Featured Articles

Meet Samantha, or Sam as she’s affectionately known - the inspiring Founder and Owner of Antidote Cosmetic Studio in Melbourne.

Sam’s career began over 10 years ago in anesthetics, recovery, and medical-surgical nursing. Her experience in these high-pressure environments provided her with the perfect foundation to enter the world of aesthetics in 2017.

Her love for helping others look and feel their best led her to pursue cosmetic treatments and open her own business.

“I’ve been nursing for 10 years now,” Sam says. “I started cosmetics in 2017, and eventually, I started my own business.”

In 2020, Sam founded Antidote Cosmetic Studio, a space dedicated to helping patients achieve a natural, refreshed appearance - like they’ve just returned from a relaxing holiday. Her philosophy is centred around enhancing her patients’ natural beauty rather than drastically changing their appearance.

At Antidote, Sam tailors each treatment to the individual, focusing on subtle yet effective approaches to anti-wrinkle and dermal filler treatments. Each patient receives a meticulous assessment and consultation to ensure their results align with their goals.

Taking the bold step to build her own brand was outside her comfort zone, but she hasn’t looked back since.

What Sam loves most about her work is seeing the transformation in her patients. “I love my job because it doesn’t feel like a job,” Sam says. “I get to see my patients every day and get to know them. I also get to boost their confidence.” 

Why Fresh Clinics?

Starting her own business was a big step, and Sam credits Fresh Clinics with helping her along the way.

“I don’t think I could have done it without the help from Fresh Clinics,” she says. From providing essential tools to offering ongoing support, Fresh Clinics has been there to help Sam grow her practice.

“It’s been so fun - they’re so supportive of me and my goals as a cosmetic nurse,” Sam says.

We’re proud to have Sam as a Member of Fresh Clinics and can’t wait to see what she does next!

Watch the full interview with Nurse Sam here.

Reach out to our team today, call us, or schedule a time to chat below.

In the fast-paced world of aesthetics, a secret weapon separates the good from the great - consultative mastery.

With nearly two decades of industry expertise, Suzie Hoitink, business coach and industry leader, recently shed light on the power of effective consultation and treatment planning with Fresh Members.

Suzie ventured into the cosmetic industry with Clear Complexions Clinics, the first initiative of its kind in Australia. "We started with very humble beginnings, a 60 square meter clinic," Susie recalled. The initial focus was treating conditions like acne, rosacea, and melasma. However, as the industry evolved, so did the clinic's services, expanding to include treatments for patients seeking anti-aging solutions.

Clear Complexions grew exponentially, boasting six clinics by 2017, with over 70 staff members, mostly nurses and doctors. This success story proves the significance of structured consultation processes and effective treatment plans. It isn’t just about having the best technology or the fanciest treatments; it's about understanding your customer’s needs and using systematic processes to ensure every patient leaves satisfied.

"The difference between a good clinician and a great clinician is actually their consultative skill," Suzie asserts. She highlighted that while clinical skills are essential, the ability to connect with patients and understand their needs is the true differentiator among competitors.

Understanding Your Patients

Suzie identified two primary patient groups in the aesthetic industry: needs-based patients and wants-based patients.

• Needs-Based: These are individuals with problematic skin conditions, seeking control over their skin health. They are educated about their conditions and expect you to be equally knowledgeable
• Wants-Based: This group is focused on anti-aging and can be further divided into three subgroups:
  Preventers: Typically younger patients wanting to get ahead of the aging curve
  Preservers: Often perimenopausal women noticing significant changes in their skin and wanting to maintain their appearance
  Reversers: Usually older patients aiming to restore aspects of their youth
  

Understanding these demographics allows you to tailor your consultation and treatment plans more effectively.

Consistency is key to creating a loyal patient base and achieving positive clinical outcomes. Suzie introduced the concept of the "prescriptive cycle," a systematic approach to treatment planning that ensures every patient receives consistent care.

