OUT & ABOUT

Grand Hotel Da Vinci

Cesenatico, Italy

APG TECH / DIBI MILANO DISCOVERY TRIP

When you think of Italy, a few things spring to mind; delicious food, tasteful couture, tightknit families and many, many glasses of wine.

While the trip, from October 13-16, was a corporate expedition, Charliegh Nolan, Thomas Klein, Marco Bertussi and the wider team at Dibi Milano encapsulated these qualities, with family being an underlying theme throughout.

For three days, industry professionals from the UK and Ireland were brought to Italy to learn, network with, and experience the latest innovations from Dibi Milano.

As we landed on Italian soil, it was out with the stress and in with the European ways of business, as the team had considerately scheduled for us to spend the day bonding in Bologna, soaking in the ambience, the Aperols, and the antipasti before the two days of business at our next destination, The Grand Hotel da Vinci in Cesenatico.

Through the many comprehensive presentations on the second day, it was clear that passion was a driving force with each speaker as they discussed the technology. The impressive line-up of panellists peeled back the layers of APG Tech and its new devices, as we got to break down aspects ranging from design choice to patient experiences.

Following this was a highly anticipated dinner and a show. The evening, unbeknown to us all, was going to be a core memory of true bonding in the most amusing way possible. A three-course meal, strategically separated by a pub quiz and karaoke. From an outsider’s perspective, it would have been hard to believe that the majority of us had only met the day before, as we all got up from our seats, belting into the mics, collectively performing the YMCA.

The next day was spent training, testing and trying the devices for ourselves. I had a painless, quick and comfortable hair removal treatment with diode lasers, complemented by products from Dibi Milano’s range, which includes everything from gels to deodorants.

To emphasise the intentions of the trip, host Bertussi noted that a congress like this was important to create a sense of “community, and being one team together”.

Beauty therapist Alina Gromadzka, from Ministry of Beauty, expressed that she “has never experienced such a huge feeling of belonging”, not to mention a complete adoration for the Italian way of life: “It’s business and pleasure, I love it!”.

Rona Gilmore from Health and Beauty Clinic mentioned how the lack of downtime in her job makes it nearly impossible to meet other people: “It’s a lonely career path, making this a wonderful opportunity.”

“It can be overwhelming when you’re getting told about a new product,” says Amy Lynch from Define by Marie Dolan. “Having it broken up and slowed down makes it easier to create a bond with the brand and the devices.”

They say that if you really want to get to know someone, you have to travel with them.

From sightseeing in San Marino to wine tasting, and dinner at the Darsena del Sale, we witnessed an impressive amount of Italy, including motorway services. Like any good story, the plot must thicken, and ours did when our popped bus tyre sent us to the nearby gas station, where we gathered for a rather unconventional round of aperitifs. Not only did this create our second core memory of the trip, but it highlighted the efficiency with which Nolan, Klein, Bertussi and the team sorted a plan for us all. It was dealt with with admiral positivity, keeping the crowds at ease.

To top it all off, we were each gifted a fine Italian leather purse from Baldinini, a thoughtful and authentic keepsake from the trip.

DECODING THE FUTURE OF BEAUTY

Columbia Hotel, London

An exclusive panel event was hosted by Allergan Aesthetics, where it unveiled its latest report findings detailing the changing attitudes towards beauty and aesthetics in the UK and Ireland. Chief executive of Zebedee Laura Winson, identity designer and beauty futurist Dr Alex Box, and Allergan Aesthetics faculty member Dr Jonquille Chantrey opened up on a panel about the pressures they felt in order to look a certain way due to influences such as advertising, AI and comments from those around them.

SOPRANO SUMMIT

Alma Studios, London

On September 16, editor Anna Dobbie hosted a summit on all things Soprano, featuring the official unveiling of the new Soprano Titanium Special Edition. Clinical panel discussions saw clinic owners, including Dr Nisha Menon and Nilam Holmes, share their customer success stories and delve deep into the strategies that fueled their businesses’ growth with Soprano. Intimate breakout sessions allowed attendees to uncover essential techniques, protocols, and insider tips to elevate their summer sales.

AESTHETIC MEDICAL PARTNERSHIP LAUNCH

Holmes Hotel, London

In the afternoon of October 15, an exclusive speed-briefing event showcased the latest non-surgical aesthetic devices and treatments. Attendees discovered how PDENS are shaping the future of exosome therapy, how fractional plasma and radiofrequency diatermocontraction work in combination and the part that gel plays in optimising PRP treatments. In the evening, medics networked over champagne and canapés, while discovering revolutionary new products and technologies.

