We Can Turn Clock Back!

Sep 28 2008

Three Experts Reveal Secrets Of The Beauty Business

COSMETICS COACH

Dr KATE GOLDIE

KATE is on a mission to raise standards in the beauty industry.

The 38-year-old runs training courses in cosmetic procedures for medical professionals.

The job: I am co-director of Medics Direct. We run courses in treatments such as Botox, skin peels, dermal fillers, skin rejuvenation, mesotherapy and microsclerotherapy, as well as anti-ageing consultations for medical professionals. The two-day course costs £1585.

How I did it: I worked in anaesthetics, surgery and accident and emergency at Oban General Hospital.

I then spent two years in Northern Constabulary dealing with anything from murders and rapes to mental health issues and prisoner welfare.

I started doing Botox and fillers in my spare time but had no idea it would fit in with what I was doing. I've always enjoyed teaching so I decided to do something with on-going training.

I started the courses in Glasgow and took on six full-time support staff. We trained more than 170 staff in our first year and are now targeting doctors and dentists. People come to us because they want to solve a problem.

Most people who see me don't think I have anything done but I have had Botox and Restylane fillers.

There is lots of good evidence that says it is proven to make people look younger for longer.

You have to look for subtle signs in people's faces so that if you change them you will make them look fresher. Less is more. We don't want people wandering around with the frightened rabbit look like they do in the States.

Perks: Running a good business that looks after people.

Five-year plan: Botox is mainstream and we have training schools from Exeter to Inverness.

Tips: The most important thing is to be a people person.

BEAUTICIAN

HELEN SHAW

HELEN has been an NHS nurse for 36 years but having her own treatments done, including Botox, led her to start her own cosmetic beauty business.

The 60-year-old, of Clydebank, says there is no need for men and women to grow old.

The job: I am a cosmetic practitioner with You Are Beautiful based in Duntocher, Dunbartonshire.

How I did it: I was an assistant community district nurse. Last year I decided to get some cosmetic work done. I discovered Medics Direct when I was looking to rejuvenate myself and my career. The miraculous results I had made me realise how safe, easy and effective the procedures are. I now combine cosmetic work with 12 hours a week at the health centre.

The business is well regulated but the fact I have a medical background and have had it done myself means I can allay people's fears. I charge £290 to Botox three full areas of the face.

Perks: Women don't like to see lines and if you can help them in a safe way, it's great.

Five-year plan: To open my own shop.

Tips: Be keen about beauty and look after yourself.

MAKE-UP ARTIST

SADIE JEAN SLOSS

SADIE was a freelance make-up artist for eight years before opening her Edinburgh salon.

The 26-year-old landed dream jobs doing make-up for glossy magazines, pop videos and Bollywood movies. The job: I own DollyLeo Apothecary in Stockbridge, Edinburgh. We stock a range of beauty brands and offer eyelash extensions, Botox, hot shaves for men, facial corrective treatments plus professional make-up lessons.

How I did it: I attended the Jemma Kidd make-up school and did photoshoots for Vogue, Dior and Marks & Spencer. Then I launched my own business called Shae Shiva specialising in Bollywood films, fashion shows and brides looking for make-up artists.

I got to do make-up for Marie Claire, Vogue and Jasper Conrad fashion shows.

Dolly Leo opened two months ago when I moved back to Scotland. Beauty is about enhancing yourself rather than trowelling on loads of make-up. When you have the confidence that comes with looking good, everything else fits into place.

Each one of our treatments is carried out by a specialist from that industry. We have Botox done by a doctor of reconstructive surgery.

Our most popular product is our Extreme Eye Lashes which cost £160 and have to be topped up every three weeks at £35 a time.

Perks: Meeting new people and making them feel good about themselves.

Five-year plan: I would like to open a salon in Glasgow and I am looking for someone with experience.

Tips: I look for honesty in people.