The Prescriptive Cycle Breakdown

1. Seeding the Need: During consultations, it's important to mention potential treatments subtly. "Seeding the need is about saying... well if we are treating around that crow's feet area... I think you should start using a vitamin B3 or a vitamin A eye cream as well," Suzie explained
2. Comprehensive Assessment: Suzie's method of assessing a patient involves the 6-4-2 rule: six areas of wrinkles, four areas of volume, and two areas of skin. This thorough assessment ensures no aspect of the patient's skin condition is overlooked. "If you see it, say it.”
3. Treatment Phase: "Full prescriptions every client, every time" is Suzie's mantra. She believes in providing detailed treatment and skincare plans. "Our duty of care is to provide results safely... but also to give our expert advice.”
4. Five-Minute Reviews: Regular reviews can help maintain the efficacy of treatment plans. Suzie highlighted the importance of accountability, stating, “See patients every three months... to assess the treatment and skincare ensuring that I'm accountable for those results."
5. Review and Replan: At the end of the three months, conduct a thorough review and create a new treatment plan

To achieve this approach, certain tools and processes are important to consider:

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Detailed guidelines for every treatment ensuring every clinician performs procedures uniformly
• Clinical Pathways: Specific treatment and skincare prescriptions for various conditions, aligned with a three-month treatment plan
• Treatment and Skincare Plans: Personalised plans detailing the treatments and products for each patient

Overcoming Common Challenges 

One of the toughest challenges in this industry is handling patient objections, whether about time, cost, or skepticism. Suzie provided a simple yet effective strategy: the open-ended question. When a patient voices an objection, respond with empathy and an open-ended question, such as, "I understand. What can you do?" which opens the door for patients to express their limitations and find workable solutions.

Tactics to Increase Conversion

• Stress Accountability: Emphasise that you will be assessing results and are accountable for their success
• Risk Reversal: Ensure patients know they can come back if they are not 100% happy with the treatment or skincare products
• Utilise "I" Statements: Position yourself as the expert by using statements like, "I need you to use this product for the best results."

Metrics such as consultation conversion rates, average appointment values, and patient retention rates should be monitored to gauge success. Clinics that have adopted these strategies have seen significant improvements in these areas, demonstrating the efficacy of a well-implemented consultation and treatment planning process.

By mastering the art of consultation, implementing systematic processes, and effectively managing objections, clinics can improve patient outcomes and drive business success. As Suzie’ insights revealed, it all starts with a conversation - a conversation that can turn a one-time visitor into a lifelong patient.

 The content of this blog is designed and intended for the education of Healthcare Professionals

Explore the intricacies of advanced lip augmentation techniques as we delve into a recent webinar with highly experienced cosmetic nurse, Sarah Bannon. Sharing her in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy from a comprehensive background in plastic surgery, Sarah outlines an array of sophisticated techniques to optimise the outcomes of lip augmentation procedures.

The Art and Science of Lip Augmentation

During the session, Sarah stated, "With a comprehensive understanding of anatomy and mastering injection precision and product selection, injectors can wield the knowledge and confidence necessary to deliver exceptional results to their patients." Emphasising the importance of the consultation process, she breaks it down into key aspects: listening, interpreting expectations, planning procedures, devising aftercare plans, ensuring that you are ascertaining exactly what your patients want, and explaining that back to them.

Guiding patient expectations is a crucial element in delivering satisfactory results. Sarah points out the influence of social media and celebrity inspiration on patients' desired results. Stay open and honest about their aesthetic goals and always under-promise, and over-deliver – this builds trust and a long-lasting relationship with your patients.

Unlocking The Lip Matrix Mapping Tool

Understanding the desired look your patients want – whether they seek natural lip therapy, lip hydration, or enhanced lip volume - is crucial for determining the proper treatment protocol. Sarah introduced the 'Lip Matrix Mapping Tool', which considers demographics, anatomical considerations, product selection, and tools and techniques to help guide the treatment process and deliver results tailored to each patient’s unique needs and desires.

Natural vs. Enhanced Augmentation

There's a fine line between "Natural" and "Enhanced" lip augmentation. While the former focuses on outlining and hydrating particular anatomical features, the latter aims for an intentional increase in size and shape. Both approaches should consider the patient's original lip shape and size. With experience and understanding of the anatomical considerations, the right product and technique selection can provide noticeable but natural-looking results.

