10 Questions You Must Ask Before Your Next Skin Treatment

KEEP
YOUR
SKIN
SAFE
10 QUESTIONS
YOU MUST ASK
YOUR LASER
THERAPIST,
COSMETIC
TATTOOIST OR
SKIN THERAPIST
dermhealth.co

C O N T E N T S
j u s t o n e t h i n g a t a t i m e
Foreword...............................................................................................1
Who am I...............................................................................................2
Qualifications: first and foremost......................................................3
Membership: safety in numbers.........................................................4
Consultation: best foot forward......................................................... 7
Consent: what are you really consenting to?...................................11
Patch test: the best practice that might just save your skin..........13
After care: your results don't stop at the front door......................15
Hygiene: the difference between smooth recovery & infection.....19
Legal: is it even legal?........................................................................21
No: being told no isn't such a bad thing...........................................23
Rapport: it's not me, it's you............................................................ 25
Checklist: bonus.................................................................................27
Community: become a dermhealth.co insider.................................28
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F O R E W A R D
k e e p y o u r s k i n s a f e
You may be wondering how to choose the right person when booking your
appointment for laser, skin treatments, cosmetic tattoo or even plastic
surgery.
The market is flooded with services all promising results. This guide will
help you to make an educated decision on the establishment you choose.
Following the 10 steps will ensure that you keep your skin safe and
receive the best possible outcomes and it needn't be daunting. You can
often find out the answers with a quick online search or contacting the
clinic and asking a little bit more about their services.
The following steps are based on years of experience working within the
industry and the most common concerns faced by consumer and therapist
alike.
At the end of the guide, I have compiled a shortcut checklist for easy
reference.
If you are still unsure about a practitioner, contact us and we are more
than happy to do the due diligence for you. Our mission is to bring patients
and practitioners together and empower you on your skin health journey.
Use this guide if:
You've tried many treatments without results.
You've experienced a traumatic experience during a past treatment.
You're not sure who, how or where to find a practitioner that is going
to get the results you're after.
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1.

w h o a m I
My name is Marnina, I am a passionate Dermal Clinician with a
particular interest in scar revision, paramedical tattoo, and the
lymphatic system.
My current positions and experience include appointed board
member of the Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians,
dermatoscopist and melanographer with skin smart Australia and
clinical supervisor at Victoria University in lymph biology and
dysfunction.
I have heard countless times the difficulties people face when trying
to find a practitioner to treat their skin concern. Many people have
expressed their stress and frustration trying to find someone
that is qualified and experienced in their field.
Many people have spent 100's if not 1000's of dollars on treatments,
only to feel that their money has been wasted because their
practitioner over promised and under delivered.
I decided to write this guide because it is my mission to empower you
in your healing journey and provide skin health education.
I deeply hope that it gives you more confidence going forward.
- Marnina
xx

Q U A L I F I C A T I O N S
f i r s t a n d f o r e m o s t
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Q U A L I F I C A T I O N S
t h e t r e n d o f f a l s e t i t l e s
Anyone can give themselves a fancy title but are they actually qualified to
be performing the treatments they are offering? Where did they study?
Was it accredited training at a training organisation or in-house
within their clinic? Was it extensive or a short day course?
The aesthetics industry in many states of Australia is highly unregulated. It
is not uncommon to find a former accountant complete a five-day course
in cosmetic tattoo. This is not a scare tactic, there are not phonies on every
corner, but they are out there. If you ask the right questions you're going
to ensure that when you spot a phonie it'll be BEFORE your appointment,
not after it!
Questions to ask:
Where did you study?
What qualifications do you hold?
How long was your course?
How to spot a douzey:
Multiple bad reviews calling them out on their qualifications. Check
google and social media.
Less obvious signs could be promotion of treatments without any
evidence or hard pushing of multi-level marketing products.
Highly trained is very different to highly qualified.
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4.

