Professional Beauty May-June 2023

THE NATURAL Approach

HOW TO GREEN YOUR BRAND

BUSINESS INNOVATIONS

Skincare leaders share their advice

PÂTE GRISE

CLINICALLY TESTED

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BEAUTY & SPA INSIDERS

Monday 16 October 2023 Pier One, Sydney Harbour

Don’t miss Australia’s Premier Beauty and Medi-aesthetics Event

The fourth installment is returning to Sydney.

BEAUTY & SPA Insiders is our celebration of the Australian beauty and medi-aesthetics industry – showcasing talent, innovation and creativity.

Join us for presentations and panels from industry leaders and get ready to explore the latest trends, technologies, and news from well-loved and up and coming brands.

New to the 2023 line-up will be masterclasses, business coaching, and treatment demos.

Designed to inspire, BEAUTY & SPA Insiders also provides the opportunity to connect and celebrate with like-minded professionals from across the industry.

Early Bird tickets on sale now at www.beautyandspainsiders.com.au

Limited tickets available. Don’t miss out.

GEORGINA MARIOUKLAS CEO, beyond PAYMENTS

MICHELLE REEVE Founder & Formulator, Waterlily Skincare

DR IAN CHINSEE Cosmetic Surgeon, Director Inigo Cosmetic

DR TANIA ROMANO Head of Medical & Education, SkinCeuticals

FIONA TUCK Author, Nutritional Medicine Practitioner and Skin Expert

TERRI VINSON Founder, Synergie Skin

JESSIKA BRIGGINSHAW Founder, Brow Squad

DANIEL DICKSON Former DMK CEO,

PETA FRIEND Manager & Operator, Will&Peta Skin Clinic

KELLY GEORGE Founder, Kelly George Aesthetics

DR KATE JAMESON Founder & Medical Director, Youth Lab

KATH MERLO Co-Founder, KAILO Medispa

ISABELLA LONERAGAN Founder, IL Skin

DR DONNA MARÇAL Co-Founder, Dermatonics

EMMA PAXTON Founder & CEO, PAX Polish

DR TONI PIKOOS Clinical Psychologist & Co-Founder, ReadyMind

PUBLISHER

BHA MEDIA

EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN

Simon Grover

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Craig Hawtin-Butcher chawtinbutcher@intermedia.com.au

EDITOR

Anita Quade aquade@intermedia.com.au

NATIONAL ADVERTISING MANAGER

Julie Davidson jdavidson@intermedia.com.au

ART DIRECTOR

Ryan Vizcarra ryanv@intermedia.com.au

BEAUTY EDITOR

Ariana Pezeshki apezeshki@intermedia.com.au

ONLINE & SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR

Hannah Gay hgay@intermedia.com.au

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Jacqui Cooper

CONTRIBUTOR

Tazlin Cantrill

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WELCOME TO the May/June issue – it’s been a busy couple of months and as always there are new launches from skincare and makeup brands popping up weekly, events are back in full swing and optimism in the market seems at an all time high. With this in mind this edition we opted to chat to trailblazers in the industry about their latest Business Innovations – what they have in the pipeline, how they have overcome challenges and what they have planned for the future. Many leaders ranging from small start up companies to innovative technology companies share what they are offering in the market to their clients to help make their business life easier. Turn to page 46 to find out their advice.

Our cover story this issue is dedicated to device company InMODE who is leading the way with game-changing technology that are providing salons with great ROI and producing incredible results. We chat to Dr Ian Chinsee who has seen the profound effects utlising Morpheus8 and Lumecca as part of the treatment program for Scar Revision at Brisbane based Inigo Cosmetic. Read the details on page 32.

Sustainability is always on the checklist for brands but it isn’t always easy to tick the green box. Innovative business owners share simple changes they have made to help save the planet. Check out their great ideas in our feature How To Green Your Brand on page 36.

You will also find the usual wonderful inspiration for all this season’s makeup, beauty and the salon must-haves! Don’t forget also to check out www.beautyandspainsiders.com.au to find out all the details for our exciting annual BEAUTY & SPA Insiders event on Monday, 16 October. Hope you enjoy the issue!

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CONTRIBUTORS

Jeannie Bourke

This inspirational owner of Venustus in Paddington shares with us her inspiring journey and passion for the industry. Known for choreographing each and every treatment for clients and her amazing record at retaining staff she shares the highs and lows of the industry and her next exciting installment - opening an incredible new salon on Oxford Street. She also developed her own skincare line after a journey through the French countryside.

“I was driving through France, discovering aromatherapy companies on the land, creating blends, in that moment I knew I could design and make my own Venustus skincare, one by one.” Read her story on page 68.

Karen Murrell

This New Zealand-based entrepreneur is known for her eponymous lipstick brand. She is recognised for producing natural, cruelty-free lipsticks that are made from high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients and her heartfelt approach in the sustainable beauty landscape.

“Success is a strange word. Your professional life or business is never linear. There are so many factors that can affect our brands now more than ever before. Experience or time in our craft teaches us how to manoeuvre the good times and the unexpected things that pop up. I really enjoy my career, if you had said to me as a teen I was going to be doing this now as a 49-year-old woman I am not sure I would have believed you.” Turn to page 64.

Briony Kennedy

Founder of Adorn Cosmetics and be. Health talks about her brand ethos, encouraging kindness to people, the planet, and animals. We know that Eco-friendly brands are here to stay and Briony is passionate about the importance of reducing waste.

“Reducing waste and minimising your carbon footprint is achievable. It merely takes effort and thought. Packaging from tree-based products consumes 18 million acres of forest every year. Such large-scale industrial deforestation has contributed significantly to global warming. Beauty packaging amounts to 120 billion units every year. That includes plastic, paper, glass, and metals, all of which end up in landfill year after year.” Read her story on page 74.

This publication is published by BHA MEDIA, a division of The Intermedia Group Pty Ltd (the “Publisher”). Materials in this publication have been created by a variety of different entities and, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher accepts no liability for materials created by others. All materials should be considered protected by Australian and international intellectual property laws. Unless you are authorised by law or the copyright owner to do so, you may not copy any of the materials. The mention of a product or service, person or company in this publication does not indicate the Publisher’s endorsement. The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily represent the opinion of the Publisher, its agents, company officers or employees. Any use of the information contained in this publication is at the sole risk of the person using that information. The user should make independent enquiries as to the accuracy of the information before relying on that information. All express or implied terms, conditions, warranties, statements, assurances and representations in relation to the Publisher, its publications and its services are expressly excluded save for those conditions and warranties which must be implied under the laws of any State of Australia or the provisions of Division 2 of Part V of the Trade Practices Act 1974 and any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof. To the extent permitted by law, the Publisher will not be liable for any damages including special, exemplary, punitive or consequential damages (including but not limited to economic loss or loss of profit or revenue or loss of opportunity) or indirect loss or damage of any kind arising in contract, tort or otherwise, even if advised of the possibility of such loss of profits or damages. While we use our best endeavours to ensure accuracy of the materials we create, to the extent permitted by law, the Publisher excludes all liability for loss resulting from any inaccuracies or false or misleading statements that may appear in this publication.

ON OUR

FAST FACT:

According to research conducted by Phorest Salon Software, 84% of clients follow their regular beauty salon or therapist on social media.

TOUCH UP KIT (T.U.K) TOUCHES DOWN

T.U.K has arrived, launching a product line exclusively with the beauty therapist and makeup artist in mind. Founded by experienced MUAs Danielle Gardiner and Antoinette Bekos, T.U.K is “the makeup you stock when you don’t want to stock makeup.” Palettes are available in creamy shades suited to Fitzpatrick’s I through V, and contain magnetic refills compact enough for on-the-go use. Opening orders are accessible, at below $2000 each. Contact Reveal on 0421 103 738.

INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: ASTAXANTHIN

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid often used as a dietary supplement to aid immunity and skin health. When ingested, the powerful ingredient is known to reduce moisture loss and smoothen skin texture. Try in partnership with your daily dose of marine collagen for the ultimate skin fix. We love a teaspoon of Vanessa Megan’s Astaxanthin & Marine Collagen Skin Boost mixed with coconut water. Contact Australian Natural Beauty Co. on 02 9568 5264.

THE PEOPLE, PLACES AND EVENTS THAT PRO BEAUTY IS CURRENTLY CRUSHING ON

THE SECRET IS OUT

Prescription-based skincare brand, The Secret has released their latest product, Solar Serum SPF50, after three years in development. The pigmented, broadspectrum formula is dispensed via a hygienic dropper and works as a sunscreen-tinted moisturiser hybrid. PB Online Editor Hannah Gay has added the solution to her daily rotation, noting: “It’s hard to fault this multifunctional product, crafted with efficacious ingredients and housed in luxurious packaging. It has become my latest holy grail!” Contact The Secret on 0444 555 261.

JESSICA NAILS GOES GREEN

Professional nailcare brand Jessica Cosmetics has launched a line of 24 sustainable nail shades. The brand’s BioPure Eco-Friendly Polishes are vegan and free of 21 toxic ingredients commonly used in nail products. Natural ingredients, from sugarcane to cottonseed oil, feature throughout the range, which extends to include a base, top coat and

OLAPLEX ENTERS THE LASH GAME

Renowned haircare brand Olaplex has launched into the lash space with the release of its LASHBOND Building Serum. The clear solution is prostaglandin-free and ophthalmologist tested, and is designed to strengthen the hair for greater length and volume. Available as a salon retail offering, the product is compatible with lash lifts, lash extensions, false lashes and contact lenses. Contact Haircare Group on 1300 437 436.

TECH TALK

Podium has launched an AI-powered communication tool to aid businesses in responding to visitor comments online. The ‘Review Response Suggestions’ tool is powered using ChatGPT, and works by generating response suggestions to comments and reviews left by outgoing clients. On the tool, Podium CEO Eric Rea said “Online reviews have never been more influential, but as a business owner staying on top of them - good or bad - can be a daunting and time-consuming task. Our integration with ChatGPT is designed to unburden local businesses, enabling them to manage their online reputation more efficiently and spend more time working on meaningful, face-to-face or revenue-generating tasks.” To learn more, visit www.podium.com.au.

CYBER SECURITY A GROWING FOCUS FOR BEAUTY BUSINESS OWNERS

According to a report by The Australian Cyber Security Centre (ACSC), Small-Medium Enterprises (SMEs) inclusive of beauty salons were subject to an average of $63,500 in cybercrime incidents in 2022.

This statistic is echoed in findings released by US business development company SCORE - that small businesses are the target of 43% of all cyber attacks.

While consideration of cyber security and computer security generally is nothing new, a renewed focus is being placed on small businesses to manage the threat before it’s too late.

According to Cisco, cyber security is “the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These cyberattacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information; extorting money from users; or interrupting normal business processes.”

In the same ACSC report mentioned above, it was noted that the most frequently reported cybercrimes were online fraud (27%), online shopping (14%), and online banking (13%).

While cyber security was deemed to be ‘very important’ to 80% of those surveyed by the ACSC in 2019, only 40% admitted to having an at least ‘average’ understanding of it.

The same survey revealed that 97% of sole traders adopt a DIY approach to their business’ cyber security, likely due to financial limitations when it comes to outsourcing. Furthermore, nearly half of those surveyed spend less than $500 annually on cyber security.

In February, the federal government announced it would appoint a new Cyber Security Coordinator to oversee and dismember increasing cyber threats.

The government has also developed an assessment tool to help businesses establish their current risk.

In response to the protection gap, salon insurers are also jumping in to support vulnerable beauty businesses.

Insurance firm BizCover has released a Cyber Liability Insurance policy to help protect beauty businesses from claims and support profitability in the event of a cyber breach. Cover is provided in a range of instances, from data breaches including theft or loss of client information, through to loss and legal costs.

ACSC recommends business owners educate their staff on cyber security risks to bypass or lessen external threats.

For more information on how you can protect your business from cyber security threats, visit www.cyber.gov.au.

SILK LASER CLINICS TO BE ACQUIRED BY WESFARMERS’ API

Adelaide-born SILK Laser Clinics is set to be acquired by Wesfarmers’ subsidiary Australian Pharmaceutical Industries Limited (API) for a reported $169 million.

The non-binding, indicative and conditional proposal by API would secure SILK shareholders with $3.15 per share, at a premium of 30.2 percent.

API, who already counts Clear Skincare Clinics as a supplier, also has a sizable reach over the Australian pharmaceutical space, encompassing Priceline, Pharmacist Advice and Soul Pattinson Chemist.

According to API’s website, the company’s services include wholesale product delivery, retail services, marketing programs and business advisory services.

“SILK has grown from a single store in South Australia, to listing on the ASX a few short years ago, growing the network

to more than 140 stores. We believe that this is the next phase of growth for our company and most importantly, our shareholders and franchise partners,” shared SILK Laser Clinics Founder and Managing Director, Martin Perelman.

On the acquisition, Martin said: “A business of this size, means that we will have the ability to continue to grow our systems, processes and our brand. All in all, we know there will be significant benefits and enhancements in the way that we do things.”

SILK Laser Clinics was founded in 2009 and currently operates out of 142 clinics. The provider of non-surgical offerings specialises in laser, skin and body treatments, as well as cosmetic injectables. The business also stocks a namesake skincare, and is the exclusive clinic partner of Aesthetics RX.

According to Business News Australia, SILK Laser Australia also owns brands Australian Skin Clinics (ASC), The Cosmetic Clinic (TCC), Unique Laser and Eden Laser Clinics.

It helps with tracking everything and the admin involved in running a business, but also helps in the day-to-day running, like keeping track of client notes and history, and all communication with a specific client.

Amy Carswell Owner of Hillcrest Hair Design, Hamilton

KITOMBA IS VERY IMPORTANT TO US – IT’S THE FIRST THING WE OPEN IN THE DAY, AND THE LAST THING WE CLOSE AT NIGHT.

RISING NUMBER OF MALE AND MATURE AGE STUDENTS IN TAFE BEAUTY COURSES

A rising number of male and mature age students are enrolling in beauty courses at TAFE institutions across Australia.

Beauty Therapy Teacher and Professional Learning Committee Chair for TAFE Queensland, Lacie Green has witnessed the trends first-hand.

With eight years of teaching under her belt, Lacie has only recently seen a “big increase” in mature age enrollments, including “a lot of nurses coming over for an industry change, which is great.”

Short courses in Nail Technology, Infection Prevention and Botanical Product Development in particular, are proving popular amongst mature age students. ”Our short courses are designed to re-engage industry members or those considering a career change which tends to be our mature age demographic,” Lacie says.

“Generally a lot of students with older children looking for more of a work-life balance, or previous graduates looking to move away from the labor-intensive

treatments like waxing and massage, will fall under the Diploma.”

A trending increase in male enrollments at Diploma level is also providing “a wonderful element to our classroom environment!” Lacie says.

“When I first started teaching it was uncommon to have a male in the classroom, and over the last two years in particular we meet a new male student each intake, which is great to see!”

“I think as a whole we are seeing more and more males in roles that were typically more female-lead in the past. The likes of Kai Atkinson, Michael Huxley and Matt Williams are inspiring the next generation of males to consider the beauty industry as an option.”

Lacie reveals that male students are bringing with them a new set of skills and are often skilled in specialties requiring an attention-to-detail, such as makeup application, nail art, waxing and facials.

“Males can occasionally struggle with

THE FUTURE OF ANTIAGEING SKINCARE INGREDIENTS, ACCORDING TO MINTEL

Anti-ageing ingredients and the rise in demand for solutions in China and the APAC region are the focus of a recent Mintel beauty report.

In China, interest in anti-ageing skincare has come about due to heightened consumer awareness on skin ageing, preventative measures, and the movement of millennials into the 40+ age group whereby skin ageing is a concern.

It was found that when investing in antiageing product types, Chinese consumers aged 40-49 were consistently high scoring on regularity of use compared to other age groups.

62% of 40-49 year-olds use facial suncare, and 48% use a facial serum/ essence/concentrate. 65% of Chinese 18-24 year-olds use facial suncare - the largest cohort to do so compared to other age groups.

Over in Japan, an ageing population and high life expectancy are also shifting the focus toward anti-ageing solutions.

[attracting] willing clients for bikini waxing and sometimes spray tans, but generally they excel in most services and add a wonderful dynamic to the classroom.”

“We are lucky our campus salons attract a lot of easy-going clients happy to help our students with whatever they need to succeed. At my campus in particular, we have a lovely client that has been coming to the campus for more than 25 years,” Lacie says. “I remember working on her as a student and now as the teacher, she is our go-to client on call when our students are stuck for models.”

Lacie admitted that a new training package is also in the works, “keeping us on our toes at the moment!”

For more information on beauty courses offered through TAFE Queensland, visit www.tafeqld.edu.au.

Consumers are looking for products to counter the ageing effects of mask wearing post-COVID.

In much the same way Australian brands are increasingly eager to market themselves as sustainable, anti-ageing claims are on the rise by brands internationally.

“As local brands are eager to win the attention of younger generations, early anti-ageing is taking a strong hold in the mainstream market and is driving innovation,” the report states.

“Innovations in product texture/formats and technology are the key strategy to be able to differentiate the offer.”

With ingredients such a hyaluronic acid, retinol and peptides having gone mainstream, brands are turning their attention to new anti-ageing ingredients to market to consumers.

“Brands are aggressively targeting the youth market with ingredients that do not directly target wrinkles and sagging, but rather those that have value-added benefits such as antioxidant and barrier repair.”

Mintel flagged ingredients with ‘Approaching Mainstream’ status as: Pro-xylane, Astaxanthin, Fullerene, Beta-glucan, and Resveratrol, and ‘Emerging’ status as: Ergothioneine, Carnosin, Copper tripeptide-1, Idebenone (hydroxydecyl ubiquinone), and Haematococcus pluvialis extract.

LIFTING AND BRIGHTENING PROGRAMME

A revolution in needle-free biorevitalisation that stimulates the skin’s natural restorative processes like never before.

The 3-step approach combines an innovative, patentpending formulation applied in-clinic, with a home care protocol to deliver immediate and progressive results with minimal downtime.

The skin is visibly firmer, brighter and smoother from the very first treatment.

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BEAUTY & SPA INSIDERS STELLAR SPEAKER LINEUP

This year’s BSI is shaping up to be an unforgettable day of inspiration and education. Here are a few of the familiar faces joining us. www.beautyandspainsiders.com.au Stay tuned for more speakers to be announced shortly.