The Importance of Tools and Techniques

Techniques and tools significantly contribute to the outcome of lip augmentation. Preferred tools range from the 25-gauge cannula to BD syringes and surgical needles, all of which can be selected according to the desired outcome. Sarah emphasised, "I encourage people when I'm training them, to play around with their tools. I think it does help solidify your anatomy when you can change up your tools and techniques.”

Approaching Challenges in Lip Augmentation

Sarah shed light on the many factors that could pose potential challenges during lip augmentation procedures. "Asymmetry with muscle contraction is also something that we all would be dealing with quite a lot." Every aspect of facial anatomy is taken into consideration during the procedures to address possible asymmetries and irregularities to provide personalised treatments for the patient's unique anatomy.

Sarah's insights from the latest webinar at Fresh Clinics provided a comprehensive understanding of achieving mastery in lip augmentation procedures. This customer-centric approach, coupled with a keen understanding of anatomy, the right products, tools, and techniques breeds success in the field of lip augmentation.

"Practice makes perfect", Sarah concluded, encouraging budding injectors to refine their techniques and skills continuously

Not a Fresh Member? 

Want to master The Lip Matrix? Your solution is just a call away!

“Collagen - it’s the glue that holds everything together.” - Rachael Finch, Founder of Kissed Earth.

This simple metaphor, spoken during a webinar hosted for Fresh Members, encapsulates collagen's role in our bodies.

As the most abundant protein, collagen is found in every part of our anatomy, from our skin, hair, and nails to bones, joints, ligaments, and even our digestive tract.

Rachael Finch and her husband Michael didn’t set out to create a wellness or collagen brand. Far from it - years ago, they were partners on the dance floor of “Dancing With the Stars.” Little did they know that their chemistry would lead to love and marriage and a business venture that would change their lives.

"We went on this quest,” Rachael shared, “and we had worked in the wellness and health industry for 10-12 years. We were very fortunate to have really good relationships with some of the best health experts across the country.” This ultimately led to the creation of Kissed Earth in 2019. The range has rapidly expanded from collagen supplements to protein powders to meet various health needs.

The Collagen Craze: Bovine vs. Marine

The natural production of collagen slows down as we age, making supplementation a beneficial option. However, not all collagen is created equal. A key distinction exists between bovine (cow) and marine (fish) collagen:

• Bovine Collagen: Contains types 1 and 3 collagen, which support the skin, hair, nails, bones, joints, ligaments, and more. It's the preferred choice for comprehensive benefits
• Marine Collagen: Contains only type 1 collagen, which is primarily beneficial for skin, hair, and nails. It's an excellent option for those who prefer non-cow-derived products due to ethical, religious, or personal reasons

Hydrolysed vs. Non-Hydrolysed Collagen

Another aspect of collagen supplementation is understanding the difference between hydrolysed and non-hydrolysed collagen. Hydrolysed collagen peptides are the purest form, broken down into small amino acids that the body can easily absorb. The processing and sourcing of collagen significantly affect its quality, potency, and effectiveness.

Rachael emphasised the importance of ethically sourcing their products. For instance, their flagship product, bovine collagen, is derived from the German company Gelita, known for its pure, premium-grade peptides.

Real Case Studies 

From clearing adult acne and reducing the appearance of scars to substantial hair regrowth in a young girl suffering from alopecia, the case studies shared were impactful. As Rachael put it, "It's not just about the clear skin, it's about the confidence that this evokes and the self-belief and that self-worth that just comes with clear skin and better results overall."

• Elle: Over 12 weeks, Elle saw remarkable improvements in her adult acne and acne-scarring, regaining her confidence
• Chloe: In just four weeks, Chloe's red facial dots significantly diminished, enhancing her self-esteem
• Summer: A 10-year-old with Alopecia experienced hair regrowth within 11 weeks, thanks to Brilliance collagen, transforming her school life and personal confidence
• Nikki: Planned for a surgical eye lift, Nikki instead saw dramatic improvements in her skin tone and texture from using Kissed Earth products

Making Informed Choices

Rachael’s advice for consumers is simple: do your research. “It's really important to do your research on where you're purchasing your collagen from. It doesn't have to be from us, but just making sure that when you are having a look you're really paying attention to the finer details."

