Mocha Beauty Year 18 Issue 2

EDUCATION

THE MEDIA VOICE FOR INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS

THE 2025 ABIA CATEGORIES

INDIVIDUAL CATEGORIES

Junior Therapist of the Year

Beauty Therapist of the Year

Dermal Therapist of the Year

Business Director/Owner of the Year

Best Cosmetic Tattooist

Sole Operator of the Year (ABN Registered)

EDUCATOR CATEGORIES

Best Industry Educator Individual

Best Industry Educator Organisation

Best Industry Educator of the Year Product/Equipment Company

NEW!! Best Business Coach of the Year

SPECIALIST CATEGORIES

Best Marketing Award

Best Customer Care Award

Salon/Spa/Clinic Team of the Year

Best Salon/Spa/Clinic Training Award

Best Business Performance of the Year (non-salon)

SALON CATEGORIES

Best Eco Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

Best Salon/Spa/Clinic Design

Best Newcomer Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

MAKE UP CATEGORIES

Bridal/Formal Make Up Artist of the Year

Editorial/Session Make Up Artist of the Year

STATE CATEGORIES

4 Treatment rooms or Less & 5 Treatments rooms or more

NSW/ACT Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

NSW/ACT Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

VIC /TAS/SA Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

VIC /TAS/SA Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

WA/NT Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

WA/NT Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

QLD Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

QLD Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

(Australian winner is determined from the state winners and announced on the night)

NZ MAJOR CATEGORY

4 Treatment rooms or Less & 5 Treatments rooms or more

NZ Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

NZ Beauty Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year

NOMINATED CATEGORIES

Hall of Fame

Mocha Angels Humanitarian Award

BEAUTY SQUAD

Team of 4

VOTED CATEGORY

State and National Wholesaler of the Year

the Room By Elle Wilson 51 Creating Consultations that are Unique to you, your business and your clients By James Vivian

52 Stand uut from the rest with A Touch of Luxury By Will Fennell MAKE UP 54-57 Sensory, Make Up, The Art By Louise May 58 Suzi Dent: A Life of Artistry, Impact & Evolution By Louise May

60 Beyond Bridal: The Many Faces of a Makeup Career By Brooke Clarke

62 Selling Without The Ick! By Carly Knowles

64 Why Niching is Non-Negotiable for Educators, Coaches and Creators By Tamara Reid

66 Is ADHD The New Black?! By Jay Chapman

67 Breaking New Ground! Shortcuts Launches GameChanging Software for Independent Hair and Beauty Professionals.

68 Team Leadership Excellence: Building HighPerforming Teams By Elle Huempel

69 Navigating The Fitout Process: Steps from Planning to Execution By Kelly Cunningham MARKETING

70 How to actually use Instagram Insights to Grow your Salon’s Social Media By Kayla Zigic

71 Why your Tone Of Voice isn’t just how you sound, It’s How You Make People Feel By Rachel Medlock

72 Maintaining your you-ness in a Robot World By Kiera Maloney

74 Are You in Alignment with your Values By Angeli Marie Shaw

Serve and Protect has become our #1 selling product. Why? Because we believe in keeping skincare light-weight & breathable.

SERVE AND PROTECT

Make hay while the sun shines with SPF on of course! by Derma Energy

A water-based sun protection, Serve and Protect is light and non-greasy on the skin, with a matte, shine-free finish. A luxurious velvety moisturiser, Serve and Protect offers complete broad-spectrum, SPF50+ protection against damaging and ageing UVA and UVB rays.

Would you like to try it? We'd love to hear from you.

EDITOR’S

PUBLISHER

Linda Woodhead linda@mochagroup.com.au

GENERAL MANAGER

Jarred Stedman jarred@mochagroup.com.au

EDITOR

Louise May louise@mochagroup.com.au

ADVERTISING MANAGER

Nina Barbara nina@mochagroup.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Kellie Woodhead kellie@mochagroup.com.au

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Brittany Murton brittany@mochagroup.com.au

ADMINISTRATION

Jess Richmond jess@mochagroup.com.au

CONTRIBUTORS

Louise May

Jarred Stedman

Karen Geiszler

Katherine McCann

Lia Trebilcock

Robyn McAlpine

Gay Wardle

Elle Wilson

James Vivian

Will Fennell

Brooke Clarke

Carly Knowles

Tamara Reid

Jay Chapman

Elle Huempel

Kelly Cunningham

Kayla Zigic

Rachel Medlock

Kiera Maloney

Angeli Marie Shaw

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 mochahair, mochabeauty & mochabarber

Mocha Beauty is published six times a year by mocha publishing 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.

It’s been a big couple of months since our last issue. We recently had Mocha Elite on the Gold Coast at The Langham Hotel, and I’m still buzzing from the energy from the few days spent at the event. There’s something powerful about being surrounded by like-minded business owners who are all working hard, evolving, and showing up for more. It reminded me how important it is to check in with where you’re at, and where you’re heading.

Momentum in business and in life doesn’t just happen. It’s created. And often, it asks us to step into a new version of ourselves. One that’s a little braver, more focused, and willing to do things differently.

Change requires change.

If you’ve felt stuck or like you’ve been coasting, this is your chance to reset. Take a breath. Get clear. Not just on your goals, but on whether your business still reflects who you are and how you want to show up. Are you still delivering the kind of experience you’re proud of? Are your values still front and centre, or have they been buried under the weight of the day to day?

This is the perfect time of year to reassess... and yes, that includes your numbers. With superannuation increasing to 12% from July and wages set to rise again, it’s more important than ever to keep your finger on the pulse. Your pricing, margins, and cash flow can’t be left to chance. You need to know where you stand and make decisions with clarity, not just hope.

If you’re reviewing your pricing (and you probably should be), take a look at the whole picture. Are you also reviewing your standards? Because when prices rise but the client experience stays the same, something feels off. Clients notice. And the value exchange matters.

But here’s the good news, you don’t need to spend more to offer more. A thoughtful moment. A calm, welcoming space. A team that genuinely cares. It’s the energy and consistency that make the difference.

If you have a team, now is also a great time to check in with them. What’s the culture like? Are expectations clear? Are they feeling supported? A strong culture doesn’t come from staff meetings—it’s built in the everyday moments. In how you lead, how you listen, and how you show up.

This next quarter is about taking back control. Getting focused. Raising the bar.

We’ve got some exciting things coming up, too. Beauty Expo returns to Sydney on August 16–17, and as always, it’s a brilliant weekend of inspiration, education, and connection. And then of course, there’s the night of all nights, the ABIA Gala event! The night we all look forward to, when we celebrate the people and businesses who are doing amazing things across the industry.

Entries for the 2025 ABIA’s and Beauty Squad are now open and close on Wednesday 26th June. Finalists will be announced LIVE on the Mocha Beauty Facebook page on Monday 23rd June.

If you’ve thinking about entering the 2025 ABIA Awards or Beauty Squad, and have been sitting on the fence with it, I really encourage you to go for it. It’s not just about the win - the process of entering itself is such a great opportunity to reflect on your business. It gets you thinking about what you’ve built, where you’re at, and what might need adjusting. It is a fabulous business/selfaudit.

Until next time,

Louise May, Editor – Mocha Beauty / Editor in Chief – Mocha Group louise@mochagroup.com.au www.mochagroup.com.au @louise_mochagroup @mochabeautymedia

Welcome to the 2nd issue of Mocha Beauty for 2025.

THE WORLD’S MOST INNOVATIVE STEP 3 FOR LASH LIFT

A key element about the Elleeplex ReGEN Next Gen is that while so many brands have a “step three” to their services, our step three (Elleeplex ReGEN Next Gen) can be combined into our step two or into our tinting service (because who doesn’t love options right?!). This unique application method offers salons valuable time-saving methods without compromising the clients results, in fact the results are REMARKABLE

DERMATOLOGICALLY TESTED CLINICALLY PROVEN RESULTS

POWERBOND TECHNOLOGY: The unique addition of a proprietary blend containing BIS-4 PCA Dimethicone into our ReGEN Next Gen allows “Powerbond technology” within the eyelash or eyebrow and helps to work with molecules restoring the disulphide bonds and hydrogen bonding of the hair during and after chemical services.

FORMULATION: ReGEN continues to contain our brilliant formulation of vitamins, plant extracts, Panthenol and Biotin, all with lash and brow hair health at the forefront of the product’s development.

CLINICAL TRIALS have showcased that hair is strengthened by 21% and elasticity by 18% after a chemical treatment.

Lashestreatedwith ElleeplexProfusion+ReGen Visibleimprovementincondition afterchemicalprocess

Lashestreatedwithan alternativelashliftsystem

10 Minutes with Demi Louise Hooper-Tink

2024

ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year

By Louise May

Taking out one of the most prestigious honours in the Australian beauty industry, the title of 2024

ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year, is no small feat—and for this dedicated skin specialist, it marks a defining moment in a career built on passion, purpose, and genuine care.

With over 10 years in the industry, she’s gone from a spontaneous high school course enrolment to becoming a senior leader at Skintifix, known for her results-driven approach, her deep focus on education, and the strong, lasting connections she builds with clients.

In this chat with Louise May, Editor of Mocha Beauty, Demi reflects on the journey so far, shares her thoughts on evolving with the industry, and gives us a glimpse into what fuels her both in and out of the treatment room.

Congratulations on winning 2024 ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year! How does it feel to receive this recognition?

Thank you! Being named the 2024 ABIA Beauty Therapist of the Year was a massive shock for me, I honestly wasn’t expecting it! I feel so honoured to have received this award and it’s definitely been a huge career highlight for me.

It’s made me even more passionate about being a part of the industry and the work that I’m doing. 10 years ago, I could have never imagined that I would win an award as big as this, so it has definitely inspired and motivated me to push my skills even further.

You’ve been in the industry for 10 years. Tell us about your journey, what initially sparked your passion for skin health and beauty therapy?

I actually ended up in this industry purely by accident! I signed up for a cert 3 in beauty during high school with a friend, and it turned out I really enjoyed it and was actually pretty good at it. It was when I was studying my Diploma that I found my love for skin health. I remember when we were learning about the integumentary system and I thought “this is what I want to do, I want to specialise in skin”. I’ve worked in a couple of different clinics, mainly doing all

the standard beauty treatments to begin with, then 6 years ago I got a job at a clinic that was a little more skin focused and fell in love with the skin all over again! During COVID that clinic unfortunately closed down, which led me to my current job at Skintifix. I’ve now been here for 5 years and solely work on skin health and laser hair removal, which I absolutely love. I’ve been able to expand on my skills and knowledge so much which has been amazing.

Education is a big focus for you. How do you ensure your clients feel empowered and informed about their skin?

Almost all of my clients start their skin journey with an Advanced Skin Analysis, where I teach them the basics of how the skin works, what impacts our skin and the things we can do to have better skin health. I honestly believe that when clients know the why and how, it makes everything easier for the both of us! Education is a huge part of what I do, and in an industry that is constantly evolving it’s so important for me to keep up to date with the latest fads and trends as I know my clients are going to ask about them!

With the rising cost of living, how have you adapted your approach to help clients maintain their skin health on a budget?

This is something that I’m sure everyone in the industry is feeling, and definitely something we’ve had to tackle! I’ve taken the approach of “less is more”. So, for example if I think my client would really benefit from a custom serum, but that extra product isn’t really in their budget, I’ll opt for a custom moisturiser. That way they’re getting 2 in 1 and we’re not having to compromise too much! If clients can only afford minimal products, I’m always thinking “what are the main things their skin NEEDS” and focusing more on that. I’ve also noticed some clients unable to come into the clinic as often, so really making sure their home care routine is solid is key.

You’ve taken on more of a leadership role at Skintifix. What has that experience been like for you?

I have! I’ve found it a really empowering experience. I think it has not only helped strengthen my own skills and confidence but has allowed me to inspire and help guide the therapists around me. I’m looking forward to progressing in this role and seeing where it takes me!

What’s one of the most rewarding aspects of being a senior skin therapist?

I think for me; it’s definitely the client connection and being able to make a noticeable difference in people’s lives. So many clients are feeling self-conscious of their skin when they first come in, and seeing their confidence shine through as their skin changes is everything to me.

I find client connection so important and rewarding, there’s something really special about being there for all your clients’ big moments!

Continuous learning is clearly important to you. Are there any recent trainings or insights that have particularly excited you?

I’ve actually recently been really interested in the more internal side of skin health and how our diet and lifestyle impact our skin. I’ve just started a course on the basics of nutrition and when I finish that I’d love to do some of Chiza Westcarr’s courses through the Nutrition & Skin Care Academy!

I’m also loving all of the talk about menopause at the moment and learning the impacts that hormone changes have not only in our skin, but our life in general!

What advice would you give to aspiring beauty therapists looking to make an impact in the industry?

Surround yourself with people who believe in you and push you out of your comfort zone, it’s the best way to grow and progress!

Anything exciting on the agenda over the next 12 months?

I’m currently working on an application for this year’s ABIA awards which I’m really excited about. Otherwise, I’m just focussed on keeping consistent with my work and education!

I’ve also got a few little trips away with my wife booked this year which I’m looking forward to.

SOME QUICK FUN ONES:

Favourite Drink? My go to coffee order is an iced oat latte, an essential for the big clinic days!

Favourite Food? Italian for sure. Give me all the bread and pastas! You can only use three skincare products for the rest of your life, what would they be? Ooooh, tricky one! I’d have to say my Dermaviduals cleanser and moisturiser, and a good SPF!

Worst TikTok skincare trend you have come across? I’ve seen a lot, but I have to say beef tallow takes the cake. I’m sorry, but beef fat belongs in the fry pan, not on our faces!

@skintifix

The Aesthetic Business Masters 2025: Empowering

Aesthetic Clinics Across Australia

With the aesthetic industry continuing to evolve at a rapid pace, 2025 is bringing fresh opportunities and new challenges, for clinic owners and professionals across Australia. Designed with this in mind, The Aesthetic Business Masters is a highly anticipated national event series making its debut in Melbourne (May 16), Sydney (May 23) and Perth (September 22)

Created specifically for the medical aesthetics sector, this business-focused event offers a full-day program of actionable education, connection, and strategy, delivered by a handpicked lineup of industry experts and thought leaders. From navigating compliance and building high-performing teams to exploring innovative marketing, membership models, and digital growth, attendees can expect relevant, realworld insights designed to support sustainable business success.

With a strong focus on practical outcomes, empowering education, and professional development, The Aesthetic Business Masters is a timely resource for clinic owners, managers, and aspiring leaders seeking to refine their operations and elevate their business in 2025 and beyond.

What to Expect

Unlike traditional clinical conferences, The Aesthetic Business Masters takes a dedicated business lens, focusing not on procedures, but on what it takes to run a thriving, future-proofed clinic in today’s evolving marketplace. Every element of the day is designed to support those navigating the unique challenges of the aesthetics space, whether that’s team leadership, digital visibility, profitability, or regulatory confidence. Across all three cities, attendees will have access to a full-day program that includes keynote presentations, expert panels, VIP networking opportunities, and a curated selection of exhibitors and sponsors relevant to the medical aesthetics field. Content is tailored to support decision-makers—from solo operators and practitioner-led businesses to multi-location clinic managers and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Each city-specific program is hosted by renowned MC Grazina Fechner, known for her dynamic energy and deep understanding of the industry. Grazina brings warmth, professionalism, and a touch of humour to the stage, ensuring a seamless and engaging experience for attendees.

Why This Event Is Timely

With increasing demand for aesthetic services comes increasing responsibility... clinics must now balance high client expectations, tighter compliance frameworks, staffing complexities, and rapid digital shifts. For many, the pressure of running a business can feel overwhelming. This is where The Aesthetic Business Masters stands apart. The event offers a space for real conversations, practical takeaways, and up-todate advice from those who not only understand the landscape, but actively shape it. From marketing and memberships to legal frameworks, branding, HR, and client care... the content is broad, but highly relevant. The aim? To empower attendees to make confident decisions, implement efficient systems, and build businesses that thrive sustainably.

A Closer Look at the Speaker Line-Up

One of the biggest drawcards of The Aesthetic Business Masters is its impressive speaker roster, featuring some of the most respected names in aesthetics, business, skin health, digital strategy, and leadership. Each brings unique insight, lived experience, and a passion for helping others succeed.

Here’s a snapshot of who’s speaking and where:

Alex Pike – Aesthetic Influencer & Entrepreneur

PR Panel – Melbourne Alex focuses on brand visibility, marketing strategy, and how to grow with impact in a crowded market.

Bronwyn Granata – CoFounder, Aesthetic MET

All cities

A global educator and leader in aesthetic complication management, Bronwyn joins the Compliance Panel to speak on patient safety, professional support, and best practice in adverse event response.

Courtney Wilder – Intuitive Coach & Business Astrologist

VIP Breakfast Host –Melbourne and Perth

Courtney’s sessions offer soulful yet practical guidance to align with your vision, trust your intuition, and create business success in flow—not force.

Dr Anh Nguyen – Plastic Surgeon & Clinic Owner

Perth only

An award-winning surgeon and entrepreneur, Dr Anh brings unique insight into running a successful aesthetic practice while raising standards in care and leadership.

Gay Wardle – Founder, Skin Success Community

All cities

With a background in communication and training, Gay’s keynote is high-energy and focused on mastering consultations to drive growth through better planning, connection, and messaging.

Hanya Oversby – Strategic Business Consultant

Melbourne only

With over 1,000 clients across health and aesthetics, Hanya shares proven frameworks for business growth, leadership, and practice development.

Iola Ciavarra – Founder, REVEAL Skincare

All cities

In “Retail Speak,” Iola shifts mindsets and strategies around retail. Learn how to sell with intention, improve client results, and elevate your bottom line.

Isabella Loneragan – Skin

Expert & Clinic Owner

All cities

With over two decades of skin experience, Isabella’s session is all about working smarter, not harder. She’ll show how advanced facial massage can boost revenue, deepen client results, and create sustainable profit without burning out.

Jacinta King – Director of Nursing, Juv’ae

Compliance Panel – All cities

Combining clinical nursing, business ownership, and project leadership, Jacinta brings structure, strategy, and compliance know-how to the forefront. She’s a voice of authority and calm in a complex space.

Jade Spehr - Aesthetics & Beauty Business Coach

Melbourne and Sydney

Jade Spehr as she uncovers the hidden money sitting inside your business and shares practical strategies to unlock it. From refining consultations to smarter marketing, Jade’s session is packed with actionable insights to boost revenue and drive long-term growth.

Kris Abbey – Wellness Media & Awards Founder

All cities

From publishing to wellness travel and spa education, Kris brings a global view of health business, branding, and consumer engagement.

Kym Cowper – Commercial Partnerships, SPA+CLINIC

PR Panel – All cities

Kym shares how clinics can work with media, maximise brand partnerships, and position themselves effectively in an ever-changing marketplace.

Linda Woodhead - Founder, Mocha Group

PR Panel, Sydney

With over 40 years experience in both consumer and trade media, owner of mocha group and the Australian Beauty Industry Awrds, Linda is seen as a trailblazer and market leader in her field

Lizzy Boots – HR & Workplace Consultant

Sydney only

With over 20 years in HR, Lizzy will tackle compliance, team management, recruitment, and leadership. Her advice is straightforward, practical, and grounded in results.

Neil Osborne – Sales Educator, Spendsuasion®

Melbourne and Sydney

Neil’s session is all about ethical selling, rebooking, and cross-selling without pressure. Attendees will walk away with words, scripts, and a whole new confidence.

Nicole Montgomery – Event Founder & PR Panel Host

PR Panel – All cities

Nicole brings years of industry expertise and business strategy to the panel. Her guidance is clear, current, and rooted in empowering practitioners to lead with clarity and compliance.

Nicki Belle –Cosmetic Medicine

Entrepreneur

Sydney only

Nicki brings two decades of experience in non-surgical aesthetics and clinic ownership. Her session on integrating wellbeing and client journey is a must. Her decades of experience and proven frameworks for client engagement help clinics improve retention, trust, and profit.

Pia Kynoch – Holistic Educator

Sydney only

Pia Kynoch, The Spiritual Naturopath, as she explores how integrating wellness and holistic care into your clinic can deepen client trust, elevate results, and create sustainable success. Her unique approach blends science, soul, and strategy to help aesthetic businesses thrive from the inside out.

Robin Curran – Nurse Practitioner & Educator

Compliance Expert – All cities

Robin’s role on the panel focuses on regulation, patient care, and industry standards— helping clinics stay safe, confident, and compliant.

Saf Chowdhury – Digital Strategist, Online Marketing Guru

Melbourne and Sydney

In a fast-moving digital world, Saf breaks down what’s coming next for SEO and online marketing. Expect actionable insights on AI-driven search, algorithm changes, and hacks that give your business the edge.

Simone Wyndham – PR & Brand Strategist

PR Panel – Sydney only Simone will share how to create ethical, high-impact PR campaigns that build credibility and visibility—without crossing compliance lines.

Tara Shaw – Founder, Aesthetic CEO Academy

All cities

Memberships are no longer just “nice to have.” Tara shows how to build scalable, profitable membership models that deliver loyalty, consistent revenue, and business ease.

Telisa Larken – The Injectables Queen

Sydney only

Nurse, mentor, and founder of a booked-out clinic, Telisa shares her journey of business growth, brand-building, and client retention. She’ll explore how she’s maintained momentum during changing economic conditions—and how others can too.

Vanessa McDonald –Founder & Educator

All cities

Founder of Salon Marketing Solutions, as she shares proven marketing strategies tailored specifically for aesthetic clinics. With decades of experience in the beauty industry, Vanessa’s session will unlock the secrets to building a standout brand that consistently attracts and retains your ideal clients.

A New Chapter in Clinic Leadership

The Aesthetic Business Masters is designed to deliver practical strategies, expert insights, and actionable tools that clinic professionals can implement immediately From the solo nurse navigating compliance, to the clinic director building a scalable brand, this event offers practical guidance, connection, and clarity. If 2025 is the year you want to stabilise, scale, or shift your direction, this event series offers a rare opportunity to access the right minds, tools, and momentum to make it happen.

Nicole Montgomery

My Skin Chemistry Skincare

My Skin Chemistry is a scientifically developed skincare solution that is exclusively powered by HYLACALM Technology; a patented hyaluronic acid mixture featuring proprietary Sonicated Hyaluronic Acid.

My Skin Chemistry elevates professional skincare, harnessing the full potential of hyaluronic acid through its proprietary HYLACALM Technology.

Hyaluronic acid is at the heart of the My Skin Chemistry brand. Hyaluronic acid has long been heralded as the humectant of choice for its staggering ability to hold up to 1000 times its weight in water. However, not all hyaluronic acid formulations are created equally.

Since 2015, My Skin Chemistry has invested years of research and development, to improve the mechanism of hyaluronic acid to go beyond hydration and address inflammation in the skin. In 2020 this pursuit was finally realised, and a new patented hyaluronic acid mixture was born.

HYLACALM is a unique, patented formulation that transforms the look and feel of the skin in ways that traditional hyaluronic acid can’t.

HYLACALM technology is present in all My Skin Chemistry formulations to help soothe and support irritated skin immediately and has been scientifically proven to reduce signs of inflammation and boost bioactivity in the skin.

Beauty Method is a concise range of clinical homecare products from My Skin Chemistry, each containing HYLACALM technology. This cosmeceutical line combines advanced compounds and innovative ingredients, including PDRN (polydeoxyribonucleotides), biomimicking peptides and growth factors, biomimetic ceramides, and stabilised vitamins, in efficacious concentrations to improve the look and feel of skin.

The minimalist, high performance formulations are delivered in luxurious and soothing textures and are suitable for sensitive, post-treatment skin to enhance and intensify results at home.