TERRI (VINSON) JONES FOUNDER, SYNERGIE SKIN

Terri Vinson is an Australian skin scientist, cosmetic chemist, published author, and the founder of Synergie Skin.

With over twenty years of formulating experience, Terri holds a Bachelor of Science (Immunology & Microbiology), a post-graduate Diploma of Formulating Chemistry, a Diploma of Education (Biology & Senior Science), and is a member of the ASCC (Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists). She is a world-recognised formulator, a lecturer in the field of cosmetic science, and the author of ‘Skinformation: A Clean Science Guide to Beautiful Skin’.

Terri is revered as one of the most innovative and qualified professionals in the industry. A passionate visionary driven to create the highest quality and highest potency products on the market, Terri harnesses her own unique synergy of scientific expertise and passion for ethical beauty to formulate transformative cosmeceuticals.

EMMA LOUISE PAXTON FOUNDER & CEO, PAX POLISH

The seeds of PAX were sown when manicure devotee Emma was pregnant and started investigating the ingredients in the nail polishes she was using. She found there were a lot of nasties that she didn’t want to use, whether she was pregnant or not. Emma created PAX Polish in 2021, with the aim of creating a high-quality, vegan and cruelty-free nail polish that would be accessible and affordable to a wide audience. She founded the company with the goal of creating a line of nail polishes that are safe, non-toxic, and eco-friendly, without sacrificing performance or quality.

Emma’s route to beauty was not an obvious one. Up until this point, her career had been as a senior business development executive for global law firms (her suits were black but her nail polish was always vivid). Emma excelled in critical thinking, challenging the status quo, problemsolving, but most importantly she brought creativity to the table. It was this mindset that got her to the positions she held, and ultimately into beauty.

PAX Polish entered the market, with the now cult-status Nail Colour + Treatment, and was quickly noticed and ranged by global leaders in the beauty industry – Sephora in Australia and New Zealand and with DOUGLAS in Europe. Emma has received recognition in the beauty industry and is regularly featured in publications for her insights in nail polish and clean beauty.

ISABELLA LONERAGAN FOUNDER OF RAGAN SKIN, ISABELLA LONERAGAN SKIN

Isabella Loneragan is the founder of Ragan Skin and Isabella Loneragan Skin. As an awardwinning product formulator, educator and Internationally trained skin therapist, Isabella is recognised as one of the most qualified skin experts in Australasia and is transforming lives through her innovative and nurturing approach to treating complex skin conditions. Isabella’s signature is The Intrinsic Facial®️ is a summation of over 15 years of handson experience and has rapidly grown in popularity and praise since its inception when Isabella initially trained in Paris to master the art of sculptural lifting and buccal massage.

MEDICAL MICRONEEDLING CONFERENCE

with Dr. Matthias Aust

PUSHING THE BOUNDARIES AND ENHANCHING TREATMENT OUTCOMES

The highly anticipated Medical Microneedling Conference offers unique insights and valuable teachings into exactly how the parameters of microneedling can be pushed and flexed to influence unrivalled results.

International keynote speaker Dr. Matthias Aust is a leading researcher & practitioner in the field of medical microneedling. He specialises in both aesthetic and surgical microneedling, with his research and findings frequently published in reputable medical publications.

Seats are limited so register today for our early bird special tickets. Visit www.microneedlingconference.com

PD. DR. MED. Matthias Aust Head of Plastic & Aesthetic Surgery Aust Aesthetik, Munich, Germany

A WAY FORWARD FOR WOMEN

TO OUR merit, the Australian professional beauty industry is women-centric; and we’re not just talking about those we treat. According to The Australian Bureau of Statistics, 97% of Australian beauty therapists identify as female and the occupation serves as one of the top five most female-dominated industries in the country. It’s to this point that we are best positioned to understand the struggles women face in attaining work after a period of extended leave.

The Federal Government’s 2023 Status of Women Report Card revealed that women continue to be less likely to participate in the workforce (62%) than men (71%), and more likely to work parttime (43%) than men (10%). Women also remain underrepresented in leadership roles, despite social discourse suggesting the gap is lessening. Despite the decline in Australia’s unemployment rate among women to a low of 3.4% in July 2022, current data shows the gender pay gap progress has stalled.

According to Dr Leonora Risse, Senior Lecturer in Economics at RMIT University and a Research Fellow with the Women’s Leadership Institute Australia, factors like post-pandemic economic uncertainty, inflation and the rising cost of living has led to more women rejoining the workforce out of financial necessity, disproportionately moving into lower-paying jobs. Women often find themselves coming back into the workforce at the bottom of the ladder, with less bargaining power, being assigned roles that diminish their capabilities and don’t reflect their true value, and/or having to ask themselves, ‘What is the lowest wage I’m willing to accept?’, with increasing economic pressure meaning

having to accept a lower paid position against the alternative of having no job at all.

The argument that women are any less skilled than men is flawed, Dr Risse argues. “We need to stop using ‘more experience’ or ‘more training’ as the reason women are not being selected for roles. Australian women are already among the highest educated in the world. Gender gaps in workforce outcomes are not a matter of women having less capabilities than men. It’s a matter of women’s capabilities not being fully recognised and valued.”

To provide a solve, Alpha-H’s Chief Commercial Officer Tina Randello founded The Encoreship in 2021 - a program specifically designed to provide a channel through which women can apply for, and be fast-tracked into roles that allow them to best utilise their skills. Suitable applicants are often those who have been out of the workforce for some time (due to child rearing, carer responsibilities, personal illness, and so on), as well as those currently employed but looking for an opportunity to advance their career and move into higher roles.

While a return to work sounds straightforward in theory, Tina notes that an assumption “that her skills have deteriorated and her capabilities diminished” runs rife across the board. “While of course there will be new knowledge that women returning to the workforce will need to be updated on and skills to be refreshed, it’s important that women don’t let this assumption cloud them from recognising the skills and experience that they still hold that don’t diminish over time. In fact, once women become mothers, they gain many other productive capabilities, especially the art of efficient multi-tasking!”

Gender biases can hinder the career progressions of many, which often boils

Now in its third year running, The Encoreship is providing a pathway for skilled women to re-enter the workforce, and beauty brands the chance to do good. Writes Hannah Gay.

“Gender gaps in workforce outcomes are not a matter of women having less capabilities than men. It’s a matter of women’s capabilities not being fully recognised and valued.”

– Dr Leonora Risse

down to gaps in a person’s CV leaving the wrong impression. “Instead this should be viewed as someone who has a diverse and holistic life experience which brings added insights and strengths,” Tina says.

Enrolment in The Encoreship provides opportunity not just for the individual, but for the onboarding business. Recruitment agencies connected to the program work to assign roles made available by partnering Australian businesses to those who apply to be involved. “The program ensures that women are being matched to the jobs and growth opportunities that fully recognise their skills and capabilities,” Tina adds. “It paves future pathways for women, rather than relegating them to roles without prospects for expansion, innovation and progression. It doesn’t leave women doubting their capabilities but instead lifts them up into the roles and opportunities they deserve.”

Job roles have already been offered with partnering beauty brands including Alpha-H, Adore Beauty and recently, Ultra Violette. “Roles in marketing, event management, project management, customer service and HR have been popular roles with Encores, with many not coming directly from those functions in their previous work experience, but with great transferable skills,” Tina notes. “Businesses that are open to flexibility, recognising transferable skills, diversity and that can look beyond the CV would all be

perfect brands to join the program.”

While as many as 250 women applied for The Encoreship’s most recent uptake, job offerings remain limited to the number of participating brands. “We would love to hear from businesses keen to join the program,” Tina says. “If gender equality and diversity is important to your business or brand, The Encoreship is an established program that businesses can easily slot into.”

Alliance with The Encoreship provides a beauty brand the opportunity to stand up for the rights of the women they employ and for the industry it represents. “They will be partnering with other like-minded brands where the connections have shown to be deeper than the program alone. Importantly, it’s a great way to get work done that your current resources are not getting to, such as a project or adding resources to expedite an initiative. Alpha-H and each brand has found the program very fulfilling personally and professionally.”

For the business that opts to partake, the recruitment process is driven by them. Meet-and-greet sessions for Encores, as well as personal development training are provided at no cost. “We’ve had many super experienced, amazing Encores join the program. Every story and journey is different but what is common - capable, motivated women who have so much to offer, they just want the ability to demonstrate what they can do. We’ve had

LESLIE’S STORY

As told by Tina Randello: “One of our fabulous Encores from 2022, Leslie had been a Beauty Therapist pre-pandemic and had then been out of the workforce for several years prioritising caring for her family of five! She was looking for a career change and joined Adore Beauty in a Customer Experience role which she enjoyed greatly as it still utilised her professional beauty skills while fitting into her family life more easily than her salon work.

She explained to me after being on The Encoreship program for a few weeks her husband asked why she was so happy in the evening. He wondered why Leslie had a big smile on her face each night after work when she was juggling more than she ever had. Leslie knew the reason immediately: she had rediscovered herself, not her role as a wife, mum, daughter or sister; but her as a person in her own right. She loved the feeling of doing great work, helping others and receiving so much reward and recognition from her work - it motivated her and brought her much joy and fulfillment.

In addition to the financial empowerment, it’s the nonfinancial aspects of working, the connections, satisfaction of achievement, being part of a community and helping others that is often not considered when deciding to return to work.”

senior finance and IT backgrounds move into HR roles, visual merchandising move into project management and beauty therapists move into customer care to name a few of the functional shifts that have been successful. Skill in prioritisation, time management, stakeholder engagement and mentorship of young teams have been common skills we have seen Encores bring to each business.”

To align your beauty business with The Encoreship, visit www.alpha-h.com/pages/ the-encoreship, or reach out to Tina directly on LinkedIn. n

“If gender equality and diversity is important to your business or brand, The Encoreship is an established program that businesses can easily slot into.” - Tina Randello

Photography: Brandee Meier

Concept and product curation: Ariana Pezeshki

Organicsceauticals Biohydra+serum 02 6680 3266 Youth To The People Peptides + C Energy Eye Concentrate www.youthtothepeople.com

Sunday Riley Luna Sleeping Night Oil www.sundayriley.com

Vanessa Megan Vitamin A+B+C Daily Face Cream 02 9568 5264

ARTDECO Natural Cream Lipstick in Red Tulip and Silky Powder Blush and Smooth Eyeshadow Stick and Natural Brown Liner and Natural Lengthening Mascara and Liner Brush 1300 55 29 24

Jessica Cosmetics BioPure Natural Origin in Birkenstock and Green Scene and Top Coat 1300 470 648 Pure Fiji Coconut Cleansing Balm 1800 625 387

L’OCCITANE Almond Shower Oil and Reusable Cotton Pad Trio au.loccitane.com

Emma Lewisham Supernatural Triple Vitamin A+ Face Oil hello@emmalewisham.co.nz

WHAT’S IN PB’S

BEAUTY

Ella Baché Hydra Créme 1300 845 259

Olaplex Lashbond Building Serum Eyelash

Enhancer 1300 437 436

Natural Look Rosewater Balancing Mist and Collagen Boosting Mask 1800 805 276

Liberty Belle Rx Miracle Tan Face Mosturiser www.libertybelle.com

Organicsceauticals Skincare Active Brightening

Serum 02 6680 3266

Organicspa Skincare Cream Mask 02 6680 3266

Medik8 Press & Glow Daily Exfoliating PHA Tonic with Enzyme Activation 1800 242 011

Ultraderm IntenC Super Serum 1300 660 297

Photography: Brandee Meier Concept

Ariana Pezeshki

CUPBOARD

Tried and tested favourites in skincare.

DMK Embioment Serum and Cleanser and Mist 02 8424 6600 Mesoestetic Age Element Anti-Wrinkle Lip and Contour and Age Element Anti-Wrinkle Eye Contour 1800 242 011 SkinMTX Intense RejuvorA Cream 1800 242 011

Murad Environmental Sheild City Skin Age Defence Broad Spectrum

SPF 15 1800 687 237

Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defence SPF 30 02 8437 9600

Dermaviduals Hand Cream and Individual Mask and Facial Fan Brush 02 9960 1300

DermaEnergy B2 Serum 1300 799 709

Image Skincare Ormedic Balancing

Antioxidant Serum 1800 625 387

One Eleven Bliss Latté www.oneelevenhealth.com

Silvi Anti-Acne Towel au.mysilvi.com

In Practice Skincare Skin Boost Serum www.inpracticeskincare.com.au

Hawley Plant Based Nail Polish info@hawley.net.au

E45 Moisturising Lotion www.e45.com/auz

PCA SKIN Pigment Gel Pro www.advancedskin.com.au

Payot Purifying Exfoliating Stick and Duo Purifying Concealing Pen 02 98741166

The Secret Solar Serum SPF50 www.thesecretskincare.com

Photography: Brandee Meier

and product curation: Ariana Pezeshki

NAIL YOUR LOOK Autumn

Top Trends for the Season’s Coolest Manicures

Fedua Marasca Rouge, Madama Butterfly, and Argan Bas 07 5646 7298

PAX Polish in Greta, Glennon, and Rosa www.paxpolish.com

Mavala +Silicium Mini Nail Color in Malmo and Perth, and Sevilla 03 9645 1933

Kester Black Rest & Repair Wonder Mask and Self Love Oil www.kesterblack.com

OPI Infinite Shine 2 in Trading Paint and PCH Love Song 02 9486 3211

Photography: Brandee Meier Concept and product curation: Ariana Pezeshki

INMODE’S

SOLUTIONS SCARRING

Respected medical practitioner Dr Ian Chinsee reveals how Inigo Cosmetic in Brisbane is tapping into the latest scar revision technology with incredible results.

By Anita Quade

Tell us about Inigo Clinic and its specialty services for patients?

“Inígo Cosmetic is Brisbane’s premier cosmetic surgery & Medispa clinic located in the heart of the James St precinct, in Brisbane. Our clinics has been thoughtfully designed with our patients in mind. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be enveloped in natural light, comforting textures, and calming music. Your journey only gets better as we lead you down the hallway to our treatment rooms, where we offer a range of body contouring, skin rejuvenation, facial and women’s wellness treatments.

Every journey at Inigo Cosmetic begins with an in-depth skin consultation with one of our experienced practitioners. After a thorough assessment, our practitioners create a tailored treatment plan designed to help our patients achieve their desired outcomes.”

Can you elaborate on your Scar Revision procedures?

“To treat scars, we use a multi-modality approach that involves Morpheus8 and/or Lumecca IPL, depending on the patient’s individual needs and type of scarring. Our approach is highly personalised and we carefully tailor each treatment to address the specific concerns of the patient. Depending on the presentation of the scar, some patients may require both Morpheus8 and Lumecca, while others may benefit from just one of the modalities. We used Moprheus8 to revise and remodel the scar tissue to improve its appearance and texture. Generally if the scar presents with pigment or vascular, we incorporate Lumecca IPL into their treatment plan.”

Why are you so well known for this?

“Our clinic has gained a reputation as a leader in Morpheus8 treatments in Queensland, having performed around 600 procedures each year. This is why we are well-known for this particular procedure. In addition, we specialise in treating surgical scarring.”

You utilise InMode’s Morpheus microneedling device. How long have you had this machine in your clinic?

“We have been using Morpheus8 in clinic for approximately three years, primarily for the face to lift, tighten and tone and body for skin laxity, cellulite and stretch marks. In the past 12-18 months, we began incorporating the technology into our surgical scar management protocols.”

How did you choose this piece of equipment?

“To offer our patients the most effective and versatile treatments, we carefully selected the Morpheus8 device. Its unique ability to address a wide range of skin concerns, such as open pores, skin laxity, acne scarring, cellulite, and scarring, makes it a universal solution for our patients.”

What does it offer your clients?

“Morpheus8 has been a game-changer for our practice. Our clients have been very pleased with the non-surgical option that Morpheus8 provides for improving skin laxity, acne scarring, stretch marks, and cellulite. The treatment is quick and efficient, and there is minimal downtime, making it an appealing option for those

who want to see noticeable results without undergoing surgery.

Moreover, the holistic approach that Morpheus8 offers to our surgical clients has been a significant benefit to our practice. We can be there for our clients from the start of their journey until the end, providing them with personalised care and attention. Offering scar treatments for surgical scars has also helped increase patient satisfaction, which is always a top priority for us. By providing this technology, we can offer cutting-edge

solutions to our clients’ cosmetic concerns and enhance the quality of our services. We are thrilled with the results we have seen so far, and we are confident that Morpheus8 will continue to be a valuable tool in our practice.”

How does it differ from other microneedling devices on the market?

“Morpheus8 is a unique microneedling device that differs from other devices on the market because it combines microneedling with targeted radiofrequency. One of the key advantages

of this technology is the ability to treat multiple layers of tissue in one pass. Unlike other devices that are limited to the face, Morpheus8 can be used anywhere on the body that requires treatment, thanks to its ability to penetrate up to treat from 0.5 to 8mm. With different sized tips for the eyes and scarring, face, body, and resurfacing, you can treat different areas of the body and all layers of the skin and tissue. Another advantage of Morpheus8 is the ability to select your target zone for delivering radio-frequency. Additionally, you can globally treat the area with RF while creating multiple circuits of RF within one pulse.”

DR IAN CHINSEE:

Is a qualified medical practitioner who graduated from the University of Queensland in 2007. Prior to this, he completed a Bachelor of Science in Psychobiology at the University of California, Los Angeles. He then underwent extensive surgical training through QLD Health, focusing on general surgery, plastic and reconstructive surgery. After completing this training, he undertook further cosmetic surgery training and was awarded a fellowship by the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery & Medicine.

Having performed over 3000 breast-related surgeries to date, Dr Chinsee has established a cohort of loyal and satisfied patients across Australia and New Zealand. Dr Chinsee is well respected by his patients for his approachability and compassion. By ensuring the entire process is comfortable and satisfying, his patients know they are well cared for.

What are the advantages of collaborating with InMODE?

“Collaborating with InMODE offers a multitude of advantages for cosmetic practices. Firstly, InMODE is a reputable company known for its cutting-edge technologies and innovative approach to the cosmetic industry. Their team of experts is dedicated to providing excellent service, and we have found that nothing is ever too much trouble for them. This level of support is invaluable, particularly for practices that are just starting.

