

One way that I am going to attempt focusing more internally this year, is giving more consideration to what I say ‘yes’ to. I think historically, and I’m sure many of you will have been in this position or may still be in this position, I say ‘yes’ to absolutely everything. Firstly, it’s always an honour to be asked to be involved with something or to get an opportunity, and secondly, you never know what it might lead to…and I mean…what’s the worst that can happen, right?!

Whilst saying ‘yes’ can lead to career highlights, money making, profile building etc. these can sometimes do the opposite or even if they do not, can come at the detriment to what’s really important.

As we move into 2025, we will celebrate 15 years in business this year. With an award winning team to support and protect, and a loyal and committed clientele to care for, the time to give them my utmost focus is now. For the next 12-months at least. And then who knows? There’s a whole new set of resolutions around the corner.

Wishing you all a wonderful 2025 ahead both professionally and personally.

@jamesvivian

Marketing Is Not Always About Selling !

By Cait Muir

Is there anything more cringey than seeing a clinic posting “20% off for new clients only” or “$50 voucher when you book today + tomorrow” …ick. It’s hardly attractive to a high-end client, is it? It just SCREAMS of desperation and says “calling all discount, inconsistent, broke clients” …most of us don’t want those anywhere near our business.

No shade to our beautiful bread and butter clients, that is not who I’m referring to here. But discounts generally attract discount clients, and that’s a NO THANK YOU for most of us. Well thought out, precisely planned, and carefully executed marketing is the golden ticket to a booked-out clinic and a productive business.

So, what’s the solution? How do we better market our clinics and spas, and what strategies can we use to ensure long-term success?

First things first - DECIDE ON THE OUTCOME YOU WANT before you plan out the pathway to get there!

What this means is don’t just do what everyone else is doing because it looks like it’s performing on social media…

For example, why are you running a competition if you want to get more bookings? Comps are for building brand awareness and social media engagement. If you want to get more bookings, why aren’t you looking into referral programs or incentivising bookings?

Another example of starting with the end in mind was for Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and Christmas. We knew our clients wanted their treatments paid for (in the form of vouchers or memberships) so every year we used to market to the partners and families of our predominantly female clientele… how did we do that?

We asked for “hint drops”, so when our clients were in the clinic for their appointment, we would get them to write what they wanted on a card, with their name, their partners/family members name, and their contact details. From there, we would then send the “hint” to this nominated person, and they would then order it from us without our client having to buy it for themselves. Genius!

Next, SPEAK THEIR LANGUAGE.

When writing marketing, STOP using too much technical terminology that will confuse and intimidate your ideal clients. Write in language that speaks to your clients like as if you were having a face-to-face conversation with them. What do they need to know?

What’s not relevant?

makes their skin glow, or that it has great longevity; things that benefit the client.

A good way of explaining this is FEATURES vs. BENEFITS…

A feature is where a product was made, its ingredients, that it’s got pretty packaging and looks great in your bathroom, for example, or that a service uses this specific tool, or piece of equipment that’s exclusive to your clinic, or this specific method.

A benefit is about the performance of the product or service and how it will help them – things like, that it removes their hair painlessly, it’s anti-aging, it

Sometimes the features aren’t very necessary to discuss or “sell” in your marketing, because after all – our job is literally to solve problems and to create a result for our clients. So instead of talking jargon with technical terms and irrelevant wording, instead talk about how they will feel, how they will look, and how much better their life will be after buying whatever service or product you’re selling.

Also, KNOW WHO YOU’RE TALKING TO.

You need to spend some time identifying who your ideal clients are. What are their demographics? Their age, gender, location, marital status, family, career.

What are their psychographics? Their lifestyle, hobbies, their style, their beliefs and values, their interests.

And following on from that, what are their problems? What causes their problems? What’s the solution to their problems? How can you solve their problems in your clinic? What result do they want? How can you make their life better with your products and treatments?

Get to know them on a deeper level so you know what they want and can create marketing that makes your prospects take action and convert into paying clients.

With marketing, you must always PLAN AHEAD!

What’s the saying – failing to plan is planning to fail? Yep, that! And this is where the ‘desperation marketing’ comes into play. When you don’t plan ahead for the busier and quieter seasons of your business that are upcoming, or the key dates like your business’s birthday, or holiday’s like Christmas that was abovementioned, all of a sudden you have unfillable gaps and low sales, and you try to do some cheap and nasty quick-fix-bodies-on-beds strategy that leaves you overworked and underpaid.

Marketing is a long-term plan; and with consistent effort, thoughtful input, and the mindset of attracting the right clients; helping them and making their lives better, you can’t fail!

• Why are you only sending an email twice a year to sell something, but you’re silent otherwise?

• Why are you only sending blast texts when you want to clear old products or fill your book quickly?

• Are you still doing the ‘we miss you here’s a $20 voucher’ texts for people who haven’t returned, opposed to actually spending the time and effort reaching out to your non-returners for feedback? How’s that working out for ya? Eek.

Try sending a monthly or quarterly newsletter just saying g’day to your database and staying in touch. Make the effort.

Try doing a ‘client of the month’ where you celebrate the people who support your business with a free treatment or product.

And of course, don’t just post and ghost on socials. Know the peak times to post and make it happen 3-5 times a week. Keep engaging with your people from all angles!

“Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook” – MARKETING IS NOT ALWAYS ABOUT SELLING.

Okay so it’s a boxing term – if you don’t get it, look it up *insert winky face here* ha ha

No, really, with consistent contact you shouldn’t need to be selling something every time you contact your clients. You should really, really, not do this. Instead, try sharing advice, tips that will make their treatments last longer and their days easier, celebrate exciting milestones in your business, and build a community of fans who just wanna get amongst your amazing business. That’s the ‘jabs’!

Then once you’ve built rapport and a trustworthy relationship with your clients, and they love you and your vibe, and they’re excited to hear from you, and they’re engaging with you – THEN and only then sell something to them… that’s the ‘right hook’!

Constantly asking for money, and bookings, and sales, and just selling stuff for the sake of it (opposed to giving them something that they need) is the biggest ick-style bad salesmanship. A big no-no!