The carefully curated range of eight products are designed to work synergistically to create a customised experience suitable for most skin types and concerns. Beauty Method is offered at an approachable price point and is ideal for clinics and salons looking for a universal line of professional-led homecare products without the financial burden and maintenance of stock that comes with larger homecare brands. www.monesthetica.com.au

@myskinchemistry

Introducing the Australasian Society of Cosmetic and Procedural - Dermatologists (ASCPD)

As the ASCD solidifies its role as the peak body in the areas of cosmetic aspects of dermatology and skin health, it has chosen to evolve its name to better reflect the breadth of work undertaken by its members. In what is an exciting development, going forward, it will be known as the Australasian Society of Cosmetic and Procedural Dermatologists (ASCPD).

ASCPD Chair, Professor Greg Goodman said this new identity marks the next chapter in its history, with the addition of the word procedural reinforcing a commitment to clinical excellence, patient safety, and evidence-based education.

“The term ‘cosmetic’ alone doesn’t fully represent what we do,” he explains. “Especially when cosmetic techniques like botulinum toxin and fillers are used for medical treatments such as scarring, skin diseases, pain syndromes and hyperhidrosis and lasers used for a myriad of medical indications.” He says the name change, set to come into effect at the 2025 ASCD Symposium, will also support the ASCPD’s position within the wider medical and surgical community, showing the depth of skill involved in procedural dermatology.

What Is Procedural Dermatology?

While cosmetic dermatology is often associated with non-invasive treatments, their work extends much further and includes:

- Diagnosing and treating dermatological conditions that have both aesthetic and functional impacts

- Advanced laser and energy-based treatments for skin resurfacing, pigmentation, and vascular conditions

- Non-surgical treatment of skin cancers and sun damage

- Managing acne scarring, haemangiomas, keloids, and other skin concerns

- Using injectables like botulinum toxin and fillers not just for cosmetic purposes, but also for many medical treatments.

Continuing their Commitment to Leadership, Innovation, and Research For the ASCPD, this shift isn’t just about a name- it’s about better representing what they stand for.

“Our focus on leadership, innovation, research, and education remains at the core of what we do, and this will be front and centre at our March conference and beyond,” says Professor Goodman.

The ASCPD will continue working with TPHE and Modern Currency to complete the new brand roll-out across their website, journal and communications over the coming months. www.ascpd.org.au

RefectoCil Tints- There’s something for everyone!

Get to know the Oxidative and Intense Brow(n)s ranges! Discover the art of perfect brows and lashes with RefectoCil, the global leader in professional eyelash and eyebrow tints and accessory products. The versatile range empowers professionals to colour with confidence and fully personalise their clients’ look. With RefectoCil, you’re not just enhancing beauty, you’re crafting a unique style statement for every individual. Here’s why RefectoCil Oxidative tints have been the beauty industry favourite for decades:

Colour Range: There is great diversity in the RefectoCil colour palette that suits all skin types including six core colours, two creative colours, as well as the amazing Blonde Brow bleach. All eight shades can be blended together to create warmer or cooler tones, deeper and more dramatic darker shades and brand-new colours altogether!

Durability: RefectoCil’s long-lasting formula ensures clients enjoy their results for weeks, even for clients with busy and demanding lifestyles. Professional-Grade Quality: In Australia, beauty professionals need products they can trust to deliver safe, consistent and outstanding results. For almost 100 years (yes, 100 years!) RefectoCil has perfected the art of colour and is the gold standard with its reputation for quality, safety and consistent results.

Software forsalonevery owner

No matter where you are in your journey

Safe, Gentle Formula: RefectoCil products are PPD free and are extremely well tolerated when correctly used around the delicate eye area, thus minimising the risk of irritation. If RefectoCil oxidative tints have been your Holy Grail for lashes & brows since your beauty education days, but your client is wanting more intense brow definition or reshaping, look no further than the RefectoCil IntenseBrow[n]s professional dye system!

This truly unique and innovative product range not only tints brows and lashes for up to six weeks, but can also be used to achieve a safe, semipermanent skin stain and is a great alternative for clients who cannot tolerate an oxidative tint. Core features include:

• Certified Vegan and cruelty free

• Patented lash and brow tinting system based on plant ingredients

• Suitable for allergy prone and sensitive skins

• For professional use only

• Comes in four smudge and waterproof customisable shades of brown.

RefectoCil offers an exceptional palette of colours across both the Oxidative Tint range and Intense Brow(n)s category, allowing you to use your colour blending and creative mixing skills to achieve extraordinary, customised results for all your clients. www.refectocil.com.au @refectocilaustralia

YZ Instant Collagen Lifting Serum – Your Secret to Radiant, Firm Skin

Say goodbye to tired, fatigued skin and hello to instant radiance with YZ Instant Collagen Lifting Serum. Designed to deliver a visibly youthful, lifted appearance that lasts up to 6 hours, this innovative formula is your go-to solution for special occasions or whenever your skin needs a quick, revitalizing boost.

Powered by Hydrolysed Collagen, a key protein essential for maintaining skin elasticity, tone, and texture, this advanced serum deeply hydrates, nourishes, and protects. The result? Instantly firmer, smoother, and glowing skin—perfect for making a lasting impression.

For professional results, YZ Instant Collagen Lift Serum is also recommended for Infusion Facial Lift Treatments using new to the world ZHAV Dynamic Lift™ + Moisture Testing. This advanced technique ensures deep penetration of active ingredients, delivering exceptional results with a low cost per treatment.

Embrace the confidence of firm, luminous skin and be the glow of the party. www.zhav.com.au

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Fresha’s AI-Powered Defense Reduces Fraud By 99%

Fresha, the global business management platform for the beauty, wellness and self-care industry, is accelerating its global expansion while reinforcing its position as the safest and most secure platform on the market.

In just six months, Fresha’s proprietary AI and Machine Learning technology has reduced fraud by an incredible 99%, preventing fraudulent transactions from affecting businesses and clients. This milestone sets a new benchmark for security in the industry, showcasing Fresha’s commitment to staying ahead of evolving cyber threats and ensuring unparalleled protection for businesses and clients worldwide.

To achieve this, Fresha combines advanced AI-driven fraud prevention with a comprehensive layered security program. By leveraging frameworks like ISO 27001, HIPAA, and GDPR, Fresha ensures that data is protected, vulnerabilities are identified in real time, and all system access is tightly controlled. Zero-trust access management, continuous automated compliance monitoring, and secure vendor protocols further minimize risks, ensuring both proactive and reactive defences are in place.

Fresha’s AI-powered fraud detection system uses predictive analytics to identify suspicious patterns before they cause harm—going beyond traditional, reactive methods. Advanced transaction scoring monitors multiple parameters to detect fraudulent activity, while automated systems flag and block payment fraud attempts—such as stolen card transactions—before they happen. Furthermore, Fresha’s secure messaging infrastructure proactively combats SMS and email phishing scams, ensuring that clients and businesses remain protected across every interaction.

To further strengthen its security posture, Fresha invites skilled security researchers and ethical hackers to partner in enhancing the platform’s security infrastructure. Through a comprehensive bug bounty program, Fresha fosters collaboration with the cybersecurity community to proactively identify and address potential vulnerabilities. The focus is on discovering high-impact security findings that help maintain the robust protection Fresha users expect and deserve. Qualified security researchers interested in participating in the bug bounty program can reach out to security@fresha.com for detailed program guidelines, scope, and reward information.

“As we continue to grow, our responsibility to safeguard businesses and clients grows with us,” said William Zeqiri, Founder & CEO at Fresha. “Fraudsters are becoming increasingly sophisticated, but so are we. With our proprietary AI and Machine Learning systems, we don’t just react to fraud—we stop it before it even starts. Combined with our robust compliance and security frameworks, this ensures that Fresha remains the safest and most reliable platform in the industry.”

Fresha’s approach to security is not just about fraud prevention—it’s about maintaining a seamless, efficient experience for over 130,000 partners and tens of millions of users globally. By automating security processes, Fresha eliminates complexity while safeguarding operations at scale.

With fraud on the rise globally—including £571 million in card payment fraud in the UK in 2023 and projected $91 billion in e-commerce payment fraud losses by 2028—Fresha’s AI-driven security measures have never been more essential. As cybercriminals evolve, Fresha continues to lead the industry in setting new security benchmarks for trust and reliability. www.fresha.com

Inskin.Co Meets the Media

CEO and founder of mocha beauty, Linda Woodhead recently flew in to Sydney as an invited guest of inskincosmedics for the media launch of the newest baby and brain child of Maria Cocciolone, INSKIN.CO

Held at the stunning Potts Point Location – The Butler, in Sydney, members of the media and some very special salon guests enjoyed taking a look at the new brand, enjoying lunch and a few drinks to welcome the new bub to the family!

INSKIN.CO is a masstige, Cosmedical skincare brand that treats skin concerns and conditions with a targeted skin science approach, using clinical botanical actives in their functional doses to support a wider range of skin goals. INSKIN.CO is an attainable skin offer that is inclusive, transparent, and accountable in its formulations and, whilst straightforward in its approach, is created especially for the Professional Skincare Industry to support the consumers educated skin journey in their search for skin health.

This is all about Botanicals and science coming together in perfect harmony. Simple, but not basic. Attainable, Sunstainable. Cosmedical and with all with Botanical Functional Actives.

FunFact: The menu was based on the botanicals and ingredients within the brand! Amazing!

Mocha Group supports and celebrates these wins of our incredible partners and clients and a huge shout out to the powerhouse that is Maria Cocciolone for bringing yet another brand to life! www.inskinco.com

The regional beauty long lunch - Ballarat Sunday May 18th, 2025

The Regional Beauty Long Lunch is designed to unite therapists and business owners from regional towns who may not always have the same access to professional development opportunities as those in metropolitan areas. This one-day event is a celebration of collective strength and shared ambition, where regional therapists come together to learn, connect, and converse. By fostering a sense of community and mutual support, the Regional Long Lunch creates a powerful network of industry professionals who uplift one another, share invaluable insights, and spark new ideas. Together, we are stronger, and through this gathering, we empower regional salon owners and therapists to bring the highest standards of care, innovation, and expertise back to their businesses.

Get ready for an unforgettable day of connection, inspiration and all thing education. Think: delicious food, amazing conversations, connections and education and the perfect opportunity to connect with your beauty beasties in a gorgeous location

The incredible Tamara Reid will be MC for the day along with 6 amazing Industry Speakers.

Isabella Loneragan, James Vivian, Rachael Stevens, Kayla Zigic, Emelly Simons and Karen Geiszler

Head over to the website and secure your ticket now for Sunday 18th May. www.regionalbeautylonglunch.com

Make Up Trends for 2025

In the professional salon industry for 2025, expect trends like “no makeup” makeup, natural complexions, bold eyes, and a focus on sustainability and inclusivity, with AI and virtual consultations also playing a growing role.

Make Up can be an added service beauty professionals and salons can offer and with the move to a more natural approach this is something you can offer your clients after treatments so they can walk out of the salon and go straight back to work or to an event and not have to hide under their umbrella or large hat! Here’s a more detailed look at the key makeup trends expected in the professional salon industry for 2025:

1. “No Makeup” Makeup & Natural Complexions:

• Focus: Emphasizing a natural, healthy-looking skin appearance with minimal product use.

• Techniques: Light coverage foundations, tinted moisturizers, and subtle highlighting to enhance natural features.

• Products: Skincare-infused foundations, lightweight concealers, and subtle blushes.

2. Bold Eyes & Unexpected Pops of Colour:

• Focus: Experimenting with vibrant eyeshadow colours, graphic eyeliner, and dramatic lashes.

• Techniques: Smoky cat-eye looks, colourful eyeshadow washes, and winged eyeliner.

• Products: High-pigment eyeshadow palettes, waterproof eyeliners, and volumizing mascaras.

3. Minimalist Beauty & Multi-Use Products:

• Focus: Streamlining makeup routines with versatile products that can be used in multiple ways.

• Techniques: Using blush as eyeshadow, or lipstick as a cheek tint, and layering tinted balm or gloss over lip liner.

• Products: Multi-use palettes, cream-to-powder products, and versatile lipsticks.

4. Sustainability & Eco-Friendly Practices:

• Focus: Consumers are increasingly seeking sustainable and eco-friendly beauty products and practices.

• Techniques: Using reusable makeup containers, opting for cruelty-free products, and reducing waste.

• Products: Eco-friendly packaging, natural ingredients, and sustainable sourcing.

5. Inclusivity & Diverse Shade Ranges:

• Focus: Offering a wider range of products and services to cater to diverse skin tones and ethnicities.

• Techniques: Providing personalized consultations and tailoring makeup looks to individual clients’ needs.

• Products: Inclusive colour palettes, diverse foundation shades, and products that cater to various skin types.

6. AI & Virtual Consultations:

• Focus: Leveraging technology to enhance salon operations and customer experiences.

• Techniques: Using AI-powered tools for product recommendations, virtual makeup trials, and personalized skincare routines.

• Products: AI-driven beauty apps, virtual consultation platforms, and smart skincare devices.

Make a LASTING IMPRESSION with our exclusive GIFT SET featuring: Imperfect Spirits Gin, 2x bottles of tonic/soda & 3 tailored garnishes, perfect for clients and employees!

Customise your label for a unique touch with a min. order of 20 bottles!

Check out the range at www.cgginco.com.au or email info@imperfectspirits.com.au

Elevating Lash & Brow Artistry: The Elleebana Education Experience

By Louise May

In the world of lash and brow artistry, staying ahead requires more than just talent—it demands continuous learning, innovation, and access to top-tier education. At Elleebana, education is at the core of everything we do. We believe in empowering beauty professionals with the knowledge and techniques to refine their craft, build confidence, and elevate their business success. From our globally recognised Lash Lift Courses to our exclusive Masterclass Series and the groundbreaking new series of sold-out webinars, Elleebana is redefining industry education.

Building a Community of Excellence

Elleebana’s journey began with a simple yet powerful mission: to elevate the careers of beauty professionals worldwide. Since 1995, we have prioritised innovation and quality. Our flagship products, Elleebana One Shot and Elleeplex Profusion, have become essential systems for achieving stunning and consistent results. Over the years, we have built a community fostering a culture of support and excellence, marked by continuous learning and a relentless drive to uplift the industry. From humble beginnings to a global presence, Elleebana remains dedicated to inspiring, educating, and empowering beauty professionals at every stage of their careers.

The Power of Education in the Beauty Industry

Education is the key to mastery. In an industry that is constantly evolving, the most successful lash and brow artists are those who invest in their education and stay updated with the latest techniques, trends, and scientific advancements. Elleebana’s curriculum is designed to help beauty professionals of all levels refine their skills, gain in-depth knowledge, and become leaders in their field.

Our courses are structured to provide both theoretical and practical insights, ensuring that students not only understand the science behind lash lifting and brow lamination but also master application techniques that deliver outstanding results.

Elleebana’s Lash Lift Courses are multi-award-winning and renowned worldwide, offering upcoming lash & brow artists hands-on training with cutting-edge techniques. Whether you’re a beginner looking to enter the lash industry or an experienced professional aiming to perfect your craft, our courses cater to all skill levels. Taught by industry-leading educators, these courses cover everything from the fundamentals of lash lifting to advanced troubleshooting methods.

Our training doesn’t stop at technique. We equip our students with essential business and marketing knowledge to help them attract and retain clients, build a loyal customer base, and ultimately, thrive in the competitive beauty industry.

Elleebana Lash Lift Courses: Elevate Your Skills

The Elleevation Masterclass Series: Learning from the Best Education is not just about learning techniques; it’s about gaining inspiration and practical insights from industry leaders. The Elleevation Masterclass Series is designed to bring world-class education to lash and brow professionals. With renowned speakers and expert trainers, these classes go beyond traditional training to include advanced techniques, business strategies, and mindset coaching.

We have collaborated with top industry figures like Julie Piantadosi, a globally acclaimed business coach, and Cherie Clonan, a digital marketing expert. Their expertise helps beauty professionals not only refine their technical skills but also improve their branding, social media presence, and business strategies.

Elleebana Webinars: A Gateway to Knowledge

Elleebana’s commitment to education extends to a highly successful series of live and pre-recorded webinars, designed to address the specific needs of lash and brow artists worldwide. These webinars are crafted to help professionals refine their skills, troubleshoot challenges, and gain deeper insights into industry advancements—all from the comfort of their own space.

Each month, our live webinars cover a variety of hot topics, from mastering glue control and advanced lifting techniques to perfecting brow lamination and understanding product formulations. These sessions are led by Elleebana’s expert educators, who bring a wealth of experience and passion to each session.

Recognising the need for flexible learning, we also offer pre-recorded webinars, allowing beauty professionals to access high-quality training at their convenience. These webinars provide:

Expert-Led Training – Learn directly from Elleebana’s award-winning trainers. Flexible Learning – Watch anytime, anywhere, at your own pace.

Comprehensive Coverage – Explore key topics including science, troubleshooting, and business strategies.

Ongoing Access – Rewatch and refine your skills with extended access options.

Our webinars are designed for beauty professionals at every stage of their career, offering a structured approach to improving their artistry and business success. Whether you’re looking to enhance your existing skills or learn new techniques, our webinars provide practical, results-driven education that empowers artists to excel.

Commitment to Excellence and Innovation

Elleebana has earned its reputation through a constant commitment to innovation and has set new standards in the lash and brow industry. We continually invest in research and development to address industry challenges and meet the evolving needs of beauty professionals.

An important part of Elleebana’s success is our ability to offer solutions that help lash and brow artists worldwide. Our approach has always been to balance efficiency with safety, ensuring optimal results while protecting the integrity of natural lashes and brows. We continue to shape the future of lash lifting with groundbreaking techniques, industry-leading training, and a community-driven approach to education.

Why Invest in Elleebana Education?

Elleebana’s commitment to education extends beyond technical training. We foster a community where artists can network, share knowledge, and support each other in their journey. Whether through in-person masterclasses, hands-on courses, live webinars, or prerecorded training, Elleebana ensures that beauty professionals have access to the best resources available.

With our comprehensive curriculum, expert-led sessions, and flexible learning options, Elleebana is setting the standard for lash and brow education worldwide.

Are you ready to take your skills to the next level? Explore our training options and join the Elleebana Education Revolution today!

Visit www.elleebana.com to enrol now.

A One Woman Powerhouse !

Meet 2024 ABIA Sole Operator of the Year & Eco Salon of the Year, Sara Bowtell from House Of Samara.

By Louise May

Tucked away in the quiet beauty of Allambie Heights on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, there’s a little clinic doing big things. And at the heart of it all is Sara Bowtell – passionate skin therapist, dedicated nutritionist, environmental advocate, and proud owner of House of Samara.

With over 25 years of industry experience and a deeply cemented belief in holistic care, Sara’s work is about so much more than skincare. Her unique blend of science, sustainability, and soul has not only earned her the respect of her clients and community, but also the industry at large –recently taking home both the 2024 ABIA Sole Operator of the Year and the ABIA Eco Salon of the Year.

For Sara, it’s not about accolades. It’s about impact.

Nine years ago, Sara opened House of Samara with a clear mission: to create a clinic that cares – not only for skin, but for the whole person and the planet too. As a sole operator, she wears every hat in the business – therapist, receptionist, educator, mentor, researcher, writer, and environmentalist – and somehow manages to bring love and energy to every single role.

A typical day might include advanced skin consultations, nutritional guidance, microneedling or LED therapy, and helping a client understand what their skin is trying to tell them. But it doesn’t end there. Sara is constantly researching, upskilling, planting vegetables out the front of her clinic, or coordinating local beach clean-ups.

The success of House of Samara is deeply personal. It reflects Sara’s values, her resilience, and her drive to leave the world better than she found it. Her clinic has become a trusted sanctuary for teens, professionals, mums, and CEOs alike – all seeking something deeper, something real.

Real Skin, Real Talk

Sara’s expertise lies in treating skin conditions like acne, rosacea, pigmentation and premature ageing – but her point of difference is her whole-body approach. She’s a corneotherapist and accredited nutritionist with a Bachelor of Health Science and a recently completed Master of Human Nutrition from Deakin University. Her clients don’t just walk away with a facial – they leave with understanding, empowerment, and a plan tailored to their unique needs, lifestyle, and budget.

She’s passionate about cutting through the overwhelm of the beauty world to help clients make informed choices that work. Every consultation starts with education, with a focus on achievable, sustainable skincare routines. All services are customised and designed to support real, lasting change – inside and out.

A Green Salon, Inside and Out

Sustainability is woven into every part of House of Samara. From solar panels and rainwater tanks to electric vehicles and refillable product programs, Sara is proving that small businesses can make a big difference. She’s a proud member of Sustainable Salons, diverting up to 95% of her waste from landfill and transforming it into new resources – like park benches and bollards. Her return rewards program encourages clients to bring back empty product packaging in exchange for loyalty points, with an impressive 82% return rate. Every glove, every pipette, every cotton bud is thoughtfully disposed of and repurposed where possible.

Sara even composts clients’ food scraps from their appointments via a Bokashi bin system and offers homegrown herbs and limes from her garden. And yes, clients have absolutely pulled their own carrots from the veggie patch out front.

Her efforts haven’t gone unnoticed. From receiving the Northern Beaches Council Outstanding Sustainability Award to features in The Guardian, local councils, and industry publications – House of Samara is a leading example of how the beauty industry can become a force for good. “I don’t believe we need to sacrifice results for sustainability,” she says. “We can do both. We can use beautiful, effective products while also thinking about the planet. It’s about being conscious and doing the best we can.”

Community at the Core

At the heart of Sara’s business is connection – with her clients, the community, and the land itself. She leads beach clean-ups, participates in Take 3 for the Sea and Clean Up Australia Day, and uses her platform to encourage others to reduce their environmental impact in ways that feel achievable.

Whether she’s speaking on sustainability panels, hosting educational events, or mentoring other salon owners, Sara’s message is clear: we’re all capable of making a difference.

Her clinic has become more than just a place to treat skin – it’s a hub for growth, learning, and meaningful change. Clients aren’t just treated; they’re inspired.

Juggling It All (And Keeping It Real)

Running a business solo is no easy feat – especially while raising teenagers and completing a master’s degree. Sara’s honesty about the challenges she’s faced – from burnout and time constraints to the emotional juggle of motherhood and business – is one of the reasons she’s so loved and respected.

During the busiest periods of her study, Sara made the decision to reduce her clinic hours and cap new client bookings, ensuring she could give her full attention to the people already in her care. That decision not only protected her energy, but strengthened client loyalty and increased retention and average spend.

“It was a lesson in slowing down to speed up,” she shares. “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Learning to say no was hard at first, but it allowed me to show up better – not just for my clients, but for myself.”

Sara’s story is a reminder that balance is possible – even if it takes time, trial and error, and the occasional veggie patch therapy session.

Skin, Science, and Soil

A self-confessed science nerd, Sara’s love of learning is ongoing. She regularly updates her in-salon library with books and journals on skin health, gut health, and environmental science. She’s a member of multiple professional associations and is planning to attend the International Corneotherapy Symposium in Germany to further her understanding of the skin’s innate immune system.

She’s also an AUSMAP citizen scientist, trained in microplastic sampling, which she conducts locally and sends off to Macquarie University for analysis. This hands-on work feeds directly into her clinic’s education model and environmental practices.

As she says, “Your skin is only as good as what’s going on underneath – and what’s going on around us. It’s all connected.”

Looking Ahead

Sara plans to continue building on the strong foundations she’s created at House of Samara—sharing her knowledge, supporting other small business owners, and staying focused on practical, achievable sustainability. She’s already mentoring others in the industry and encouraging more salon owners to look at how they can run their businesses in a more eco-conscious way.