G E T R E A L
a n e a s y p e a s y
p h o n e s c r i p t
"Hi my name is [enter your name], I am enquiring about
[particular treatment] to help with my [enter condition] before
I book in for an appointment/consultation I would like to know
a little bit more about the treatments you offer and the
practitioners that work there."
"What is their background?"
"Will I see the same practitioner each treatment?"
(this may help weed out the fast-paced revolving door clinics that
don't allow valuable time for consultations, building rapport, etc)
If you like the answers: "I'd like to book in consultation if
possible."
If you don't like what they're putting down: "Thank you so much
for your time, have a nice day."
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M E M B E R S H I P
s a f e t y i n n u m b e r s
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M E M B E R S H I P
l o o k f o r t r u s t e d p a r t n e r s
There are associations for just about every industry in Australia.
Associations are organisations that represent the chosen industry
and often have policies and requirements that the member must
adhere to. They may also offer ongoing training, legal advice and business
support to the member.
Joining an association often requires members to provide evidence of
qualifications, ongoing training and certificates such as first aid.
Additionally, someone that pays a yearly fee for association
memberships is more often than not, serious about their profession and
views a membership and ongoing professional training and development as
an important investment.
You found a goodie:
They will display their membership certificate proudly! Have a look
on their website or clinic walls for evidence of membership.
Associations often have a membership directory. If you can find them
on the directory you can be certain their membership is legitimate.
How to spot a douzey:
Top Tip:
Do they list associations that don't seem to exist or don't have a
working website?
Ding Ding Ding... phonie alert!
To find associations either google the industry or view the growing
dermhealth.co directory list by visiting www.dermhealth.co
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7.

C O N S U L T A T I O N S
b e s t f o o t f o r w a r d
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C O N S U L T A T I O N S
a n a r t f o r m
Upon first visit, some may view consultation as time-consuming and
frustrating.
On the flip side, if you've ever been to an appointment and are not given
even a basic consultation then alarm bells ring. The depth of consultation
will depend highly on the type of treatment that you are undergoing.
A treatment that poses more risk and aftercare will require a more thorough
consultation. Do not underestimate the importance of the consultation
process. A therapist that conducts a complete medical and lifestyle history
prior to your appointment is a therapist that you want in your life.
Behind the scenes, they are conducting an analysis of all the things that may
affect the outcome of your procedure. Even things you think trivial, such
as vitamins and social smoking habits may impact the outcome of your
treatment. Enjoy the process, it is likely you will learn some valuable
information along the way and if your therapist isn't unveiling some
important health aspect, walk away.
You found a goodie:
Before even starting the treatment they ask you to complete a
consultation form and ask relevant questions about your answers.
How to spot a douzey:
They don't offer you a form to fill out at your first appointment, ask if
have any health conditions or if you're taking medication? Get
walking... right outta that door!
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9.

G E T R E A L
c o n s u l t a t i o n
c h e c k l i s t
Ask the right questions during your consultation to prevent any
surprises down the track. Take this checklist to your appointment.
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
Q:
A:
What is involved in the treatment?
How long will the treatment take?
What are the risks to the treatment?
What will the treatment feel like?
What are the typical results for the treatment?
Will I need to make any lifestyle changes during the
treatment?
Will there be ongoing treatments or costs involved?

C O N S E N T
w h a t a r e y o u r e a l l y
c o n s e n t i n g t o ?
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C O N S E N T
y e s , n o , I d o n ' t k n o w
Consenting to treatment is more than just saying yes. Informed consent
requires that you understand all aspects of the treatment including; the
treatment process; the risks and benefits of having the treatment;
alternative options to having the treatment; and understanding the aftercare
instructions.
Consent can be either given verbally, written or implied.
If you feel confused about the treatment or uncomfortable with the
downtime of the treatment it is important to voice these concerns with your
therapist. You should not feel rushed to undergo treatment and have
every right to go home and think about it and consider your alternative
options.
Even if you are on the treatment table and you change your mind, this is
your right. A professional therapist will accommodate your decision process.
You found a goodie:
Before even starting the treatment they ask you to complete a
consultation form and ask relevant questions about your answers.
They provide you with both the benefits and risks to the treatment
and thoroughly cover home care and lifestyle advice prior to booking
your appointment.
How to spot a douzey:
They don't offer you a form to fill out at your first appointment, ask if
have any health conditions or if you're taking medication? Get
walking... right outta that door!
The clinic requests you pay for a treatment package up front before
they have even seen you for a consultation.
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12.

P A T C H T E S T I N G
t h e b e s t p r a c t i c e
t h a t m i g h t j u s t s a v e
y o u r s k i n
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P A T C H T E S T I N G
t h e l i t t l e t e s t
Patch testing is undergoing a small test of the treatment in an inconspicuous
area several days before undergoing the full treatment.
While patch testing is not vital for all Dermal Therapy treatments it is advised
for invasive therapies or when the individual is at a higher risk of adverse
reactions e.g. past allergies, prone to keloid scarring.
If you are enquiring about such treatment ask the clinic if they conduct patch
tests, if they do not, ask yourself do you really trust that the clinic has your
safety at heart. A skilled therapist that has conducted a thorough
consultation will usually indicate if there is a requirement for a patch test.
Although it may seem unproductive to undergo a patch test, they are
an effective way to determine the correct strengths and settings for
your full treatment.
Usually, if you are going to have an adverse reaction to something the patch
test will indicate this. If this occurs you will be thankful that it has occurred in
a small area.
You found a goodie:
Test patching is part of the clinic protocol.
How to spot a douzey:
The treatment is invasive or you have expressed your concern due to
allergies, past reactions and they don't recommend or suggest a patch
test.
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14.

