Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/86330
I know we have all heard this before, but here is one important point: the benefits of professional skin care do not come from what you use on the skin. They do not come from a product, the latest wonderful machine, or a doctor's syringe. This is why, no matter how the world of skin care has changed in the past or how it will change in the future, our profession will not be disappearing. With that in mind, let's look at what is happening throughout the beauty industry. This year has been particularly difficult on the legislative front. Cosmetology, as a whole, is being attacked by multiple parties wanting to deregulate the industry. You may think, "Cosmetology is just about hairstylists—it will not affect me." This is not the case. If cosmetology licensing goes away, whether in one state or across the nation, it will have a deep impact on our profession and the public's perception of what we do. Our profession is also in danger of facing a shrinking scope of practice. For example, Tennessee is considering legislation that would restrict chemical peels and IPL treatments to medical providers only. The California Green Chemistry Initiative, a law aimed at encouraging environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, would also have the side effect of holding estheticians legally responsible if they sell any non- compliant products. We all know there are those who feel esthetics is "not a real job," believe it does not require skills and education, or think of it as a way of playing at beauty part time. Some of the people and organizations who hold this opinion are well funded and politically active. They are not going to stop anytime soon. What Can You Do? It can feel frustrating to consider these wider concerns for the skin care profession, especially if you are already dealing with stress in your business or in your personal life. Know that you are not alone. There is power in numbers, and Associated Skin Care Professionals (ASCP) is more than 12,000 strong. Each esthetician can help improve the public perception of what we do, because the way the public perceives you will reflect on the industry as a whole. Moving into 2013, make an action plan to improve both your own business and, by extension, the whole skin care profession. STEP 1: CODE OF ETHICS If you have not read the ASCP Code of Ethics in a while, start there: it's online at www.ascpskincare.com/resources/code_ of_ethics.php and can be downloaded and printed out to display in your reception area or treatment room. STEP 2: LIFELONG LEARNING Pick one subject (e.g., a modality, skin science, or business operations) that you need further training on. Attend a class, read a book, watch an ASCP educational webinar, or sign up for online training. STEP 3: KEEPING IT LEGAL Make sure all of your licenses are current and you are meeting all the requirements for operating a business in your community. This includes understanding your scope of practice. STEP 4: PUBLIC OUTREACH Present your version of skin health to the public. Use social media, speak to schools about skin health, send PR announcements to your local paper, have an education night at a community center—the opportunities are endless. STEP 5: CLIENT OUTREACH Send a handwritten note to your clients, expressing how grateful you are to have them visit you. You can do this all at once, perhaps as a holiday or seasonal mailing, or spread it throughout the year by sending a note on a client's birthday or the anniversary of their first visit to you. Most clients only receive sales pitches from a business, or an impersonal form letter at best, and are rarely thanked directly. You can be the exception. This is just the beginning. Know that in the years to come, ASCP is here to support you. Your association is much more than liability insurance; it is your professional family. What can we do for you? Let us know. Susanne Schmaling, director of education for Associated Skin Care Professionals, is a licensed esthetician, experienced educator, former spa owner, and founder of the Pacific Institute of Esthetics. Her career includes all aspects of esthetics, makeup, and nail technology, as well as spa design and consulting. Contact her at sschmaling@ascpskincare.com. Get connected to your peers @ www.skincareprofessionals.com 35