From thoughtful touches like reusable cups and a book-swap library, to larger initiatives like solar energy, composting, and product returns programs, every part of the clinic has been designed with intention and care.

Winning two ABIA titles in 2024 - Sole Operator of the Year and Eco Salon of the Year, was a proud moment and a recognition of the years of consistent work behind the scenes. But for Sara, the real success lies in the steady impact she’s having every day—on her clients, the community, and the environment around her.

House of Samara is a clear example of how one person, with a strong vision and a whole lot of dedication, can create meaningful change.

@sarahouseofsamara

Sense of Skin & Beauty: Elevating Skin Confidence Through Customised Care

By Louise May

Behind every successful skin clinic is a story—and for Brehanna Sanders, founder of Sense of Skin & Beauty, it’s one of passion, persistence, and a deep desire to help others feel confident in their own skin. With over 11 years in the industry and a personal journey that began with teenage acne and trialling product after product with no results, Bre knows firsthand how skin challenges can affect your selfesteem and mental wellbeing.

What started as a curiosity and determination to heal her own skin has grown into a thriving, client-focused clinic that prioritises education, customisation, and genuine care. Located in Queensland, Sense of Skin & Beauty has become known for its warm, welcoming approach and its dedication to treating the cause—not just the surface symptoms—of skin conditions.

We caught up with Bre to chat about her journey, her approach to skin health and what’s ahead for Sense of Skin & Beauty

Tell us a little about you, your business, and how your love for beauty all began.

I’ve proudly been in the beauty and skin industry for over 11 years now. From a young age, I was fascinated by skin—especially because I battled with acne as a teenager. My mum was a hairdresser, so beauty was always part of our world. She would constantly research products and treatments in an effort to help me, but back then, the educational side of skin health wasn’t as accessible as it is today.

I tried just about everything—from over-the-counter products to different forms of contraception—hoping for a miracle fix, but nothing worked. That experience stuck with me. It was frustrating and lonely, and I felt like there had to be a better way. That’s what sparked my passion: I wanted to be the person I never had during my own skin journey. Helping others feel confident and educated about their skin became my mission—and that’s how Sense of Skin & Beauty was born.

What sets you apart from other clinics in the area?

We don’t believe in cookie-cutter treatments—because no two skins are ever the same, so why treat them that way? Every client who walks through our doors receives a fully customised treatment plan and a tailored homecare prescription designed just for them.

We take the time to understand what’s really going on beneath the surface. We don’t just treat symptoms—we treat the cause, so we can create long-lasting, visible results.

Could you elaborate on the supporting services you offer to enhance your clients’ overall well-being?

Absolutely. For us, skin is more than skin deep. We know how much skin conditions can impact someone’s self-confidence and mental well-being, so our approach is always holistic and compassionate. Whether a client is dealing with acne, pigmentation, or ageing concerns, we aim to not only treat the skin but to uplift their confidence and provide emotional support along the way. We also offer lifestyle and wellness advice when needed because everything is connected— and when clients feel supported inside and out, the results speak for themselves.

How do you ensure that your team stays updated with the latest advancements in skincare and beauty treatments? We’re passionate about education—it’s the heartbeat of everything we do. I truly believe you can never stop learning, especially in an industry that’s evolving so rapidly. We regularly attend workshops, advanced training, and brand education sessions to stay ahead. It’s important to me that my team feels empowered with knowledge and that we’re constantly growing both personally and professionally.

In a challenging economic climate, what strategies have helped you sustain and grow your business?

Flexibility and personalisation have been key. We’ve developed customised treatment programs that are results-driven but also mindful of our clients’ budgets and goals.

Our membership options have also been a game changer, providing clients with ongoing support and consistency, while also offering great value. It’s a win-win—they stay on track with their skin goals, and we build trust and loyalty over time.

What role does client education play in your approach to skincare, and how do you empower clients to maintain healthy skin between visits?

Client education is at the core of our consultation process. We want our clients to understand what’s really happening in their skin—not just hand them a product and hope for the best.

By helping them understand their skin type, concerns, and what’s driving those issues, we empower them to take control of their skincare journey. It builds trust, encourages consistency, and most importantly, creates lasting results. Education truly is the foundation of transformation.

You are a full Circadia Clinic—can you tell us why you chose to partner with Circadia?

Circadia has been on my radar for over six years. I was first introduced to the brand in the U.S. and was instantly intrigued by their scientific approach and incredible results. I watched closely over the years, and what really drew me in was their philosophy—their ‘why’ behind skin health aligned so perfectly with ours. They don’t just offer products—they offer understanding, innovation, and customisation. Circadia feels like a partner, not just a supplier.

What do you love about Circadia?

Where do I start? The versatility of their range is incredible. Circadia allows us to treat a wide variety of skin conditions with confidence, and every product has purpose. But beyond that, it’s the ability to customise treatments in a way that truly suits each individual client. That kind of flexibility is invaluable in-clinic.

What are some of the standout products from the Circadia range that your clients love, and why do you think they resonate so well with your clientele?

Honestly, our clients love the entire range—but if I had to pick one, the Light Day Sunscreen would be a standout. Being based in Queensland, where the heat and humidity can be extreme, it’s a product that fits seamlessly into their daily routines without feeling heavy or greasy. The whole range resonates because it’s effective, easy to use, and tailored to real skin issues—not just trends.

What future plans do you have for Sense of Skin & Beauty, and are there any new services or initiatives on the horizon?

We’re excited about what’s to come! We’re currently in the process of expanding our team so we can continue offering the high level of care and personalisation our clients know us for.

We’re also exploring some new advanced facial services and techniques that will complement our existing menu and allow us to deliver even more targeted results. It’s all about continuing to evolve, grow, and support our community in the best possible way.

@senseofskinandbeauty

Redefining Exceptional Skin Health: Meet Eden Aesthetics

2024 ABIA WA/NT Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year – 5 Treatment Rooms or More

By Louise May

In the heart of Margaret River, Western Australia, sits a clinic that has redefined what it means to offer truly exceptional skin health and cosmetic care. Eden Aesthetics, awarded the 2024 ABIA WA/ NT Salon/Spa/Clinic of the Year – 5 Treatment Rooms or More, has carved out its place as a standout not just for its treatments, but for the total experience it provides to every client who walks through its doors.

Founded in 2018 by Dr. Sarah Podmore, Eden Aesthetics was born from a vision: to bring advanced, ethical, and professional aesthetic services to a regional town, without compromising on quality or client care. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Sarah has built the business with intention and integrity, anchored in results, responsibility, and relationships.

From its very first day, Eden Aesthetics has focused on setting a new benchmark, not only for clinical results, but for how clients are made to feel. The business has grown in size and stature, but at its core remains personal, consistent, and welcoming. And one of its greatest strengths? The people.

Today, Eden Aesthetics operates with a skilled and dedicated team of dermal therapists, registered nurses, front-of-house professionals, and a marketing manager, all working closely under Sarah’s leadership. Incredibly, the original six team members who helped launch the clinic remain a part of the team six years later. This longevity speaks volumes about the strength of the culture, the mutual respect shared, and the unified vision that continues to guide the business.

It’s this kind of environment that naturally flows through to the client experience. From the first point of contact, every client is treated as an individual. They are greeted by name, welcomed into spacious, accessible treatment rooms, and supported with warmth, expertise, and transparency. The layout of the clinic has been carefully considered to promote comfort, flow, and inclusivity, with privacy and accessibility for all members of the community.

Over time, the client base at Eden Aesthetics has grown steadily through reputation alone. A large number of new clients arrive not through advertising, but from glowing referrals, proof that word-ofmouth remains one of the most powerful and authentic marketing tools in the industry. And behind those referrals is a deeply loyal community of clients who return time and again for the trusted care they receive.

At the heart of the Eden Aesthetics model is a commitment to value. Treatments are never rushed or fragmented; each one is thoughtfully curated to provide everything needed for optimal results, without unnecessary upsells or hidden extras. The philosophy is simple: if it will improve the client’s outcome, and it’s appropriate, it’s included.

This approach has helped to build deep trust and long-term client relationships. In recent times, Eden Aesthetics made a deliberate shift in its service menu, streamlining offerings to better align with the clinic’s evolving direction and growing demand for advanced skin treatments. The decision reflected a clear focus on the future, with an emphasis on high-performance services and tailored results. The outcome has been overwhelmingly positive, allowing the team to deepen their expertise, refine their craft, and deliver even greater value to clients.

Recognition of client loyalty is another hallmark of the Eden Aesthetics approach. From personalised gestures to thoughtfully curated events, the team goes above and beyond to show appreciation. Their annual birthday event is a signature celebration, a beautifully hosted evening where clients are invited to enjoy exclusive offers, previews of new treatment packages, and connection with the team. These moments aren’t just marketing, they’re meaningful celebrations of community and care.

Loyalty is also honoured in more personal ways. Each year, Eden Aesthetics takes time to acknowledge long-term clients in ways that are heartfelt, generous, and reflective of the relationships they’ve built. It’s this level of detail and genuine gratitude that leaves a lasting impression, and keeps clients returning year after year.

But Eden Aesthetics’ impact isn’t limited to its clientele. As a business, it has long been embedded in the wider community. Whether it’s mentoring local high school students considering careers in the beauty industry, sponsoring local events, or supporting nearby schools and sporting clubs, Eden Aesthetics continues to show up and give back in meaningful ways. This sense of responsibility, to people, to place, and to purpose, is deeply woven into the business ethos.

Environmental care is another priority. Aware of the beauty industry’s environmental footprint, Eden Aesthetics has implemented a number of sustainability practices across the clinic, from eco-conscious cleaning to reducing single-use plastics and rehoming materials locally. Their current journey toward becoming a certified sustainable business reflects an ongoing commitment to doing business better, for their clients, their team, and the planet.

Behind the scenes, the Eden Aesthetics team thrives on continuous learning. Ongoing professional development is a non-negotiable, and team members are regularly supported in their growth through education, hands-on training, and access to industry events. This not only elevates the standard of treatments offered but ensures clients are receiving care from professionals who are always learning, evolving, and leading with confidence.

Team connection is just as important. Regular meetings, professional checkins, and a flexible, supportive work environment have helped cultivate a workplace where people feel empowered, appreciated, and motivated. Eden Aesthetics embraces a culture where life and work are both respected. Whether it’s attending a child’s school assembly or managing study commitments, the team works together to support each other’s personal and professional goals.

Much of this comes back to Sarah’s leadership, grounded in empathy, clarity, and an unwavering focus on doing things the right way. Her approach is collaborative and empowering, always encouraging her team to grow and thrive. Beyond the clinic, Sarah also gives back to the industry, mentoring other professionals and clinics without expectation. It’s this generosity of spirit that reflects the true essence of leadership, not just within Eden Aesthetics, but across the broader aesthetic community.

While Eden Aesthetics continues to evolve, what remains unchanged is its heart. Every decision, whether clinical, operational or strategic, is filtered through a client-first lens. Their goal has never been to be the biggest. It’s been to be the best at what they do, for the people they serve.

Eden Aesthetics serves as a reminder that success doesn’t always come from shouting the loudest or doing the most. Sometimes, it comes from choosing the right things, prioritising your team, honouring your clients, staying in your lane, and doing business with integrity and care.

It’s about being consistent in what you stand for. And as Eden Aesthetics continues to show, it’s that consistency, day in and day out, that builds a business not only worth recognising, but worth remembering.

@eden_aesthetics

Where Care is not a Feature, it’s the Foundation at Skin Resq Perth

By Louise May

In an industry where client experience is everything, Skin ResQ has quietly carved out a space where care is not just a feature of the business. It is the foundation of it.

Founded in 2009 by

Caryll Wiggers,

the clinic has spent more than 15 years developing a reputation grounded in consistency, professionalism and results. What began as a small skin clinic in South Perth has steadily evolved into a trusted destination for those seeking not just skin treatments, but long-term support, education and a sense of connection.

Client care at Skin ResQ is not treated as a separate component of the business. It is integrated into the entire service journey. The clinic supports a diverse client base with personalised treatment plans, but a significant focus lies in addressing the skin concerns of peri-menopausal and menopausal women. Common concerns in this group include inflammation, pigmentation, hormonal breakouts and loss of elasticity. These clients are supported through tailored consultation, customised treatment pathways and an educational approach that helps them understand their skin and the options available.

Each new client begins with a skin consultation, during which individual concerns, goals and relevant medical or lifestyle factors are assessed. The consultation process is structured but flexible, with an emphasis on listening and guiding. First-time clients receive a welcome pack that includes gift vouchers for treatments, a mini fruit enzyme product to take home and a handwritten welcome note. This initial experience sets the tone for a relationship that extends beyond the appointment itself.

After a client’s visit, the clinic maintains contact through a follow-up email and a phone call the following day. These communications are therapist-led and designed to ensure that clients feel supported, informed and confident following their treatment. This step is part of the clinic’s standard protocol and is consistently delivered as part of their ongoing service model.

The clinic operates from a purpose-built space that was completed following a relocation and expansion. The new location includes four fully equipped treatment rooms and has been designed to maintain the same calm and inviting atmosphere clients have come to expect. Heated beds, a signature scent and seasonal teas are offered to create a consistent and welcoming environment. The reception and consultation areas have been structured for privacy, comfort and functionality.

Managing the relocation presented challenges. The team navigated the transition while continuing to run a busy clinic. Systems were refined to streamline scheduling and communication, and the team underwent training on new equipment and updated procedures. Throughout the process, Skin ResQ maintained its service standards and ensured a seamless transition for clients.

The clinic’s treatment menu includes a range of evidence-based services such as Tixel, IPL rejuvenation, Healite LED therapy, skin tightening, resurfacing peels, laser treatments, medifacials, clinical acne treatments, microdermabrasion, epi-dermal levelling and skin needling with Dermapen 4. These services are supported by detailed consultations, skin assessments and a strong focus on homecare planning. Clients are educated on how to support their results outside the clinic, and ongoing reviews are scheduled to adjust plans as needed.

Caryll Wiggers

Skin ResQ’s team is comprised of dermal therapists, laser technicians and skin specialists, each trained in both service delivery and client communication. Continuous professional development is prioritised through attendance at industry conferences, supplier-led education and regular internal training.

Internal culture is a central part of Skin ResQ’s success. The clinic runs three fully paid team retreat days annually. These days are structured around professional development, team alignment and value reinforcement. Each retreat offers space to review processes, provide feedback and reconnect as a team. The values upheld by the business, are discussed and applied actively, rather than simply displayed.

The retreat days form part of a broader focus on wellbeing and sustainable performance for staff. These initiatives help maintain consistency in service, reduce burnout and support long-term retention within the team. This directly impacts the client experience, ensuring a stable, cohesive environment where care is delivered with genuine focus.

In addition to their in-clinic operations, Skin ResQ contributes to the wider community through local initiatives and charity support. In March the clinic hosted the She Thrives event. This special event was created to transform women’s approach to menopause and inspire their wellness and skin journey. With talks from Women’s Health Specialists, and strategies to help thrive through menopause and beyond, this initiative was run with the intent of giving back, rather than promoting the clinic, and aligned with Skin ResQ’s broader commitment to positive social impact.

The clinic also supports selected charities including Dementia Australia through direct contributions. This community support is ongoing and forms part of the clinic’s identity, reflecting its values in practice.

Technology is incorporated into the business where it enhances client experience. iPads are used for consultations, digital notetaking and consent processes. This allows for efficient, clear documentation while maintaining a personal and therapist-led approach. The use of technology supports the clinic’s focus on individualised attention without removing the human element.

Skin ResQ’s operations are guided by structure and detail. From the timing of consultations to the language used in client communications, every step is delivered with intention and consistency. The layout of the treatment rooms, the follow-up process and the team’s shared standards all work together to create a seamless and reassuring experience.

To be named a finalist in the 2024 Australian Beauty Industry Awards for Best Customer Care reflects the business’s ability to deliver care not as a promise but as a standard. It is the result of years of refining systems, training staff, listening to client needs and showing up consistently. It is evident not only in how the clinic treats its clients, but in how it supports its team and contributes to its community.

Skin ResQ Perth has demonstrated that exceptional customer care is not reliant on a single gesture. It is built through thoughtful planning, clear intention and everyday action.

@skinresqperth

Success is not just what you accomplish in your life, but what you inspire others to do. Legacy is not built in the moment; it is forged in the impact you leave behind.

For the first time in the History of the Mocha Group, a select group of personally invited esteemed leaders, gathered for an exclusive event like no other - Mocha Elite.

Designed to inspire, elevate, and transform, this sixday journey redefined what it means to be a trailblazer in the hair, beauty, and barbering industries. Hosted at the luxurious Langham Hotel on the breathtaking Gold Coast, Mocha Elite was more than an event; it was an experience that will be etched in the hearts and minds of its attendees forever.

Day One: The Arrival

From the moment our esteemed guests stepped onto the sun-kissed shores of the Gold Coast, they were welcomed with open arms into a world of luxury and exclusivity. Personal concierge service ensured a seamless check-in, and each delegate was gifted a bespoke luxury welcome pack - a curated collection of surprises reflecting the essence of Mocha Elite.

As the evening unfolded, the Clarity Room set the stage for an intimate welcome cocktail party. Amidst the clinking of glasses and laughter, connections were formed, stories were shared, and the tone was set for the transformational days ahead. Guests enjoyed remarkable roving canapés and lychee spritz cocktails while being mesmerised by a surprise magician who left everyone in awe with his mindblowing illusions.

Day Two: The Journey

The first full day of Mocha Elite began with a breakfast overlooking the ocean at the award-winning Akoya Restaurant. With minds open and hearts ready, delegates embarked on a conference day designed to challenge, uplift, and inspire.

Kurek Ashley, a globally renowned peak performance coach, took centre stage, leading a powerful session on mindset, success, and breaking barriers. His raw energy and unparalleled wisdom left delegates deeply engaged. Dr. Cheri Sotelo, flown in for the USA, followed, bringing her expertise in holistic wellness to the forefront, weaving together the eight dimensions of well-being to empower each individual in their personal and professional lives.

The afternoon was a deeply personal and transformative experience, centred around selflove, reinvention, and the power of self-belief. As Kurek Ashley so powerfully put it, ‘You either evolve or dissolve.’ Delegates were guided through a journey of introspection, peeling back the layers of doubt and limitation to reveal the most powerful version of themselves. Through moving discussions and powerful exercises, they were encouraged to embrace their worth, challenge old narratives, and step into their true potential. This was a defining moment of Mocha Elite—a time to reconnect, rediscover, and redefine who they were meant to be. The day concluded with an unforgettable dinner at Akoya, where conversations flourished over delicious food, fine wine and a shared sense of inspiration.

Day Three: The Downtime

The morning of Day Three began with a deeply restorative sound healing session led by Dr. Cheri Sotelo. This soul-stirring experience allowed delegates to centre themselves, recalibrate their energy, and embrace the stillness before the day unfolded. Mocha Elite was not just about learning—it was about balance. A day of leisure allowed our guests to unwind and rejuvenate. Some chose to indulge in spa treatments that were a signature part of the Mocha Elite experience,

while others soaked in the magnesium pool or explored the stunning Gold Coast surroundings. Pre-booked one-on-one sessions with our elite speakers provided personalised guidance, ensuring every attendee gained tailored insights.

Day Four: The Destination

A day of discovery awaited as delegates dived into branding and culture with Mocha Group’s General Manager, Jarred Stedman, followed by a session with business strategist Don Robertson. With over five decades of experience in business transformation, Don shared game-changing strategies on scaling businesses to unprecedented heights.

As the afternoon unfolded, Kurek Ashley led an unforgettable glass walk experience—a powerful exercise in overcoming fear, harnessing inner strength, and proving that the mind is far more powerful than we often believe. Delegates took each step with intention, learning firsthand that the barriers we perceive are often the ones we place upon ourselves. This was a defining moment of the Mocha Elite experience, where self-doubt was replaced with unwavering confidence and a renewed sense of purpose. The evening’s private dining experience at Akoya provided the perfect setting for deep reflection and meaningful discussions.

Day Five: The Reward

A true celebration of achievement awaited on Day Five—a moment to reflect on the journey so far and embrace the joy of success. The anticipation built as delegates gathered for what would be one of the most memorable experiences of Mocha Elite. The afternoon unfolded aboard a private luxury yacht, where the shimmering waters of the Gold Coast set the perfect backdrop for a day of pure indulgence and connection. Guests indulged in a carefully curated selection of roving gourmet dishes, including fresh oysters, perfectly prepared scallops, and delicious lobster rolls, all enjoyed in an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication as they sailed through breathtaking scenery. The experience was further elevated by a gin masterclass, hosted by Kellie Woodhead, art director for mocha group and her partner, in both business and life, Cuba Krzyzanowski, showcasing their exceptional brand, Imperfect Spirits. A private DJ set the tone, blending relaxation with celebration as delegates danced, laughed, and embraced the moment.

Throughout the afternoon, laughter and meaningful conversations strengthened connections among delegates. The yacht experience embodied the essence of Mocha Elite—a perfect blend of celebration, reflection, and shared success, with every detail designed to create an atmosphere of relaxed sophistication.

Day Six: The Farewell

The final morning brought reflection, gratitude, and powerful takeaways. Linda Woodhead, mocha group owner, led the recap, ensuring that every delegate walked away with not only knowledge but also actionable strategies to implement in their businesses and lives.

Dr. Cheri Sotelo delivered her final session on practical well-being, followed by a closing session with Kurek Ashley that left an indelible mark on all who attended. As guests departed, bound for home yet forever changed, one thing was certain—Mocha Elite was more than an event. It was a movement, a transformation, and a legacy in the making.

A Legacy Redefined

Mocha Elite was not just about learning; it was about stepping into a space where inspiration meets relaxation, where luxury and wisdom converge, and where established leaders refined their vision and elevated their impact. It was so much more than just legacy—deep friendships were formed, bonds that will last a lifetime, built on shared experiences, growth, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. As the inaugural Mocha Elite event came to a close, one undeniable truth remained: success is not measured by what we achieve but by the legacy we leave behind.

To the already accomplished and extraordinary individuals who embarked on this journey—this is just the beginning. You are the pioneers of a new era in the industry. You are the elites!

The impact of Mocha Elite will not end here; it will ripple outward, shaping the future for generations to come.

Special Thanks to Louise May, editor in chief of mocha group for assisting the delegates on their journey and Brittany Murton, mocha group EA for her organisational excellence!

A word from the Mocha Elite Delegates...

It was so lovely getting to spend time with Linda and the Mocha team on the Gold Coast at the first “mocha elite”. It was really obvious that you’d all worked so hard putting on such an exceptional event, as it was absolutely flawless, minus Cyclone Albert! I was so humbled to have been invited. The speakers were awesome, and the networking was incredible and all in such a luxurious environment as The Langham. I feel I’ve come away with great memories and new friends for life, all from the industry that we love, Hair & Beauty.

– Clare Castles, Vitaman Professional.

From the moment we arrived, mocha elite retreat felt different. The calibre of speakers and exceptional content was outstanding, but when likeminded entrepreneurs & creatives come together magic happens. Linda & the mocha group created an incredible experience with so much attention to detail , the beautiful hotel , the food & divine dining experiences , the opportunities to connect in a relaxed and friendly environment , having one on one time with each of the speakers were invaluable. So much gratitude for this opportunity, it was life changing.