A F T E R C A R E
t h e r e s u l t s a r e i n
t h e f o l l o w u p
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A F T E R C A R E
Your treatment should not stop when you walk out the door of the clinic.
Do you know if the treatment you have had will require you to make some
lifestyle changes?
Do you know what you should be using on your skin after the treatment?
Do you know what you SHOULD NOT be using on your skin after the
treatment?
Has your therapist told you what to look for if something were to go wrong?
An incorrect aftercare program can completely alter the outcome of the
treatment. You should expect both verbal and written aftercare from your
therapist. You should also be given the understanding of the recovery time
following your treatment so that you can organise your social events and
work schedule around this 'down time'.
Understanding your aftercare falls into consenting to the treatment if you
don't know the details how can you agree to have the treatment?
You found a goodie:
y o u r r e s u l t s d o n ' t s t o p a t
t h e f r o n t d o o r
A list of home care recommendations is listed on their website and
you are given a copy of relevant homecare recommendations during
your consultation.
How to spot a douzey:
What homecare? There has been no conversation about what to do at
home before or after your treatment.
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16.

H O M E C A R E
c o n s i d e r a t i o n s
Medications
Ensure your therapist knows a list of all your supplements and
medications. Even some natural remedies can affect healing outcomes
or thin the blood.
Questions
Do you need to cease taking supplements?
Will any medications affect your treatment outcomes?
Are any of your medications photosensitizing? This is especially
important during laser treatments.
Risks
Side effects ranging from increased possibility of bruising to lifethreatening
conditions may result from medication usage during some
treatments.
Sun Exposure
Some treatments may mean that you are more sensitive to sun
exposure or need to avoid sun exposure all together even prior to your
treatment.
Risks
Scarring or pigmentation changes may occur if sun avoidance is not
adhered to.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a vasodilator and may cause you to bleed more than usual.
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours prior to procedures.
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H O M E C A R E
c o n s i d e r a t i o n s
Smoking
Smoking can significantly reduce your ability to heal due to the
reduction of oxygen circulation. If you are a smoker and undergoing an
invasive surgery it is highly recommended to cease smoking for 2
weeks before and after procedures.
Risks
Delayed healing, infection and increased scarring may result due to
smoking throughout invasive procedures.
Clothing
While it may seem obvious not wear something that digs in or abrades
the skin after particular treatments it's also important to consider the
type of fabric that you wear. For example, if you had a laser tattoo
removal appointment wearing synthetic workout gear all day may
create a breeding ground for bacteria. Wear loose-fitting cotton
clothing for several days, or until the skin heals and the heat dissipates.
Exercise
Many treatments have an effect by creating a degree of heat in the
skin. The heat may last from a couple of hours to several days and
while you may not be going straight to a hot yoga class following your
procedure, consider that there are many processes occurring
underneath the surface of the skin that isn't necessarily seen.
So before you plan a boot camp training session or spin class in the
week following your treatment, ask your practitioner what the
recommended time frame is for repair and recovery.
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H Y G I E N E
c l e a n l i n e s s i s n e x t t o
g o d l i n e s s
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H Y G I E N E
t h e d i f f e r e n c e b e t w e e n
s m o o t h r e c o v e r y & i n f e c t i o n
If the clinic is not sparkling clean then what do you think the treatment
equipment looks like? Make sure both the cleaning and hygiene practices are
up to scratch.
If you're undergoing a treatment where there may be blood, is the therapist
wearing protective equipment such as gloves, gown, and mask? All sharps
should be disposable and if the equipment is reused it should be placed in
an autoclave. Even tweezers!
Cross-contamination of bacteria and blood-borne diseases is
significantly reduced if the therapist follows the correct guidelines.
These practices become a habit to the educated therapist and are absolutely
necessary to keep both you and the therapist safe.
Take note:
Can you see sharps disposal bins and biohazard waste bags close to
the treatment area?
Does your therapist walk around with gloves, touching every surface
and potentially spreading pathogens?
Many states in Australia require there to be a sink with access to hot
water and foot operated (or non-touch) taps for any treatments that
may come into contact with body fluids, this even includes the
humble facial!
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20.