InMODE also provides exceptional training to ensure that all of their technologies are used to their fullest potential. The training programs are

“Morpheus8 has been a game-changer for our practice. Our clients have been very pleased with the non-surgical option that Morpheus8 provides for improving skin laxity, acne scarring, stretch marks, and cellulite.”

comprehensive, and their team goes above and beyond to ensure that all our staff is confident in using the technology. This training not only ensures that our team can provide high-quality services, but it also helps to increase patient satisfaction.”

Can you share with us the advantages of Lumecca IPL?

“Lumecca IPL uses intense pulsed light photo-thermolysis to target specific wavelengths of light that interact with red and brown pigments found in the skin, namely melanin and hemoglobin. The light energy is absorbed by these pigments, causing them to break down and be eliminated. This results in the fragmentation of hyperpigmentation patches, which are then absorbed and removed by the body’s blood and lymphatic system.”

What is it used for?

“IPL is used in our clinic to treat the appearance of age spots, sun damage, rosacea and hyperpigmentation, restoring a clear complexion and rejuvenated skin tone. Lumecca also increases hydration within the skin and stimulates collagen production.

However, we also use Lumecca IPL as part of our scar revisions to treat surgical scarring, specifically to reduce the appearance of pigmented or vascular scarring that can be left behind after surgery. The treatment is non-invasive and safe, making it an excellent option for patients who want to improve the appearance of their scars without undergoing secondary surgery.”

Why did you choose this particular device for your clinic?

“We chose the Lumecca IPL device as we live in QLD, pigmentation is a common

BEFORE & AFTER

• 2 years post breast augmentation with mastopexy.

• Patient was a sun lover, didn’t follow post operative instructions and had a wound break down and poor wound healing.

• She has had 2 x Morpheus8 2 x Lumecca (treatment still in progress).

• Patient is so much happier & confident, loves her breast augmentation results now as well.

concern amongst our patients here. After using the device for 12 months and seeing excellent outcomes, we believed it would be an ideal addition to our scar revision services.”

What are the advantages of the device?

“Lumecca IPL device offers several advantages for our practice. We’re able to treat a range of skin conditions including age spots, sun damage, vascular lesions, rosacea, freckles and scarring while also providing scar therapy treatments as well as providing scar therapy treatments for our surgical patients. The device is versatile, efficient and safe.”

Again how do you get a ROI with the InMODE machines?

“InMODE devices can provide a return on investment (ROI) in several ways.

Firstly, the device can expand the range of services offered by your practice, attracting new patients who are seeking treatment for a variety of skin conditions. You can also use it in conjunction with other skin treatments and modalities for generally skin rejuvenation, hydration. This can increase revenue by providing a broader range of services to existing patients and attracting new ones. Secondly,

BEFORE & AFTER

• Before was taken 6 weeks post removal & replacement surgery

• Patient has had 3 x Morpheus8 and 2 x Lumecca (treatment still in progress)

• Patient had a removal and replacement, previous surgery was done in Thailand. Due to being a sun lover, scars were quite vascular. Patient loves her surgical results as well as her invisible scarring.

the devices offer relatively quick and painless treatments that require little to no downtime. This means that the machine can perform more treatments per day, which can increase the overall revenue of the practice.

Finally, the devices can help retain patients. Patients who are satisfied with the results of their treatment are more likely to return to the practice for additional services or recommend the practice to their friends and family. This can help to build a loyal patient base, which can increase revenue over time.”

Do InMODE offer extensive support and education with such devices?

“Yes! One of the things we value most about InMODE is their dedication to support, training, and education. InMODE offers comprehensive training programs to ensure that their technologies are utilised to their maximum potential, and their team is committed to ensuring that all of our staff members are proficient in using the technology. They provide ongoing support and are constantly exploring ways to help us maximise revenue with their devices.” n www.inigocosmetic.com.au www.inmode.com.au

“Unlike other devices that are limited to the face, Morpheus8 can be used anywhere on the body that requires treatment, thanks to its ability to penetrate up to treat from 0.5 to 8mm.”

EFFECTIVELY

GREEN

With a global movement towards businesses being eco-friendly and sustainable. Anita Quade chats to skincare leaders about how small steps can make a big difference.

DMK

Tell us about your go green initiatives for 2023?

“For 2023, DMK is continuing its green mission by continuing to make changes to our existing packaging. We launched our DMK MD range last year which utilised PCR plastics and recycled packaging materials. After investigating all the options, we chose this path as being the most impactful way a small company like DMK can have in reducing our carbon footprint. The reason for this is that without customers using and demanding PCR plastics, recycling of plastics will not grow and the amount of plastics sent to landfills or being dropped in our oceans will only continue to grow. Although the cost of PCR plastics is higher and availability is limited, DMK is committed to expanding our use of these materials as we continue to research feasibility of plant based and biodegradable plastics. Unlike mass market brands, DMK is somewhat at the mercy of the container manufacturers. As consumers begin to demand greener packaging, availability across the industry will become better. Besides PCR materials, we are also looking into options for reusable containers. This could reduce overall packaging but requires consumer acceptance. This has become a huge trend for the younger generations which is extremely exciting, but unfortunately most of our clients are aged 40 plus and they still desire prestige packaging. We are looking for alternatives that can appease both.”

Why is it so important to your brand/company?

“As a skincare company, we know that environmental stressors have a huge impact on skin health. It only makes

sense that we should want to do our part in minimising our contribution. We are also the stewards of our planet for the next generations. Even though we sell products that focus on improving individual’s appearance, we are not vainglorious enough to ignore the importance of trying to save the planet we inherited. We will continue to do our part by reducing overall packaging and utilising packaging materials that reduce our overall impact on the environment.”

How difficult has it been to make small changes to make a big difference?

“Implementing even small changes can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to shifting established practices in favour of more environmentally friendly alternatives, such as the use of PCR and other recyclable materials. Adapting to such changes may require significant adjustments to processes, supply chains, and ultimately, the bottom line. As a responsible corporate entity, it is our duty to engage in transparent and proactive dialogue with our stakeholders to communicate the necessity and rationale behind these changes. This enables us to make informed and sustainable choices that reflect our commitment to reducing our environmental impact and creating a more sustainable future.”

Tell us a stand-out moment on your “going green” journey?

“I think the biggest surprise was learning how complex the issue really is. Whereas aluminum is the most recycled, its functionality is limited as is the supply. What is the environmental impact of mining

additional aluminum ores. Glass has similar functionality limitations being rigid. There are safety concerns with breakage and there is an increased carbon footprint from shipping these heavier containers internationally. The bottom line is that there are many factors to consider and not just one simple answer. DMK is committed to becoming greener and this is an ongoing journey. We will continue to adjust our strategy as new options become available.”

One particularly noteworthy moment in our journey towards sustainability was the launch of our DMK MD product line for Advanced Paramedical Skin Revision. In response to growing concerns about our environmental impact, we made a conscious effort to incorporate sustainable packaging materials, including secondary boxes and containers made of at least 50% PCR, as well as fully recyclable cardboards. Our commitment to sustainability has continued to evolve, and this year we have received overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding our plan to introduce refillable containers, which we anticipate will significantly reduce our environmental footprint. These

efforts are a testament to our unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility and our ongoing efforts to create a more sustainable future.”

What is your goal in the next five years in this space and how do you see your company making a difference?

“As a forward-thinking company, our goal for the next five years is to continue our journey towards environmental sustainability by implementing a number of ambitious targets. Our overarching aim is to significantly reduce our environmental impact by making 50% of our product line available in refillable containers, thereby reducing our overall packaging waste. In addition, we are committed to reducing our reliance on printed materials by 30%, while working to ensure that the remainder of our packaging is made from 100% PCR material, wherever possible. By pursuing these targets, we hope to make a meaningful contribution to the wider sustainability conversation and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to creating a more sustainable future for all.” n

DANNÉ MONTAGUE-KING Founder DMK www.dmkskin.com.au

“As a skincare company, we know that environmental stressors have a huge impact on skin health. It only makes sense that we should want to do our part in minimising our contribution.”

Tell us about your go green initiatives for 2023?

“Since the launch of Big Towel Company 13 years ago, we have been at the forefront of sustainability.

We have changed how the hair and beauty industry thinks about using traditional towels by offering 100% ecofriendly, disposable products such as salon towels, capes, headbands, facial wipes, and treatment gowns.

With awareness of the rising cost of electricity, the industry has also realised that eco-towels are not only sustainable, but also a cost-effective alternative to skyrocketing utility costs.

The transition to single use towels from cotton towels, also known as eco-towels, is growing in popularity, and today, salons are embracing the environmental benefits.

With our products being 100% eco-friendly, we wanted to complete the full circle and go plastic free in our packaging. This is our main green initiative in 2023.

Packaging has made huge progress since the days when almost everything was shrinkwrapped in plastic. We needed a sustainable solution that would keep our products compact, aesthetically pleasing, and not pass on increased material costs to the consumer. We stand proud that, to date, 70% of our product packaging is 100% sustainable by using sustainable material and

BIG TOWEL COMPANY

packaging our products in a more forward-thinking and convenient way.”

Why is being eco-friendly so important to your brand/company?

“Big Towel Company lives and breathes sustainability and is the brainchild of Sharon Blain, an award-winning global hair icon and salon owner for more than 40 years.

While running two successful salons, the rising laundry costs and daily management of towels were major issues. There was a gap in the market to address these concerns and Sharon saw an amazing opportunity for singleuse disposable towels. The savings on wages, electricity, water and the fact that it was environmentally friendly ticked all the boxes and made it a no-brainer for forward thinking salons. With environmental concerns looming, there was something of a revolution happening within the hair and beauty industry

Today, disposable environmental products are more in demand than ever before. Using sustainable products is not just for green companies; salons are becoming increasingly aware of their impact on the environment and society.

The core mission for Big Towel Company is to provide innovative, high quality ecoproducts to change the way

salons do business by helping to complete the perfect client experience while reducing overheads and benefiting the environment. Businesses have seen generous savings of up to 43% on electricity consumption by not washing and drying their towels and are fast recognising that eco-towels are towels of the future.”

How difficult has it been to make small changes to make a big difference?

“Any step forward, no matter how small, makes a huge difference in the ever-evolving world of sustainability, and all the effort and dedication to make it happen is worth the effort.

Over the years, the industry was understandably cautious about switching from traditional cotton towels. Education of the benefits of sustainability and for salons to develop a cost-effective business approach to making the switch was key.

We have seen a major shift from traditional cotton towels to disposable options during the COVID-19 pandemic. Businesses needed to reconsider their health and hygiene practices for their clients. Offering fresh, clean, and personalised disposable towels helps to limit crosscontamination, especially for discerning clients who expect nothing less from a total salon experience and service.

Over the last 12 months we wanted to take our green footprint one step further and offer even more with our muchloved disposable material.

This year we launched our new premium material for our best-selling disposable towel that is thicker, even more absorbent and incredibly soft to touch. Over the years, we have perfected this one-of-a-kind material that is unlike any other disposable towel in the market.

You wouldn’t believe that a disposable product could feel so luxurious, as well as being biodegradable, free of toxins and plastics, hygienic, clean and cost effective.

We stand proud and will continue to be at the forefront of eco-salon products that are clean, chic and green!”

Tell us a stand-out moment on your “going green” journey?

“Locally manufacturing our popular Beauty Headbands here in Australia was an a-ha moment for us. Being able to manufacture part of our products locally is a huge honour and we are very proud to be an Australian company.

This is just the beginning for Big Towel Company and our sustainable journey. We look forward to expanding to new markets and keeping with the latest sustainable trends to develop ground-breaking products and materials that will help businesses and the planet."n

SHARON BLAIN Founder Big Towel Company www.bigtowelcompany.com

“Any step forward, no matter how small, makes a huge difference in the ever-evolving world of sustainability, and all the effort and dedication to make it happen is worth the effort.”

A 3-piece Microbiome Enhancing System designed to restore a healthy balance to your skin’s microbial flora. The Enbioment range has all-natural formulations to help to re-establish health and diversity in the skin’s microbiome to reduce and revise reactive skin conditions.

dmkskin.com.au

MESOESTETIC LASTEST SKINCARE REVOLUTION

With so many retinols on the marketthis leading brand has developed skinretin® 0.3%, to maximise anti-ageing benefits. Anita Quade chats to Global Product Manager at mesoestetic® Elisa Tapia.

With this composition, skinretin® 0.3% achieves visible anti-ageing results without compromising the tolerance of the formula.

Who is your target client?

All skin types that look for a solution to improve the appearance of dark spots, lack of luminosity, dynamic wrinkles and expression lines, and loss of density and elasticity. The formula and texture of skinretin® 0,3% are suitable for all skin types.

How long does it take to develop and test this product before it comes to market?

There are so many retinols on the market – tell us how this formulation is different?

What makes skinretin® 0.3% different from other retinols on the market is the balance between efficacy and skin tolerance. Research and development have enabled us to design a formula combining retinol and bakuchiol that maximises the anti-ageing benefits of both ingredients, while providing an optimal balance of skin tolerance.

What are some of the hero ingredients in this product?

Pure retinol, bakuchiol (which enhances the effects of retinol and has very similar benefits, with the advantage of being ideal for skins that have a low tolerance to retinol), a post-biotic complex (which visibly revitalises the skin, balances and protects the skin’s microbiota), centella asiatica (which has a restoring effect) and ectoine (which helps to restore skin barrier function).

It was a long development process, particularly when it comes to a retinol, as it is a molecule that generates great difficulties especially when trying to create a stable, light formulation. Thanks to the hard work of our R&D team and biotechnology unit, we have achieved a cream with a light and pleasant texture with the scientific backing that characterises mesoestetic® solutions.

You have such a long line of incredible skincare solutions – what is it that keeps customers loyal to the mesoestetic® brand?

At mesoestetic® we are committed to bringing confidence, clarity and scientific rigour to the world of beauty. Since 1985, we have been committed to creating products of the highest quality and efficacy, backed by the results of numerous studies. We are a pharmaceutical laboratory that designs and produces at our headquarters in Viladecans (Barcelona), and this differential factor is fundamental to guarantee the efficacy, quality and reliability of all the treatments we develop, allowing us to control and take care of every step of the process. I believe that it is thanks to all of this and to innovation that consumers trust us and our products. n

“At mesoestetic® we are committed to bringing confidence, clarity and scientific rigour to the world of beauty. Since 1985, we have been committed to creating products of the highest quality and efficacy, backed by the results of numerous studies.”

TIMELYAmbassador

BOOKING AND client experience

software provider Timely has recently announced the appointment of official brand ambassadors. The ambassadors have been appointed to drive advocacy, grow reach, and brand awareness. Tamara Reid said newly appointed ambassador Natasha Smit has an existing authentic voice of influence within the beauty industry.

“The Ambassador programme is mutually beneficial, adding value not only to the Timely brand but also adding value to each of Ambassadors’ profile.”

Timely Ambassador Natasha Smit

Tell us about how you got into the beauty industry?

“My mother gave me a lot of business skills in a perhaps unconventional way. As a single mother she often worked doing cleaning, sewing and had various small business ventures to support her children such as selling skincare and makeup. She taught me that women should always have their own source of income independent of a partner, no matter what. Today they call it Financial Feminism, but for a lot of women past and present, it was called survival. I was bullied and assaulted in school and had left to work in a cafe. I loved makeup so Mum took me to Tuesday night demonstrations given by her own mentor Bonnie Leonard in the back of her clothing shop in Tauranga New Zealand. I was inspired by this glamorous, outgoing divorcee who sold makeup from under glass counters like it was jewellery. She made her own money and answered to nobody.”

How did she influence you?

“Bonnie suggested I be sent to Joyce Blok Institute of Beauty Therapy, an expensive private institution 3.5 hours away. Between my grandmother and my mother, the money was raised just in the nick of time, and the rest is history. I owe my career to women who knew they needed to do it for themselves and showed me how.

My first salon was in the back room of a hair salon, with a few thousand dollars that

represented all the money my mother and grandmother could raise. The reality is that for many women, the path in is hard graft and doing what you can with what you’ve got. Raising me sometimes without a huge income, and other times on welfare, Mum taught me to give value where you can, swaps, shares, helping each other out to create a network and a safety net. I realised quickly that what I couldn’t give a supplier in dollar spend, I could give in making video content and contributing to user forums, adding value that got my salon noticed and meant people gave me more than I would have otherwise been given.”

How did you become a Brand Ambassador for Timely?

“I spent 14 years working with bad salon software ‘three clicks when one should do’. Staff were sick of their social media apps being more slick than the software that ran their work life. I mapped the client experience journey - from the minute they thought of needing a salon, to google, to book, consult, follow up... the way it SHOULD look. I made the world’s most insane spreadsheet of every single salon software on the market. I spent 7 months interviewing these brands, sometimes waking up at 3am to get on an intro call with New York to make sure I didn’t miss any brands due to time differences. Rather than letting them sell it their way, I asked them to answer each step of my spreadsheet client journey, and marked the box according to whether they could do what I was asking - or not.

The only brand that came even CLOSE was Timely, but there were still critical gaps.

So I wrote to Timely with a business case for closing those gaps. I said I would use Timely when they could do those things. Within a year, they got back to me, having developed all of my requests. The speed and accuracy, the attention to user experience, is unmatched by anyone else. I switched and my business revenue went through the roof, as I knew it would.

Knowing most salon owners use 40-50% of the features they pay for, I set out to use

them 100%. I hacked the Consult app to make it into a useful skincare prescription pad, and started to make videos about how I was using Timely and how it was making me more money. Timely offered me the role late last year, and I hope to be in it for as long as possible. I want to see Timely take 100% market share, because they are the only brand who develop according to actual in-business use, without gaslighting users into paying for things that should, in the age of open-source software, be inclusive or free.”

What does this mean for your company and what is the biggest advantage of your synergy with Timely?

“As leaders we have to understand that staff see our business as extensions of us personally. If your software sucks, you suck - you’re the one making them use it. You are 100% in charge of how they experience work, so don’t make it a shit time for them or you can expect to struggle with retention. If you use a 2015-era software, don’t be surprised that millennials refuse to work for you in 2023.

Since moving to Timely our team can photograph, consult, take voice notes, text, email, market, perform a checkout from literally anywhere in the spa (or at home if we let them log in from their own devices). They lean in. They make more money. They LIKE the software.

The biggest change is not having to train them. Timely is like using instagram, your staff just know how and if they don’t, they work it out in moments.

