Jessica Turner This elite clinic in the inner Melbourne suburb of Kew has all the answers for clients seeking non-surgical cosmetic solutions. Kymberly Martin reports.
When it comes to non-surgical cosmetic solutions, the Victorian Dermal Group is a must visit. This inviting clinic has also earned a reputation for its phlebology practice that specialises in all types of abnormal leg veins.
The boutique clinic is located in the heart of Kew, seven km from the Melbourne city centre, surrounded by elegant Victorian art deco mansions and apartments, and a world away from the hustle and bustle. The Victorian Dermal Group was established in 2013 and is affiliated with Veins Solutions that was set up in 2002.
“When it was decided there was a need for dermal services within the practice and the opportunity was proposed to me I was thrilled to be part of the business”, says clinic director and dermal clinician, Derya Koch.
“We are a result -driven clinic, focusing on achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients,” Derya says. “The clinic has the answers to all skin concerns, delivering the full experience that includes enhancements, facial rejuvenation and leg veins with emphasis on pre-consultation, education and on-going care.”
All client issues are addressed by carrying out thorough assessments to devise the most appropriate treatment plan with a holistic approach that encompasses lifestyle and nutrition.
“We take extra time consulting with the client to ensure they understand exactly what the regimen involves. We use charts and diagrams to explain our laser treatments and also cover the risks and complications. Beautiful skin does not come from doing one thing — it is a multitude of factors that results in overall skin health and beauty.”
The clinic clearly takes pride in its dedication to ensuring clients receive the best possible care and consistently positive outcomes. Derya says the philosophy is prevention rather than cure, with a focus on anti-ageing treatments to optimise skin health and function.
“We believe in giving honest and realistic expectations to our clients and regard this with the utmost importance.”
The clinic has invested time and research into the latest technologies and products that offer clients the most advanced, reliable and safe treatment options. Professionalism and ethics are an integral part of the business.
Clientele are predominantly women aged 30 to 60 years who present with a variety of skin concerns, ranging from anti-ageing to dermatological conditions including pigmentation, rejuvenation, anti-ageing and veins. Those presenting with vascular and pigmentation disorders are the most prevalent.
Led by phlebologist, Dr Louis Loizou, he uses cutting-edge techniques and the latest technology to treat all types of abnormal leg veins. Dr Loizou, a fellow and vice-president of the Australasian College of Phlebology has over 20 years’ experience in the field.
Treatments are executed by a team of highly skilled staff with on-going training that includes attending education seminars and accredited medical cosmetic conferences, a priority for the tertiary-educated practitioners, nurses and dermal clinicians.
Derya is a strong advocate for greater recognition, regulation and registration of the industry and thinks members should be required to complete further education to provide protection to consumers of dermal therapy procedures.
“The Australian Society of Dermal Clinicians is working on registration for dermal therapists on a new national code of conduct for health care workers.” She says the guideline will apply to all health care professions currently unregistered. Derya continues: “the challenge for the industry is that under the current description of health care provider, beauty therapists who are also providing similar services to dermal clinicians will not be captured in this framework or upheld to the same minimum standards.
“There has been a growth in the cosmetic industry leading professions from beauty therapy to dermal clinicians resulting in an increasing need for appropriate qualifications.”
Derya holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Dermal Therapies) and a Diploma in Beauty Therapy in addition to a number of certificates for advanced paramedical short course and a Certificate IV in assessment and workplace training. Yet after more than a decade in the industry, Derya is really tuned into the many misconceptions floating around and one that really stands out for her is whether there are any differences between cosmeceutical and beauty products.
“Cosmeceuticals are a combination of pharmaceutical and cosmetic and contain high levels of quality, stable and active ingredients with cutting-edge delivery systems. Applied topically these have been clinically validated to treat and manage acne, prematurely aged skins, discolorations and imperfections.”
The cosmeceutical-based Aspect Dr and Mesoestetic are both used in the clinic to complement the treatments carried out. According to Derya the nature of cosmetic practice requires a great deal of confidence and trust.
“Recommendations from friends, family and practitioners contribute to the majority of new clients,” she says. In her experience existing clientele is capable of building business based solely on referrals, so providing the highest level of care to clients will further develop the business and database for years to come.
“Our location is ideal for a cosmetic clinic offering a central, yet discreet location; walk-ins are rare and the majority of clients are referred.”
The Victorian Dermal Group, victoriandermalgroup.com.au