I S I T L E G A L
I k n o w r i g h t , I c a n ' t
b e l i e v e t h i s s h o u l d
e v e n b e a q u e s t i o n
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I S I T L E G A L
a e s t h e t i c c o w g i r l s a n d
c o w b o y s
In many parts of Australia, the aesthetic industry is very much unregulated.
This means that there may be therapists out there that are performing
treatments that are outside the scope of their practice or even illegal!
While it may be difficult to uncover who is offering services they are not
adequately trained it is important to be aware of therapists limitations.
There was a case in Australia in 2018 where a woman died following a nonsurgical
breast augmentation performed by a non-medical technician using
imported and non-approved substances. Tragic! While this is rarely a more
common form of operating illegally would be to use peptides infused
during a collagen induction treatment.
All clinics require to hold public liability and/or personal indemnity
insurance. This insurance is based upon the services that they offer.
The clinic treatment rooms will have certain requirements depending on the
treatments offered outlined in their insurance policies. These requirements
may be different depending on the local council and state government laws.
To ensure that the clinic you visit is operating legally ask about their
insurance coverage and obtain a copy of the required guideline from your
local council.
Also, consider how social media has an impact on the treatments that are
performed. Just because it is the latest craze on social media, 'hello BB glow
treatment!', it doesn't mean it is safe, or even legal.
Avoid practitioners that are the first to jump on the latest trend.
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22.

W I L L T H E Y S A Y
N O
n o i s n o t s u c h a b a d
t h i n g , I p r o m i s e
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W I L L T H E Y S A Y N O
b e i n g t o l d n o n e v e r f e l t s o
g o o d
Sometimes a therapist may decline a treatment.
The reasons could be:
The treatment may not lead to the results you are after.
A referral or second opinion may be needed.
Your skin may not be prepared for the treatment.
The risks of the treatment outweigh the benefits.
The condition or treatment may be out of their scope of practice.
Don't take it personally, unless they are downright nasty!
A therapist that has the confidence and maturity to decline treatment
is more likely than not a professional you can trust that is not driven
solely by sales targets.
There are unfortunately therapists out there that will perform treatments
due to the pressure they feel to meet their required targets.
If you have declined a treatment expect that a plausible explanation is given
with alternatives or suggestions for future treatments.
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24.

R A P P O R T
i t ' s n o t m e , i t ' s y o u
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R A P P O R T
I d o n ' t l i k e y o u , t h e r e f o r e I
d o n ' t t r u s t y o u
Finally, but definitely not least important!
Do you like your therapist!? Do you have a rapport with them? Do they make
you feel welcome and safe? Do they treat you with a high level of respect and
professionalism?
If you dislike your therapist as a person and don't enjoy their presence while
having your treatment, you're going to be less likely to trust them and follow
their recommendations.
No, you don't have to get along with them like they are your oldest friend but
you are more likely to continue your treatments if you also like the
therapist you are going to see.
A therapist that endeavors to build rapport with you are more likely to be
passionate about their career and more accommodating to your needs
throughout the course of your treatments.
a s p e c i a l t h a n k s . . .
So there we have it, the key points to finding a practitioner to keep your skin
safe, no matter what the treatment is that you are having.
I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU for reading this guidebook and taking
responsibility for your skin.
I hope you feel empowered and feel more comfortable finding a practitioner
that is right for you to keep your skin safe!
In good skin health,
M a r n i n a x x

B O N U S C H E C K L I S T
0 1
Q U A L I F I E D
What kind of training did they undergo? Is it
recognised? What was the length?
0 2
M E M B E R
Are they a member of relevant associations and
government bodies?
0 3
C O N S U L T
Is the consultation thorough? Do they even
perform a consultation?
0 4
C O N S E N T
Do you know the risks, benefits and alternative
treatment options?
0 5
P A T C H T E S T
Do they perform a patch test for treatments of
higher risk?
0 6
A F T E R C A R E
Are you given after-care instructions before
you even undergo treatment?
0 7
H Y G I E N E
Is the premises clean? What about hand
hygiene and disposing of bio-hazardous waste?
0 8
L E G A L
Do they hold the relevant insurance? Are they
practicing legally?
0 9
R E F E R
Will they refer you if there is something that
may need further investigation or is outside of
their scope of practice?
1 0
R A P P O R T
Do you feel that you can trust them? Do you
think they have your best interests at heart?
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A N I N V I T A T O I N
w e ' d l o v e t o
h a v e y o u
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