If you’re considering introducing collagen into your clinic, here are some takeaways:

• Choose High-Quality Collagen: Look for hydrolysed collagen peptides from reputable sources
• Understand Your Needs: Determine whether bovine or marine collagen is more suitable for your patient's specific health goals
• Trial the Products: Experiment with different types and forms of collagen to see what works best
• Consistency is Key: Regular use is essential for seeing the best results

As they continue to expand their product range and reach, the impact of Kissed Earth’s approach to wellness is set to grow even further. They maintain their presence in department stores and independent boutiques while consciously avoiding discount pharmacies to preserve the premium value of their products.

Interested in introducing collagen supplements to your practice?

Reach out to our team today, call us, or schedule a time to chat below. 

At Fresh Clinics, skin is always in!

In our recent education session led by Iola, Director, and Founder of REVEAL, with over 30 years in the industry, our Members experienced a deep-dive into the science of skin. 

The webinar empowered our Nurses to understand skin types, common skin conditions, key ingredients, and the essential role of skin care in aesthetic medicine.

The Canvas: Skin Types and Conditions

Our skin, the body's largest organ, plays many roles from offering protection and regulating temperature to providing sensory perception. Skin care in cosmetic medicine begins with acknowledging these roles and considering the skin as the canvas for any aesthetic procedure.

According to Iola, differentiating between skin types and conditions is vital. While skin types remain fairly constant throughout our lives, conditions can vary based on various circumstances, like environmental stress and diet.

Aging, hyperpigmentation, wrinkles, and acne are common conditions treated in cosmetic clinics, bringing our focus toward achieving balanced, healthy skin, characterised by a balanced microbiome and efficient cell turnover.

During the session, Iola reiterated: "The skin is the canvas. It is the most important thing we need to address in addressing the client's overall aesthetic."

Key Ingredients: The Power-Players

Ingredients are the heroes that drive skin care products' efficacy. Revealing the power players in skin care, Iola reminded us that "Vitamin A is the gold standard when it comes to treating photo-aging, improving wrinkles, and also helping to loosen any congestion in the skin." Notably, Vitamin A works best when used at night and exhibits improved effectiveness when coupled with retinol.

Emphasising the importance of a well-rounded skin care routine, Iola also highlighted the equally important roles of vitamins B and C. While vitamin C primarily acts as an antioxidant protecting the skin from free radical damage, vitamin B, particularly niacinamide, plays multiple roles in skin care.

The Role of Skin care in Aesthetic Medicine

A lesson to be remembered from the webinar is that skin care is not just about cosmetics; it's about holistic skin health. As Iola outlined, using skin care along with other treatments can substantially improve outcomes, especially concerning pigment inhibitors, and aging.

Consistency, patient preferences, initial responses, and even considering dopamine receptors' impact are important factors when recommending skin care.

"We are looking at a reduction in wrinkles and pigment in the skin," stated Iola, underscoring the most desired outcomes in aesthetic medicine.

Understanding skin and its complexities is an ongoing learning process. As cosmetic professionals, staying updated gives us the chance to empower our patients with incredible consultations and treatments.

Together, we will continue to explore trends, technologies, and knowledge in the ever-evolving world of skin care.

Thinking of joining Fresh?

Reach out to our team today, call us, or schedule a time to chat below.

The festive season is almost here, and it’s one of the busiest - and most exciting - times of the year for aesthetics. Patients rush to get their treatments done before holidays, family gatherings, and end-of-year celebrations.

To ensure your clinic thrives during this bustling period, we’ve got some tips on getting ‘Christmas-ready.’

Step 1: Develop Your Festive Plan

What does a successful holiday season look like for your business? Maybe it’s full appointment books, gift voucher sales, or a busy yet stress-free team. Take some time to map out a strategy for your clinic that keeps your goals on track.

Think back to what worked well last year - and what didn’t. Repeat the winning strategies and learn from anything that missed the mark - small tweaks to previous initiatives could turn them into successes this year.

Your plan should also include steps to achieve your goals. Want to sell more gift sets? Book more appointments? Consider offering Christmas discounts or extending your opening hours for a short period to accommodate patients. They will appreciate that you’re going the extra mile to accommodate them.

Step 2: Stock Up and Stay Ahead

Imagine the holiday rush in full swing, and you’re running low on your most popular products or consumables. Avoid this by reviewing your stock levels now and placing orders early, focusing on high-demand items.