If I didn’t own and adore Natasha’s Skin Spa, I would want to work for Timely full time. They’re a serious partner to my business and are the industry’s hottest brand to watch.” n

Natasha Smit

BUSINESS Innovations

By Anita Quade

AUSTRALIAN COLOUR TECHNOLOGIES

Kelly Inglis and Georgie Westley

and that you can trust. I have always encouraged people to shine in their own ways and that has been my reward to watch them grow.”

HOW HAS THE INDUSTRY EVOLVED?

G: “Technology is better and more refined, we are seeing multimodality treatments at a less intense level done more frequently to get the same deep results without the pain.”

K: “Oh my goodness, this industry evolves at the speed of light. Just when I think I have it covered we turn another corner and I’m learning all over again. If you don’t love what you are doing you will be left in the dust behind those that do.”

TELL US HOW YOU MET YOUR BUSINESS PARTNER GEORGIE?

K: “I met Georgie when a staff member of mine booked for eyebrow tattoo with her and I tagged along for the ride and decided to have mine done too. I thought she was pretty impressive right from the start. So much knowledge and such a boss, even though she was working from her spare bedroom at the time. A few months later I became her very first cosmetic tattoo student, which is one of my very own claims to fame lol. Georgie’s support through the months after, while I was learning, meant we became instant friends.”

YOU HAVE BEEN IN THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY MORE THAN 20 YEARS – WHAT SPARKED YOUR PASSION IN THIS FIELD?

Georgie: “For as long as I can remember I loved makeup and I was doing a full face from about the age of 11 and started doing others makeup for fashion parades and events from the age of 16. This progressed into Beauty school doing my diploma of beauty, diploma of makeup and certificate in nail technology. Beauty has been with me my whole life… it’s never not been my spark.”

Kelly: “I came across my beauty career quite by accident actually. I was looking for something interesting to study that would enable me to one day have my own business, and then found my place in beauty. From day one all I wanted was my own clinic. I studied and watched others run their own clinics and planned for the day I would open my own. Over 15 years ago I took my chance and have never looked back.”

WHAT WAS SOME OF THE BIGGEST LESSONS YOU LEARNT WHILE RUNNING YOUR OWN SKIN AND TATTOO CLINICS?

G: “The lessons are still coming. I’m always learning - Kelly has had her own clinic longer than me so I learn a lot from her which has been great. I guess over the years I’ve learnt to be stronger and learnt not to be scared of saying no. I very much like to keep my team happy and close so everyone gets along and communication is EVERYTHING… without clear communication things get blown out of proportion and taken out of context. Don’t forget to remind your team how much they mean to you and how appreciated they areit’s the small things that count.”

K: “My biggest lesson was to listen to and trust my own instincts, in business and in people. At the end of the day, I’m proud of what I have achieved and how far I have come. Opening and running your own company in no easy task and to anyone who is currently waist deep in doing it themselves I would advise to surround yourself with people that have a voice. People that have ideas, that have passion

WHAT STRENGTHS DO EACH OF YOU BRING TO THE BUSINESS?

G: “Kelly is the introverted numbers girl, the IT girl that works the back end of the business and makes everything run smoothly. Kelly manages our websites, our orders and financial management. She’s also a great beauty therapist and pmu artist, so is able to help a lot with support questions and emails from therapists and technicians.”

K: “Georgie is the extroverted artsy type that loves to chat to everyone and get to know everyone, she is the girl you will see talking and doing demos at events and expos. She’s well known for her cosmetic tattoo skills and skin and colour science education which greatly supports the practical cosmetic tattoo side of Australian Colour Technologies.”

HOW DIFFICULT WAS IT TO LAUNCH COLOUR TECHNOLOGIES IN 2017?

G: “It was actually fantastic. We both already had successful businesses so AusColTech as we call it was always our fun, side gig. We planned all the details for some time before we launched in Australia and New Zealand. Launching with such a well known and loved brand as Goldeneye Micropigmentation meant we already had a firm client base on the Oceanic shores.”

WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR INNOVATIONS FOR THE BUSINESS?

“The goal was always to supply and support our fellow cosmetic tattooists and business owners. Georgie’s love for science and tattoo and my love of numbers and business meant that we can offer across the board support and advice. We always source the best products we can find and when we can’t we make our own. Medicone Gel is a great example of that. Our biggest selling product is the first one we made ourselves.”

YOU ALSO LAUNCHED BDR MEDICAL BEAUTY –WHAT INSPIRED THIS?

G: “The success of our first partnership with Goldeneye Micropigmentation led us to a company retreat in the Maldives where we were introduced to the BDR Medical Beauty skincare line. After a week-long training seminar we knew that BDR was something special.

After a year of trialling the treatments and products in our own skin clinics and proving the brand to be not only luxurious, but also results driven, we knew we had found such an incredible range that offered the results people wanted without significant downtime or risk to the skin, with that we were ready to share the experience and quality with the rest of the country.

HOW DOES IT STAND OUT IN THE MARKET WITH SO MANY SKINCARE BRANDS?

K: “BDR Medical Beauty offers a unique range of ingredient complexes that allows the line to blend the very best ingredients into scientifically formulated products.

Where other products and methods fail to transport active ingredients deeply to the skin BDR Medical Beauty successfully delivers active ingredients, providing continuous and intensive care where it is needed most. What you put on your skin is just as important as what you put in your body. Our company combines the world’s most valuable natural substances that are cruelty free with the science to create life changing skincare and results. All treatments are completely customised. With the combination of different modalities and ingredients for both at home and professional use, activating the skin’s natural regeneration process and improving a huge range of skin conditions, is made possible. In an age of botox, advanced skin revision and premature ageing caused by excessive sun exposure, stress and pollution, classic and basic facials do not produce the results that clients need. BDR Medical Beauty has brought the dream of rejuvenation without the need for injections or surgery to life by creating a simple recipe for success.”

G: “On top of our extensive range of take-home and clinicuse products, our one-of-a-kind technological equipment delivers results and an experience in its own right. When it comes to facial treatments, BDR Medical Beauty is by far ahead of the competition, offering a relaxing experience with real and immediately visible results. The absolute best treatment is by far our completely pain free skin needling! This treatment can be done weekly and offers rejuvenation with absolutely no downtime. The signature BDR Medical Beauty i-Touch 3.0 and i-Cube have revolutionised the skincare industry. The devices are extremely user friendly, simple to use and affordable. Each device gives skincare experts a level up in their clinic’s professionalism and expertise.”

WHAT HAS THE FEEDBACK BEEN LIKE ON THE LINE?

G: “We have had phenomenal feedback from clients using the range. When it comes to aging, Bdr fills the gap between the luxury clients want and the intensive treatments needed to achieve results. In regard to inflammatory conditions and skins that usually can’t tolerate active skincare, Bdr offers the perfect combination of ingredients meaning even the most reactive skin can get the same results. We have seen even the most angry skin become healthy, hydrated and glowing.”

FAVOURITE HERO PRODUCT?

K: “This is a tricky one. We would really need to say two. Our re-set 4d eye cream. Literally the best eye cream ever! 4 dimensional age-repair eye and lip balm. The unique application technique in combination with a refreshing light texture supplies the delicate eye area with long lasting moisture. 4D reduces puffiness and dark circles, lips are visibly softened and smoothed. This beauty actively shields against free radicals and provides an anti-allergenic, soothing and anti-inflammatory skin protection.

And our Re-lax 3 – our anti-wrinkle in a bottle serum.

High-potential youth elixir. A brilliant serum with a balanced blend of exceptional ingredients. Alleviates signs of ageing while activating skin repair functions. Aids to counteract expression lines, fights free radicals, providing soothing and anti-inflammatory skin protection. Leaves skin radiant, clear, feeling soft and is strong, smooth and tight.”

ANY STAND OUT INGREDIENTS?

G: “Syn-ake – SYN®-AKE is a small synthetic peptide that helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles and lines – fast.

SYN®-AKE enables the face to relax, reducing wrinkles but without losing the ability to help people express themselves. It’s fast acting, long lasting and a game changer.

Matrixyl 3000

This ingredient mimics the ability of naturally occurring peptides to promote collagen and elastin production, which helps to even out the skin tone, making the skin look firmer and younger. Matrixyl 3000 is one of the most popular synthetically generated peptide in skincare.

Micronised Silver

This incredible ingredient is found across our pH range. It acts against bacteria to help calm hypersensitive, irritated, and inflamed skin in addition to supporting the skin’s natural healing process. The particles in Micro Silver continuously release positively-charged ions (AG+), which disrupt harmful bacteria in a variety of ways. The ions destabilise the bacterial structure, break down its cell membranes, cut off vital enzymatic nutrients, and rigorously prevent cell division of the bacteria cells so that the germs can no longer proliferate.

When used regularly, Micronised Silver not only strengthens the skin’s ability to resist the growth of bad bacteria, but it also helps to support the regeneration of healthy skin.”

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE BRAND THIS YEAR AND BEYOND?

K: “We have a few things up our sleeve this year. One of which, Georgie is secretly working on the formulation of a line of products that has been a dream of hers for years. In true partnership style, once Georgie has her exact formulations perfected then I will work on the packaging and delivery to market. Look out for The Beauty Boom later this year!”

BEST BIT OF ADVICE YOU WOULD GIVE TO SKINCARE FOUNDERS?

G: “To any founder, director, manager or therapist. Know your market, where you brand fits and what you want to achieve. Knowing what people want and supplying it for them at an exceptional standard is key to a great business.”

www.australiancolourtechnologies.com

THE TOUCH UP KIT (T.U.K)

Founders Danielle Gardiner and Antoinette Bekos

IOLA CIAVARRA, MANAGING DIRECTOR, REVEAL

TELL US ABOUT THE TOUCH UP KIT (T.U.K) – WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO LAUNCH THIS AT REVEAL?

“A mutual friend connected me with one of the founders of the brand prior to its release and I was instantly hooked on the concept. Months later as the product was finalised it was love at first sight. All I could think was: “this is exactly what salons and clinics need”! I knew T.U.K was something special that hadn’t been done before. Creating the pre-set palettes was the final nod to supporting the professional space. Making makeup accessible to all salons and clinics regardless of space, time and makeup skills, fits perfectly with the Reveal ethos.”

WHAT HAS BEEN ONE OF THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES IN LAUNCHING AND HOW HAVE YOU TACKLED THIS?

“There haven’t been many challenges I think due to the fact that the founders and myself have worked collaboratively and that there

is a need in the market! Probably the biggest consideration though was how to make T.U.K easy to incorporate into a salons’ retail offering – without breaking the bank or having to allocate a makeup savvy person to “look after it”. Makeup is a very tactile thing so creating an entry level affordable opening order with testers and brush sets (Under $2k) was imperative. So too were the digital support tools, including training. You can be up and running with T.U.K in half an hour.”

TELL US WHAT BUSINESS SOLUTIONS YOU OFFER TO STOCKISTS AS A DISTRIBUTOR?

“Reveal represents the modern world of aesthetics. We draw from over 30 years of industry knowledge and our mission is to offer salons and clinics curated retail solutions that are technologically advanced and at the top of their game. We love multitaskers that are easy to incorporate into daily routines with very little fuss but maximum results and enjoyment. With digital support, good margins and covetable brands, our aim is to make retailing a breeze and have clients coming back for more.”

REVEAL IS TWO YEARS OLD, WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO START IT?

“Launching in the midst of COVID in 2021 we were humbled by the resilience and inventiveness of skin therapists and clinic owners. We saw first-hand how retail products helped keep many aesthetic clinics and salons afloat. Being in the industry for over 30 years, I personally have never been prouder. So to us, there was never a better time to start.”

TELL US THE PLANS FOR THE COMPANY IN 2023 AND BEYOND?

“In a nutshell, skincare. We will be launching one to two new brands this year that will surprise and delight. It isn’t easy to find products that tick all of the Reveal boxes. We’ll be making the cut so that stockists and their clients can reap the rewards very soon.”

www.revealaustralia.com.au

“PROBABLY THE BIGGEST CONSIDERATION THOUGH WAS HOW TO MAKE T.U.K EASY TO INCORPORATE INTO A SALONS’ RETAIL OFFERING – WITHOUT BREAKING THE BANK OR HAVING TO ALLOCATE A MAKEUP SAVVY PERSON TO ‘LOOK AFTER IT’.

beyond a matter of trust.

Trust is a virtue as valuable to financial services as it is to the beauty industry. Our clients trust in us to provide a fully compliant feeless payment processing solution. Indeed, we were the first in Australia to provide such a service and are still the market leader. Better still, we’re backed by the largest fintech payments company in the world, Fiserv.

“Trust is very important in our field of business. When it comes to the delivery of a seamless and feeless payment processing solution for our business, we trust in Beyond Payments.”

Karen Shirley, The Skin Clinicians.

SQUARE

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES FACING BEAUTY AND PERSONAL CARE BUSINESSES RIGHT NOW?

“We’re always speaking to our beauty and personal care sellers, and there are four things that are consistently called out as challenges right now: how to find efficiencies running their business; how to find and retain staff; pricing strategies; and how to market their business.

Running an effective business: Owning a salon means that you also have to be a great manager. This means taking good care of employees, retaining old customers, bringing in new ones, organising the schedule, managing appointments, handling no-shows… and much more.

Finding and retaining staff: Hiring the right staff for salons can be very difficult, with the traditional face-to-face interview lacking the ability to really showcase practical skills and talents. Retaining talent is also challenging - ensuring staff are receiving the right incentives and training to ensure they excel and continue to grow in their role.

Pricing strategies: The cost of materials, supplies and other overheads are going up with inflation and cost of living pressures, making price increases a necessary part of doing business. Knowing how and when to implement a price increase is challenging, but factors worth considering include service value, location, target audience, demand and prices of competitors.

Marketing: Gaining visibility is another challenge many salons face and yet another string they need to add to their bow. The ability to dedicate time to creating marketing campaigns via email marketing, social media, customer reviews on Google, their website (including SEO), local events, promotions and specials.”

WITH COST OF LIVING PRESSURES TOP OF MIND FOR MOST AUSTRALIANS NOW, WHAT TIPS DOES SQUARE HAVE FOR BUSINESSES LOOKING TO RETAIN CUSTOMERS AND CONTINUE TO GROW?

“The important things for businesses to be doing to grow during these times are to sell wherever their customers are, automate tasks, and delight their clients. Here are a few ways that can be done:

Sell online: create an online booking site and integrate into your social channels. Develop a social media strategy to catch the attention of local customers that might be interested in your business.

Automate marketing: Square Marketing helps businesses bring

back lapsed customers, keep current customers engaged with promotions or discounts, or just to keep clients in the loop with changes to the business.

New revenue streams: Identify new revenue streams such as selling retail in-store and online, running classes or workshops to demonstrate how to style hair at home. Alternatively, you could offer subscriptions that customers could redeem throughout a period of time.

Reward loyalty: Tech like Square Loyalty are powerful tools to incentivise repeat visitation with rewards for your customers.

Provide other ways to pay (such as Afterpay): Buy now, pay later is an important budgeting tool for consumers. Offering BNPL at the check-out helps cost-conscious shoppers more easily budget their money and reduce the upfront burden.”

HOW ARE BUSINESSES TURNING TO TECHNOLOGY TO SOLVE SOME OF THESE OTHER OPERATIONAL CHALLENGES?

“Managing the day-to-day operations of a salon is challenging, so ensuring you have a POS system that can automate a lot of manual tasks is critical. Here are a few ways that can help:

Streamline bookings: Setting up online bookings through a custom website and social integrations is one of the easiest ways to lighten your load - enabling customers to manage their own appointments while the technology handles automated appointment reminders and management of late cancellations / no shows with ease.

Make better business decisions: Ensuring you have access to all your business data to see where you are generating the most sales revenue and which areas might need a little attention. You can also track and monitor staff performance to see who your star performers are and where extra training may be needed.

Improve your clients’ experience: Customer management capabilities are an essential component of any salon POS. Tracking your client’s appointment history, adding important notes and files to their profile, tracking products they’ve previously used, as well as sending out marketing and loyalty promotions are important strategies to ensure customers keep coming back.

Manage and incentivise staff: Make sure your POS system can set you and your team up for success. Set staff schedules, permissions and commissions and ensure you track your team’s performance.”

WHAT ARE THE BIG TECH TRENDS YOU SEE FOR BEAUTY BUSINESSES IN THE FUTURE?

“The biggest tech trend we’re seeing in the industry is hyperpersonalisation. Beauty companies are increasingly focused on consumer intimacy to create a personalised, engaging and immersive consumer experience to foster consumer loyalty. Initiatives in this space include:

Integration of internet of things, facial recognition, conversational commerce, and augmented reality to orchestrate the buying experience.

Integration of mobile apps, skin scanners and analysers and AI to detect skin conditions.

Optimisation for personalised product discovery through voice search via Alexa, Siri and Google Assistant.”

Want to learn more about how Square can help your business? Visit square.com/appointments

Cathryn Reed, Product Marketing Manager

ELLEEBANA

Owner/Director Otto Mitter

TELL US ONE OF THE BIGGEST BUSINESS CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FOUND DURING YOUR 25 YEARS PLUS IN BUSINESS?

‘As your business grows so does your list of to do’s. Elleebana has survived and prospered on a journey that is now 28 years wise in the beauty industry and to have that longevity you require resilience, grit and a tonne of inspiration and motivation. We have actually had some of our most successful years to date recently, 28 years on and still growing more than ever and distributing to 60 countries globally, that is no easy feat. During the growth phase the biggest challenge has been undoubtedly time management. This is the one thing that adds a lot of stress to a business owner and leads to the feeling of being overwhelmed and wanting to give up. If I look at an average day for myself, I’m wearing quite a few hats as the company owner / managing director, I have to make key decisions daily that may relate to HR with our team, operations with production of products, logistics with the supply chain with our worldwide distributors and the successful development and roll out of products and launches, scheduled productions for inventory and GMP compliance. I then also work very closely with the marketing and events department, guiding the team with the direction of our marketing and key areas of strategy and support that we need to focus on with sales and content generation. I also manage customer relations and technical support. I’m the principal educator so I guide the content and strategy for our education programs and I’m a regular speaker / writer / contributor at worldwide events and industry media channels. These tasks are just a few that fall into my description and I’m most importantly a husband and father of two. If I can’t manage my time effectively, then it feels incredibly overwhelming and exhausting mentally and physically.”

