Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/97199
Knowing How You Do It Esthetics and the Medical Profession We work on healthy skin���we do not diagnose, and we are not dermatologists. We can work very well with the medical profession, and our scope of practice and skills complement theirs. This message is essential, as the esthetics profession is currently being targeted in many states for further regulation. This means a reduced scope of practice is a possibility, unless we can successfully educate the public about who we are. Much of the challenge in presenting a unified, professional image of esthetics comes from a misunderstanding of the esthetician���s scope of practice; this can happen at a high level, as well as among the general public, as the state boards that regulate esthetics often do not include a licensed esthetician among their board members. The esthetics profession is not just about applying products or following specific protocols. The ASCP Code of Ethics (which can be read in full, along with a printable version for your wall or reception desk, at www.ascpskincare.com/resources/code_of_ ethics.php) provides a blueprint for general best practices: Commitment to My Clients This section of the ASCP Code of Ethics deals with professional conduct: serving the client���s best interests with open communication, confidentiality, and respect. Describing What You Do Commitment to Do No Harm ���What do you really do to the skin?��� This is a common follow-up question to your elevator speech, and often comes with additional questions like ���Can you fix my skin?��� or ���Can you tell me what products are good?��� Or you may simply get a blank look from a person who has no idea what your profession is about. Your answer could take awhile, depending on your training and service menu, or you may be able to sum it up quickly. A couple of sample responses are: ������ Estheticians perform technical skin ��� analysis, then provide treatments for your individual skin type and concerns. That can include massage, advanced equipment use, chemical exfoliation, and application of professional-use-only products. We give the client recommendations for healthy skin, which can include both the treatments we provide and products to use at home. We also do additional services such as hair removal, body treatments, makeup application, and advanced facial treatments.��� ������ Skin care professionals are experts ��� in performing facial treatments, skin analysis, hair removal, massage, and body treatments. I specialize in ... [describe your specialty���for example, sunless tanning or lash extension].��� The ASCP Code of Ethics requires members to not work outside their scope of practice or provide treatments that they have not been fully trained on. Acquiring and maintaining solid education and training credentials are key to this standard. (It���s worth noting that training credentials are also required for insurance coverage in certain modalities.) Several advanced certifications can help you achieve that level of professionalism���CIDESCO, International Therapy Examination Council (ITEC), and/or National Coalition of Estheticians, Manufacturers/Distributors & Associations (NCEA). Commitment to My Profession As a skin care professional, it is essential to be involved with educating the public and maintaining professional standards in both your online and in-person conduct. This section of the ASCP Code of Ethics also covers advocating for your profession when your voice is needed. Commitment to Good Business Practices Finally, it is essential to make sure you are providing your services within the law and following the most ethical business standards in regard to everything from record keeping to self-promotion. The world of esthetics will no doubt continue to evolve throughout your career. Remember that this is not outside your control, or merely something that will happen to you. As a member of the profession, what you do every day will contribute to the public perception of esthetics and help drive whatever changes occur. Being able to identify and then communicate your focus will be an asset when representing yourself and your profession to the public. 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