Today’s consumer is more discriminating and better informed than ever before with the abundance of information available at hand. They want facts, not fiction, real benefits, not vague promises. It is the job of a therapist to inform and educate the client about skin care, treatments and products, which will virtually harness trust and confidence. To inform others, the therapist must first be knowledgeable. Education is an essential ingredient for skin care professionals or for that matter any profession. It is very important to receive accredited training from a reputable organisation or skin care company, to build a firm foundation in developing a career within skin care. Avoid temptations of attending a crash or abridged versions to attain certificates quicker.
Though, the temptation looks favourable, as one can commence work in a shorter period and start earning sooner, but in the long run, you are actually disadvantaged because those who have spent the stipulated time in training will overtake you in their career development. Training and education provides a basic platform to advance your knowledge and skills in skin care, which rewards you with respect and trust from the clients in your ability to care for their skin care needs.
Happy clients will refer friends and family to trained and qualified therapists who are 
knowledgeable in skin care, rather than a therapist who simply follows instructions without a thorough understanding of the actual benefits and more importantly, as to why they are performing a specific treatment. Before you invest time and money in selecting a training programme to attend, make an informed decision.
Have a thorough understanding of your scope of practice as a skin care therapist, make sure it is something you will be able to utilise. Learn as much as you can about the individual or institution offering the education, about their background and credentials. Are they accredited or recognised in some manner to offer the course? Due diligence will go a long way here to help you filter through the reputable from the not-so-reputable offerings.Irrespective of training received, do not go beyond the bounds of your limit or ability professionally.
Skin care courses will equip the therapist to understand the anatomy and physiology of skin, the importance of hygiene and introduction of electrical equipment within the treatment. Hands-on training is integral along with the science behind the treatments, such as skin peels or exfoliation, how to treat sun damage or acne, and more. It is inevitable to incorporate the use of advanced electrical devices, such as ultrasound, micro-current, laser within the treatment to enhance the results. Training in the use of technology is important to understand the benefits and contra-indications posed for the clients. For example, a consumer with heart condition should not receive any electrical treatment unless a formal letter is received from their cardiologist or GP.
If one intends on working in a medical setting, like medi-spas or with a dermatologist, take specialised skin care courses available in order to understand the needs of a patient whose skin has been affected by trauma or surgical procedure. More importantly, this will assist in deciding when to refer a client to a doctor because treating clients with certain skin concerns, like skin cancer, is beyond your professional boundary.
Education helps to build professional etiquette and boundaries of a skin care therapist. One should always communicate and maintain a relationship within a professional boundary. Getting too personal with customers will lead to compromising one’s professionalism and your reputation, as well as, that of the establishment. Wearing a uniform plays a major part in the perceived professional image, which encourages trust and confidence.
Retail training is vital for any successful skin care therapist because there are limitations on the management and maintenance of results achieved from a specific or course of treatments, if clients either don’t follow or use a self-prescribed home care regimen. By
recommending a customised healthy skin care regimen, post a thorough consultation skin analysis, clients will see the results, thereby increasing their trust and loyalty in you. It is important to understand the formulations of any products whilst appreciating the true benefits of the specific ingredients. This knowledge will help with the selection of good products to not-so-great products, which can be used in business and clients.
Many distributors and manufacturers of skin care equipment brands have created additional courses to keep the therapist abreast of new science, technology, ingredients, techniques, and more, as the skin care industry is in a constant state of change. Continuing education certification and accreditations whilst developing existing skills, are extremely important in advancing the knowledge and building confidence.
One cannot afford to become complacent in this ever evolving skin care industry! Keeping updated with the most recent treatments and advances in skin care, will not only expand the earning capabilities, but open up opportunities to grow professionally. To educate ourselves, we fulfill our professional obligation to our clients, which is to provide them with the best possible skin care options!
