Spa & Clinic Volume 80

Volume 80 2020

aesthetics • medi • wellness

Bali Bliss

WHAT WE CAN LEARN FROM BALI'S BEST SPAS AND RETREATS

HOW TO BOOST YOUR

Digital Marketing

-Star 5Therapist?

WHAT MAKES A

SETTING A NEW BENCHMARK IN WELLNESS

gazines a m e u g aar & Vo ustomers z a B s r New C Harpe n U i O n e Y e nd As s nt to se a w t o y Pa

TRUST THEN TRUST NOW In 1920 Dr Nadia Payot developed the massage that we now know as the “ facial”.

She also created a regimen of advanced hypoallergenic produc ts to re-hydr ate, f ir m and challenge the signs of aging. Today this system combined with decades of research at the Payot labor atories have def ined a r ange of specif ic in-salon treatments and home-care produc ts available only from your professional beauty ther apist.

B E AU T Y I N M OTI O N S I N C E 192 0

Ask Your Payot Theapit

ROSELIFT COLLAGÈNE LIFTS AND FIRMS THE SKIN EYES

EYE PATCHES

SERUM NIGHT

DUAL LIFTING ACTION • A pa te n te d i ng r ed i e n t ROS A c t i ve r e s t a r t s t h e ce l l me t a b o l i s m .

• A b o os t i ng p e p t i d e s t i m u l a te s t h e p r o d u c t io n of col l a g e n f i b r e s .

THE SKIN IS M O R E R A D I A N T 95% * F I R M E R 8 6% * L I F T E D 70 % * CLI N IC ALLY TESTED 1)Roselift Collagène Jour : Satisfaction test carried out under dermatological control on 21 people.Twice-daily application for 28 days. % of volunteers who observed the effect.

(2)Roselift Collagène Nuit : Satisfaction test carried out under dermatological control on 22 people.Twice-daily application for 28 days. % of volunteers who observed the effect.

(3)Roselift Collagène Regard : Satisfaction test carried out under dermatological control on 23 people.Twice-daily application for 28 days. % of volunteers who observed the effect.

(4)Roselift Collagène Patch Regard : Satisfaction test carried out under dermatological control on 23 people.Twice-daily application for 28 days. % of volunteers who observed the effect.

EXCLUSIVE TO YOUR PAYOT SALON & SPA Call 1300 367 969 or 02 9874 1166 for the location of your nearest Payot Salon & Spa.

www.payot.com | join us

payotaustralia

We’re back in 2020 The summit for salon, spa and clinic professionals.

Take your business to the next level with a collaborative day of inspiring talks, innovative ideas and engaging conversations guided by industry experts.

Brought to you by

Platinum Sponsor

Gold Sponsor

Monday May 25, 2020 Ovolo, Woolloomooloo | Sydney

REGISTRATIONS NOW OPEN www.beautyandspainsiders.com.au

Silver Sponsors

Bronze+ Sponsor

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SPA+CLINIC aesthetics • medi • wellness

published by BHA MEDIA Pty Ltd A division of The Intermedia Group 41 Bridge Rd, Glebe NSW 2037 ph: 02 9660 2113 fax: 02 9660 4419

managing director Simon Grover

publisher Craig Hawtin-Butcher craig@intermedia.com.au

Letter

editor Nadine Dilong ndilong@intermedia.com.au

online editor Mala McAlpin mmcalpin@intermedia.com.au

advertising enquiries Kym Cowper ph: +61 2 9660 2113 mob: 0410 570 467 kcowper@intermedia.com.au

graphic designer Leanne Hogbin

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I have to be honest: when I returned to work after the Christmas break in early January, and all anyone could think and talk about was the devastating bushfires that ravaged through the country, it felt like writing about beauty treatments and cosmetics was meaningless and a waste of time. For a moment, I questioned the entire industry that I am a part of, and so I started to contact business owners and brands to see if they were ok, if they had been affected by the fires, and if they were doing anything to help others. The responses I received turned my feeling of helplessness into hope. Not only did everyone I contact donate money and products, but some told me about the importance of spa treatments that they had been offering for free to those in the fire zones. The healing power of touch during massages and facials is not to be underestimated, and I am glad that our industry is full of kind, giving people who made it their priority to help those in need (read more on page 24).

The importance of wellness offerings was also crystal clear when I went to Bali last November to visit some of the world’s best spas and retreats there. With spas quite literally at every street corner, it wasn’t hard to see why tourists from all over the world come to the ‘island of Gods’ for some R&R. Head to page 46 to learn what makes Bali spas so special (hint: it’s all in the little details).

Now that we’re in the second month of the year, industry events are around the corner, and we’re super excited to have partnered with the inaugural Wellness Tourism Summit in Noosa in March where you will see me chat alongside the industry’s best about what’s trending globally for the spa experience.

Head to page 20 to read more. If you haven’t already done so, mark May 25 in your calendar as our very own industry summit, BEAUTY & SPA Insiders is returning for its second instalment! We are so excited to bring you another day of inspiring talks and networking opportunities, and a stellar line-up of speakers, which will be announced over the coming weeks. Early bird tickets are available now on beautyandspainsiders. com.au. Get a sneak peek of the programme on page 18.

I hope 2020 has treated you well so far and that you are motivated to take your business to the next level this year. Our magazine is jam-packed with tonnes of advice on how you can achieve your goals, so enjoy the read!

Nadine Dilong Editor NDILONG@INTERMEDIA.COM.AU

www.facebook.com/spaclinicmagazine twitter.com/spaandclinic www.instagram.com/spaandclinic www.linkedin.com/company/spaclinic

Contents

92

24

46

Cover Stories 26 Boost Your Digital Marketing 37 What Makes A 5-Star Therapist?

42 Waterlily

Setting A New Benchmark In Wellness

46 Bali Bliss

The Best Spas And Retreats In Bali

60 Wellness 56 A New Age Of Therapy

Holistic counselling gives the title Beauty Therapist a new literal meaning

60 Baby On Board

SPA Interior 14 Melbourne’s Holism Retreat

Events 18 BEAUTY & SPA Insiders Is Back!

What to expect at this year’s industry summit

20 Noosa Calling

Why Katherine Droga founded the Wellness Tourism Summit

22 Cosmoprof Faves

Our top picks from last year’s Cosmoprof Asia

Business 24 We Stand Together

How our industry came together for Bushfire Relief causes

How pregnancy has changed the way these therapists practice

66 Trust Your Gut!

Nutritionist Fiona Tuck explains why not all supplements are created equal

Aesthetics 68 Must-Have Treatments To Boost Business

Beauty Melbourne’s educators share their top picks

70 Retinol VS Bakuchiol

Is This A Natural Alternative?

Technology 74 Shed Some Light

The need-to-knows of some of the industry’s most popular LED devices

32 Beauty And The Beat

78 Meet The Sales Reps

33 Shape Up For Leaner Times

Medi

Do you have the right music licence?

Be prepared for any financial scenario in your business

40 What We Can Learn From Aus’ Best Wellness Retreat

We get the inside scoop from Eden Health Retreat

SPA Hotspot 44 Discover Hong Kong based wellness haven, The Oriental Spa

The Faces Behind Cynosure and Sciton

84 Hairy Solutions

The latest in hair regrowth

86 PRP Gets Intimate

Have you heard of the O-Shot?

96 10 Questions With

We chat to Sarah Hudson

On the cover Waterlily launched in Australia in 2004. Born from Michelle Reeve’s deep, personal desire to experience an authentic Spa brand which reflected the fundamental values of pure, results driven and botanically active. Waterlily has since grown into Australia’s leading Spa Partner synergising meticulous formulations, artisan crafting techniques and the finest of nutrient rich ingredients to create an effective and aromatic solution for Spa Wellness. Waterlily is Australian at heart and global in inspiration. Michelle draws from an abundance of international sources for tantalising new rituals and products.

From France, India, Morocco to the Amalfi Coast of Italy, Waterlily continues to create Spa journeys that transform, replenish and rejuvenate. WATERLILYSKINBODYSPA.COM.AU

spaandclinic.com.au | 9

20 years and still Australasia’s leading B2B publication for the aesthetics, medi and wellness industry

Website updated daily Quarterly print & digital magazine

Weekly e-newsletter 9:41 AM

100%

Social media

Annual conference

Reach our quality, influential audience of 50,000 through bespoke advertising and content solutions

Contact SPA+CLINIC’s Kym Cowper: 0410 570 467 kcowper@intermedia.com.au

PROFESSIONAL SKINCARE

SKIN PERFUSION CUTTING EDGE COSMECEUTICALS

NCTF® BOOST 135 HA

NUTRITIVE SOLUTION

FOR RADIANT, EVEN AND HYDRATED SKIN E: info@cryomed.com.au T: 1300 346 448 W: cryomed.com.au

Tried + Tested

Tried + Tested The latest and greatest in the aesthetics industry, tested by the SPA+CLINIC team.

STYLAGE® by Vivacy Injectables are still on the rise in popularity, and with only a handful of trusted filler brands out there, it’s exciting to see a new dermal filler enter the Australian market. Arriving all the way from France, Stylage filler (distributed by EnVogue Skin in Australia) combines cross-linked hyaluronic acid with the antioxidant Mannitol in each product. This ingredient is said to reduce swelling around the injected area, which is something we can attest to. After our injectable treatment, swelling was minimal, and there was no bruising whatsoever. The result that was achieved was natural and subtle.

ActivLayr ActivLayr Nano-Collagen Boost is the world’s first marine collagen nanofiber eye patch. Unlike underye gel masks, ActivLayr consists of only four ingredients: sustainably sourced Marine Collagen, Sauvignon Blanc Grapes, Kiwi Fruit, and Hyaluronic Acid, all embedded in nano-fibres, which dissolve when in contact with water, allowing the ingredients to penetrate as deep as 2.5mm into the skin. Watching the super thin white patches virtually disappear as soon as they touch wet skin is oddly satisfying, and also means they can be discreetly used whenever, wherever. The 5-second treatment helps minimise fine lines and plump skin.

ClearSilk by Sciton The new ClearSilk treatment from Sciton is a quick facial-like procedure that can be done any time of year with no downtime. It utilises non-invasive, non-ablative laser technology delivering micropulses of laser energy to the skin to safely, discretely and effectively treat redness, rosacea, fine lines and uneven texture. ClearSilk is definitely one of the more enjoyable facial lasers to receive. When we tried it at Dr Stephen Lowe’s MUSE Clinic (the first Australian clinic offering the treatment), we found it completely painless and rather pleasant – we’d liken it to lying under the sun – without the consequences! Roughly a credit card-sized area is worked on at a time, and with laser goggles on, all one can feel is a heating of the area for a moment. We noticed a substantial improvement in skin texture, smoothness and redness, and some improvement in pore size and pigmentation.

Brow Lamination by SEIR Beauty School One of the biggest beauty trends of 2020 is brow lamination, and Sydney-based SEIR Beauty School is currently the only Academy offering training courses for this treatment. Similar to a lash lift, unruly brows are set in place with a chemical solution. Founder of SEIR, Samantha Elliott, stresses the importance of using the right solution as the wrong balance of chemicals can result in hair loss. After a patch test behind our ears, the solution is applied, brows combed into the perfect shape and once set, a tint and wax follow. We are seriously impressed with how full our brows look post-treatment and how easy it is to style them up for a more fluffy look, or down for a more defined look.

StimSure by Cynosure Cynosure’s latest state-of-the-art, non-invasive electromagnetic technology, StimSure, builds and tones muscle without us having to lift a finger. Let’s be honest – who doesn’t want to lie perfectly still for 30 minutes and benefit from the same results as doing 800 stomach crunches? The device is suitable and approved to be used on the abs and buttocks, so of course we’re having both body parts treated. The treatment consists of two cycles, the first being quite intense contractions that feel like you are working out at full intensity, while the second cycle subsides to a mild tapping sensation – a welcome relief and somewhat relaxing. Four to six treatments are recommended to see full results, and even though we’re only halfway through our sessions, we can already see results, such as a tighter booty and increased strength in our core.

12 | SPA+CLINIC

Wellness Products Holism Retreat Candles and Heat Pillows

Shelves Custom made, designed by Studio Tate studiotate.com.au

Skincare Divine Woman Certified Organic Skincare thedivinecompany.com.au

Plant pot

Skincare

Life Interiors

O Cosmedics

lifeinteriors.com.au

ocosmedics.com

Plant Ambius

Skincare OrganicSpa organicspa.com.au

ambiusindoorplants.com.au

Vase Front desk Custom made, designed by Studio Tate studiotate.com.au

14 | SPA+CLINIC

West Elm westelm.com.au

SPA INTERIOR

Holism Retreat Located within one of Melbourne’s most stylish hotels, Holism Retreat offers the ultimate escape for urban dwellers.

Fireplace EcoSmart Fire ecosmartfire.com.au

Screen Nicole Onslow nicoleonslow.com

Wooden table West Elm westelm.com.au

Teapot T2 T2tea.com

Seating custom made, designed by Studio Tate studiotate.com.au

spaandclinic.com.au | 15

SPA INTERIOR

M

elbourne’s newest 5-star accommodation, Hotel Chadstone, opened late last year and is quickly making a mark as a style haven with its ultra modern, chic interior visitors just can’t help but take dozens of photos of.

Gold trims and blush velvet dominate, and it’s this ‘Instagrammable’ aesthetic that has transcended into the hotel’s spa, Holism Retreat. Located on the mezzanine level, Holism offers busy urbanites who have spent their day at Australia’s biggest shopping centre, holistic wellness treatments. Offering face and body treatments as well as yoga classes, Holism is also home of a wellness light therapy lounge including eight MediLUX LED machines, purchased from The Global Beauty Group whose team has been “exceptional in service,” says Pauline.

“Holism was inspired by a polished gem emerging from the rough. Studio Tate conceived the space as an urban sanctuary, at home amongst its luxury fashion neighbours,” says Pauline, who has been running a spa in St. Kilda for 23 years. “It had always been a strong passion of mine to bring together spa, wellness and yoga.” So when the opportunity came up to open a second business as part of the new Hotel Chadstone development, Pauline worked closely with interior designer Bree Davis and Studio Tate to make her dream reality.

16 | SPA+CLINIC

Facts & Figures Name: HOLISM RETREAT Owner: PAULINE MICHAEL Location: MELBOURNE Size: 398m2 Treatment Rooms: 9 RITUAL ROOMS + WELLNESS LIGHT LOUNGE + YOGA Staff: 12 Interior Inspiration: MODERN, FASHION, LUXE

“Bree and I were closely involved in the project with Studio Tate (Emily Addison and Alex Shekleton) to design the space holistically, making each moment throughout special. The emphasis was to always create jewellery box moments throughout the spa,” says Pauline. Her advice for anyone renovating or opening a new spa? “Ask professionals. Get advice. Draw on help around you. Speak to people who believe in you. Get support.

Look at the entire picture.”

“How do you want it to look?

What will you offer? How will it be offered? What is needed to make it seamless? How can it support the client’s experience and how can you make it an environment where people want to work and thrive?”

SPA Interior

BABOR Opens Concept Spas The German skincare brand has partnered with saltair to open two stunning new locations in Victoria.

T

he term ‘concept spa’ may sound unfamiliar, but it’s something that is quite common throughout Europe and typically describes a spa that specialises or works closely and exclusively with a particular brand. Since December, Victoria has been home to two new BABOR concept spas, one in Torquay and the other in Lorne, both located along the picturesque Great Ocean Road. Partnering with BABOR stockist and leading day spa, saltair spa, the BABOR concept spas opened their doors on December 19 of last year.

Business entrepreneur and founder of saltair, Ben Melis has sought to deliver a unique wellness destination for loyal local residents and visiting tourists alike. Through the blending of scientific results with luxury pampering, massage, injectables, allied health and more, saltair is able to deliver a one-stop, transformative wellness location impressing with a luxurious interior design and high-end look.

“We have created a luxury haven for the community to come and escape to whenever they need to take some well-deserved time out to relax and feel rejuvenated. We are thrilled to be working with BABOR again to deliver the best-in-class for our customers,” says Ben. “Clients have been extremely blown away with the new look of our latest concept store. It’s luxurious, modern and very German!”

BABOR Australia’s Managing Director, Anouk Thebault visited both new locations from Sydney for the official formalities and in support of these incredible destinations. “We are thrilled to be working alongside saltair to deliver an outstanding and redefined spa and wellness facility in Victoria. Ben has

Massage packages are especially popular

BABOR Australia’s Managing Director, Anouk Thebault at the opening

The interior design was inspired by German concept spas

been a progressive and supportive partner for the past four years and his business success is a testament to his passion and drive to support the community and continue to offer a point of difference.”

The new Health Spa in Torquay offers resultsdriven facials, massages, and their new addition to the treatment menu – floatation therapy. This exciting new development in the wellness space offers guests the opportunity to escape reality and restore mind, body and soul in a Flotation Pod. These pods are designed to relieve physical and psychological stresses with long-term benefits. “I’m so excited about this new technology which gives guests the opportunity to leave the spa looking and feeling transformed.

Time, experience and escapism are the new values in busy modern-day living and at saltair we can offer this through Flotation Therapy,” explains Ben. “We have seen our regular clients visit to try a different offering of treatments but also attracting a brand new clientele. Our best-selling treatments have been our 2hr Floatation and Massage Package and as well as our new DOCTOR BABOR PRO Facials combined with the latest LightStim LED treatments.”

Our best selling products are always our Ampoule Concentrates, which are glass vials containing high quality ingredients for immediate visible results.

As one of the most revered German skincare brands, BABOR has a footprint in 70 countries and over 10,000 spas and salons. The addition of the two new concept spas further strengthens the brand’s presence in Australia, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for BABOR and saltair.

Clients love the new, modern space

spaandclinic.com.au | 17

heading

BEAUTY & SPA Insiders Is Back!

Get ready for the second instalment of our industry event bringing together experts in beauty and medi-aesthetics to educate, connect, and inspire.

BEAUTY&SPA Insiders will be held at Ovolo, Woolloomooloo

18 | SPA+CLINIC

Event

A sneak peek at the BEAUTY & SPA Insiders Programme*

Last year’s speakers Kristin Fisher, Natalie Papadopoulos, Angelina Veljanoski

A

fter our hugely successful inaugural industry summit last year, BEAUTY & SPA Insiders 2020 is only a few months away, and we couldn’t be more excited! The overwhelmingly positive feedback we received in 2019, with many attendees loving the great networking opportunities as well as the diverse programme, meant we didn’t have to think twice when deciding if we were going to do it all again. And so, for the past few months, team SPA+CLINIC and team Professional Beauty have been curating a fresh programme for another exciting day of education, inspiration, and connection.

Mark May 25, 2020 in your calendar as you won’t want to miss our second instalment of BEAUTY & SPA Insiders at the beautifully quirky and modern Ovolo in Sydney’s Woolloomooloo. MC for the day will be one of Australia’s most trusted and experienced skin experts, Sarah Hudson from Skin by Sarah Hudson. Not only is Sarah a clinic owner and knows firsthand what beauty professionals need, but she is also a media contributor and has experience as a host of industry events, such as Beauty Expo. We can’t wait to see Sarah on stage guiding everyone through the day, offering engaging conversations and exchanging different perspectives. If you’d like to get to know Sarah a bit better, turn to page 96 to read our interview with her.

Running a successful business is often about pushing yourself and taking on challenges that take you outside your comfort zone, which is why we will kick off the day with our incredibly inspiring keynote speaker, Sam Penny, who successfully swam

across the English Channel in 2018. “My philosophy is simple. I aim to be better than I was yesterday and always have a goal to aim for. Just as long as your goal is bigger than your last one, you will be on your way to achieving greatness,” he says. We look forward to learning how Sam took up swimming as rehabilitation for a bad back and turned it into a passion that would drive him towards his limits and turn him into a determined, strong athlete who is setting new goals for himself all the time.

Our programme will include 13 topics led by industry experts in their fields, such as marketing, wellness, technology, finance, business, and aesthetics. Just like last year, we aim to offer you a wide range of topics you will find interesting and valuable. We want you to take away plenty of ideas for how you can take your job or your business to the next level, as well as many new industry friends you can connect with and support each other.

Editor of SPA+CLINIC, Nadine Dilong, says she is looking forward to the second year of BEAUTY & SPA Insiders. “We were thrilled with the success of the first year and took all our learnings from 2019 on board when planning this year’s event. I’m proud to be able to bring the fantastic people that work in our industry together to share their knowledge as I know how beneficial collaboration is for everyone involved. We will also make BEAUTY & SPA Insiders 2020 even more engaging and interactive.

Attendees can look forward to quite a few surprises and, of course, a big goodie bag with products from our sponsors.”

We are so happy to have an incredible line-up of sponsors this year, with beauty

♥ Product Innovation and Personalisation ♥ The Future of Wellness ♥ L aunch, Grow or Go? Winning Financial Strategies for Every Scenario ♥ Six Ways to Effortlessly Go Eco-sustainable ♥ Technology To Simplify, Multiply or Raise Profits ♥ Winning With Interiors: Design Tips to Lift The Bottom Line ♥ How To Find And Retain Quality Staff ♥ How To Create Your Own Product Line ♥ Everything You Need To Know About Digital Marketing ♥ Non-Invasive Devices To Watch In 2020 ♥ How To Get The Most Out Of Your Injectables ♥ Leveraging Social Media For Your Business Whatever Your Budget *subject to change

The SPA+CLINIC team

supplements brand Beauty Boosters once again supporting us as Platinum Sponsor. Other amazing sponsor brands that will be there on the day are asap, BLC, dermalogica, Candela, Spring Spa Wear, Victoria Curtis, Inskin Cosmedics, Waterlily, and Venus Concept.

For more information on BEAUTY & SPA Insiders, including Early Bird ticket sales from Feb 10, visit beautyandspainsiders.com.au

spaandclinic.com.au | 19

Event

Noosa Calling

The inaugural Wellness Tourism Summit in Noosa is just around the corner and shaping up to be an event not to be missed. Founder of the summit, Katherine Droga, tells us more.

My wellness background

I

wear a few different hats in the wellness and travel space. I’m proud to Chair the Global Wellness Institute’s Wellness Tourism Initiative, which is a not-for-profit global think tank on consumer wellness travel trends. I also run my own global consultancy business Droga & co., where we help destinations and businesses shine in the space of sustainable travel and wellness. And prior to running my own company, I spent over a decade as part of Tourism Australia’s executive team based in Sydney and Europe (another amazing wellness location!).

Why I founded the Wellness Tourism Summit It was sort of one of those effortless decisions. Despite working with so many inspiring businesses and people in the space of wellness and travel, I noticed there wasn’t a place for everyone to come together to collaborate in Australia. It felt like the right time to make this happen. This sector is really booming, with wellness travel worth $639 billion annually and $15 billion in Australia.

How a love heart helped me plan the event In the past I have run large global tourism events for Tourism Australia for up to 2,500 attendees which were a huge undertaking, but this time it’s been different. Running your own event is a leap of faith and a much more personal journey. It’s a joy to curate a program and shape an experience that will provide those attending with valuable insights, inspiration and great networking.

Deciding to do the event in a gorgeous wellness destination like Noosa was always part of our plan, that way delegates could experience wellness travel pre and post the summit and as part of our complimentary wake up to wellness program outdoors in Noosa.

But without a doubt the hardest part of the planning process was the beginning when we first launched and the negative self-talk and fears crept in… ”What if I create this sensational event and no one turns up?” “How am I going to feel?” I would ask myself. And then something amazing happened thanks to Yoga Nidra expert and author Karen Brody. I read something she did that totally helped changed my mindset. She had drawn a love heart in a notebook and written the names of all those people who had signed up to her online course.

So the next day I drew a massive heart on a huge piece of paper on the wall of our office and every time someone registers for the summit, I write their name in the heart. What this did was instant.

It made me get out of my head around fear of failure and got me to focus on the real purpose of why I was running the summit: to serve other people and help them shine in the space of wellness travel.

When I look at that heart filling up with so many amazing names, I remember why I’m doing this.

20 | SPA+CLINIC

I’m excited about meeting those 200+ names written in the heart! I’m also excited about helping others grow their business and the sector overall. For me wellness travel has a great benefit for the individual, the local community and the planet overall.

Who should attend the summit?

The summit is aimed at anyone in the business of wellness and/or travel. You could be in beauty, spas, retreats, an accommodation provider, a wellness practitioner, a food or nature-based experience and you’ll get something out of attending. We’ve got speakers flying in from Paris, Singapore, China and New Zealand and of course loads of terrific industry innovators here in Australia.

The summit will kick off with the latest consumer trends and insights for wellness and travel. Leaders in the sector [editor's note: including SPA+CLINIC Editor Nadine Dilong] will then share their practical tips for operational and marketing excellence across all facets of wellness and travel. We will deep dive into topics spanning clean beauty, spas, hot springs, technology, food, sustainability, the benefits of nature, mental health and how these intersect for the wellness traveller. We also have a wellness immersion area open during the breaks with massage, beauty treatments, refreshments and other surprises for delegates.