TRACK YOUR GAINZ

What’s ‘the gainz’ you ask? That’s your return on investment AKA how much money you are making from the investment you made into the marketing strategy.

How do you know what’s working if you don’t know how your clients are finding you? Or you don’t track who’s buying from your online store? Or you don’t know who’s clicking your ads? Or you don’t know who’s referring to your clinic?

I once had a client paying $5,000 per year for a radio ad three years running, and once I made her track her ROI, she worked out that she only had one $250 booking from that $15,000 investment… worth it?

I think not. She could’ve saved herself and her biz an eyewatering $10,000 if she had’ve identified this and cancelled the radio at after the first year.

Track everything, queen!

Last but not least, you should always BELIEVE IN WHAT YOU’RE SELLING

If you and your staff don’t actually like what you offer in terms of your products and treatments, they literally won’t sell. Your clients will read between the lines of your faux marketing, and they’ll be turned off, or they’ll see it all over your face in the clinic and they probably won’t like them too. You’ve gotta love, love, love what you do, and love what you offer!

To finish this article off today, I just want to remind you to HAVE A LITTLE FUN with your marketing and client contact in general. Show your personality, let your freak flag fly, think outside the box and stand out from the crowd. If you’re bored with what you’re reading, your clients and prospects probably are too. Be real, be exciting, and enjoy the process.

X Cait Muir

Our books are currently open to new clients, inquire at iconiccoaching.com.au

Building Success with Structure: The Key to Staff Retention and Business Growth In 2025.

By Elle Huempel

2025, one word has defined the goals for so many business owners, structure. It’s the foundation, the backbone, and the guide for everything we do. What I love most about my coaching journey is working with business owners that choose to reconnect with the basics, focusing on those essential yet often overlooked areas that hold everything together.

STRUCTURE AND SIMPLICITY

Policies and procedures, team meetings staff appraisals, these tasks often find themselves in the “too hard basket” or on the “one day” list. But business owners are diving into these tasks with a positive energy, and I couldn’t be prouder to support them as they cross their T’s and dot their I’s. Together, I am loving putting the pieces of the puzzle together for their business not only with them as the business owner but with their team too.

Every policy, procedure, or appraisal isn’t just a task to tick off, it’s a step towards clarity, consistency, and growth. These processes aren’t just “admin” jobs (although I do hear that’s how it feels), they’re the glue that holds teams together and lays the groundwork for longterm retention. It’s often like your housework, no one looks forward to doing it, but when it’s done gosh it feels good!

One of the most common frustrations I hear from business owners is, “I invest so much time in my staff, but they still leave.” It’s heartbreaking and frustrating, but when we dig deeper, the question often becomes - were the right processes in place to support and retain them?

THE RETENTION PUZZLE

We all dream of client retention. But what about staff retention? In my experience, this is the bigger dream. Retaining a well-trained, engaged team doesn’t just happen overnight. It requires intention, effort and yes, structure!

How often when assessing why someone may have resigned it is noticed:

• The honeymoon period ends, the enthusiasm faded.

• A new team member is employed & is thrown into the deep end but expected to just survive.

• Promises of recognition and support in the beginning are made but rarely fulfilled as often it is needed for a newly recruited team member.

These situations are avoidable with the right systems in place. Policies and procedures ensure consistency. Regular team meetings keep communication flowing. Staff appraisals provide an opportunity for feedback & growth and are a fantastic way to give recognition, motivate, allow clear direction and professional development. These aren’t just “nice to haves” they are essential for a workplace where staff feel valued, supported and engaged.

BUILDING A FOUNDATION OF RECOGNITION AND SUPPORT

Recognition matters and I think the small things matter most. Allocating time to check in with your team, listening to their concerns, and showing genuine appreciation goes a long way in building loyalty. How powerful a small gesture or even the most genuine ‘Thank You’ at the end of the day can matter so much.

Equally important is preparation. Before a new team member starts, ask yourself:

• Are they truly ready for the role?

• Do they have the tools, training, and support they need to succeed?

• Have you set clear expectations and communicated with them effectively?

Throwing someone in and hoping for the best isn’t a strategy, it is a recipe for burnout and staff turnover. Taking the time to set them up for success from day one creates a foundation for long term retention.

NOTHING WORTH IT COMES EASY

Let’s face it!! Putting these systems in place isn’t easy. It takes time, effort, and commitment. How many times I hear, I know I really do need to action it! But the rewards are more than worth it. Staff stick around, clients keep coming back, and the energy in the workplace shifts to something positive and productive. AND your clients feel it too!

When the hard work is done, it is like magic. Teams bond, business grows, and the dream of staff retention becomes a reality. And that’s what I am here for, to bring the positive energy and support needed to make it happen.

Turn those “one day” tasks into today’s accomplishments.

LOOKING AHEAD

Take the time to revisit your basics. Review your policies and procedures. Schedule those team meetings and appraisals you have said you would & haven’t just yet. Listen to your staff, they matter. Recognise their efforts, recognition feels so good! These steps may seem small, but they add up to something incredible. Remembering consistency is key. Staff retention doesn’t happen by chance, it’s built through effort, care, and consistency. And when you get it right, it’s like watching the pieces of a puzzle fall into place. There is no better feeling than seeing a team that sticks like glue, supporting each other.

I would love to hear from you! Scan the QR Code to get in contact!

Why Every Therapist and Business Owner Needs A Personal Brand – And How To Build It !

By Tamara Reid

Let’s talk about something that can completely change the way people see you and your business: your personal brand. I know, it sounds like one of those marketing-girlie words that gets thrown around a lot but stick with me - it’s genuinely important.

Whether you’re a therapist, a salon owner, or running your own clinic, having a personal brand is like giving yourself a little spotlight in a big, crowded room. It’s how people know who you are, what you’re great at, and why they should trust you. And the best part? It’s not as complicated as it sounds to build one. Let’s dive into why it matters and how you can get started.