ATELIER CLINIC GRAND OPENING

Egham, Surrey

On September 25, Dr Aggie Zatonska celebrated the expansion of Atelier Clinic with an opening event to reveal new facilities, including treatment rooms and expanded wellbeing offerings. Guests were treated to champagne, caviar canapés, treatment trials and luxury goody bags.

BAAPS CONFERENCE PRESS BRIEFING

Savoy Place, London

A panel of leading surgeons from around the world discussed the latest scientific data on breast implant illness, new surgical innovations in procedures like labiaplasty and how aesthetic surgery can enhance one’s health and lifestyle. The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) also hosted a networking event that provided a fantastic opportunity to pick at the brains of professionals about the direction in which the industry is growing.

BAMAN AUTUMN AESTHETIC CONFERENCE

The Eastside Rooms, Birmingham

The newly renamed British Association of Medical Aesthetic Nurses (BAMAN, previously British Association of Cosmetic Nurses or BACN) hosted the largest event for medical aesthetic nurses in the UK on September 26-27. The conference agenda, which included in-depth sessions covering everything from non-surgical approaches to optimising the cleft lip to cuttingedge biohacking strategies in menopause and ageing, was designed to empower attendees with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive.

BCAM CONFERENCE

Church House, Westminster

On September 20, the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM) hosted a delicious pre-conference dinner at the Marylebone Hotel. The following day was a TED-x style programme of amazing scientific and educational speakers, discussing a range of new and different topics. The complications panel was a new addition, which saw attendees submit anonymised cases for discussion by a panel of top complications experts.

BEAUTY TRIANGLE DELEO X DELEO EVENT

Lanesborough Hotel, London

The Beauty Triangle and Deleo joined forces on September 17 to host an exclusive event showcasing the Cellution device. This innovative, non-invasive treatment represents an advance in combating cellulite, skin laxity, and body contouring. The event brought together leading professionals in the aesthetics industry, including doctors and nurses, to witness firsthand the capabilities of the device.

CCR

ExCeL, London

The Clinical Cosmetic Regenerative (CCR) Congress, in association with Aesthetics Journal, returned to Excel on October 10-11, providing education and networking opportunities for the aesthetics sector.

TRI-WAVE MD LAUNCH

Icetank, London

Dermaluxe unveiled its latest Tri-Wave MD device on October 9. Guests gathered under warm red and blue LED lights to learn about the benefits of the new device as well as try out a treatment. After a brief cleanse and 20 minutes under a bespoke recommendation of LED light combinations, attendees had the opportunity to get their make-up done before returning to the office.

CUTERA UNIVERSITY CLINICAL FORUM

Sopwell House, Hertfordshire

On September 28, practitioners and professionals from all over attended Cutera University Clinical Forum (CUCF). Attendees enjoyed a unique blend of expert-led sessions, hands-on demonstrations, and discussions, all dedicated to helping and inspiring those who practice in the aesthetic medicine field.

SKINCEUTICALS P-TIOX MASTERCLASS

Hart Clinic, London

Cover star Eleanor Hartley hosted an intimate session for press and influencers on October 16 at her newly redeveloped clinic in Mayfair. The masterclass demonstrated Hartley’s signature method of applying Skinceutical’s products, combined with microneedling, to achieve glass skin.

JALUPRO REGENERATIVE MEDICINE CONFERENCE

The Curzon Bloomsbury, London

On September 20, Jalupro invited an audience of medical practitioners to find out how Jalupro is redefining bio-revitalisation. The agenda included sessions on celebrity treatment protocols, as well as successful case studies using the Jalupro range.

AESTHETICS BUSINESS CONFERENCE

Royal College of Physicians, London

On October 8, Hamilton Fraser presented a dedicated business conference for aesthetic entrepreneurs seeking to establish an aesthetics business or take their existing venture to the next level. The conference, in association with Success in Aesthetic Business (SIAB), provided an invaluable opportunity for practitioners and clinic managers to learn and network with some of the most influential names in the aesthetics business. This year, the event partnered with Menopause in Aesthetics (MIA) and featured a panel discussion on safeguarding in aesthetics with Vicky Eldridge, Dan Huxley, Dr Shirin Lakhani and Eddie Hooker..