– Michelle McCubbin-Gannon, Hair Body & Soul

Mocha Elite inspired us to inspire on the glittering Gold Coast, with zero personal sacrifices made for this extraordinary event. Being invited into the Mocha Elite delegacy was exciting at the time, but upon reflection, it was truly the greatest gift. As business leaders, legacy is everything to us, and here, we learned to bring that vision to life with a level of high-end detail that’s rare to experience in a learning environment. I felt, I knew, I grew— laughing loudly, forging friendships, and experiencing awe, fun, luxury, and dynamism. From world-class speakers and Super yachts to mastering new entrepreneurial skills and even walking on glass, the experience was unlike any other. Mocha Elite seamlessly blended health, business, and metaphysics, forging connections that will never be broken. It was an extraordinary privilege to be part of this. Thank you, Linda, Jarred, Lou and the Mocha team. You truly exceeded all expectations.

- Helen Owens, Tigerlamb

I have just attended the Mocha Elite Conference at the beautiful Langham Hotel, and to say it was transformative would be an understatement. I found myself in a room filled with extraordinary individuals—people I may never have crossed paths with if not for this event. From the very first moment, the atmosphere was electric with support, love, and genuine connection. The friendships formed were instant, deep, and truly inspiring. It’s difficult to put into words just how much this experience has shifted my perspective and ignited a new level of motivation within me. The speakers were beyond exceptional—not only did they share their knowledge and wisdom from the stage, but they were with us throughout the entire event, offering personal insights and one-on-one guidance that was truly invaluable. To have that level of access to such accomplished professionals was a privilege I won’t soon forget. I walked away on the final day with an energy and mindset unlike anything I have ever felt after a conference. I am more determined than ever to achieve my goals—and go beyond them. I was challenged, pushed outside my comfort zone in ways I never expected (yes, I even walked on glass!), and came out stronger for it. A heartfelt thank you to Linda, Jarred, and Louise—your dedication, passion, and generosity made this an unforgettable experience. This conference wasn’t just about learning; it was about transformation, and I am forever grateful for the impact it has had on me.

- Gay Wardle, Gay Wardle Education.

A perfectly and professionally curated symposium of like-minded people from the hair and beauty industry which included salon owners and suppliers. The guest speakers stayed with us for the duration of the trip so they, and us could fully immerse ourselves into the near weeklong programme and build a trust and understanding of the complexities of our daily business lives. The friendship and camaraderie that was shared and displayed by all opened up the honesty and professional growth that we are all craving as we strive to be the best we can be within our own businesses. New professional and personal skills were brought to the fore, coupled with much needed ‘down time’ where there was opportunity for more relaxed open discussion on the highs and lows of our business, plus new opportunities for the future. Personally, for me? Probably one of the most valuable weeks of my professional career. Great people; newfound friendships; new business opportunities.

- Simon Pitt, Orange Tree Consulting

Wow, Mocha Team—you’ve done it again! The MOCHA ELITE Congress was an incredible experience, delivering real value not just for our business but for us personally as well. Stene and I are truly grateful for the insights, connections, and inspiration we gained. Ironically, you even got me to step outside my comfort zone and engage with social media—and, more importantly, you equipped us with the right tools to do it successfully. That alone is a huge win! This program was more than just professional development—it was about building lasting friendships and a supportive community that will continue for years to come. A huge thank you to Linda and the entire Mocha team—your passion and dedication shine through in everything you do. Being among the first MOCHA ELITES is an honour, and it’s a true reflection of our absolute belief in this incredible team. Congratulations on a phenomenal event!

– Corri and Stene Marshall, Dermapenworld

I was blessed to be invited to take up a space at the attended the first ever Mocha Elite event—a powerful gathering of self-made founders and CEO’s from the hair, skin, and body industries. With just twelve of us in attendance, the intimate setting allowed for deep forever connections and invaluable insights. The motivational speakers and discussions on business modelling and marketing were truly uplifting, leaving me feeling reinvigorated and ready to take on new challenges. It was an experience that perfectly aligned with my drive and aspirations and one that I will cherish on my business journey.

– Tony Awad, Lux Brands Australia

My experience with Mocha Elite was a time surrounded by positive, motivated, like-minded business owners. The opportunity to learn and share experiences in a safe and constructive space was invaluable. The relationships formed will last a lifetime and the experience has empowered me to be a stronger, more confident version of myself. In the words of the closing song for Mocha Elite…I’ve had the time of my life

– Penny Bebb, Conceptual Brands

My cup is now full...we have attended many conferences over the years and each one had a special light bulb moment, however the light bulb moments at the mocha elite journey just kept getting brighter and brighter, the loving and truly admirable speakers felt like they were our friends, never have we been able to connect with them one on one, as for Linda and crew, this event was truly celebrity style, gifts, love, pampering, entertainment, fun and luxurious. It ticked all the boxes, and the memories will live for ever.

- Pina Khalaf, Hair, Body & Soul

When I was invited to Mocha Elite. I had no idea what it was, but I knew anything to do with mocha was a yes from me. So, with juggling 3 young children; a raging skin clinic and no outside help I knew I needed to go. Firstly, because I couldn’t believe I was selected… me? Are you serious little me from my skin clinic in Perth. Insert imposter syndrome here. But I just knew in my gut I had to go. So, I did even with being unwell and all the things I went. My god. Firstly, I have never in my life felt so embraced, loved on and accepted, but by a group of people I absolutely look up to in business. And they knew my name! I could not believe these people knew who I was. I absolutely knew who they were. Secondly, I realised I am actually worthy and ‘successful enough’ to be sitting with these absolute powerhouse CEOs. That I have created something so special, and my story is important too. That the table I always wanted to sit at but didn’t think I was good enough to be at… I was not only sitting at, but so worthy of being there.Lastly, I got more out of this personally than I ever could have imagined. A lifetime of self-doubt despite my success, gone. A group of people I look up to that I now call my friends, here. I will never be more grateful to Jarred, Linda and Louise for selecting me.

– Kristin Rose, Peachy Skin Clinic

I had the privilege of attending the very first Mocha Elite and it didn’t disappoint. From the moment I arrived I was taken care of and made to feel very special. The fellow attendees were an inspiration, and I feel I have gained friends and comrades for life! The schedule was beautifully put together and the value I gained from the speakers will be life changing. The perfect balance of education, relaxation, fun and connection! I can’t wait to be part of it ongoing!

– Samantha Jones, Ms Monaco Hair Society

My Life Changing Experience with Mocha Elite.... After 30+ years in the industry, attending countless conferences and retreats, I thought I had seen it all until Mocha Elite. This wasn’t just another event, it was a transformational experience that redefined my mindset, leadership, and personal growth. The strategies and principles I learned weren’t just inspiring—they were life-changing. I’ve now embedded them into my daily routine, elevating not only my leadership but my entire outlook on success. This wasn’t motivation, it was a complete reset. It challenged my mindset in ways I never expected, who would have thought after all these years. I’m beyond grateful for this experience and look forward to my next personal invitation. Growth never stops, and thanks to Mocha Elite, I’m more committed than ever to leading and elevating this industry.

– Sharlene Lee, Circles

As a newcomer to the Industry, I felt privileged to be invited to the Inaugural Mocha Elite Networking Conference. Not knowing what to expect I went along ready to open myself up to whatever was ahead of us. Coming together at the first Cocktail Party it was a little awkward, but honestly that lasted 5 minutes, as everyone was ready to allow themselves to network and making new friends. The fact that the group was a mix of Industry Professionals that all shared a common thread made it so easy to connect. Over the 5 days we got to learn more about ourselves and how we can not only be better at what we do but who we are as people. More importantly we got to know each other as people. I have been involved in several groups and clubs where networking was the agenda, however the Mocha Elite group and the mix of people that were invited all came in with what felt like a sense of friendship and openness that allowed all of us to connect like we were lifelong friends... The Hair/Skin& Beauty Industry has and will continue to be my life, making associations through this group has made it even more meaningful. I want to thank Linda for coming up with the idea and Jarred and the whole Mocha team to arranging such a seamless event.

- Carmelo Francese, Inspire Brands

Attending the Mocha Elite retreat was a transformative experience where inspiration met relaxation in the most uplifting way. Surrounded by a selected group of driven entrepreneurs, I not only expanded my business network but also formed meaningful friendships. The calibre of guest speakers was truly exceptional, delivering powerful insights that ignited motivation and empowerment within us all. The skills, perspectives and renewed mindset I gained were presented in a fun and supportive environment, leaving me confident that my personal growth will positively impact my business and team. The Mocha team’s attention to detail and personal touch made this retreat an unforgettable experience.

– Lea Taylor, Founder of Naked

Tan.

Elevating Salon Excellence: A Journey to the 2025 Phorest Salon Owners Summit in Dublin

By Jarred Stedman – Mocha Group GM

A Detour with a Difference

The itinerary was set. We were to meet other Australian salon owners in Dublin, including Kristian Tognini of Tognini’s and Hey Hair in Brisbane and Caroline Doley from SkinDeep Spa in Western Australia. However, travel, much like business, doesn’t always go to plan.

After 11 hours in the air, we were informed that due to extreme hurricane winds in Ireland (126 km/h!), our flight was grounded indefinitely. What was meant to be a short layover in Dubai stretched into a two-day detour. But rather than seeing it as an inconvenience, we embraced the adventure.

Dubai, a city built in just 40 years, is a marvel of modern architecture, luxury, and hospitality. With only our hand luggage, we made the most of our time, embodying the philosophy my wife and I live by when we travel: “Let’s do it like we’re never coming back.”

From dune buggies and sandboarding to camel rides and four-wheel driving, we seized the moment. We explored the architectural wonder that is the Museum of the Future and stood in awe before the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. It was an unexpected yet unforgettable prelude to the main event.

An Invitation to Inspire

When Phorest extended an invitation for mocha group to be the Official Media Partner and attend the highly anticipated Global Salon Summit in Dublin, I knew it was an opportunity not to be missed. As the media partner and General Manager of Mocha Group, I boarded a flight from Sydney, Australia, with the handpicked Phorest Australian team, ready to immerse ourselves in an event that promised to inspire, challenge, and elevate the industry we love.

Our delegation included Sandy Carty, Phorest’s Australian Country Manager; Kimberly Martin, Regional Marketing Manager; Bev Davis, Operations Manager; Jenna Michelle and Kalista, both Salon Business Consultants. With bags packed, visas in hand, and a newly created WhatsApp group to keep us connected, we embarked on what would become an unforgettable journey.

Arriving in Dublin: The Heartbeat of Phorest

Landing in Dublin, we were welcomed into a city brimming with history, warmth, and innovation. The Phorest Salon Owners Summit 2025 was about to begin, and the energy was palpable.

Now in its ninth year, the summit has become a beacon for salon professionals worldwide. With over 650 attendees, this was the largest Summit to date, a testament to Phorest’s commitment to fostering an industry-leading global community. The event brought together salon owners, industry leaders, and innovators, all united by a shared passion for growth and success.

Sandy Carty, Phorest’s Australian Country Manager, reflected on the significance of the event:

“I recently attended the 2025 Salon Owner Summit held in the home of Phorest’s Head Office in Dublin, Ireland.

The conference was an overwhelming success, with over 650 attendees (its largest attendance to date), cementing its place as the premier event for salon owners and industry professionals across the globe.

This year’s Summit saw an incredible display of community spirit, bringing together a diverse group of salon owners, industry leaders, and innovators. Over the two days, I felt a real sense of energy and camaraderie amongst the crowd and a real thirst and motivation for learning. The event provided the opportunity for attendees to connect, learn, and grow together in an atmosphere charged with inspiration and excitement.

I left the Salon Owners Summit with a deeper love for and connection to the industry, and I am more motivated than ever to help salon, clinic, and spa owners have their best year yet.”

The event’s theme, Elevate, perfectly encapsulated the mission: to rise above challenges, refine our strategies, and embrace the future with confidence. Phorest has long been more than just a software provider; it is a partner in growth, a visionary force helping salons define their own benchmarks rather than conforming to industry averages.

Lessons, Leadership, and Limitless Potential

The summit was meticulously curated, blending thought-provoking panels, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities that fostered deep connections. Industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts took the stage to share their wisdom.

Keynote speaker Ken Hughes captivated the audience with his insights on branding, consumer loyalty, and the psychology of customer engagement. His discussion on how businesses, much like cultural icons such as Taylor Swift, create tribal loyalty left many of us reevaluating how we connect with our clients.

The beauty industry’s leading voices, including Winnie Awa, Keya Neal, Tendai Moyo, and Dija Ayodele, shared invaluable perspectives on inclusivity, innovation, and adapting to the evolving landscape. Peigin Crowley’s powerful session on burnout and resilience struck a chord, reminding us that success is not just about business growth but also about personal well-being.

Ronan Harrington’s session on sustainable high performance emphasized the importance of balancing ambition with renewal. His candid discussion on anxiety, burnout, and the pressures salon professionals face resonated deeply, reinforcing the need for self-care in our industry.

Technology also took center stage, with Dr. Anne Marie Imafidon shedding light on AI’s transformative impact on the salon industry. Kati Whitledge’s session on mastering the client lifestyle provided actionable strategies for retention and engagement.

Phorest also welcomed key partners like Vish, Dermalogica, and Mya, who played a significant role in enhancing the experience, providing additional networking and educational opportunities that strengthened the industry’s global connections.

Beyond Business: A Celebration of Community

Phorest is known for its unique ability to blend professional development with moments of pure joy. From the electrifying energy of Bingo Loco to the unforgettable moment when our very own Australian General Manager, Sandy Carty, took the stage to belt out Ice Ice Baby, the summit was as much about connection as it was about education.

The final night’s celebration at an elegant, French-inspired venue was the perfect conclusion—a moment to reflect on the learnings, friendships, and inspiration gained over the past few days.

Looking Ahead

The Phorest Salon Owners Summit continues to set the benchmark for industry events, and the 2026 summit is already confirmed for January 25–26, returning to the Royal Convention Centre in Dublin.

With a reputation for innovation and fostering a strong sense of community, Phorest stands out as a leader in salon technology and business growth. Recognized among the Deloitte Fast 50, the company serves nearly 11,000 businesses worldwide and over 160,000 beauty professionals across 11 regions. With a presence in Ireland, the UK, Finland, the Netherlands, Germany, Australia, Canada, and the US, Phorest’s commitment to pushing the industry forward remains steadfast.

Reflecting on this experience—from the unexpected adventures in Dubai to the transformative days in Dublin—one thing is clear: the Phorest community is thriving, and the future is full of possibilities. For those ready to embrace growth, innovation, and connection, the journey is only just beginning.

Phorest was born on the salon floor in Dublin, Ireland, 20 years ago. Since then, it has been shaped by hair and beauty professionals to ensure that the industry's trailblazers have the tools they need to thrive.

Phorest's all-in-one system allows you to elevate your guest experience and optimize your operations from booking to checkout. You'll generate more revenue with minimal effort while the passionate Phorest team is on your side from day one.

Beyond Laser & IPL: Why Electrolysis Deserves A Spot in Every Treatment Room.

By Karen Geiszler, KG Beauty & Modality Training

In a world where new technologies in beauty and aesthetics seem to appear overnight, there’s one time-tested treatment making a quiet, confident return: Electrolysis.

Once seen as the “gold standard” for permanent hair removal, electrolysis quietly took a back seat in the 1990s when laser and IPL hit the market. It was pushed aside in favour of newer, quicker, tech-forward treatments that seemed to meet the demand of the time.

But here’s what’s happening now: electrolysis is having a renaissance—and for good reason.

Electrolysis: The Precision Partner for Laser & IPL Laser and IPL treatments have transformed our industry, offering fast and effective hair reduction for many clients. But here’s the truth every therapist knows:

• They don’t work for everyone

• They don’t treat all hair colours or skin tones

• They don’t permanently remove every hair

This is where electrolysis steps in—not as a competitor, but as a powerful complement.

Electrolysis is the only treatment for permanent hair removal. It’s incredibly effective for fine, light, grey, white, and red hairs that Laser and IPL can’t target. It’s also safe and reliable for smaller, delicate areas, hormonal hair growth, and clients with medical conditions like PCOS or undergoing gender-affirming treatments.

A Growing Demand—and a Shortage of Electrologists There’s something not enough people are talking about: We have a skills shortage in this modality.

As demand for inclusive, long-term hair removal grows, the industry is facing a real gap in qualified professionals. Clinics are struggling to find trained electrologists—those with the confidence and clinical knowledge to perform safe, effective treatments.

For therapists looking to future-proof their careers, this shortage represents a huge opportunity. By gaining these skills now, you’re setting yourself apart in a competitive field.

Why Therapists Are Returning to Electrolysis More and more beauty professionals are realising what experienced electrologists have always known: A single modality simply doesn’t meet the needs of every client.

What’s driving the renewed interest?

• Client demand: More informed clients are seeking tailored, lasting results

• Hair diversity: Light, fine, or sparse hairs resist Laser/IPL but respond well to electrolysis

• Medical & hormonal cases: Conditions like PCOS, HRT, and menopause-related growth need more than surface solutions

• Skin tone considerations: Electrolysis is safe for all Fitzpatrick types

• Professional reputation: Offering permanent solutions elevates your clinical standing

• Industry shortage: Trained electrologists are in demand—and short supply

Training: What You Need to Know One of the biggest misconceptions in the industry is that you can “pick up” electrolysis in a day.

Electrolysis is not a one-day skill.

It requires in-depth knowledge, precision, and practice. This is a hands-on modality where technique matters—and client safety is paramount.

How to become a Professional Electrologist. Pre-Requisites HLTINF005 – Maintain Infection Prevention for Skin Penetration Treatments. This unit is essential for working safely within skinpenetration frameworks and complying with hygiene and regulatory standards.

The SHBBHRS013 - Provide Hair Reduction Treatments course is a Nationally Recognised unit from the current Diploma of Beauty Therapy. Upon completion, you will receive a Statement of Attainment, granting you national recognition as an Electrologist Practitioner.

As outlined by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), Electrologists must undergo comprehensive training from recognised Australian institutions. This ensures that practitioners possess the knowledge and skills needed to perform Electrolysis safely and effectively.

Self-Paced Online Theory Modules • Dive into the foundations of electrolysis • Study skin anatomy, hair growth cycles, and treatment science • Learn safety protocols and contraindications • Accessible anytime, so you can learn at your own pace

Face-to-Face Practical Training • Intensive inperson practical sessions with live models • Guided by a highly experienced electrologist trainer • Learn correct techniques, probe selection, and effective treatment planning •

Small groups ensure personal feedback and skill development

Self-Paced Practice Hours (Recorded & Reviewed) • Continue refining your skills in your own time • Record your practice treatments and submit them for professional feedback • Receive personalised tips to improve accuracy, consistency, and client safety • Build confidence before treating paying clients

Why Electrolysis Matters More Than Ever Therapists today want to deliver better, lasting outcomes for their clients—not just follow trends. Electrolysis empowers you to: • Work safely and inclusively across all hair and skin types • Treat hormonal growth, post-laser regrowth, and sensitive areas • Offer truly permanent hair removal It’s not a “step back”—it’s a step up in client care.

A Skill That Stands the Test of Time Technology will continue to evolve, but some treatments remain timeless because they work.

Adding electrolysis to your skill set doesn’t mean ditching modern devices—it means offering a complete service. You’ll have the skills and flexibility to meet your clients where they are— and achieve the results they deserve.

Whether you’re just starting out or are ready to deepen your clinical expertise, becoming a trained electrologist is a decision that will serve you, your clients, and your business for years to come.

Karen Geiszler is the founder of KG Beauty & Modality Training and a nationally recognised educator in advanced beauty modalities. With over 35 years of industry experience, Karen is passionate about empowering therapists with real skills that make a lasting difference for their clients. Ready to add Electrolysis to your skill set scan the QR CODE book a training discovery call today. @klgbeautyandmodalitytraining

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Mastering Eyeliner Tattooing: From Fear Freezing To Comfortable Confidence

By Katherine McCann

Eyeliner tattooing—it’s the one service that intimidates so many artists. In fact, I struggled with it more than any other procedure when I first started. The delicate nature of the eyelid, the precision required, and the fear of making a mistake can make eyeliner tattooing feel overwhelming.

But let me tell you— eyeliner is my favourite and once you master it, eyeliner tattooing becomes a game changer. It’s one of the most rewarding treatments you can offer. Not only does it add a whole new dimension to your services, but it also provides clients with a perfect and long-lasting enhancement that can be as subtle, bold, winged, wedged, smoky, or classically stylish. Eyeliner tattoos age beautifully when done correctly and can make a world of difference to someone’s confidence and convenience.

As a cosmetic tattooist, if you’re hesitating to add eyeliner tattooing to your menu, you’re not alone. But the key to success lies in technique, understanding pigment behaviour, and mastering your approach. Here’s a few keep tips that I’ve learned over the years that have taken my eyeliner tattooing from frustrating to flawless.

The Game-Changing Tips for Perfecting Eyeliner Tattooing

1. Consistent Stretch & Stability Are Everything If you’re constantly slipping, adjusting or letting go of your stretch and wiping excessively, you’re wasting valuable time. Keep your stretch comfortable, consistent, and relaxed. Your hands should rest comfortably on (across) the client’s face, don’t be afraid to rest on their body for stability—yes, sometimes I even lean on my clients (with permission, of course!).

2. Work in Small Sections & Focus on the First Pass

The less trauma you cause, the better the healed result. Try to implant as much pigment as possible on your first pass rather than overworking the skin - work in small sections and be meticulously methodical. This keeps the client comfortable and reduces swelling.

3. Don’t Be Afraid of Carbon Pigments

Carbon pigments retain colour incredibly well and implant into the skin far more easily than iron oxides. You absolutely need to understand how they work / and vary from iron oxides, but once you conquer your fear of working with carbon, you’ll start using it for lash enhancements and beyond.

4. Choose the Right Wiping Material

While cotton rounds are a common choice, my personal favourite is baby wipes (Comfy Bots brand) torn in half. They’re ultrasmooth, hypoallergenic, and gentle on the delicate eye area—far better than dry tissues or gauze, in my opinion.

5. Perfect Lines & Finishing Touches Make All the Difference

Whether you’re creating a full winged eyeliner or natural lash enhancement, be sure to ALWAYS create a crisp bottom edge (right up against the waterline) gives a refined, professional look. The same applies to the start and finish tapers—and coverage of the design - precision matters!

6. Use a Dry Tissue to Assist with Stretching

A dry tissue can provide extra grip when stretching the skin, making it easier to maintain control and implant pigment effectively.

7. Feel the Vibration—It’s Your Implantation Indicator

If you don’t feel the vibration in your stretching hand while tattooing, you’re likely not implanting pigment. Adjust your pressure and technique accordingly. You may also hear the machine noise change which is also a great indicator- so start fine tuning your awareness and learn to recognise the feel’.’

8. Soothe & Reduce Swelling at the End

Placing cotton rounds soaked in a mix of witch hazel and water over the eyes at the end of the procedure can be incredibly soothing. It helps significantly calm the skin, reduce swelling, and promotes smoother healing.

9. Keep the Pigment Fresh If You Plan to Rework an Area

If you finish one eye but think you might return to it later, apply a thin layer of balm or glide medium over the liner. This prevents the pigment from drying out and keeps the skin supple for additional work.

10. Troubleshooting When Pigment Won’t Implant

Sometimes, no matter what you do, the pigment just won’t take. In these rare cases, switching to pointillism or a soft tap (manual technique) can help get the colour in with less resistance.

The Confidence Factor

Once you gain confidence in eyeliner tattooing, it opens up a world of possibilities. From barely-there lash enhancements to bold, dramatic wings, the versatility of this technique allows you to tailor results to each client’s preferences and lifestyle. And unlike some other cosmetic tattoo services, eyeliner has lasting value—most clients return thrilled with the results, making it an incredibly rewarding treatment to offer.