Why You Need a Personal Brand

1. It Helps You Stand Out

Let’s be real: the beauty and wellness industry is packed. Everyone’s trying to grab attention, and clients have endless options. Building a personal brand helps you cut through the noise. It’s your chance to say, “Hey, I’m not just another therapist—I’m the expert in this.” It could be skin health during menopause, holistic treatments, or that signature massage technique only you offer. When you put yourself out there, people start to associate your name with your niche, and that makes you stand out.

2. It Builds Credibility

Think about the people you look up to in our industry - they all have one thing in common: credibility. They’ve taken the time to show what they know and how they can help. When you build a personal brand, you’re not just telling people you’re good at what you do - you’re showing them. Sharing your expertise, your journey, and even your opinions online can make a huge difference in how people perceive you.

3. It Gets You Noticed by the Right People

Here’s the thing about having a strong personal brand: it makes opportunities come to you. Media, collaborations, speaking gigs—they all start with people knowing who you are and what you’re about. Editors and brands aren’t going to guess that you’re an expert; they need to see it. If your personal brand is clear and consistent, it makes it so much easier for the right people to find you and say, “I want to work with them.”

How to Build a Personal Brand

So, how do you actually do this? Good news—it’s easier than you think.

1. Show Up on Social Media (as You, Not Just Your Business)

This is a big one. Your personal brand is about you, so it’s important that people get to know the person behind the treatments. Start by creating accounts under your name (not just your business name) and share content that highlights your expertise. Think of it as building trust with your audience.

Share tips, behind-the-scenes moments, client success stories (with permission!), or even what inspires you. People want to connect with a person, not a faceless business. The more they see you, the more they’ll trust you.

2. Find Your Niche and Stick to It

If you try to talk to everyone, you’ll end up talking to no one. What’s your thing? What do you want to be known for? Maybe it’s acne solutions, stress-relieving facials, or helping women feel confident during menopause. Whatever it is, lean into it.

Your niche is what sets you apart. It’s tempting to post about a million different things, but staying focused helps people understand exactly what you’re an expert in. They’ll come to you because they know you’re the go-to person for that.

3. Be Consistent (and Show Up Regularly)

Here’s the tough-love part: building a personal brand takes time, and consistency is non-negotiable. This doesn’t mean you have to post every day, but you do need to show up regularly. Whether it’s once a week or three times a week, pick a schedule you can stick to and keep at it.

And don’t stress about being perfect! People love realness. Share your wins, your challenges, and even the little moments that make you passionate about what you do.

At the end of the day, your personal brand is about letting people see the real you—the one who’s passionate, skilled, and genuinely loves what they do. It’s how you build trust, stand out in the industry, and attract amazing opportunities.

So, if you haven’t started building your personal brand yet, now’s the time. Show up as yourself, find your niche, and be consistent. I promise, it’ll be worth it.

@tamarareiddd

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Plan for Success: Why Your Retail Lease Needs a Solid Business Pitch

By Kelly Cunningham – Your Leasing Co

When it comes to securing the perfect retail space, you might think location and aesthetics take centre stage. But behind every successful Lease agreement is an essential element: a well-crafted business plan. Whether you’re a fresh entrepreneur or a seasoned retailer, presenting a robust business plan during Lease negotiations can make a world of difference. Here’s why your Landlord is keen to see it and how it benefits you.

Setting the Stage: Build Trust Right from the Get-go

A business plan acts as a crucial trust building tool. When you share a detailed plan with potential Landlords, it signals that you are serious, prepared and committed to your venture. Landlords want assurance that their Tenants are capable and will sustain a stable, profitable operation over the Lease term. Through financial forecasts, marketing strategies and operational plans, your business plan provides this assurance, enhancing your credibility.

events, you showcase resilience and foresight, qualities that Landlords value highly. This preparedness can reassure Landlords that you’re equipped to maintain your operations successfully, even in the face of adversity.

Show Me the Numbers: Lay Down Your Financial Blueprint

Landlords are particularly interested in the financial health and projections of your business. A business plan articulates your anticipated revenue, profit forecasts and anticipated expenses, offering Landlords a glimpse into your business acumen. What’s in it for you? This transparency can facilitate a smoother negotiation process, potentially leading to more favourable Lease terms, be it rent reductions, flexible payment schedules or capital contributions towards your fit out.

Market Match: Prove You’ve Done Your Homework

Retail success often hinges on understanding the market and aligning with local customer needs. A compelling business plan demonstrates that you’ve thoroughly researched the market, identified your target customer base and mapped out strategies to meet their demands. By showing Landlords you’re knowledgeable about the market landscape, you reassure them that your business is well positioned to thrive, reducing their risk and building confidence in your potential as a Tenant.

Visionary Ventures: Illuminate Your Business Goals

While financials are crucial, your vision and goals can captivate Landlords and set your business apart. A strong business plan outlines your short term and long-term objectives and how you plan to achieve them. This visionary aspect not only demonstrates your ambition and drive but also helps Landlords see the alignment between your business aspirations and their property’s potential.

Plan for the Unplanned: Showcase Your Adaptability

Landlords appreciate Tenants who are prepared for uncertainty. A part of your business plan should address potential challenges and outline contingency plans, demonstrating your ability to adapt to changing circumstances. By illustrating how you plan to handle unforeseen

Win Win Solutions: Find Common Ground for Long Term Success

A well-constructed business plan serves as a foundation for mutual understanding and cooperation. When Landlords and Tenants operate from a position of clarity, it’s easier to negotiate Lease terms that benefit both parties. By articulating your needs, operational hours and special requirements, your business plan guides productive conversations that lead to a balanced Lease arrangement. This harmony lays the groundwork for a longstanding, positive Landlord Tenant relationship.

Beyond the Lease: Leverage Your Plan for Business Growth

The benefits of a solid business plan extend beyond securing a Lease. It serves as a roadmap for your retail journey, guiding your decisions, strategies and growth. By regularly revisiting and updating your business plan, you can track progress, pivot when necessary and seize new opportunities — all of which enhance your business’s resilience and profitability.

Get Planning

A robust business plan is more than a mere formality in the Lease negotiation process; it’s a strategic tool that showcases your readiness, capacity and vision. For Landlords, it offers vital insights into your business’s potential, fostering trust and facilitating favourable terms. For you, it’s a dynamic framework that not only supports successful a Lease but also underpins your retail journey’s long-term success.