HOW HAVE YOU MANAGED TO TACKLE THE ISSUE?

“Learning the art of hyper focusing has been really important to help me get through my day. There’s lot’s of tools I use to keep on track such as work in progress reports, spreadsheets and project management software so I can visually see where I’m up to and what is being achieved. But you can have all the software in the world to help you, but without the core discipline and hyper focus, you’ll just get side-tracked in your never ending list. The biggest struggle is staying in the moment and not wandering off into the world of “What if?” That is what hyper focusing is about. I do work in an office and warehouse so if I’m on the computer a lot that day I work for 25 mins with no breaks and then have a quick five minute break,

but during that break I don’t sit there checking Instagram, I do some walking, moving, get the blood moving and then sit back down for another hyper focused 25 mins and I find that can help with productivity. I find that responding to situations rather than spending time reacting to them is also effective, time is your most valuable asset in business, don’t waste it.”

WITH SO MANY STOCKISTS – WHAT BUSINESS SUPPORT AND SOLUTIONS DO YOU OFFER TO THEM?

“Our model has many layers of support and solutions for our different stakeholders. We supply distributors, educators and salon owners who in turn perform services on the public, so we need specific support packages that are tailored to everyone’s needs. Product innovation and education are the key components of our brands ethos when it comes to setting our partners up for success.

Our distributors need customised product information files along with education and marketing packages that showcase all the benefits to salon owners, whereas our salon partners and educators require specific programs that go deeper into the application and theory of the treatment process. Our education programs also give educators and salon owners the tools to effectively market the services so that they can have successful outcomes and increase revenue. Our passion for inspirational education is reflected in the many awards Elleebana has received over the years and we take huge pride in inspiring our Elleenetwork and the industry as a whole. We have held our annual international symposiums for seven years running now in the USA and EU which allows that personal connection between the Elleebana family of distributors and educators and gives us the chance to perfect our systems, education delivery and importantly inspire our team to keep lifting to new heights with the array of industry leaders and guests that we have speaking at our symposiums.”

TELL US YOUR BUSINESS INNOVATIONS FOR 2023

“What I can say is we are expanding our offerings across the entire range. I’ve seen many brands come and go throughout my time and to have longevity in the industry you need patience and extensive research when it comes to expansion. Many brands want to buy every new type of product and trend that is released in an effort to capture the market, but my ethos has always been, don’t worry about being first, just worry about being the best. Elleebana has pioneered the way with lash lift for 20 years now, we can proudly say we were the first to contribute with a number of elements to this part of the industry, but we carefully consider our pathway to ensure it has our customers best interests at heart. Over the years many brands have jumped on board to release new products in their range an effort to purely increase revenue for the brand, which I understand and agree is important, however my focus has always been about creating products that have substance and a true benefit and need for the client, rather than just being the latest trend that is going to die off in a few months. Quality coupled with innovation will reign supreme and also gives you a trusted reputation which is an essential ingredient on the path to longevity and success.”

www.elleebana.com

CURTIS COLLECTION

Founder Victoria Curtis

TELL US ONE OF THE BIGGEST BUSINESS CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FOUND DURING YOUR 12 YEARS PLUS IN BUSINESS?

“The biggest challenge that I personally faced was adapting quickly to the very fast growth that we experienced in the initial years. My brand went from 0 to 100 within our first year of business, which was brilliant in theory, however this called for serious changes to our processes and procedures in order to maintain quality and not compromise on our customer service.”

HOW HAVE YOU MANAGED TO TACKLE THE ISSUE?

“I had the foresight to see where the business was heading, so I worked on developing systems to make us more efficient in the back end, so that we could remain focused on servicing our growing customer base, which was ultimately the most important factor of

all. It was all about time management and streamlining each and every aspect of the business. I assessed every process that took us time and put a system in place that took care of it for us. This also freed up my time to get out there and sell! Our stockist list had grown from one stockist to 100 within a year. I learnt to never say ‘no’ to anyone! Even if we thought we couldn’t take on the challenge, I would say ‘yes’ and work the rest out later. It forced me to work smarter and harder... and I never missed an opportunity when I adopted this attitude.”

WITH SO MANY STOCKISTS – WHAT BUSINESS SUPPORT AND SOLUTIONS DO YOU OFFER TO THEM?

“We learnt early on that our stockist had as little time as we did to process orders, organise in store training and so on. So we developed an exclusive website for our stockist where they could access all things Curtis Collection on their own time and their own schedule. An information hub if you will. They can place their orders on this website, watch video tutorials, download social media imagery and access product information. The time this saved us all was phenomenal. I believe strongly in supporting our stockists and educate most of them myself. When I cannot be present, this exclusive stockist only website is basically an extension of me in store. I also developed an online ‘Makeup Styling Guide’ that allows our stockist to enter the colour tones of their client, eyes, skin, hair etc and our guide will suggest the most suitable shades in our collection for their clients colour profile. Yet another business solution that saves our stockists time in store. It’s also a fun, interactive way for our stockists to introduce their clients to the brand.”

TELL US YOUR BUSINESS INNOVATIONS FOR 2023 AND BEYOND?

“This year we are working on new video tutorials and expanding our product offering to our stockists. We have an exciting new range launching in a space we have never touched on before. A personal challenge for myself and something completely fresh and exciting for our retailers.”

www.curtiscollection.com.au

“IT WAS ALL ABOUT TIME MANAGEMENT AND STREAMLINING EACH AND EVERY ASPECT OF THE BUSINESS. I ASSESSED EVERY PROCESS THAT TOOK US TIME AND PUT A SYSTEM IN PLACE THAT TOOK CARE OF IT FOR US.”

You do what you do best — we’ll handle the rest.

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Set up unlimited staff calendars and seamlessly schedule your team from your desktop or our mobile app – free.

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Manage clients with automated confirmation and reminder notifications, notes and profiles.

DERMATONICS

TELL US ONE OF THE BIGGEST BUSINESS CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED IN YOUR BUSINESS?

“One of the biggest challenges that we have experienced in the past is getting our name out there as an emerging Australian clinic-exclusive skincare range. There is a lot of ‘noise’ out there with social media, marketing, emails, commercials and more. We are processing so much new information each day and we keep witnessing new skincare ranges pop up. Everyone is very busy all the time, therefore we have minimal opportunity to really capture that attention of the busy clinic owner. We had to work hard to get our name Dermatonics out there, in front of skin clinic business owners, grabbing and holding their attention. Skin clinics want a professional brand that is exclusive to them and that they can trust and integrate into their business, their baby. Therefore, a key point in growing as a professional brand was to gain not only the attention of a clinic owner, also the trust of our industry.”

HOW HAVE YOU MANAGED TO OVERCOME THAT CHALLENGE?

“A large part of what we have done to overcome this challenge is to ensure we give to our industry. Knowledge is key. Sharing our knowledge, our ethos, and the personality of our business has been key in clinics beginning to know, like and trust us. These are key features in businesses wanting to work with you. Why would a business work with you if they don’t know who you are, what you do, and know that your values align with theirs? Being present at industry events, especially the smaller more intimate ones, has been a key contributing factor in helping us be ‘seen’. Sharing education, connecting with clinic owners, hearing their stories and sharing ours has been a great avenue to connect and collaborate with amazing businesses. This is something that we will continue to do in our business journey, giving to the industry, connecting with people, and learning from business owners and therapists as well. We also invest in our potential clinic partners. We invest our time and share products with them so they can experience our brand before they make their big business decision. This has been a very important part in gaining that trust and allow them to know us before committing. Incorporating a new skincare range is a big part of a clinic’s business and thus we want to make that transition as easy as possible for them.”

WITH SO MANY STOCKISTS – WHAT BUSINESS SUPPORT AND SOLUTIONS DO YOU OFFER TO THEM?

“As we grow, we continually want to ensure that we are connecting with our clinic partners, sharing with them, educating and, most important, listening to them. We have implemented different strategies so that we may stay connected with them continually and provide solutions for our clinic partners. We have a closed Facebook group that we share in, allow a safe space for our clinics to communicate with each other and a space for us to share training and valuable resources. We also make sure we gain insight from our clinic partners through our communication with them. New products and new training materials are often created as a result of amazing conversations and feedback from our clinic owners and therapists. We also provide key marketing materials and in clinic materials for our partners and work with them through our clinic and therapist rewards programs, helping them to grow in their business and reward them.”

YOU ALSO HAVE SOME GREAT EDUCATION SESSIONS TELL US ABOUT THAT…

“We provide continuous Mini Education Sessions for our clinic partners that encompass product, formulation, skin condition and ingredient knowledge. In person training days occur at least twice a year in key locations around the country, both at facilities where multiple clinic owners and therapists can come together and within clinic facilities themselves for businesses that have teams we train and educate all together. These various training day formats allow tailored events that enable clinic partners to connect with each other and learn and allows teams to be trained within their own business. We have a team of area managers that we work with that are in consistent contact with our clinic owners, checking in on them, helping them with their business and connecting between them and us as the founders of Dermatonics. Connection with our clinic partners is and always will be a very key part of our business, as we truly enjoy the community that has been created and the family feeling of Dermatonics clinic partners.”

TELL US YOUR BUSINESS INNOVATIONS FOR 2023 AND BEYOND?

“There is so much that we have in store for 2023 and beyond. There is an ever-growing list of amazing new products that we are formulating and working towards launching, both retail and professional, including a fabulous innovation in a tool that will allow therapists to gain insights and data of a client’s inner wellbeing and responses in particular skin conditions. Education is a very big part of where we want to expand, growing our clinic training days to twoday events with further and deeper education and business building workshops. We are also working towards building education and training that goes beyond our clinic partners. We are so passionate about the science of skin and formulations; we will be building educational arms in our business that are not only for our clinic partners. We are also looking forward to a special annual event for our clinic partners as we grow that will be both about education and rewarding the wonderful business owners and therapists that we are so fortunate to work with. We are so excited for where Dermatonics is heading and how we are growing, and we never want to lose sight of our business values and purpose along the way.”

www.dermatonics.com.au

Founder Donna Marcal

Learn to formulate your own skin care range

Qualify as a recognised Cosmetic Chemist by graduating with the 10788NAT Diploma of Personal Care Formulation. With flexible online study modes and start dates - there’s no better time to start!

10788NAT Diploma of Personal Care Formulation

VET Student Loans approved course*

VET Student Loans will not be approved for students who do not meet eligibility requirements. A VET Loan gives rise to a VETSL debt that continues to be a debt due to the Commonwealth until it is repaid.

Course fee - $9,900*

For more info, visit: aacds.edu.au or email: enquiries@aacds.edu.au Niche Education Group Pty Ltd (trading as) - Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science | RTO: 51373

Interested in formulating your own range of personal care products?

The 107088NAT Diploma of Personal Care Formulation is offered throughout Australia by Australasian Academy of Cosmetic Dermal Science (AACDS). AACDS is Australia’s premier college established to meet all learners educational needs in personal care formulation, dermal therapies and cosmetic nursing.

The Diploma is the ideal qualification for anyone wishing to begin a career in formulating their own personal care products or for those already are in the formulating game who want to formalise their knowledge and skills through gaining a nationally recognised qualification. Other career options include Research and Development Scientists, Production / Compounding Managers and Assistants and Regulatory affairs Personnel.

The Diploma provides a comprehensive approach to teaching the formulation of safe, stable and efficacious personal care products for hair, hands, body and face. It also covers the development of products from the concept stage through to reverse engineering. Learners are taught how to prepare a variety of personal care products, adapt formulations to suit organisational requirements and develop products based on the latest industry advances.

AACDS recognises the need to offer flexible course options and study modes therefore the theory component of this course is offered either fulltime or part time via online study. The theory is supported with the provision of practical activity kits so learners can immediately begin learning to formulate from their own homes. AACDS students are further supported with a hands on two day practical workshops conducted by industry experts in Sydney, Perth and Melbourne throughout the year.

The formulation of personal care products can be as diverse as the companies who offer them and only restricted by the developers imagination. If you are looking for an exciting career in a dynamic industry then studying the Diploma of Personal Care Formulation is for you.

Loans and other payment options are available to study this course. Apply today by contacting enquiries@aacds.edu.au or visit our website www.aacd.edu.au

Linda Sim, MBA, Dip Cos Science. CEO of Niche Education Group T/A AACDS

BEYOND EXPECTATIONS

When founders Georgie Mariouklas (Chief Executive Officer) and Larry Prosser (Executive Director) established Beyond Payments over a decade ago, they set out with the goal of providing a service to businesses that made accepting payments easy. With that core purpose in mind, they have developed a range of tailored payment solutions that are designed to not only meet their customer’s needs but exceed them.

Today Beyond Payments offer a full suite of services from payment gateways to virtual terminals and reporting as well as ordering and payments apps. Whether it is in person or online, Beyond Payments will tailor a payment solution that’s right for their respective client’s business. Their most popular product however continues to be their ‘Feeless’ service. Larry Posser explains their intent in addressing complex and excessive card processing fees.

“Payments have always been complicated and hard to understand, especially when it comes to surcharging. The cost of the convenient ‘tap and go’ has markedly increased the costs associated with accepting card payments. This, and the move to a cashless society, has meant a steep increase in merchant fees for small and medium sized businesses,” Prosser says.

“We figured running a business was hard enough without all this confusion around how to accept customer payment, not to mention these incredibly high card payment processing fees. So, we established our business to address those issues, but most importantly, we wished to do so in a fully compliant manner. Dare I say it, that’s where a lot of service providers get it wrong.”

Beyond Payment’s Feeless service enables their customers to recover 100% of their merchant service costs. They were reportedly the first, fully compliant, feeless payment processing solution in Australia, and are still the market leader.

“With more and more customers opting to pay on card, businesses can’t continue to foot the bill. Card transactional fees

increase the costs of doing business, slowly chipping into your hard-earned profits. Therefore, there is real value in eliminating those costs and that is what our Feeless service is designed to do, but as I mentioned, it must be done in a compliant manner,” he said.

It is this reference to “compliance” that is as interesting as the presented savings. Surely all service providers in this space deliver a compliant service?

“The short answer is no. Many service offerings are not compliant. Indeed, many business owners are unaware of the ACCC and RBA laws centered around credit and debit card payment processing fees. This puts your business at risk of running foul of these regulatory bodies, potentially incurring huge fines.

“Our card payment processing solutions are 100% compliant with these laws. Thus, our clients can rest easy, knowing that their business is always in abidance with the law.”

By simply passing on a payment processing fee, Beyond Payments Feeless service enable their clients to recover 100% of their merchant service fees compliantly. Furthermore, there is zero merchant service fees and rental costs, in fact, there’s no additional costs at all.

“We’ll even cover the cost of our clients eftpos terminal paper rolls.

“Another appeal of our Feeless service however is our same day settlement. We understand that cash flow is king. So, we ensure all funds are automatically settled on the eftpos terminal on the same day of transactions. That’s different to many other service providers.”

It’s this focus on the customer and their needs as a business that has put Beyond Payments in good stead. You can see this customer centric approach emanating from all aspects of their business.

“We know all this payment processing stuff can be quite technical and daunting, let alone getting all the tech to talk with POS systems and the like, that’s why we’re more than happy to take the time, meet with our prospective clients in person and walk through a tailored solution for their business. It’s an old-fashioned thing called ‘customer service’ which we pride ourselves on.

“We understand that is what people are crying out for it, in this day and age with online help desks, recorded telephone prompters and the like. Real people to assist them, to meet with them and discuss a tailored solution that’s right for their business and help with installing the products we offer. And aside from our dedicated customer support team, we also provide all our customers with 24/7, local technical support right here in Australia.”

As far as the future is concerned, Beyond Payments are focused on understanding the ever-changing needs of their merchants, continuing to make their lives around accepting payments fast, easy and secure.

“We’re presently overseeing the development of a very exciting, new and innovative range of products including soft POS and loyalty rewards. We are certainly continuing to strive to deliver on our promise of providing market-leading eCommerce solutions to our clients,” Prosser says.

www.beyondpayments.com.au

Founders Georgie Mariouklas and Larry Prosser

DERMALOGICA’S SALICYLIC ACID SOLUTION

Dermalogica’s latest innovation, Salicylic Acid 15% Gel Peel is the first chemical peel of its kind, as it’s formulated to work on the skin despite common conditions associated with blemishes, such as inflamed breakouts, pustules, papules, ingrown hair, impaired barrier, comedones, milia, scar tissue, and keloid or hypertrophic scars. This gel peel is formulated with 15% salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid known for its maximum efficacy when targeting active, sensitised skin imperfections.

As a professional skin therapist, the Salicylic Acid 15% Gel Peel is your new go-to for patients with active, sensitised blemishes. By using this innovative peel, you can help your patients achieve clear, healthy-looking skin in no time.

Dermalogica’s Mediclinic training manager, Sarah Hughes (inset) chats about this new innovative product.

WHY DID DERMALOGICA PRO DEVELOP THE NEW SALICYLIC ACID 15% GEL PEEL?

“Active, sensitised blemishes are among the top reasons people seek professional skin treatments. Clients and patients are often disheartened and helpless and one of the most common mistakes people make is trying to take care of blemishes without the expertise of a professional. Many professional treatment options include chemical peels with very low pH levels, and this can cause additional inflammation before treatment has even started. Solutions for this concern are limited and not all have demonstrated efficacy or provide outstanding clinical results. That’s why at Dermalogica, we’re always developing ways to help you meet your patient’s needs in the treatment room.”

WHAT RESULTS CAN WE EXPECT WITH THIS PRODUCT?

“When you recommend the Salicylic Acid 15% Gel Peel to your clients, they can expect quick and effective results. The peel helps clear blemishes, calm redness, and reduce the irritation associated with skin imperfections, all while being safe and gentle for sensitive skin types.

Another benefit of the Salicylic Acid 15% Gel Peel is that it works to decrease the production of sebum (excess oil), while promoting a brighter, more even skin tone. This makes it an ideal

option for patients who struggle with oily skin and blemishes, as well as those dealing with hyperpigmentation or uneven skin tone.”

WHAT’S INSIDE THE FORMULA?