If you’ve been hesitant, take it step by step. Focus on mastering your technique, experiment with different approaches, and remind yourself that every skilled eyeliner tattooist started where you are now. It can feel daunting at first, but with practice and the right approach—even if you begin with lash enhancements and gradually build up to more advanced styles—your confidence will grow. In time, eyeliner tattooing won’t just be something you offer; it may become one of your favourite treatments, giving you an edge in both service offerings and industry expertise.

At the end of the day, your experience will shape your client’s experience. If you find yourself holding back, consider investing in further training or mentorship to refine your technique. Mastery comes with experience, but a strong foundation in stretch, safety, pigment implantation, and design principles is essential. The more comfortable and competent you feel, the better the experience will be for both you and your client.

Got eyeliner questions or valuable tips to share? Reach out anytime— I’m always happy to answer questions and exchange ideas. Never stop learning!

Until next edition, happy tattooing!

Kat xo

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The Mistake that’s Sabotaging Your Skin Needling Results.

By Lia Trebilcock

You adjust your depth settings, track pinpoint bleeding, and aim for a controlled response. But are you actually hitting the correct endpoint, or are you needling too deep, missing your target cells, and triggering unnecessary inflammation? This mistake is everywhere.

Skin Needling is one of the most powerful treatments in skin therapy, yet many therapists focus on the wrong clinical outcomes and miss the treatment’s true potential. Depth dictates results; if you’re not working in the right layer, you’re not achieving the best possible outcome for your client. Let’s set the record straight.

Treating Pigmentation? Stop Drawing Blood

When treating pigmentation, blood shouldn’t be on your radar. Pigment sits in the epidermis, the outermost layer of skin, so if you’re treating melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or sun damage, the aim is to stimulate growth factors without compromising the dermis.

The deepest point your needles penetrate should be the Basal Cell Layer. If you’re drawing blood, you’re in the dermis, shifting the skin’s healing focus away from melanocyte regulation and toward dermal repair. Instead of clearing pigmentation, you could create more inflammation, worsen post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and work against your intended results.

An effective epidermal needling treatment requires precision, realtime observation, and a refined technique. When done correctly, the skin releases growth factors exactly where they’re needed to regulate pigmentation: Melanocyte Growth Factors (MGF) to prevent new pigment formation, Keratinocyte Growth Factors (KGF) to support skin cell turnover, and Epidermal Growth Factors (EGF) to accelerate healing while maintaining pigment balance. If your needling is too deep, these growth factors redirect their focus to dermal repair instead, limiting their effectiveness in correcting pigmentation.

Where Most Therapists Go Wrong

To stimulate collagen production, you must target fibroblasts—the cells responsible for producing new collagen and elastin. Most therapists don’t realise that 70% of fibroblasts are in the Papillary Dermis, not the Reticular Dermis.

The Papillary Dermis, the upper layer of the dermis, contains the highest concentration of fibroblasts, meaning this is where the strongest collagen response occurs. If your needling is causing readily visible petechiae or excessive pinpoint bleeding, you’re working too deep, stimulating the Reticular Dermis instead. While fibroblasts exist throughout the dermis, collagen production slows in the deeper layers, meaning you won’t get the same level of collagen stimulation.

For maximum collagen production, needling should create petechiae so small that you’d have to be within 30cm to see them. If you notice pooling or obvious petechiae, you’re needling too deep, reducing your ability to trigger an optimal collagen response.

The Exception to The Rule

The Reticular Dermis is the only place visible petechiae or pooling should be expected, but only when treating scar tissue or excess capillaries. If you’re working on concerns like pigmentation, collagen stimulation, or general skin rejuvenation, deeper is not better. Every needle depth must be intentional and aligned with the desired outcome.

Precision Over Protocols

Getting the right endpoint is not about following a preset depth or generic protocol. It’s about knowing what you’re treating, which layers and cells you need to stimulate and how to adjust your technique in real-time. This level of precision is what separates Skin Needling experts from those simply performing treatments.

Is It Time to Reconsider Your Approach?

If your needling depth isn’t intentional, your results won’t be either. Understanding how skin layers, cellular responses, and growth factors work together will transform your treatment outcomes.

This is exactly what I teach at Skin Education International because when you understand why you’re doing something, not just how, you gain the confidence to treat every skin with absolute precision.

Enrol today at www.skineducationinternational.com @skin_education_international_

of Skin Education International

Lia Trebilcock

Can the Beauty Industry Change the World ? Here’s Why I Believe It Can.

By Robyn McAlpine

For as long as I’ve been in this industry, I’ve heard the same tired narrative: “Beauty is frivolous”, “Beauty is a luxury”, “The industry is superficial”, (to name a few). Yawn.

Anyone who’s worked in the professional beauty space knows that couldn’t be further from the truth, because beauty is not just about looking good; it’s about feeling seen, valued, and empowered. It’s a universal language that connects us, restores confidence, and, in ways we rarely acknowledge, changes lives.

We talk so much about our impact on our clients, their transformations and their glow (inside and out), but how often do we stop and acknowledge what this industry has given us?

Becoming a beauty therapist isn’t “just a job” for many. It’s a lifeline. A career that provides financial security, flexibility, and a pathway to independence. A role that gives us purpose, fulfilment, and the ability to make a tangible difference in someone’s life.

I know this because it changed my life.

Now, through my charity, Transforming Beauty, I’m witnessing firsthand how it can change lives in ways most of us never imagined.

Last year, I travelled to India, stepping inside a shelter home for girls rescued from human trafficking, child labour, and abuse. These were young girls who had suffered unimaginable trauma; stripped of choice, of opportunity, of dignity.

In that shelter, I saw something incredible. Amongst the hardship, there was hope. These girls were rebuilding their lives, finding their strength, and daring to dream about a future they never thought possible. For so many, that future was uncertain—without education, skills, or financial independence, the risk of returning to dangerous circumstances was high.

That’s the thing about beauty: it restores.

Through hands-on training in beauty therapy, Transforming Beauty is giving these girls a skill set they can use to create a career, an income, and most importantly, a choice. We’re teaching them culturally relevant skills like bridal makeup, manicures, pedicures, facials,

and hair removal that will allow them to step into the workforce and build financial stability.

But it’s so much more than that. It’s taking the industry I love and repurposing it to build self-worth, value and confidence through handson skills. Much like when we find confidence in mastering one of our many beauty skills, it is much more than the service skill itself. It’s the new self-belief, the new trust in our own abilities and the realisation that we’re capable of so much more than we thought.

When designing the Transforming Beauty curriculum, I knew it couldn’t be a standard classroom-style learning experience. For many of these girls, formal education has never been part of their reality. Some have never even held a pen.

So, I had to rethink everything.

I developed a hybrid learning system with training manuals written in English and Hindi, ensuring the girls could access the knowledge in their native language, but that still wasn’t enough. For many of them, reading and writing is a new skill, something they have learned since joining the shelter.

That’s where pictorial learning came in—visual training guides so even those with no literacy skills could follow along. No one would be left behind because true empowerment means more than giving someone a skill; it’s about meeting them where they are, in a way they can understand, and helping them rise.

That’s the power of beauty.

We have long measured success in this industry by the transformations we create for our clients, but our purpose is much bigger than that.

The beauty industry is one of the most underestimated vehicles for change because, beyond appearances, it transforms lives, creates careers, builds self-sufficiency, and gives opportunities to people who need it most.

It’s time we stopped seeing beauty as indulgence and started recognising it as the powerful, world-changing force that it is, because this industry? It’s not just skin deep. It’s heart, it’s community, and at its very best, it’s a catalyst for real, meaningful change.

And if that’s not world-changing, I don’t know what is.

Visit robynmcalpine.com/transforming-beauty to learn more. www.skintifix.com @expert_skin_therapist

Hope Beyond Hair Loss: How Therapists Can

Support Clients With Alopecia

Areata.

By Gay Wardle

Alopecia Areata is a condition that affects thousands of people around the world and can be both physically and emotionally challenging. It is classified as an autoimmune disorder, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. This condition does not discriminate and can affect people of any age, gender, or background. It can begin in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood, and while it is more common before the age of 30, it can occur at any stage of life. The hair loss usually occurs in small, round patches on the scalp, but in some cases, it can progress to complete scalp hair loss (known as Alopecia Totalis) or total body hair loss (Alopecia Universalis).

Symptoms often begin with sudden, patchy hair loss on the scalp. The affected areas may be smooth and skin-coloured, with no visible signs of inflammation, making it particularly surprising for individuals when they notice a bald patch appear seemingly overnight. In some cases, the hair may regrow on its own, while in others, it may fall out again or not return at all. The condition can be unpredictable, and its cyclical nature often adds to the emotional strain for those living with it.

The exact cause of Alopecia Areata is still being researched, but it is understood to be primarily autoimmune in nature. Genetics plays a role, especially in those with a family history of autoimmune diseases such as thyroid conditions, vitiligo, or type 1 diabetes. Studies have shown that Alopecia Areata is indeed a genetic condition, with certain immune-related genes being more common in those affected. Environmental triggers such as stress, viral infections, hormonal fluctuations, and even trauma to the skin or scalp can also initiate or exacerbate the condition. Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation are thought to further drive the autoimmune response, leading to continued hair follicle disruption.

What does Alopecia Areata look like? Most commonly, it appears as round or oval patches of hair loss on the scalp. The skin in these areas is usually smooth, and there is no scarring. In more severe cases, the hair loss can spread to other parts of the body, including eyebrows, eyelashes, and limbs. Sometimes, there may be changes in the fingernails, such as pitting or ridges, which can serve as additional indicators of the autoimmune activity within the body.

Living with Alopecia Areata can be deeply emotional. The condition often affects a person’s self-esteem, confidence, and social interactions. Many individuals feel isolated or anxious about their appearance, especially when the hair loss is visible and persistent. For some, it leads to a heightened awareness of their looks and increased concern about how others perceive them. As professionals working in skin and hair health, understanding the psychological impact of this condition is just as important as addressing the physical symptoms.

Skin therapists have a unique and supportive role in the management of Alopecia Areata. While the core treatment of this autoimmune disorder often lies with medical professionals, skin therapists can assist in non-invasive and regenerative treatments that complement medical care and help create an optimal environment for hair regrowth. Through microneedling, the scalp is stimulated to increase blood flow, awaken dormant follicles, and allow better penetration of topical serums. Microneedling also triggers a wound healing response, encouraging the release of growth factors that can help with hair regeneration.

LED light therapy, especially in the red and near-infrared spectrum, is another excellent tool. It works by stimulating the mitochondria in the hair follicle cells, boosting ATP production, reducing inflammation, and enhancing tissue repair. When used consistently, LED therapy can help

calm the autoimmune attack and encourage hair growth by supporting cellular health.

The application of growth serums, stem cell-derived factors, and exosomes after microneedling or LED treatments can significantly enhance outcomes. These advanced ingredients carry regenerative signals that encourage the repair and regeneration of the follicle environment. Exosomes, in particular, are gaining attention for their ability to modulate immune responses and stimulate hair follicle activity at the cellular level.

Clients must also take an active role in their treatment journey. At home, they should use gentle, anti-inflammatory scalp care products that do not strip the natural barrier. A nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet can support overall immune balance, while stress management techniques like mindfulness, meditation, or acupuncture can help minimise flare-ups. Daily use of growth serums and a consistent routine of care will enhance the results achieved in-clinic.

In addition to topical care and professional treatments, certain supplements can be beneficial in supporting the hair growth cycle and immune balance. These may include vitamin D, zinc, biotin, iron (if deficient), and omega-3 fatty acids. Adaptogenic herbs such as ashwagandha may also help to manage cortisol levels and reduce the impact of stress on the body. It is always recommended that clients consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements, particularly if they are on medication or managing other health conditions.

Treatment frequency will vary depending on the severity and progression of the condition, but a general guideline includes LED therapy three to four times per week and microneedling sessions every two to three weeks initially. As progress is observed, the treatment intervals can be adjusted. Skin therapists should regularly assess the scalp’s condition and adapt the plan to the client’s needs.

Ultimately, supporting a client with Alopecia Areata is about more than hair regrowth. It is about restoring hope, confidence, and control. By working collaboratively with medical professionals and incorporating evidencebased aesthetic treatments, skin therapists, nurses, and dermal clinicians can play a powerful role in a client’s physical and emotional healing process.

In summary, Alopecia Areata is an autoimmune condition with complex causes and varying symptoms, but with a compassionate and strategic approach, it can be managed effectively. Therapists can make a meaningful impact through consistent, supportive treatments such as microneedling, LED therapy, and the use of regenerative serums. When paired with proper at-home care and nutritional support, these therapies can improve scalp health, encourage regrowth, and offer clients a renewed sense of confidence in their journey toward recovery. It is about restoring hope, confidence, and control. By working collaboratively with medical professionals and incorporating evidence-based aesthetic treatments, skin therapists, nurses, and dermal clinicians can play a powerful role in a client’s physical and emotional healing process.

www.gwsi.com.au www.skinsuccesscommunity.com

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Comfortel’s electric treatment tables and beauty beds offer smooth, effortless adjustments with medically approved motors. Available in modern colours to suit any space, they’re designed for professionals who value style and performance.

Exo Booster: The Future of Skin Regeneration

Innovation is at the heart of Dermalogica, and Exo Booster marks the next breakthrough in advanced skin renewal. Harnessing cutting-edge exosome technology, this professional-grade booster delivers targeted results— enhancing skin resilience, restoring radiance, and supporting long-term skin health.

What Are Exosomes and Why Do They Matter?

Exosomes are microscopic messengers that play a crucial role in cellular communication. They carry proteins, lipids, and growth factors that signal the skin to repair itself, strengthen its barrier, and maintain a youthful appearance. However, as we age, this communication slows down, leading to fine lines, uneven skin tone, and loss of elasticity.

Traditionally, exosomes have been derived from either human or animal tissue; however, through extensive research and clinical trials, Dermalogica PRO has discovered a breakthrough in exosome technology: vegan exosomes derived from Lactobacillus bacteria. This innovation offers superior efficacy compared to both humanand plant-based exosomes, making it a groundbreaking discovery in professional skincare.

Lactobacillus exosomes are among the most powerful sources for promoting cellular regeneration and vitality. They work alongside Dermalogica’s own Pro-Resolution Technology, which helps optimise skin recovery, reduce visible signs of ageing, and support overall skin longevity. Unlike many traditional skincare ingredients that focus on surface-level hydration or exfoliation, exosomes work at a biological level, enhancing intercellular communication to create long-lasting improvements in skin health.

How Exo Booster Works

Each professional treatment delivers 10 billion skin-rejuvenating exosomes, making Exo Booster one of the most advanced solutions for targeted skin regeneration. It integrates seamlessly into professional treatments and at-home routines, offering key benefits:

• Accelerates Skin Renewal – Enhances cellular communication to speed up repair, minimising fine lines and wrinkles.

• Strengthens the Skin Barrier – Reinforces the skin’s defences, locking in moisture and shielding against environmental stressors.

• Boosts Radiance and Evens Skin Tone – Supports natural skin renewal to improve clarity and reduce dullness.

• Maximises Treatment Results – Lightweight yet powerful, Exo Booster enhances the efficacy of professional treatments and homecare serums.

• Extended Post-Treatment Home Care – Offers six days of post-treatment skin support, compared to just 1.5 days with human-derived exosomes, ensuring sustained repair and renewal.

In addition to its role in skin renewal, Exo Booster also modulates inflammation—a key factor in premature ageing and compromised skin barrier function. Chronic inflammation, often caused by environmental stressors, UV exposure, and pollution, can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin.

By introducing exosomes that actively promote resolution-phase responses, Exo Booster helps interrupt the cycle of inflammation, keeping the skin in an optimal state for repair.

How to Use Exo Booster

In professional treatments, Exo Booster is applied during targeted Dermalogica PRO protocols, accelerating skin regeneration for visible results.

For homecare, apply after cleansing and toning, before layering serums and moisturisers. Dispense a few drops onto clean fingertips and press gently into the skin, focusing on areas of concern.

Suitable for both morning and evening use, Exo Booster pairs well with advanced serums such as Dynamic Skin Retinol Serum or Smart Response Serum for a personalised, results-driven approach to skin health.

What Sets Exo Booster Apart?

Most anti-ageing treatments focus on hydration or surface-level exfoliation. Exo Booster works deeper, directly enhancing the skin’s natural repair and renewal mechanisms.

Its vegan, Lactobacillus-derived exosomes provide longer-lasting effects than human- or plant-based exosomes, offering sustained support for six days post application. This efficiency makes it one of the most powerful and advanced exosome-powered treatments available. Additionally, Exo Booster optimises skin’s ability to respond to external stressors. By reinforcing the skin’s communication network, it enhances its capacity to withstand daily environmental damage. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals with compromised skin barriers, postprocedure recovery needs, or those looking to future-proof their skin against premature ageing.

Another distinguishing factor is its biocompatibility and stability. Human-derived exosomes raise ethical concerns and the risk of immune rejection, while plant-based exosomes often lack the structural components needed to effectively influence human skin cells. In contrast, lactobacillus-derived exosomes are both bioidentical and highly stable, ensuring optimal absorption and efficacy in professional skincare. As commensal bacteria, lactobacilli naturally exist on the skin and in the gut without causing harm—in fact, they play a vital role in maintaining overall health. This makes them the ideal choice for Exo Booster, as the skin and body readily accept them.

The Dermalogica Difference

Exo Booster is free from artificial fragrances, colours, and parabens, staying true to Dermalogica’s commitment to professional-grade skincare. Developed in collaboration with skin therapists and backed by scientific research, it delivers visible, lasting results for all skin types. For those ready to elevate their skincare routine, Exo Booster is the ultimate innovation in skin regeneration.

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

introducing exo booster the world’s first bacterial exosome system, with efficacy that surpasses human exosomes.*

how

exo booster works

Each professional treatment delivers 10 billion skin-rejuvenating exosomes, making Exo Booster one of the most advanced solutions for targeted skin regeneration. It integrates seamlessly into professional treatments and at-home routines, offering key benefits:

Accelerates Skin Renewal – Enhances cellular communication to speed up repair, minimising fine lines and wrinkles.

Strengthens the Skin Barrier – Reinforces the skin’s defences, locking in moisture and shielding against environmental stressors.

Boosts Radiance and Evens Skin Tone – Supports natural skin renewal to improve clarity and reduce dullness.

Maximises Treatment Results – Lightweight yet powerful, Exo Booster enhances the efficacy of professional treatments and homecare serums.

Extended Post-Treatment Home Care – Offers six days of posttreatment skin support, compared to just 1.5 days with humanderived exosomes, ensuring sustained repair and renewal.

In addition to its role in skin renewal, Exo Booster also modulates inflammation—a key factor in premature ageing and compromised skin barrier function. Chronic inflammation, often caused by environmental stressors, UV exposure, and pollution, can lead to the breakdown of collagen and elastin. By introducing exosomes that actively promote resolution-phase responses, Exo Booster helps interrupt the cycle of inflammation, keeping the skin in an optimal state for repair.

Most anti-ageing treatments focus on hydration or surface-level

it’s not just recovery—it’s transformation.

exfoliation. Exo Booster works deeper, directly enhancing the skin’s natural repair and renewal mechanisms. Its vegan, Lactobacillus-derived exosomes provide longer-lasting effects than human- or plant-based exosomes, offering sustained support for six days post application. This efficiency makes it one of the most powerful and advanced exosomepowered treatments available.

The Ultimate Microneedling Device Just Got Better. Now with Seamless Service!

Dermapen 4™ has long been the gold standard in the industry, renowned for its precision, quality, and outstanding results. Now, it’s even better with the introduction of Dp DOCK™. This dynamic duo ensures your clinic can continue to deliver world-class results with unparalleled ease and efficiency. So you can focus on what matters most: your patients.

Tailored Results & Limitless Potential for Your Clinic

As a clinic owner, choosing the Dermapen 4™ offers exceptional return on investment (ROI) potential. Its efficacy in targeting a wide range of skin concerns – from anti-ageing and pigmentation to scars, rosacea, acne, pores, and even hair loss – means you can attract a diverse clientele seeking various outcomes. And support them all with one device!

It’s your all-in-one business model for any skin type or concern. The Dermapen 4™, with our highly sought-after Protocols and specialty microneedling product collection — Dp Dermaceuticals™ — is designed to adapt to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring personalised procedures that deliver visible results. Whether your clients want to reduce fine lines, even out skin tone, or stimulate hair growth, the Dermapen 4™ can handle it all with precision and ease.

Unmatched Speed, Power & Comfort

Experience the fastest, most powerful microneedling device available, ensuring superior results every time. With 1920 rejuvenating microchannels created per second, Dermapen 4™ procedures are completed in record time, and discomfort is minimised for patients. With patented technology, the Dermapen 4 Needle Cartridge® has several advanced technical features that offer more power, speed and precision. Its splayed and scalloped surface glides over the skin. Combined with Dp Dermaceuticals Meso-Glides™, it offers a superior infusion of active ingredients. Testing has shown these micro-channels carry as much as 80% more topical nutrients into patient’s skin. More rejuvenating channels and targeted actives in less time equals better results and more satisfied patients for your clinic.

Advanced Technology

Designed with busy skincare professionals like you in mind, the Dp DOCK and DermapenWorld App get you up and running quickly, without any interruptions. Our new docking station offers a SYNC & GO concept that lets you deliver world-class microneedling procedures and forget about the technology. While, our completely reworked DermapenWorld app architecture upgrade ensures optimal performance and stability, making using the app seamless and efficient.

Dp DOCK

With Dp DOCK, your Dermapen 4 is always synched and ready to go… even for walk-in appointments. This means you can focus more on providing exceptional care to your clients. The Dp DOCK features clear battery level indicators, allowing you to monitor your device at a glance. This ensures your tools are always ready for use, enhancing your operational efficiency and patient satisfaction.

No more worrying about unexpected downtime or battery issues – the Dp DOCK keeps your practice running smoothly.

DermapenWorld App

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When you receive your Dermapen 4, downloading the DermapenWorld App allows for quick, effortless start-up and on-going support. The intuitive interface and helpful features make managing your microneedling practice easier than ever.

Maximise Your ROI Potential with Dermapen 4

The versatility of the Dermapen 4 ensures that you can provide tailored solutions for each patient, enhancing their satisfaction and loyalty.

And the advanced technology of the Dermapen 4 guarantees consistent, fast and reliable performance, eliminating the common downsides of technical malfunctions. This reliability means fewer disruptions in your practice, allowing you to maintain a steady flow of appointments and helping you maximise your revenue.

With the Dermapen 4, you get all the advantages of cuttingedge technology without the headaches of operational issues. Investing in the Dermapen 4 is not just about improving patient outcomes — it’s about boosting your clinic’s efficiency and profitability.

Contact your local distributor or visit our website to learn about becoming an Authorised Treatment Provider. www.dermapenworld.com.au

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Let Us Not Ignore the Elephant in the Room

By Elle Wilson

What shaped my decision to step into a strategy that has proven irresistible to brow clients and, for the beauty studio owner, a powerful differentiator?

Can this same strategy be applied to other treatments and business models? Absolutely.

The Missing Piece in Beauty Business Strategy

Too often, beauty professionals, even those with business coaches, jump straight into tactics. They implement new treatments, push promotions, and focus on client acquisition without considering the foundation that will sustain their business long-term.

As a business coach, strategist, and mentor, I’ve seen this repeatedly. Many beauty professionals lack clarity on what a business model truly is. Their focus is tactical or procedural, critical, yet missing the anchor needed for stability and growth.

Your deliberate and conscious choice of a business model secures the future of your business.

Start with This Fundamental Question

What kind of business model will sustain a beauty professional beyond trends and fads?

The answer was clear. The model had to be:

• Referral-based, driven by exceptional client results.