At Your Leasing Co., we are “A Voice for Tenants,” championing your interests in Lease negotiations to secure unbeatable terms. Have questions or want to maximise your next Lease?

Call us for a free, no obligation consult on 1300 356 702 @yourleasingco

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My Lessons Learned in Coaching Salon Owners in 2025.

By Jay Chapman

Over the past year, my coaching business has gone through a transformative journey. The challenges we faced, the strategies we tested, and the lessons we learned hold powerful takeaways for any salon owner looking to evolve their business. So, I am going to take you on a journey through the highs, lows, and everything in between, with the hope you’ll find something here to inspire your next move.

Starting with the Mess! The Power of Refinement

Last year, we threw everything at our marketing manager, Tyler. If you’ve ever felt like you’re drowning in the chaos of juggling too many tasks, you’ll know the feeling. Tyler was doing an incredible job, but our lack of structure and clarity in her role meant results were inconsistent.

By stepping back and defining her key performance indicators (KPIs) and building a clear weekly rhythm for her role, we transformed everything! (Including her sanity!) Mondays now start with clear intentions for the week, and Fridays end with reflection and adjustments. This simple change of bookending the week has helped us refine her workload, scrap unnecessary tasks, and focus on highimpact activities.

For salon owners, the lesson is simple but powerful, clarity in roles and structure isn’t just for big companies.

Free vs. Paid: Challenging the Norms of Value

We kicked off 2025 with three lead-generation strategies, two of which required potential clients to pay to participate. But the numbers weren’t coming through. In true Oprah style (except with a few more swear words), I decided to say, “Let’s make everything free!” While I was terrified that people wouldn’t take free offers seriously.

The volume of engagement skyrocketed. Giving away value for free didn’t cheapen the experience, it amplified the number of meaningful conversations we were having with potential clients.

In your salon, I’m not suggesting that you need to make everything free. There is a lot of talk in the industry at the moment about discount marketing and how it can destroy your brand. It’s not true if it is done right. Free/discounted services doesn’t mean you’re undervaluing yourself! It’s about opening the door for people to experience your expertise, and if you’re good at what you do, they’ll stick around.

Chasing Consistency: The Challenge of Follow-Through

Salon owners, you know what it’s like when a new client walks in, you wow them, and then… they disappear. Retention is the eternal battle, isn’t it? One of the strategies we teach our clients is the “lost client” follow-up, reaching out to clients who haven’t returned in 12 weeks.

Here’s the truth! most salon owners hate this task. It exposes the fear of rejection and forces you to confront areas of your business that aren’t working. But those who embrace it see results. Retention isn’t glamorous, it’s a slow burn. Yet it’s one of the highest-return activities you can commit to.

If you’re resisting follow-up tasks in your salon, ask yourself…. is your discomfort worth the missed opportunity?

Breaking Free from Mediocrity: Building the “Wow” Factor

When we describe our coaching program to potential clients, they’re often blown away by the level of detail, thought, and support we provide. And yet, in 2025, we’re challenging ourselves to go from “bloody good” to “oh my god, this is amazing.”

We’ve started by overhauling our resources, re-recording every piece of content to make it easier to consume, more concise, and up to date. We’re incorporating personal development elements, creating communitydriven challenges, and celebrating client milestones like never before. It’s all about delighting our clients at every step of their journey.

You can borrow this idea too. What would it look like to take your client experience from good to unforgettable? Whether it’s a handwritten thankyou note, celebrating their birthday or introducing unexpected perks

Numbers Tell a Story, But Don’t Obsess Over Them

One of the toughest lessons for us in the past year was realizing that client numbers don’t always grow as fast as we’d like. It’s easy to panic when the numbers don’t look good but obsessing over growth for the sake of growth often leads to bad decisions.

Instead, we focused on upgrading and retaining our existing clients. We introduced flexible options to keep clients engaged, even when they were struggling financially or mentally. We packaged one-on-one coaching sessions to solve specific problems, making it easier for hesitant clients to say yes.

Leaning into Collaboration

One of our biggest breakthroughs came from recognizing that we don’t have to do it all ourselves. Whether it was partnering with a digital marketing agency or leaning into collaborations with product companies to boost retail sales during our challenges, we realized that when you focus on collective success, everyone wins.

This applies to you! Could you collaborate with product reps, partner with local businesses, or join forces with other salons for training events or promotions? Collaboration doesn’t dilute your brand; it strengthens your position as a connected business.

Lessons for 2025 and Beyond

Looking back, the journey wasn’t smooth. It was messy, full of trial and error, and peppered with moments of self-doubt. But every setback gave us an opportunity to refine, simplify, and improve. The salon world is no different. It’s fast, chaotic, and always evolving.

Jay Chapman is the co-founder of Your Growth Coaches. Visit www. yourgrowthcoaches.com.au for our events, freebies and links to our podcast

To Expand , Or Not To Expand: That Is The Question

By Rachel Diaz - Founder, LoveBeauty Skin Clinic

A common question I often receive from my mentoring clients is, “When is the right time to expand?”, particularly in relation to hiring new team members and seeking larger commercial spaces.

Expanding your business is an exciting milestone, but it requires careful planning and execution. Reflecting on our own journey, here are some of the practices we implemented to ensure our growth was both warranted and sustainable.

Establishing a Strong Foundation

Before expanding, we critically assessed our core operations. Growth is only possible when your existing business is running smoothly. For us, this meant refining our reception and training processes, while optimising customer service and administrative tasks to ensure a consistent client experience and efficient treatment protocols that deliver the best results.

With our team’s help, we developed detailed protocols for every department within our business to maintain quality for both new and long-standing employees. Standardised training ensured every team member embodied our brand values, language, knowledge, and skills.

Recognising the Signs of Readiness

Expansion should never be based solely on ambition—it must be driven by actual data and client demand. We knew we were ready to find a larger clinic due to the (somewhat stressful) consistent demand from our current waitlist and the number of clients we were turning away.

