DEAR READERS
New year, new focus on wellness – and with that, January marks our dedicated Wellness Issue.
I spoke with Dr Nima Mahmoodi, arguably one of the most wellness-focused aesthetic practitioners in the industry, about how psychedelics, spirituality, and nervous system science are beginning to reshape longevity medicine. Through a truly holistic lens, he challenges conventional practice by viewing appearance as a reflection of deeper psychological, neurological, and spiritual health.
Contributing reporter Ellen Cummings examines one of the latest wellness trends making its way into aesthetic clinics: IV drips. As patient demand grows alongside the wider shift towards wellness, she unpacks the importance of understanding the risks, evidence base, claims, and patient expectations. On the flip side, I explore the rise of in-clinic testing, a development that is helping to support more informed, wellness-led interventions within aesthetic practice.
Our Women in Aesthetic Medicine Board shares their thoughts on the concept of the sandwich generation – that stage of life where middle-aged adults find themselves simultaneously supporting ageing parents and growing children – a reality many aesthetic professionals are navigating alongside their careers.
In her column, Scott Shares, Julie Scott reflects on how her internal voices – joy, sadness, anger, fear, and disgust – help her navigate the challenging, and sometimes lonely, world of aesthetics. Meanwhile, Amy Bird reflects on how 2025 became a year of slowing down and setting boundaries and looks ahead to 2026. We hope you enjoy the January issue and feel inspired by what lies ahead for the industry this year.
Editor, Kezia Parkins