Our skin team recently attended the Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians 8th Annual Conference in Melbourne. The conference focused on the importance of working collaboratively with other allied practitioners. We wanted to share some of the knowledge gained from this informative trip. 

Key learning #1 from our Skin Team Leader, Lauren

Lauren’s main takeaway from the conference was a reminder to think of the body as a whole and not each part singularly. We regularly treat the face and only tend to think of the associated benefits in that particular area. It’s important to remember that all organs and systems interact and maintain homeostasis or balance in the body. 

The lymphatic system (a network of tissues and organs) plays an essential role in eliminating toxins and delivering white cells around the body to combat infection. The system relies on movement for stimulation hence a sluggish/ sedentary lifestyle can greatly impact your lymphatics and your health. Gentle massage and daily movement help to keep your lymphatic system moving and aids in lymphatic drainage to clear your skin and tissues of unwanted toxins.   

Gut microbiome (a vast community of bacteria and fungi that inhabit your gastrointestinal tract) was another hot topic. It can have a major influence on your metabolism, susceptibility to illness, immune system, appetite and mood. And of course – skin. Certain skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis etc are usually an indicator of something else going on in your body. Many studies have explored how the literal environment you are born into is what your gut microbiome is built on. Some children with asthma and allergies are the result of the bacteria they have been exposed to during their early stages. 

Key learning #2 from our Medical Skin Therapist, Bryony 

For Bryony, the conference further confirmed that many of the treatments we use in clinic can do so much more than what we use them for cosmetically.  LED therapy such as Healite is capable of a systemic effect aiding in repair in areas other than the localised treatment area. 

Near infra-red or red LEDs charge what is called the mitochondria in the cell, which is responsible for converting energy to enable all cell functions: in its action it is able to stimulate skin cells to repair and regenerate, as well as nerve cells, helping with pain relief. LED light therapy has been used to help treat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), arthritis, muscular and bone pain/fractures. LED is being used and recognized as an effective way to reduce inflammation, having a direct effect on lowering pain. Patients using it for rehab are experiencing increased mobility and are more able to perform exercises which will further improve their condition. 

Key learning #3 from our Medical Skin Therapist, Bhavna 

Bhavna found the focus on inter-professional practices particularly compelling. A collaborative practice where people from different disciplines in a health care environment offer patients/clients a wider range of effective solutions for their concerns. It requires patient-centred care where teamwork and communication are of utmost importance. This confirmed the benefit of having our skin team, nutritionist, and doctors work together to deliver a holistic approach to transforming skin.   

Additionally, Bhavna found a key learning in the impact of Transdermal Delivery. Whatever we apply to the skin has the potential to be absorbed and travel around the body – this is a process called Transdermal Delivery. An interesting example of this is when you rub a piece of garlic on the sole of your foot; you can taste it in your mouth! Because of this, it’s important we think about what we are applying to our skin or coming into contact with such as chemicals, cleaning products, hair products, body moisturisers, etc 

Because everything you use will have an effect internally and externally, Bhavna suggests that when you invest in skin, hair and body care, it should be more than good – it should be excellent.  

The team came away feeling inspired and enlightened. It’s so important for us to keep learning and developing. What we bring back from these conferences is invaluable and make us better equipped to provide top quality, innovative services for our clients. 

Wanting to start your skin journey today? Book in for an Initial Skin Consultation with one of our experts and begin your trajectory to healthy, rejuvenated skin that you can be proud of – take it from us, it’s worth it!