Consistent Demand

During the COVID period, we experienced sustained growth in client bookings and enquiries that exceeded our current capacity. Our existing team couldn’t accommodate the additional responsibilities or clients, so we proactively planned, hired, and trained ahead of time. This allowed us to open and book two more full-time columns from our waitlist even before launching the new space. A thorough review of our cash flow confirmed we could invest in this growth without jeopardising operations despite the increased overheads.

Building Scalable Systems

Growth isn’t just about hiring more team members, opening more locations, or expanding services—it’s about replication and scalability. We asked ourselves, “Would our current processes work at triple the volume?” Some key adjustments included:

• Implementing superior POS technology to streamline appointment scheduling and inventory management.

• Creating a replicable onboarding system for new hires to maintain consistency. When we relocated to our 270-square-metre clinic, we already had the larger clientele

to keep us booked and busy. However, we quickly realised it felt like opening an entirely new business. We needed more reception staff, additional retail products on the shelves, professional stock readily available in rooms, and double the devices—such as skin needling pens and LEDs—to service everyone effectively.

Focusing on Brand Identity

Expansion is an opportunity to amplify your brand. To ensure we didn’t lose our personal touch or connection with clients, we stayed true to our original mission. We reinforced our brand’s unique values across all marketing, client, and internal communications. As a clientled business, our expansion decisions always aligned with what our customers value most— holistic, results-driven care.

Testing the Waters

Before committing to expansion, we gathered client feedback to ensure the new location and treatment offerings aligned with their needs. They were just as excited as we were, and we took them along on the journey via social media. By creating hype and excitement, we were fully booked before our big opening.

Building a Strong Team

We recognised that successful expansion depended on our people. A strong, motivated team is essential for sustainable growth. We invested in professional group development and maintained open communication. Weekly check-ins helped manage any growing pains and ensured alignment with our vision for the future. This also marked the perfect time to bring in a People and Culture Manager to support both myself and the larger team.

Knowing When to

Pause

It’s important to recognise that not every opportunity is the right one. Growth should never come at the expense of quality. If resources, finances, or team morale feel stretched, it’s okay to pause and regroup before moving forward. Timing is everything.

By focusing on preparation, scalability, and staying true to your values, you can grow in a way that feels both authentic and long-lasting. Remember, expansion isn’t just about growing bigger—it’s about growing better, together!

@lovebeautyskinclinic

Turning Online Trolls into Triumph: Overcoming Jealousy and Negativity Targeted at your Business.

By Carly Knowles

In today’s digital age, social media is an essential tool for businesses, allowing us to showcase our services, educate clients, and connect with our community. However, with visibility comes vulnerability, especially to online trolls who hide behind fake profiles to tear down businesses that are thriving.

The beauty and hair industry thrives on trust, creativity, and personal connections with clients. But with the rise of social media, business owners and influencers alike are increasingly facing a dark side. Online bullying, trolling, and fake Google reviews that can damage businesses and artists reputation. These negative interactions can be especially harmful when you’ve worked so hard to build a positive image and community. Rather than focusing on the emotional reaction that this type of trolling can have on you, actively navigate the challenges and protect both your mental health and your brand.

Recently, our clinic experienced this firsthand when an anonymous profile was created with the sole purpose of posting malicious comments on our social media. The messages suggested we must not be busy because we “have too much time to film” and criticised our content as “cringy.”

While it was initially disheartening, it quickly became clear that this was not a reflection of our business, rather it was a reflection of the person behind the screen. Instead of letting negativity take hold, we chose to flip the script and turn this experience into a powerful lesson on resilience, positivity, and industry solidarity.

The individual who attempted to troll our business clearly demonstrated a very narrow- minded perspective, failing to understand the realities of running a successful, high-revenue clinic like ours. Their assumption that being consistent with content creation must mean we are “quiet” or struggling for clients, is not only outdated but completely misinformed. In today’s digital landscape, thriving businesses prioritise content as a key component of their strategy, engaging with their audience, showcasing their expertise, and building brand awareness. The fact that we consistently create and share content is not a sign of inactivity, it’s a sign of strategic focus and commitment to our growth.

What’s even more ironic is their perception that our content is “cringy.” This actually works in our favour because, whether they realise it or not, they felt something. The goal of marketing is to evoke emotion, and if our content made them react, whether positively or negatively, it proves that our strategy is doing exactly what it’s meant to do, capture attention and create engagement.

So, what exactly are online trolls? Trolls are individuals who post inflammatory or upsetting comments on your posts or create fake or misleading online reviews, often to provoke a reaction or to harm your business. These people hide behind the anonymity of the internet, making it difficult to address their behaviour directly.

But why in the world would anyone want to do this? Often, trolling is motivated by a desire for attention, jealousy, to undermine competitors, or simply out of a need to stir drama.

For beauty and hair professionals and business owners alike, the effects of online bullying can be devastating. Negative comments on your social media posts can damage the trust and rapport you’ve worked so hard to build with your clients. Worse yet, false reviews on platforms like Google can tarnish your reputation and cause potential customers to hesitate before booking your services.

Handling Negative Reviews

A single fake review can significantly damage your reputation, especially if it’s negative and baseless. Since Google reviews are one of the most influential factors in how potential clients find and choose beauty professionals, it’s essential to address them head on.

Monitor Your Reviews Regularly

Keep an eye on your online presence by regularly checking your Google reviews. If you notice a pattern of fake reviews or harmful comments, you’ll need to take action quickly.

Respond Professionally

If you come across a fake or misleading review, the first step is to respond calmly and professionally. Express empathy for the individual’s concerns and offer to resolve the issue privately. This shows that you’re committed to customer satisfaction, even if the review is not based in truth. Let your loyal customers and followers become your best defence by showcasing positive engagement. Encourage positive comments, testimonials, and shares from happy clients. Creating an online community that supports your work is a powerful way to drown out the noise of negativity.

Report the Review

Google allows you to flag reviews that violate their policies (E.g.: reviews that are clearly fake, defamatory, or offensive).