“15% Salicylic Acid, a powerful breakout fighter that minimises sebum production to unclog pores and loosens desmosomes that will stimulate skin’s natural exfoliation process. Albatrellus mushroom protects the skin from heat stress, reduces redness, and helps to immediately soothe any inflammation by blocking pain receptors in the skin. Meanwhile, white shiitake mushroom is rich in beta glucans and provides a soothing effect upon application. This mushroom extract is also a powerhouse at brightening the skin and improving skin radiance, thanks to its high concentration of enzymes. With this unique ingredient blend, the Salicylic Acid 15% Gel Peel not only prevents inflammation during treatment but also helps to reduce any post-treatment inflammation, ensuring that your patients receive an outstanding treatment with minimal discomfort.”

Available for Dermalogica stockists starting 8th May, 2023. https://pro.dermalogica.com.au/about

“New salicylic acid 15% gel peel targets active, sensitized skin imperfections.”

KAREN MURRELL

Karen Murrell is a New Zealand-based entrepreneur known for her eponymous lipstick brand, Karen Murrell. Ariana Pezeshki spoke with Karen about her brand which is recognised for producing natural, cruelty-free lipsticks that are made from high-quality, sustainably sourced ingredients and her heartfelt approach in the sustainable beauty landscape.

KAREN MURRELL is passionate about creating lipsticks that are both environmentally friendly and luxurious. Her lipsticks are made with natural waxes, oils, and pigments, and do not contain any synthetic preservatives, fragrances, or mineral oils. The lipsticks are also free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and sulphates, making them safe and gentle for the lips. She believes that those who wear lipstick should not have to sacrifice their health or the environment with harsh chemicals. Inspired by the beautiful crimson Pohutukawa Blooms of 2008 along with the influence of Karen’s Nana Gwen, Karen Murrell lipstick was born.

Karen was inspired to create her own sustainable lipstick brand 15 years ago when she says, “There were no sustainable lipsticks on the market and this sparked inspiration.” The brand founder believes everyone deserves to wear beautiful, clean and long-lasting lipstick with the tagline she coined in the early beginnings of the brand ‘Nothing nasty touches my lips’ that fans of the brand will recognise today.

Since the brand’s inception, the lipsticks were formulated in five shades. Since then the natural lipstick range has enhanced the beauty across different complexions without sacrifice and remaining true to the brand’s ethos of sustainability. The ingredients allow for a hydrating and nourishing application while being treated with every swipe. Karen says that “Lip

hydration levels increase every time you wear our lipsticks, our lipsticks are creamy, smooth and heavenly to wear.”

The desire to create a clean natural lipstick brand came naturally to Karen, “I grew up in very rural New Zealand, my hometown is Te Awamutu which is in the Waikato. Growing up in rural New Zealand during the 1970s we lived very clean, sustainable lives. Most people had gardens and grew their own food. I remember my grandmother making soap and her own cosmetics and it was normal for me to have clean, natural products,” Karen said.

One of the notable features of Karen Murrell lipsticks is the creative form of eco-friendly packaging made from renewable and recyclable materials. Each lipstick is packaged and printed with vegetable-based inks on sustainably sourced paper by an FSC-certified printing company, which also means that they are committed to caring for forests.

As of late, the brand has received

many requests for samples, which Karen recognises is a loss for sustainability even though samples may be a win in some respects. “The large majority of plastic packaging used for beauty products goes unrecycled, either due to improper sorting or size (plastics less than three inches in height are typically too small to be processed in recycling facilities. These plastics eventually end up in landfills or bodies of water, where they continue to break up into smaller — and more dangerous — microplastic particles until the end of time,” Karen said.

“These particles then infiltrate the air and the soil and are consumed by both marine life and humans. According to Greenpeace, plastic never fully decomposes, meaning every piece of plastic ever created still exists.”

Karen Murrell lipsticks are not tested on animals. Additionally, the brand supports various charitable causes and organisations, including environmental and

social initiatives. Karen shared that ‘women ingest 2kg of lipstick over a lifetime’, with this in mind the brand is proud to present products that are ‘free from all nasties’ and free of coal tar, carmine, triclosan, parabens, or mineral oils.

The lipstick brand has gained a global following from its humble beginnings and her lipsticks are sold in numerous countries worldwide. Karen’s lipsticks have been

praised for their quality, performance, and commitment to natural and sustainable beauty and Karen says that brand loyalty is high. “How we look at customers has changed so much in my career. The original target market philosophy is out the door. My customers are lipstick lovers, from a mother to a daughter to friends from school who collaboratively find our lipstick together through Instagram or someone who simply stumbles across our brand in person. What we do know is that lipstick has a very intimate resignation,” Karen said.

The lipsticks are designed to be highly pigmented, providing rich colour that lasts throughout the day without fading or feathering. The lipstick glides effortlessly with the pure and natural formula that consists of avocado and evening primrose oils, candelilla, carnauba wax, cinnamon, and sweet orange.

Inspired by nature, beautiful flowers, shape and colour the brand believes that beautiful lipstick can brighten a room like a bouquet of fresh blooms - which is at the heart of captivating confidence and inspires everything the brand strives to do.

Karen’s dream of creating a sustainable lipstick brand was met with hesitation in the brand’s inception, she said, “Initially finding a manufacturer that would take me on and that would even think about a natural lipstick was impossible 16 years ago. However, after a few knocks, I found a long-established manufacturer in Melbourne, it is fair to say our love story began then and still continues to this day.”

Despite the brands’ success, Karen remains humble when asked how she felt about being a successful woman in the beauty industry, “Success is a strange word. Your professional life or business is never linear. There are so many factors that can affect our brands now more than ever before. Experience or time in our craft teaches us how to manoeuvre the good times and the unexpected things that pop up. I really enjoy my career, if you had said to me as a teen I was going to be doing this now as a 49-year-old woman I am not sure I would have believed you,” Karen said.

Karen Murrell, the brand and founder are goal oriented for the year ahead, Karen said, “This year I am very focused on refreshing our look throughout Australia and Asia and I am taking a much more hands-on approach to this more than ever before and I always love to hear customer feedback.” n

“Lip hydration levels increase every time you wear our lipsticks, our lipsticks are creamy, smooth and heavenly to wear.”

MAKEUP MAESTRO

Founder of Bombshell Beauty Academy and Australia’s only dedicated makeup conference, Kimmie Fox is a master of many. Hannah Gay chats to the educator on the ongoing relevance makeup services play in 2023.

Kimmie, I understand you launched Bombshell Beauty Academy in 2018. What led you to do this?

“I launched Bombshell Beauty Academy because I wanted to create a space where beauty enthusiasts and aspiring makeup artists could come together to learn, connect and grow. As a beauty therapist with over a decade of experience, I saw a need for high-quality education that went beyond just technical skills. I wanted to create a supportive community where students could develop their confidence, creativity, and business acumen.

I also wanted to challenge the traditional beauty industry narrative that often focuses on unrealistic beauty standards and competition. At Bombshell Beauty Academy, we prioritise inclusivity, diversity and empowerment. We believe that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and colours, and that everyone deserves to feel confident and beautiful in their own skin.

Overall, launching Bombshell Beauty Academy was a natural next step for me. I’m passionate about the beauty industry, and I wanted to use my skills and experience to make a positive impact and help others succeed.”

How many courses do you offer via your academy?

“I’m proud to say that we offer a wide range of courses to meet the needs of our students. In total, we offer 28 different courses which can be completed online, in-person at our academy, or through blended learning.

Our goal is to provide comprehensive, hands-on training that prepares our students for successful careers in the

beauty industry no matter the employment path they take, whether it be working for themselves or for an employer. We’re always updating and expanding our course offerings to ensure that our students have access to the latest techniques, trends and technologies.”

What percentage of your courses are offered online versus offered in-person?

“We offer all of our courses in a variety of formats. We believe it’s important to cater to each student’s unique learning style and provide flexibility in the way our courses are delivered.

If a student enrols in an online course and feels they need more support, we offer a one-off training fee for existing students to join our in-person classes. This allows our students to get the most out of their education and have the support they need to succeed.

Therefore, it’s difficult to give an exact percentage of courses offered online versus in-person, as it varies depending on the course and the needs of the students. But we strive to offer options that are accessible and effective for all.”

Name the three most popular beauty courses students undertake with you. “The Beginners Makeup Course is perfect for those who are new to makeup or looking to refine their skills. This course covers basic makeup application techniques, including foundation, eye makeup, contouring, and highlighting. Students will learn how to create a range of makeup looks, from natural and everyday to glamorous and special occasion. Our Classic Eyelash Extensions Course is another popular option, providing students with the skills and knowledge to create beautiful, natural-looking lash extensions. Students will learn how to apply individual lash extensions, as well as proper lash hygiene and maintenance.

Finally, our Eyebrow Waxing Course is a popular choice for those interested in shaping and grooming eyebrows. This course covers a range of techniques for waxing and shaping eyebrows, as well as proper sanitation and aftercare.

These courses have all been designed to provide comprehensive, hands-on training that prepares our students for successful careers in the beauty industry.”

I also noticed you’ve developed a product line under the Bombshell brand. Tell us about this. “Yes! We offer a range of makeup products that are designed to help both students and professional makeup artists achieve stunning looks. Our products are designed to complement our particular style of makeup that we teach at Bombshell Beauty Academy, and we are proud to offer a range of products that are both highquality and affordable.”

Our eyeshadow palettes and face palettes are highly pigmented and offer a range of shades and finishes, from matte to shimmery. These palettes are perfect for creating natural, everyday looks as well as bold, dramatic looks for special occasions. Our loose pigments come in a variety of shades and can be used on the eyes, lips, and even as a highlighter. Our strip lashes are also a must-have in any makeup routine, and we offer a variety of styles to suit every occasion. As a makeup artist, I know the importance of using high-quality brushes. Our brushes are made with high-

quality materials and designed for easy use. We also offer a variety of lash extension accessories, including adhesives, tweezers, and under-eye pads.”

I understand Makeup Con 2023 was the first you’ve held, and the first makeup-only conference held in Australia! Why did you feel the need to develop this event?

“I have personally experienced bullying and discrimination in this industry. It made me feel like I didn’t belong, and I knew there must be a better way. I wanted to create an event that would bring together the makeup community - to connect, inspire and empower eachother.”

How many guests attended this year’s Makeup Con?

“I’m happy to say that we had a great turnout at this year’s Makeup Con, with 140 guests in attendance throughout the day. It was so amazing to see so many people come together to form meaningful connections, and to celebrate and learn about the art of makeup. We are thrilled with the positive feedback we received and are already planning our next event in Sydney.”

What occupations/training did attendees generally hold?

“I can say that our Makeup Con event attracted a diverse range of attendees from various beauty-related professions. We had makeup artists, retail makeup workers,

beauty therapists, and content creators among the guests who attended the event. It was great to see such a diverse group of people coming together to share their knowledge and passion for makeup.”

What were some of the key things you hoped your guests would take away from Makeup Con 2023?

“My hope was for makeup artists to have the opportunity to expand their professional network, form new connections and friendships, and gain valuable knowledge and skills to enhance their careers. I strongly believe in the importance of continuous learning and staying up-to-date with industry trends, regardless of how long someone has been in the field. My goal was to provide a platform for our guests to take their success to new heights.”

What role do you see makeup services playing in Australian beauty salons today and in the future? And furthermore, why should salon owners invest in professional makeup brands and artists as a part of their business?

“As a makeup artist and educator, I strongly believe that makeup services have become an essential part of beauty salons in Australia. Investing in professional makeup brands and artists can provide a significant boost to a salon’s bottom line, as makeup services continue to grow in popularity and demand.

However, it’s not just about having the right products and artists; salon owners also need to ensure that their artists receive ongoing training. As the beauty industry continues to evolve, upskilling is crucial to maintain a competitive edge and provide clients with the best possible service. By investing in professional makeup brands and artists, and offering ongoing training and development opportunities, salon owners can create a dynamic, thriving business that keeps up with the demands of today’s beauty market.”

Final thoughts?

“I believe it’s important to continue pushing boundaries and innovating, while also prioritising inclusivity and diversity. At Bombshell Beauty, we strive to create a welcoming and supportive community where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background or experience level." n

“I wanted to create an event that would bring together the makeup community - to connect, inspire and empower eachother.”

THE

ETHEREAL EXPERIENCE

Designing and choreographing every treatment at her Paddington escape Venustus is a passion for founder Jeannie Bourke. She chats to Anita Quade about bringing together an elite group of artisans who have been crafting their skills with her for decades.

WHEN YOU enter the Venustus space on bustling Oxford Street, there is an immediate calm in the white and light space. It’s early on Saturday morning and owner Jeannie asks me to choose my favourite stone to place in my hand while she smudges the space in a ceremony of sage, palo santo and incense. The ethereal magic in the salon is intoxicating as she gauges energy levels and sets the healing process in motion.

I sat down with the inventive founder –whose treatment list is carefully curated to offer a smorgasboard of treatments tailored to the individual to discuss her skincare journey and what the future holds.

My favourite memory on my beauty journey is “Opening my business on Oxford Street, Paddington, Sydney, Australia and recently purchasing my first commercial property next door on Oxford Street, Paddington, Sydney am so proud of such community spirit.”

The toughest time I faced in business...

“There are so many tough times in business, the toughest was the decisions I made in 2019 just before Covid. I was purchasing all our packaging on such a level, to last the life of Venustus, loved it, jumping up and down when it arrived. I purchased my first commercial property next door to this salon in Oxford Street and then Covid hit and I thought I would lose it all. I can literally work 7 days a week for decades, when you have to and there are times you have to, if

you want to keep your business for life, but when you can’t work what can you do?

My son Zac said to me, Mum you have built a really great business, you have worked really hard to create and keep up this incredible level – so get up and it will work out. You can really hear this from people you love and who love you.”

You mention the community culture on the street – tell us about that?

“Oxford St Paddington has to be one of the hardest streets to make it on, over the three decades I have seen so many open and close, so many lose their businesses due to so many changes, two councils divide Oxford street I have had to work seven days a week for nearly all of my 30 years. It

has felt during all this, no one seems to ask and then take the advice from, the people who live here and the people who work here and own businesses here about what changes they feel will help the area.”

My favourite part about the Venustus space is my new space

“There are deliberate cold and warm pods for therapist and guests, an underfloor crystal architecture that is linked to the sun and moon portals via our metal staircase. Our rooftop pharmacy where all our home care and in room treatments are made by plants. Using metal, the most ancient material of all to be a portal to both the moon and the sun as well as the crystals buried beneath our foundation.

We could’ve bought anything on the street but we landed on 383 because of predisposition and love and reference for the number eight, when the eggs are joined together also form a singular number eight.

We want everyone’s parasympathetic nervous system to be relieved the minute they walk in to our secure doors. It’s for that reason that we have declined the business model of having merchandise and take home product on our shelves. We want every part of your cognitive to be rested and we believe the luxury of looking at nothing but feeling the environment, is the best way to perform our work.”

I would choose this treatment from my menu because…

“I would choose whatever treatment has just been launched because it’s an evolution of our training and experience. Some of my favourites include;

Six hand body massage – it was so much fun choreographing this treatment - the ultimate gift

Sculpt & Define Lymphatic Facial 30th 40th 50th Birthday

Osaka to Sydney Packager – husband, brother, father

Time – best friend gift

Online bookings + Online Vouchers are the biggest gift with an option of *wrap up & collect instore.”

I have managed to retain loyal staff for more than 20 years or more because…

“I really value them and value what they have to say, what they feel. They have incredible ideas and it is always, always about the work. We all love training and launching new treatments and we don’t have sales product targets, re-booking targets, their salaries are work related, how great they have become each and every year.

There has to be nothing in it for them to recommend a product to a client, nothing in it for them to recommend when a client should rebook. I think this is what makes them authentically unique and allows them to easily hold on to their integrity and honesty.”

I choose staff based on…

“Who they are, incredibly whole hearted, kind, compassionate and wish to strive for greatness for every person, everyday. Loyalty, trust and honesty are the most important qualities for me. Striving for ethics, integrity and a moral code. I really like them, we spend more time with each other than anyone else. I can train anything/everything skills wise, if they are open, we can evolve the work. It can be a lot joining us, with over a hundred years of experience. But if you truly want to be beyond incredible and have a kind heart, we are for you.”

I stay motivated by…. “I don’t have any trouble with motivation, I am naturally motivated, I know 100% it is up to me…

Staying inspired – I am drawn to and spend time with people who are inspiring. We give each other ideas, we are excited about what we are doing. Stay curious, think of the wonder in it all and most importantly create, inspire and motivate. Other ways I stay motivated is by riffing with my friend Megan Morton, interior instruction, books, artist, Travel Ambasadress, attending seminars by Philip Fimmano, trend analyst and design curator and enjoying the works of Lidewij Edelkoort, who has written design and fashion books.”

I formulate my own skincare range and this is what I learnt…

“ I was driving through France, discovering aromatherapy companies on the land,

creating blends, in that moment I knew I could design and make my own Venustus skincare, one by one… What I learnt, was that I could elevate each and every treatment by formulating my own skincare. I could delete a product, to make way for a better product without asking anyone, without having to wait until I sold out of the existing product.”

The new interiors of my current space have been inspired by… “The new Venustus doesn’t look like anything else. This is because we have faced our decisions purely on the healing properties of our choice in materials, their ideal placements in coordinates to the underfloor architecture of the crystals and our upstairs rooftop sun moon air and water catchment. A visit here for a couple of hours will feel like time has expanded and your energies will be restored. We have a deliberate mix of both hard materials and super soft materials (like linen & cashmere). We do this because we need to provide not just an elevated environment, but because we aim to make your experience super safe and contained and private, to give you everything we think is needed.

When you are in your pod, you really are in the most sacred, loving and secure of spaces, wrapped in a cone of ancient metal that has healing properties. It’s the exquisiteness you expect from Venustus but not with an atmosphere to match the time you spend with us. If people want to check this out they can view this on our Instagram highlights: New Space @ venustus_australia.”

If I wasn’t the creator of Venustus I would be…

“My first answer is taking my team to the Maldives, to take over their spa for a few weeks, I love stretching the work, but I realise this is not the correct answer, I can’t imagine what else I would ever do.”

The one thing I love most about my personality is...

“I use my editorial background and interior authority to design meaningful and whole hearted atmospheres in the retail, domestic and travel spaces.”

My plan for the next decade is… “As I am known as “the elder” in the industry, take the Venustus experience to another level.” n

“I was driving through France, discovering aromatherapy companies on the land, creating blends, in that moment I knew I could design and make my own Venustus skincare, one by one… What I learnt, was that I could elevate each and every treatment by formulating my own skincare.”