Not only will this prevent disruptions, but having extra stock ensures you can accommodate last-minute bookings.

Step 3: Encourage Advance Bookings

The key to managing the holiday rush? Encourage patients to book their appointments early. Start promoting pre-holiday bookings now to avoid disappointment. This will help you manage your calendar, ensuring your patients secure their preferred times without the stress of last-minute bookings.

It’s also the perfect time to rebook your customers for their next 2-3 appointments. Remind them of the importance of maintaining their results post-holiday season, and help fill your books through the quieter months of the year.

Step 4: Deck the Halls (and Your Clinic)

Don’t be afraid to get into the holiday spirit! Think decorations and scented candles or holiday music. These cozy touches can make your space feel more inviting and encourage patients to share their experiences on social media.

Consider combining popular treatments or offering pre-packaged skincare sets that make the perfect last-minute gifts and introduce new patients to your business. Better yet? Theme each one with a touch of Christmas.

You could also reward your regulars with tokens of appreciation, like a small discount or complimentary samples, to get them through your shutdown period.

Finish the Year on a High

By getting organised early and focusing on patient and staff satisfaction, you’ll set the stage for a successful festive period - and a great start to the new year.

So pull out the decorations and prepare to make this holiday season your most successful yet!

The aesthetics industry is booming, and behind the treatments are skilled cosmetic injectors who have mastered the art of injectables.

The demand for skilled practitioners is growing, but, how does one become an expert in aesthetic medicine? By training with the most comprehensive Acadamey in Australia, of course!

As beauty ideals evolve and injectables become more mainstream, there’s never been a better time to start or advance your career in aesthetics.

Why Choose Cosmetic Injectables Training?

Aesthetic medicine offers a unique combination of artistry, science, and patient care. This field isn’t just about enhancing appearances; it’s about boosting confidence and helping people feel their best.

With the Australian facial injectables industry valued at $4.1 billion in 2023, opportunities for cosmetic nurses are more abundant than ever. 
This career path offers rewarding benefits like:

• Be Your Own Boss: Establish your own business or contract with one or more cosmetic clinics
• Balance: Greater flexibility and a more manageable workload, without the added stress
• Patient Impact: Experience the joy of helping patients achieve their goals and feel great about themselves

So, what sets Fresh Clinics apart?

The growing demand for aesthetics accentuates the need for cosmetic nurses who can deliver safe and effective treatments. Fresh Clinics is committed to meeting this demand by investing heavily in top-tier training and support. 

Our trainers are some of the most experienced professionals in the industry. They bring years of practical knowledge, ensuring trainees receive excellent guidance and mentorship.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or building on existing skills, our training caters to every level. Plus, our alignment with CPD certification and the Australian College of Nursing means you can trust the quality of your education. 

We understand that exceptional training is the foundation of a successful career. That’s why we’ve developed a range of programs tailored to meet the needs of aspiring and experienced cosmetic nurses.

Cosmetic Nurse Launch Program: Perfect for Beginners

Our Launch Programs are designed for nurses with no prior injecting experience. They are meticulously designed and provide a comprehensive introduction to the fundamentals of cosmetic injectables, including:

• Wrinkle Treatments
• Dermal Filler Techniques
  
• Cannula and PDO Threads
• Sculpting and Collagen-Stimulating Procedures
• & so much more!
  

The program combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on practice, ensuring you feel confident and capable from day one. With one-on-one training, live cosmetic models, and landmark-based techniques, you’ll gain the skills you need for success. 

Ongoing Learning for Experienced Injectors

For seasoned practitioners, we offer advanced courses to expand your repertoire and refine your techniques. Our courses not only enhance skill sets but position our Members as trusted experts.

Fresh Training Initiatives 

We’re getting ready to reimagine our Learning Management System (LMS). Stay tuned for an exciting platform designed to elevate your learning experience with even more interactive features. 

Your dream career in cosmetic injectables is within reach. Ready to begin?

Reach out to our team today, call us, or schedule a time to chat below. 

As the calendar flips to a new year, it's the perfect time to reflect on goals and lay the groundwork for a successful 2025.