What is happening in wellness right now?

Mental wellness continues to be top on the list in 2020 with continued demand for services in this space, along with clean beauty, digital detoxing and consumers demanding more sustainable choices when travelling for wellness. Another is the surge in evidence-based wellness advice, like DNA testing overlaid with epigenetics and integrative wellness solutions. One of my favourites trends is the continued growth of more transformational wellness travel and green prescriptions. These are all topics we will deep dive into at the summit!

As the Chair of the Global Wellness Institutes Wellness Tourism Initiative we have just released the global findings from our consumer wellness travel survey which focused on the Australia, USA, Canada, China, Italy, Thailand, Singapore, Romania and India.

The study revealed the 5 most important things consumers seek on a wellness focused trip. This includes nature, great food, quality accommodation, spa experiences and outdoor activities. In markets like Australia, eco-friendly/sustainable experiences actually hit the top 5, ranking 4th. The survey also showed that nearly a third of all global wellness leisure travellers are willing to spend 16% or more on accommodation that meets their wellness needs.

The inaugural Wellness Tourism Summit will take place at the Sofitel Noosa Pacific Resort on March 19 and 20. wellnesstourismsummit.com.au

sponsored

The Powerhouse of Aesthetic Medicine ASAPS and NSS have become trustworthy pillars of the aesthetics industry.

We chatted to ASAPS President and Co-Convenor for NSS, Dr Naveen Somia to get a look behind the scenes of Australasia’s peak body of medi-cosmetics.

D

r Naveen Somia is a Sydney based specialist plastic surgeon and the President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS). After completing his Specialist Plastic Surgery training in Melbourne and Sydney and obtaining a Fellowship of Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, (FRACS) in Plastic Surgery, Dr Somia travelled to the US and completed a Cosmetic Surgery Fellowship in Atlanta. For the past 5 years, Dr Somia has been actively involved in ASAPS and its leading annual event for the non-invasive aesthetics industry, the Non-Surgical Symposium (NSS).

Dr Naveen Somia

What can we expect from this year’s NSS?

Please tell us about your journey with ASAPS Serving on the Board of ASAPS, an organisation that I admire, has been one of the most rewarding and valuable decisions I’ve made. It allows me the opportunity to give back, a feeling that is incredibly rewarding.

I was elected to the ASAPS board by the membership of ASAPS in 2014. I served as the Chair of Education and as Vice President of ASAPS, and in 2018, I was honoured to be elected as the President of ASAPS by the board. By serving on the board of a major organisation like ASAPS I have learnt invaluable skills necessary for the growth and success of an organisation like ASAPS. I have been involved in NSS since 2015 in various roles and worked towards its success.

Some of these voluntary roles are anatomy dissector and tutor, speaker, moderator, live injector and general organisational help when needed. In 2020, I will be co-convening the NSS along with ASAPS past President, Dr Scott Ingram.

NSS continues to sell out year after year – what makes the event so successful?

ASAPS events are innovative and 100%

multidisciplinary collaboration through innovation and education to enhance patient safety. The NSS has always been an inclusive event and this year we have opened the NSS to all healthcare professionals who practice aesthetic medicine and cosmetic injectables to improve the standard of patient safety.

focussed on patient safety and good outcomes. The key to the success of the NSS is its inclusivity and its welcoming nature. NSS is a multidisciplinary collaborative meeting between Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Cosmetic Physicians and Cosmetic Nurses that ensures that the program and keynote speakers appeal to a diverse audience.

Delegates can hear from global thinkers who are performing cutting edge procedures, or refining tried and tested methods, all with patient safety at the forefront. The 300+ members of ASAPS uphold integrity and excellence and commit to lifelong learning and best practice in cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine to ensure patients receive the best advice, world class treatment and successful outcomes.

What prompted the recent rebranding of NSS? Over the years, the NSS had ‘rapidly evolved’ to become the powerhouse of Aesthetic Medicine and the new branding is a reflection of that stature. The new NSS logo symbolises continuous and collegial

We have designed the NSS 2020 to be truly inclusive by welcoming every healthcare practitioner who practices aesthetic medicine and cosmetic injectables. We would like you to participate in the NSS 2020 and make it fun, enjoyable and an outstanding learning experience, which will empower and enable you to deliver great results and be successful.

You can stay on top of your knowledge and skills by attending the NSS 2020 and learn from the diverse mix of 16 keynote speakers from the United States, South Korea, Hong Kong, Brazil, Germany, and Mexico, who will share their expertise and knowledge. Furthermore, you can stay on top of new and emerging technologies by interacting with the 90+ technological partners from industry who participate at NSS 2020 with enthusiasm. More importantly, you can interact with and learn from the 1000+ attendees at the NSS by sharing tips and secrets and keep up with what’s going on in the industry and stay ahead of the game.

For more information and registration to this year’s NSS, visit nonsurgical.org.au

Dates to put in your diary: Anatomy Dissection and Cosmetic Procedures Workshop:

June 11, Brisbane Non-Surgical Symposium:

June 12-14, Gold Coast

spaandclinic.com.au | 21

Event

Our Top 4 Innovation Picks From

Cosmoprof Asia The biggest beauty trade show in APAC is where the trends are made, so naturally, we were there to find them.

L

ast November saw us travel to Hong Kong to attend one of the world’s biggest beauty conferences, Cosmoprof Asia. Running from 12–15 November 2019, the exhibition hosted 2,955 exhibitors from 48 different countries and regions, showcasing their new products and services across two venues comprising 118,900 sqm of exhibition area.

The sheer size of the event can be quite overwhelming, and it is virtually impossible to see everything and talk to everyone, so we tried our best to find the stand-outs, innovations, and products and devices we think you should have on your radar in 2020.

Here is what we found.

1. HiMirror As technology advances, smart mirrors are getting better all the time. Of course, nothing beats a thorough skin analysis by a qualified practitioner, but getting the help from some artificial intelligence can add a point of difference to your business as well as help retain client information. After analysing your client’s skin and measuring wrinkles, fine lines, dark circles, dark spots, red spots, roughness, and pores, HiMirror can then suggest suitable products to use. The range of products is completely customisable for every business as you can input all the information and ingredients yourself. Clients can view their current skin’s condition as well as their overall progress. Moreover, you can use the sleek design of the mirror to display advertising when not in use for skin analyses.

2. The Super Facial Clients want it all and they want it now, which is why there were quite a few multi-component devices to be found at Cosmoprof Asia, one of them being Geneo. Geneo delivers the so-called ‘Super Facial’, which received its name due to its ability to combine three separate advanced facial treatments into a single 60-minute session. The three components deliver the benefits of an oxygenating exfoliating facial with Radiofrequency (RF) skin tightening and ultrasound infusion. Skin will be left refined, hydrated, and lifted. With no pain or downtime, the device caters to the typical time-poor client that doesn’t want to compromise on quality or time.

4. Vinoble Cosmetics Amidst hundreds of skincare ranges at Cosmoprof, what stood out to us was Austrian luxury skincare brand Vinoble Cosmetics. Vinoble products are formulated using the powerful ingredients of the humble grape, such as Oligomere Proanthocyanidine, derived from the seed of the grape, which is 20 times stronger than Vitamin C and protects the skin from premature ageing caused by the environment. Their product packaging, made of wood, glass and fabric, is not only pleasant to touch and look at, it is also sustainable. The single, unisex product line is 100% vegan and cruelty-free.

3. Stendo® The Stendo® technology generates a series of pulsating waves synchronised to the heartbeat of the client, thus increasing the production of Nitric Oxide (NO) in the body. With N.O.logy ®, a regenerative process is triggered: vasodilation, improvement in microcirculation and lymphatic drainage, cell regeneration, oxidative stress control, improved sleep and a rebalancing of the body. This new device is soon launching for both the face and body,

22 | SPA+CLINIC

and can be used as a standalone or add-on treatment. The cardio-synchronised pulsatile massage helps reduce puffiness, minimise redness, and replenish wrinkles when used in conjunction with the brand’s cosmetic mask.

Cosmoprof Asia 2020 will take place in Hong Kong on November 11-13, 2020.

Cosmoprof-asia.com

28-29 March 2020

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Incredible Days

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We Stand Together The ongoing bushfires have shaken Australians to the core. But amid the tragedy, we’ve also seen the community spirit in our industry flourish. Nadine Dilong talked to business owners and brands to see how the fires have affected them.

J

anuary is usually a quiet month. People are away on holidays, enjoying the post-Christmas time with family and friends, making ambitious plans for the new year, often without a care in the world. It’s an optimistic time. But this year was different.

The devastating bushfires in Australia affected all of us – some more seriously than others, of course, but everyone on the East and South Coast of Australia could see, smell, and feel the smoke in their lungs – a constant reminder of the terrible loss of lives, homes, and habitat that has happened since October 2019.

Within three months, at least 29 people were killed, thousands of homes are destroyed, 16 million acres have burned, hundreds of millions of animals have perished, and many more are struggling to survive unable to find water or food. The outpour of donations and help from people both within Australia and internationally has been a powerful glimpse of hope in this dark time, and our own industry has played a fair part in this, too.

Spa And Clinic Owners Share Their Stories As I started to connect with many spa, clinic, and salon owners at the beginning of January to hear if they had been affected by the fires, it felt like everyone had a devastating story to share. If it wasn’t their own business that had suffered, it was friends, staff, or clients they were worried about. Dr Naomi from The Manse Clinic in Sydney told me about her “social media assistant from a rural town who had towns around him burning up. I was worried and am still happy when he checks in with me every day. Some of our patients have been evacuated from their homes, had their holidays cancelled and been affected in many different ways.” Dr Naomi has since started selling her 24 | SPA+CLINIC

skincare products at 50% off, and has donated 100% of that money to the NSW Rural Fire Service and the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital.

HUD Skin and Body’s Director Gry Tomte was also worried about some of her patients. “We have several clients who are in the affected areas, and we have done our best to support them by giving away a free treatment to several clients who we know have been through a lot these past few weeks. Our clients are like our family we have a very loyal client base and it’s the least we can do in a time of need.” Gry has also made several donations and reached out to DMK to see if they could help as well.

“DMK’s CEO Daniel Dickson responded with a heart-warming idea that we have a clinic opt-in to donate $5 for every Enzyme Therapy we do during January and February. DMK will then match every donation dollar for dollar. When we put it out to our social media followers we had such a huge response from overseas clinics as well, that DMK USA have also offered to match any donations dollar for dollar! We are so lucky to be a community who really cares about making a difference - and I’m so grateful for the incredibly huge response from the clinics here in Australia who all very quickly put their hand up to partake. Together we will make a difference!”

Leanne Spring from Spring Spa Wear has also had many sleepless nights due to the fires. “The bush fires have been devastating.

My father and two brothers live in the Southern Highlands. They were evacuated from their homes as the fires raged through their communities; 10 homes in their tiny village of Wingello were lost.

Thankfully their homes are safe. Dad said all the trees around our family home were on fire, the place looks like a war zone,” said Leanne. She has adopted several Koalas to aid wildlife recovery.

Business

Brands For Bushfire Relief: • Ultraceuticals: Donated $10,000 to The World Wildlife Fund WWF • Dermaviduals: Donated to NSW RFS and The Koala Hospital • TEOXANE Australia: Donated $10,000 to the RFS

• Biologique Recherche: Donated to NSW RFS, Country Fire Service VIC, Country Fire Service SA and Australian Red Cross; donated full size retail products to Victoria Baron’s ‘Beauty Bags for Bushfire Victims’ appeal • INSKIN Cosmedics: Donated $20,000 to NSW RFS, donated thousands of products to Victoria Baron’s ‘Beauty Bags for Bushfire Victims’ appeal, Lisa Clark’s Relief Project, Kristin Fisher Eyebrows Market, the FoodBank NSW & ACT • Candela: For every device sold in Australia from January 1 to March 31, Candela ANZ will donate $1000 AUD to the Red Cross Bush Fire Appeal • Babor: Donated more than $10,000 worth of products to the Kristin Fisher Eyebrows Market • Advanced Cosmeceuticals: Donated to the Bush Fire Relief Fund • Waterlily: Ran an online promotion promising 50% of all sales over 72 hours to the Red Cross Appeal, donated products to stockists in affected areas

And even those of us that didn’t know anyone directly impacted by the fires have felt sad to see our beautiful country up in flames and wanted to help. Dr Jake Sloane’s in-clinic initiative has even made waves overseas. “Having moved to Australia five years ago in 2015, I’m so grateful for how we’ve been welcomed and in a crisis like this, it’s a no brainer to want to help if I can. This week I’ve been donating $25 for every ml of filler used and $25 for every anti-wrinkle treatment I do. It’s been a fun way of involving my patients so that they also feel like they are contributing. I even had an injector from Georgia, USA contact me to contribute as she thought it was a great idea and wanted to help, which was lovely,” he says.

Goddess Day Spa in Ulladulla on the South Coast, which has suffered months of fires and evacuations, was one of the businesses that felt the impact of the fires first-hand. Owner Louise Lugg had to “close down the business when receiving evacuation messages from the RFS. I had to let the staff and clients go straight home to prepare for the fires. This happened on three different occasions.” Moreover, many clients cancelled their treatments as they couldn’t get to the spa due to road closures, or worse, because their homes were in the line of fire. “The bookings dropped to below our quietest period of winter,” Louise explains.

But even once the fires were put out, the problems were far from over. Louise heard just how much the situation impacted people on a physical and mental level when she treated some of the brave firemen and women.

“Over the last week or so we have been giving free spa treatments to the firies and people whose homes were burnt to the ground leaving them with nothing. The first person I gave three hours

of nurturing to was Charlie the commanding chief of the Bawley Point Fire Brigade. He had endured seven weeks of hell for him and his team – half of which are women. He said the women were amazing stepping up, while also balancing the male energy. He expressed how when they are in the truck out on the job they are fine, but it’s not until they are home trying to relax and also while trying to sleep that their minds recall all the terrible things that they saw. All the burnt animals, the burnt people they had to sit with screaming in terrible pain waiting for the helicopters to pick them up. I feel that over the coming months, spas can really make a difference offering wellbeing for the mind, body and soul, to help heal and restore balance.” Louise recommends anyone wanting to help to buy spa vouchers for affected families and volunteers.

Australian native skincare brand Li’Tya has launched ‘The Dreaming Treatment’ as a response to the devastation caused by the bushfires. “Li’Tya provides a platform of knowledge and understanding that continues to support the healing of our land, its animals and its people. The Dreaming treatment nurtures and works to facilitate change, heal and rejuvenate, supporting our ongoing and continuous connection to Mother Earth,” says Anne Warren, Director of Training & Chair of the Aboriginal Advisory Board Li’Tya.

The Bushfires’ Effect On Your Business As Australia comes to terms with the extreme destruction that is left, many people are struggling to make ends meet. Not only have thousands of people lost their homes, but many have lost workplaces and therefore their jobs; businesses have lost income due to decreased foot traffic, and everyone is re-considering what they should be spending their money on when it is so clearly needed in other areas. These tough times could potentially mean a general decrease in client numbers and spend within our industry. So what can small business owners do when cashflow takes a tumble? Dr Naomi recommends focusing on your relationships with your clients.

“In the beauty business, it’s about relationships, so my advice for affected smaller businesses would be that the most important thing is to work on keeping those relationships that they already have.

There are so many ways to do this: Keeping in contact, making offers so that treatments are still achievable for their clients in some way.

Obviously it would have to be structured so that the businesses can afford it and survive, of course. There are always great ways to offer enhanced value for clients. It’s a chance for business owners to get really creative.”

Gry stresses the importance of community. “I think the biggest concern is for businesses in the rural areas who are in the fire affected areas. This is a devastating time for them, and I can only put a call out for all of us to support our professional community in these areas however we can. Once things are settled and communities rebuilt it will be so important for us to stand together and help support by driving traffic to these clinics and salons. Social media is a wonderful thing and you can reach clients who live in all areas in the country and help by encouraging spending with the businesses that are directly affected,” she says.

If you fear your business will struggle financially this year, take a look at page 33, where Workforce Guardian’s Charles Watson explains how you can survive and thrive in tough times. If one thing has become clear this year, it’s that we are all in this together. Seeing how everyone is doing their bit to help and support each other is fantastic, and makes me proud to be part of such an amazing industry. spaandclinic.com.au | 25

Business

Boost Your Digital Marketing The latest tips and tricks you need to implement this year

D

igital Marketing can be a double edged sword. On the one hand, it’s amazing how accessible marketing opportunities have become to anyone with a computer and an internet connection. With a bit of time and research, even the smallest business can create killer marketing campaigns that can really boost your branding and get more clients through your door. On the other hand, for those that aren’t very tech-savvy, or simply not interested in spending a lot of time on social media and Google every day, digital marketing can seem quite confusing and daunting.

Where do you even begin?

It goes without saying that content and consistency is still king, and having a functioning, well presented website, and (at least) a couple of regularly updated social media accounts is the bare minimum to have an online presence nowadays. In order to stay competitive, it would be naive to think that you can do without one. As readers of SPA+CLINIC, most of you would already know the basics of Instagram & Co, e-mail marketing, and how to keep connected with your clients, but what are the next steps you can take this year to elevate and boost your reach, and thereby optimise your clients’ experience with you online?

We asked four digital marketing experts about their predictions and tips and tricks to succeed with your marketing efforts in 2020.

The Wonderful World of Chatbots MACKAYLA PAUL embodies the Instagram generation; tech-savvy, vivacious and a little bit of an over-sharer. As a Content Marketing specialist and previous keynote speaker for Mashable’s Social Media Day and regular media contributor, Mackayla is a keen storyteller with a passion for the Fashion and Beauty industry. Here, she explains why you should get a bot to work for you.

There’s a lot to be said for the humble smartphone. They’ve made it easy for us to book appointments, keep in touch with our friends and family, and with them we can even order food to be delivered when we’re feeling a bit lazy. With over 1.3 billion monthly active users of Facebook Messenger across the world, it’s now easier than ever for 26 | SPA+CLINIC

your clients to contact your business and ask questions.

Unfortunately for many time-poor business owners this can lead to an increase in unread Facebook messages and ultimately, a loss in bookings.

By setting up a Facebook Messenger Chatbot, or by integrating one with your website, you’ll be able to answer client questions in real-time without having to lift a finger. But what are Chatbots, and why are they useful to beauty businesses? Here’s what you need to know.

What Are Chatbots?

Chatbots are digital assistants that can answer questions and perform actions that they’re programmed for.

With a variety of affordable tools on the market like ManyChat and ChatFuel it’s now easier than ever for business owners to create Chatbots for their businesses.

There are plenty of video tutorials and online courses that can help you get up and running with a Chatbot for your business. It isn’t as techy or overwhelming as it sounds, I assure you.

Why Use a Chatbot?

You might be wondering what Chatbots can be used for; the good news is there’s a lot they can do! Here are a couple of ways you could use a Chatbot for your business: • Offering exclusive discounts and offers to your clients • Organising pre-orders for your in-salon products • Reminding a client about their upcoming appointment • Asking for and facilitating reviews for your services • Answering frequently asked questions • Letting clients know about changes in pricing or open hours • Giving quotes and pricing for specific services • Hosting fun and interactive competitions There’s one last thing I want you to know about Chatbots before you go: It’s been shown that with Chatbots you can achieve upwards of an 88% open rate on your messages. That’s more than double the open rate of most e-mail marketing campaigns. So, if you’re using e-mail to market to your clients, maybe it’s time to take it to the next level with a Facebook Messenger Chatbot.

Right now, Chatbots are at the same level as when permissionbased e-mail first became a marketing tactic. This is the perfect time to create one for your business.

Mackayla.co

BUSINESS

5 Ways To Improve Your Digital Marketing Salon Digital Marketing is a boutique marketing agency which specialises in creating digital solutions and building Shopify Stores for businesses in the beauty, skin, spa and salon industry. Having spent the past decade working in digital marketing across a variety of brands, industries and markets, OWEN MULLINS founded Salon Digital Marketing after identifying the need for high-quality, beautiful, affordable and easy to use E-Commerce stores and effective, results-driven marketing for beauty business owners. Here are his tips to step up your digital marketing game.

Social media and digital marketing is forever evolving and changing in real-time, ultimately adapting to new technology, consumer behaviour and fresh insights, to improve the overall user experience. In 2019 Facebook began testing the removal of Likes, we saw the introduction of Appointments Management (which lets customers book services directly with your business via Facebook and Instagram) and increased transparency of ads (users can now learn why they were targeted with specific Facebook ads). This means users and businesses alike can now see all active ads a page is running in Ad Library – a simple way to keep an eye on competitor activity.

The next decade is going to bring new innovations and changes we are yet to comprehend, however, what we do know, is that there are some useful new products to be launched in 2020, for example, Google Lead Ads and Google Local Campaigns will be introduced allowing users to fill out a form or make an appointment from their Google Search.

Just like social media and digital marketing, your salon, spa or clinic requires continual care, adaptation and improvements to stay relevant and efficient for your business. Here are our suggestions for 2020.

Branding never goes out of fashion Well executed, consistent and clear branding can be often overlooked or come last on your long-list of things to do, however, it’s one of the most vital marketing tools in your business. For example, Kylie Cosmetics, the wildly popular makeup brand owned by reality TV star, Kylie Jenner is nothing more than generic makeup, packaged and marketed well.

Don’t underestimate the power of branding and its connection to a seamless customer experience – both online and in-salon. As Facebook and Instagram’s Organic Reach continues to fall businesses will be required to pay for ads if they want their brand or business to be seen by the right people. It’s important to build a brand narrative, which resonates with your target customers and aligns with the values and philosophies of your business.

You can look at your online store as another way of servicing your clients and making their lives just a little bit easier. Have a client who’s always rushing in last minute to buy their skincare products because they’ve just run out? Why not set up a monthly or quarterly subscription online or allow them to purchase directly from you.

Google Local Campaigns As we all know, people do the majority of their research via their smartphones before they enter a physical store. Google will introduce a new ad format called Local Campaigns, a semi-automated campaign type that helps salons, spas or clinics influence peoples' purchases before they visit your bricks and mortar store. The ads are designed to create a relevant customer experience across Search, Display, Maps and YouTube. The setup is relatively easy, simply provide your store location, ad copy, images, a budget, your bid and Google then optimises it to maximise foot traffic to your beauty business. Google has completed trial tests on a small group of businesses before rolling out the new product which resulted in a median incremental ROAS of 5x.

Adopt a multi-channel marketing approach It’s important to remember social media isn’t a silver bullet to improving the success of your marketing. Instead, select your bestperforming marketing channels, whether it’s email, text and social and continue to improve all of them – an increase of just 1% across each of the channels can have a major impact on your business. In this day and age, your potential customers are browsing across multiple devices and using a tool such as social media, google and reviews to complete research before purchasing or booking an appointment.

Building and owning your own audience Your website is the foundation of your digital marketing Your website is the foundation of your business, a modern, neat and user-friendly space where potential customers can learn more about your services, better understand your business values or simply help them make a purchase, book an appointment, or better yet, both.

Introducing an e-commerce store to run alongside your business is made simpler with the likes of Shopify, a sleek and powerful e-commerce platform, allowing you to easily sell and manage both your services and products online. Shopify has powered more than 600,000 stores, with more than 1,000,000 active users and $82 billion in sales.

Make a conscious effort to start building and owning your audience by capturing e-mail addresses in-salon. By owning your own audience you can then use this to build look-a-like audiences on Facebook, allowing you to reach new potential customers who are similar to the ones who already frequent your store. Also, by building your e-mail database you can also create a loyalty e-mail program.

If we can learn anything from the last decade, it’s important to remember the power of branding, the need for strong foundations (websites) the ability to adapt and change when a new technology emerges and to enjoy the ride.

Apacdigital.com.au spaandclinic.com.au | 27

BUSINESS

3 Social Media Hacks To Implement Now After working in the aesthetic industry as a registered nurse for a few years, NICOLE MONTGOMERY decided to create change and founded the not-for-profit, educational platform, Trusted Surgeons. After struggling to find a helpful digital media company, Nicole took matter into her own hands and founded Trusted Digital Media – a social media service for aesthetic clinics.

The new year is the perfect time to re-invent your spa or clinic’s social media platforms. Many clinic owners simply do not know where to start and find social media marketing extremely time consuming.

We have 3 simple recommendations anyone can implement to kickstart their social media in 2020.

1. Create an effective social strategy that aligns with your audience’s interest. It is as simple as directly asking your clients. Dr Naomi frequently asks the question in her story, “Do you want to see more education or before and afters?”. Another reliable option is to review your highest performing posts and determine what about those posts resonated with your audience. This is easy to do within your Facebook or Instagram insights. Lastly, I suggest a brainstorming session with your team to ask “what are your unique selling points, your values, your why?” and use all the feedback to create authentic messaging.