• A word-of-mouth powerhouse, reducing the need for constant new client acquisition.

• A differentiation strategy that sets the beauty professional apart.

This meant one thing: the skill had to be undeniably superior.

A beauty professional must be unmistakably recognized as the expert in their field, with every touchpoint—online and offline—reinforcing this authority.

They don’t just offer services. They set the standard. So, what is a business model?

A business model determines how a business creates, delivers, and captures value. It’s more than just exchanging services for money, it’s the framework that dictates how clients find you, why they choose you, and how they stay with you.

For beauty professionals, it’s not just about offering a service, it’s about creating a system that builds trust, fosters loyalty, and generates organic referrals.

When building my programs, I had absolute clarity on how every element would work together for lasting success. Now, you have it too.

Longevity Over Trends

Longevity guided every decision I made.

Trends might create hype, but they don’t create sustainability. They come and go. Longevity is built through skill, reputation, and expertise.

Beauty professionals who chase trends often face:

• High client turnover.

• Blending in instead of standing out.

• Constantly chasing new techniques just to stay relevant.

On the other hand, when you prioritize long-term results, health, and expertise, you become the sought-after specialist—the authority clients trust and refer to others.

Expertise and specialization have never been more critical. What truly matters is how your client perceives you—when she has a beauty concern, does she immediately think of you as the expert?

Imagine building this daily. Your mindset shifts. Your decision-making becomes clear. You stop reacting and start leading.

As Steve Jobs famously said, “Think Different.”

Applying This Strategy to Your Business

To build a premium, expert-driven beauty business, ask yourself:

1. What do I want to be known for?

Do you want to be the “go-to” for long-term skin health? The brow specialist who rescues overplucked, microbladed brows? The lash expert who enhances natural beauty without damage? Define your expertise. Own it.

2. Does my current service model support my long-term goals?

Are you constantly chasing new clients, or are you building relationships that generate referrals and repeat business? If clients aren’t sending you new clients, something needs to change.

3. Am I Focusing on Results or Just Following Trends?

Trends create buzz, but they won’t build a sustainable business. A resultsdriven approach, grounded in true expertise, sets you apart and keeps clients coming back.

There’s a vast difference between being just another studio offering beautiful lash sets and being the lash expert in your area—the one clients trust without hesitation. The one they say:

“Don’t go anywhere else—she knows everything about lashes, and she won’t damage them. She’s the expert.”

The Decision to Step Into Longevity

I chose longevity because I saw too many beauty professionals trapped in short-term thinking. Salons offering services that fade out within a year, scrambling for the next “big thing.” Professionals struggling with client retention, unable to build a business that worked for them.

This isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing better. Choosing a model that serves both you and your clients for the long run.

So, as you consider new services for your salon, ask yourself:

Will this build my reputation and authority over time, or is it just another trend?

Because the path to a thriving beauty business isn’t found in what’s popular today—it’s built on the expertise that will still be in demand years from now.

To Your Ongoing Success!

Elle Wilson @ellewilsonofficial

Creating Consultations that are Unique to you, your business and your clients.

By James Vivian

You may disagree with me but when it comes to the hierarchy of what’s the most important part of the work we do as therapists, for me it’s the consultation.

There is of course the act of client care and customer service and whilst this may be why I got into the industry to begin with, it’s the consultations that keep me here and keep me on track.

Recently I have been speaking publicly about consultations and as I’ve been doing so my conversations have been less about ‘these are the questions we ask in our consultations’ and more about ‘this is why we ask these questions in our consultations’.

You see, whilst I can share with others the format, the questions, the style and the nuances that we use in our clinic for our clients, for our treatments and our philosophies, these don’t always translate to other therapists in their treatment room.

And it’s for this reason that the consultations that you are offering in your business must be unique to you, your treatments and your clients. You may already have your consultations perfected. But don’t forget that consultations can always be improved upon and they should evolve alongside our businesses and clients’ needs and wants.

About 7 or 8 years into being in business I sat at my desk one day and thought about all the clients that had come in for a treatment or treatments and not returned. Whilst I adore feedback and go in search of it, I believe it’s mainly the positive feedback you receive as opposed to the negative. So, I decided that clients most probably do not return because of:

- Expense

- Time limitations

- Too much downtime/discomfort

- Simply, they didn’t like me

So here is where I took a good hard look at my consultation and decided to get on the front foot to try to avoid people coming and going and to – and here’s what I think consultations are all about – get on the same page with clients.

Ascertaining information from the consultation process, such as a client is on a budget, or they don’t like doing lots to their skin at home, or that they cannot visit a clinic regularly can certainly help us get on the same page about the extensiveness of their homecare and treatment plans, as will information about whether a client is up for and able to undergo downtime and discomfort.

I will preface this by saying that even though a client may say they are on a budget, or have a preference for a simple routine at home I will still let them know that I will recommend them everything they need to know to get the job done and then it is up to them to share their feelings about it, as after all, getting advice specific to their concerns is why they visited in the first place. It’s a delicate balance of maintaining control and allowing a safe space for them to speak freely. I believe these sorts of conversations, and more, make for much happier and successful long-term relationships.

For us, inclusivity is a core value so we use our consultation form to enquire as to a clients preferred pronouns as well as any accessibly needs, such as physical, emotional or intellectual so that we can best prepare and care for accordingly. For questions like these, it’s less about just asking the question and more about what you do with the information to ensure that your clients feel comfortable not just at their first visit, but throughout their journey. It’s also essential that you don’t gloss over answers like these because you feel uncomfortable to ask. Not mentioning a clients accessibility needs will only make things more uncomfortable down the track e.g. a client recently wrote that they were hearing impaired so I asked them what I could do to ensure they understood me. They simply said please speak slowly and clearly. Done.

And whilst I’m on this topic I want to take a moment to share how important I think it is to know the reason why every single question is asked on a consultation form as there should be an important reason why they exist on your form. It should be as if you could say to each client ‘the reason we ask this question is…’. This will allow your consultation to be more than questions on a page that a client fills out. Make it less of a consultation, and more of a conversation!

Above are a few examples of how previous experiences and current values have shaped the way our consultations are performed.

We often get comments such as ‘That was such a detailed consultation’ or ‘I love that you ask these questions. I’ve never been asked these before’.

So, if you feel that you’re getting to the end of a consultation and still have unanswered questions about how to best create a homecare or treatment plan, or still feel like you haven’t quite worked out who your client is and why they booked in with you, think about the sorts of questions you could ask to get on the same page with them.

It might seem uncomfortable at first but believe me when I say that asking questions in the consultation avoids having to have uncomfortable conversations later on.

Reach out and share with me some of the questions you ask on your consultation form that are unique to your business and your clients.

@jamesvivian

Stand uut from the rest with A Touch Of Luxury .

By Will Fennell

In Europe, the beautiful synergy between skin and body care and wellness philosophies is uplifting, with hydrotherapy at the forefront! If you’re looking for a magical destination to immerse yourself in this rejuvenating experience, I can’t recommend the stunning town of Baden-Baden, Germany, highly enough—it’s my oasis and the proud home of the fabulous Biodroga brand!

Baden-Baden is famous all over the world for its stunning thermal spas, where hydrotherapy is both a practice and a beloved tradition. Here, the focus is on utilising the remarkable healing powers of water to boost our overall well-being.

This charming town boasts two extraordinary public baths, each as large as a shopping centre! The jewel in the crown is Caracalla, where you can luxuriate in an array of thermal pools, indulge in delightful spa services, and unwind in the welcoming saunas or cosy relaxation corners. And the best part? These baths are open to everyone! Just like Bondi Beach serves as a vibrant community hub in Sydney, these thermal baths warmly welcome families, couples, and individuals of all ages to find solace in the soothing waters—even when soft snowflakes dance outside.

• Begin each facial treatment with a cleansing ritual enveloped in a gentle veil of relaxing steam. Allow the soothing vapours to work their magic, melting away stress and promoting tranquillity from the very start.

Hydrotherapy is much more than just relaxation; there’s real science supporting it! Cold water refreshes and boosts circulation, while hot water alleviates tension and aids detoxification. Switching between these temperatures is a fantastic way to enhance your well-being—a lovely way to recharge and renew!

Imagine stepping into saunas that are heated to 65, 75, and 85 degrees! The contrast of warm relaxation, followed by refreshing cold baths and invigorating rolls in the snow, is absolutely revitalising. I can’t recommend this experience enough—it’s lifechanging!

If you find yourself in Germany, don’t miss out on exploring BadenBaden; it offers an uplifting experience that nourishes the spirit and refreshes the mind.

While our clinics might not boast luxurious spa facilities, there are numerous fantastic ways to incorporate wellness treatments into our medical skincare offerings! You can distinguish yourself in the competitive market with a touch of creativity. Here are some ideas I’ve put into practice in our salon that have proven successful:

• Transform your client’s experiences with chemical peels or LED treatments by introducing a luxurious hot footbath paired with a gentle, revitalising salt scrub that awakens their senses and eases tension.

• Indulge your clients by pampering their necks and décolletage with warm, plush towels and nourishing body wraps. This will provide a cocoon of comfort that enhances their overall relaxation.

• Elevate the facial experience by infusing calming chamomile tea bags in the water bowl; the delicate aroma and the gentle warmth or coolness of the towels on their faces will leave your clients utterly pampered.

• Enhance your treatment rooms with sophisticated LED light systems that transition seamlessly from a calming, serene green to a vibrant, energising blue, creating a mesmerising atmosphere that complements each treatment’s restorative effects.

• Provide luxury treatments that can be alternated with results-oriented options. Biodroga offers the exquisite “Luxurious Gold Treatment,” which combines 24K gold with caviar and the most indulgent massage creams and masks. Clients will eagerly anticipate these pampering sessions far more than peels.

These thoughtful touches will make your clients feel genuinely cherished while helping you shine in a competitive market—what a fantastic winwin situation!

Good luck, Will x

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SENSORY. MAKEUP. THE ART

Untamed | Unapologetic | Fearless | Enlightened

By Louise May

Trí Trần has been working in the makeup industry for 15 years and is originally from Vietnam. Back in Vietnam, he owned a makeup school and his own fashion brand—a bridal wear label. He also worked in the entertainment industry, doing makeup for celebrities.

Driven by a strong desire to learn and grow each year, Trí knew around five or six years ago that he needed to improve both his mindset and skills. That’s when he made the decision to study abroad and further advance his craft.

His move to Australia happened quite unexpectedly. While on a holiday trip with a friend, he visited Central and, out of curiosity, began researching makeup schools in Australia. That’s when he came across one and ended up meeting the principal, Ms. Cameron Jane.

They had a conversation, although at the time Trí didn’t speak any English—his friend had to help translate and convey everything. After that meeting, he returned to Vietnam, organised his work and responsibilities, and began studying basic English so he could return to Australia.

By the end of 2019, he made the move to Australia to study. But shortly after his arrival, the COVID pandemic hit, and everything changed. It wasn’t what he had planned or expected. He had to shift his plans almost 100%, and made the decision to stay in Australia.

It’s now been over five years since that choice. Trí has continued working as a makeup artist here and has remained committed to the dream he’s always had—to become an international makeup artist.

To this day, he’s still on that journey, continually striving, putting in the effort, and never giving up on turning that dream into reality.

Editor of Mocha Beauty, Louise May, chats with Trí Trần about his industry journey, and his recent event at the Sydney Opera House.

What do you do in the industry today?

When I came to Australia, after some time, I continued working in makeup, and I started running my own business—Something Beauty House.

Something Beauty House was created two years ago, when I made the

decision to settle down in Australia. Back in Vietnam, I had already built a business of my own. So, following that same path, I wanted to continue growing a business here as well.

With Something Beauty House, I focus on diversity, working with clients from different ethnic backgrounds—and on the high-end, luxury market. For me, I’ve always been drawn to niche markets, the ones that are more challenging to reach, because I love the feeling of conquering what’s difficult.

Another part of this journey is my dream of becoming an international makeup artist. So, while I run my business, I also continue learning and developing my skills, especially in the areas of fashion and editorial. My business mainly specialises in wedding and special occasion makeup, but personally, I’m working hard to build my career as an editorial and fashion makeup artist internationally. And yes, here in Australia, I’m still doing this work every single day.

Can you tell us about your event “Sensory” at the Opera House, what inspired you to put together this event?

The Sensory Shows came to me all of a sudden—like, one day last year, I just woke up and started thinking about what I wanted to do this year. And then it just clicked, I knew exactly the direction I wanted to go.

You know, I have a business—Something Beauty House. We focus on wedding makeup and special occasions. We do makeup for highend clients and for many communities across Australia. Because in Australia, we have so many cultures, and that’s something I really want to focus on.

In my own way, I’ve been doing this for 15 years. Makeup has always been my passion, my dream. I want to become an international makeup artist.

I didn’t know how I could do that. But in Australia, I’ve found exactly where I want to go, and the Sensory Shows—I want to wake up the senses (awaken the senses). That’s how the idea came to me. And then I started organising and doing that show.

Show One (Bridal)

Inspired by Spring in Sydney Her Day. Her Way. A Forward Trending Approach to an Age-Old Tradition

The Sensory Shows isn’t just about makeup. I wanted it to be a makeup performance, because for me, I wanted to do something different. We’re all used to seeing dance shows, concerts, piano performances... but no one really sees makeup as a live performance.

The Sensory Shows uses an editorial fashion view for wedding makeup, street style, street artists, drag queens, glam looks, editorial—all of it. But it’s combined with a high fashion, editorial vibe. For example, in Show One, I focused on bridal makeup—but I gave it an editorial twist. I worked with six models, six skin tones, six different styles. That was the concept, and I brought it to life with creativity.

In Show Two, I was inspired by street artists. I went with a theme of freedom—very bold, very crazy.

Then in Show Three, we bring drag queens on stage and mixed it with high fashion and editorial elements.

Show Four was all about music—we had a singer and a pianist performing live. We played with the theme of black and white, inspired by it. We connected that with Vietnamese music and pop songs—it was all combined.

In Show Five, I went deep with the black and white inspiration again. I created a very editorial, very creative makeup look live on stage, and worked with dancers to bring it all together.

Again, I was inspired by black and white. I created a very editorial, very creative makeup look on stage. I moved together with dancers. I wanted to share the makeup skills on the stage. I wanted to show how, even in a short time, we can create something amazing.

And with my show, I want to bring people more emotion, more feeling, and more experience. Makeup performance come together with fashion, with music—everything come together at once.

You have 5 elements to Sensory; can you tell us about each one and what inspired each look. How did you approach curating the looks for each segment? Did you draw inspiration from any particular eras, cultures, or trends?

With the five shows/performances, it’s because I wanted to bring in the perspective of fashion and editorial into makeup and bring it onto the stage.

For example, in the show one, I was inspired by brides. Australia has so many different cultures—multicultural, multi-ethnic—so there are many different skin tones, many personalities. And for me, a beautiful bride is someone who shows her personality, her uniqueness.

I wanted to bring that element in—and also combine it with fashion and editorial.

Show Two (Urban) Inspired by the sound of Sydney’s streets. Vogue Vandal. Celebrating Sydney Street Statements & Graffiti Glam.

Normally, people see bridal makeup as glam look, or something very traditional. But now, I use the perspective, the view of fashion and editorial for those looks.

For example, for the Black bride, I used fresh flowers, combining them to create accessories and the outfit, transforming her into a mannequin, a doll. I created a very special skin texture, iconic to the world-famous makeup artist Pat McGrath. I used her products to create that plastic, glass-like, mannequin skin effect.

And for other brides, I still kept something classic—like red lips—but through a fashion lens. There was also a makeup layout inspired by East Asian beauty, and other layouts that felt very modern and cool—for example, one bride with short hair where I used colourful elements on her face.

All of it came together. I wanted to use that kind of perspective to create those looks for show one.

Then for the show two, I was inspired by street artists. We usually see that their “sacred space” is on the streets—and I took that idea and brought it into the setting of the Sydney Opera House, but seen through a fashion, editorial lens.

It was expressed in an editorial way, but the materials were very simple, very raw, very everyday like, very “street style”

Then there are the drag queens (show three). We usually see that their “sacred space” is bars and clubs. They often use very colourful makeup and are incredibly creative. I took that inspiration and infused it with fashion to bring it on stage.

But this idea wasn’t just drag queens as we usually see them in bars or clubs—these drag queens were fashion-forward, editorial. I wanted to put them on a runway, at an iconic location.

In show 4 we had musical artists and guests—like a pianist, a singer—and I used really unique elements, like embellishing the eyes with gemstones, creating something cool and very creative for that performance.

Then in show five, I wanted to take the audience through an emotional

journey. It was a live makeup performance on stage. Normally, people rarely get to see makeup done as a performance. They usually see it as a tutorial, a workshop or a masterclass.

But with my show, I wanted them to witness those golden, once-ina-lifetime moments on stage—the movement of brush strokes, of the bodies.

For example, the dancers moved on stage, and the brush strokes moved with them. For this part, I used my techniques to play with the colours, using only two colours—black and white.

These two colours became the main palette, because to me, in colour theory, black and white aren’t just colours. They’re not warm or cool. They’re neutral. They sit in between, balancing hot or cold colours.

To me, I wanted to deliver a message: when working (in the creative industry), we always need to balance between creativity and making money.

And those two colours—black and white—they represent an inner struggle: the battle between good and bad, between negative and positive. But ultimately, we have to understand that both exist together. That’s where I drew the inspiration to create bold, free, and expressive brush strokes. For white, I played with the brush and used brush techniques to form flower petals—creating quick but impactful effects that matched the outfit.

Then for the second layout in that performance, I moved into black. The strokes were more free, more raw—expressing internal conflict. After that, I added touches of white on top.

It was clear that black and white are opposites, but they must go together to enhance one another. It’s the same in makeup. We need contrast to create impact.

In that show five, I used colour contrast to create visual effects on stage.

To me, that makeup moment was the perfect finale of the entire show.

Show Three (LGBTQ).

Inspired By Sydney’s Subculture Fierce & Free. Unapologetically Bold

Five shows, five different spirits. Because in makeup, there are so many styles and layouts. But now I brought them onto one stage—five different styles, all sharing the same point of view: a fashion lens, an editorial view.

For me, The Sensory Shows—when I first came up with this idea of a performance—I didn’t want it to be a regular show. It had to be connected to iconic places, and the artists had to be iconic too. They needed to have their own unique identity.

That’s why I chose the name The Sensory Shows. And the first venue was the iconic Sydney Opera House.

The Sydney Opera House is an iconic venue. How did this opportunity come about, and what does it mean to you to showcase your work on this stage?

By chance, I had worked with pianist Vân Anh Nguyen, and through her I was able to connect with the Opera House to make this show happen, and to me, getting to perform here—it was a milestone. A meaningful mark. Because I was the first makeup artist to do a full makeup performance show in Australia—and at such an iconic location. To me, that’s a huge deal. A very personal and unforgettable milestone. I wanted this show to be a hallmark—a defining moment. And somehow, everything aligned to make it happen: the people, the place, the space, the timing. Nothing felt accidental. It all carried a sense of purpose, a calling. And to me, that holds a deep and powerful meaning.

What do you hope the audience takes away from Sensory?

As I’ve said before, The Sensory Shows is a show created to connect artistic souls—those in makeup, beauty artistry and styling—with one another within the beauty industry. I hope that after the show, people will feel and understand the kind of burning passion a person has when they truly love their craft—what it means to dedicate yourself to the work you love. It also expresses the struggles and challenges of an artist coming from overseas—how they try to find their place in the Australian beauty industry. Because talent alone is not enough. What’s also needed is opportunity. For me, I believe opportunities are all around us—but I don’t wait for them. I create them.

The Sensory Shows is something I created to make that opportunity real—to connect myself with the beauty industry here in Australia. I hope that when people leave the show, they see the limitless creativity of makeup artists. That makeup is not just about foundation and colour—and makeup artists are not just people who apply makeup, but individuals on a mission: to connect, to constantly evolve, to keep refining their craft, and to keep moving forward.

The Sensory Shows hopes that everyone who leaves carries with them a sense of the purity in this craft. The limitless creativity, the burning passion, the bold dreams, and more importantly, the need to turn all of that into reality—with desire, with drive, and with the purest heart.

@tritran_makeup @thesensoryshows @somethingbeautyhouse

Show Four (Traditional + Pop)

Inspired By Sydney’s Magical Melting Pot Symphonique Classic With A Twist

Show Five (Black/White)

Inspired By Contrast Monochrome Mahem

Suzi Dent: A Life of Artistry, Impact & Evolution

By Louise May

From the moment she laid eyes on her mother’s Avon lipstick samples as a child, Suzi Dent was captivated by the magic of makeup. What began as a spark of curiosity in the 1970s has since evolved into a career spanning over four decades—one that’s seen her transform faces, build brands, pioneer bridal beauty, and most recently, lead the way in Australia’s specialist tattoo cover makeup field.

But Suzi’s story is more than just a timeline of professional milestones. It’s a tale of reinvention, resilience, and an unwavering passion for making people feel confident and seen. From working behind the scenes on television and film sets to mentoring women through aging and change, Suzi’s journey is a living example of what’s possible when you follow your calling and commit to growing with your craft.

We sat down with Suzi to talk about where it all began, how she’s built her one-of-a-kind career, and what drives her today.

What first inspired you to explore the world of makeup, and how did that early passion shape your journey?

My love for makeup began in childhood. Growing up in the 1970s, my mother was an Avon Lady, and I was fascinated by the tiny lipstick samples—each one perfectly shaped, beautifully scented, and filled with possibility. I believe my love for the beauty industry was born in those moments.

At fourteen, I discovered the transformative power of mascara. As a natural blonde, my eyelashes were nearly invisible, making me look tired. The first time I applied mascara, it was like my eyes opened to the world— my blue eyes popped, and I felt instantly more confident. That moment sparked a lifelong passion for the power of makeup and its ability to enhance self-esteem.

What happened after high school? Was makeup always the plan?

I had two options when I left school: a hairdressing apprenticeship that paid seventy-five dollars per week, or a bank job paying one hundred and twenty-five dollars per week. My parents insisted I take the bank job. I worked there, but my heart was always in beauty and creativity. When I was twenty, I travelled to England, where my cousin was dating a photographer. Seeing stunning makeup artistry in his professional photos, he told me that being a makeup artist was a real career option. I immediately called my parents and told them I wanted to stay in England and study with the BBC—unless they could find a makeup school in Australia.

My father tracked down the only theatrical makeup school in Australia and New Zealand at the time. He even attended the interview on my behalf, bringing along my awards, ballet achievements, Duke of Edinburgh medals, part-time work history, and more. Thanks to him, I was accepted into the Three Arts Makeup Centre, and I returned to Australia to begin my formal training.

What was that training experience like?

Walking into Three Arts Makeup Centre in 1983 for the first time was pure magic. The smell of stage makeup, the creative energy, and the work displayed on the walls—I knew instantly that I was exactly where I belonged.

The course was intensive and hands-on, covering makeup for theatre, television, film, photography, special effects, and hair and wig work. I worked three jobs to put myself through it and moved to inner-city Sydney to be closer to college. The friends I made there are still some of my closest to this day.

How did your professional career unfold from there?

At twenty-one, I landed a job with Shiseido, becoming the youngest promotional makeup artist in the company. I was responsible for educating customers on skincare and makeup, travelling across New South Wales. My job involved standing in front of the counters with a microphone, demonstrating techniques live. For two and a half years, I held the highest sales figures in the company.

But my heart was always in entertainment. For over four decades now, I’ve built a career that has taken me from television sets to high-profile ad campaigns, from live productions to intimate bridal transformations. I still love what I do today.