To do this, go to the review, click on the three-dot menu, and select “Report Review.” Google will assess whether it violates their guidelines and may remove it if it does. You can also seek help from professionals. If you’re overwhelmed by the trolling or false reviews, consider working with a reputation management service or your lawyer. These experts can help you manage your online presence, address negative feedback, and even help get fake reviews removed.

Carly Knowles

So what about when you’re faced with online bullying??

Recognise the source: It’s Not About You!! When someone goes out of their way to criticise your content or business practices, it often says more about their own insecurities than your work. Jealousy and competition can drive people to act out in unkind ways. Instead of taking it personally, recognise that their words are coming from a place of their own struggle. Remind yourself why you started. Stay focused on your goals, your clients, and the positive impact your business creates.

To engage or not to engage?? Take Control Instead. It’s tempting to respond defensively, but engaging with trolls often gives them the attention they crave. Instead, take control by blocking and reporting fake accounts, deleting harmful comments, and tightening your page’s security settings. Your energy is better spent on those who support you. Use social media features like comment moderation filters or keyword blocks to proactively prevent negativity from showing up on your content.

Why it’s okay to block: In today’s digital landscape, your social media presence is an extension of your business, a space where you connect with your audience and reflect your brand’s values. Just as you carefully curate your physical environment, it’s crucial to curate your online space as well. Sometimes, that means setting boundaries by blocking individuals who don’t align with your vision. Blocking isn’t about avoiding criticism or being petty, it’s a proactive step to protect your business and mental well-being by removing negativity, whether from passive observers or active disruptors. Your social media platforms should be reserved for those who genuinely support your offerings and contribute to a positive, engaging community. Negative energy, even from those who linger without interacting or continuously criticise, can be draining. It distracts from your focus on nurturing authentic relationships and building a thriving business. Blocking is a form of self- care, a way to ensure that your digital space remains a reflection of the empowering, inclusive experience you want to offer. Ultimately, your social media is your space, and you have the right to choose who gets to be part of it. Setting boundaries, whether by blocking or removing negative influences, protects your brand and ensures that your energy stays focused on those who truly appreciate what you bring to the table.

Transform negativity into opportunity: A negative experience can actually fuel greater creativity and connection with your audience. Share your experience (without giving trolls more airtime) and focus on inspiring your followers with messages of empowerment, resilience, and authenticity. Post content that reinforces your values, such as celebrating client success stories, showcasing your team’s hard work, and emphasising the passion behind what you do.

Seek support and speak up: You’re not alone in facing online bullying. Many businesses, especially in the beauty and hair industry, have encountered similar experiences. Use these moments to connect with industry peers, support each other, and raise awareness about online professionalism and kindness. Set boundaries around what behaviour you will and won’t except when people visit your

business. Don’t be scared to promote what these boundaries are. While holding yourself to the highest standards of professionalism, it is ok to enforce mutual respect from your customers, which is the foundation of every great interaction. Kindness goes both ways, and demanding, rude or bullying behaviour has no place in any business. Consider collaborations with other local businesses to build a stronger, united front against negativity and foster a supportive industry culture.

Keep showing up and being YOU: Trolls thrive on discouraging others, but the best way to defeat them is to keep doing what you do best...running your business with passion and authenticity. Your audience follows you because they appreciate your unique approach, your expertise, and the value that you provide. Don’t hold back on content creation. Whether it’s educational, entertaining, or personal, keep showing up and serving your audience.

Turning negativity into a positive force: At Bella Pelle Body Clinic, we’ve used this experience to double down on our commitment to authenticity. We’re proud of the content we create, and it’s a reflection of our dedication to our clients and our community. If anything, this experience has reinforced that we must be doing something right, because success often attracts both admiration and envy. So, if you find yourself facing online bullying, remember this: Your success is yours to celebrate. Stay focused, stay positive, and don’t let anyone dim your sparkle.

The Power of Emotion in Marketing

Marketing is more than just selling a product. It’s about evoking emotions. Whether it’s excitement, trust, or fear of missing out, emotions drive purchasing decisions and shape how consumers perceive your brand. What matters most is sparking a reaction, positive or negative, because attention is currency in today’s market. Positive emotions like joy or inspiration foster deep connections and loyalty, while negative emotions, such as fear or frustration, can highlight a problem and position your brand as the solution.

The key is to turn those initial negative feelings into a positive outcome, with your brand at the centre. Ultimately, good marketing isn’t about pleasing everyone but resonating with the right audience. If people engage with your content, even through criticism or fake profiles, it means your brand is making an impact and that’s a win in my eyes. Online negativity is a reminder that success attracts both admiration and criticism, but staying true to your values ensures long-term relevance.

Stay consistent, stay visible, and most importantly, don’t let the noise of negativity distract from the impact of your messages. If anything, situations like this are a sign that we’re doing something right and we’ll continue to show up, inspire, and grow, regardless of the opinions of those who don’t understand our journey.

Beyond The Filter: Redefining Beauty Standards In A PostFilter World

By Keira Maloney

As a photographer, I’ve been working with Photoshop long before beauty filters became a thing. Back then, my editing enhanced an image without altering its truth. Over time, though, I’ve watched filters change not only how we edit but also how we see ourselves.

Filters promised to enhance beauty, but they’ve created unattainable standards. People have grown used to seeing smoothed skin, reshaped features, and perfected symmetry on social media. Now, I hear from photographers that some people arrive at photoshoots with expectations shaped by these filters, asking for edits that go beyond enhancement into transformation.

This moment, where major platforms are removing filters, isn’t just a turning point for me as a photographer. It’s an opportunity for the hair and beauty industry to lead a powerful shift. You are already transforming your clients in ways filters never could. The changes you create for people are real and tangible. They’re why your clients trust you to make them look and feel their best.

The Confidence Paradox and Ethical Editing

Filters promised to give us confidence, yet they took it away. By reshaping features and smoothing imperfections, filters taught us to see our unfiltered selves as less than. They’ve made people question whether they’re good enough without them.

I see this play out in my work often. Clients, conditioned by years of scrolling through filtered perfection, can often bring those expectations to the shoot. They ask for heavy editing, not because they aren’t beautiful, but because they believe beauty must look a certain way.