ARICULAR ACUPUNCTURE PRESS DAY

Wyndham Place Clinic, London

Editor Anna Dobbie sampled a groundbreaking new weight management treatment by ‘hormone guru’, Jennifer Young, which is billed as the holistic answer to semaglutides. An initial consultation process identifies hormone imbalances and addresses them using auricular acupuncture points. During the treatment, small needles were inserted into her ears with the aim of bringing balance to the hormones associated with weight gain and loss. As Dobbie enjoyed her needle-induced relaxation, a specialist therapist massaged her lower legs and feet. This purposeful touch concentrated on the stomach and spleen meridians as well as other areas associated with improving digestion.

INNOVATIONS IN DELIVERY SYSTEMS AND INJECTABLES

The Portland Greenhouse, London

The Portland Greenhouse provided the stunning backdrop to a panel discussion on September 12. Dr Elisabeth Dancey, Dr Efrat Kochba, and Debbie Battat gave an excellent presentation with videos, prototypes and a fantastic three-course meal to complete the evening.

LYMA PANEL EVENTS

Lyma HQ, London

In October, Lyma hosted several events at its headquarters at Edison House. An inspiring panel discussion in partnership with WealthiHer, exploring how our hormonal histories can help us better predict and navigate our menopause journey, was hosted on October 9.

On October 15, Hollywood’s superstar facialist, Joanna Czech and Lyma founder Lucy Goff discussed beauty secrets A-listers swear by and tips and tricks of the trade at a breakfast briefing.

REPLENS MINDFUL MENOPAUSE MOMENT

7 Breaths Yoga Studio, London

Women of all ages gathered to join Allergan’s restful class of movement, meditation and sound therapy, to learn about holistic approaches to managing menopause symptoms and the brand’s vaginal moisturiser. An expert-led panel with Dr Shahzadi Harper and 7 Breaths instructor Sophia spotlighted therapies, treatments and products for an informed and supported menopause experience.

PAUSE LIVE

Grand Connaught Rooms, London

The UK’s largest menopause show is dedicated to helping women find solutions for their symptoms through education, medical insight, and open dialogue. Highlights of this year’s consumer event included panels on weight gain, dry eye and brain fog, and a chat with the ‘first lady of menopause’, Lisa Snowdon.

PLADUO LAUNCH

Dr Preema Clinic, London

Editor Anna Dobbie experienced a treatment with the new plasma device on October 16. PlaDuo uses two gases — nitrogen for anti-ageing and argon for acne and wound healing — to deliver results for a wide range of skin concerns with minimal discomfort.

PROFHILO STRUCTURA EUROPEAN PREVIEW

Hotel NH Collection Touring, Milan

On October 1, editor Anna Dobbie attended the press conference preview for Italy, France, the UK, Spain and Poland of IBSA Derma’s new injectable solution based on hyaluronic acid, Profhilo Structura. The event was attended by some of the most important specialists in aesthetic medicine, including Dr Editta Buttura da Prato, Dr Arnaud Lambert, Dr Beatriz Molina Sanchez, Dr Natalia Ribé, and Dr Monika Nunberg Sawicka, who discussed the impact of this innovation in clinical practice on a panel.

As the years go by, the face undergoes a gradual and continuous ageing process affecting not only the skin, but also all the underlying tissues, resulting in loss of tone, elasticity, texture and volume. We used to think that this process only concerned the superficial layer, but even the areas we don’t see age.

The new treatment from the Profhilo line acts to restore adipose tissue, a fundamental layer for supporting the dermis that can atrophy and sag over time. Thanks to the new formulation, it is now possible to even treat what isn’t seen and restore facial structure. Due to its high concentration of ultrapure hyaluronic acid, Structura has unique physicochemical properties, and its regenerative effect helps restore firmness to the face by working on the restructuring of adipose tissue. It is therefore particularly suitable for women for whom the ageing process is already underway.

“This innovative solution based on stable hybrid cooperative complexes represents an important step forward in daily clinical practice, as patients will have the first treatment that acts in a targeted way on the adipose tissue of the face,” stated Dr Buttura da Prato, who is a specialist in maxillofacial surgery from Verona, Italy. “Profhilo Structura improves the environment in which the cells involved in the formation of fat and ligaments live, restoring vitality and texture to the adipose tissue and strengthening the connective tissue. The result is a visible improvement in facial structure and an effective counteraction to the signs of ageing”.