2. D iversify your content and build a robust content calendar. A content calendar does not have to be an arduous task. You can start filling your calendar with key event dates which can be found with a quick Google search. Add your team’s birthdays and your business anniversary. From here, look at what treatments do well in each season and how you can create a social media campaign for each of them. Campaigns can help you generate qualified leads, grow your audience and encourage upselling within the clinic.

3. D etermine the business value driven by social. It is important to know where 28 | SPA+CLINIC

your marketing budget is going. With so many options available it is hard to know where to invest. It is not viable to continually invest in something, if you do not get a return. Set time aside to create your social media strategy or plan. Allow time weekly to create and schedule or post directly. The time you allocate, along with the cost of subscriptions for stock images, Canva and video apps, should all be included in your budget. Once you have determined your basic cost, you need to think about advertising spend. Will you boost posts which do well? Or create an ad campaign to run simultaneously? Ad campaigns are measurable, tangible and data driven. Employing a professional to set up an ad funnel for you to manage is a great investment and only involves a one-off cost.

Social media is rapidly growing and changing, and with so many users, finding your tribe has never been more important. For a salon or spa having a quality social media following of genuine clients and users interested in you and your products is the holy grail, which is why I frequently tell people to forget the number of followers and focus on how many leads you receive, what your engagement is like and the positive impact you have on the platform. If you focus on how your account makes people feel, rather than how you can get more followers, your organic growth will come. Reviewing and interpreting your analytics is important. It will help you create meaningful content. When you create meaningful content, people forge a familiarity with you. Your existing clients remain loyal and potential new clients are drawn to your quirky individuality. When potential clients continually feel good because of a post from your page it is only a matter of time before they book in.

Evaluate, how does your social media make others feel? Are you pushing your agenda or are you listening to your audience? These questions are not static and ideally you review your progress and audit your social media at least quarterly. Organise a quarterly social media brainstorming session and encourage staff to be involved whilst showcasing the posts that did the best.

Have a laugh and make creating stories fun for staff, some clients create Instagram highlights for procedures, others for staff members. If the team are proud of their social media and are well informed about what is coming up on the calendar, you will find staff promoting your social media to friends, clients and new acquaintances. Never forget: your staff and clients are your best brand ambassadors.

Trusteddigitalmedia.com.au

BUSINESS

Social Media Game Changers for 2020 NATALIE ROBERTS is the Founder of Salon Social Media, helping small business owners in the beauty industry with effective social media solutions. With 15 years’ experience in running her own salon business, Natalie knows what’s needed to stand out.

Here are her tips to take your social media to the next level.

Leaving 2019 behind, we say goodbye to vanity metrics and speaking about what your salon business does and why it’s so great! In 2020 the focus is on what the customer wants, and this should be at the top of your mind when creating content. People on social media want to know who you really are behind the beautifully curated Instagram.

Customers want to know they are understood before they develop trust. Social Media in 2020 is all about showing your audience that you understand them.

When creating content: • Always consider speaking the language of your ideal client • Focus on bringing them practical value • Create conversations with them • Give them the information they want / need • Entertain them with stories and videos • Give them an opportunity to BUY NOW!

Content that Connects with Your Ideal Customer Video and live streaming (think Insta Stories) are huge now! They allow you to connect with your audience by speaking the same language as them, they give you a platform to make conversation with your followers, they reinforce that your ideal clients are being acknowledged, and on top of that they’re super entertaining. Share real insight into your salon business and show results you’ve been getting with clients.

Stop trying to be everything and anything on social media and, rather, focus on being real and significant with what you are offering by creating engaging storytelling videos to capture user attention!

Social Shopping on Social Media People expect and want to shop on social media, so set your social media up for sales! In 2019, people were browsing; in 2020, people are ready to shop. Instagram’s features make it easy for your followers to shop on your online store. To drive sales on your social channels, you need to make sure you add on any user-friendly links that lead your ideal clients towards immediate purchases.

When it comes to online products, think e-vouchers and the pre-purchase of packages and offers online by leading people to sales pages and shopping carts. Create a wonderful shopping experience for your customers whereby they don’t need to actively leave the social media site they’re on to buy products, and make use of shoppable posts, stories and links across all social media sites.

User-generated content is key to enticing clients to want to shop

instantly with you online. Examples are customer reviews, staff talking about features and benefits and photos and videos of client results. These can all be shared via social media, e-mails, blog posts and your website.

Consider producing content of yourself and your staff, talking firsthand about the features and benefits of your products and services, why you do what you do etc. This type of content in the form of videos is so much more engaging to someone online than the generic business sales post.

Turn your Customers into Brand Ambassadors Create relationships online with your clients, as many of them can become brand ambassadors for your business. Social media users are no longer interested in the influencer who is clearly posting about a product because they are merely getting paid to do so.

Here, there is a brilliant opportunity to build networks of smaller influencers and have them all posting about your brand authentically. Think small to get BIG! Having 50 salon influencers with 500-10,000 followers can be more effective than one influencer with 100,000 followers. Find those who have a smaller following yet authentically use your product or service and really express the brand values. You want to make sure you choose brand ambassadors that have an image that is aligned with your salon brand values. Your business can really benefit from the rise in success of smaller influencers, as they are affordable and low risk and they can really improve your engagement by building trust and credibility with real user content.

The key to success is building more authentic and long-term collaborations with real clients and people who genuinely love your salon, brand and business. Make sure that, as a salon business, you are adapting to the changes in social media and keeping the needs of your ideal client at the forefront of your mind when creating content. Stay in the social media game in 2020. salonsocialmedia.com.au spaandclinic.com.au | 29

BUSINESS

PR 101 Ever considered hiring a PR agent but not sure what exactly you would get out of it? Director of Soda Communications, Dani Lombard, explains.

What exactly is it that you do for your clients as a PR agent?

PR can involve any number of activities, but the core objective is to influence the public into looking favourably on a brand/product/ service/company and acting accordingly by purchasing, visiting or telling their friends about it.

It’s our job to find what it is that makes our clients special and then tell that story to the media and thus the public – in a way that’s compelling, interesting and newsworthy. The end result, we hope, is that our client will get coverage on a channel – whether that be TV, radio, in a magazine, newspaper, online or on social media – and that this in turn will influence consumer behaviour in a favourable way for that client.

How can a beauty business or an aesthetic practitioner benefit from working with a PR agency?

PR, like any form of marketing, is designed to help you grow your business. The more people know about why you’re the best at what you do, or about the amazing service that you offer that nobody else does, the more likely they are to spend money with you. To get an ‘endorsement’ from a media outlet or influencer, tells people that you’re the ‘real deal’ and is more likely to have a bigger impact on your reputation.

What are the most common myths when it comes to PR? There are many! One of them being that PR is all about press releases. Just write a release and send it out yourself, and surely journalists will come knocking? While this has never really been the case, it is now less so than ever. The media landscape is changing daily. Journalists are busier than ever, and they rely on good PR people to bring them good stories and brands based on relationships that have been built over years.

Good PR people don’t just write press releases – they act strategically and will 30 | SPA+CLINIC

come up with pitching angles and ideas that you probably would never have thought of because they do it day in day out. In the digital age, a good piece of PR can continue to yield dividends for years to come.

Another myth is that PR is all the glitz and glamour you see on social media – the gorgeous beauty media events, champagne glasses clinking etc. There is an enormous amount of thinking and work that is behind every pretty event or Instagram story.

However, I will admit that working in beauty, health and lifestyle PR is pretty fun – all the editors and influencers are genuinely lovely people to work with and I honestly love what I do and have done since I started in this industry almost 20 years ago!

How has PR changed since the rise of influencers?

It’s funny – I get asked this a lot. I actually don’t think it has changed much at all. I see influencers as just another media channel.

We used to have TV, radio and print. Then we had digital media. Then we had bloggers.

And now we have influencers. All of these media channels “broadcast” information to their audiences. They grow their audiences in order to generate income from advertisers and they do so by bringing those audiences interesting content and news that keeps them coming back for more.

And so, we as PR practitioners, see them as vehicles for which to tell our clients’ stories to their readers. So, I see influencers

as a new channel – rather than a new way of doing PR. They’re considered in the mix in everything we do.

Should spas and clinics work with influencers and why?

Sure! Like any form of marketing or advertising – it's trial and error – and the same goes for PR. Which influencers are actually ‘influencing’ your demographic? E.g. if you have an Australian influencer whose audience is primarily in the USA, and you haven’t asked for their figures, you’re wasting time and treatments on someone speaking to a largely non-local audience. It’s about choosing the right influencers and testing the waters with them to see whether working together benefits both of you. A good PR person or agency will know the influencer landscape and will be able to help you navigate it and make it work for you. It’s not just about free treatments for posts – what are they saying in their posts? Does their image fit yours? Is their audience the right age group? Are they actually influencing anyone e.g. what’s their engagement?

It’s our job to help you achieve your business goals – by generating positive word of mouth, enhancing your reputation and driving customers to your clinic or website.

There are so many ways you can do this and again, it depends on how long we have to work with you, on budgets, and on what it is you’re trying to achieve.

Sodacommunications.com.au

ive sL Kat i Exe e W ighton, All our

in Te xas

ONE MUSIC. ONE LICENCE. Music licensing has changed for the better.

In the next few months spas and clinics will receive step-by-step information on how to transition from the two-licence system of APRA AMCOS and PPCA to the simpler onelicence system of OneMusic Australia.

Spas and clinics will enjoy enormous benefits from:

For the first time ever, there’s an e-commerce website so you can log-in, transact online and review all your music use details in one place, at any time of the day or night.

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What next? The advance information about OneMusic Australia will be rolled out to coincide with your renewal date. In the meantime contact hello@onemusic.com.au or visit our website.

onemusic.com.au 1300 162 162

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a huge cut in red tape and admin time you’ve been asking for it! new background music fees - with packages starting at $85 easy add-on options for telephone on hold and website music legal access to a worldwide collection of music

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Samantha Jade

Beauty

And The Beat

What music you play in your spa or salon can influence the way your clients feel, but whatever genre it is, make sure you have the licence to listen. APRA gave us the lowdown on what you need to know.

Do I need a licence if I am paying for a streaming service?

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It depends which service you subscribe to. Mostly, yes.

Launched in November last year, if you subscribe to Apple Music for Business you are covered for playing music in your commercial space because PlayNetwork (who supply Apple Music for Business in Australia) have a OneMusic licence for the commercial clients they supply music to. Plus you won’t be breaking Apple’s Terms and Conditions as the product has been set up precisely for that commercial music use.

For other streaming services, you need to pay for a licence from OneMusic on top of your subscription because your commercial/ business use is not covered by your streaming/digital music service supplier. You will see that almost all digital music services operating in Australia and New Zealand strictly state their service is for personal and domestic use only.

Have a look at the terms and conditions of your personal digital music service end-user agreement.

he relationship between music and the salon is intertwined, with music offering experience, vibe and ambiance to your space that is as important as design or service. Moreover, both beauty services and music act as a creative outlet that allows our artistry to be both revealed and rewarded. Here, pop star Samantha Jade explains that very personal connection from her distinct and unique point of view.

As a singing mega-star, both music and style and aesthetic are paramount to Samantha Jade, who has spent many hours in her favourite salons, and knows the value of music in and out of those environments. Her strong belief in the value and power of creativity – something beauty professionals know too well - is driving her to campaign for widespread music licence compliance in the hair and beauty sector. Not only is this important legally, but it’s critical for artists, who, like Samantha, could be your next client.

“I am super inspired by fashion and it actually plays a big part in the creative and song writing process for me,” Samantha said of this synergistic relationship. “Whenever I’m writing a song, I automatically see the video, including the fashion, hair and beauty surrounding the aesthetic. Fashion is a form of expression of self and creativity. Makeup is something I love to experiment with. I feel like the process of painting your face for performance allows the performer in me to come alive.”

Samantha’s local salon haunts include Edwards and Co in Surry 32 | SPA+CLINIC

Hills, where Jayde Turner-Ledwidge is her long-term, personal stylist, while she turns to Brooke Low and Monica Gingold as makeup artists in Sydney and Melbourne respectively. In beauty especially, Samantha loves to experiment with products, and this creative outlet mirrors her musical outlets as well.

The fact that beauty business owners can understand the importance of owning and profiting off one’s creativity, talent, artistry and output, makes the OneMusic licence all the more vital for salons.

Like all retail locations, salons need a licence or other permission to play music in salon. The licence fees paid go back to the music creators like Samantha Jade as royalty income. Doing something as simple as paying a OneMusic licence and then curating a great playlist to suit your salon brand is a huge bonus to both the musicians and the salon, validating a piece of your salon ambiance that helps define your atmosphere and brand.

When you start thinking about that all-important playlist, keep Samantha in mind – her single ‘Bounce’ may have clients keen to leave the salon with a little more volume or a bold brow, and you’ll be dancing to each chair with a spring in your step. With OneMusic, make sure you’re honouring the artists for that day-making dance break. onemusic.com.au

heading

Shape up for leaner times Financially, most businesses will go through good and bad times, but it’s all a matter of preparation when it comes to surviving and thriving through tough times, says CHARLES WATSON.

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his year will be an important one for Australia’s economy. Possible recessions, shifting international trade relations, economic downturns, lengthy market corrections and other such terms are being used or hinted at by newspapers and other media outlets. It’s a complicated issue and I’m no economist. However, in the 2008/2009 GFC I saw clients, large and small, falter by either not acting fast enough or doing no preparation. This is unsettling as there are options and concepts that will help get a business through a downturn.

One of the biggest issues you need to plan for during a downturn is workforce management. There are a range of intelligent options and alternatives to consider before simply moving to reduce the headcount.

Whatever you plan to implement, always consider the potential effects of any such decision. What are the likely effects on production and efficiency? How will morale be affected? Whatever arrangement you are able to reach with your employees, get it in writing, clearly and appropriately drafted, with time frames, compliant with workplace laws, and signed off by the employee. Ensure the agreement has been reached without coercion or duress. Remember that crystal clear communication with all stakeholders is critical.

Time to invest in the talent If you have rock star employees, and don’t look after them during a downturn, guess who will walk when things improve?

Consider training employees across other duties, or seeking out training opportunities

to advance them within the business. Skill development is always a good idea.

Time for part-time?

If a downturn occurs, and depending upon the structure of your workforce, businesses could consider forming an agreement with employees to reduce their hours of work.

You will need a plausible business case to present to your employees as to why a reduction in hours is necessary.

Other options The first and simplest is to stop employees working on areas of the business that don’t generate income. Reduce any unnecessary overtime being worked. It can be expensive particularly if the work can be performed during ordinary hours. Be cautious with hiring any new employees. Fixed term or casual employment arrangements may be better options in tough times. That being said, a casual employee does not owe much loyalty and will often walk if a better option becomes available.

Although it may appear contrary to the previous point, look at shedding casuals before retrenching permanent employees.

Casuals come at a premium with the loaded rate of pay, usually 25%. Encouraging employees to use accrued annual leave or long service leave may also assist the business.

If things get really tight, employers could consider an agreement with employees to take a flat hourly reduction in their pay rather than a reduction in hours of work (ensuring that award minimums rates are met).

If there is no other option Businesses should look at making redundancies as the last option. If that has to happen, follow all contractual and Award related requirements to ensure the termination will hold up as a genuine redundancy.

Cash flow Businesses should work on strategies to keep the cash flow moving when things get tight. Talk to your advisers, or if you run a smaller business there is a lot of assistance available. I strongly recommend checking out the resources and assistance that can be provided by the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman.

Marketing Some businesses virtually stop their marketing activities during periods of downturn. Analysis evidences that businesses should look at increasing their campaigns to keep on top of their competitors. Those businesses that carefully and methodically kept up their advertising were better placed to keep their existing customers or even increase their market share.

Everybody wants to be a sailor until there is serious sailor stuff to do. Making decisions during a downturn is always more difficult, but is part of being a strong leader. Those that plan ahead will look as good as your clients after receiving one of your awesome treatments.

Charles Watson is the General Manager of Workforce Guardian.

Workforceguardian.com.au spaandclinic.com.au | 33

Business

How I knew it was time to open more salons Brow artist Natalie Bullock has recently relaunched her business with not one, but three locations.

We get the lowdown on how she managed to make such a bold move.

How did you start your career as a brow stylist?

I started with a love for all things beauty when I was in high school, year 12, as most therapists do. I finished high school and continued on with a 4-year beauty therapy apprenticeship. I was looking for something special after that, something that not many therapists were great at, so I went for an interview at a renowned Brow House in Double Bay. Being a Brow Artist fit well with my obsession with symmetry and balance. I had my time there as senior brow artist and then moved on to opening my own Brow Bar – Highbrow – in the Inner West, which operated for 10 years.

What was it like opening your first salon and what did you learn from that experience?

I was only 22 when I opened my first salon. I was completely ‘gung-ho’ and unafraid, which sounds crazy because I’m such a calculated person. It could have been my age, of course, and a lust for adventure, but I felt it was almost a calling and I knew it would be a success. Before I’d even finished the fit-out, I had ladies banging at the door. It was truly amazing. Within 6 months I was servicing 100 clients a week by myself and had waitlists a 34 | SPA+CLINIC

mile long. I learned from opening that first space that every business owner should stick to their vision, offer something niche and create a space that you really want to be in every day, because everyone else will want to be there, too. Pick and choose staff wisely as they also create a special feeling in your space, and mostly, be the master of your craft! Be crazy passionate - this will inspire and draw other passionate and driven people your way.

At what point did you know it was time to open a second salon?

The reason for the change of business model was to work around family commitments,

live the Aussie dream life and get more work balance. I started Highbrow Drummoyne as a young single lady with time and no commitments. Now I have three small children, all very close together. We moved from Drummoyne to the Sutherland Shire to follow my husband’s business ventures while we were creating little lives (babies). Instead of leasing three separate premises, I reached out to fellow Masters of their craft, such as high-end facialist Jessica Nash from Lady Luxe Beauty in Balmain. Her location was smack bang in the middle of my old client base, so utilising her space with an existing Highbrow client base was an easy decision.

BUSINESS

The second location in Beverly Hills is with Natalie Harvey, a fellow Brow Beater, creator of Brows of Beverly Hills. Her collaborative space was perfect for my service. Finally, I have a private studio close to home in the Sutherland Shire location.

As a working Mum, you need flexibility.

When you’re working in your own business, you can’t retreat for maternity leave and return with everything in the same place.

Small business requires constant monitoring and managing, so this new business model is perfect for the next step of my journey, being a mother and creating an amazing life with my husband Anthony and children.

As a salon owner, how do you make sure you can afford a(nother) salon?

I would tell anyone wanting to open a business to do a certificate in business studies before going ahead. Learning how to create business plans, updating them when situations change and making the business adaptable is important to survival. Being able to look

The hardest worker in your business will always be you at your own business, see flaws or changes in your market, and being able to change business direction, is an important skill. Finding a great accountant who specialises in small business is a must. This will relieve you of some paperwork and give you back time.

Opening a second salon or business is tricky, especially if you are the one who people are requesting. People trust you because of your reputation, so it’s hard to pass clients on to other stylists under you. In saying that, if you create a strategy that allows you to train and pass on techniques, creating almost a manual that everyone will follow, it is possible.

Business owners do need to realise that second businesses will not always make as

much as the first. Spreading yourself thin creates its own issues. The hardest worker in your business will always be you, so hiring people to run the second or third requires more financial output, wages, and costings.

If you can stick to a regimented training technique and work off the idea that your financial gain will be slightly less than the first business, then go for it. The sky is the limit.

How do you divide your time between all your salons?

Time these days is hard to come by. So now, I go where the demand takes me. Whatever bookings come through for a certain area I will fill up that day in that area. I service all areas at least 3 times a month. I have gone from regimented booking systems at Drummoyne to flexibility galore with this new business model and life is amazing! I can now balance family and passion. I couldn’t ask for more.

Natalie Bullock is the founder and director of High Brow Mastery. highbrowmastery.com.au

spaandclinic.com.au | 35

BUSINESS

New Year, New Décor!

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Founder of Spring Spa Wear, Leanne Spring talks us through her new spa décor range to spruce up your rooms.

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new season is upon us and with that comes new beginnings, new goals and new spa, clinic and salon décor! Each season is an opportunity to bring new life and personality to our businesses – while we don’t need to completely transform our spaces, adding a few new pieces here and there will renew and revive the energy in the room. Choosing pieces that reflect your professional style and work ethic will create a comfortable space for your clients to enjoy and feel welcome in. It will also support your overall branding and personality.

At Spring Spa Wear, we have developed a range of products and uniforms designed to make your life a lot easier and beautiful! We have thought of it all with each of our products and have developed a range that embodies a unique balance of style and convenience. Here are some of our favourites (and must haves!) from our latest range of spa accessories.

1. Copper Pedicure Bowl We are so excited to bring the Ancient Egyptian healing properties of copper to our range.

The beautiful Copper Pedicure Bowl is a gorgeous addition to any salon – its inviting, warm colours will suit any style or décor. And not to mention, its origins are a great conversation starter when you’re stuck for ideas.

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2. Signs A little charm goes a long way. These beautiful signs are a great way to give direction without giving direction. Whether you are going for a bohemian vibe or a raw industrial style, these signs are perfect for your space. Your clients will be so busy admiring these signs they’ll be lost for words (Yep, that means no phone calls mid appointment!).

3. Oil Sets

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Re-center and re-focus the energy of your spa with these gorgeous custom ceramic oil sets.

The spa bottles are a first in Australia and we are so excited to bring them to you! Our range includes two different colour options – choose from a soothing green set, or a soft white and timber colour combination. Either option will seamlessly coordinate with your chosen colour palette. The generic labels also allow you to create your own beautiful oil blends.

4. Pillows Have you used your treatment pillows yourself? Are they comfortable? Convenient? Cloudlike? Whether you choose our Face Pillow or Lash Pillow, comfort is a guarantee. Each pillow has been designed with its specific purpose in mind – from the slope of the pillow to the moisture-resistant foam of the Lash Pillow, these pillows are a spa, salon or clinic necessity.

Style these pillows with an overlay to stay consistent with your overall style.

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5. Wall Art

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36 | SPA+CLINIC

When it comes to wall art, we have to carefully select pieces that will inspire our clients but won’t distract or detract from our space. It’s important to think about your décor as an extension and reflection of your business – wall art must be tasteful and suitable. We have introduced four new beautiful prints to our range that are unique and will complement a range of salon, spa or clinic designs.

Refreshing your décor with these spa accessories will enhance your client experience and help you to connect with your clients on a deeper level. Perfecting the environment and energy within your spa, salon or clinic through décor is an easy way to ensure your clients feel welcome and comfortable during their visit. Take advantage of the new season and bring new life and energy to your space! Springspawear.com.au

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5-Star

What Makes A

Therapist?

We investigate the qualities shared by some of the very best in the industry.

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hat separates your average therapist from a 5-star therapist? Generally speaking, it’s the finer details, those little touches of love, going the extra mile to ensure a mind-blowing visit. But how are others really putting this ‘extra mile’ into practice?

We reached out to some of the country’s must luxurious day spas (all of whom boast incredibly high standards in order to cater to international guests) as well as some global experts about the most important qualities required for a truly exceptional practitioner.

Linda Widdon, Manager Elita Day Spa, Daydream Island A 5-star therapist will be someone who greets their client every time with eye contact, warmth and a genuine smile. Professionalism is another key star for me, giving your Elita, Daydream Island full attention to the client.

You can never ask too many questions as a therapist when doing a consult, it is just a matter of asking the right ones! I always ask – “if there were one thing you could achieve in today’s treatment what would it be?” This gives you an idea of where and how to target your treatment specifically to the client and shows you are listening to their concerns.

As the therapist, you should give your all to your client and when you do, it does 5-star therapist traits not go unnoticed. When performing according to Linda: your treatments, meaning each move and putting emotion into your touch • Make eye contact makes such a difference to your client’s • Ask questions experience as your energy is passed • Put emotion into your touch onto them. You should always be looking • Be honest at the bigger picture for your client.

Don’t just give them a serum for their acne – is there an underlying condition that may be causing it? Can you recommend them

onto another local practitioner such as a dietitian, naturopath or nutritionist?

If you’re a therapist that has regular clients, remember the little things like the holiday they are taking in a week with their grandchildren and be sure to ask how it was when they return.

Honesty is a big thing in beauty, especially when it comes to things such as a simple brow wax or a nail polish colour. Be honest with your client if you think that colour will or won’t suit them, or if they need to leave that odd looking hair that may look like it needs to go, because in the end it will give them the shape they desire.

Finally, you want to make them feel like they are the most important person in the room. I know that statement can seem so cliché but when you are a client, to feel like your therapist is doing everything you’ve asked and then some, is the best feeling in the world! > spaandclinic.com.au | 37

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Nicolette McCarthy, Manager Spa Qualia, Hamilton Island

Spa Qualia, Hamilton Island

from the beginning, a soothing spoken ritual to open and close the treatment and long, slow, luxurious touch are the kind of deliverables that take a spa experience from good to great, and make a lasting impact on our guests.