This has forced me to ask myself some uncomfortable questions:

- Am I creating images that celebrate someone’s individuality or erasing it?

- When I retouch, am I helping someone feel confident, or am I reinforcing unrealistic expectations?

- By over-editing, am I just replacing one filter with another?

These questions aren’t easy, but they’ve shaped how I work. My job isn’t to make someone look beautiful; it’s to show them that they already are.

For hair and beauty professionals, your role is even more profound. The work you do every day gives clients a level of confidence no filter could. When clients leave your chair or treatment room, they feel like the best version of themselves. They’re not just looking better, they’re standing taller, smiling brighter, and walking with renewed confidence.

Why Real Transformations Matter

Your clients don’t come to you for illusions. They come to you because they trust you to get real, tangible results that go far beyond what filters can achieve.

Think about what happens when a client spends time with you. Whether it’s a fresh mani, a or a glowing skin treatment, you aren’t just changing their appearance, you’re changing how they feel about themselves. That transformation can’t be replicated by digital tools. It’s felt in the way they carry themselves and connect with their own beauty.

With that said, your clients are also watching how you show up online. If you lean on filters in your own content, it sends a mixed message. By showing up authentically, you create a ripple effect. When clients see you celebrating real beauty, they feel empowered to do the same. You have the ability to help redefine beauty, not just in your salon or clinic, but in the way people see themselves every day.

Redefining Beauty Standards

This is more than a shift in technology. It’s a call to redefine what beauty looks and feels like, once again. Filters have shaped how we present ourselves online for years, but their removal opens the door to something far more meaningful: authenticity.

You have a powerful opportunity in this shift. Your clients already see you as the person who helps them look and feel beautiful. They trust you to build their confidence, remind them of their worth, and show them the best version of themselves. Now, you have the chance to extend that trust beyond the work you do in person and into the way you represent yourself and your craft online.

Imagine a world where the standard isn’t perfection but authenticity. Where clients celebrate their real, unfiltered beauty rather than striving for unattainable ideals. That world might start with you.

Ask yourself: How are you showing up? Are you still relying on the safety of filters, or are you ready to embrace the power of authenticity? Show your clients, and the world, that the most powerful glow-up of all starts with embracing who we are, no filters required.

Ps. You really are beautiful, just the way you are.

@the_salonphotographer

Community Is The New Black: Why Building A Loyal Audience Matters More Than Growing Followers!

By Kayla Zigic

What would you rather? Would you rather have 500 loyal, engaged followers who interact with your content and convert into clients or 10,000 passive followers who never engage, never comment, and never buy?

When it comes to social media, numbers have long been what everyone is chasing. We’ve grown to believe the higher the follower count, the more successful a business or influencer appears to be. But over the past few years, we’ve witnessed a shift that proves followers alone don’t pay the bills. Engagement, loyalty, and trust do. And at the heart of this shift? Community.

Followers vs. Community: No, They Are Not the Same Thing.

A big follower count is often mistaken for success, but the reality is that followers are passive, while a community is active.

One of the best examples of this distinction is the story of Instagram influencer Arii, who had 2.6 million followers but couldn’t sell 36 T-shirts when she launched her clothing line in 2019. The issue? A lack of real community. Let that sink in. There are 2.6 million followers, and only 36 items sold.

The problem was her audience was watching but not engaging, which led to the failure of her product launch. This is a harsh but valuable lesson: if people aren’t invested in you, your numbers mean nothing.

Why Community is the Future of Social Media

Social media is no longer about broadcasting to a crowd—it’s about fostering connections. The algorithm favours engagement, which comes from real relationships with your audience.

1. Trust Converts; Not Just Visibility People buy from those they trust. Community-building fosters this trust by creating a space where your audience feels seen, heard, valued, and connected to you beyond just a transactional level.

2. Word-of-Mouth Marketing is Powerful A strong community acts as your best marketing tool. When people feel part of something, they

naturally share it with others. This organic form of growth is far more valuable than vanity metrics.

3. Loyalty Beats Reach We’re seeing it everywhere: brands and businesses that focus on community enjoy higher retention rates and repeat customers, making them far more profitable in the long term.

How to Build a Community That Thrives

If you’re ready to shift your focus from followers to community, here are some actionable steps:

1. Engage in Conversations, Not Just Posts Stop talking at your audience and start talking to them. Ask questions, respond to comments, and make them feel they matter (because they DO!)

2. Ask for engagement

Do you want people to share their thoughts? Ask them. Do you want them to give you advice? Ask them. Using the correct call to actions to encourage engagement works far better than using the “book now link in bio” on every post.

3. Show Up Authentically

People connect with people, not faceless brands. Share your wins, your struggles, and your personality. Authenticity is what turns followers into true fans. The best part? It doesn’t always have to be about work. My best performing and engaging story was asking my audience for their solutions to migraines. People want to help and give their advice, thoughts, and opinions.

4. Encourage User-Generated Content

Let your community feel like they are part of something bigger. Please encourage them to

share their experiences with your brand and feature them on your account. This not only builds connection but also deepens trust.

5. Give More Than You Sell

Value-based content—educational, entertaining, or inspiring—keeps people engaged. If every post is a sales pitch, you’re building an audience, not a community. Repeat after me, “I will only promote 20% of the time.”

Final Thought: Now is the time to shift our perspective on social media. People don’t just want to follow a brand; they want to feel like they belong to something. The most successful businesses and influencers aren’t just selling products or services but leading a movement of community.

Your homework after reading this article. Go and check your follower count, ask yourself: Am I building an audience or a community? Because in 2025 and beyond, the community is the new black.

Kayla xx @socialsforsalons

Why Prompts Matter when using AI for your Content.

By Rachel Medlock

Lately, I’ve been seeing more salon, spa, and clinic owners jumping on the AI train, particularly ChatGPT, for their marketing, and hey, I get it. It’s fast, shiny, and a dream tool for small businesses. But here’s the catch: everyone’s starting to sound… well, the same. It’s polished, sure, but also kinda predictable.