THE STEPS TO A

GREENER FUTURE

QED skincare owner and pharmacist

Shoshana Eisner reveals her move towards making sustainable choices with innovative steps.

By Anita Quade

THE SALON COLLECTION BOX FOR SAMPLE SACHETS

“Two of my bathroom drawers are full of samples I have received over the years. Like many beauty consumers, I love receiving samples with my purchases. I look at them excitedly when I receive them. Maybe 10% of them are suitable for me, so I try those ones. The others are popped in the sample drawer for later or never. I know they are valuable, which is why I can’t throw them out so I hang onto them.

It occurred to me that these samples would be very useful to people living in shelters or in their cars. I discovered a beautiful volunteer organisation called ‘Every Little Bit Helps’ (ELBH). They collect sample-sized toiletries, beauty products and sanitary items and make up kits. They then distribute them through an established network of shelters around Australia.

ELBH needs more samples, more volunteers to run collection points, more volunteer packers (and of course more money)

Your salon customers have drawers full of samples at home. As a salon, you have customers who visit regularly and you have personal relationships with them. This is an easy way to make your business look socially conscious, make your clients feel good and also help out people who are doing it tough. (PLUS the samples don’t end up in landfill! This is Win-Win-Win)

By offering our clients to drop off their unwanted “new-ish” samples of skincare, makeup, fragrance or travel size hair products (from any brands), we can make our clients feel good about repurposing something they have but don’t need.

HOW TO SIGN UP

“We are calling this initiative: ‘Salons for ELBH’. We will enrol like-minded salons who will encourage their clients to bring in their unused samples (of any brand) when they come in for an appointment. Once a month,

we will collect their samples and take them to ELBH. Twice a year, we will host a ‘Salons for ELBH’ morning, where we will invite our members to come pack up the care packs with ELBH with a High Tea. It will be so fun, and we will achieve something good. Initially, I am looking for five socially-minded salons in Sydney’s East and then hope to roll it out. We will have a website where the salons will be featured and a logo kit for the salons to use on their socials and communication.”

SAMPLE CRITERIA

“The purpose of this program is to get the high-quality samples that our clients don’t need into the hands of people who could really do with some TLC, some indulgence and mainly some dignity. So, the products need to be recent and unopened. Also, they need to be small, as the washbags are not too big. Travel size/ Sample size tends to be perfect. We will be inviting salons and brands to also donate samples to the salon box. Our goal is taking advantage of our relationships with our clients to turn a wasted resource into something very useful and making our clients feel good with very little effort.”

REPURPOSING OF SALON MATERIALS

“We are also launching a campaign called ‘Stop recycling! Re-use!’. We want to give people ideas where their items can be re-used or even repurposed.

With the demise of Redcycle, it has opened up our eyes to the fact that recycling is complicated, costly and may not be happening like we think it is. Most of our favourite products are packed in glass jars. Glass is an intriguing packaging material as it is beautiful, resilient and easily sterilised. A glass jar base which has been cleaned and sterilised, looks absolutely brand new. Of course, glass can be recycled. Did you know that the recycling process goes something like this? It needs to be collected, sorted, shipped, smashed, melted,

SIMPLE SWAPS TO GREEN YOUR BRAND

1. Switch to lightweight, fastdrying towels from disposable bedding and facial wipes.

2. Switch to good quality, washable facial masks for your staff, instead of using disposables.

3. Use a front-loading washing machine with a high star energy rating. (According to Choice, front-loaders use up to 70% less water than top-loaders). And don’t forget to choose laundry liquid with a NP logo on it. (This means it has No Phosphorous)

4. Consciously choose printing companies who offer compostable printed materials and adhesive for your marketing items and labels. (and remember to add a compostable/recyclable logo in the corner)

5. Stock & use great-quality, environmentally friendly, Australian skincare products… They have a lower carbon footprint as they haven’t had to travel the world to get to you!

6. Don’t forget to tell your clients. A little sign detailing steps you are taking, makes you look good and makes them feel good about using you as a salon.

re-shaped, shipped and re-delivered - all at great environmental cost. Instead, we are incentivising our customers to return their glass jar bases for a $5 Credit. We then clean and sterilise the jars, at which point they are gleaming and smooth, just like new. We then re-label them and can reuse them. We are offering the $5 incentive because we want to show our customers that this is important. And we value their efforts too.”

THE PROGRAM ETHOS

“We want to sell products packed in packaging which is useful. Packaging which is attractive but won’t go straight to landfill.”   n

ZERO BRAND THE

By Ariana Pezeshki

THE ZERO brand is an Australian-owned and operated company that stands for zero plastic and zero waste and produces plastic-free, compostable wipes down to the packaging. The brand offers wipes that are an alternative to traditional single-use makeup wipes that often contain harsh chemicals and abrasive materials that can damage the skin.

With Aussie families in mind, the first line includes a range of plastic-free wipes for makeup, baby, and kitchens. Georgina Carberry, the Co-Founder and head of the brand at The ZERO Store said, “Wipes are a massive environmental problem. Not everyone realises that all wet wipes on the market are either made from plastic or wrapped in plastic and it’s creating a massive problem for our landfills and oceans. We have a plastic-free dry wipe that has just launched, and the world’s only 100% plastic-free wet wipe coming next.”

With over 20 years as a brand and product designer, Georgia worked with large corporations to define productmarket fit prior to launching the ZERO brand, she discovered the gap in the market for plastic-free products as a mainstream brand, she said, “I knew we could make a real difference so we put together a fantastic team and it’s exciting to see our products launched in the market. It’s even more exciting to hear from our customers how much they love our wipes.”

At ZERO, they see the plastic as a massive problem for people and the planet and they have a firm stance on not including any plastic in their products when selecting materials. As a non-negotiable for the brand, they ensure zero harm when the product degrades at its end of life and the product will not omit harmful chemicals and microplastic into the soil.

Georgia, a mother of two young children, said sustainability is important to her because she loves her children “more than

anything and the choices we make impact their future.” The mother was horrified by the number of plastic families go through each year and she knew she had to take a step and set out to create a company that was designed to take the plastic out of products for modern life. “We believe that busy parents shouldn’t have to do more or pay more to be sustainable, the companies making the products parents need should do the heavy lifting, design out plastic, and raise their standards for sustainability - we’re setting a new standard and its exciting,” Georgia said.

ZERO Makeup Wipes promise to remove makeup without a sticky residue and strip the skin of added moisture. The

wipes are dry and easy to use, by simply adding water or micellar water for the ultimate makeup remover cleanse. The wipes are reusable, absorbent and soft on the skin to avoid scratching or abrasions, which can cause brake outs. The wipes are fragrance-free and without added chemicals and hypoallergenic for even the most sensitive of skin types.

“Most people don’t often realize that 85% of wet wipes are made with plastic or a plastic blend, and they are all wrapped in plastic - even the “eco” brands,” Georgia said. Georgia hopes to continue the brand’s mission for a more plastic-free life for all with non-toxic biodegradable wipes that are safe for the skin and the planet. n

“Wipes are a massive environmental problem. Not everyone realises that all wet wipes on the market are either made from plastic or wrapped in plastic and it’s creating a massive problem for our landfills and oceans.”

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SKINFLUENCER ASK THE

Briony Kennedy Founder of Adorn Cosmetics and be. Health. spoke with Ariana Pezeshki about her brand ethos, encouraging kindness to people, the planet, and animals. Eco-friendly brands are here to stay and Briony is passionate about the importance of reducing waste and minimising carbon footprint beyond the beauty industry.

“MY NAME is Briony Kennedy and I am the founder, CEO and face of Australianmade and zero waste luxury cosmetics brand, Adorn Cosmetics, and collagen health supplement brand be. Health. I strive to live with purpose in all areas of my life, not only as an entrepreneur and waste reduction activist but as a mother of three boys and an advocate for spreading kindness and raising mental health awareness.

After the birth of my twin boys, I suffered from debilitating postnatal depression which prompted me to help other women enduring this common mental illness. Through Adorn I advocate and encourage kindness and help women improve their confidence through self care with skincare, and the expression of makeup.

I have always had an interest in makeup, beauty, and fashion. After spending years in the retail and customer service industry where presentation and self-confidence was key, I wanted to make the move into helping all women feel confident in themselves. As a creative person the move to become a makeup artist also fed my passion for colour and desire to reimagine traditional beauty techniques.

I had my first entrepreneurial lightbulb moment in primary school learning about profit and loss. My teacher used the farm animals we had at the school as an analogy. The animals earned extra money for the school, but also cost money to feed and keep them. I never forgot the lesson. It’s why I began my first business, Briony’s Bunny Business. Birds, bunnies, guinea pigs, mice, quail. If my parents let me own it, I sold it.

A few years after becoming an accredited makeup and beauty professional, I acquired my first salon, transforming a small fledgling beauty business on Bridge Road Richmond, to a thriving business built on customer service, commitment to care and using only the best quality products.

After these years in the beauty industry, I knew the importance of using premium quality products with skin-safe, healthier ingredients, but I was frustrated by the waste in the beauty industry and its impact on the environment. There were already so many brands in the market that claimed to be eco-friendly and good for you however as I soon learned, this is not always the case so trying to source the right products that claimed to have all the benefits, that was truly sustainable, proved to be challenging.

‘Many brands are guilty of greenwashing their products. This means they may add just 1% organic material and proceed to label the product ‘green,’ ‘natural,’ or ‘organic.’ Reducing waste and minimising your carbon footprint is achievable. It merely takes effort and thought. Packaging from tree-based products consumes 18 million acres of forest every year. Such large-scale industrial deforestation has contributed significantly to global warming. Beauty packaging amounts to 120 billion units every year. That includes plastic, paper, glass, and metals, all of which end up in landfill year after year.

The reality is the earth cannot sustain the waste practices of the past and we must evolve our thinking. We have finite resources, and we can’t keep taking from the planet without consideration to the impact, or how we can make those resources last or be replenished.

My exposure to beauty brands, when I owned my salon, educated me on what was claimed as an ethically conscious product. Through my own research into product manufacturing, ingredients, and product results, I felt that manufacturers did not go far enough to create a range that embraced the ‘circular beauty’ model. It is not easy, but it is possible. You need to be creative, test and research, and understand what is achievable now and what could be achieved in the future.

“I believe in sharing my knowledge for minimising waste and caring for the planet with anyone who dares listen.”

When it comes to living sustainably in everyday life, I don’t think specifically about being eco-conscious, for me, it is more about kindness. Kindness is my guiding philosophy. Being kinder to people, the planet, and animals. When you respect each other, you have everybody’s back, understand each other’s purpose, and come

together collectively, then many things can be achieved.

At Adorn, we have taken a position to cease using the term ‘Zero-waste’ as we see it as misleading. It is near impossible to create a zero-waste consumable as there is some waste in the process that can’t be avoided. We prefer to educate our

customers on the practicalities of circular beauty rather than zero waste cosmetics. Circular beauty is a cradle-to-cradle model that aims to keep as many of the product’s elements in play over and over again for as long as possible. They are reused, recycled, reclaimed, upcycled and so on, hence the term, ‘circular beauty’.

I believe in sharing my knowledge for minimising waste and caring for the planet with anyone who dares listen. Over the years I have shared my tips and tricks. For example, how I repurpose Adorn parcel packaging as gift wrap, how to get the most out of your beauty products including how to multipurpose them, as well as how to get the last morsels of product out of tubes and pots. I have done so many live videos on these as our customers love learning new ways to embrace minimising waste and embracing sustainability. I adore plants and animals and if you see my Instagram account, it will show you who gets priority seating on the living room couch - and it’s not me, my husband or my boys.” n

Corneotherapy

Ariana’s Moodboard

As a Beauty Editor, I have multiple beauty products on my vanity just waiting to be tested, and every month I manage to discover a few new favourites! I’m always excited to try the next big thing in skincare, makeup and more. Here are some of my favourite products for May-June. @pro_beauty_aus

STUCK BYSUMMER CLEAR BROW GEL

If you’re looking for a new brow gel with the ultimate hold, look no further than Stuch bySUMMER. This brow gel lasts all day and your brows will not move with the sticky formula that dries for a waterproof mega hold. The best thing is the gel is clear, and matte and has an invisible finish for the perfectly sculpted brow. bySUMMER is the Aussie brainchild of salon owner Sam Taylor, a lash and brow enthusiast from Melbourne who created her brand after six years of development. www.shopbysummer.com

THE GUT CØ MULTI TASKER

The Gut Cø Multi-Tasker has been a game changer in my daily routine with that midday slump virtually disappearing without an afternoon coffee pick-meup! The Gut Cø Multi-Tasker supports energy levels and production throughout the day while keeping stress responses at bay and supporting support cognitive function to help keep you focused throughout the day. I’ll admit I was sceptical. However, I can feel the difference, with a calmer demeanour, more focus and more energy, making the Multi-Tasker an added must-have in my morning routine. www.thegutco.com.au

SAINT LOUVE 0.25%

Encapsulated Retinol Serum

Cosmeceutical skincare brand SAINT LOUVE, is designed to simplify the way to achieve your best skin yet! The results are in on my skin after using the 0.25% Encapsulated Retinol Serum and my skin feels refreshed and renewed! This delicious nighttime retinol serum is designed to increase the skin renewal process while visibly reducing my pore size, and congestion and unveiling luminous skin the next morning after a night of beauty sleep. www.saintlouve.com.au

YUMMY SKIN BLURRING BALM POWDER FLUSHED

Danessa Myricks Beauty (DMB) has created the creamiest buildable, soft matte formula that blurs and blends into your cheeks and lip for all-day wear. Available in six vibrant shades, beautiful for an array of skin types, pick and choose your colour based on your mood of the day. All shades are universal and designed to look great on every skin tone, Primadonna is my personal favourite for a vibrant pop of coral pink on the high points of my face. www.beaudazzled.com

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PROMOTES ABIC genuineCREDENTIALSeco

ESSENTIALLY GREENWASHING is making false claims (usually in marketing material) that your company or products are environmentally friendly. And this misleading, usually slickly delivered lip service to sustainability is now rife across all products and markets, not just the wider beauty industry.

Greenwashing however is rarely caused by malicious motivations to deceive, it’s usually the result of ignorance, laziness, degrees of fakery and in some instances, over-enthusiasm. But it’s also easy to see why marketers are enthusiastic to promote their eco bona fides, whether they are true or not.

Sustainability Sells

According to GreenPrint’s 2021 Business of Sustainability Index*, 64% of Gen X consumers would opt to spend more on a product if they believed the product came from a sustainable brand. That figure jumps to whopping 75% among millennials who would choose eco credentialed products, over non-sustainable products.

The good news is consumers are becoming more aware of some of the misleading marketing tactics that companies have previously gotten away with. At the Aesthetic Beauty Industry Council (ABIC), we recognise that consumers are looking for brands that are transparent, honest and genuinely have integrity behind their actions and the products and services they release into the market.

One Body – One Planet

Anyone, any age who is conscious, who understands that our planet is fragile and currently out of balance, understands that

we need to urgently redress that balance, not just by a change in our thinking – but by acting more consciously. And in a consumer society, often our most powerful actions are defined by our purchasing power.

Balance, like many things in life is key here, and it’s interesting to consider that we should aim to treat our planet, just as we would like our bodies to be treated. That is, gently and considerately, while always striving for balance. That’s a nice karmic thought to hold, isn’t it? If we were to treat the planet with the same conscious respect and care as we approach our bodies, the planet would be in a better state.

Truly eco-conscious health, beauty and wellness products and services not only serve us as an individual, but they also serve greater good – the planet. So how exactly to you choose what is best for you and the environment?

Marketing by Confusion

This is a legitimate marketing aim / terminology, Marketing by Confusion is a cynical strategy that is especially rife in the health / wellness and beauty market. Quite simply, there are so many skin and body care ranges that claim eco-friendly credentials that simply aren’t what they claim to be. Finding quality beauty and skincare products that are good for both you and the environment shouldn’t be so difficult, but unfortunately it can be.

But luckily in Australia, we have a regulated system, most importantly, if you choose to purchase “organic” products. But it still all comes down to doing your research and understanding basic terminology and recognising legitimate certifications.

If you want to find and buy genuine organic beauty and skincare products in Australia, we have a regulated certification system. Any brand or product that claims to be organic should have the certifications and the Australian Certified Organic logo on the packaging (it’s that small familiar swirl logo, usually green that looks like a sprout / or snail at first glance).

You can trust that when you purchase and use beauty and skincare products with this certified logo that you are using quality products that are made from nature’s best ingredients.

The Term “Natural” Can Mean… Absolutely Anything!

Many people understandably assume “natural” in the description of a product means something. It does not.

“Natural” Claims for a Product Could Potentially Follow these Standards:

• Unregulated (no laws around what can and can’t be done)

• Green washing / false eco-terminology is common in labelling and marketing

• Open to misleading claims (due to it being unregulated)

• No minimum requirement for ‘natural’. This means that as little as 1% of the product can be ‘natural’

• Does not have to consider the environmental impact (not eco conscious)

On the Other Hand, in Australia –Certified Organic Products Convey:

• Cosmetics / skincare products are especially heavily regulated

• No greenwashing is allowed

• No false or misleading claims are allowed

• Products must contain a minimum percentage of organic natural ingredients

• Products must consider environmental impact

ABIC always endorses choosing wisely, choosing healthy, sustainable products, not only for you – but for our planet. n www.abicorg.au

There’s a lot written, not just within the wider beauty industry but every industry about brands that indulge in ‘greenwashing’. But what exactly is ‘greenwashing’ and what is the wiser, genuine sustainable alternative when it comes to choosing a product?

By Tracey Horden.

THE RETURN CLIENT

Want to grow your client base? Kamrin Hira from Kitomba Salon & Spa Software reveals the top tips to keep your clients coming back.

WE WORK in a highly competitive industry where our clients have an abundance of salons to choose from, so it’s more important than ever to ensure your clients keep coming back.

One of the most important key performance indicators (KPIs) for a salon is to be tracking your client retention rate, because loyal clients who visit regularly are far more valuable than clients who only visit once. If you’ve been struggling to retain your clients, here are some tips that will help!

Rethink your client journey

Your client journey encompasses everything a client may experience while visiting your salon. This is important because understanding your client journey can help identify parts that aren’t so good, as they might be the reason your clients aren’t returning.