A much loved spa director I once worked for would always say that spa therapists are like swans, scrambling beneath the surface but gliding gracefully on top making it all look effortless, and I use that analogy with my team regularly because the way that we move through this beautiful space we are so lucky to inhabit affects the energy and experiences that we are delivering; that’s why self-care, communication and intention are so important.

When time and space are in short supply in our modern world, the ability to put guests at ease and into a state of deep relaxation is a valuable commodity, and connection is the ultimate luxury.

Sandy Fuhr, President

Spa therapists require the unique CIDESCO International ability to connect and build How a client enjoys their spa rapport with their guests fairly experience can almost entirely instantaneously, creating a safe depend on the quality of their and nurturing environment therapist. Having had the that will allow the guest opportunity to judge spas and to completely relax into their spa therapists all around the world, experience. How do we do this, you the most important points which arise are evident ask? Well, first and foremost I think globally. As a client, it is essential to find a therapist to it’s about the self-care practices be sensitive, responsive, calm and competent, then the 5-star therapist traits that we have which allow us to chances of rescheduling at the same spa with the same according to Nicolette: come to work each day calm therapist is much higher.

• Create a safe environment and centred and able to hold Making your client feel welcome isn’t limited to a • Practice self-care space for others. Amongst smile and hello. Ensure your client receives the greeting • Communicate back to guests our team of wonderful and which you’d expect in return. Introducing yourself on • Be graceful unique therapists this can look a first-name basis and simply asking about their day different for each of us, some like can immediately create a rapport between you and to meditate, some go for a run in your client, who is your guest. A spa treatment is an nature, some are social butterflies who opportunity for guests to unwind and switch off for fill their cup spending time among friends. a moment in time. The friendly and calm welcome That innate empathy and caring nature is really will set the experience on the right tone. For some what separates a 5-star therapist from the rest and it clients this may be their first time visiting a spa, so really does take work to show up for others every day it is important that they are familiarised with their and give 100%. To a large degree that’s something you surroundings, including the key areas such as toilets and either have or you don’t, but usually people who are changing rooms, and the protocols to ensure drawn to this line of work are beautiful souls who love their stay is smooth and comfortable. Be taking care of people. Another vital element is the ability very clear with what is required of to communicate back to guests so they know they’ve them as preparation prior to their 5-star therapist been heard and can trust that we understand them and visit and their treatment. traits according to Sandy: will deliver what they need. This can be reiterating in Asking questions is important.

• A warm, friendly things they’ve told us verbally, but also those areas of Whilst you may be an expert greeting sets the tone tension that are speaking to us through touch. After that, in your chosen treatments, • Regularly check in with the client it’s about intention and attention to detail and these are it is unlikely that you will during treatments skills that can definitely be cultivated. automatically know the needs • Gauge if the client wants Service elements such as making sure that from of every client. Communication to talk or not the moment we greet our guests, we engage with eye between the therapist and • Provide detailed contact and a smile. Once in the treatment room our guest during the treatment post-treatment care wellness consultation is performed during a grounding is essential. Talking through the foot ritual so that we have that hands on touch right treatment beforehand helps to prompt 38 | SPA+CLINIC

The Crown Spa Indulgence Suite

further questions and creates a general 5-star therapist traits understanding of the benefits and comfort according to Emma: for the client. Depending on how long the • Offer personalised, treatment is, regularly check with your discreet services client if the pressure or touch is suitable • Be flexible for loyal clients or needs amending. This will show you are • Keep on top of industry trends engaged with your client and are adaptable • Engage in regular training to their needs.

Once the therapist has these questions answered, the treatment can be geared toward becoming a best-quality and unforgettable experience: one which is memorable to the extent that it becomes worthy of positive word-of-mouth marketing.

Whilst some clients won’t wish to engage in conversation throughout their treatment, some may.

It’s about finding the balance. This is often based upon first impressions, but it can become apparent through social cues whether they wish to engage or not. Asking questions beforehand such as what initiated booking this treatment, e.g. if it is for stress management, may provide an indication of how open to conversation they may be.

After every treatment, the client should leave knowing how to prolong the benefits of their treatment and any other post-treatment advice. When selling a selection of products bespoke to your clients, ensure you have thorough knowledge of the brand, its ingredients and functions. A clear post-treatment plan has proven to ensure that your client will return.

Emma McGrady, Director Crown Spa, Melbourne Crown Spa Melbourne has been open for over 22 years, and we know that no matter how remarkable our facilities are, they are secondary to the excellence of service created through thoughtful and genuine interactions that ensure a guest’s journey with us is nothing short of extraordinary.

Sally tailors a treatment specific to her guests' needs.

Crown Spa Beauty Therapist, Sally Howard has been employed by Crown for over 21 years and showcases all of the qualities that make a 5-star therapist. During this time, Sally has demonstrated passion and dedication, and has been instrumental in supporting new spa systems, multiple renovations, and is always willing to make new staff members feel at home.

Sally, who has been a part of the beauty industry for over 33 years, believes Crown Spa’s unique and ever changing environment is one of the things she loves most about her role. In addition, Sally says that the exceptional customer service she provides guests on a daily basis and her unwavering passion for the industry is always at the forefront of her mind during every treatment.

Sally prides herself on delivering personal yet discreet service to each and every one of her guests and she customises their treatment to ensure the perfect delivery. The treatment is adapted as required, whether it be allowing extra time on a stressed area or using essential oils to uplift or destress her guest, Sally tailors a treatment specific to her guests' needs.

Guests in turn trust Sally and ensure that they rebook with her; in fact some guests have been returning to Sally for 21 years and are located locally, interstate and even internationally.

Sally’s willingness to provide exceptional service to guests is shown through her flexible work hours when required, so that she can deliver for her returning clients.

Sally loves to keep on top of new products and trends and finds that ongoing product and treatment training from partners La Prairie and Subtle Energies invaluable.

I believe that Sally truly is a 5-Star Therapist, “Australia’s most luxurious spa demands the brightest and most passionate staff. Sally’s friendly and energetic personality is contagious, and she consistently engages those around her.” spaandclinic.com.au | 39

Business

What We Can Learn From

Australia’s Best Wellness Retreat We get the inside scoop from Eden Health Retreat.

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s a business, one of the best ways to learn, grow and stay progressive in your offerings is to take inspiration from those already leading the way. It doesn’t need to be a case of feeling threatened by your competitors, but rather, to look at what makes another business unique and attractive to their clients, and let those concepts offer you some clarification on what makes your own brand unique, and what you could be doing differently.

But this information can’t always be fully gathered without actually visiting in person – which sometimes simply isn’t possible.

Thankfully, Eden Health Retreat was kind enough to share some exclusive insights into their business, their story, and what they owe their successes to. Winner of the 2019 World Spa Awards' Best Wellness Retreat, Eden is one of Australia’s longest established health retreats, offering an organic, smokefree, alcohol-free experience in the secluded tranquillity of the Currumbin Valley. Chris van Hoof, Manager at Eden, gives us the inside scoop.

the real star of the show is our location. Our property is located in the stunning Currumbin Valley, on the Queensland and New South Wales boarder. This location allows our guests to spend time in nature, nurturing their soul, working alongside our skilled therapists and retreat team.

We also know that the reason Eden is so successful is due to the group dynamic that evolves throughout the week; we call it the “people experience.” Alongside your fellow guests, who are in the same situation as you, you get in touch with nature, yourself, your thoughts and your emotions.

Due to our position, our guests also don’t have access to wi-fi, which helps them switch off from the demands of the modern world.

Our daily menu, which focuses on optimal nutrition, ensures that our guests don’t go hungry, and instead, teaches them that good food can taste amazing, AND be filling.

What do you believe makes Eden unique from other retreats?

Our staff includes some of the most experienced health and wellness people in Australia. Whether it’s our talented chef ensuring that all meals are nutritionally balanced, locally sourced, organic and tasty, or our spa staff who are skilled in helping our guests achieve maximum relaxation and rejuvenation through our many treatments.

Our fitness staff, which includes yoga instructors, Pilates teachers and personal trainers, are also experts in helping guests achieve their fitness goals – not just during their stay with us, but after they return to the ‘real world’.

Eden Health Retreat is Australia’s longest running, and first-established retreat: we’re 36 years young! We encourage guests to devote six full days to their health journey (most other retreats offer a shorter stay).

We believe that by taking this time to detoxify from stress, digital demands and nutritional crutches, such as coffee and sugar, our guests will reap the benefits of our staff ’s expertise and experience.

Alongside our amazing staff, tasty food and outstandingly successful programme, 40 | SPA+CLINIC

What do staff do to ensure visitors have an exceptional experience?

We’re constantly getting feedback on how nurturing our staff are, and their unwavering ability to meet each week’s group’s various needs. We have created a safe space for our guests and our staff work hard to make sure everyone’s needs and enjoyment levels are met.

We aim to give each guest a bespoke experience which suits their individual journey. Whether it’s to improve fitness, detox mind and body, or just achieve peak relaxation, our staff work hard to ensure each and every guests’ needs are met.

What kind of marketing & social media efforts do you engage in to ensure you stay top of mind?

We are active on Instagram and Facebook and ensure that we respond quickly to any queries which may arise on these social media channels. We stay in contact with our guests through a monthly newsletter, regular

BUSINESS

blog posts on our website, and an offer to book their next stay at a discounted rate.

How rigorous/important are your staff hiring and training procedures?

We’re very fortunate our staff have been with us for many years – for instance Barry Hogg, our Tibetan yoga teacher has been here for 36 years, since the retreat began.

For most of our staff, Eden Health Retreat is a way of life, as much as a career.

It’s important to keep in mind that when we are building the team at Eden that any new staff understand the retreat journey and how to best support others as a week at Eden unfolds. Our staff are one big family and we enjoy welcoming our guests, old and new, back each week.

AUSTRALIA’S PRINCIPAL PROVIDER OF MASSAGE EQUIPMENT

What do you think you owe most of your success to?

The staff at Eden Health Retreat are undoubtedly what makes us so special. They are fully qualified in so many different elements of health and wellbeing, and their purpose is to help others on their own path to be the best possible version of themselves they can be.

And of course, it goes without saying that our guests greatly contribute to our success. Their enthusiasm for our program, the guests who return year after year, and the invaluable feedback they share with us as they experience their journey during their stay, helps us to improve and strive to be the best we can be.

What can other spa & wellness businesses learn from Eden?

Health and wellness isn’t just something to boast about on social media, or a new trend to follow. We believe that wellness is something everyone should experience. We aim to instil long-lasting changes into our guests’ way of thinking and behaving, breaking old habits (both emotional, physical, mental and dietary), and introducing new, positive behaviours which serve them well for the rest of their lives.

Changes don’t happen overnight, which is why we provide access to recipes and wellbeing advice on our blog for guests to revisit whenever they need a ‘top-up’ and a reminder of the Eden magic. What sets us apart from other retreats, is that we consider every guest at Eden Health Retreat as a part of our family. edenhealthretreat.com.au

Much more than just massage tables, our range includes, treatment and spa tables, table covers, massage chairs, massage stones, oils, balms and lotions, bolsters and cushions, massage tools and clinic accessories.

Visit us at the Melbourne Beauty Expo for our latest and greatest!

Stand A104

www.firm-n-fold.com.au Brisbane . Melbourne . Sydney . Gold Coast Freecall 1800 640 524

COVER STORY

Waterlily Is Setting A New Benchmark In Wellness The clean beauty movement is going strong with Waterlily by Michelle Reeve leading the way in results-driven, botanical formulations.

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aterlily is a professional clinical brand born from a naturopathic approach to skin where health is at the heart of each formulation. Instead of the commonly held remedial aesthetic approach, the Waterlily philosophy is about strengthening dermal resilience through nutritionally complex formulations, clean and green cosmeceuticals and precious botanical actives giving rise to a revolutionary age-proofing skin solution an authentic wellness brand delivering real results.

This philosophy was imagined by Michelle Reeve, not only founder and formulator for Waterlily, but thought leader, writer and guest contributor to the wellness industry.

Her philosophy aligns to the wholefood movement where slow skincare and fresh batched beauty is central to each product and ritual.

Michelle explains, “global trends indicate that the beauty movement is adopting these

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same mindful green slow food behaviours to ingredient selection and preparation.

We want to know not only what is in our products but where these ingredients have come from and how they were extracted.

Ultimately, consumers want to know the story behind how their skincare has been manufactured, to align with the values of these companies.”

The Future Laboratory Report states that, “growing health concerns over synthetic chemicals are turning consumers away from mass produced, over-processed cosmetics and towards fresh, small-batch concoctions with ingredients that address their safety concerns and avoid the need for harmful preservatives.”

This grass roots company born from humble beginnings has evolved into a cult like following. 2020 sees the Australian made home grown wellness brand Waterlily celebrate 15 years! Let’s take a look at the ethos behind their success.

Slow Skincare Every product is hand crafted in Brisbane at Waterlily’s very own botanical laboratory.

Formulations are created in house by founder and formulator Michelle Reeve, then her paddock to plate ethos underlies the artisanal hand-crafting approach to manufacturing. Each product is created fresh each month, which is very different to the batch size of many mainstream contract manufactured or imported products, which can be years old before they even get to the shelf.

Clean and Green Beauty Think about your diet. The complexity of vitamins, minerals, trace elements, amino acids, protein, enzymes, antioxidants, and omega rich fatty acids which fill a plate to optimise health. “Considering skin is our largest organ, it’s surprising how relaxed we are exposing it to an abundance of synthetic chemicals, the kind that we would never

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Founder of Waterlily, Michelle Reeve

be comfortable ingesting from our dinner plate.” Michelle explains, “and while these ingredients may not be bad for us, it’s more that they lack nutrition and benefit. It’s the opportunity cost of action-packing our cosmeceutical formulation with nutrient rich botanicals essential to intensify results.”

Revolutionary Cosmeceuticals The SPACEUTICALS Collection integrates green and clean cosmeceuticals with omega rich botanical bases to provide an anti-ageing corrective solution while age-proofing with naturopathic infusions of botanical nutrients.

At the heart of the SPACEUTICALS collection is a meticulous selection of advanced cosmeceutical actives in clinically trialled concentrations captured in a blend of powerful phyto-actives. Think resveratrol to boost collagen, skin perfecting niacinamide in concentrations as high as 15%, coenzyme Q10 to reverse wrinkles, alpha lipoic acid to protect against ageing and oxidation, folic acid for DNA repair, stabilised Vitamin C for connective tissue, Heptapeptide-7 and Granactive Retinoid* for anti-ageing, AHA’s and BHA’s to refine

and resurface, along with anti-ageing vitamins, probiotics, and the list goes on!

Seasonal Performance Facials A seasonal approach to skincare is the foundation of the slow skincare movement; honouring your skin by harnessing nutrients that align with seasonal demands to nourish, protect and defend from inflammation and ageing indications.

In addition to a comprehensive treatment menu tailored for clinics, salons and spa, Waterlily offers a limited edition seasonal performance facial each spring-summer and autumn-winter. This professionally exclusive luxury skin treatment captures a botanical harvest with advanced cosmeceutical actives to target seasonal skin concerns.

The treatment is a complete seasonal campaign with a strong retail solution including GWP, merchandising package and social media kit to activate and energise the marketing calendar.

Sacred Rituals Beauty should be a ritual. Clinical grade aromaceuticals provide the cornerstone

of each formulation. The therapeutic value of these concentrated actives serves as a remedial approach to skin indications while the aromatic touchpoints activate deep relaxation. “We understand that stress and inflammation underpin all ageing within the body. A wholistic approach to treatment rituals isn’t about fluff and pampering. It’s about engaging the parasympathetic nervous system to activate transformational change both internally and topically.

Homecare Prescriptions Waterlily offers luxury retail lines including WATERLILY, SPACEUTICALS and AROMA THERAPY by WATERLILY. The botanical brand heritage is layered throughout each hand crafted collection. For the guest it is not a brand choice, but rather a brand journey. Each exclusive line offers guests an alternative in price point, skin condition and experience without compromising on integrity or results.

Waterlily Australasia enquiries@waterlilyskinbodyspa.com.au P: 07 3390 3988 waterlilyskinbodyspa.com.au spaandclinic.com.au | 43

SPA HOTSPOT

Sense of Balance There is a luxurious wellness haven in the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong. Nadine Dilong shares her experience at The Oriental Spa.

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couple of months ago, I was lucky to travel to Hong Kong for Cosmoprof, and at the top of my bucket list – besides eating lots of dumplings – was visiting the esteemed Oriental Spa. Taking up two entire floors of the Landmark Mandarin Oriental in Hong Kong, it is one of the world’s leading hotel wellness destinations, offering a holistic approach to beauty and wellbeing. Facilities include jaw-droppingly gorgeous amethyst crystal steam rooms, vitality pools, experience showers, a Hamam steam and scrub room, Asia’s first Moroccan rasul, Roman laconium (dry heat), herbal sauna, tropical rain saunas as well as 15 private treatment rooms, in addition to an indoor heated swimming pool and pilates and yoga studios.

Upon my arrival, I get served a cup of tea and a wet towel that smells like fresh flowers to clean my hands, and to prepare myself for a relaxing afternoon at this wellness haven in the middle of Hong Kong’s busy fashion district, surrounded by high-rise buildings and shopping centers. I would describe the spa’s interior as modern with an Asian influence; natural materials such as bamboo, stone and wood are used in every room.

After changing into a very fluffy robe and gushing over their wide range of toiletries and styling tools (brushes, combs, hair ties, face wash, hair dryer, hair straightener to name just a few) on offer, I make my way into the pre- and post-treatment lounge area. The moody, dimly lit room comprises 7 lounges, separated by sheer curtains for privacy, each equipped with a set of headphones and an adjustable light. Magazines as well as a selection of dried fruit, nuts, infused water and tea are on offer to make guests feel comfortable before and after their treatments.

My therapist, Kelly, is soft spoken and guides me to my treatment room, which feels warm and welcoming.

After explaining the 120-minute ‘Sense of Balance’ treatment to me, she starts with the chiming of Tibetan singing bowls – a Bhuddist tradtion often used in meditation practices – to signify the beginning of the treatment. A dry body scrub with ginseng is applied to my whole body to lift dry skin with Kelly only using small amounts of the product, applying it with the gentlest of touches in repetitive, circular motions. It feels less abrasive than other body scrubs I’ve had in 44 | SPA+CLINIC

The amethyst crystal steam room

My treatment room feels warm and welcoming

the past, but it is just as effective. After I wash the scrub off, the Chinese Meridian Massage begins. During this massage, the therapist doesn’t touch my skin, but leaves a towel in between her hands and me. This doesn’t make the massage any less effective though; I can feel the muscles in my body move and stretch. Kelly focuses on my upper back and shoulders and kneads, pushes and pulls every muscle around my spine with strong, but controlled movements. I’m surprised by the thoroughness of the massage as it even includes my inner thighs, hands, and calves. Around my more sensitive areas, such as my upper arms and calves, the massage gets a little uncomfortable at times, but in an oddly satisfying way. I can feel my body relax and let go of a lot of tension. After a blissful scalp massage, it is time for the most intriguing part of the treatment

SPA HOTSPOT

A scented towel is served upon entering the spa

There are 15 private treatment rooms

– cupping. Cupping therapy is a traditional Chinese and Middle Eastern practice and is often used as a complementary therapy to treat a variety of conditions, such as back pain and certain skin issues.

Kelly applies six cups on my back, and as the cups suck in my skin, I can feel the pressure and tension in my back turn into a warm, pleasant feeling. It doesn’t hurt – and I’m not even bruised after the treatment. Kelly later tells me that, since this was my first cupping treatment, she went easy on me, but in advanced cupping therapy, a small flame within the cup is lit to create the vaccum and pressure. I don’t think I’m quite ready for that yet.

After two hours of pure relaxation, I go back to the lounge area and enjoy a cup of rose tea and some almonds. I wish I could stay at the Oriental Spa all day and didn’t have to venture back out into the hustle

A mix of textures and materials can be seen and felt

The Oriental Spa has received several awards as well as a Forbes 5-star rating

The large lounge area

and bustle of Hong Kong, but even when I finally bring myself to do so, I manage to stay blissfully relaxed, and end up having an impressive eight hours of uninterrupted sleep that night – got to love the postspa ‘side effects’.

The Oriental Spa has received several awards as well as a Forbes 5-star rating, and after my time there, I can definitely see why. During a chat with Director of Spa & Wellness, Robert Jeffers, he tells me about the Oriental’s exclusive spa membership, limited to only 100 people, offering members unlimited access to all facilities as well as a monthly spa credit and unlimited yoga classes. I can only imagine the extensive wait list there must be – I would certainly be on it if I lived in Hong Kong. mandarinoriental.com/hong-kong/ the-landmark/luxury-spa spaandclinic.com.au | 45

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Bali Bliss Join us on a dream escape to some of Bali’s best spas and wellness retreats to learn what makes them stand out

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Wellness

Brought to you by

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here’s a lot to love about Bali – tropical weather, fresh and delicious food, incredibly warm and friendly people that never stop smiling, boundless heritage and culture, and a visible focus on improving sustainability and reducing waste.

We shouldn’t have been surprised then to discover that, for some of these reasons and more, Bali is home to some of the most impressive and memorable day spas and wellness resorts we’ve seen yet.

Aside from physically breathtaking locations themselves, each of which are unique in their own right in terms of offerings, colour and structure, something that all luxury Bali spas seem to offer in droves is their incredible attention to detail - the special touches. Guests can always expect the friendliest of welcomes, by each and every staff member they encounter (always greeted with “Miss *insert first name here*” and a ‘thank you’ at every turn) every touch is slow

and deliberate with nothing rushed, every room pristinely presented, and there is always an abundance of freshly brewed herbal tea and healthy snacks to nibble on. Above all, you can see plain as day that every therapist you encounter has a genuine desire to please, to deliver the very best they can, and to ensure that every visitor leaves as happy as can possibly be.

The SPA+CLINIC team were lucky enough to visit ‘the island of the gods’ (as it is frequently referred to as) in order to experience this incredible spa culture, so that we may bring you first-hand, insider details of what we truly believe may be some of the best spa locations in the world. Starting at the world renowned Ritz Carlton whose ocean-inspired spa uses French cult brand Thalgo, on to W Bali’s award-winning AWAY Spa, the life-changing REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort, the incredibly special Kriya Spa at Grand Hyatt, and finally, the uberluxurious Bulgari Resort.

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The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Nusa Dua T

ucked away below the cliffs of the hotel’s main entrance, the Ritz Carlton Spa is a Zen oasis surrounded by lush greenery, and we enter through the spa reception after passing by several large waterlily-filled coy ponds, peace-inspiring statues and light installations. Water is a source of cleansing and renewal across cultures, and in Bali, the ocean has long played an important role. Honoring this belief in both its setting and services, the RitzCarlton has also chosen a marine-based skincare brand for its spa, Thalgo, which has been harnessing the ocean’s ingredients and their extraordinary potential for over 40 years.

Seated in the spa’s large reception area, we are instantly refreshed with some iced ginger tea and essential oil-infused cold hand towels whilst completing our consultation cards. Our ultra-friendly therapists come over to greet us by name and introduce themselves. We are

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ushered around the corridor, through another Zen garden or two and up a flight of stairs to the treatment rooms.

Thalgo Indoceane Inside the large and ambiently lit space, I am led to the well-appointed dressing room and encouraged to swap out my outfit for a thick waffle robe, disposable underwear and a pair of woven bamboo slippers, before my therapist walks me through the Thalgo products about to be used on me for the treatment. I then take a seat on the lounge for the foot ritual that precedes every treatment. This includes a warm water bath decorated with rose petals, the application of a sea salt scrub, followed by a dowsing and massaging of a whole fresh lime - an unusual but authentic touch.

Once dried, I am invited to make myself comfortable face down on the Balinese sarong-adorned treatment bed. After my therapist has checked that I’m happy with my positioning, the temperature of the room and the volume of the music, the treatment commences, signalled with a soft bell chime.

The Indoceane body treatment, which utilises all Thalgo products, sees the therapist apply an oil solution to the skin first before using a salt and sugar scrub to gently but effectively exfoliate and improve circulation and lymph flow. The back of each leg is done one after the other, then my back before turning over. A soft pillow is placed under my head immediately after I turn, and a subtly fragranced eye mask placed over my eyes. The fronts of legs are carried out, then

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Most memorable at the Ritz Carlton Spa: The incorporation of a sound element during the Thalgo facial took the client experience to the next level – making it a truly sensorial experience like nothing we’ve seen before.

Engaging senses other than just touch and smell can really indulge and transport clients, elevating their holistic journey to new heights.

upper torso including breasts (after permission was sought prior of course!) before I’m back in the dressing room to shower. A divine softness and floral scent lingers on my skin from the scrub.

Once I’ve returned to the freshly-made bed, I’m face down again for a divine back massage. Pleasantly hot, fragrant patchoulibased oil is drizzled over my skin before my therapist commences with a medium pressure massage as per my request. She kneels over me on top of the bed to ensure pressure is evenly dispersed, using a combination of hands, forearm and elbow strokes. Once the treatment ends (again, signalled with a soft bell chime) I am invited back downstairs for a different variety of detox tea and some handmade sesame, seaweed and caramel biscuits.

