Remote prescribing and becoming a key opinion leader

Sharon Bennett details her recent meeting with the Nursing and Midwifery Council and discusses the work that goes into being a key opinion leader

The profits and pitfalls of becoming an independent prescriber

Kev Hubbard explores the benefits that come with being an independent prescriber, as well as the challenges that may be met and how to overcome them

Treating chronic migraines with botulinum toxin

Migraine is a common condition that causes significant morbidity. It is often divided into acute and chronic, but there can be overlap between those who have variable frequency acute episodes and those who have chronic migraine with 15 headache-associated days per month. Botulinum toxin is a prophylactic treatment licensed for chronic migraine, where it has been shown to be an effective and safe treatment. It requires approximately 200 units per treatment session, usually at 3-month intervals. The protocols allowing NHS treatment strictly limit its use. Patients may seek this on a private basis, and suitably qualified aesthetic clinicians who are Care Quality Commission-registered could reasonably treat patients.

Using platelet-rich plasma for skin rejuvenation

The skin is the largest organ of the body, and it is affected by both intrinsic and extrinsic ageing factors. Platelet-rich plasma is an effective treatment for skin ageing, whether as a standalone treatment or in combination with other treatment modalities. The results depend on the skin quality of the patient, compliance and aftercare. Other factors to consider include the platelet-rich plasma kits and centrifuge used by the practitioner, as well as whether it is activated or not. In this article, Claudia McGloin will discuss skin ageing and the use of platelet-rich plasma for skin rejuvenation.

The relationship between economics and aesthetics

We live in financially challenging times, and the aesthetic practitioner's ability to sell products is directly related to how confident their patients feel they can afford a luxury purchase. In this article, Jason Ratcliffe details how economic factors impact businesses, personal income and patients

An introduction to chemical peels for the body

This article has been written for medical practitioners who wish to incorporate chemical peels for the body within their daily practice. It will provide the reader with a sound knowledge of what a chemical peel is and why they are useful, and their key ingredients will be identified. Their clinical indications and contraindications will be discussed, as well as what the patient can expect post-procedure. The author concludes that a chemical peel on the body is ideal for combatting moderate problematic acne, reducing hyperpigmentation and treating keratosis. Used appropriately, skin peels can effectively treat these conditions. During the consultation process, the clinician can offer a broader range of treatments, rather than focusing exclusively on the face. In the long term, this will increase profit margins and build good practitioner/patient relationships.

The emotional aspects of and psychological assessment for aesthetic, cosmetic and non-surgical treatments

Kimberley Cairns explores relevant psychology-related developments as a part of the Joint Council for Cosmetic Practitioners' core principles and functions

A qualitative study exploring the application of psychosocial screening to identify psychological conditions in non-surgical aesthetic patients

This study explores medical aesthetic practitioners' initial and ongoing application of psychosocial screening, to identify existing or emerging psychological disorders or conditions in non-surgical aesthetic patients. The increased demand for non-surgical aesthetic treatments correlates with the rise of patients who present with existing or evolving psychosocial problems or issues. Therefore, patients must be appropriately and adequately assessed, to identify those vulnerable individuals who are not suitable for treatment or whose treatments may exacerbate underlying psychological conditions. Identification can support signposting to trained professionals to ensure appropriate holistic care. Moreover, the study explores which validated screening tools have been adopted into practice, and routes for guiding patients should concerns arise.

Lease breaks: top tips (and traps for the unwary)

David Manda provides practical advice for those considering, for whatever reason, their lease break options