The scope of practice of Dermal Clinicians is defined by their education and training. To register as a Full Member and Dermal Clinician with the ASDC the minimum requirement is a Bachelor of Health Science (Dermal Therapy) or equivalent. The ASDC recognises that there are many practitioners, with varying levels of education, knowledge and skill particularly within the non-surgical cosmetic industry providing treatments. Many also utilise the title “Dermal Therapist”, “Skin Therapist” or “Dermal Clinician” which can be misleading or confusing for consumers and colleagues in the industry.

 

As such the ASDC is developing a scope of practice guideline for consumers and the industry based on level of education and experience in dermal science and therapies to educate employers and consumers.

 

The ASDC also provides the opportunity for practitioners within the industry without a Bachelor of Health Science (Dermal Therapy) Degree to join as Associate members as well as student memberships for those still studying programs related to Dermal Science and Therapies.

 

The ASDC is in the process of industry accreditation and regulation. Presently only ASDC full members are eligible to become Registered Dermal Clinicians. Associate Members with approved training and experience may become Certified Dermal Therapists with the ASDC. It is however the aim of the ASDC to encourage and support all members of the industry to upskill and continue professional education to ensure optimal outcomes and safety for clients.

 

WHAT CAN DERMAL CLINICIANS TREAT?

Dermal Clinicians specialise in the management of the skin in health and disease or damage to promote integrity and optimal function. A wholistic approach is undertaken whereby topical therapies as well as therapeutic interventions and clinical treatments may be prescribed. This also involves a thorough consultation incorporating medical conditions, medications and lifestyle factors as well as a detailed skin assessment. Dermal Clinicians are independent practitioners however they will often work interprofessionally and collaboratively with other specialists or health professionals to achieve optimal outcomes for clients.

 

Common conditions and diseases that are treated by Dermal Clincians include:

• Acne

• Rosacea

• Psoriasis

• Eczema and dermatitis

• Xerosis (excessively dry skin)

• Hyperkeratosis (thickened skin)

• Photodamage (sun damage)

• Pigmentary disorders and dyschromia (eg uneven pigment, brown spots)

• Intrinsic and extrinsic ageing (normal and premature ageing)

• Vascular disorders and conditions (e.g. birthmarks, telangiectasia/dilated capillaries, superficial spider veins on the face and body).

• Assisting with optimal wound repair for acute and chronic wounds.

• Scar management and minimisation.

• Excessive or unwanted pilosity (hair growth)

• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)

• Oedema management

• Skin management associated with diabetes, arterial or venous insufficiency and disease.

• Lymphoedema

• Localised adiposity (localised fat deposits)

• Micro-pigmentation

• Tattoo removal

 

A Dermal Clinician with a 4 year Bachelor of Health Science (Dermal Therapies) degree is within their scope of practice to safely and effectively perform the following treatments and operate the following modalities:

 

• Laser and light based therapies (non-ablative and ablative)

  • Class 3B Lasers (Low level Laser)

  • LED (Light Emitting Diode)

  • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)

  • Class 4 Lasers including modalities such as tattoo removal and Fractionated laser

• Electrotherapies

  • Electroepilation (electrolysis, permanent hair removal)

  • Electroporation, sonophoresis/iontophoresis (transdermal delivery of topical agents)

  • Therapeutic ultrasound and direct current for wound repair

  • Diathermy and electrocautery/electrodessication (for the treatment of benign skin lesions and dilated blood vessels)

  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage

  • Microdermabrasion

  • Chemical Peels: Superficial light through to medium depth

  • Collagen Induction Therapy (skin needling)

  • Wound and scar management.