Thalgo Heart Of The Ocean After the beautiful foot ritual, my therapist guides me to the very comfortable treatment bed and continues to wrap my hair in a cloth - not just to protect it from the products used during my facial,

but she starts the treatment by gliding her hands over the cloth around my head, which also covers my ears.

This creates a sound akin to that of crushing waves at the beach, a small detail that sets the tone for this facial perfectly as Thalgo is a French skincare brand famous for their micronised Marine Algae, sourcing only the highest quality ingredients found in the ocean.

My face is double cleansed before dead skin is lifted using a physical exfoliation product with soft beads. Gentle but thorough circular motions leave my skin squeaky clean, and after about 45 minutes, a thick soothing and hydrating mask is applied and left to work its magic while my therapist indulges me in a relaxing scalp, neck, and shoulder massage. The mask is removed using a soft and lightly fragranced towel before a protective moisturiser rich in antioxidants is applied to set me up for the day. My skin is left feeling intensely hydrated and supple.

We are then invited to enjoy the rest of the spa’s facilities before we head off on our way. We are shown to the locker rooms, where we are given an innovative electronic bracelet instead of locker key that allows guests to wear it into water and not misplace it. The lockers are filled with robes, slippers, and towels, and we change before exploring the rooms beyond. There are several hydrotherapy options available to hotel guests – first is the Hydro Vital pools, with several different installations including massage jets, resistance corridor, outdoor showers and more. Then there is the Balinese pool, a particularly lush private area surrounded by lounge chairs, canopied beds, and lush forest – where we’re lucky enough to spot a few playful monkeys.

We head inside to the Prana Relaxation Lounge, which is filled with individual ergonomic chairs and sheer dividing curtains, plus iced tea, water, and even dried chickpeas to nibble on – the perfect end to our Ritz-Carlton Spa experience. spaandclinic.com.au | 49

W Bali, Seminyak T

here is no hotel like a W hotel. Born in New York City in 1998, the Marriot owned hotel chain has taken the world by storm targeting a younger crowd that wants to travel in style and be offered more than ‘just’ a hotel room. From the eclectic art to bright colours and dance music at every corner, it’s very clear that this isn’t your average luxury hotel. W Bali Seminyak is no different.

No matter what you do or where you go, you will experience personalisation and the celebration of individuality. Want to choose your own coffee mug for breakfast? You can. Want a specific type of pillow for your bed? You’ll get it. Would you prefer a vanilla or lavender scented cold towel at reception? The choice is yours.

Just like W, AWAY Spa has boundless personality, with bright pops of colour and incandescent lighting, but that doesn’t detract from its ability to inspire ultimate and luxurious pampering and relaxation. Entrants to the spa follow a winding path across a tranquil pond, which features lit up tiles with inspiring words throughout like ‘bright’, ‘joy’ ‘energise’ and ‘detox’. The reception space is clean, white and bright without being clinical, featuring lots of peace-inspiring smooth curves and contours in its furniture and textured walls. Signature fragranced mists are stationed at reception for guests to refresh themselves while they wait.

True to the hotel’s motto of ‘Whenever/Wherever’, AWAY Spa is open 24/7, meaning hotel guests can literally book a massage at 3am if they feel like it. When we ask the spa director if this service is used at all, she assures us that more often than not, the spa will be busy in the middle of the night due to jetlagged travellers unable to sleep, or party-goers coming back from a night out wanting to detox and relax.

We complete our consults and are shown throughout the spa’s facilities. There is a well-appointed dressing room, fabulously lit with ceiling high Hollywood mirrors and bulbs, hair curler, straightener and dryer, hairspray, body lotion, moisturiser and deodorant. There is also a wet area with spa and plunge pool plus a steam room.

We spend several minutes back outside in another waiting lounge, where two oxygen masks (and alcohol wipes for cleaning) are available for spa patrons to use to improve circulation. The oxygen flow can be turned on and off via a switch on the wall, and so we sit and breathe in the goodness for a few minutes while awaiting our therapists.

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Body Honey My therapist guides me through long hallways of AWAY Spa, past the Chill Bar where spa goers can retox (ordering cocktails) after detoxing and several lounge areas. My treatment room would be better described as an apartment, comprised of three large rooms and bathroom. The first features a sofa and foot scrub bowls waiting for me to dip my feet in. The second features two massage beds, complete with purple neon light coming from beneath in true W style, and the third room includes a stone bath tub and two more treatment beds reserved for the first part of my treatment, a full body scrub.

A fine powder made from honey and mango is used to rub all over my body, not only lifting dead skin, but also replenishing my skin with some much needed moisture after a day in the Bali sun.

I can feel the exfoliation, but it is one of the least abrasive scrubs I have had - perfect for sensitive skin. After the thorough scrub, I am guided towards the shower to rinse it off before returning to a fresh set of satin sheets.

My therapist applies a hydrating coconut mask all over my body, starting with my back and continuing with my arms, legs, stomach, and

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Most memorable at the W Bali AWAY Spa:

We were impressed by the high level of interactivity at W’s AWAY Spa, ensuring guests were engaged at every turn. This held true from the LED screens displayed below the treatment beds to the oxygen masks visitors could use while they waited, and even a collection of prayer stones at reception allowing guests to make a wish as they tossed it into the water on their way out.

chest. The mask is clay based but quite thin and feels very refreshing, and I can see and feel pieces of coconut flesh in it. I am wrapped in several layers of sheets while the mask is nurturing my skin, and to make the time even more pleasant I enjoy a scalp, neck and shoulder massage for a few minutes, before returning to the shower to wash off the clay, which has since dried on my skin.

I am guided to the other room with two massage beds in it and lie face down on one of them, only to discover cleverly placed screens in the floor directly under my face showing a slideshow of beautiful calming images of several natural landscapes. I then indulge in a 60-minute full body massage – so blissful that I nod off several times.

Raw Energy My treatment begins in the pedicure area, with the foot cleansing ritual that offers a quick, firm pressure massage and a beautiful rinse using clean hot water poured gently from a large pre-prepared jug.

The room’s four beds are dressed in deep purple satin which feels incredible against my skin as I take my place face down on the bed.

After the usual checks of comfort, room temperature and music volume are complete, my full body scrub begins. It’s a buttery salt and sugar scrub, firm and rich. My therapist performs a deep sloughing of my legs followed by my back before I turn over.

After permission to cover my eyes had been granted, my therapist begins brow, forehead, temple and scalp pressures, even a superquick scalp massage, before gently sliding an eye pillow over my

face. This little ritual is carried out every time my eye pillow is used throughout the treatment, which is an incredibly nice touch.

My fronts-of-legs, arms, stomach and décolletage are given a buff, including (as per my previous body scrub) my arms raised above my head in order to thoroughly scrub the underarm area. I am gently helped upward so I can rinse off the scrub, and head to another bed for a body wrap.

The liquid detox body wrap has been slightly warmed, and my therapist applies it by hand to my back as she supports. I am slowly lowered down, with wrap then applied to my legs, arms, stomach and décolletage. I’m wrapped up tightly and comfortably in a cocoon, with additional blanket and eye mask added, then treated to a deep scalp massage. Once my metamorphosis is complete and I am removed from my cocoon, I head once again to the shower, rinse the wrap, and lie face down ready for a blissful full body massage, using an earthy jojoba, sandalwood and gardenia body oil.

I’m gently awoken at the end of my massage to be told my revitalising bath is now ready, and that I can enjoy the room for 25 minutes longer. My therapist shows me where a fresh robe, disposable underwear and slippers are waiting when finished, and bids me farewell for now.

The giant stone bath that is in my room is filled with fresh lime slices, rosemary sprigs and mint leaves, and is accompanied by a platter of fruit, banana chips, colourful candy and the spa’s signature refreshment beverage, pineapple coconut and ginger juice. The fragrant water is the perfect temperature, and I enjoy a deep sense of relaxation before meeting my therapist back outside, only to be led to another post-treatment relaxation lounge to indulge in more refreshment beverage, fresh fruit, banana chips and a fabulous red lip-shaped shortbread cookie. spaandclinic.com.au | 51

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REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort, Nusa Dua S

tress is one of our biggest problems as a society. Often dubbed the ‘health epidemic of the 21st century’, stress makes us sick, anxious, and ultimately, unhappy. And for those that can’t take the pressure of our daily lives anymore, and those who just want to feel better, health and wellness retreats are a great solution.

The idea is to go far away from your home and all its chores and routines, and spend a few days – or if you’re lucky, weeks – focusing on exercise, a healthy diet, and your metal health; all with the help of professionals that will guide you through it. This can be tough, so it helps if the retreat is not only visually stunning, but also offers you luxurious accommodation and 5-star service from its staff. Such is the case with REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort in Bali’s Nusa Dua. I was lucky enough to experience a short, but superb two-day retreat at REVĪVŌ, which made a lasting impression on me, from the moment I was picked up at the airport to the very last friendly smile at checkout. REVĪVŌ literally means ‘I’ll live again’, and the retreat’s name reflects the result it wants to help you achieve: a better, healthier life. The resort “aims to soother the spirit, rejuvenate the body and enrich the mind through a complete mind journey comprised of diverse relaxation activities - yoga, Pilates, energy arts

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Most memorable at REVĪVŌ Wellness Resort:

What stood out to us most was the warmth and caring nature of the staff. Every interaction we had felt genuine and special, whether it was talking to the waiter during lunch, or talking to the doctor and yoga teacher. It goes to show how important your staff’s attitude and body language are when it comes to providing an excellent client experience.

and meditation, superlative SPA, holistic medicinal treatmentsand a personalised food diet based on each customer’s nutritional needs,” reads the brochure, and it’s exactly what I experienced.

A bottle of water, healthy seed crackers and turmeric cookies were waiting for me in my driver’s car when I was picked up from Denpasar airport, plus, a cold, lightly fragranced towel to seemingly wash away all my sorrows (and sweat from the humid and hot weather).

After checking in to my beautiful suite, including one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in, a rain shower, private garden, and a fresh fruit platter, I enjoyed the first healthy meal tailored to my health goals and preferences: A bowl of alkaline broth, followed by grilled chicken salad, and a delicious and refreshing desert in the form of homemade mango sorbet - all prepared fresh and with local ingredients.

The active part of my programme consisted of a one-hour class of Aquafit Yoga (yoga on a floating mat in the resort’s pool - highly challenging!), a fat-burning, high intensity boxing class, a pranayama class where I was taught different breathing techniques to relax the body and mind, and a Vinyasa yoga class. In between classes I was served delicious healthy meals and also had access to all the facilities, which include a 25m lap pool, sauna and steam room, cold and hot plunge pool, gym, and yoga barns.

But what makes REVĪVŌ’s wellness programmes especially effective and authentic, is the personal consultation with a doctor that every participant gets. This isn’t a fluffy TED talk about eating healthier and moving more, but an in-depth conversation and analysis of my health and lifestyle habits, and what exactly I need to do to feel better and lead a healthier life. Besides the encouraging

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and informative words from the doctor, I also receive a book that includes notes about my wellness programme, what I want to achieve, and how I can make it happen.

Mindfulness plays an important role at REVĪVŌ, and it’s the little things that make the biggest difference, such as the ‘Mindfulness Practice Before Bed’, which consists of a small card that is placed on guests’ bed every afternoon, ready to be read right before going to sleep. Every card has a different theme and assignment, my favourite being one about ‘self-reliance’. “Be informed, make your own decisions, and know where you are going,” it says, explaining in easy, straight-forward terms what needs to be done in order to

take control. I found it surprisingly calming and reassuring to read right before going to sleep.

Of course, my programme also includes a spa treatment. The peacefulness of the secluded property is especially palpable in the spa area, where several treatment rooms, including an outdoor Vichy shower, frame a pool and relaxation area. My massage begins with a lime and salt foot scrub in a bowl of water and flowers. My therapist lets me choose between three different, gorgeous blends of oil and starts the massage with the sound of Tibetan singing bowls. The massage is firm and includes a lot of pushing and stretching, and my body feels absolutely amazing after 60 minutes. Seemingly floating, I am guided to the post-treatment outdoor relaxation area where I am offered tea and the most flavoursome honey I have ever tasted.

REVĪVŌ also takes pride in being 100% plastic free and contributing to local development. It feels like every staff I talk to genuinely loves working there and enjoys what they’re doing. This adds a great sense of happiness and warmth to the place, which is something that is very hard to come by these days. The combination of exercise, mindfulness, healthy food, and spa treatment is a magic concoction that results in one thing: wellbeing. I can only imagine how amazing one must feel after completing one of the longer REVĪVŌ programmes. Even after just 2 days there, I feel much better than when I first arrived, and I’m already longing to go back.

Grand Hyatt, Nusa Dua T

he Grand Hyatt’s facilities are indisputably breathtaking, and; simply put, enormous. In fact, the sheer size means the facilities have been divided into north, east, south and west wings to make things a little easier for guests to navigate. Winding paths lead visitors throughout towering Balinese architecture, temples, shopping areas, amphitheatres, and outdoor seating options, and every corner is dotted with something to do or see including the highly Instagram-worthy giant swing on the beach. With countless restaurants and dining options, children’s areas, pools, even a petting zoo and waterslide, this incredible resort really has been designed to accommodate everyone, and every occasion - even

Barack Obama has enjoyed a stay in one of the resort’s luxury villas.

And then there is Kriya Spa. Kriya is on a whole other level, and could be easily classified as a luxury retreat in itself. It is set away from the main hotel, which is understandable once you see the facilities. The spa’s expansive grounds include 24 spa villas, at 110 square metres each, inclusive of outdoor lounge and shower, spa bath and plunge pool that can be enjoyed after treatments. Modelled after a traditional Balinese water temple, the main area where the reception is based is abundant with fountains, statues, leafy trees, waterlilies, stone lanterns, and mysterious tall wooden doors that lead off to each villa. spaandclinic.com.au | 53

Most memorable at the Grand Hyatt Kriya Spa:

Clients leave Kriya Spa having enjoyed a deeply personalised journey, thanks to the private treatment villas, the hand-selection of fragranced oils before treatment (and scented clay bracelet afterwards) and the music menu allowing guests to choose which soothing sounds resonate with their spirits the most. This made for a truly touching and nurturing experience.

Balinese Massage I slip into a soft Balinese robe and disposable underwear so that my foot ritual can begin, where I dip my feet into a large hand carved timber basin. My therapist scatters a rock salt soak into the water, and I am invited to smell a small sample of it set aside on the table.

I am given a choice of 3 essential oil scents to feature during the massage, which are applied to my skin in order to properly sample and choose a fragrance. From a sweet citrus blend, a christmassy spice blend and a floral jasmine I choose the latter. I’m also given a music menu with three different styles to choose from.

While my foot ritual is being completed, I am also invited to engage with a contraption on a nearby table, which my therapist tells me is called a trataka meditation candle, a traditional yogic technique designed to improve eyesight, clarity, concentration, and focus on one’s ‘inner flame’. This, as we find out later from Spa Director Dr Sanjay Khanzode, is one of the many traditional Balinese customs, rituals and mementos that make Kriya Spa so unique, enhancing each treatment and creating more meaningful experiences for guests.

I lie face down and the massage begins. Movements are firm and flowing, utilising lymphatic drainage techniques and lots of elbows and forearms. Again, my therapist kneels above me on the bed to apply evenly dispersed and firm pressure with the help of gravity. Almost every inch is covered, including stomach, fingertips and toes, and a nice firm scalp massage.

For the end of the treatment, my therapists asks me to take three deep breaths, and upon each one, a small jingling chime passes over my head from one side to the next – yet another incredible authentic Balinese touch. The cherry on top is a clay bead bracelet tied to my wrist, to which several drops of my chosen oil are applied so I can continue to inhale blissful jasmine throughout the afternoon. I am then asked to change before being escorted across the spa to the lounge area, where outdoor reclined lounges, ginger and spice tea with honey and coconut cookies await me.

Crown Chakra Scalp Therapy Walking into the large Kriya spa villas where the treatments are performed is an experience in itself as they could easily pass as luxury accommodation and almost seem too good to only enjoy for a couple 54 | SPA+CLINIC

of hours. The temperature is perfect, as is the volume of the music, and after my foot ritual, I lie face down and take 3 deep breaths, inhaling the scent of my chosen oil a spicy blend of clove, vanilla, and star anise.

My treatment starts with a firm but controlled back, neck, and shoulder massage which has my therapist climbing onto the treatment bed to apply pressure more evenly. She then continues to soak my hair and scalp in oil and starts a very thorough scalp massage, which seems to move every muscle on my head, my ears, and neck. The stroking, light pulling, and tugging puts me in a daze and I almost feel like I am in some sort of meditative state, that is until my therapist starts using a soft tool to tap it all over my head with quite a bit of pressure, delivering a weird vibrating sensation.

My treatment ends with a face massage and chiming sounds around my head to signify the end of the Crown Chakra. With my hair and upper body full of oil, I am guided to the outdoor shower where a fresh towel, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash await me.

Showering the oil off in the shade of palm trees and feeling the warm breeze on my skin, I can’t think of a better way to end this treatment, but indeed there is: my therapist presents me with a clay bracelet scented with the spicy oil I chose earlier - a simple but meaningful memento I carry with me for the rest of the day.

wellness

Bulgari Resort, Uluwatu I

t’s hard to anticipate just how opulent the Bulgari Resort Bali is as you proceed through the large gated entry and arrive at the base on a large stone set of stairs, but as you arrive at the top of those stairs, a breathtaking view of flowering trees, private villas and the Indian ocean bursts into view. A buggy car leads us downhill on a steep winding path through a lush jungle-like garden, past the gift shop and restaurant (where visitors experience the most grand of dining experiences looking out over the sea) and arrives at the pool area.

Spa goers are encouraged to enjoy the fully serviced, incredibly luxe infinity pool, which if observed from the right angle, looks like it spills right off into the ocean itself. Plush poolside cabanas with sheer curtains line one side of the pool while bright pink bougainvillea and frangipanis decorate another. There are even two semi-private spas tucked around a corner that can make one feel as though they’re bathing on the edge of the world. The experience is a truly breathtaking one.

When it’s time to hit the spa, we enter by way of another buggy and discover a beautiful stone and intricately carved timber reception space that is almost temple-like in its feel. Our shoes are swapped out for slippers during consultation forms before we make our way down some more stone stairs and into a large indoor-outdoor posttreatment area. It is a private retreat in itself, with grassy lawn and a linen hammock on one side, and in the centre, wooden decking

Most memorable at Bulgari Resort:

The standout at the Bulgari spa would of course have to be the spectacular facilities themselves. The resort capitalises on its magnificent location, and the quality of the service we received was matched equally by the incredibly breathtaking views over the ocean from every vantage point – which remained the star feature during treatments behind floor-toceiling glass, poolside, and lounging by sunset.

suspended over water with lounge chairs that guests can recline on and, you guessed it, gaze out over the ocean.

We leave our slippers at the door and make our way to the dressing room, where we slip into a Bulgari kimono and are then shown to a glass ocean-view room, complete with two pedicure chairs and a jacuzzi, for our pre-treatment foot ritual. Verbal skin consultations are then conducted during the short foot and leg massage that follows, where we have our signature Biologique Recherche facials explained to us. Once complete, we are shown to another glass ocean-view room, housing twin beds dressed with sarongs in the Bulgari Spa’s signature colour: purple.

My therapist conducts the standard comfort checks, including whether l would like her to explain the steps during the facial or just relax in silence. The following 90-minute facial starts with a skin analysis, in which my therapist candidly shares areas of concern that she aims to address. Then commences the indulgent, leisurely-paced treatment - including double cleanse, face mist, chemical exfoliant, and a unique lifting massage experience using firm upward-dragging motions followed by a mask. The mask is applied gently but firmly using hands as opposed to a brush, and then moisturising eye patches are applied to both upper and lower lids. A firm scalp and neck massage is performed, then the mask gently removed and moisturisers and eye cream applied before completing the journey with firm pressures on the legs as bolters are removed.

Once the facials conclude and we change and collect our things, we are led back to the aforementioned relaxation area, where we help ourselves to fruit-infused water and a variety of healthy snacks and nuts. Our therapists deliver some pots of fresh ginger and lemongrass tea with coconut biscuits, which we enjoy peacefully while watching the sun set over the sea. spaandclinic.com.au | 55

A New Age Of Therapy How holistic counselling gives the title ‘Beauty Therapist’ a new literal meaning.

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ny beauty therapist will tell you there are plenty of occasions where they feel they’ve almost taken on the role of actual therapist.

The client-practitioner relationship can be a close and personal one, and even when it’s not, it isn’t uncommon for clients or patients to unload during their visits. As a result, practitioners can often play a large role in their client’s wellbeing.

Victoria Fox Many practitioners already believe that to address external concerns on the skin and body, one must holistically address the underlying causes within. For those that want to take this nurturing and support to the next level, it turns out converting your pseudo-counselling into actual counselling may be easier than you expected.

Victoria Fox, founder of multi award winning Melbourne salon MISS FOX, tells us she has been on this very career journey, having completed a Certificate in Holistic Counselling and now undertaking a Diploma in Holistic Counselling. Her client approach, she tells us, has completely evolved ever since.

Tell us about your Holistic Counselling experience Counselling is a personal growth tool for those interested in enhancing their experience of life. A holistic approach includes working on an emotional, mental, physical and spiritual level, allowing life to transform naturally as part of a ‘whole person’ therapy.

My studies have been completed at The Awakening Group, who have schools in Melbourne and Brisbane. This progressive school has taken mainstream psychology and combined it with the latest in neuroscience, attachment theory, arousal regulation, systemic constellation work, trauma healing techniques and a process of self-enquiry to help address an array of issues, stressful thinking and trauma that a person may carry.

The dynamic and creative techniques, some of which have been developed by The Awakening Group founder, Brenda Sutherland, form a psychobiological approach to counselling that address issues very quickly and often much more effectively than traditional 'talking therapy', or medication.

Brenda Sutherland B.Soc.Sc.(Psych) is a Holistic Counsellor, Trainer and Consultant with her practice grounded in over 30 years’ experience, including Psychology, Art Therapy, Tantra, Kinesiology, 56 | SPA+CLINIC

Family Constellations and The Work of Byron Katie. She has based the school on the belief that each of us has the power within to transform and to live our heart’s desire, and teaches how to take relationships, life, career and love a step further in authenticity, so you can be the person you’ve always dreamed yourself to be.

What drove you to undertake the qualification?

My life has been completely and positively transformed through counselling, mentoring and coaching. It was about 4 years ago that I had a huge inner crisis and breakdown in my sense of self. This was at the height of my entrepreneurial and business journey, and related to a search for meaning beyond material successes. Having directly experienced the power of doing ‘the work’ on myself, I wanted to be able to share this with others.

I’ve always felt a strong drive to make a contribution to the world and its state of consciousness, and am constantly seeking ways I can fulfil this mission. I believe that when people realise their amazing potential and the limitlessness of their personal power, the world becomes a brighter and more beautiful place for all.

Along with my business, yoga, meditation and shamanic training, this counselling qualification is a part of my ‘toolkit’ so that I can support people in their personal and professional evolution. What has come as an added benefit in undertaking this study is the huge transformation in my own self awareness, self confidence, creativity, communication, and compassion for self and others. It is impossible to counsel others without doing the work yourself, so the study itself has been an epic experience in self-mastery and self-love.

How does it tie in with your work and concept at MISS FOX? At MISS FOX, we believe in the power of self-care: how you connect with yourself is how you relate to the world around you. The better that relationship and experience within yourself, the more radiant you are outwardly — and that has a ripple effect on others. We promote holistic and empowering self-care therapies in the form of luxury grooming, spa, skin, health and wellbeing services. All are mindfully selected and combined for radiant beauty on a mind, body and spirit level.

WELLNESS

Holistic counselling naturally ties into our message, and in fact has been part of our menu for some time through our in-house counsellors.

Holistic counselling is slowly gaining more momentum, due to increasing societal focus on wellbeing, more public and private conversations about mental health, and growing awareness that we are more than our bodies, and there is more to life than work and money.

Beauty Therapy, like life, is so much more that what happens outside, and the more MISS FOX can offer to nurture our guest’s inner beauty, emotional and spiritual wellbeing, the better and more beautiful in my opinion.

How do you anticipate this will improve the client journey?

At MISS FOX, our menu is designed to lift and nourish the spirit, the mind, the emotions and the body at the same time. This means that we address the concept of self-care with reference to the whole vision. A holistic approach recognises that the mind, body, spirit and emotions are all intrinsically linked and must be treated as a whole for optimal wellbeing. Nothing occurs in isolation, everything in our life is interconnected. Therefore, one activity in one area of our life will affect all other areas. For example, you might find that after you started journaling daily, you began sleeping better, and when you began sleeping better, your immune system improved, and when this improved, so did your skin. This is the interconnected nature of all things, and this is the power of holistic solutions. Holistic Counselling improves the client journey, because everything improves the client journey.