Look, I’m a big fan of AI making life easier, but it’s only as good as what you feed it. That’s why prompts matter. They separate the cookie-cutter content from content that actually feels like you.

AI Isn’t a Mind Reader

Think of ChatGPT as a super-smart assistant. Fast, efficient, and able to multitask better than most of us, but it still needs a little direction. No direction? You’ll get the copywriting equivalent of a 3pm slump. Let’s take a look at an example:

Basic Prompt:

“Write a social media post about pigmentation treatments for my salon.”

Result: A bland post that is as exciting as watching paint dry. It’s like rocket ship emojis replaced any resemblance of personality.

Better Prompt:

“You’re an experienced social media marketer specialising in professional skin treatments. Write me an Instagram caption for {{Business Name}} about our {{Technology/Treatment Name}} pigmentation treatment. Our target audience is {{target demographic}}, their pain points are {{pain points}}, and our point of difference is {{selling point}}. Highlight that it’s {{key treatment benefits}}. Keep the tone {{tone of voice requirements}}, and no over-the-top marketing fluff.”

Result: An educational and engaging post that actually feels tailored to your clients (and your business).

The key difference? The prompt. When you give ChatGPT clear instructions, you tell it exactly how to think and communicate like your brand. You’re giving it the playbook instead of letting it guess what your brand sounds like.

It’s Your Co-Pilot, Not the Captain AI tools are incredible, but they’re not here to replace the human side of your beauty business. Sure, it can help you draft content quickly and handle repetitive tasks, but it still needs your input to truly align with your brand. If you’re after a hands-off experience where the copy writes itself, hire a copywriter.

The truth is, no matter how fast technology evolves, it will always lack something essential: a beating heart. A heart that understands empathy, nuance, and the hands-on experience in our industry. That’s where you, and people like me, come in. We bring the human touch, the creativity, and the insight that AI just can’t replicate.

Think of AI tools as just that - tools. Just like an at-home LED device can’t replace the professional treatments you book in between, AI tools can’t replace the human creativity and expertise that help your business grow. Harness these tools to save time and streamline your process, but don’t forget: the magic comes from the people behind the brand.

The Bottom Line

AI isn’t a magic wand. It’s a tool. And just like any other tool, it’s only as good as the person wielding it. The beauty industry thrives on personal connections, authenticity, and creativity. So, don’t settle for content that sounds like it came from a generic template.

Master your prompts, and you’ll unlock the power of AI - saving you time and energy, while still sounding like the real you. After all, your clients want to connect with your expertise, your story, and your why.

If you’re ready to get the most out of AI, my new Salon Scribe AI tools can help you craft smarter prompts, refine your brand’s voice, and turn AI into a real asset. Because when AI, your beating heart and my expertise work together? That’s when the real magic happens.

@rachelmedlockcopywriting

Elevate In 2025: Mindset Strategies for Personal and Professional Growth

By Angeli Marie Shaw

Woo hoo! We made it! Another year has come to a close and here we are in the new year, ready to tackle whatever comes our way! Whilst some of us face the new year with confidence and an attitude of ‘I’ve got this’, there are no doubt some, if not many, that err on the side of caution, dipping our big toe in the water rather than diving straight in, and that’s ok as we’re all a result of our conditioning and experiences. But in order to get comfortable, we first need to get uncomfortable and dig deep into the things we avoid, the reoccurring problems, the lessons that constantly show up in front of us, but we are yet to learn, and those choices, decisions and issues that just thinking about them, give us the ick.

So, to guide you along the way in 2025, here are my top 5 strategies to get you thinking, get you moving and get you taking action so you can elevate!

1. Embrace Lifelong Learning: The lessons will always come, and we never stop learning, so when you’re faced with a challenge, a difficult decision or you simply don’t know, learn! One thing our industry has is a very diverse community so ask questions, seek help and advice and turn to those around you that inspire and motivate you. Lifelong learning will help you grow personally and professionally by providing opportunities to learn new skills and gain different perspectives.

2. Cultivate Resilience: You don’t just ‘be’ resilient, you nurture it, water it and help it grow and strengthen. This doesn’t just mean ‘shit happens’ and you’ll be better for it, but it’s a focus on what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. Working on your resilience nurtures the ability to adapt to challenges, trauma and adversity and is something that can be continuously strengthened across your lifetime.

3. Foster Adaptability: We’ve all had plenty of experience when it comes to this, especially over the last 4 years so keep up the work and focus on what makes you grow. Set learning goals to learn new skills and broaden your expertise. Seek and be open to feedback as constructive criticism is a valuable tool for growth. Practice flexibility by stepping out of your comfort zone regularly and remain open to new ways of doing things. And remember to remain optimistic. This will help you see opportunities in challenges and maintain a hopeful but realistic outlook on the future.

4. Encourage Curiosity: There’s no better time to get curious than now! And one benefit of living in a world of technology is that our ability to research, connect and source information is literally at our fingertips. It’s one thing to watch what others are doing but allow that curiosity to drive you to take things further and not just mindlessly scroll. Take action by sharing experiences, asking questions and exploring new topics, places and people. This will assist you in learning, problem solving, improving your skillset, and ultimately, develop a positive outlook.

5. Develop Emotional Intelligence: This is the ability to manage both your own emotions and understand the emotions of people around you. There are 5 key elements to emotional intelligence: self-awareness, empathy, self-regulation, social skills and motivation and working on all of these continuously will help you build on this ability. In fact, many believe that your level of emotional intelligence is what makes the difference between a good and exceptional leader!

We’ve all been blessed to see in another year, so take with you what you experienced in 2024 to learn, develop and grow. Use that growth to springboard into success! Take each step at your own pace, pause when you need to, dust yourself off when things get tough and remember, you CAN do this!

Wishing you all growth, success and achievement in 2025 and beyond!

As always, I believe in you!

Love & Bliss, Angeli xxoo

Angeli is a former salon owner and Holistic Empowerment Coach, Mindset Mentor/Trainer and founder of The Bliss Coach. To work with me 1:1, organise group training or book me as a speaker in 2025, get in touch by visiting: www.theblisscoach.com.au or follow me on my socials @theblisscoach to connect and find out more.

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