Q&A with Lauren Beck, Clinic Manager at Medi-Cosmetic

Lauren has worked in the cosmetic industry for the past 10 years and has experienced first hand the business benefits and pitfalls of introducing aesthetic treatments to a highly successful Clinic in Belfast. 

She has had the benefit of working with leading cosmetic surgeons, aesthetic doctors and nurses who are experts in their field. Lauren graduated with a degree in English and continued to work in the aesthetic industry, recently completing a post graduate diploma in business development & innovation which has allowed her to assess the Clinic. She is now managing and sourcing opportunities for expansion. In 2013, Medi-Cosmetic, was a finalist for a Professional Beauty Award for Medi-Spa of the Year.

Lauren will be speaking at Professional Beauty Ireland new Advanced Treatments Live Stage on Sunday 5 October from 14:45 to 15:15. Book you seat here!

What will you be covering as part of the Advanced Treatment Live stage?
I hope to discuss the business benefits of introducing aesthetic treatment to a salonand also discuss the pitfalls which are just as important to avoid. I will speak about the revenue benefits of introducing aesthetic treatments including opportunities for expanding your business and also to increase the awareness of the lack of regulation within the industry.

Why do you think events such as this are important for the industry?
I think events such as Professional Beauty are important for the industry as it allows therapist and salon owners to network with companies and find out what the latest trends are in the industry. I also believe the seminar programme is beneficial to keep abreast of the latest industry trends and topics especially anything that can help us to boost our own business'.

Which are the biggest challenges currently facing the Aesthetic Medicine industry?
I believe the lack of regulation is the biggest challenge facing the Aesthetic Medicine Industry as was recently highlighted in government by the Keogh Report. It is worrying that there is such a lack of regulation in such a varied and medical industry.

What can the Aesthetic Medicine Industry do remain profitable in the recession?
I think the regulation of clinics who offer aesthetic treatments will encourage profitability as it will ensure that prices remain at an affordable level and remove the dangers of those offering unproven treatments and unregulated products.

In which way the Aesthetic Medicine industry can make a difference to people’s lives?
I believe that Aesthetic Treatments can provide a huge difference to a person's confidence in a small way, whether it is a non-surgical body treatment for inch loss and skin tightening or injectable treatments such as Botox or Dermal Fillers, these treatments are more readily available and when performed by a qualified professional can provide excellent results.

Which industry trends do you think will be big in 2014?
I think that skincare will remain to be the most important aspect of the industry. Working in a Skin Specialist Clinic, I see first hand the benefits of cosmeceutical skincare and the difference it can make to our clients.