Do you feel that practitioners are already ‘therapists’ in a way?

If you reflect on your favourite practitioner of beauty, spa or clinical treatments, you will realise it’s not just about how they make you look, it’s about how they make you feel. The very best beauty therapists naturally take a holistic approach, whether they call it that or not. They care about the client on a mental, emotional and soul level, as well as physical.

Whilst we certainly encourage our team at MISS FOX to open themselves this way, we also teach them how to work with clients in a way that is healthy, sustainable and supportive. Our industry naturally attracts wide-hearted, sensitive and empathic practitioners that must learn to practice their own self-care, professional and personal boundaries so they can always serve clients from a space of wholeness and strength.

Would you recommend it to other practitioners?

I would encourage all people to invest in their personal development, whether that be through receiving counselling, attending courses and workshops, reading books, getting a mentor or pursuing further study.

If a health and wellbeing practitioner or Beauty Therapist felt called to study counselling, I could not recommend this course more highly. It is available as a 12 month Certificate qualification or two year Diploma.

It is a unique opportunity and life-changing journey to true healing and awakening, both personally and as a professional. From here we can truly facilitate our clients’ personal transformations, from a deep place of knowing and loving ourselves.

As Holistic Counsellors we work collaboratively with a client, looking to find the right pieces of information that would relieve the client of stressful symptoms and take them to a place of true wellbeing, their true nature. I believe accessing our true nature is where true beauty lies.

Victoria Fox is the Founder and Director of MISS FOX in Melbourne.

Missfox.com.au

Wellness

From Paris to Palm Cove French spas are renowned as the epitome of luxury and results-driven. After training with iconic brands such as Phytomer and Chanel, Isabelle Neil now heads up the award-winning Reef House Spa at Palm Cove in Queensland to share her ‘je-ne-sais-quoi’ with Aussies.

How did you start out in the spa industry?

Following my initial training in Paris, I moved overseas and became involved in the business operations of a Clarins-based day spa. During that time Clarins introduced body treatments to supplement their renowned facials and range of products. This management experience led to other opportunities, both in establishing new spa concepts using my hands-on skills as a therapist, and in the business management experience.

What did you learn during your training in France?

I was trained in France by Clarins, Chanel, Dior, and Phytomer, specialising in intensive therapies such as antiageing, deep relaxation massage and slimming treatments.

How do spas in France differ to spas in Australia?

The better spas in France are often located in areas of rich natural resources - from marine to mountains.

Often they are part of a property that offers health assessments and medical treatments in conjunction with spa treatments and dietary plans.

What made you come to Australia?

As my experience grew in terms of offering better overall outcomes from packages and in incorporating more natural plants and marine based treatments, I was able to take on roles as a trainer in Australia to help develop more in-depth and better results for clients.

How would you describe Reef House?

Reef house is a boutique ‘beach house’ resort, enjoying the tropical weather all year round and providing a 58 | SPA+CLINIC

I’ve adapted the traditional spa experience to focus on relaxation, harmony and a beautiful holistic experience.

haven of tranquillity and calmness for guests needing a break from the clamour and grit of city life.

What are your most popular treatments?

For Reef House Spa, I’ve adapted the traditional spa experience to focus on relaxation, harmony and a beautiful holistic experience. I am a national trainer for Phytomer, and as such I’ve introduced a new style of treatment centred on the beneficial effects of the sea and sea plants at Reef House. We are the only day spa in North Queensland to offer Phytomer treatments and products, which makes them really popular with visitors.

How do you guarantee an excellent customer experience?

The spa team is supported by the hotel front desk which assists guests with bookings, allowing the therapists to really focus on the guest’s wellbeing before, during and after their treatment. We often recommend specific skincare products that extend the benefits of treatments, and our spa offers guests a free shipping service to replenish these between visits. Returning guests of Reef House often check spa availability before confirming their room booking - sign that these treatments are valued by a discerning clientele!

What does a typical day in your job look like?

My mornings start with matching clients to treatments, and then to therapists to ensure our clients always receive the highest quality care.

Interacting with guests in matters of hotel operations continues all day as our management team strives to improve the guest experience and uphold the Reef House luxury hotel standards.

Baby

On Board

How pregnancy has changed the way I practice.

60 | SPA+CLINIC

WELLNESS

F

or most skin therapists and aesthetic practitioners, guiding pregnant clients through a turbulent nine-month skin journey is all part of a day’s work. There are countless changes both therapist and client tend to experience – breakouts and acne, fluctuations in sebum levels, melasma, swelling and fluid retention, just to name a few. But what happens when the shoe is on the other foot?

Of course it’s always easier to relate, emote and communicate with clients once we have experienced their concerns ourselves, but with such a roller coaster ride as pregnancy, we wanted to know how this affected the practice and advice of some of our country’s most exceptional skin experts. We chatted to two mothers-to-be to find out!

Isabella Loneragan - The Dermal Diary

Isabella at her baby shower

How far along in your pregnancy are you?

I’m 33 weeks into my pregnancy (at the time of writing this) – less than two months to go! The pregnancy was a lovely surprise - so as you can imagine it’s been a bit of a whirlwind of experiences for me.

How has your skin changed throughout?

I’ve definitely noticed changes in my skin, in the first trimester I had lower cheek and jawline breakouts, but not just superficial ones, really deep and cystic in feel and appearance. These pimples tend to take a long time to heal and leave a PIP mark (Post inflammatory pigmentation). In my second trimester everything settled, but now that I am in my third trimester they have resurfaced - and I am again dealing with the deeper pimples, but only one on each side of my face – luckily!

I had my baby shower last weekend and I constantly got told that “you are glowing” but that could have had a lot to do with my frame of mind on the day – happiness really reflects in your skin – the happier you are the better your skin looks! Having my dear friend throw me a baby shower was a very happy day for me.

Since I’ve been pregnant my empath skills have been elevated as I’m a lot more in tune with mothers, their skin needs and changes...

How much has your skincare routine changed?

My skin routine hasn’t changed a great deal - I have increased my exfoliating and masking – so using The Dermal Diary Superfruit Reveal followed by The Dermal Diary The Dream Mask twice a week instead of once. I’ve also toned more regularly to combat those breakouts.

What are your favourite products and treatments to use on yourself now?

The Superfruit Reveal and The Dream Mask have become absolute firm pregnancy favourites, but also I’ve increased the strength of my Vitamin C from 10% to 20% in the morning to combat the PIP. I used to use The Dermal Diary c10 and have switched to The Dermal Diary C20E. I avoid Retinol but have used Retinol Palmitate on occasion as have had Isabella’s skincare confirmation through fave, The Dermal Diary research that it’s pregnancy Superfruit Reveal safe, but I probably only use it once a fortnight. I have included a strict supplement range of Zinc Picolinate, and Omega 3s that have been first and foremost for the baby’s development but we recommend incorporating them into your daily skin routine as they are fabulous for skin health, radiance and reduction of inflammation.

Have your experiences changed the way you consult with and treat clients?

My philosophy is always to connect with my clients on an empathetic level, I find that really increases the ability to treat their skin much better than just ticking problem boxes and trying to fix them. However, since I’ve been pregnant my empath skills have been elevated as I’m a lot more in tune with mothers, their skin needs and changes, their stress levels and overall life complications that effectively take their toll on the skin. I never really gave pregnancy much thought before - but the sheer work it takes to carry a child to term and function as a contributing member of society is much more than I ever realised! Pregnant women are my heroes forever! > spaandclinic.com.au | 61

WELLNESS

Kate Jameson – Youth Lab

experience and with my ongoing commitment to my skincare I think I can maintain that ‘glow’. The hardest part has been stopping some of my favourite treatments and products.

How much has your skincare routine changed?

Kate at 16 weeks pregnant with fiancé Jon

How far along in your pregnancy are you?

22 weeks at the time of writing this. I am due on the 17th of April 2020 (my birthday!)

How has your skin changed throughout?

I have noticed quite significant changes to my skin during my pregnancy journey. I didn’t notice much in the first trimester aside from my skin feeling dull and lacklustre due to my morning sickness. I did get a few comments that I looked “grey” which I assumed was not a good thing.

I am lucky to have very healthy, clear skin normally.

I invest in regular treatments and I am strict with my home care so this held me in good stead for pregnancy.

The majority of skin changes has been driven by hormones and I am noticing an increase in hormonal congestion and breakouts along my chin and jawline.

Knowing this is due to my increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone and also some dietary changes (I normally do not eat much dairy and now I am drinking milk in my coffee and tea as well as yoghurt daily, as well as more sugar due to cravings), reassure me a little and I am just going with it.

I am lucky to not have experienced any hormonal pigmentation or melasma. We are coming into summer and I have not had my regular BBL and laser treatments so my natural freckles are becoming more noticeable and a few old sunspots have reappeared.

As I settle into the second trimester I have noticed a nice plumping of my skin and am now getting those ‘pregnancy glow’ comments from friends, family and patients. I am retaining more moisture and my skin is pinker thanks to the increased blood flow through my body.

Overall despite a few negative setbacks with my breakouts, pregnancy skin is certainly a positive 62 | SPA+CLINIC

My consultation and treatment planning for my patients has not changed but this journey has certainly given me a new perspective...

My skincare routine often changes however the most noticeable change has been my breakup with my vitamin A. I was using PCA Intensive Brightening Treatment with 0.05% retinol which was really helping lighten my pigment and sun damage, and I was loving the results. Stopping this has contributed to some of my breakouts as well as pigment coming back.

Otherwise I am continuing as normal. I am a little more vigilant on what I am using and why. Before pregnancy my skin was in good condition and now I am actively managing a few things such as the congestion and pigment. I have started using more AHAs to exfoliate when I am congested (Lactic acid is my preferred as I cannot use Salicylic acid) as well as implementing non-hydroquinone tyrosinase inhibitors to prevent further pigmentation over summer. My current product of choice is Ultra MD Ultimate Brightening Serum as well as a 6% Niacinamide and PCA C and E Advanced for my Vitamin C and antioxidant boost. I would not normally be using all of these products regularly but now they form part of my daily routine.

What are your favourite products and treatments to use on yourself now?

There are certain products that must be avoided in pregnancy such as any form of Retinol due to the risk of malformations in the foetus which has been demonstrated with oral Isoretinoin. Although the risk is small, these topical formulations have not been studied in pregnant women so we cannot guarantee safety, so best to avoid.

The other product that must be avoided is Salicylic acid in high concentrations.

My favourite products I am using currently are my Vitamin C which is packed with antioxidants, assists with my pigmentation and helps to deliver a firming effect. My favourite product Kate’s skincare is PCA Skin C and E Advanced. I fave, PCA Skin C and E Advanced am also using a lot of Hyaluronic Acid and Niacinamide to maintain my skin’s barrier and hydration levels. My favourite products for this are PCA Hyaluronic Acid Boosting Serum and PCA Vitamin B3 Brightening serum.

Another little secret product I love is PCA Ex-Linea Smoothing Serum which is packed with peptides working to soften fine lines and wrinkles. It is my replacement for my anti-wrinkle injections while I am pregnant and breastfeeding.

Director of Pregnancy Massage Australia, Catherine McInerney, explains why your spa should offer pre-natal services Pregnant clients are clients for life! Supporting women during pregnancy creates a unique connection. This becomes a shared journey which blossoms from pregnancy to beyond. Women understand the need for nurturing and wellbeing during pregnancy, and will seek a therapist that shows confidence, knowledge and empathy. They will also look for healthier lifestyle options, such as change in diet, organic food, prenatal exercise – they will have an overall healthier outlook. Why? Because they know what they do influences their growing baby. Our specialised training will expand your spa services to cater to the varying needs of your pregnant clients, and your day spa will be recognised for having expert therapists who are confident to support their mothersto-be. You will enjoy the expansion of your spa services to meet the varying stages of pregnancy from first trimester to the fourth trimester!

Remember, you are treating not one person – but two or more! Acquiring the skills to meet the pregnancy market instils in therapists a greater sense of worth. They also are acknowledged by the prenatal clients with a greater sense of appreciation, connection and trust. Acquiring these specialised skills in prenatal massage will give therapists a unique area to be recognised for their skills, and in turn, a greater satisfaction in their work and personal growth and development. With the growing number of births in Australia, a well-trained pregnancy day spa can embrace this blooming market by adding a unique list of prenatal treatments to their spa menu.

Continuous client care throughout pregnancy and beyond.

pregnancymassageaustralia.com.au

I have been having regular treatments in my clinic, Youth Lab. Primarily to help manage the increased congestion and breakouts I was having, but to also maintain my skin and continue with my positive ageing regime. I cannot have any laser, IPL or radiofrequency-based treatments such as BBL or our Halo laser as these are not recommended in pregnancy and I am also avoiding all injectables such as anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. Unfortunately there have been no clinical studies due to ethical considerations into the safety of injectables treatments during pregnancy and when breastfeeding. A physician will not treat a pregnant woman so I will certainly not treat myself.

I thought I would miss my dermal fillers a lot more but with my weight gain and increased blood flow I have noticed a nice facial fullness and feel I look better and more youthful than before I was pregnant as I was quite thin and this showed in my face!

My go to in-clinic treatments currently are most definitely peels. We have such a wide variety so I am letting my therapists go mad on my skin. I love a nice mandelic acid peel and enzyme peels, and in a few weeks will be trying the Cosmedix Deep Sea peel for a non-chemical resurfacing (which will target my pigmentation and skin texture). Other pregnancy safe treatments I plan on having are some light skin needling, Hydrafacials

(skipping the salicylic acid step) and regular Healite LED treatments.

Have your experiences changed the way you consult with and treat clients?

Absolutely. I can sometimes seem a bit unrelatable to my patients, often getting comments such as “but your skin is perfect”.

I invest heavily in my skincare and treatments and have done since my early 20s so it is no wonder I have good skin in my 30s. However I am now facing a few little skin battles of my own and can see and feel how my patients do. I feel self-conscious with the breakouts and frustrated when results don’t work instantly, despite knowing better.

A woman’s body is incredible and even more so in pregnancy. The do’s and the don’ts while pregnant can be a little overwhelming, particularly when it comes to your skincare regime and what treatments to have. My consultation and treatment planning for my patients has not changed but this journey has certainly given me a new perspective and I now feel I am more relatable to many of my patients. As a Cosmetic Physician who specialises in injectables and laser, and gets regular treatments herself, not having these as an option currently means I am exploring other treatment modalities and pushing the boundaries on these to deliver better results.

At Pregnancy Massage Australia® we believe a pregnant client is a client for life, not just while they are pregnant.

Our Certificate of Pregnancy Massage is a specialist course that covers appropriate massage techniques and styles of application suitable for each trimester.

Give your spa, salon or clinic therapists the opportunity to develop their skills, so you can offer personalised therapeutic massage to your pregnant clients during their pregnancy and beyond.

For more information or to enrol

1300 773 462

pregnancymassageaustralia.com.au

Wellness Tourism, Then And Now Wellness Tourism is on the rise with more and more hotels and resorts expanding their wellness offerings. Founder of Spa Wellness Travel, Karen Goudge, shares her perspective on how this part of the industry has evolved.

I

t is amazing how tourism has morphed wellness into a billion dollar spa that was rapidly being constructed within. If it already was, guests commodity of recent years, fuelled by access to the internet and were lapping up the treatments and service being offered. Spa tourism the varying platforms for consumers to view, as well as the range in Australia was slow but surely gaining momentum. of experiences and knowledge people can engage in to enhance and With the spa experience being an attractive and desirable maintain their wellbeing. Wellness tourism encompasses a broad one and the benefits becoming more exposed via media and the spectrum, which I believe has grown from the treatments, therapies internet, so did the number of spa hotels, spa retreats, spa resorts and benefits of the spa industry. and spa wellness retreats, along with the activities being offered and When I first encroached upon the spa industry, it was 2001. I was the signature design of varying treatments. What people in other researching resort destinations that were fitting for my travel agency countries had been enjoying for decades and hundreds of years and that accommodated interests within my coastal lifestyle involving was now becoming more understood and accessible within the spa a weekly yoga practice and daily juicing. The first resort I stumbled experience. Think of people travelling to India to find enlightenment across was Nihiwatu Resort in Sumba, which to date has gone through meditation, yoga and cuisine within the ashrama, of social through a change of ownership and development to bathing in natural springs within Europe and Japan, now be Nihi Sumba. Nihiwatu Resort back then Cleopatra soaking in a milk bath, steam saunas in offered a surf break that was known as Scandinavia and the use of natural herbs, clays Occy’s left, massages, yoga, beach horse and muds for body and facial treatments The definition of riding and unique cultural experiences were all being experienced. Of course, ‘Wellness Tourism’ – perfect. I soon discovered other there are many other wellness cultural The Global Wellness Institute: destination spas, went “wow” and experiences that have been introduced Travel associated with the pursuit of maintaining set up spa travel. and combined within the spa or enhancing one’s personal wellbeing.

Closer to home, what was environment. The mind-body-spirit Wikipedia: Travel for the purpose of promoting en vogue in Australia at the time benefit was being felt. health and wellbeing through physical, psychological was Camp Eden in the Gold Medi tourism rose to the or spiritual activities.

Coast hinterland. Friends had forefront for a while, where hospitals Wellness Tourism Association: A specific division visited this health retreat needing predominately in Asia were offering of the global tourism industry that is defined by time to rejuvenate or boost their medical and dental procedures the common goal of marketing natural assets confidence due to the imbalance and then the patient would rest and and activities primarily focused on serving the of work-life pressures. Today Camp convalesce at an affiliated hotel or wellness-minded consumer and Eden is still flourishing and is named resort, but it is the ‘wellness tourism’ that those who want to be.

Eden Health Retreat. I also began to has blossomed to the forefront embracing a discover that hotels had gymnasiums within higher demand so individuals may enhance their them that were sitting idle and it was the day wellbeing and in turn happiness.

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Wellness

Spa travel became Spa Wellness Travel in 2015 after I had taken a couple of years’ downtime to deal with treatments for a second diagnosis of breast cancer. Coming back, I noted there were changes within my working environment. My values, philosophy and beliefs for customer service and what I was providing with Spa Wellness Travel was still the same, but now there were more options available for consumers to take a holiday and enhance their wellbeing.

With the increase of people taking the desired or needed holiday for their wellbeing, having options is greatly appreciated. In Australia we now have many morel luxury spa resorts and spa wellness retreats compared to 2001, with Hayman Island by InterContinental being the latest spa resort to re-open after a $125 million redevelopment and that of course includes a spa, yoga, gym, hikes and water activities.

Then there are other stunning and smaller spa resorts located in beautiful natural locations within Tasmania, Kangaroo Island and Lord Howe Island which make for a perfect place to relax and unwind.

The cost of staying away for several nights of course is going to vary depending on the standard of accommodation and inclusions. At a spa resort we offer guests a four night stay, with daily breakfast and a pre-booked spa treatment. Staying at a spa resort, guests choose what they wish to do with their time; laze by the pool, go shopping, explore a local market, visit the gym, dine at different restaurants or sip cocktails; the choice is theirs. Whilst at a spa wellness retreat a guest’s stay can range from four to thirty nights within inclusions of wholesome meals that be raw, vegetarian, vegan or broths and juices.

The activities such as yoga, meditation, Muay thai, watsu, boxing, gym sessions or the like, plus spa treatments and wellness consultations will be structured within the day depending on the program chosen by the client. These inclusions come within a purposely designed program that range from a detox, stress management, yoga, pilates, fitness, sleep well, women’s health, men’s health, ayurvedic etc.

Whether staying in a spa resort or spa wellness retreat the guest will be able to surrender and trust the therapist, practitioner, nurse or whoever may be delivering the treatment, therapy or class which is liberating and empowering, as it is the guest wanting to embrace a change within.

The travel and tourism industry is not an easy one, it has many disruptors such as natural disasters, currency fluctuations, human conflict or attacks and unforeseen cancellations can affect a client’s holiday. As a travel operator besides discussing advice and options, coordinating itineraries, making reservations and payments, we are also there to assist clients in these times.

From now and into the future the wellbeing of an individual will be paramount and exciting, and as variations to practices, activities, spa treatments, cultural experiences and accommodation locations come to the forefront, we will continue to evolve as curious human beings on the pursuit of wellness.

Karen Goudge created Spa Wellness Travel from a passion and respect for travel, culture and tradition, combined with an understanding of the benefits that touch can bring. SpaWellnessTravel.com.au

From authentic Foot Baths to memorable Sauna Experiences...

Spa Vision are here to look after all your Spa & Wellness needs. +61 (0) 418 951 353 | www.spavision.com

BRAND PA R T N E R S :

Trust Your Gut!

Nutritionist Fiona Tuck explains the link between gut and healthy skin and why not all supplements are created equal.

T

he skin is the largest organ of the body and one of the first places to show signs of nutrient depletion and internal imbalances. If we are not getting enough nutrients via the diet or if we are not absorbing nutrients well this may reflect on the skin. Redness, dilated capillaries, purple markings on the skin and even some types of pigmentation can all be signs of possible nutrient depletion.

The gut can also communicate with our skin and vice versa, this interplay is known as the skin-gut axis. A healthy gut helps keep pathogens, infections and inflammation at bay. You could say that our gut and our skin play similar roles, both are colonised by microorganisms designed to communicate with immune cells and inflammatory mediators to protect us from pathogens.

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How to tell if there is an underlying gut issue There are a number of sources of inflammation, including senescent cells, cellular debris, and increased pathogenic microbial burden. This may show in the skin in a multitude of ways such as skin sensitivity, redness, breakouts and even premature ageing. Inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, rosacea and even autoimmune conditions such as psoriasis can be significantly improved by supporting the health of the gut. Looking after the health of the gut by feeding it the right nutrients is as important as wearing daily SPF. At Vita-Sol we have an online stockist education programme that includes information on the importance of nutrigenomics, gut and liver health, nutrition

and how to recognise signs of internal imbalance when it comes to skin health.

We also have a private fb group where we conduct regular fb live education sessions to keep therapists updated on the latest research whilst at the same time ensuring that our therapists work within their scope of practice.

Why prebiotics may be more beneficial than probiotics Probiotics are live bacteria found in probiotic supplements and some foods such as kefir and sauerkraut. Contrary to popular belief, probiotics rarely colonise in the gut, but rather they interact with resident microbes on their journey through the gut. As they pass through the gut, they interact with gut cells, immune cells and food substances,

Wellness

exerting their benefits. Research has shown that some specific probiotics may support digestive health and immune function, including reducing antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, improving resilience to infections and improving digestion of lactose. Other benefits include reducing eczema, as well as necrotising enterocolitis. Evidence is lacking however to support the use of daily probiotic supplementation for general health and well-being although including fermented foods in the diet is thought to be beneficial.

There are over a 1000 different species of microbes that inhabit the gut and only a few exist as probiotic supplements. One third of our gut microbiota is common to most people while two thirds are specific to each of us. This means the gut microbiota is unique to each one of us much like a thumb print. We therefore all have differing needs when it comes to what probiotics may be beneficial. Most probiotics (except for a select group) are likely to degrade before they reach the intestines, an environment that supports their growth.

Most commonly produced probiotics are so fragile that approximately 90% of the bacteria will die before reaching the consumer. Also depending on the strain used some will be destroyed in the acidity environment of the intestinal tract. This is why high dose probiotic supplements or capsules are recommended by professionals to ensure that the probiotics that do survive are in high enough amounts to benefit the host.

In a review by the Scientific Journal Immunology and Cell Biology, commonly used probiotic bacteria, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum, longum, and Saccharomyces boulardii were found to be too fragile to survive the rigours of the manufacturing process, heat and the acidity of the intestinal tract. When it comes to probiotics, for best results it is best to seek professional advice from a qualified nutritionist. They can recommend a product that contains the strain(s) of bacteria that have demonstrated the best evidence for the health or skin benefit you are seeking.

A prebiotic is a type of dietary fibre, however, not all fibre is prebiotic. To be classified as a prebiotic, the fibre must pass through the GI tract undigested and stimulate the growth or activity of beneficial bacteria in the large intestine. Prebiotics are a relatively new discovery but may be the most important, even more so

that do not contain synthetic vitamins to maximise gut and skin health.

Prebiotic foods: • Garlic, onion, leek, shallots, asparagus • Chickpeas, lentils, soybeans • Nectarines, white peaches, watermelon, grapefruit, dried fruit • Barley, rye bread, couscous, oats • Cashews, pistachios

than probiotics for our general health and well-being. Prebiotic benefits include gut microbiota modulation, improved nutrient absorption, possible protection against colon cancer, improved blood glucose and insulin regulation, protection against intestinal infections and reduced inflammation. The fermentation of the prebiotics by the gut microbiota produce short-chain fatty acids. These short chain fatty acids are required for healthy gut barrier integrity and function, modulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and help reduce inflammation and may also play a role in modulating the immune system all of which have a positive benefit on the health of the skin.