First, look at your online client experience and presence and ask yourself these three questions:

1. Do you have social media accounts, a website and an online booking site?

2. Are they all linked to each other so potential customers can find you easily?

3. Do they look consistent? (e.g. using the same colours, fonts and logos that you use in-salon).

Secondly, do you make it easy for your clients to make an appointment with you? People increasingly want to book online rather than pick up the phone, so ensuring you have the ability to take online bookings will help encourage return visits.

Your spa or clinic software should allow you to customise your online booking site with logos and colours to keep your online presence consistent. Consistent branding looks professional and helps you build a recognisable brand.

Then, take a look at your in-salon experience. It might be hard to be

subjective so enlist the help of a friend as a “secret shopper” and get them to walk into the business and see any areas that need improvement.

Your physical space needs to reflect your values as a business. If you strive to be a more eco-friendly and sustainable business, you want your salon to reflect that by using warm-toned energy saving lighting and natural materials. These little things can help your beauty salon, spa or clinic stand out from your competitors, showcase your values, and make it an inviting place to return to.

Offer incentives to return

One reason that you might be experiencing less rebooking’s is that clients don’t have any incentive or reason to return. To encourage clients to return you could offer a small incentive, such as exclusive discounts on their next service, a reusable sample pot with a new product to try out, or referral cards. These are all great ways to give your clients a reason to come back.

Another option is to create a loyalty program. Your business management software should allow you to easily create a loyalty program so your clients can earn points and redeem them on gifts and discounts for their future visits.

Stay connected with your clients

A lot of people are wary of sending emails to their customers. They might seem too admin-heavy or take up too much time in your already busy day, but email marketing is one of the most powerful ways to stay connected with your clients, or bring back old clients who haven’t visited in a while.

Your software should allow you to generate specific lists of clients to send emails and text messages to at the click of a button. Examples include:

• When a staff member is going on holiday,

send a message to clients who visited them in the last 6 months at least twice to tell people that they’ll be away and to book in before they leave.

• If you’re introducing a new facial, pull a list of clients who have had facials before and send them an email outlining the benefits of the new one, along with a link directly to that service’s booking page.

You can even set up messages to automatically send to your clients based on parameters like:

• Three weeks after a client has visited but hasn’t rebooked, so you can remind them to book in to maintain the best results.

• Six months after a client purchases a specific product, so you can prompt them to buy a replacement before they run out.

• One week before a client’s birthday to offer them a small gift or free makeup application if they’re going out to celebrate.

These automatic messages are great because they only take a few minutes to set up and then work in the background, so you don’t need to spend anymore admin time on them!

So there you have it – a few tips and tricks to help improve the retention rate at your beauty business. If you want to keep your clients coming back regularly, take the time to look at your client experience from start to finish so you can make it as smooth and memorable as possible and watch your client retention rate grow! n

Kamrin Hira is a Marketer at Kitomba Salon and Spa Software. To learn more about how Kitomba can help your company visit www.kitomba.com

PCC CELEBRATES COSMETIC TATTOOING CONFERENCE SUCCESS

Permanent Cosmetic Culture (PCC) hosted its second annual cosmetic tattooing conference over a sell-out two day event at the luxurious Hilton Hotel in Brisbane recently.

More than 100 guests attended the interactive and educational sessions that were led by a stellar line up of local and international speakers who helped guests advance their skills in the tattooing industry.

Event Co-Founder June Warry, who formed PCC with Nicole Prance, revealed the conference, which had been a year in the planning was a huge success commenting: “What PCC learnt from our previous event in 2022, is that we are creatives. We need to be interactive and have hands-on experiences and so our ‘workshop’ type event was born.”

PCC hand-picked four ‘Head Trainers’ - Emma Barlee from the UK, Anna Nuygen from Zerda Beaute Brisbane, Danielle Scott from D’Air by Danielle at the Gold Coast and Thao Le from Le Brows Melbourne to bring the interactive workshop element to life. Each head trainer provided amazing skill, advice and support for delegates. With a specific task in hand, the Head Trainer’s guided delegates live on stage and directly at each workstation.

“This gave our delegates valuable assistance in hand positioning, needle placement and also the opportunity to try different machines and techniques all whilst learning in a safe learning environment. The workstations created conversation and interaction all whilst learning. A new PCC tradition that we will carry on,” June said.

PCC’s headliner acts in tattoo were Maya Moore from Moore Beauty Love in California and Mini from Mini Brows Canada. In keeping with the interactive theme, Dr Dean from Take Better Photos, led the delegates through a professional smart phone photography workshop - a highlight for most on how to nail the perfect snap! Jade and Aaron from JadeStart, renowned Beauty Business coaches provided valuable expertise including recession advice. Kayla from Socials for Salons helped everyone to tee up their socials for better engagement and the surprise keynote speaker Nick May from Denver, USA, had the audience in awe whilst telling his rags to riches story on how he built his business Walls By Design.

Throughout the event, guests had plenty of chance to network over lunch and afternoon tea then dance the night away at the glamorous gala dinner in the ballroom on the final evening.

PCC’s sister event ‘ABACTA’ (Australian Beauty & Cosmetic Tattooing Awards) will be hosting their next event Saturday October 21st, 2023 - Brisbane.

A Staycation at SIMPSON COTTAGE

Located a one-hour drive south of Sydney’s CBD is the tiny, waterside town of Bundeena. Hannah Gay and her family stayed at the destination’s impeccable Simpson Cottage – a meeting place that brings people together to relax, connect and collaborate.

TAKE A road trip down to Bundeena, where the days are slow yet full of purpose.

There’s no better place to stop, relax and reset than Simpson Cottage - a contemporary-meets-vintage adobe nestled between the waters of Port Hacking and The Royal National Park.

Despite Simpson’s proximity to The Big City, guests find themselves comfortably secluded, hearing little more than leaves rustling atop towering trees, foraging kookaburras, and the odd gumdrop hitting its tin roof.

You’ll find beauty around every corner here. Simpson Cottage’s owner of 12 years, Tara Larnach ensures every inch of the home’s 1500 square-meter plot is considered when it comes to its look and feel. On initially acquiring the 150 year-old cottage, Tara says the decision came down to pure emotion. “Every good holiday house makes you want to buy it and come back over and over again while you’re there, but that feeling usually dissipates after you depart. [With Simpson], it didn’t - it got stronger. Everything we do is motivated by the cottage’s history and heritage; to preserve and honour that.”

Greenery surrounds the cottage’s rustic sandstone exterior. Vintage cargo and wicker furnishings line the wrap-around verandah. Every corner of the cottage and its neighbouring garage-turned-granny flat is decorated with a pot of dried florals smelling of dried eucalyptus at every turn. “We haven’t done any architectural or structural work,” Tara says. “I’ve just re-styled it and basically put ‘lipstick’ on it.”

According to Tara, Simpson Cottage is a real drawcard for small groups looking to escape the city without the hassle or expense of air travel. Even the drive into Bundeena is an experience, as guests make their way through kilometers of Royal National Park forest. “It feels like you’re a million miles away

Photography by Joseph G Media

because we don’t have fences and the boundaries we have with our neighbours are really just bush settings. It’s really about being a convenient escape.”

Direct access to The Park, as well as the beach, are additional features of Simpson’s location, providing guests with ample excuses to take five or head out for a walk. “The town is also close enough that you don’t need to get in your car during your entire stay. However, the cottage is set up so you can cook like a chef and don’t ever have to leave if you don’t feel like it. We’ve designed the house and garden so you can find a quiet spot to escape alone or spend time with the people you’re staying with, so the social aspect is very flexible.”

The cottage feels lived-in and loved, yet offers space for each incoming family or team to form their own unique memories. Its master bathroom and three bedrooms are generously-sized, each telling a different story in its decor. Hard-to-find pieces and cosy linens make picking just one bed to sleep in the hardest task of them all. “I don’t want guests to feel that they can’t touch or move anything. Everything has a story - nothing there is by accident; it’s all there because it has meaning, it’s beautiful or it’s useful,” Tara adds. “For example, the riding boots that you find at the door… are identical to what I used to use as a kid when I rode horses. I also love the glass floats that you see on the shelves - my grandparents found them washed up on the beach in far North Queensland while holidaying. I was a little girl and I remember them floating around their shed. I rescued them [before being thrown out]. Every time you admire, pick up or use something [at Simpson], I want guests to wonder what its story might be… then they became part of the story!”

On dictating what products to supply and create for the cottage, Tara focussed on hand-made, natural, Australian, and as locally-made as possible to create a bespoke experience. “We want to do our bit to support local businesses. It also reduces the environmental burden, as transport is minimised.”

For an even deeper personal touch, Tara has craftily created many of the home’s most appealing elements. “I’ve made all the linen you find in the house except the sheets, including the pendant lights hanging in the hallway. I import linen from old, small family-owned linen mills in Europe. Flax is a sustainable crop requiring almost no intervention, irrigation or chemicals, and

it rejuvenates the soil it’s grown in,” Tara explains. “We’re really conscious of our eco-footprint and strive to be as green as possible so we chose to use pure linen wherever we could.”

Wooden shelves that grace the kitchen, lounge and king bedrooms were also designed and made by Tara using pieces of Oregon wood she found on Facebook Marketplace. “The styling is reflective of [the cottage’s] heritage and age, and apart from furniture that need to be hygienic (like beds and sofas), it’s otherwise all recycled and vintage.” Tara also finds value in supplying natural, locally-made cleaning and cosmetic products “to honour the environmentally-friendly side of life.”

While families frequent Simpson Cottage most, the space also makes for the perfect getaway for small teams. The accommodation comfortably houses six adults (or as many as eight with approval). “It’s a great place for small groups and teams to train because you have so many different areas you can use to meet together or to break away.”

Despite its separation from the main quarters, the granny flat is hooked up to a high-speed internet connection and TV which can be used by teams to host presentations. Colleagues can connect while lazing against feather-down cushions atop stylish linen-lined sofas, or set-up a rug on the estate’s shady lush lawns while enjoying the view. “You can sit on the veranda where you are sheltered from the weather and enjoy morning or afternoon tea.” The lounge room and large outdoor picnic table are also ideal for meetings or drinks before dinner.

While Simpson is rich with historical memorabilia, nothing went a-miss in its renovation. Wet rooms are fitted with modern facilities and powerpoints are plentiful throughout. Despite countless meeting spots and sitting rooms, you’ll find yourself wooed over by its festoon-lit dining tables made for outdoor chatter over a cheese plate and glass of rosé.

Today, the property continues to grow in popularity, particularly due to its proximity to Sydney. “[Initially], we had to pull our belts in financially somewhat, but there was no way it wasn’t going to work - it had to work - and so I poured my heart and soul into it, and here we are,” Tara revealed.

Prices start at $690 per night during winter months. To book your next team retreat at Simpson Cottage, Bundeena, call Tara on 0413 275 453 or visit www.simpsoncottage.com.au. n

SALON PROFILE: KÜYEN WELLNESS MEDISPA, BUNDEENA

Hannah visited Bundeena’s lone beauty destination and met with owner, Cinthya Orostica to learn about the area’s typical clientele.

In what year did you open your business?

“July 2013; we have been in business for ten years.”

Cinthya, you have a Chilean background with Mapuché ancestors. How has your understanding of natural healing shaped your focus and technique as a skin therapist?

“Yes, there is a conscious, present, ritual, connection, and an intention to allow the wisdom of my culture to be at play in the approach to our work. KÜYEN means ‘moon-derived’ from the language of the Mapuché. The foundation of the business is based on natural cycles, feminine energy and all-natural beauty in the world. My grandmother, Carmen took great care of herself; I sat by her side as a child in Santiago, Chile as she applied raw avocado on her skin. She taught me the benefits of rose-hip oil long before it was a popular ingredient. All her approaches to cures and wellness were natural and alternate.

I like to instill calm from the moment the guest walks in, waving away the sense of rush. I offer our guests a cup of organic herbal tea and we share a deep breath of aromatherapy. Although we offer paramedical treatments, I believe in doing as much as we can with prescribed skincare and tailored treatment plans. I love light therapy and rejuvenation enzyme peels to refresh the skin and promote skin metabolism. Our preference to treat leans into a non-invasive approach and focuses on healing touch.

Fundamentally I believe natural beauty has the pendulum swinging in its favour… that our hands are our gift, our strength and niche.”

As part of your training, you conducted ‘method training’ while in Paris. What is this?

“I was working for Clarins as a Counter Manager in a beautiful day spa in Marrickville, Sydney. During this time I had exceptional training which was called ‘Paris Method Training’. The techniques were passed on from highly trained therapists directly from France. Techniques focused on making contact for ultimate relaxation, full hand contact

methods, where every move and technique was purposeful. I felt that this training was so positively valuable to [my skills] arsenal.”

Why did you choose to open your business in Bundeena just outside of Sydney?

“We moved to Bundeena because I wanted to raise my children here - close to nature in Dharawal Country. This destination was not by our choosing for establishing a business - there was no market research or studies, just strong intuition and diving into TRUST. My friend Shannon, who was offering beauty services from a shared location, fell pregnant. Her words to me were: “the guests want to know where to go, who will I recommend? Would you consider it?” Life took its course with a new trajectory and I started offering beauty services for our local community. The greatest unknown was, ‘can the size of this resident population for Bundeena and Maianbar (currently 2,658) support and sustain our business?’ We had to really BELIEVE.”

Describe your typical clientele? What is your ratio of regular clients to tourists?

“We have a good mixture of regular visitors both local and International. We also receive a regular stream of guests recommended via our local BnBs, as we are included in their welcome packs. I have had repeat business from overseas guests, and when they are here they book multiple times - I am so grateful.”

What are some of the biggest advantages you find to running your business outside of a major city?

“The greatest advantage is work-life balance. The business is meters away from the beach and The Royal National Park is our backyard. Having the business physically located in this nature setting embellishes guests’ healing experience. They are able to hold that sense of grounding that only nature can provide. I could not have dreamed up a more magnificent location. Being outside of a major city makes the whole experience for us all more community-minded and has many rewards. For the people that love us and make us feel cherished, they say things like, “all I want for Christmas is a KÜYEN gift voucher.” It makes me laugh.”

You work with iKOU and Ultraceuticals at your business. Why have you chosen to use and stock these two brands in particular?

“I chose iKOU because it is the ultimate sensory, spa experience. iKOU is not only

Australian-made, but also uses indigenous Australian ingredients. The brand aligns with my values and priority for vegan, organic products which at the core encourages rituals to relax and restore for the wellbeing of skin, mind and body as a whole. Ultraceuticals I have worked with since 2003 and have had extensive training with this cosmeceutical brand and its paramedical treatments. I have worked with Ultraceuticals long enough to see the biological improvements and skin results. This keeps me motivated and loyal to the brand.”

Given you work with cosmeceutical solutions, what does your consultation process usually involve?

“We have a consultation option that I suggest is integrated into an appointment using the OBSERV diagnosis machine. We can take a close look at guests’ skin and focus on key concerns. After diagnosis we are able to prescribe, coach and recommend treatments for best results.”

What do you believe to be your most popular treatment/s?

“Our facials with Omnilux light therapy is our number one; everybody should Omnilux their skin! This is closely followed by an authentic aromatherapy massage - our most amazing body offering. This treatment moves our guests - they cannot believe they can be made to feel this way. Then, our Hot Stone Treatment. There is something so ancient and freeing of the mind with this treatment. They are our top three.”

My favourite product in the range is…

“A very hard question as each product has an essential place in my line up. However, if I had to choose one, probably our new Gentle Rice + Oat Cleansing powder. It leaves your skin so subtle, smooth and bright after only one use, without a hint of irritation.”

last word

Natalie Butler Founder of biobod reveals the search for a skincare solution to her sensitive skin led to her launching her own business.

By Anita Quade.

I love this most about having my own business… “That it is a seamless part of my greater life. I can shape the business culture to be an extension of how I choose to live and never be forced to compromise on things that are fundamentally important to me, like kindness, integrity and sustainability.”

Three words that sum me up… “Passionate, Creative, Restless.”

The best piece of advice I have been given… “Perfection is the enemy of done.”

My favourite weekend vibe is … “Relaxed. Hanging close to home with the kids and close friends. Local food markets, slow cooking, beach walks, red wine. With winter just around the corner, I’m excited to add the cosy warmth of an open fire to my afternoon routine.”

I launched biobod because… “I couldn’t find products that worked for my sensitive skin that I enjoyed using in the market and I had always longed to run my own business.”

My favourite beauty treatment is…

“Light therapy or facial massage. Having sensitive skin, product-based beauty treatments can sometimes be challenging as many strong actives don’t agree with my skin. It is so nice to see some facialists adding sensitive skin services into their menus.”

I’d tell this to myself starting out in skincare… “Taking a step back and slowing down can be incredibly valuable. It’s essential to listen to and trust your body, rather than blindly following trends. After all, skincare is just one aspect of overall wellness, and there are many other pieces to the puzzle.”

In 2023 I plan to… “Grow and nurture our biobod community, launch some exciting new products that are currently in development and partner with key like-minded beauty/wellness spaces to bring biobod to life.”

What ABIC membership can do for you

The Aest het i c & Beaut y I ndust r y Counci l i s commi t t ed t o pr ovi di ng aut hent i c, et hi cal , and accessi bl e suppor t f or t he bet t er ment of t he pr of essi onal spa, beaut y and aest het i cs i ndust r y We r epr esent you, as your t r ust ed voi ce and i nf l uent i al r epr esent at i ve body As an ABI C member , you ' l l r ecei ve excl usi ve access t o a r ange of benef i t s i ncl udi ng:

An ext ensi ve l i br ar y of exper t - cr eat ed busi ness r esour ces Ed ucat i on sessi ons wi t h sought - af t er i ndust r y speci al i st s Dai l y access t o advi ce f r om ABI C f aci l i t at or s

The l at est r el evant i ndust r y news and updat es Gover nment r epr esent at i on t o ensur e your voi ce i s hear d

Your member shi p not onl y benef i t s you as an i ndi vi dual or busi ness, but dr i ves t he success and t he heal t h of our col l ect i ve i ndust r y Toget her , acr oss Aust r al i a, wi t h your suppor t we can make a di f f er ence

S i g n u p t o d a y b y v i s i t i n g t h e a b i c . o r g . a u

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