Micro-Certification In Aesthetics

By Nancy Abdou

Being a ‘good’ therapist is easy, but being an exceptional therapist? One that stands out from the others, whom clients actively seek out, because they’re ahead of the rest when it comes to delivering outstanding treatments and results, have impressive knowledge through continual education and training, and a true passion to change their clients lives through their skin. That’s the difference between ‘good’ & ‘exceptional’ and it takes dedication and commitment.

Whether it is certification and qualification in Beauty Therapy, Dermal Science or Cosmetic Nursing – learning and development doesn’t stop upon graduation and entering in the aesthetics industry. Protocols, technology and techniques are forever evolving and in a continuous state of fluidity and so too, are skills and knowledge.

The same is true for device training, often provided by distributors or manufacturers, where the focus is on device familiarisation, it simply isn’t enough to know how to press a few buttons, turn a device on and work within safe parameters, anyone can do that.

In an industry that is both competitive, where clients are more savvy, hungry for superior, quicker results – continual education and knowledge is what separates a passionate, driven and thriving therapist or clinician from one who is merely surviving, performing stock standard treatments day in, day out.

Any therapist or clinician, in any stage of their professional career can gain from narrowed educational micro-credential courses to keep abreast of changes, helping them remain at the forefront of the industry and continuing to develop their abilities and knowledge.

Upon purchasing a device, the manufacturer will generally run over the surface level science behind the technology, as well as ensuring the operator understands basic treatment protocols and parameters, along with the user interface of that particular device. Typically that is where the training ends, a limited number of manufacturers offer further training or workshops for advanced training or ongoing education.

On the other hand, attending bespoke microcertification courses such as The Australian Dermal and Laser Institute’s who’s vision & purpose is: ‘Raising the standard of skin technology education and bridging the gap between skin, beauty, dermal & health care practitioners, ensuring an integrated approach.’

This kind of micro accreditation offers not only far more in-depth knowledge surrounding the technology, but also:

· The science behind the technology

· How the device actually interacts with the skin

· Using advanced settings and safely pushing boundaries

· Combining and layering treatments with other technologies

· Providing excellent consultations

· Effective skin prepping

· Treatment packages

· The client’s “skin journey”

Let’s take a closer look at the above and why they’re so vital:

Having a sound understanding of the science of the device, also ensures the therapist is aware of the impact it has on the body and skin, both short and long term, in addition to fully understanding how the device interacts with the skin and what the device and the skin’s limitations are. From there, the operator has the confidence to manipulate settings and parameters in order to safely push boundaries, to deliver enhanced results.

Micro-certification also offers the knowledge, skill and confidence required for a therapist to combine modalities and treatments, to deliver optimal results, with fewer treatments, (of course always while safety protocols and procedures are observed and met). A savvy client who has been scouring through the net, as well as having treatments in various clinics, would have a fair idea of what constitutes an excellent therapist, treatment and results.

However, before pushing boundaries, providing an in depth and thorough consultation is vital. Not only does this ensure the client is suitable for the treatment, along with assessing both their medical history and expectations – but also takes into consideration the client’s diet, lifestyle, supplementation and skin prepping, which includes appropriate skin care and other in-clinic treatments to: 1. Ensure the skin’s barrier is not impaired 2. Reduce risks and downtime 3. Enhance outcomes via optimising cell functionality 4. Fight free radicals that are created due to treatments

Creating a long-term partnership with the client along, what I call the “Skin Journey”, is very rewarding, since both therapist and client are committed to making positive skin changes, which has an impact on the clients confidence and life, after all it’s not “beauty therapy” – its “confidence therapy”. An exceptional therapist has the ability to hold their client’s hand, along that journey over the years, as their skin matures and their skin’s needs, over time change.

Similarly, micro-accreditation ensures the therapist is keeping abreast of changes in the industry, as well as new technology advancements - education is a life-long journey, that empowers, motivates and inspires us to be the best version of ourselves – no matter what adversity we are faced with.

Nancy Abdou is the Founder, CEO and Clinic Educator at The Australian Dermal and Laser Institute. Nancy is also the winner of the the 2021 ABIA for Educator of the Year. Learn more about Nancy and her award winning education at www.dermalandlaser.com.au