Good sources of prebiotics include inulin, fructo-oligosaccharides (fructans , FOS) and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS).

Including a wide variety of plant based foods in the diet is important for gut microbe diversity which is important for overall gut health. Current research from the world’s largest microbiome study shows that we need to eat at least thirty different plant based foods a week which include fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, nuts and seeds for optimum gut health. At Vita-sol we use all natural prebiotic formulas

Factors that harm the microbiome of the skin: • Over cleansing • Harsh synthetic ingredients – antimicrobials, harsh preservatives, SD alcohol, UV radiation • Chemical peels Upsetting the natural pH of the skin (ideally around pH 4.5 – 5.5)

Why a healthy diet may not be enough Including probiotics in the diet is not enough to restore a healthy gut. Whilst we know that there are benefits from eating probiotic or fermented foods if someone has weakened gut cell integrity or dysbiosis then simply increasing fermented foods will not be enough to restore a healthy gut. Increasing probiotics and fermented foods may actually temporarily worsen gut symptoms and trigger skin flare ups in some inflammatory skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.

For this reason it is important to restore gut integrity first. The gut epithelial cells are really mission control for the gut ecosystem and a healthy and robust gut needs a variety of nutrients to thrive. The following factors can increase gut permeability and may need to be reduced to help restore a healthy gut: Stress, alcohol, processed foods, high intake of saturated animal fat, Gliadin and gluten, hops extract (beer).

Is probiotic skincare beneficial?

When it comes to using actual probiotics in topical skincare there are limitations.

The skin is colonised by microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and mites.

These microorganisms may have a role in communicating with the billions of T cells found in the skin and are part of our defence systems. We know that certain skin conditions such as acne and eczema may have an imbalance of certain bacteria and topical application of probiotics may be beneficial. We know that probiotics are live living microorganisms which are difficult if not impossible to keep alive in a skincare product. The application of topical skincare on the colonisation of these beneficial microorganisms is therefore limited. Probiotic fragments or ‘post’ biotics which are not live bacteria are able to communicate with living microbes to have an anti-inflammatory benefit on the skin and may therefore be beneficial.

Topical application of anti-inflammatory ingredients and prebiotics ingredients that will help the beneficial microbes on the skin thrive may also be beneficial. There is more research that is needed but it is an extremely exciting area. Maintaining the microbiome of the skin is therefore important to keep the skin healthy.

Vita-sol.com spaandclinic.com.au | 67

heading

Must-Have Treatments To

Boost Business Beauty Melbourne’s educators share the top non-surgical cosmetic procedures to offer in your salon in 2020

C

onvenient ‘lunch-time treatments’ are a trend anticipated to continue throughout 2020, and many salons will benefit from meeting the demand for these highly requested, non-invasive treatments. Understanding the nature and risks of such procedures and incorporating them into your salon offerings can boost your portfolio and clientele.

Beauty Melbourne, Victoria’s leading professional beauty event, is returning for another highly-anticipated edition on 28-29 March.

With a new curated education program, Beauty Melbourne will bring together some of Australia’s foremost beauty specialists who will share their expertise in dermal and anti-ageing solutions.

To fuel excitement in the lead up to the show, Beauty Melbourne has picked the brains of Sharni Mancell, owner of The Derm Lab, Claire Crouch, Synergie Skin Education Manager, and Dr Mariusz Gajewski, Cosmetic Physician and Founder of Star Cosmetic Medicine, to discuss the top non-surgical cosmetic procedures to offer in your salon in 2020, and what you can expect to learn from their dedicated Beauty Melbourne education sessions.

Skin needling Skin needling was one of the biggest trends in 2019, and it’s not slowing down this year either.

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“If performed correctly skin needling is an amazing non-surgical face rejuvenation treatment. It can be a great addition to your beauty business and you can make a real change to your clients’ skin,” Sharni says.

Sharni emphasises that before incorporating skin needling into your business, it’s vital to understand the treatment and the impacts it can have, both positive and potentially negative.

“Education is a must, so I highly encourage salon owners to find a reputable company to purchase a device that is recognised by the TGA and/or has the appropriate research, development and clinical data behind it, and who can also provide the correct training and support for both the product and the treatment,” she explains.

Don’t miss Sharni Mancell’s ‘Incorporating Skin Needling into Your Business: Where Do You Start?’ session at Beauty Melbourne for more information.

Cosmetic injectables With more than 33,000 procedures carried out each year, cosmetic injectables have become Australia’s most sought-after non-surgical skincare solution.

Anti-wrinkle injections can be effective ‘lunch-time treatments’ that relax muscles that cause movement lines such as frown lines or ‘crow’s feet’. Dermal fillers on the other hand, create volume or

Aesthetics

structure in the skin or its deeper layers and are ideal for treating a lack of volume and integrity in the cheeks, temples, lips and jawline.

Dr Gajewski notes that consumers are now turning to cosmetic injectables over anti-ageing creams to see best results.

“Topical creams are excellent tools to moisturise, improve skin texture, and prevent photo-ageing when combined with SPF, but there are limits to what they can do. The careful and prudent use of cosmetic injectables by a skilled practitioner can fill some of these shortcomings,” he says.

Claire Crouch echoes this statement, adding that cosmetic injectables are also now being used for early preventative purposes.

“Consumers in their early twenties are investing in a variety of treatments to prevent the signs of ageing before they begin. We shouldn’t think of ageing clients as being 40-50+; a client concerned with ageing can be any age and treatments vary depending on the level of ageing observed on their skin,” she says.

Don’t miss Dr Mariusz Gajewski’s ‘Everything You Need to Know About Anti-Wrinkle and Dermal Filler Tweak-ments’ session at Beauty Melbourne for more information.

Tixel Tixel involves the application of a heated metal plate with pyramidshaped spikes onto the skin, creating small channels which stimulate new collagen production, leading to firmer, smoother and more youthful-looking skin.

Are you achieving the best outcomes for your clinic and clients?

“This is great for treating many skin conditions that are triggered within the lower skin layers such as hyperpigmentation. Not only is there minimal discomfort and downtime but the improvements in the skin are incredible and one can continue to see the skin improve for up to a year post-treatment series. Ageing and uneven skin tone is not only one of the main concerns for today’s clients but can be the most challenging to treat, making this treatment a great option which provides a real visible difference,” Claire says.

Cold plasma therapy Cold plasma technology can be used to break down air particles into active plasma ions on the skin, boosting collagen production to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increase product absorption to encourage actives into the skin, smooth and heal irritated skin and reduce pore size.

“A series of peel treatments and technologies such as cold plasma combined with scientifically proven product formulations can provide better results now than ever before,” says Claire.

Don’t miss Claire Crouch’s ‘’Clear Science Solutions without the Hype: Tackling Ageing and Hyperpigmentation’ session at Beauty Melbourne for key learnings on these skin treatments and more.

Beauty Melbourne takes place 28-29 March 2020 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC). Tickets and more information available at beautymelbourne.com.au

Together we can increase your confidence to achieve superior and quicker results, a higher return on investment for your business, while raising the standard of our industry.

• Understand the science behind your device and it’s various applications • Learn how to effectively combine your existing devices and implement new protocols

Refresh and up-skill staff knowledge in 2020 Book your preferred training dates with our tailored, in house education by contacting the team at TADLI.

info@dermalandlaser.com.au | 0476 880 311

Aesthetics

Is Bakuchiol Really The

New Retinol?

Retinol is king when it comes to anti-ageing properties in skincare, but could bakuchiol be the natural alternative?

The result? Both retinol and bakuchiol showed a significant improvement in wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation. Bakuchiol etinol has been the plethora of new skincare products won the side effects test, with more gold standard in antiincluding bakuchiol come onto the retinol users experiencing scaling and ageing skincare for market, so is it just a buzzy trend irritation. But what do experts think of many years, accelerating skin ingredient or could it be something the seemingly miraculous ingredient? cell turnover and thereby to consider stocking at your spa We asked founder and formulator of helping to smooth fine or clinic? Clinical data is the Hop & Cotton, Ee Ting Ng: lines and even out the answer.

“Both retinol and bakuchiol are skin tone among other In 2018, the clinical considered small molecules. Although benefits. As one of the efficacy and sidethey are not structurally similar, most well-researched effect profiles they induce similar responses ingredients out there, the of bakuchiol in our skin cells that improve Ole Henriksen Glow Cycle™ Retin-ALT Vitamin A derivative is the and retinol the signs of photo-damage Power Serum answer to most people’s were tested (particularly reduction of wrinkles, Biossance Squalane + Phyto-Retinol Serum skin concerns, but there are in a randomised improving elasticity and reducing also some disadvantages of double-blind assessment for pigmentation). This makes bakuchiol an retinol. Using retinol in the morning is not facial photoageing. In a 12-week study exciting alternative to retinol, especially with recommended as it can photo-sensitise published in the ‘International Journal of it being more stable to light and air, as well as skin, and the ingredient is also not safe Cosmetic Science’, 44 patients were having lower potential in causing irritation for pregnant or breastfeeding women. asked to apply either bakuchiol 0·5% commonly associated with retinoids.

Moreover, a lot of people experience cream twice daily or retinol 0·5% However, I am not ready to discard redness or shedding of the skin when they cream daily. A facial photograph retinol for bakuchiol at this stage, first start using retinol or when they use and analytical system was used to as these recent studies carried out too much (depending on the product, obtain and analyse high-resolution on bakuchiol were done so on a usage once every other day is often photographs of patients at 0, 4, small group of participants over recommended). So what if there was an 8 and 12 weeks. Patients also a relatively short period of time.” ingredient with the same anti-ageing effects, completed tolerability assessment Time and more research will tell if but less irritation? Enter, Bakuchiol. questions to review side effects. we will see bakuchiol in professional Bakuchiol is derived from the seeds of During study visits, a boardskincare soon, for now, it seems it is the Psoralea corylifolia or babchi plant, and certified dermatologist, blinded to reserved for high end retail brands, is a well-known ingredient in Ayurveda and study group assignments, graded such as Biossance, Ole Henriksen, BYBI Beauty Traditional Chinese Medicine. 2019 saw a pigmentation and redness. and BYBI. Bakuchiol Booster

R

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Good skin starts from within...

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All natural, prebiotic and sprouted plant based ingredients.

No synthetic vitamins, fillers or artificial additives.

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© 2020. Cynosure, Inc. All rights reserved. Cynosure and StimSure are registered trademarks of Cynosure, Inc.

TECHNOLOGY

Shed Some

Light

The need-to-knows of some of the industry’s most popular LED devices.

A

s with most facets of the beauty and medi-aesthetics landscape, the market is saturated with options when it comes to LEDs. Particularly when these devices are all designed to meet different needs, it can prove a bit of a lengthy process sifting through

them all to choose which is right for your spa or clinic, and for your clientele.

For this reason, we’ve decided to line up a few side by side – some old favourites and some new releases, to aid you in the search for your perfect light match.

Device: Omnilux Distributor: True Solutions Wavelength/s: Plus 830 nm, Revive 633nm, Blue 415nm Indications: Acne, photodamage, non-melanoma skin-cancer, skin rejuvenation, vitiligo, wound healing post-elective surgery.

“Honestly, every skin needs Omnilux! From personal experience I love Omnilux for acne and any skins that need calming. I used to suffer from cystic acne and it always gave me so much relief. Being non-invasive and working under the skin to repair, hydrate and heal it works wonders without even using any products. At No.13 we mostly use it for anyone that wants anti-ageing and glowing skin - and who doesn’t want that! Paired with a customised facial it gives an even better result.” – Tilly Barnett, Owner & Founder of No.13 The Beauty Avenue, Potts Point NSW

Device: Aduro Pro Salon LED Mask Distributor: Aduro Australia Wavelength/s: Orange 525+630nm, Yellow 533+630nm, Green 520nm, Red 630nm, Purple 470+630nm, Blue 470nm, Cyan 470+525nm, Infrared 850nm Indications: Periorbital wrinkles, pigmentation, enlarged pores, dullness, and ideal for combination treatments including anti-wrinkle injections and needling, acne, inflammation, swelling, rosacea. Dual modalities - also facilitates cosmetic teeth whitening.

Device: LightStim ProPanel Blue Distributor: BLC Wavelength/s: Red 630nm, Blue 415 Indications: Mild to moderate acne, breakouts, acne-causing bacteria. Also available as a hand-held device.

“We love LightStim! Not only is it an effective express treatment on its own, it’s a must have for my clients after skin needling or peels as it takes away redness and speeds up recovery time.” – Karen Shirley, RN, Founder & Director of The Skin Clinicians, Hawthorne QLD

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“As a celebrity makeup artist and facialist, providing and maintaining fresh, healthy skin is a top priority. To prep Renée Zellweger and Jane Levy for the Golden Globes I chose to use Pro Mask, to heal, hydrate and plump skin leaving a fresh, dewy glow for the Red Carpet. The system allows me to target four different facial areas - red and near infrared as a skin booster on the face, yellow on the eyes to reduce puffiness, cyan on the nose and T-zone to target p-acne bacteria, calm skin and reduce pore size and broken capillaries, and blue on the mouth and chin to target hormonal breakouts.” – Dana Michelle Hamel, Facialist & Makeup Artist, Hollywood, LA, USA

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technology

Device: Healite II Distributor: Lutronic – Advanced Cosmeceuticals Wavelength/s: 830/590 nm, 633 nm, 415 nm Indications: Wound healing, pain relief, hair regrowth, skin rejuvenation, bone rejuvenation, active acne.

“Healite ll is THE most versatile and most used machine in my office. As a specialist plastic surgeon, all my patients from face lift to liposuction procedures receive frequent Healite treatment as part of their postoperative treatment regimes. My non-surgical patients love the beneficial therapeutic effect Healite delivers as part of their acne and skin reconditioning programs.” – Steven Liew, Founder & Medical Director of Shape Clinic, Sydney NSW

Device: Dermalux Tri Wave MD Distributor: Professional Beauty Solutions Wavelength/s: Blue 415nm, Red 633nm, Near Infrared 830nm Indications: Dullness, loss of collagen and elastin, acne and breakouts, redness and inflammation.

“The Dermalux is a staple across all of our pathways, however it does most of the heavy lifting with our sensitised skins and active acne. Our favourite setting is the 830nm and the 633nm wavelengths simultaneously. It stimulates blood flow which provides key nutrients and oxygen to the cells, and also stimulates the mitochondria which is crucial to the skin repair pathway. Dermalux always exceeds the expectations we place on it.” – Jazmin Camilleri Seen Skin Clinic, Melbourne VIC

Device: MediLUX Distributor: The Global Beauty Group Wavelength/s: Blue 415nm, Green 520nm, Yellow 590nm, Red 633nm, Near Infrared 830nm Indications: Acne-causing bacteria, excess sebaceous activity, pigmentation, dehydration, rosacea and post-laser inflammation, dullness, poor circulation and/or lymph flow, cellular regeneration, wound healing, skin rejuvenation.

“At Self Centred Medi Spa we are amazed over and over again with the MediLUX’s ability to normalise barrier impaired and fragile skins. It energises the mitochondria and is honestly great for all skin types with the ability to switch between 5 different wavelengths.” – Kerree Kerr, Self Centred Medi Spa, Melbourne VIC

Device: SmartLux Distributor: Cryomed Wavelength/s: Blue 420nm, Yellow 590nm, Red 635nm, Infrared 830nm Indications: Acne, bruises and swelling, post-surgery, dullness, wound healing, pain relief.

“We love our SmartLux, which is the most used piece of equipment in our clinic. We use it for a variety of indications, general skin rejuvenation, post laser to accelerate recovery and PDT. Patients love it as well. It’s user friendly with a good range of treatment parameters.” – Dr. Peter Morley, Founder & Medical Director of Emetheni Clinic, Burleigh Heads QLD

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Regardless of body or skin type, fat cells are permanently destroyed in as little as one comfortable 15-minute treatment.

To learn more about truSculpt® iD visit cutera.com.au or contact aumarketing@cutera.com

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Models; Not actual patients. © 2019 Cutera, Inc. All rights reserved. AP002899 rA

TECHNOLOGY

Meet The Faces Behind The Brands Behind the well-known device companies in Australia are some of the most motivated and knowledgable sales reps. We picked their brains to get to know them better.

Name: Kylie Rowe

a Cynosure product ambassador, I have the privilege to work with existing and new client businesses and be part of their business growth. I love meeting new people both clients and industry colleagues. My job gives me the opportunity to further my career in education, to travel and to share knowledge with my clients and peers.

Role: Cynosure Business Account Manager – VIC

What aspect of your job working for Cynosure do you enjoy most?

I am now celebrating 8 years at Cynosure, and there are so many aspects of my job that I absolutely love. Cynosure provide the most superior and innovative technology solutions for our customers. It is fantastic to work with a company that manufacture and supply not only skin and face technology but also body technology options whilst continuing to be innovative. I am so grateful for the opportunity to work with all my amazing clients whom I continually learn from. It is my clients that inspire me to provide the most up to date and latest industry knowledge. As

What innovation are you most excited about for 2020?

Cynosure’s new body contouring device, StimSure

I am so excited on the arrival of the next gen technology - StimSure! It is a non-invasive muscle stimulation technology that builds and defines your muscles. The treatment is comfortable, and results are fantastic. A bonus for the clinic operator is that the StimSure is a hands-free treatment. The demand for StimSure has been astounding. Watch this space in 2020, there are lots more new and exciting devices coming, which is sensational and why I love working with Cynosure so much.

Name: Blake Williams Role: Sciton Area Sales Manager – NSW ACT WA

What aspect of your job working for Sciton do you enjoy most?

Sciton’s culture has completely surpassed my expectations; the continued efforts to ensure high performance for our technology and the business partnerships we create rate of equal importance, which is something I value very much.

What innovation are you most excited about for 2020?

With the latest release of some exciting new technologies launched at the end of 2019, Sciton’s ClearSilk and ClearV are still something I am excited about. That said, we are bringing an all new device to the market this year. All I can say at this stage is, keep an eye out for the Sciton Millijoule!

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Sciton’s light and laser platform, Joule

...Sciton’s ClearSilk and ClearV are still something I am excited about.

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SUBSCRIPTION ACQUISITION PLAN Venus Concept is a leader in the global medical aesthetic market, pairing best-in-class technology with the first and only true subscription model in the industry. Our goal is to help both new and established practices succeed in this growing industry.

In partnering with Venus Concept, aesthetic professionals worldwide gain access to never-before-seen business features such as the most comprehensive warranty program, unmatched marketing support, continuous clinical education and more.

- THREE YEAR WARRANTY - IN HOUSE FINANCE - INTEREST FREE - 36 MONTH TERMS - CLINICAL EDUCATION - MARKETING SUPPORT - EASY UPGRADE PATH

COST-EFFECTIVE HAIR REMOVAL TABLETOP SOLUTION

✔ ADVANCED LASER TECHNOLOGY ✔ VERSATILE, EASY-TO-USE SYSTEM ✔ ULTRA-FAST TREATMENTS ✔ COMFORTABLE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES ✔ HIGHLY COST-EFFECTIVE SYSTEM

Venus Epileve is the cost-effective laser device that will generate a positive ROI to aesthetic practices offering hair removal. Its unique technological features make it one of the easiest to use laser hair removal devices in the industry. Treatments are very comfortable, ultra-fast and highly efficacious for all skin types.

VENUS CONCEPT AUSTRALIA www.venusconcept.com info.au@venusconcept.com +61 416 022 096

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With improved comfort, fewer treatments required and fewer potential side effects, PicoWay is innovating rejuvenation in Asian skin types.

Achieve outstanding results for your patients – and your practice –

broad range of spot sizes for ultimate treatment customisation.

with Candela’s clinically-proven advanced laser, PicoWay.

The 750ps pulse of other picosecond devices does not have the high

‘PicoWay is a masterpiece of engineering,’ says Sydney plastic

peak power of PicoWay, and therefore delivers a more photothermal

surgeon Dr Steven Liew from Shape Clinic.

Leading the way in picosecond technology, the PicoWay has a unique proprietary mode of action, with high peak power and short pulse durations for demonstrated performance, safety and comfort.

The complete picosecond system transforms skin from the inside, out, thanks to full-beam and fractional capabilities, offering three wavelengths to treat a variety of pigmented lesions on all skin tones and types, as well as tattoos of varying colours and types.

effect over a longer period of time. PicoWay’s picosecond pulses minimise risk of side effects in Asian complexions such as hypopigmentation and scarring that can often occur with slower, nanosecond pulse lasers.2,3 ‘PicoWay utilises a cutting-edge concept with the photoacoustic effect, producing subsurface ablation without heat or epidermal trauma to achieve healthy, glowing skin with minimal downtime,’ says Dr Liew.

‘It is based on the latest picosecond technology capitalising on the

Introducing the Resolve Fractional Handpiece

predominant effect of photoacoustic over the photothermal effect.

PicoWay’s unique Resolve Fractional handpiece is the first and only

Combined with the availability of multiple wavelengths, PicoWay is

aesthetic laser with revolutionary holographic fractional technology,

truly versatile and completely customisable for all skin types, offering

allowing a wider range of results for pigmentation and photo-ageing,

a fast and effective treatment with relatively low to no downtime,

with improved ease of practitioner use.

minimal discomfort, high patient satisfaction, and with results that can be noticed even after a single treatment.’

Practice Benefits Build patient volume and differentiate your practice. With four FDAcleared indications, the PicoWay system helps you attract a wide range of patients. And with consumers seeking effective aesthetic treatments with minimal downtime,1 PicoWay lasers can help set

An easy add-on to PicoWay, with dual wavelengths (1064nm and 532nm), PicoWay’s Resolve is able to address both deep and shallow lesions, while triggering skin rejuvenation and targeting photo-ageing. The complementary wavelengths and highly adjustable spot size enables it to effectively treat pigmentation and sun damage, as well as low-contrast pigmentation and melasma, both of which have been difficult to treat in the past.

your practice apart.

Impressive Results, Time And Time Again

Minimise risk in Asian skin types. The ultra-short picosecond laser

Your patients will love you for using the PicoWay system. Delivering

pulses allow effective treatment with minimal risk of side effects,

improvements in wrinkle severity, reduction in acne scarring and

while the high peak power of the PicoWay’s 450ps pulse delivers

clearance of benign pigmented lesions and tattoos, PicoWay can

4.5 times more photoacoustic effect than a 750ps pulse, enabling a

achieve outstanding results for your patients - and your practice.

References. 1. American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine website. Available at: https://www.aaamed.org/aesthetic_med.php. 2. Adatto MA, et al. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2017;52:113-123. 3. Wang CC, et al. J Am Acad Dermatol.

2006;54(5):804-810.

Visit us at candelamedical.com.au or call 1300 (CANDELA) 226 335

Top 5 reasons to choose PicoWay Rest easy Thanks to ultrashort, true picosecond pulses, PicoWay is safer than other market alternatives – there is less heat produced and minimised risk of burning.

Patient-endorsed Candela takes pride in the practice-based results attesting to patient satisfaction.

User-friendly The user-friendly Resolve Fractional handpiece allows for ease of movement and control.

The solution for busy practitioners PicoWay treatments require only short appointments – perfect for time-poor patients and practitioners.

Tailored With PicoWay, you can treat a wider range of skin types than most other modalities in its category.

Solar Lentigines

Photos: Lee Sung Ju M.D.

“The Resolve holographic beam-splitter delivers consistent peak power across the entire fractional array with precision, no hotspots and increased safety. Different wavelengths are able to target different depths and pigment type in different Fitzpatrick skin types, with minimal risks of burns and very low to no downtime. This makes it great for Asian and darker skin types.”

Dr Steven Liew Shape Clinic Sydney MB BS (SYD), FRACS | Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Before Melasma

After* Photos: Cheng Kuo-Liang, M.D.

Before Nevus of Zygomaticus

After* Photos: Cheng Kuo-Liang, M.D.

Before

After*

*Results may vary

© 2020 Candela Corporation. This material contains registered and unregistered trademarks, trade-names, service marks and brand names of Candela Corporation and its affiliates. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. All rights reserved.

“The PicoWay laser has an extremely fast pulse duration and is a true picosecond laser. As such, it produces very little heat or thermal damage, which is key to avoiding problems such as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation or triggering recurrence of melasma in higher Fitzpatrick skin types quite typical of Asian skin. Asian skin types also tend to have a more pronounced collagen stimulating response in my clinical experience, making it ideal for addressing fine lines, textural refinement and pigmentation problems.”

Dr Danae Lim Shape Clinic Sydney MB BS (SYD) | Cosmetic Physician

Cutera University Clinical Forum

March 13–15, 2020 GOLD COAST – Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort

MODERATOR

Caitlin Martinage

Dr. Ashish Bhatia

Assoc Dir Marketing, Cutera

MD, FAAD

Sean Arendse

Richard Hogben

Tahl Hume

MD

MD

MD

Crystal Patel

Bernard Leung

Michael Rich

RN

MD

MD

WITNESS THE VERY BEST IN

Cutting-Edge Aesthetic Solutions SHARE

LEARN

GROW

Cutera’s educational events are designed to inform and educate practitioners on the latest innovations, techniques, insights, and best practices in Face + Body aesthetic solutions. Cutera University Clinical Forum is an educational resource, to advance your knowledge and learn from your peers on how to optimise your treatment offerings with Cutera devices. Join our leading experts as they share their clinical pearls and insights to help you stay ahead.