Goal setting is a powerful tool for professional growth and personal fulfillment. By establishing simple, actionable goals, you can set yourself and your clinic up for sustained success.

Here’s how to start 2025 with intention and make it your most successful year yet.

The Importance of Goal Setting

When you set specific and meaningful goals, you’re more likely to turn your aspirations into actions. Goals provide direction, keep you focused, and help measure your progress, and establishing them provides direction and motivation, encouraging you to:

• Clarify Priorities: Determine what's most important in your professional and personal life
• Measure Progress: Track achievements and identify areas for improvement
• Stay Accountable: Commit to your objectives and maintain focus

Setting Goals

The SMART framework is a tried-and-true method for effective goal setting:

• Specific: Clearly define what you want to achieve
• Measurable: Set criteria to track progress
• Achievable: Ensure your goals are realistic
• Relevant: Align them with your long-term vision
• Time-Bound: Establish a timeline to create urgency
  

Examples of professional SMART goals to utilise in your clinic:

1. Increase patient retention rates by 10% over the next six months by implementing a personalised follow-up system like automated reminders and loyalty incentives
2. Introduce a new cosmetic treatment by September 2025, and train all staff on these services within three months of launching
3. Increase retail skincare sales by 25% by implementing product recommendations during consultations and training staff on upselling by June 2025
   

Examples of personal SMART goals to utilise during your planning session:

1. Dedicate one day per week as a ‘no-work’ day to focus on personal interests and hobbies starting January 2025
2. Schedule monthly wellness days throughout 2025 to reduce burnout and prioritise mental and physical health
3. Save 5% of monthly revenue in a growth fund to reinvest in the business by the end of 2025

The Challenge of Sticking to Goals

80% of New Year's resolutions and goals fail by Feb, and sticking to them throughout the year can be hard. The secret to maintaining momentum is to structure your approach, so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

• Break Goals Down: Divide larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks. This makes progress more tangible
• Regular Check-Ins: Schedule reviews to track your progress and make adjustments as needed
• Accountability Partners: Share your goals with peers or mentors who can provide support and keep you accountable
• Celebrate Milestones: Recognise and reward yourself for achievements, no matter how small they feel

Make 2025 Your Year

Goal setting is the first step to success. By combining clear objectives with consistent effort, you can elevate both your career and personal life. Here’s to a year of growth, achievements, and more!

Is your appointment calendar not as full as you'd like?

Growing your social media presence can attract new clients, but we understand it comes with its own set of challenges with the latest TGA restrictions. 

Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are excellent tools to engage potential clients who are interested in aesthetic treatments. Here’s how you can stay compliant while attracting new clients to your practice:

Emphasise Your Expertise

Build trust with potential clients by showcasing your experience. You can do this by highlighting your upskilling and education, general tips, and advice.

Promote Consults

Encourage potential clients to book consultations where you can discuss treatments in detail such as 'Schedule a personalised consultation with me,’ or ‘Book an obligation-free consultation to learn about your aesthetic options.’

Have Some Fun!

Don’t be afraid to get in front of the camera and show off your fun side. This helps build a personal connection with potential clients. Consider sharing behind-the-scenes content, personal stories showing off your love for aesthetics, and jump on all the latest dance trends!

Choosing the Right Platforms

Identify where your ideal clients are most active. Find your niche on one or two platforms initially and master them before expanding. Most of our Members start with Instagram and TikTok.

Build a Content Calendar

Consistency is key to maintaining an engaging social media presence. A content calendar helps ensure a steady flow of posts. Here’s how to create one:

• Use a spreadsheet or calendar app
• Use free tools like Meta Business Suite or Sprout Social to plan and schedule content ahead of time

Building Your Brand

Your social media should reflect your brand identity consistently. Maintain a consistent look and tone across all platforms. Tools like Canva can help create cohesive visuals.

Social Media Insights

Use analytics tools to monitor your social media performance and adjust your strategy. Track metrics like reach, engagement, clicks, and lead generation. Experiment with different content types and strategies to see what resonates best with your audience.

By consistently engaging while staying up to date with the latest TGA and AHPRA guidelines, you can transform your social media presence from carousel scrollers to loyal clients.

If you have any questions or need further assistance regarding the latest TGA guidelines, feel free to reach out to us. We are here to help.