Your work as a freelancer is incredibly diverse. What do you love most about it?

The beauty of freelancing is that no two days are ever the same. One day, I’m prepping a celebrity for a commercial, the next I’m glamming up a bride. Then I might be on a film set, creating character transformations. It’s about freedom, adaptability, and constant growth.

You’ve become nationally known for your tattoo cover work. What sets it apart?

For over a decade, I’ve specialised in high-definition, long-lasting, and undetectable tattoo concealment for film, TV, special events, and personal occasions. My process involves neutralising pigment, custom colourmatching, layering, and even painting freckles to recreate skin texture. My results are waterproof, smudge-proof, and transfer-proof for up to two days. Clients include brides, actors, professionals, and even those affected by Queensland’s tattoo entry laws. I’ve expanded across three states and am now training and licensing other artists to meet demand.

What drives you to do this work every day?

Tattoo cover makeup is detailed and technical—it’s about creating a flawless illusion of clean skin. I love the challenge, but most of all, I love the impact. Some people are covering ink that no longer aligns with who they are. Others have cultural or emotional reasons. Helping someone feel confident, respected, and comfortable in their skin—that’s everything.

Let’s talk about your bridal business. You helped shape that space in Australia, right?

Yes. In the 1990s, professional film and TV makeup artists weren’t working in the bridal space. I saw the gap and launched Beautiful Bride Makeup & Hair Service—the first bridal agency in Sydney offering elite artists for weddings. We grew to 25 artists and covered regions from Sydney to the Central Coast and Blue Mountains. I also created “Hairstyling for Makeup Artists,” a course teaching essential skills like blow-drying and upstyling. We won ABIA awards in 1997, 1998, and continued ranking in the Top Three. I sold the business after moving to Queensland but continued bridal work—and won awards there, too.

You’ve also done work in special effects and moulage. Can you share more about that?

I’ve created gunshot wounds, burns, and trauma makeup for police officer training programs. It’s high-pressure, creative work, and I love mentoring new artists in this space.

You were a key witness in the Rolf Harris case. How did that shape your advocacy?

I was the prosecution’s strongest bad-character witness in the 2014 trial. Makeup artists often work in intimate settings with high-profile clients. Professionalism and safety are essential. Speaking out helped shed light on industry power imbalances, and I’ve used my platform since then to push for safer, more respectful work environments.

What does your day-to-day look like now?

Every day is different, but I always start with my health. I’m up at 5:30am walking Sunny, my Groodle, barefoot on the grass for grounding. That’s my thinking time. I focus on nutrition, positive mindset, and gratitude.

Then I move into business—training my tattoo cover team, working with clients, speaking engagements, or expanding my role as a proaging mentor. I’m passionate about helping women over 40 embrace confidence and possibility. There’s nothing anti about aging!

What’s ahead in the next 12 months?

Big things! I’m continuing to expand my tattoo cover business nationwide, developing my own range of airbrush guns, and presenting at all the major beauty expos.

I’m also growing my work as a pro-ager and menopause mentor. I’ll be mentoring beauty professionals who want to integrate longevityfocused skincare into their business, and I recently won the Prestige Business Award Australia for Makeup Artist of the Year, which is such an honour.

Between my creative work, business goals, speaking, and mentoring, life is full—and that’s just how I like it.

@suzihmua

Beyond Bridal: The Many Faces of a Makeup Career

By Brooke Clarke

Let me set the record straight: I am a successful makeup artist, and I don’t do bridal. There, I said it! And guess what? I’ve built an incredible career without having to wake up at 4am, drive 3 hours into the countryside and blindly enter the chaos. While bridal makeup is a fantastic career path for many, and a lot of makeup artists’ “bread and butter”, makeup artistry is so much bigger than wedding bells and ‘I dos.’

With 12 years in the industry, multiple awards, and a thriving makeup studio in the heart of Paddington, Brisbane, I’ve dipped my brushes into nearly every facet of makeup artistry. And let me tell you—there’s a whole world out there beyond bridal. If you’re an aspiring makeup artist, an established pro looking to switch things up, or interested in learning something new, here’s a little insider look at the many paths this incredible industry has to offer.

One piece of advice that has been given to me many times, and never felt right to me, is to ‘find your niche’ and stick to it. But my question is, with such a diverse and wonderful industry, why do I only have to stick to one niche thing? Why can’t I develop my skills and become the best I can in all aspects of makeup? The answer is simple. You can! If you have a spicy brain like me, and love doing something different every single day, then makeup artistry is for you.

Fashion & Editorial: Where Art Meets Avant-Garde

E-Commerce: The Secret Behind Those Flawless Photos

One of my all-time favourite parts of my industry is working in fashion. If you love bold, boundary-pushing looks and the fast-paced energy of runways, fashion makeup is your playground. I’ve worked at Australian Fashion Week, Melbourne fashion week, and on countless fashion photoshoots throughout my career. One minute, you’re painting neon streaks across a model’s face for a high-fashion concept, and the next, you’re creating the ultimate ‘no-makeup makeup’ for a catwalk. Fashion is exciting, creative, and full of high-pressure moments—perfect for artists who love the adrenaline rush.

Online shopping is huge, and every product image you see has a team of professionals behind it—including a makeup artist. E-commerce makeup might not sound as flashy as a magazine cover, but it requires precision. Skin needs to look real, products need to be showcased properly, and everything has to be consistent across hundreds of images. It’s a great way to build steady, well-paying work in the industry while mastering the art of subtle perfection.

Events & Celebrity: Red Carpets and Private Clients

From music videos to VIP events, working with celebrities and private clients is an entirely different ball game. There’s no room for mistakes when someone’s about to step in front of thousands of flashing cameras. I’ve had the pleasure of working with high-profile clients who need to look flawless under every possible lighting condition. The best part? The stories! (But, of course, what happens in the chair stays in the chair!)

Film & TV: Making Magic on Screen

Ever wondered why actors look effortlessly perfect on screen? That’s the work of a skilled makeup artist. Film and TV makeup is all about longevity, HD perfection, and continuity. You might spend hours crafting the same look every single day for weeks. And let’s not forget special effects—making someone look bruised, aged, or even like a creature from another world. It’s a mix of artistry, patience, and technical skill.

Creative & SFX: The Playground for Imagination

Now, this is where my heart truly lies! From avant-garde beauty to out-of-this-world character creations, creative makeup allows for full artistic expression. I’ve painted models from head to toe, created fantasy creatures, and pushed the limits of what’s possible with makeup. Whether it’s for music videos, stage performances, or content creation, this field is for those who love transforming people into living pieces of art.

Body Painting: When Skin Becomes the Canvas

Speaking of transformation—body painting is an art form in itself. I’ve worked on projects where models are turned into living illusions, walking optical tricks, or even painted to blend into landscapes. It takes patience, skill, and an understanding of anatomy, but the final result is always jaw-dropping. If you love the idea of turning people into something extraordinary, body painting is a path worth exploring.

Making It as a Makeup Artist: Choose Your Own Adventure

The beauty of this career is that you don’t have to fit into one box. You can be a hybrid artist, picking and choosing what excites you. One day you’re on set for a fashion shoot, the next, you’re creating a wild body-painting masterpiece, and the day after that, you’re perfecting a celebrity’s glam before a red-carpet event. The possibilities are endless.

If you’re dreaming of a career in makeup artistry, know that there are so many avenues beyond the traditional paths. Follow your passion, experiment, and don’t be afraid to carve out your own unique space in this industry. And remember—you don’t have to do bridal if you don’t want to!

Thanks so much Mocha Beauty readers for listening in, and if you’ve enjoyed this article introducing you to my world, then stay tuned for the next issue as I’ll be diving headfirst into the world of makeup artistry.

@jabbasmakeup

Selling Without The Ick! Mastering Skin Clinic Sales With Heart

By Carly Knowles

So… What’s Your Secret? (And Can I Steal It?) If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me, “How do you get the sales you guys do?” “What’s your secret sauce?” “Is it witchcraft?” I’d have... well, let’s just say I wouldn’t be worried about end-ofmonth targets.

And here’s the honest truth: anyone can do it. Seriously! It’s not some exclusive sales sorcery reserved for unicorn skin therapists or KPI-loving extroverts. Once you get your head around it, it’s actually bloody easy. (Like, “Why didn’t we do this sooner?” kind of easy.)

It wasn’t easy to break it all down. I’m still working on reverse-engineering the magic for a future course or workshop. But today, I want to give you the good stuff: a practical, instantly actionable guide to making sales feel easy, ethical, and fun.

They’re grounded in human decency, excellent service, a bit of behavioural psychology, and, most importantly, a mindset shift around that awkward little word: selling.

Because once you and your team stop seeing it as grubby and start recognising it for what it really is - helping people feel better and get results - you’ll wonder why it ever felt icky in the first place.

Why Are Sales So Important? (Spoiler: They’re Everything)

Let’s break it down.

Say one therapist sells one extra retail product a week - maybe a $20 lip balm or mini cleanser. That’s $1,040 in extra revenue over a year.

Now imagine a team of five doing the same thing. That’s $5,200 in extra sales - from just a tiny tweak in focus.

Now take a higher ticket item, like a $135 serum. One sale per week = $7,020 a year. Multiply that across five therapists and you’ve got $35,100 in revenue, just from one product.

With a 50% margin, that’s $17,550 profit.

What does this tell us?

That a small shift in mindset and behaviour can massively impact your bottom line.

When you focus your team, educate them, and remove the fear around sales, the results are immediate and scalable. Cashflow is king in small business, and this is one of the most accessible, repeatable ways to boost it.

Sales isn’t something we do occasionally. It’s a skill. And one that needs constant practice. If you’re not selling, you’re not growing!

Sales = sustainability. Sales = scalability.

And the best part? It doesn’t have to be awkward or unnatural.

Let’s normalise sales as part of client care and watch your numbers increase.

Let’s Talk About the (Unspoken) Stuff That Gets in the Way: The Objections!!

Every clinic, no matter how incredible, runs into resistance around sales. From the team. From clients. Sometimes, even from ourselves!

Let’s name it, claim it, and reframe it.

1. “It’s Too Expensive” – The Price Objection

Often, this is more about our baggage than the clients bank balance!

We’ve been conditioned to associate “selling” with sleazy. A few bad retail experiences, and suddenly we’re afraid to recommend a $135 serum, even when we know it’ll help.

Here’s the thing: you’re not their financial advisor. You’re their Beauty Therapist/ Dermal Clinician/Skin Boss. Your job is to make educated recommendations. What the client does with that info is up to them. Don’t let your money story dictate their skincare journey.

2. “I Don’t Feel Confident” – The Knowledge Gap Easy fix: train your team. Then train them again.

Product knowledge is the foundation of confident selling. If your team doesn’t know what’s on the shelf, they won’t recommend it. Period.

- Schedule training once or twice a year

- Ask your brands—most offer free education

- Make it fun: demos, role-plays, skin scenarios

- Layer in quality incentives & bonus’ to drive momentum

If you need help creating a plan, reach out to pros (shoutout to Total Coaching Academy—they’re amazing at building custom training and bonus structures).

3. “I Forgot” or “I Was Too Busy” – The Lazy Sales Loop

We don’t want robots, but we do want sales automation in our team’s behaviours.

Not scripted. Not pushy. Just consistent!

If your team starts to slip (it happens!), then it’s time to:

- Reinforce accountability: track performance supportively

- Pump up the energy: rewards, incentives challenges

- Bring the fun back: “10 products = freebie” or “first to target gets a reward”

Sales consistency doesn’t come from pressure, it comes from momentum.

But What If It’s Deeper Than That? (It Usually Is)

You can give your team all the templates and tools, but if they have limiting beliefs around selling, like “It’s pushy,” “I’m not good at it,” “Clients can’t afford it” - those beliefs will show up in their results. Mindset comes first. When you’re focused on your own discomfort, the client can feel it. That’s when sales feel icky - because you’ve made it about you, not them.

Carly Knowles

Real-Life Sales = Real-Life Humans

No one knows your clients better than you do. You’ve got treatment notes, purchase history, preferences…and your intuition!!

Like Mrs. Boerma, who loves rich, lipid-heavy products. I’ll recommend those first, but also gently introduce exfoliation to help shift the dead skin cells clinging on.

Or Mrs. Savage, an unapologetic sun worshipper. She’s getting a crash course on tyrosinase inhibitors and SPF layering whether she asked for it or not.

Sales magic happens when you personalise and meet clients where they’re at, not where a generic script says they should be.

Objections Aren’t Roadblocks—They’re Opportunities

Hesitation isn’t a no, it’s a chance to educate, reframe and support. The better we understand the why behind clients’ objections, the easier we can respond with empathy and clarity. Selling isn’t the enemy. When done well, it’s one of the highest forms of service.

Rewiring the Sales Mindset: Keep It Simple, Keep It Human

Once you’ve worked through the mental gymnastics and fear of selling and helped your team do the same, don’t overcomplicate it! Yes, there’s mountains of research on consumer psychology, behavioural economics, and neuroscience of persuasion but for now, stick with the basics.

Introducing the S.E.L.L. Analogy.

A simple coaching tool to help your team reset their mindset.

S = SHARE

You’re not pushing. You’re sharing. You’ve got something that will help. Why keep it to yourself?

E = ENERGY

Your vibe matters. Clients pick up on your energy in seconds. Are you calm? Confident? Present? Or giving “I’d rather be anywhere else”?

You’re not just making a sale. You’re creating a buy-from environment.

Ever been ignored in a cafe? No eye contact, weird tension, no “hi”? You don’t stay for a second coffee.

Great salespeople meet clients where they are—then lift the vibe. Nervous? Slow it down. Excited? Match it.

This is emotional intelligence in action.

L & L = LISTEN & LEARN

Ask questions. Get curious. Understand their goals, concerns, lifestyle, budget.

Then connect them to something that makes sense for them. That’s not pushy, it’s service.

When you listen, you stop selling and start serving.

Rewiring the Brain, One Interaction at a Time

When you use the S.E.L.L. method, you retrain your brain. You move from anxious or transactional to confident and connected.

And you’re not in your own head anymore, you’re focused on the client, where the attention belongs.

So next time you hesitate to recommend a serum or book the next appointment, remember:

You’re not being pushy.

You’re not being salesy.

You’re simply helping someone get results.

And that, my friend, is the kind of selling we should all feel proud of.

@carlyknowles @totalcoachingacademy_

Why Niching is Non-Negotiable for Educators, Coaches and Creators

By Tamara Reid, Founder of Inside Industry Consulting

The temptation to be a jill-of-all-trades is real - I get it. After all, more offerings mean more clients, right? Wrong. While versatility might seem like the golden egg to success, spreading yourself too thin often results in burnout, half-assed delivery, and, ironically, fewer clients. The secret to building a thriving career as creator or industry influencer in this industry lies in niching - narrowing your focus and becoming the subject matter expert in your area.

When you try to be everything to everyone, your expertise becomes diluted. People of the hair and beauty industry seek out specialists who can provide depth, not breadth. If you’re dabbling in too many areas, it’s difficult to deliver the nuanced insights that set true experts apart.

Your audience wants to know exactly how you can help them. If your message is muddled with offerings that span vastly different areas (say social media and skin needling at the one time), your potential audience won’t see the clear value in your services. Confusion doesn’t sell - it alienates.

Attempting to master multiple disciplines at once requires time, effort, and resources. This inevitably leads to burnout, especially in an industry that demands continuous learning and adaptation. By niching down, you can focus your energy on mastering one area, allowing you to provide unparalleled value.

The Quick Win Myth: Why Experience Isn’t Enough

Our industry is filled with talented individuals with years of experience behind the chair, in clinics, or working in management. While experience in a salon is invaluable, it doesn’t automatically translate into a successful coaching, podcast or education business.

1. Teaching/Leading Requires a Different Skill Set

Just because you’re skilled at your craft doesn’t mean you’re equipped to teach it. Educating others requires a unique blend of communication, patience, and the ability to break down complex ideas into digestible concepts. Learnt and taught are two different things, and regurgitating information you’ve learnt along your career rather than actually teaching doesn’t always land.

2. Experience Isn’t a USP

Having experience is great, but it’s not unique. Thousands of professionals in the industry have a similar resume. Therapist, Manager, BDM, Educator - now you want to make an impact. We’ve seen it before. Ask yourself; what actually makes you different? What can you tangibly offer? A clearly defined niche is what sets you apart and makes your offering irreplaceable.

3. Cash-Driven Careers Rarely Last

The allure of creating a quick cash from podcasting, having an online course, coaching or education often leads to rushed programmes and disjointed offerings. They come out the gate fast and fail even faster. Building a sustainable, reputation-driven career takes time, focus, and genuine passion for serving your niche audience - not just chasing the dollars. When you specialise, you can dive deeper into your area of expertise, positioning yourself as the go-to authority. Your audience are more likely to trust and invest in someone who has an undeniable understanding of their niche.

This niche by the way, attracts a specific audience that resonates with your message and values. This leads to a loyal following that not only buys from you but becomes your biggest advocate. If it’s brand alignment you’re afterbrands want to work with people who their stockists advocate for, which will only come from being the expert in your space. By focusing on a single area of expertise, you can streamline your efforts, refine your offerings, and create a consistent, scalable business model. Instead of juggling multiple hats, you can perfect one and do it exceptionally well. (for example, go all in on laser devices)

Unsure what your niche is?

Reflect on Your Strengths and Passions

Consider where your true expertise lies and what you enjoy teaching or coaching. Your niche should align with your skills and passion - not something you’ve picked up from someone else or have seen trending.

Identify Industry Demand

Research the hair and beauty industry to uncover underserved areas that people are demanding. Filling a gap ensures that you and your services are in demand - but don’t just do it for the sake of!

Know Your Ideal Client

Define the type of audience you want to attract. What are their pain points, and how can you uniquely solve them?

Craft a Clear Message

Develop a brand message that communicates your area and its value. Clarity is key to building trust and attracting your audience.

The professional hair and beauty industry is rich with opportunities for creators, but success requires more than just experience. It demands focus, strategy, and a willingness to narrow your vision. Remember, everyone wants to get rich quick and be famous these days. By embracing the power of a niche, you’ll not only stand out in a crowded market but also create a business that’s impactful, sustainable, and truly fulfilling.

Remember: You can’t be everything to everyone—but you can be everything to someone. Choose your someone wisely.

@insideindustryconsulting

Tamara Reid

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Is ADHD The New Black?!

By Jay Chapman

As I write this article, I’m 38 years old, and I’ve only been officially diagnosed with ADHD for six months. Although, like many of us, I’d selfdiagnosed long before that. When your symptoms are off the charts, it’s pretty bloody obvious.

One thing my psychiatrist told me is that there will come a time when people with neurodiversity’s won’t necessarily need to be labelled as “different.” It’ll be more about identifying where on the spectrum you land because there are pros and cons no matter where that is.

For me, I always knew I was different. I think differently, I’m incredibly creative, I’m brilliant in a crisis, and I have outside the box thinking when it comes to problem solving. My brain is a superpower when it comes to the entrepreneurial side of business.

Staying focused, keeping on task, managing details, following through, and getting bored easily are my main challenges. Very typical! But I’m fortunate to have one trait that helps me power through: if I want something badly enough, I’ll find a way that works for me to achieve it. I’ve been blessed with a good mix!

In both my salon and coaching businesses, I’ve always built a team around me, so I don’t have to do the things I find challenging or simply don’t enjoy. But even that can paint you into a corner. I can do detail-oriented tasks I just need a solid structure to keep referring back to. I work best in short, sharp sprints, and my environment is absolutely vital.

I’ve spent most of my self-employed life trying to create structure in the way I work. I’ve tried it all. Time blocking, default diaries, the Pomodoro technique, and I can’t even tell you how much I’ve spent on planners and diaries I thought were going to change my world!

About three years ago, I decided to create my own range of diaries and planners. All the ones I’d tried had great elements, but none had all the parts I needed and loved in one place.

I also knew that if I created something that worked for me, there would be a gap in the market for other business owners who think and work like I do. My entrepreneurial juices got flowing!

When it comes to managing your time, whether you identify as a creative, a big picture thinker, ADHD, or just someone who struggles to stay on task, you tend to just go go go.

The strategies that have been absolute game changers for me (and are now built into our planner resources) are prepping your week with really clear intention, and reflecting on your week to ensure you achieved what you needed and wanted to.

This stops the drifting cycle. It helps you show up with more intention and reduces self-doubt or loathing because you’re reflecting positively on what you’ve achieved.

Breaking things down into detail is incredibly helpful, especially if, like me, you’ve got shiny object syndrome. It’s easy to stray off task and chase the next dopamine hit. But if your days, weeks, and months are clearly planned before you start, it’s easy to pick back up when you inevitably veer off course.

Planners and organisers can help you become more efficient, but what’s the point of being efficient if you’re working on the wrong things? Before you structure your time, you need to make decisions about what you’ll be working on. Creating effective, repeatable patterns is great, but you need to define your goals first so that your time is spent on tasks that actually move the needle.

You have to make a decision. A decision that regardless of how your brain works, your mental health status, how busy your home life is, or how many kids you’re juggling, you’re going to use this as the reason why you’ll be successful, not the reason why you can’t be.

Cliché, but if I can do it, so can you. A neurodiverse brain is a superpower, and for many people, it’s untapped. Mainstream strategies might not work for you, and that’s OK. It doesn’t mean nothing will work, it just means you haven’t found the right mix yet.

Visit www.yourgrowthcoaches.com.au and look for the “InFlow365” tab to read all about our range of planners.

Breaking New Ground! Shortcuts Launches Game-Changing

Software for Independent Hair and Beauty Professionals.

Shortcuts, the Australian-born global leader in salon software, has reinforced its innovative legacy by hard launching their first salon-specific, free booking platform tailored for independent beauty professionals.

Responding to Australia’s booming freelance economy in hairdressing, barbering and beauty, Shortcuts has leveraged its 30-year heritage to develop Shortcuts Aire, addressing the unique needs of sole traders and microsalons while helping protect both freelancers and space providers from potential contractor compliance issues.

Shortcuts first launched Shortcuts Aire, late last year, and have since further developed the product to include even more features to support independent hair and beauty pro’s, and their small teams. As testament to its success in Australia, Shortcuts Aire is now launching in the UK market, marking a significant expansion for the brand.

Hair and Beauty professionals need 24/7 booking capability to maximise their potential, but using a traditional salon’s booking system can create contractor compliance risks. Meanwhile, existing “free” booking platforms for freelancers often come with hidden costs and lack essential features needed by hair and beauty professionals, from hairdressers to nail artists and brow specialists. Shortcuts Aire offers the most comprehensive free system available, providing independents with a robust online booking and appointment platform that strengthens their business identity without unexpected charges.

“The hair and beauty industry landscape is changing rapidly in Australia, with more professionals seeking flexible work arrangements,” says Joanna Burgess, Co-Founder and Head of Growth at Shortcuts, which is celebrating thirty years of software innovation in the industry.

“Freelancers, solo operators, and micro salon owners deserve more than just a booking system—they need a platform that empowers them to thrive. That’s why we’re launching the most sophisticated, yet effortless, mobile solution, Shortcuts Aire, designed to handle the booking and business side of things, so stylists, barbers, and therapists can focus on what they do best: delivering incredible client experiences. With our Free package, we’re giving independent professionals the scheduling freedom and flexibility they crave, and with our Grow and Pro package options, we’re unlocking even greater power and potential. And this is just the beginning for Aire—our vision is to keep pushing boundaries, bringing groundbreaking innovations that redefine what’s possible for the industry”

Shortcuts Aire runs on a cloud-based system you can access anywhere, with an online booking profile, appointment management, client database, and social media integration at no cost. The platform is simple to set up online. While the basic version is free for individual users, the Aire Pro version supports micro-salons with up to six team members.