TOPICS Cutera University Clinical Forum Australia 2020 will include the below topics and even more: Launch of CUTERA’s latest innovative body sculpting technology.

Real case studies presented by experts - various benign pigmented and vascular conditions, non-invasive body sculpting, tattoo removal and a range of common non-surgical aesthetic concerns.

How to financially and clinically optimize your CUTERA technology – treatment options, technique tips, combining treatment modalities.

Marketing tips that work – best practices and practice management for increasing your ROI with CUTERA devices.

CUTERA UNIVERSITY CLINICAL FORUM Join us on the Gold Coast at this must-attend event for innovative practitioners. #CuteraUniversity #CUCF2020 #CUCFGoldCoast #CUCFAustralia EVENT ENQUIRIES

CUTERA ENQUIRIES

The Production House Events madeline@tphe.com.au 03 9020 7058

Maria Brancatisano aumarketing@cutera.com 1800 288 372 | 0456 111 401

MEDI

Hairy Solutions

With men increasingly interested in cosmetic treatments, the demand for hair regrowth therapies is on the rise. We take a look at four ways to cater to clients with thinning hair.

For preventing hair thinning: a.po.te’ca.ri Mane Event It’s completely normal to lose around 100 hairs every day, but for those who notice their brushes look a little more hairy than they should, trying hair and follicle strengthening supplements may be a good idea. Designed by naturopaths and nutritionists for men and women, the a.po.te’ca.ri Mane Event is a plant-based nutrition supplement, which pushes through growth barriers, generates new growth, thickens hair and strengthens future growth. The hair-loving injection of premium plantbased herbs, aminos, vitamins and minerals is scientifically formulated to build hair, generate growth, improve condition and increase length from within.

Apotecari.com.au

For mild hair thinning: HairMax® LaserBand 82

For severe hair thinning: NeoGraft

The hands-free HairMax® LaserBand 82 cradles the scalp with nourishing laser light to energise and revitalise the hair follicles to regrow hair. In as little as 90 seconds , the entire scalp can be treated, or easily target problem areas from the front hairline to the back of the head in 30 seconds per area.

The LaserBand is FDA cleared and TGA approved for both male and female hereditary hair loss. The lightweight design incorporates hair par ting teeth for optimal laser light delivery to the scalp.

For people with severe hair loss or bald patches, a hair transplant can be a great way to get back a full head of hair.

The procedure works by extracting single hairs including the follicle from an area with a lot of hair and then implanted into the site lacking hair. If done manually, it can be a lengthy treatment, which is why a device like Venus Concept’s NeoGraft can be faster and more accurate. The NeoGraft is an automated hair transplant system, which extracts the hair follicle without damaging it and then helps create recipient sites in the proper depth and angle before the follicles are implanted, leaving no linear scar with little to no discomfort.

Hairmax.com.au

It is estimated that around

40%

of men will have noticeable hair loss by the time they reach the age of 35

For moderate hair thinning: PRP PRP, short for platelet-rich plasma, has been growing in popularity over the past few years. While it’s most commonly used for facial treatments to enhance the quality of the skin, amazing results have been achieved when using PRP on the scalp to promote hair growth.

Blood is taken from the client, which is then spun in a centrifuge to receive concentrated platelets.

This ‘liquid gold’ is the reinjected into the area of concern. The injecting only takes around one to two minutes, with the PRP administered directly on and around the sites of thinning and hair loss, particularly the hairline and crown. There is no downtime – clients can simply expect to be a little tender and avoid washing their hair or swimming within the first two days. Results can be seen around three to six months after treatment. Dr Josh Wall from Sydney based Contour Clinics says “all the feedback [on PRP] I’ve had has been amazing for hair.”

Contourclinics.com.au

84 | SPA+CLINIC

Neograft.com

MEDI

PRP Gets Intimate

T

he ‘Vampire Facial’ doesn’t seem to decline in its popularity, and it’s that same concept that is increasingly used in other areas of the body, such as the scalp to treat thinning hair and joints to treat injuries, but it is a very delicate area that PRP is showing outstanding results in according to Dr Mike Shenouda from Geniale Medical Aesthetic Clinic in Sydney.

Known as the P-Shot and O-Shot, both procedures involve injecting platelet rich plasma into patients’ genitals.

The P-Shot can dramatically and positively improve a man’s intimate life by helping him attain or maintain an erection; increase stamina, size and firmness; heighten sensitivity and sensation; and improve the ability to orgasm. Dr Shenouda is one of only eight specialists in Australia qualified to perform the P-Shot and sees life-changing results from the procedure.

“The procedure is very simple and almost painless. First, a small amount of blood is

extracted from the patient’s arm similar to that in a normal blood test. The blood is centrifuged to isolate platelets and then treated with a specially-formulated calcium

chemical to release growth factors. Finally, the calcium-enhanced PRP (platelet rich plasma) is re-injected with a tiny needle into multiple areas of the penis. It is a painless procedure which takes little time.

Essentially, the P-Shot procedure amplifies the sensitivity of areas, improving the response to intimate contact. The P-Shot takes 40 minutes and is performed under a local anaesthetic, with little or no pain.

There are no side effects and patients can return to their daily routine and resume sexual intercourse almost immediately. In some cases, the results are immediate but may take up to 3 to 4 weeks, with full results within 2 to 3 months.”

The O-Shot is a very similar procedure for women as the P-shot although the PRP is injected into the vagina and G-spot which improves sexual intimacy. In November of last year alone, Dr Shenouda performed 20 shot procedures with demand expected to sky-rocket in 2020.

Are NR Supplements The Answer To Prolonged Youth?

L

ate last year, Nicotinamide riboside (NR) was approved as a listable substance by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. NR is a variation of Vitamin B3, also called a NAD-booster, which helps increase the body’s NAD levels.

“NAD (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) is a cofactor that’s central to metabolism. It’s naturally found in all cells and is responsible for maintaining overall cellular and metabolic energy. Essentially, we can’t function without it! NAD extracts the energy out of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to make our muscles work, nervous system function, digestion, sleep, and hormone production. NAD protects the body from oxidative stress and repairs DNA that is damaged from normal day-to-day exposures, I like to call it ‘urban living’,” explains Naturopath and Founder/Formulator 86 | SPA+CLINIC

of Intrametica, Angela Maree Smith.

According to Dr Nady Braidy, UNSW Medicine, “research has found NAD levels decline with age, and it is the decline in metabolic regulation and cell viability, specifically in skin cells, that affect the ageing of our skin. Boosting NAD levels can be achieved through day-to-day lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, intermittent fasting, as well as trying the ketogenic diet.”

However, those lifestyle factors are often not enough to slow down the decrease in NAD levels with age, which is where supplements come into play. “NAD levels start to deplete over the age of 35–40 years,” says Braidy, “and cannot be replaced effectively through dietary intake. By introducing supplements or ‘boosters’ that contain NR and by making healthy lifestyle changes, you’ll start to see the benefits at a cellular level.”

“Naturopaths and qualified health care professionals may prescribe supplemental NAD to help an individual achieve a specific heath outcome,” adds Smith, “It’s indicated for cardiovascular and cholesterol health, and energy production. Good quality forms of supplemental NAD need to be prescribed by a health care professional. There are risks when taking singular dosing without the guidance of an expert.”

Now that NR is TGA approved, we can expect an increasing number of NAD supplements to come onto the market, some of which may even be available over-thecounter, depending on dosage, says Braidy.

The TGA listing indicates that nutraceutical company ChromaDex has market exclusivity of NR after securing regulatory approvals in the United States, Canada, the European Union, and now Australia.

DISCOVER A YOUTHFUL , MORE R ADIANT AND POWERFUL VERSION OF YOURSELF I N T R A M E T I C A it comes in 3, your answer to:

ENHANCE, TRANSFORM & REVE AL YOUR INNER BEAUTY

Reduces wrinkles Protects from sun damage Clinically trialled collagen and antioxidants for glowing skin from within Supercharge your body and detoxify your gut and liver Balance hormones Reduce acne and inflamed skin Promote hair/nail growth and strength Curb cravings and boost your metabolism High potency, evidence-based botanicals Australian made, organic ingredients Award winning premium formulations

by Naturopath, Angela Maree Smith Delicious tasting and simple to take

CONTACT US TO GLOW FROM WITHIN Email: info@intrametica.com.au | Instagram: @Intrametica

www.intrametica.com.au

MEDI

Microcoring device set to be new facelift alternative

2

020 will see a new – and possible revolutionary – device hit the minimally invasive aesthetics market set to lift and tighten skin better than any light or heat based device. The microcoring device is an energy-free needling tool that drills out tiny columns of skin to prompt a controlled healing response and the promotions of collagen. Each fraction of skin is less than half a millimeter in diameter, which leaves no scar tissue at all. The device is used across the mid- and lower face and has shown great results in first

rounds of testing carried out by Cytrellis Biosystems with 93 per cent of subjects and investigators rating the treatment area “improved” to “very much improved.” The needles used in the treatment are 22 gauge and therefore only slightly bigger than a filler needle which is usually 27 to 30 gauge.

The amount of skin removed per treatment ranges from 5% to 8.5%.

Immediately after the dermal excision, the cores close making this a safe and lowrisk treatment. This is an important factor to note as comparable laser treatments

can take as many as 2 to 7 days for closure of CO2 Laser generated channels. While a surgical facelift requires several weeks of downtime, microcoring results in light swelling and redness for no more than four days potentially making this a great alternative for those who want a facelift but can’t afford the downtime. The device was invented by dermatologists and plastic surgeons at Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, and is still in the clinical stage, expecting to be commercialised mid to late 2020.

Plastic Surgery Anxiety Must Be Managed Right

D

r Ian Chinsee (MBBS, FACCS), who performs 500 breast surgeries per year on average in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, says patients can significantly raise their chances of a good result if they arrive prepared for the first consultation with their surgeon.

“The first consultation is pivotal because it has a direct impact on increased patient satisfaction and decreased anxiety,” he said.

“The more informed the patient is, the more realistic they are about the result. This means patients will be less anxious about their surgery and enjoy an unremarkable and easy recovery period.

“For doctors, it is imperative to understand the patient’s motivations, to weigh their hopes with issues such as surgical safety, wound healing and body shape,” Dr Chinsee says.

He observes that patients fall generally into three categories: “The informed patient has started preparing for the consultation well in advance, researched the risks and will have plenty of questions [...] Importantly, this ensures the doctor and patient are on the same page in terms of expectations.

However, when patients have not done 88 | SPA+CLINIC

the crucial groundwork, the doctor’s job becomes a lot harder.

“There’s a group who have swallowed the cosmetic-treatments lexicon and know the terminology but not the meaning or implications. And then, there’s a cohort who decide on a whim and might bring a photo of a celebrity who looks nothing like themselves.

They can be overawed at the first consultation and are underprepared for the reality of what surgery entails,” Dr Chinsee says.

“Ideally, a patient should be able to explain to the doctor their motivations and expectations for wanting to change their body. The doctor’s role is to explain the process from a medical point of view - different operative techniques, risks and potential complications - and ensure this

fits in with the patient’s expectations.” The issue of cosmetic surgery patients presenting with inadequate or misleading information was highlighted in recent US research. A study, conducted in 2018 by a University of California research team, found nearly one in five cosmetic surgery patients had done no research at all before their first consult.

Patients responding to the survey said before meeting their surgeon they wanted to learn the risks and benefits of a procedure (77.6 per cent), to set reasonable expectations (71.3 per cent), and to understand different techniques of the procedure (67.4 per cent). But 19 per cent had done no fact finding before the consultation, and 25 per cent had no questions afterwards.

Further, the most popular information source (56.9 per cent) for patients before their first surgical appointment was the internet. Dr Chinsee advises patients to be sceptical about apparent clinical information and reviews they find online. “People seeking genuine knowledge and advice on the internet can have a difficult time distinguishing fact from fiction,” he said. “Aesthetic surgery should not be a source of stress, he says. “It’s an elective.

Not a must have.”

Healing Heroes Microneedling and laser are on the rise, but just as important as the actual treatment is the soothing mask immediately after. Meet the post-treatment healing heroes.

Medik8 Ultimate Recovery™ Bio-Cellulose Zinc Mask The cooling and soothing mask provides a unique delivery system of zinc and hyaluronic acid into the epidermis. Advancedcosmeceuticals.com.au

Epi Nouvelle+ Naturelle The mask has been formulated in Germany with the principles of Corneotherapy in mind and is 100% sterile enabling intraoperative use. dermaviduals.com.au

Derm.all Matrix

Hyla Active 3D Sculptured Mask The cloth mask hydrates and cools for immediate relief and nourishes and repairs for long-lasting comfort.

Inskincosmedics.com.au

90 | SPA+CLINIC

Made from skin-akin materials, the white mask turns transparent as hydrating and brightening nutrients are absorbed into the dermis.

Tradekorea.com

MEDI

SociĂŠtĂŠ Rejuvenating Peptide Mask The sheet mask was designed to reduce the signs of redness and irritation that can come with procedures like microneedling or cosmetic injections. Advancedskin.com.au

iS Clinical SHEALD Recovery Balm The moisture-rich formula dramatically replenishes hydration to dry, sensitive or compromised skin while providing an antioxidantrich protective barrier.

Hightechlaser.com.au

Skinceuticals Phyto Corrective Gel

Micro Defense Microbiome Sheet Masks are infused with a moisture rich prebiotic serum to help soothe and hydrate the skin.

This gel calms and soothes skin with anti-redness botanicals such as thyme and cucumber while softening with olive leaf extract.

Advancedskin.com.au

Skinceuticals.com.au

Cosmedix Defense Microbiome Sheet Mask

spaandclinic.com.au | 91

Lip & Eye Power Serum endota spa organics,

A

m Bal 0 Lip ng ld, $15. 5 rati o Hyd spect G

$50

Rose Lip Polish French Girl, $23

A lph

Abs olut e Lip

H, $

32

Perf ecto r a

Pretty Pout Coco Rose Lip Polish Herbivore Botanicals,

$25 via sephora.com.au

Nightly Lip Treatment dermalogica , $75

92 | SPA+CLINIC

Cosmetics

Lip Balm dermaviduals, $39

stem Cell nanofiller lip contour mesoestetic , $121.40

Cherry Bomb Lip Scrub Frank Body, $15

Take your facials to the next level by incorporating a lip exfoliation and hydration into your treatments.

It’s quick, easy, and will leave your clients’ lips plump and soft.

FlashPatch 5 Minute Lip Gels

ot h , $ 4

Hyaluron ic Marine

Dr Dennis

Gross, $46

Collagen Lip Cushio n

Peter T h

om a s R

Unwrin kle Lip

3

patchology, $76 via mecca.com.au

spaandclinic.com.au | 93

Pick and Choose New year, new products! With so many brilliant new launches, it’s hard to pick a favourite.

The latest release from Li’Tya, the Quandong And Camellia Hair Cleanser is a sulphate free shampoo, filled with nourishing organic extracts. Designed to improve the health of the scalp and strengthen hair while promoting sheen, elasticity and hydration, the gentle formula maintains the natural oils and pH of the hair and scalp. Suitable for all hair types, and made without sulphates, synthetic preservatives, artificial colours or artificial fragrances.

LITYA.COM

94 | SPA+CLINIC

One of the new Waterlily Super Serums, SUPER PROOF Intense B3 Perfecting Serum is a skin perfecting niacinamide (15%) dispensed in clinical concentrations of N-acetyl glucosamine, a skin identical active to treat pigmentation, sun damage, fine lines and age spots to visibly brighten and lighten skin tone while boosting barrier function.

Intensified with an active dose of hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, pantheon and marine collagen this quenching skin drink is ideal for rejuvenating fine lines while treating acne skin blemishes, congestion and sensitivity.

WATERLILYSKINBODYSPA. COM.AU

The Babor Reversive Pro Youth Serum, from the newly relaunched Reversive range, promotes an immediately even looking and vitalised complexion.​With key ingredients including Alba Rose Stem Cell Extract, Vitamin E, Polysaccharides, almond oil and the signature Youth Peptide Complex, the formula works to improve skin firmness, tighten, intensely moisturise, and improve radiance and suppleness.

AU.BABOR.COM

Liberty Belle has launched their most luxurious, rich and buttery cream yet – Star Quality combines cutting-edge actives to powerfully target lines, wrinkles and visible skin ageing. The Firming + Radiance + Collagen Complex combined with Niacinamide works to visibly firm and improve brightness and radiance, and the Hydration Saccharide infuses skin with moisture for up to 72 hours, working simultaneously with a Hyaluronic Acid Crosspolymer.

LIBERTYBELLE.COM.AU

Imbibe Beauty Renewal is a microbiologist and scientist-created formula to promote gut health and glowing skin. This liquid concentrate contains the goodness of approximately 6 billion multi-strain probiotics for digestive health, including strains from the Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium families.

The cocktail of skinnourishing, antioxidantrich ingredients include bio-fermented coconut water, grapeseed and pomegranate to encourage hydration and a lit-from-within glow.

IMBIBELIVING.COM

SPOTLIGHT

New from The Jojoba Company, Jojoba Water Toning Mist combines a heavy-hitting blend of antioxidant-enriched pure jojoba leaf extract, soothing jojoba milk and hydrolysed jojoba esters, along with vitamin C-rich desert lime, to deliver an energising hit of hydration for thirsty and dehydrated skin.

Formulated for all skin types, this cruelty-free, vegan-friendly toning face mist works to provide long-lasting hydration, enhance skin firmness and visibly reduce the appearance of pores.

THEJOJOBACOMPANY. COM.AU

TEOXANE Perfect Skin Refiner is an evening skin renewal cream that combines a unique balance of Glycolic Acid and RHA® hydrating technology. Gentle and effective, this exfoliating treatment will help regenerate skin during sleep, promoting a healthier looking, hydrated and more even toned complexion. It helps smooth skin, refine visible pores and reduce pigmentation spots.

TEOXANE.COM/AU/ SKINCARE

In December, Ella Baché launched their latest summer essential – Superfluid Great SPF50+. A primer, tint and SPF in one, the new solution is enriched with Kakadu Plum, Aloe Vera and green tea, and offers a lightweight, glowing sheer coverage in four shades. Free from parabens, alcohol, oxybenzone, octinoxate, and mineral oils, and is tested on sun-loving Australians as opposed to animals.

ELLABACHE.COM.AU

Launching just in time for Valentine’s Day, Alpha-H’s new Absolute Lip Perfector Nude Blush is a lightly tinted multi-tasking lip treatment that nourishes, plumps and rehydrates lips. Formulated with refreshing peppermint and wild mint, Absolute Lip Perfector Nude Blush boasts anti-inflammatory properties and a super cooling effect. Powerful moisturising ingredient HIRULIP™ blends hydrating hyaluronic acid with collagen-boosting tripeptide-1 which work in tandem to plump the lips and minimise lines and other signs of ageing.

ALPHA-H.COM

Skindles offers a revolutionary range of multi-tasking ‘skincare candles’, designed not only to beautifully fragrance a room but naturally moisturise and nourish skin too!

Using a combination of soy, coconut oil and shea, pure essential oils and strictly only (PG) Premium Grade fragrance oils, all ingredients are skin safe certified and meet all global safety requirements. Once burned and lightly cooled, apply onto skin for a rich body oil, use as a hair mask, or add into a bath for a fragrant soak.

SKINDLES.COM

spaandclinic.com.au | 95

10 questions with Sarah Hudson Not only is Sarah Hudson one of Sydney’s leading skin practitioners, but she is also hosting this year’s BEAUTY & SPA Insiders event!

We chatted to the skin expert and owner of Skin

by Sarah Hudson to see what makes her tick.

1. How did you start out in this industry?

Your skin is one of the first things someone will notice when you first meet them.

As a young teenager who suffered with acne, I realised having great skin is a power factor in self-confidence. My passion has always been skin aesthetics – I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. And now, my career spans nearly three decades, and I have been fortunate to ground the foundations of my work in business management, skin education and being a recognised industry spokesperson and skin practitioner.

2. When and why did you decide to open your own clinic?

I wanted to share best practice and provide advice in skin health in a natural, nonsurgical, aesthetic environment advocating skin and wellness. I wanted to establish a bespoke clinic that was designed solely to achieving natural looking, beautiful skin.

I opened Skin By Sarah Hudson in 2008, 4 weeks before the GFC. This challenged my strength and resilience and through hard work and dedication I drove my business forward against opposing trends that were prevalent in the industry.

3. What is your favourite treatment to perform and why?

RF (Radio Frequency) Skin Needling would have to be the standout treatment for me. My business strategy was to establish services that produced results for a natural looking beautiful skin. Over the years, I have invested in state-of-the-arttechnology that is proven and effective in stimulating the production of collagen, with the focus of achieving firmer, plumper, hydrated and naturally beautiful skin.

Your DNA knows how your skin ‘should look’, RF Skin Needling stimulates and sends messages to the cells to wake up and re-grow young healthy skin. (Vivace) RF Skin Needling provides me with the ability to customise diverse skin conditions using combination technology, and this has proven to bring about results that clients are really happy with.

4. What does a typical day in your life look like?

My day starts with an early F45 gym session. It is really important to set my feelgood endorphins in motion and detoxify my body. I work long days, which are physically demanding on my back and shoulders, and resistance training helps to keep these muscles strong. This is key in ensuring career longevity.

My day at the clinic starts at 8am, which gives me the opportunity to plan and review clients’ skincare and treatment programs prior to their arrival. This helps to establish proposed platforms and strategies in achieving the client’s key skin goals.

Throughout the day I often work with media and supply expert commentary before I finish client appointments in the late evening. I like to end my day with an herbal tea and listening to meditation music.

96 | SPA+CLINIC

10 questions with...

5. What has been your biggest challenge (professionally) and how did you overcome it?

Sarah’s recently redecorated home office

I would have to say my biggest challenge professionally has been to stay true and consistent to my foundation principles in skin treatment. This is challenged by a changing landscape of technologies and fad solutions to skin issues which do not bring about long term results. I have invested significant time in my own education and have embraced proven technologies but added with my own skin principles as guiding me through attaining amazing results for my client’s skin. The continual investment of time into education and training is a large factor that defines my success.

6. What do you do in your free time/for your own wellbeing?

I love spending time in my home office, it has become my recluse. I recently had the space re-decorated with a local well-known designer, Peter Laws, who helped establish the most beautiful serene space. With hues of blue, it has an extremely calming but chic feel. It is like spending time in a tree house, I can even hear the birds chirping in the trees.

I love to play music and have conversations with my two teenage daughters, I try to ensure the time we have together is quality time.

7. Favourite restaurant and dish?

Sydney’s Flying Fish Restaurant. As a pescatarian they have an extensive array of sushi and seafood that tempts my palette, each dish is prepared using the most amazing flavours.

8. Spirit animal and why?

For me, definitely a horse. I was fortunate to grow up on a farm and owned the most beautifully spirited Palomino. I have always had a strong connection to horses and have recently acquired a beautiful bronze statue of a horse which sits in my home-office.

The horse spirit symbolises personal drive, passion and appetite for freedom.

The horse signifies overcoming obstacles, and how you should carry yourself in the face of adversity.

9. What is in your beauty bag when you travel?

I want my skin to look its best when I travel so I take everything! I enjoy the time of looking after my complexion. I always travel with 2 cleansers: A Gentle Cleanser with the dual action of removing eye make-up, and an exfoliating AHA cleanser that I can use as a 5-minute mini exfoliating treatment, especially as I wear more sunscreen when on holiday.

I never travel without all my serums and complexes: Vitamin B Complex for hydration, Pigment Complex which is a pigment inhibitor that I apply liberally to my face, neck and chest, as I know I will have more sun exposure than what I have on a daily basis. Vitamin A retinol serum and Vitamin C Complex.

I always travel with 2-3 sunscreens depending on where I am going on holidays.

One for the beach or swimming, One for my chest and neck and one for daily application of my face. It may seem excessive, but protection against pigment and sun-damage is key whilst on holidays.

I also love to travel with 3-4 Societe peptide sheet masks, they are like a ‘flat pack facial treatment’, easy to travel with and instantly hydrate skin. I also love travel pots for eye cream, skin scrubs, and enzyme masks that help to give radiance to my skin when it is feeling lacklustre.

10. What do you look forward to most in 2020?

Developing my role as a skin expert and industry speaker is my main goal for 2020. Opportunities are arising more frequently as I move through the various stages and forums that hold the industry’s attention to key topics in skin aesthetics.

Advancements in skin regeneration is an exciting area that I am particularly interested in and I will be looking forward to engaging and learning about what the future holds in this new and emerging space. spaandclinic.com.au | 97

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