Deciding to undertake a treatment program to address skin concerns is a big step. Choosing where to go and who to see can be both daunting and confusing, as the equipment and qualifications of the professionals offering these types of treatments is so varied.
Unfortunately, not all practitioners within the dermal therapy industry have the necessary qualifications and training to undertake treatments in a safe and effective manner.
So before you decide on moving forward with a treatment plan, be sure to ask your practitioner the following questions.
If you are satisfied that your practitioner answers these questions and provides you with the information you need to make an informed decision then you may be ready to book in for your treatments.
Q1
What are your qualifications?
Do you have nationally accredited qualifications that are from a university or a registered training organisation?
You should ask to see them if they are not on display.
Certificate = days/weeks
Diploma = 6-18 months
Degree = 3-4 years
Q2
Are you a member of the Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians?
Registered Dermal Clinicians and Dermal Therapists with the ASDC are upheld to standards of ethical and evidence based practice.
Q3
Do you have accredited and up to date LASER safety qualifications?
Continued education and refresher programs are advised by the ASDC.
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LASER safety regulations and guidelines change and it is important to be up to date. it is recommended to update every 3 years.
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Q4
What experience do you have performing this procedure?
Scope of practice is defined not only by education but also by experience.
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Many new procedures emerge over time. It is important to ask about the specific training they have had in a particular procedure or technique.
Things you can ask.
How long they have been performing the technique/procedure?
or/ How many of these specific procedures they have performed?
Q5
What equipment and products are being used on my skin? Are they of the highest quality?
Unfortunately, the aesthetic sector is still largely unregulated. It is important to ask about the quality of the devices and products being used on your skin. Some devices and products may be TGA regulated if they are considered medical devices or therapeutic goods. Others may not if they are considered cosmetic products for for cosmetic use.
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Things you can ask
Are they supplied by reputable companies?
Is equipment serviced regularly?
Q6
Is it necessary to have a consultation?
You should have a consultation for all skin health/dermal therapy procedures.
During your consultation you can discuss your skin concerns and goals.
This appointment is an opportunity for your clinician to provide you education on what procedures may assist to address those concerns, whether what you hope to achieve is realistic, how long it make take, cost, potential risks and what may need to be done to prepare.
Q7
Will I have a cooling off period?
In order to consent to treatment you should receive a consultation appointment and time to think about if treatment is right for you.
Treatments that carry a risk should have a cooling off period. Depending on the person and the procedure this can be anywhere from 24 hours to 7 days.
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Q8
If I am receiving a light based procedure will I be test patched? Is a a skin cancer check required?
Not all machines and products are made equal and all people can respond differently to treatments. This is due to many factors including previous sun exposure, medical conditions, medications, genetic predisposition and skin type.
Test patching is best practice to minimise risks of dermal therapy procedures.
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The ASDC also advocate that anyone receiving treatment with IPL and LASER procedures should have a skin cancer check prior to treatment.
Q9
If there is a side effect from treatment how will this be managed?
It is important to know the possible side effects of treatment and how they will be managed. Most procedures that are aiming to cause a change in the skin will have risks.
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You can ask what are the common side effects I can expect? Are there any more rare or severe side effects that I need to be aware of?
If something happens how will you help me to manage this?
Q10
Do you hold your own insurance?
Ensuring your practitioner is covered by insurance and registered with local councils means that the premises complies with relevant health and safety requirements and they are working within their scope of practice.