The three-tier Shortcut Aire, with entry level completely free, provides a proactive, flexible and professional-facing model that will allow users to flourish in the industry.

Launch your 24/7 online brand now with Shortcuts Aire Head to www.shortcutsaire.com to learn more.

Team Leadership Excellence: Building High-Performing Teams

By Elle Huempel

A strong and cohesive team is the foundation of any successful salon, spa or clinic. Leadership excellence is about developing an environment where trust, respect, and open communication thrive. A high-performing team doesn’t just happen, it’s built through shared values, participation, recognition and accountability.

BUILDING A STRONG TEAM CULTURE

Trust, respect, and open communication are the foundation of a thriving team. Creating an environment where team members feel valued and heard encourages partnerships and strengthens relationships. Regular team check ins and one on one meetings provide opportunities for everyone to share feedback, encouraging transparency and engagement. Leadership meetings should be held consistently, ensuring that outcomes lead to real action and progress.

Consistency is Key!

Establishing shared values and a clear vision helps align your team’s efforts. Defining a mission statement that reflects the salon, spa or clinic’s core values is the guidance for the framework for decisionmaking, team culture, and overall business direction. A strong mission statement provides clarity on expectations and reinforces accountability. It also acts as a constant reminder of the salon’s purpose, helping leaders stay focused on their roles in driving growth, empowering staff and delivering an exceptional client experience. Visual reminders in your team lunchroom can highlight the salon, spa or clinic’s ‘why,’ keeping motivation high and encouraging team members to connect with their purpose. Asking each team member what makes them love where they work and what their own ‘why’ is, can strengthen commitment and enthusiasm.

Encouraging collaboration and team accountability builds a culture of shared responsibility. Implementing a “no-blame” policy where mistakes are seen as learning opportunities rather than failures, promotes a positive workplace environment.

Recognising and celebrating achievements is essential for maintaining morale and motivation. Recognising all wins, both big & small, without the small wins they can’t become big wins!

EMPOWERING LEADERSHIP

Effective leaders empower their teams by leading by example and demonstrating the behaviours they expect from others. Clearly communicating expectations, provides clarity and direction, by stepping back to allow team members to take ownership allows independence. Encouraging independent decision making by asking, “What do you think is the best approach?” helps develop problem solving skills and critical thinking.

Creating a safe space for learning, where decisions are supported even if they are not perfect, encourages continuous growth and confidence. Investing in team development by identifying individual strengths, setting career progression goals, and providing learning opportunities ensures that each team member has the chance to grow and thrive. Holding the team accountable by setting expectations, offering constructive feedback, and reinforcing responsibility for excellence helps maintain high standards and a strong work ethic.

CLIENT RETENTION & REVENUE GROWTH

A motivated and confident team naturally increases retail and service upsells. When clients receive an unforgettable experience from an engaged and passionate team, they are more likely to return and

become loyal to your brand. A positive team environment translates into superior client experiences, reinforcing the salon, spa or clinic’s reputation and financial success. Clients value authenticity, expertise, and personal attention. When team members feel supported and empowered, they naturally engage in more meaningful client interactions, creating an atmosphere of trust and connection.

Training plays a key role in ensuring that the team feel confident recommending products and services that genuinely enhance the client’s experience and results. When a therapist believes in the value of what they are recommending, clients are more likely to take their advice, leading to increased retail sales and service bookings. Consistency in service and experience also strengthens client retention. A well-trained, engaged team ensures that every client visit meets or exceeds expectations. When clients trust that they will receive high quality service every time, they are more likely to return and refer others. Encouraging team members to follow up with clients, provide personalised recommendations, and express genuine appreciation for their loyalty encourages long-term relationships. The stronger these connections, the more likely clients are to become lifelong advocates for your brand.

OWNING SUCCESSES AND CHALLENGES

Leadership requires accountability for both successes and setbacks. Asking your leaders if they would employ themselves can offer valuable self-reflection. Transparency is essential, taking responsibility when something does not go as planned builds trust and integrity. Consistency is just as important, showing up every day with the same level of commitment sets the standard for the team. Self-improvement is a crucial part of leadership, requiring active efforts to seek feedback, refine skills, and grow continuously. Accountability should also be a twoway street. Leaders must create an environment where team members feel comfortable holding them accountable while also feeling empowered to do the same for their colleagues.

I would love to hear from you!

Email admin@ellebusinesscoaching.com.au

or Scan the QR code to be in contact with Elle

Navigating The Fitout Process: Steps from Planning to Execution

By Kelly Cunningham, Your Leasing Co

Designing a space that reflects your brand’s identity is key to setting the stage for success. We have put together some tips as a guide to managing the fitout process and things to consider, from gaining approval through to dismantling at the end of the Lease, as well as capitalising on potential Landlord contributions.

Approval Process

Before diving into design, it’s important to align your fitout plans with your Landlords requirements and the associated building codes. Check with your Landlord to see if they have design guidelines published, which will outline their minimum expectations for design and finishes and may even include contact details for some of their preferred contractors. Next, you should collaborate with a professional designer and fitout contractor who specialises in commercial tenancies. Share the Landlords design guidelines, to ensure your designer is working to the right standards, before submitting your concept plans to your Landlord for consideration. Once your concept is approved, your designer can delve deeply into the full detailed design, including the selection of finishes. The full plans will then also need to be worked through with the Landlord for their approval, prior to any works taking place. This process may involve some back and forth to ensure compliance with the Landlords guidelines, as well as any health and safety regulations or building codes that are relevant.

Building Your Space

Once you have approval from the Landlord and the necessary authorities, it is time to bring your vision to life. Effective project management is crucial, so maintain regular communication with your contractors and conduct frequent site visits to ensure work is progressing according to the approved plans and to the agreed timetable. The Landlord will likely have a Tenancy Co-ordinator as well, who will be doing the same, making sure you are on track from a delivery and timeline perspective.

Documentation is key. Remember to take photos and videos of the space before you start any fitout works, to record the condition and configuration of the tenancy … trust me, you will be grateful later, that you did this!

Also continue to take photos and videos throughout the fitout process to track quality and have a record in case any future disputes arise. Plus, it makes great social media content, bringing your clients on the journey, building anticipation for opening day!

Landlord Contributions

Your Landlords expectation in terms of standard of fitout will be outlined in the design guidelines, particularly if you are in a shopping centre environment. Sometimes this means that the

investment is more significant that you were initially anticipating. It is common for Landlords to contribute towards these fitout works, assisting you to be able to reach the standard that they are seeking for their asset.

Financial assistance from your Landlord in the form of cash contributions or having them complete some works on your behalf, should be negotiated as part of your Lease and agreed before you sign. This way, the terms and conditions surrounding payment of any contribution or the Landlords expectations around what the contribution will be used for, are clearly outlined and there is no confusion down the track.

Landlord contributions are normally paid at the end of the fitout, once everything is complete, including defects. The Landlord wants to make sure that you have built, exactly what you said you were going to build and that the premises now looks just like the plans you had approved earlier, with no shortcuts. Be sure to plan for this, in your cashflow!

Landlords view contributions as an investment in you as a Tenant, as well as an investment in their asset, particularly if your business is expected to boost foot traffic to the area. To strengthen your negotiation position further, demonstrate how your business will positively impact the premises and possibly the surrounding businesses.

Rent Free Fitout Period

When working with your designer and fitout contractor, establish early how long it might take to complete the fitout, as you will more than likely be offered by the Landlord a rent-free fitout period. It is important to ensure that the rent-free fitout period, covers the duration of the

construction period. You don’t want to be paying rent, before you start trading. It is fairly standard for a fitout to take between 4-6 weeks, depending on the size, scale and complexity of the fitout being built.

Dismantling Your Fitout / Making Good

When your Lease term ends, you may be required to return the premises to its original condition and / or configuration, a process known as “make good.” Planning for this should start well in advance of your Lease expiration. Familiarise yourself with the specific make good requirements in your Lease and discuss them with the Landlord, as the Landlord may be willing to reach an agreement on something different to what is in the Lease, depending on their intentions for the space when you are gone. Either way, you should consult with experienced contractors to manage this process. There is where the photos that you took at the start, become critical.

Conclusion

Managing the delivery of a commercial fitout effectively is all about strategic planning, thorough communication and savvy Lease negotiations. By understanding and executing these key elements, you can create an inspiring space that aligns with your business brand and goals, while ensuring a smooth transition out of the space when your Lease expires. Keeping track of details, negotiating terms wisely and maintaining comprehensive documentation will help you bring your ideal space to life with minimal hassle end to end.

How to actually use Instagram Insights to Grow your Salon’s Social Media

By Kayla Zigic

Let’s be honest if you’ve ever tapped that little “Insights” button on Instagram and instantly closed it again… you’re not alone.

Looking at analytics can feel like reading a foreign language for most businesses and salon owners. Between reach, engagement, profile visits, and all those little arrows pointing up and down, it’s enough to make you want to throw your phone into your hot towel cabby and forget social media ever existed.

But here’s the thing: Instagram Insights aren’t just a bunch of confusing numbers. They’re key insights into your online business and little gold nuggets of information that can tell you everything you need to know about what’s working on your social media (and what’s not).

Spoiler alert: the more you do “what’s working,” the better your online presence will be. And if you’re not using them, you’re posting in the dark. Preying something lands.

So let me break it all down - in a salon-friendly way - so you can finally make your content work for you (instead of just crossing your fingers and hoping the algorithm’s in a good mood).

What Are Instagram Insights (And Why Should You Care)?

Instagram Insights is a free tool built right into your business. It shows you how your content is performing, not just how many people liked your post but also how many saw it, saved it, clicked your profile, or tapped the link in your bio after seeing it.

Why does that matter?

Understanding your analytics is how you start making strategic content decisions. It is how you get smarter about your content and start speaking to and attracting the right audience.

The 4 Most Important Metrics for Salons

You don’t need to check everything. But these are the ones I recommend keeping an eye on weekly or monthly:

1. Reach

This tells you how many accounts saw your post. If your reach is consistently dropping, it might be time to freshen up your content pillars. Consider reels and carousels, and select trending audio that resonates with your salon vibe.

2. Engagement

Engagement includes likes, comments, saves, and shares. If people save or share your post, that’s a huge sign that it is valuable. “Shares” tell you that it resonated with your audience enough to share it. “Saves” tell you that your content is important enough to save for later (think educational, tutorial style or how-to content such as “how to layer your skincare”)

3. Profile Activity

This tells you how many people visited your profile after seeing your post and whether they clicked your website or booking link. If a post gets great reach but no profile clicks, your caption may not prompt action or you are not using the correct call to action to achieve your desired goal.

4. Stories Insights

Stories give you real-time insights into your engaged followers. Look at:

Forward Taps: They’re moving through but still watching - that’s good. Back Taps: They wanted to rewatch - even better!

Exits or Skips: They weren’t interested - time to mix it up. Polls, question boxes, and emoji stickers are great ways to keep your audience engaged. Also, don’t be afraid to discuss personal topics and ask your audience for advice. They want to feel like they are a part of a community.

What About Meta Business Suite?

If you manage your salon’s Facebook and Instagram together, Meta Business Suite gives you deeper analytics in one place - perfect for tracking trends over time.

Inside Meta, you can see: Your best-performing posts over 7, 28 or 90 days When your followers are most active (so you know when to post)

Your audience breakdown (age, location, gender — yes, even if you think you know it)

Use this to make sure you’re speaking your dream client’s language. If 80% of your audience is women aged 25–44, your content tone and visuals should reflect that.

This information can be found in your Meta Business Account under “Insights” Please reach out to me @socialsforsalons if you have any problems locating your insights.

So… What next?

It’s one thing to read your insights - but what really matters is how you respond to them.

Here’s how to turn insights into action: Double down on what’s working.

If your before-and-after videos are reaching a large audience, make more. If your “skincare tip of the week” is always saved, keep that going. Experiment with underperforming posts. Don’t just delete them - tweak the hook, caption, or timing and try again.

Use insights to guide your content plan.

Look back at your monthly data and use it to decide what to post more of next month.

You don’t need to be a data nerd or spend hours in spreadsheets to grow on Instagram, but you do need to understand your numbers enough to make informed, intentional choices.

Because every time you post, you’re either strengthening or weakening your connection with your audience. And your insights? They’re your cheat sheet to doing more of what works and less of what doesn’t.

So next time you feel stuck or start comparing your engagement to another salon- stop, breathe, and open up your Insights. Your answers are already there.

You’ve got this beauty

Kayla x @socialsforsalons

Kayla Zigic

Why your Tone Of Voice isn’t just how you sound, It’s How You Make People Feel .

By Rachel Medlock

Let me tell you about a discovery call I had a few years back…

I remember it well. A brand approached me to write copy for them, asking for a tone of voice similar to that of a popular beauty company known for its unconventional style.

I quickly explained to them that imitating another brand’s tone wasn’t the key to standing out. Sure, it’s tempting to mimic what’s working for a big name, but copying someone else’s tone is like using someone else’s skincare routine. It doesn’t suit you, and it won’t help you glow.

What I told them was that tone of voice is all about identity. It’s about defining who you are, who you sound like, and, just as importantly, who you don’t sound like. There’s a huge misconception that every tone of voice has to be quirky. Much like humans, tone of voices can be assertive, friendly, clinical, casual, formal, authoritative, or even flat-out bonkers, but no matter what, it has to feel like you and connect with your audience.

When we nailed their voice, it was real and relatable but still an expert. It wasn’t about being quirky for the sake of it—it was about bringing the right level of personality that spoke to their audience, and that’s exactly what made it work. Their audience responded because they felt something.

Why Tone of Voice Matters

We’ve all had this experience. An interaction with a brand whose tone stays with you, even when you don’t need their product. The ones who leave an emotional impact, even if you don’t buy anything. That’s what a strong tone of voice does—it builds connection.

Tone of voice is the heart of your brand’s messaging. It’s about how your audience feels when they hear from you. Everything clicks when you know exactly who you are and who you’re speaking to. You go from merely communicating to connecting, resonating with your dream client’s needs, desires, and emotions. This builds trust, sparks engagement, and creates loyal clients who return not just because of your treatments or products but because they feel like they know you.

How To Find Your Voice

In my experience, finding your brand’s voice often starts with figuring out what isn’t working. Sometimes, it’s easier to spot when something doesn’t resonate with your audience than to find the perfect fit. If you’ve been reading your copy and it just doesn’t ‘click,’ you’re already closer to your tone than you think. That “off” feeling can guide you towards what you do want to sound like.

So, when you start experimenting with your brand’s voice, take note of what isn’t working. Ask yourself: Does this sound like us? Does this feel true to who we are? The process of elimination can be just as revealing as trying to get it right on the first go.

If you feel lost or stuck, I’m here to help. I created The Write Treatment, a DIY, AI-powered tool for helping beauty brands clarify their tone of voice. It walks you through the questions I ask my clients to define their voice, so you can get your brand’s tone on track without the cost of hiring a copywriter.

The Write Treatment will save you time, energy, and yes, money. Plus, when you’ve nailed your tone of voice, everything else in your marketing, from social media and emails to your website, starts to click into place.

So, what are you waiting for? Your brand’s voice is the backbone of your business. When you get it right, it’s impossible to ignore.

Visit www.rachelmedlockcopywriting.com.au to

Rachel Medlock

Maintaining your you-ness in a Robot World.

By Keira Maloney – The Salon Photographer

Try this: Ask ChatGPT, “Write a social media caption that will make a potential client book an appointment today. It should showcase expertise, warmth, and the experience of a visit to my clinic.”

Read what it spits out. It’ll probably be smooth, engaging, well-structured, and maybe even bang on the brief. But does it actually sound like you? Does it capture how you welcome your clients, the trust and reassurance you offer, or the personalised touch that makes your treatments unique? AI can automate, but it can’t replace real human connection.

As a beauty and aesthetics photographer (ahem, The Salon Photographer), I had a moment where I questioned whether AI could replace me. AI-generated images? Perfect. Almost too perfect. I won’t lie, I looked at them and thought, “Oh crap, is this going to make me redundant?”

But something felt off. AI-generated photos lacked the soul I capture in real clinics. They didn’t have the warmth, movement, or beautiful imperfections that make an image feel real. The glow of natural light bouncing off freshly cleansed skin, the quiet moment of a client relaxing mid-treatment, the little details—like a therapist’s hands in action or the comforting touch of an LED mask—AI images miss all that. They look like stock photos; technically stunning but emotionally flat.

And here’s the thing: clients don’t book aesthetic treatments just for results. They come for the experience. They trust you to assess their skin, tweak the treatment plan in real time, and provide personalised care. AI-generated content can’t replicate that level of connection.

It’s also interesting that social media platforms now require AI-generated content to be labelled. Why? Because people can’t always tell the difference! Yet, the more AI content floods our feeds, the more people crave what’s real.

That’s why I love seeing raw, behind-the-scenes beauty content—like an unpolished video of a treatment in action, a slightly off-centre shot of a client’s post-facial glow, a real before-and-after with no smoothing filters. These things remind me that a real person created them. Imperfections aren’t flaws; they’re proof of human touch, which is highly valued in 2025.

AI isn’t the enemy. It’s a powerful tool for brainstorming, quick mockups, or placeholders, but if you rely on it too much, you risk losing the raw, human element that makes your work unique.

So how do we stay authentic in a fast-paced, AI-driven world?

- Use authentic imagery whenever possible. Your clients want to see you and your work, not an AI-generated, poreless, plastic-smooth version of it.

- Show the process, not just the result. People connect with energy, trustbuilding consultations, and hands-in-action treatments.

- Use AI to support, not replace, ideas. If it helps to refine them, great! But make sure the final product has your creative stamp.

- Embrace the mess. A perfectly curated, sterile feed can feel soulless. A bit of behind-the-scenes reality makes it human.

- Back yourself. Not everyone will love your raw, authentic work, and that’s okay. The right people will.

Creativity isn’t about automation. It’s about instinct, experience, and human connection. AI can generate all sorts of things, but it can’t replace you. The way you see skin health, client confidence, and transformation is what makes your work stand out.

In a world drowning in AI-generated content, real human artistry will always win. Trust your talent, your ideas, and your vision. Because no bot can do you, boo.

www.thesalonphotographer.com @the_salonphotographer

Keira

Maloney

BEAUTY shop

PHYTO THERAPY “Take A Breath” Therapy Oil By BIODROGA

Discover the nurturing benefits of BIODROGA Organic’s PHYTO THERAPY “Take A Breath” Therapy Oil. This oil features a unique 5-fold phyto complex made up of nettle, chamomile, lady’s mantle, rose, and hyssop. This blend promotes radiant skin while nourishing it with jojoba seed oil and squalene. It enhances moisture retention, stabilises lipid levels, and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, revitalising your skin.

biodroga.com.au

Digital Facial Steamer with Ozone By Comfortel

Delivers consistent steam with adjustable direction, a digital timer, and automatic shut-off, so you can focus on treatments without the hassle. Includes pedestal with wheels. LED Magnifying Lamp Stand by Comfortel

A 3.5x diopter lens with 56 non-glare LED lights ensures you see every detail with absolute clarity. Designed with a stable base with wheels for effortless positioning. Hot Towel Cabinet by Comfortel Keep towels warm, fresh, and hygienic with the Mini(perfect for small spaces) and the 18L White, featuring UV sterilization and an independent ozone function. Available in two sizes to suit your salon needs www.comfortel.com.au

Dilo Restorative Collection Newly formulated by Pure Fiji

• Dilo Restorative Body Gel A cooling gel infused with Dilo Oil, Aloe Vera, Hyaluronic Acid, and Hibiscus to soothe irritation, sunburn, and dryness while delivering 24-hour hydration. Fortified with Moringa to strengthen the skin barrier.

• Dilo Restorative Body Butter A rich butter packed with Dilo, Coconut, Macadamia, and Sikeci Oils for deep nourishment. Hyaluronic Acid, Cacao Butter, Vitamin E, Peppermint Oil, and Passionflower Extract to hydrate, repair, and restore.

• Pure Fiji Dilo Restorative Body Oil A lightweight, fastabsorbing oil with Dilo and Virgin Coconut Oils to strengthen the skin barrier and replenish moisture for a smooth, radiant glow.

• Pure Fiji Dilo Restorative Body Mist A refreshing mist infused with Aloe Vera, Dilo Hydrosol, and seven forms of Hyaluronic Acid to soothe, hydrate, and rebalance sundamaged or irritated skin while enhancing elasticity and smoothness. www.probeautysolutions.com.au

EXION™ CLEAR RF By BTL

BTL is proud to announce the launch of Clear RF in Australia and New Zealand. The latest innovation for the EXION platform redefines the standards of skin resurfacing. This breakthrough skin technology with precise energy delivery control, ensures a brighter, more even-toned look with minimal downtime. Designed to target a wide range of skin concerns including brown and red spots, skin texture and uneven skin tone. www.btlaesthetics.com.au

Are you in Alignment with your Values ?

By Angeli Marie Shaw

Being in alignment with your values means that your decisions, actions and overall behaviour consistently reflect what you consider to be the most important and meaningful in your life. Essentially, you’re living according to your core principles and beliefs. When you’re in alignment, your daily choices line up with your values, leading to a feeling of fulfilment and a strong sense of authenticity. And it feels good!

An important part of this process is getting clear on what your values actually are! Values are the beliefs and principles that guide your words, actions and decisions. Think of them like your moral compass, acting as your guide. Values apply in both life and business, with your personal values being more predominant, therefore influencing the formation of your work ones.

Now ask yourself, are you being, doing and saying what’s in alignment with your own values?

To determine this, you need to reflect on whether your daily actions and decisions consistently reflect the values you hold personally, ensuring that your conduct aligns with your personal ethics and beliefs.

Not sure or don’t know where to start? Consider these

- What are your personal values? Clearly define what is most important to you in your personal and professional life. Examples of these may be honesty, integrity, sustainability, social responsibility, teamwork or innovation.

- Analyse your business practices. Look at your daily work choices, interactions with your team mates and customers and your decision-making processes to see if they align with your stated values.

- Evaluate workplace culture. Assess whether your business values and mission statement resonate with your personal values. Don’t have a mission statement? CREATE ONE! This provides a summary to staff as well as an opportunity to share with your clients what you’re all about.

Are you clear now? Or are you unsure? Here are some signs that you’re in alignment

- Feeling fulfilled and motivated in your life and work. Your actions align with your values, and you feel a sense of purpose and satisfaction in what you do.

- Your making ethical decisions consistently. You prioritize doing the right thing even when it’s challenging.

- You openly communicate your values and feel comfortable discussing your values with family, friends or staff without fear of repercussions.

If you’re still unsure, you may be misaligned. Here are some signs

- You’re experiencing internal conflict and stress. Your actions may be contradicting your values, which creates feelings of guilt or discomfort

- You’re compromising your principles. You feel pressured to make decisions that go against your ethical standards.

- You’re disengaged from work. You’re having feelings of disconnection due to a lack of living by your values

So, what can you do if you feel you’re not aligned? Start by having open conversations. Discuss with those you trust in your personal life, or even your team so you can explore potential solutions or adjustments that you can make. This opens up opportunities for change! Even if significant changes are not possible in the short term, consider small steps, they will all lead to the same destination, regardless how long it takes.

To reiterate, when our actions and behaviour support whats important to us, we are focused on our values and living in alignment. Get clear, be consistent and really focus on whats important to you so you can then take the steps that you need to support your choices. Reaffirm what you strongly believe in, prioritise top values and remember, you can always change your mind, after all, much like most things in life, it’s a work in progress, as are you.

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.

“OPENING THE PAGES

LOUISE