The event also saw the launch of a new communication platform, Beauty Beyond Standards by IBSA Derma, which aims to celebrate an ideal of authentic beauty, moving away from all traditional stereotypes and enhancing every detail that distinguishes the uniqueness of the person. IBSA has created a free app, Aging Discovery AR, on which, through augmented reality, users can explore the impact of the ageing process on the different tissues, promoting a better communication between doctor and patient.

USA REVISION SKINCARE PRESS BREAKFAST

Claridge’s, London

Aesthetic Source and Revision Skincare USA invited press for a breakfast briefing on September 17 to find out about the science behind the brand’s hero products, which are now available directly to consumers.

THE POWER OF PINK LUNCH

Bacchanalia, London

On September 19, editor Anna Dobbie joined members of the Professional Beauty editorial team to uncover the ‘Power Of Pink’ with Revitalash president and global chief marketing officer Lori Jacobus. While savouring a delightful lunch and indulging in a variety of pink-themed beverages, attendees delved into the worldwide significance of the ‘Eternally Pink Pledge’.

BACK TO THE FUTURE

The Clinic, London

Dr Maryam Zamani explained to members of the press how boosted broadbandlight (BBL) technology works with body rejuvenation on September 18. She discussed the new micro zones in-clinic dedicated to restoring facial harmony and how these can be applied to reverse and repair flawed aesthetic outcomes.

DERMAFOCUS DINNER

SexyFish, London

Seated at a long table surrounded by fish tanks, sushi, and margaritas, SexyFish provided the perfect backdrop to dive deep into the world of polynucleotides. Dr Yusra Al-Mukhtar, a key opinion leader for Dermafocus, reeled us in, hook, line, and sinker with her presentation on the science and ethical use of polynucleotides to help rejuvenate and regenerate skin. The event was the catch of the day for exploring the power of fish sperm extract.

THE SKIN DIARY SYMPOSIUM

The British Association of Dermatology, London

On September 12, The Skin Diary offered a comprehensive update on skin ageing and photo-ageing. Attendees were treated to talks from the president of the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) Dr Tamara Griffiths, Professor Mark Birch Machin, Professor Majella Lane and Professor Andrew McBain.

DR SOPHIE SHOTTER X AURA

Covent Garden Hotel, London

Editor Anna Dobbie had a 1-1 consultation with Dr Sophie Shotter on September 25 using new photography technology, the Hexagon Aura 3D Imaging System. The system is the industry’s first premium aesthetic imaging solution that captures a photorealistic 3D digital twin of a patient’s face and neck with a single capture. Based on the outcome of the scan, she will be visiting Dr Shotter for a treatment – keep your eyes out for the writeup in a future issue of the magazine.

VIVACY DAY

Bulgari Hotel, London

With the theme ‘Stylage: A solution for skin and structure’, the day, moderated by Dr Thuha Jabbar, started with a focus on skin regeneration, sharing the latest study findings on collagen and elastin stimulation from HydroMax, a live demo from Dr Zunaid Alli and an innovative ‘double boost’ protocol, delivered by Dr Ahmed El Muntasar. The afternoon focused on structure, starting with the nose, including a live demo from Dr Jabbar. The day also covered taking a full-face approach, structural deficiencies from ageing and genetics, how best to treat the peri-orbital area with a live demonstration from Dr Prash Patel and how to define the lower third of the face.

DERMAPENWORLD ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Carlton Hotel, Cannes

This year’s DermaPenWorld meeting in Cannes saw attendees from over 80 countries gather to celebrate their achievements and discuss the latest advancements in the industry. Representing the UK, Kelly Tobin Nick Kernahan and Andrew Hansford were there to answer questions from around the globe and share best practice advice. The event, held in September, featured presentations from worldren-owned experts and leaders in the field, including Dr Rachna Murphy and Dr Jonathan Roos from London.

Highlights of the event included the global launch of the new Exo-Grow range, a groundbreaking technology for hair regeneration. Dr Bilal Malik was awarded Brand Ambassador of the Year for the UK, while distributors and key opinion leaders from around the world were recognised for their contributions to the company at the Dermapenworld Awards.

The event concluded with a gala dinner on the private beach of the hotel, where attendees had the opportunity to network and celebrate their shared successes. Overall, the AGM and expert meeting showed the importance of collaboration and innovation in the aesthetics industry.